12 Days in New Zealand: Natural Charms and Cultural Excursions
12 cities |
28 attraction(s) |
total distance 2631
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day10
Day11
Day12
Day1: Auckland
3 attraction(s) ·
10 km
1
Sky Tower, the tallest building in the southern hemisphere, was built in 1996. It stands at 328 meters tall and boasts multiple observation decks which offer a 360-degree view of Auckland. High-powered binoculars aid visitors in enjoying the view. Broadcast services in various languages and interactive technology can be found throughout the tower. There are also audio-visual exhibits to help visitors learn more about Auckland. Visitors with tickets can access the main observation deck at 186 meters and the Sky Deck at 220 meters. If you are not afraid of heights, you can opt for the glass elevator ride, which allows you to admire outside views as you ascend. There are two observation decks on the tower, both surrounded by glass floors. You can stand on them and look up at the blue sky or feel the thrill of the high altitude beneath your feet. The SkyWalk and SkyJump are two extreme sports offered on the tower that require courage and daring to attempt. Several restaurants can be found on the tower, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious food. At night, the view from the tower is breathtaking, with many considering it even more spectacular than during the day. Visit the Sky Tower and enjoy an unparalleled experience, while taking in the beautiful sights of Auckland.
4
km
2
Mount Eden, located in Auckland, is one of the hills formed by volcanic ejecta around a volcanic vent, and it is also the highest point of natural beauty in Auckland, which is stunning. The bottom of the volcanic cone is now a lush green space, which looks like a big cone-shaped bowl from afar, and the unique landscape is unforgettable. Climbing to the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a perfect panoramic view of Auckland, including the beautiful Sky Tower, the spectacular One Tree Hill, and the mysterious Rangitoto Island volcano. In addition to being able to enjoy these wonderful views for free, it is also very suitable for taking photos, capturing panoramic views of the surrounding area, especially when shooting the Sky Tower, it is incomparable.
7
km
Day2: Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
36 km
1
Pools of colourful bubbling water are heated by volcanoes at this oft-visited natural attraction.
31
km
2
Traditional Maori village offering a guided bush walk, cultural performances & a ground-cooked meal.
6
km
3
Lake Rotorua is one of the largest lakes in central northern New Zealand's North Island and is one of the leading lakes within approximately 20 lakes. It covers an area of 80 square kilometers (31 square miles) and is a fascinating scenic spot. Located on the edges of the city, Lake Rotorua is a visual feast where you can choose to cruise around the small islands in the lake. For the best views, it's recommended to visit Grand Vue Rd, Kawaha Point, or Rotorua 3010, which are excellent locations for viewing the magnificent scenery of Lake Rotorua.
Day3: Taupo
2 attraction(s) ·
20 km
1
Taupo Lake is located in the central region of the North Island volcanic area, known for fishing and vacationing, and is the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand. It is situated behind the Tangariro Mountains, and the famous Huka Falls is also located here. Despite its peacefulness and clearness in the summer, it is actually a volcanic lake that had violent ancient volcanic eruptions. Today, Taupo Lake is one of the few remaining wild trout spawning sites in the world and the largest trout fishing center globally. You can hire a guide to fish for rainbow or brown trout or learn the skills of fly fishing. The trout you catch can be cooked for you at many local restaurants or hotels. Huka Falls is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in New Zealand and a great place to take photos. The sound of thunder, the magnificent spectacle of up to 220,000 liters of water per second cascading down from the cliff top. You can also take a jet boat ride to get here. In addition, the area has many other interesting sights, including the famous moon crater (Craters of the Moon), where you can see oddities such as geysers, mud pools, and hot steam vents. Moreover, various water activities are available here, such as jet boating, parasailing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, yachting, and seaplane sightseeing.
20
km
2
The Huka Falls are located in the Waikato region of New Zealand. With abundant water and spectacular scenery, it is one of the most popular natural landscapes in the area. The Waikato River mouth of the waterfall is 12 meters high and the water flow is 230 tons per second. Due to the effects of narrow passages and faults, the Waikato River appears light blue in color, like a beautiful gem. When the water flows impact the waterfall, the powerful force creates a foamy waterfall, which is very impressive. Therefore, locals call this beautiful waterfall "Huka", which means foam.
Day4: Wellington
3 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
"Te Papa" is the nickname for the National Museum of New Zealand, located in the center of Wellington with a convenient location near the coast. The museum has been selected as one of the most popular museums in the southern hemisphere and represents the history and culture of New Zealand. The museum displays a rich collection of artifacts using high-tech and interactive exhibition methods for visitors. This museum is the best window to understand the history, geography and culture of New Zealand, and is well-liked by tourists from all over the world.
2
km
2
Wellington Botanic Garden, built in 1844, is a beautiful and tranquil place with local and exotic tree species. One of the oldest exotic trees in New Zealand can be found here, which is truly astounding. There are elegant ponds and flocks of ducks in the park, adding charm to the garden. In addition, there are the Begonia House, cafes, colorful flower and herb gardens, as well as gardens with Australian style and the award-winning Lady Norwood Rose Garden.
