12 Days in New Zealand - North and South Islands
7 cities |
32 attraction(s) |
total distance 2584
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day10
Day11
Day12
Day1: Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
3 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.
3
km
Day2: Auckland
3 attraction(s) ·
8 km
1
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.
3
km
2
At the highest point of Auckland Park, you can find the Auckland Museum. Here, not only various precious collections are displayed, but also there are daily Maori cultural performances (fees apply). We strongly recommend that you come and admire its style.
5
km
3
Mission Bay, located near downtown Auckland, is one of the locals' favorite beaches. Visitors can experience the locals' way of life there. When the weather is good, people go to the beach to sunbathe and sometimes get food stolen by seagulls. The highly recommended Movenpick ice cream here, especially the freshly baked Waffle Cone, is delicious according to the author.
Day3: Waitomo District > Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
111 km
1
Cave with a modern visitor centre & home to a population of glow worms found only in New Zealand.
104
km
2
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.
7
km
3
Polynesia Spa is located in the government garden. It is a historical mineral spring and can be reached within a 5-minute walk from the center of Rotorua. There are a total of 35 hot spring pools here, and visitors can also buy a variety of hot spring derived products. Among them, the mineral mud beauty and skincare products are very famous.
Day4: Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
18 km
1
Agrodome is located in a rural area not far from the center of Rotorua, offering a variety of fun rural experiences such as New Zealand's highest bungee jumping, sheep shearing performances, milking cows, tasting honey and fresh juices, as well as enjoying typical New Zealand rural scenery.
11
km
2
Scenic redwood forest with trails for walking, biking & horse-riding, with toilet facilities.
8
km
3
Traditional Maori village offering a guided bush walk, cultural performances & a ground-cooked meal.
Day5: Wellington
3 attraction(s) ·
3 km
1
Wellington Parliament Building, designed by Sir Basil Spence, is considered one of the most magnificent wooden structures in the South Pacific. It consists of a Gothic-style library, a British Renaissance Parliament House, and a circular office building shaped like a beehive. The building has been controversial but its unique style is widely praised.
1
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
Day6: Wellington
3 attraction(s) ·
5 km
1
Wellington Zoo has a history of over 100 years and is home to a variety of endangered animals, including the New Zealand national bird, the kiwi. Here, visitors can have close encounters with a range of animals and enjoy a fun-filled day. In addition to New Zealand's native birds and parrots, the zoo also houses kangaroos from Australia, rare sun bears from Asia, and African wild dogs, giraffes, and lions. Children can also interact with adorable red pandas and listen to interesting stories from the zookeepers. Both adults and children can experience the charm and diversity of animals here.
3
km
2
Mount Victoria, located on the east side of Wellington, is called Tangi Te Keo in Maori language. It overlooks the entire city and has a lookout at the top, where you can enjoy the magnificent Wellington Harbor and the sea extending to the south, as well as the sight of the Cook Strait ferry entering the harbor. Climbing to the top of the mountain, you can also see the office of Seddon, the prime minister of New Zealand in the early 20th century, which has been preserved.
2
km
3
The National Museum of New Zealand, located in the city center, was originally the Colonial Museum and was built in 1865. It is one of the largest museums in the Southern Hemisphere. The museum mainly showcases Maori culture and has a rich collection. It also displays artworks from the Pacific region. The museum features a Maori meeting house and high-tech exhibitions, including a shaking house experience, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum also hosts periodic renowned temporary exhibitions that require separate admission fees. However, visiting the museum itself is free. As the national museum and art gallery of New Zealand, it is the best choice for tourists to learn about the local culture.
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: Christchurch
3 attraction(s) ·
18 km
2
The South Pole Station, located near the airport, was built to manage research projects in Antarctica by New Zealand, the US, and Italy. It is also suitable as a science or knowledge center, ideal for children to visit. Here, you can learn about Antarctica's history and geology and view specimens collected underwater. You can also experience the "Antarctic Storm Room" and feel the cold of the ice continent. At the center, you can also ride an all-terrain vehicle and experience an outdoor adventure with the Hagglund Ride.
