Gabriele Steindl: Professional Kitesurfer & Freelance Writer - Action, Lifestyle & Travels

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New Zealand Story Part 1: South Island

YES, I am truly in love, in love with New Zealand, its breathtaking nature and incredibly special people.  As kitesurf-professional from a landlocked country, I have been kind-a-kite-nomad for the past 8 years, travelling all year, living out of my North quiverbag. In those years I have been privileged to get to know so many places and cultures all across our lovely Mother Earth, however, nothing can live up to New Zealand and the experiences I’ve had here!

This country simply combines the best things of so many other places:  wild, lush green jungle like in Brazil, white sandy beaches like some tropical island in the Indian Ocean, more beautiful mountains than in Austria  (and I’ve always thought, Austria had THE most beautiful mountains !?), World-class waves, yes, the beauty of nature overwhelmed me completely and I remember uncountable times when I was gazing like a little child with open mouth at the sites Mother Nature has to offer in this true last paradise!

Above all, what contributed at least as much to my once-in-a-lifetime experience here were all the lovely people that I met. WOW, I wish every Nation had just a little of the kindness, hospitality and laid-back, joyful, open-minded attitude of the kiwis, the World surely would be a better place!  This summary of highlights of my insanely cool adventure in NZ is a tribute and ‘HUGE THANX’ to all the amazing people that I had the pleasure of meeting and friendliness that I have encountered here.

Kitesurf UK magazine has published my trip to New Zealand in 2 Parts, here’s Part 1: South Island, enjoy  –  u can download the whole article or read online.    Also, please feel free to email me with any questions or feedback you might have!