Kiwi-Indian Duo Embraces Van Life in New Zealand’s Scenic Splendor

Young couple Ami and Sagar have embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery by living in their travel van, Wander Bee. Since quitting their jobs in September 2023, they have been exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand. This lifestyle change symbolizes not just their love for travel but also a significant shift in their perspectives on life and comfort.

The couple, who originally hail from Surat, Gujarat, describes their experience as an “adult gap year.” This concept, often seen in Western cultures, involves taking a deliberate break from full-time employment to focus on personal growth and exploration. With a daily budget of $160, Ami and Sagar have embraced freedom camping, allowing them to immerse themselves in the breathtaking views of Aotearoa.

In a reflection of their upbringing, Sagar noted, “Growing up in India, you know we don’t have the luxury to have an ‘adult gap year’, but we wanted to experience what it feels like.” Convincing their families of this unconventional choice required significant dialogue. They shared stories of successful Indian creators to illustrate the potential of their new lifestyle.

Having spent over a decade in New Zealand and gained citizenship, the duo’s decision to embark on this journey stemmed from their mutual passion for travel. However, they emphasize that wanderlust alone is not a sustainable reason to resign from stable jobs. It involved years of careful planning, budgeting, and a willingness to confront challenging questions about financial sustainability.

Initially, they planned for a year-long adventure but found themselves able to extend their journey significantly. Their travels began in 2024 in Asia and stretched through Eastern and Central Europe, although they did not start van life until later. Upon returning to New Zealand in August 2025 to reconnect with friends and family, they conceptualized their unique way of exploring their adopted country.

Acclimatizing to the rhythm of being digital nomads proved to be a challenge. “That shift was very hard in itself,” Ami reflected. Adjusting to the logistics of full-time travel demanded significant effort and adaptability.

To share their experiences, Ami and Sagar transitioned from YouTube to Instagram, realizing that the latter platform offered faster engagement for creators. Their Instagram page, @sagarandami, has grown from 2,000 followers in June 2025 to over 30,000 today. Their roles within the partnership are clearly defined: Ami manages logistics and planning, while Sagar focuses on creative content and marketing strategies.

The couple’s working schedule consists of alternating between workdays and filming days. They collaborate with brands such as the New Zealand Tourism Board and Kiwi Rail, helping these organizations enhance their visibility through social media.

Living in a van comes with its own set of rules, which Ami and Sagar believe are essential for success in this lifestyle. “First, be flexible. You might end up somewhere you have no idea about,” they advise. “Second, be respectful of all the rules and laws. Freedom camping is the best way to travel around New Zealand, but it comes with responsibilities, so no littering.” Lastly, they stress the importance of using apps to assist with navigation and planning.

Currently, they are exploring the South Island, particularly the Mackenzie region, which offers stunning scenery, fewer crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere. Looking ahead, they plan to continue their travels until March 2026. Their aspirations include saving $20,000 and reaching 50,000 followers on Instagram by the end of the year, which would allow them to further plan their journey.

Ami and Sagar’s story is a compelling blend of discipline and aspiration, illustrating what it truly means to start anew in one’s thirties. Their journey is not merely about travel; it is an exploration of identity, sustainability, and the pursuit of dreams.