10
km
3
The cardboard cathedral in Christchurch, New Zealand is a transitional Anglican church that was opened in August 2013. It was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, who won the Pritzker Prize in 2014, and can accommodate 700 people. The design features unique materials and structures, including 60cm (24-inch) diameter cardboard tubes, wood, and steel. The altar stands at 21 meters (69 feet) high, and the roof is made of polycarbonates and eight shipping containers. This building is an excellent example of modern architecture that attracts a large number of visitors.
Day9: Lake Tekapo
3 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
There is a lake called Lake Tekapo in the central part of South Island, New Zealand, managed by Canterbury. The lake is 27 kilometers long, 6 kilometers wide, with an area of 87 square kilometers and an elevation of 700 meters. The average depth of the lake is 69 meters, with a maximum depth of 120 meters. It has strong evaporation capacity and a storage capacity of 6 cubic kilometers.
2
km
2
The Church of the Good Shepherd is a historic church constructed by renowned architect Benjamin Woolfield Mountford in 1935. This church features a unique Gothic wood and stone building and is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. It is located on the shores of Lake Tekapo and surrounded by stunning natural scenery amidst towering mountains. Due to its unique architecture and charming environment, many couples choose to hold their weddings here, making it one of the most famous tourist attractions in New Zealand.
3
km
3
On a small hill by the shore of Lake Tekapo, there is an observatory which becomes the best place for stargazing at night. Standing on the summit, you can overlook the milky blue Lake Tekapo and the jewel blue Lake Alexandrina. There is also a small restaurant on the mountain where coffee accompanied by mountain views and starry skies makes people feel extremely comfortable.
Day10: Lake Tekapo > Queenstown
4 attraction(s) ·
190 km
1
There is a lake called Lake Tekapo in the central part of South Island, New Zealand, managed by Canterbury. The lake is 27 kilometers long, 6 kilometers wide, with an area of 87 square kilometers and an elevation of 700 meters. The average depth of the lake is 69 meters, with a maximum depth of 120 meters. It has strong evaporation capacity and a storage capacity of 6 cubic kilometers.
186
km
2
Lush, lakefront peninsula with a waterfront trail & alpine vistas, plus an ice rink & skate ramps.
2
km
3
Nestled in a glaciated valley, New Zealand's third largest lake is shaped like a lightning bolt and boasts stunning scenery. The northern end is where the Dart River merges into it, while the Kawarau River flows into the lake mouth after originating from Queenstown. It is surrounded by high mountains, with the highest peak being Mount Earnslaw at 2,819 meters above sea level. The towns around the lake include Queenstown, Kingston, Glenorchy, and Kinloch, the center of New Zealand's outdoor activities. Bungee jumping, a worldwide sensation, originated here. One of the activities by the lake is a cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to see the lake views. In the early 20th century, the Earnslaw mainly provided transportation for goods to the ranches on the lake shore. Today, it is still well-preserved and takes tourists to the Walter Peak sheep farm for a stunning view. All of these towns quietly nestled along the lake are worth a visit.
3
km
4
Attraction featuring a gondola to a panoramic restaurant/bar, hiking trails & a luge ride down.
Day11: Queenstown
2 attraction(s) ·
71 km
1
Milford Sound is world-renowned for its towering mountains and wildlife, and draws more visitors than its rival, Doubtful Sound. One of the most well-known peaks in the area is Mitre Peak, which stands at 1682m tall and is named for its resemblance to a bishop's mitre. Bowen Falls is the only permanent waterfall in the area, standing at 161m tall, while the other permanent waterfall, Sterling Falls, is 155m tall. Visitors to Milford Sound can also see seals resting on the shore and may be fortunate enough to spot penguins, dolphins, and whales. Due to the area's high annual rainfall, visitors can often enjoy misty and magical views of countless waterfalls. There are two options for one-day tours of Milford Sound: a bus and cruise tour or a plane and cruise tour. The bus and cruise tour typically departs around 7am, boards the cruise ship between 12pm and 1pm, completes the tour of the sound within two hours, and returns to Queenstown in the afternoon. The plane and cruise tour takes 4 to 4.5 hours, and the two best cruise companies, Real Journeys and Southern Discoveries, provide Chinese-language commentary and offer both one-day tours of Milford Sound and plane-and-cruise tours. Most tour companies offer free hotel transfers, but this should be confirmed at the time of booking.
71
km
Day12: Queenstown > Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
1043 km
2
