New Zealand is known for their wines, and we fully intend to meet their grapes!

We love exploring culture through food - and always enjoy taking a cooking class when we're traveling!

Lake Takapō (Tekapo) is one of the best places on Earth to stargaze - and the Summit Experience is the most extraordinary way to do it. This is your chance to explore the night sky from New Zealand’s only professional research observatory, located on the summit of Mount John, in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. In fact, it’s the southernmost facility of its kind in the world.

Double Whammy: Joseph has a milestone birthday while on our trip, and we're going to celebrate with a scenic flight from Auckland to the nearby island, Waiheke. We'll enjoy a fabulous 3-course meal & wine tasting at one of Waiheke’s premium vineyards overlooking the vineyards and views of Auckland.

We'll take a scenic cruise across Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm, one of Queenstown’s most picturesque destinations. Upon arrival, the team will welcome us and guide us through the lush gardens, sharing insights about the locally grown produce and native plants. We'll also have the opportunity to plant a native tree, contributing to the area’s ongoing conservation efforts, before relaxing with a high-country tea selection featuring homegrown and locally sourced treats.

The United Way of Central Iowa aims to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. They focus on addressing local needs and challenges through a comprehensive approach that includes listening to community members and responding effectively. Their vision is a world where every person in every community is thriving, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As Chief Community Impact Officer, Joseph is a part of this work.

The Nature Conservancy is the world's largest and oldest environmental organization. The mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Andrea might be a bit biased, she's an Associate Director of Development, but she believes that TNC a real leader in creating a world where nature and people can thrive. Nature is not a destination; it is a part of each of us.