New Zealand versus England in Cricket: The Fellowship of the Oval

Move over Australia. Are the Black Caps England’s keenest rivals now?

England versus New Zealand has taken on a decidedly Lord of the Rings feel in recent years with more twists and turns than struggle for Middle Earth. Who can forget the nerve-wracking battle for the 2019 ODI World Cup when Kiwi-born Player of the Match Ben Stokes et al triumphed on a boundary countback following a deadlocked Super Over.

Then fast forward to 2022 when England dominated and whitewashed the Black Caps in three tests. Move on to 2023 and the latest episode in the series produced a plot-twist of a Kiwi follow-on win in Wellington. The series was drawn but there’s no doubt England’s 267 run victory in the first test was overshadowed by the tactics deployed, and the manner of defeat, in the second.

It’s a friendly rivalry of course but if you ever needed to add a little extra spice don’t forget that the originator of the no-holds barred strategy known as ‘Bazball’ is one Brendon McCullum, England’s Gandalf figure and a legend in Black Cap cricketing history.

The Return of the Kings and the quest for those rings!

The majestic Stokes and McCullum’s recent exploits have helped crown England’s ascent of the cricketing world and their return to New Zealand is likely to add a new chapter to the reign of Bazball. But returning to the land of their origin they’ll face a barrage of Black Cap bowlers and batsmen. A formidable team is currently led by Tim Southee who can call on the talismanic Kane Williamson, the safe hands of Tom Blundell or the ever youthful athleticism of Neil Wagner.

As of early 2023 our venues for the test tour of New Zealand are yet to be revealed. However, we’re hopeful that you’ll get to pull up a ringside seat in Wellington’s historic Basin Reserve, the venue for McCullum’s own 300 run innings and Richard Hadlee’s 300^th test wicket. Alternatively you may find yourself in Auckland’s hot and humid arena of dreams at Eden Park, home to not just cricket but many a riotous rugby match. Or who could be happier than to be in Hamilton lounging on a sun-kissed grassy bank beside a pitch renowned for its run-making possibilities.

New Zealand attractions and adventures

New Zealand – also known as Aotearoa – justly revels in the title of adventure capital of the world. A whole industry has sprung up around the production of adrenaline from whitewater rafting and mountain biking to death defying skydiving and bungy jumping. While we’re on tour we can help organise a range of thrill-seeking activities and unforgettable attractions in New Zealand’s south and north islands.

But there is so much more.

The land of the long white cloud stretches from the rainforests to the icy waters where whales migrate. In between you can enjoy the bright lights and of Auckland, the City of Sails, or visit the tremor-induced terraces of Wellington, the political and cultural capital of this small, vibrant nation. You can feast your senses on the geysers and hot springs of Rotorua or delve deep underground to marvel at the magical glow worm caves of Waitomo.

And of course, no journey would be complete without a beer in the Green Dragon, centrepiece of the Ring Trilogy and Hobbit’s miniaturised film set.

Find out more in our travel guide to New Zealand.