by Chris Millard
I was in New Zealand for the Test tour in 2023 – overseeing the tour and ticking it off as, surprisingly, it was my first tour to NZ despite being with the company for over eight years! It was incredible to be at both Tests in Mount Manganui and Wellington, and what a thrilling series it was.
New Zealand is a place that has it all. The most beautiful scenery, fantastic culture, food and drink to die for and plenty of things to do. Many people said to me over the years that NZ is their favourite tour and I knew why very quickly. It’s a place that is very relaxed and fun all in the same breath. We are very lucky to tour some amazing destinations, but this trip is right up there with the very best.
The grounds in NZ are very special. One day they’re your average park ground, and the next day they are Test match venues! Have you ever wanted to watch a Test match in your local park? Well, NZ is pretty much as close as you will get to that experience.
And then there is the food and drink, wow. It is epic! They have such diverse options in every location, especially in the locations we are touring later this year. A drink in the ground – called ‘Pals’ – is something to look out for. It is like fizzy water with a twist…
We were fortunate enough to be talking at lunch at an event and we were able to meet some of the members of the Wellington stadium. They were genuinely so grateful that we travelled in such vast numbers and created so much revenue over the three weeks in New Zealand. Kiwis are our allies – and we have one thing in common that we both agree on!
You only regret the things you don’t do. And not experiencing cricket in New Zealand would certainly be a regret! I understand it is an expensive place to travel to, and we have the small matter of an Ashes series twelve months later, but if you are considering it and have the means to do so, I can guarantee you won’t regret it.
I will be going back this November. Simple as that! I wouldn’t want to miss it for the world. New Zealand is a perfectly rounded country with a fantastic culture. The three locations we are touring later this year are very different, but all equally as special! With the small matter of a South Island test match on this tour, it really isn’t to be missed.
Join the Barmy Army in New Zealand later this year!
England Men are gearing up for an epic return to cricket paradise, New Zealand, in November and December 2024, for a thrilling three-test Tour! The dates have recently been confirmed, with Ben Stokes’ side travelling to Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton.
- 1st Test: Christchurch (28th Nov-2nd Dec)
- 2nd Test: Wellington (6th Dec-10th Dec)
- 3rd Test: Hamilton (14th Dec-18th Dec)
Matches between England and New Zealand have delivered some unforgettable moments in the past – most recently the Wellington one-run wonder. We’re confident that the upcoming England vs New Zealand series in December will add some memorable chapters to this cricket rivalry.
The Barmy Army is thrilled to be returning to New Zealand, and our Travel packages are LIVE. Fancy joining us there? Click the button below to book a package.
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