12 Days in New Zealand: Natural Wonders Tour
10 cities |
26 attraction(s) |
total distance 2258
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: Waitomo District > Matamata
2 attraction(s) ·
67 km
1
Cave with a modern visitor centre & home to a population of glow worms found only in New Zealand.
67
km
2
Picturesque sheep farm used for filming Shire scenes, with guided tours, a gift shop, cafe & inn.
Day3: Christchurch
2 attraction(s) ·
1 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.
Day4: Christchurch
2 attraction(s) ·
40 km
2
Embark on a wildlife safari at the Akaroa Harbor to discover New Zealand's rarest Hector's dolphins; and get up close with the alpacas at the Shamara Alpaca Farm, located 20 kilometers to the west.
Day5: Lake Tekapo
2 attraction(s) ·
3 km
1
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
2
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.
Day6: Lake Tekapo > South Island > Mount Cook Village
3 attraction(s) ·
63 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.
53
km
2
Popular with trekking enthusiasts, this 12,218-ft. peak offers forested trails to glacial views.
10
km
3
The Cook Islands National Park is located in the southeast of the South Alps, New Zealand. It is one of New Zealand's most famous and oldest national parks, adjacent to the West District National Park, the Aspyling Mountain National Park, and the Fjord National Park. There are nearly 20 mountains here that are over 3,000 meters high, including New Zealand's highest peak - Mount Cook, with an altitude of 3,753 meters. In addition, there are more than 360 magnificent glaciers here, the longest of which is the Tasman Glacier, which is up to 27 kilometers long. If you are passionate about outdoor activities such as climbing, skiing, mountaineering, hiking, and river rafting, the Cook Islands National Park will be a perfect destination. However, if you just want to appreciate the wonderful natural scenery or experience the peaceful environment, visiting this national park is also an unmissable opportunity.
Day7: Mount Cook Village > Queenstown
4 attraction(s) ·
188 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.
2
km
4
Lush, lakefront peninsula with a waterfront trail & alpine vistas, plus an ice rink & skate ramps.
Day8: Queenstown
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
Day9: Dunedin
2 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
This British railway station is steeped in history, with exhibitions inside and tourists able to take trains to the nearby coastal peninsula.
4
km
2
Every visitor to Dunedin will head to this residential street with a slope of about 19 degrees. For drivers with strong skills and responsive brakes, they can speed down the slope at the top like on a rollercoaster. However, most visitors choose to hike up and take interesting photos on the way. In February, the Gutbuster race is held here and in July, the Cadbury World chocolate factory rolls down 10,000 chocolate candies from the top of the slope for visitors to enjoy for free - both fun and delicious.
Day10: Dunedin
2 attraction(s) ·
11 km
1
"Penguin Place" is a privately funded sanctuary aimed at saving the rare species, Yellow-Eyed Penguin, from global extinction. This adorable tailcoat gentleman is currently only found in natural reserves within New Zealand, with only around 5,000-6,000 in existence. Visitors are recommended to travel to Dunedin and join a local tour to Penguin Place to observe and admire these lovely creatures. The entire trip takes about 2 hours, and visitors can get up close and personal with the penguins using a unique hidden system and concealed tunnels. The best time to observe Yellow-Eyed Penguins is from 3pm until before dark.
11
km
2
In 1871, Dunedin businessman and politician William Larnach built a luxury castle for his first wife. It is New Zealand's only castle and is located on the highest point of Otago Peninsula. The interior is beautifully decorated with luxurious furniture and exquisite carvings. The banquet hall, a gift for Larnach's daughter's 21st birthday, is truly lavish. Today, visitors can enjoy food and coffee at the castle's café. The peaceful and beautiful garden in front of the castle offers stunning views of the peninsula and harbor. However, the landlord eventually committed suicide by gunshot in 1898 due to financial crisis.
Day11: Wellington
2 attraction(s) ·
2 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.
Day12: Wellington
2 attraction(s) ·
1 km
1
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.
1
km
2
