#starstoryJohn: Like father, like son

Sharing a love for the open road with my boys

I’ve always loved the open road. I’m into bikes, motorbikes in a pretty big way. Triumphs in particular. Luckily for me, my wife is too. She’s my best friend and partner in crime. I love her adventurous spirit. There’s nothing better than exploring together - letting the road just unfold in front of us. We ride the back roads, the main roads and everything in between in New Zealand. It’s one of life's great pleasures as far as I’m concerned. We get out as often as we can, heading to the regions all over New Zealand, escaping the chaos of the big cities. There are lots of roads to be explored in both the North Island and South Island.

We have two beautiful boys. They’re the absolute center of our world. Man, I’m just incredibly proud of my boys. They’re growing quickly. Spending time with them, it doesn’t matter what we’re doing, it’s just the best. They like to make things just like me. We make things together. Models, swords, games - that kind of thing. Backyard builds we call them. We built a pedal powered kayak – it was a prototype. But it worked. That was awesome. I enjoy seeing the boys entertaining each other doing simple things, but challenging themselves also.

Sure there’s the end result - that’s great, but the time together, “doing the thing” - that’s just as important I think. We’re creating memories. I’m pretty conscious of that. I’ve got memories of doing things like that with my own Dad. I hold on to those now. My Dad was up for an adventure too and loved getting outside. We didn’t spend time on screens as much as kids do these days. My brother and I used to lie outside on trips, look up at the stars and joke that we were watching Sky. I remember that. It’s funny what stays with you.

Our first road trip in an RV, my wife hadn’t been sure what she was getting into - but she loved the experience. We are keen to get back out there again. It was great just being together like that, family time. We were able to stop and check out some awesome spots along the way. We headed to the Central Plateau - I reckon that area is just as good in summer as it is in winter, there is great scenery, great walking, loads of exploring to do.

I’m a designer by trade. The road is a feast for the eyes, so much to see along the way. Adventure and curiosity run through my veins. I’m forever spotting things, side roads, cool old sheds, great views. It’s great to find places you want to return to.

My favourite place to be is with my family, exploring and enjoying each other’s company, away from daily pressures and day to day routine. Seeing new things and having new experiences - creating those vivid memories that last long after we come home.

I see a connection between the open road and mental wellbeing for sure. I think just being out there on the road provides space and time to think, a sense of freedom that allows your thoughts to process differently. That space has never been more important. With a close friend I host the Auckland chapter of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. This is a cause that unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved there.

For road trips with the family, I’m particularly fond of the North Island’s Central Plateau. It’s great there all year-round and awesome to explore in a motorhome. I think The Desert Road is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular roads. The whole region provides all the ingredients for the perfect road trip. Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe - the mountains in the National Park are majestic. Everywhere you turn, it’s awe inspiring stuff.

Star in your own adventure!