2
km
Day5: Picton
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
1
Marlborough Sounds is formed by an ancient sunken river valley and the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by high mountains and towering trees. The region consists of three main water bodies: Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound, and Pelorus Sound, known for their beautiful landscapes and popular among tourists. There are 50 protected areas under the Ministry for the Environment that highlight the preservation of the ecological environment. The islands provide a perfect ecological habitat, with very few predatory animals, allowing for the existence of native wildlife.
Kayaking and hiking are popular activities in the area, and there are several campsites for tent camping. Visitors can also rent boats to experience the joy of boating. There are multiple trails that pass through pristine forests and beautiful beaches, as well as five mountain biking trails. Picton and Havelock are the two main towns in the area, with Picton located in Queen Charlotte Sound and Havelock in Pelorus Sound. From Wellington, one can take a large ferry to Picton, and it is also possible to drive there.
Day6: Kaikoura > South Island
2 attraction(s) ·
5 km
1
Do you want to get close to the stunning scenery and wildlife of the Kaikoura Peninsula? Come try the Kaikoura Peninsula Trail! You can choose to spend half a day or a full day exploring the entire trail on foot. However, if time is limited, you can choose to only take a 25-minute walk to the Whalers Bay viewpoint and experience the first part of the trail. No matter where you are on the trail, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery where the sea meets the mountains. For travelers who love photography and hiking, the Kaikoura Peninsula Trail is an absolute must-see.
5
km
2
Up close & personal encounters with giant sperm whales, seals & dolphins aboard a tourist vessel.
Day7: Christchurch
3 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
Christchurch has a 300,000 square meter green land located by the Avon River, which is the most pleasant place in the city. Over ten thousand species of plants display a colorful array of colors in different seasons, bringing endless surprises to visitors. Whether it's the elderly, children, couples, or friends, taking a stroll in the botanical garden or enjoying a cup of coffee in the cafe is very pleasant. The visitor information center is located between the botanical garden and the Canterbury Museum and provides timely answers to any visitor questions. Come here and experience the atmosphere of the garden city!
1
km
2
The Canterbury Museum is located in the center of Christchurch, with a grand and distinct European architectural style. The museum has a diverse range of exhibitions, including New Zealand history, nature, Maori culture, art, etc. The Antarctic-related theme is particularly fascinating, showcasing vivid sculptures of emperor penguins and Coracle, a small boat used for survival during the shipwreck of 1907 on Disappointment Island. In addition, the museum has abundant specimens of birds from the South Pacific, showcasing the rich ecological diversity of our planet. Before July 2015, the special exhibition "Quake City" was open to the public, displaying the reconstruction and impact of Christchurch after multiple earthquakes since September 2010, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s history and development. The museum’s ticket prices are also very affordable, with only 10 New Zealand dollars for adults to enjoy the exhibitions. A visit to the museum will provide a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Christchurch.
4
km
Day8: Greymouth
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
Day9: South Island > Fox Glacier
2 attraction(s) ·
19 km
1
7.5-mi.-long glacier accessible by an 8-hour hike or by helicopter for guided tours at the top.
19
km
2
Matheson Lake is located in the Fox Glacier region, offering an opportunity for hikers to enjoy the magnificent snow-capped mountains and lake scenery. The lake area has three viewpoints located at 15, 25, and 60 minutes respectively clockwise. Among them, the Reflection Island viewpoint offers the most captivating view, where visitors can witness the stunning sunset scenery.
Day10: Wanaka
3 attraction(s) ·
23 km
1
From the shore of Lake Wanaka, magnificent views of the town of Wanaka can be enjoyed, and there are a variety of activities to choose from on the lake and along its banks. Wanaka is a unique place full of vitality and a sporty atmosphere, where visitors can try cycling, water skiing, surfing, mountain climbing, running, off-road motorbiking, winter snowboarding or skiing, or simply stroll along the beautiful lake and experience the natural scenery here.
19
km
2
This world brings joy to both adults and children, filled with a strange and psychedelic atmosphere. Here, you can collect many visual tricks that are "seen but unseen", and even the bathroom presents a dazzling 3D image. There is also an interesting ancient Roman toilet, although you cannot use it for real, it is still a fun photo spot. The Hall of Following Faces is also very interesting, and viewing it from different angles can bring unexpected surprises. In addition, there is a large wooden maze where you can spend over an hour and walk five kilometers to complete it. Besides, there are many intellectual games in the cafeteria, suitable for visitors of all ages to play together.
4
km
3
A solitary, crooked crack willow tree sits alone on Lake Wanaka, backdropped by the Southern Alps.
Day11: Queenstown
3 attraction(s) ·
2 km
1
Lush, lakefront peninsula with a waterfront trail & alpine vistas, plus an ice rink & skate ramps.
2
km
2
Attraction featuring a gondola to a panoramic restaurant/bar, hiking trails & a luge ride down.
1
km
3
Day12: Queenstown > Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
1043 km
2
