091: Finding Freedom in Slow Travel and Bikepacking with Nicole Koch

Growing up between Whangaparoa and Seattle gave Auckland firefighter Nicole Koch an adventurous spirit, inspiring her solo bikepacking trip from Queen Charlotte to Cromwell. On a $500 mountain bike, Nicole chased freedom and slow travel in the South Island, choosing a route of her own. Following a difficult break up, the 1200km journey gave her 14 days of biking to take time off work, a mental escape through the natural beauty of Aotearoa. Nicole shares the day-to-day challenges of a solo adventure and the experiences that kept her motivated. She also gives advice to anyone wanting to travel as a slower pace on a bike, along with her favorite bike trail suggestions in the South Island. KEA Outdoors is a kiwi brand on a mission to build innovative, versatile and reliable outdoor gear for the every-day adventurer. Use the code Adventure2024 for 15% off your next online order: bit.ly/458VGEG Thank you so much for tuning in and coming along for the ride. If you love the show and enjoyed listening, please take the time to leave a review on Apple or Spotify. I would also love to connect with you, so send me a DM on Instagram, leave me a voice message and I can’t wait to see you next time. Until then, keep adventuring :) Follow Nicole on Instagram: instagram.com/nicolevkoch Read the Blog: www.abigailhannah.nz Follow Abigail on Instagram: instagram.com/abigailhannnah/ Follow Abigail on TikTok: tiktok.com/@abigailhannnah/