Couple’s Epic Journey Around the World in a Jeep

In April 2018, Bridget and I began an epic journey from Alaska to Auckland in our Jeep, Gunther. Over three years, we drove 350,000 kilometers across 7 continents and 90 countries. Inspired by adventurer Gunther Holtorf, we chose a Jeep Wrangler for its simplicity and adaptability. From Alaska’s icy roads to Africa’s fuel challenges, Gunther has been our steadfast companion. Highlights include meeting Holtorf in Germany and navigating extreme climates worldwide. Currently, Gunther awaits in Russia due to border closures, while we explore New Zealand and prepare a new vehicle for future adventures. Our journey continues!

Kiwi Couple’s Epic Jeep Adventure Around the World

Take Off on a journey of wonder with a Kiwi couple and their trusty Jeep, Gunther. Together, they’re chasing the horizon and embracing the world, one breathtaking adventure at a time.

How It All Began

• First Date Adventures: We met just four months earlier. On our first date, we swam during a cyclone. On the second, we had a picnic in freezing conditions near Mt. Cook.
• The Big Idea: On a drive back to Queenstown, we challenged ourselves: drive across 80 countries in 80 weeks. At 1 a.m., we shook hands on this wild dream.

Preparing for the Expedition

Finding Gunther:

• We chose a Jeep Wrangler for its size and durability.
• After much searching, we found the perfect vehicle in Vancouver, Canada, and flew there to meet our new travel companion.
• The Jeep’s white color and black “E” decal made it resemble a UN peacekeeping vehicle—helpful for navigating tough regions.

Inspired by a Legend:

• We named our Jeep after Gunther Holtorf, a Bavarian man who drove a G-Wagen around the world for 25 years.

Highlights from the Road

Leg 1: Arctic Alaska to Ushuaia

• Challenges: Driving the Pan-American Highway taught us about our car, equipment, and even our relationship.
• Learnings: Sleeping in the Jeep became second nature, and we learned to adapt to extreme climates and road conditions.

Leg 2: South Africa to Norway

• Vehicle Repairs: Mechanics in Johannesburg helped fix Gunther after wear and tear.
• Fuel Issues: Black-market fuel in North Africa caused engine damage, which was later repaired in Istanbul.
• A Special Meeting: We detoured to Bavaria to meet Gunther Holtorf, who was moved to see his name on our Jeep.

Leg 3: Russia to New Zealand

• Unexpected Halt: Russia closed its borders during the Siberian leg of our trip. We left Gunther in a Moscow airport parking lot, where it remains under the care of a warden.
• Ongoing Challenges: Gunther now has an illegal status in Russia, and efforts are underway to retrieve it safely.

What’s Next?

• New Adventures in New Zealand: While waiting to continue, we’re exploring remote locations in New Zealand, from Fiordland to the Far North.
• A New Companion: We’re building a second vehicle, a JT Gladiator named Roman, to join future expeditions.

Fun Facts About Gunther

• Has traveled the equator and Arctic Circle twice.
• Covered a distance equal to halfway to the moon.
• Survived extreme climates, from the hottest deserts to icy Arctic tundras.

The Road Ahead

We’ll resume our journey when borders reopen. Until then, we’re preparing for bigger challenges with Gunther and Roman. The world is full of stories waiting to be told, and we’re just getting started!