A sunny day exploring Waihi Beach with two teenage boys brings hidden coves, rock pools, eagle rays, a favourite café, wildlife, go-karts and a rainy swim — proving the best family adventures don't always need a big budget.

Our first full day in Rotorua with two teenage boys takes us from free geothermal adventures at Kuirau Park to bubbling mud pools, thermal foot baths and the incredible Craters of the Moon.

Our eight-day Melbourne to Brisbane road trip comes to an end as we leave the Gold Coast, spot koalas near Brisbane, enjoy a final Australian sunset and fly across the Tasman to begin our Aotearoa New Zealand adventure.

Our final full day in Australia was spent at Sea World Gold Coast, exploring Shark Bay, Ray Reef, polar bears, sea lions and penguins, with the Pacific Airshow providing an unexpected backdrop to our adventure.

Our Australian east coast road trip continues from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast, with one final morning of whale watching, a close encounter with a swamp wallaby, Coolangatta Beach and our final family base at Nobby's Beach.

Our Byron Bay adventure with two teenage boys brings an unforgettable morning of humpback whales and dolphins, followed by a beach day, a surprise shark alarm and precious time watching the boys simply enjoy being together.

Our Australian east coast road trip continues from North Haven to Byron Bay, with a morning swim, waterfront coffee, a rainforest boardwalk at Sea Acres, a stunning holiday park and an unforgettable first glimpse of humpback whales from Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Our Sydney adventure with two teenage boys included a free day exploring the Australian Museum, Hyde Park, the Botanical Gardens, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, followed by Bondi Beach and an unexpected Port Stephens accommodation find.

Our Melbourne to Sydney road trip with two teenage boys didn't quite start as planned. From St Kilda and a sleep-deprived wobble to a 4.30am departure, torrential rain, Australian wildlife and nine hours behind the wheel, this is where our Australian adventure really began.

The decision has been made. After comparing destinations, costs and what the boys actually wanted from our summer adventure, Australia and New Zealand came out on top. With adventure firmly on the agenda and planning starting rather late, the countdown is on…

Storms in New Zealand changed our travel plans, leading to an unexpected road trip adventure along Australia’s stunning East Coast.