Springtime Splendor: 12-Day New Zealand Adventure
8 cities |
18 attraction(s) |
total distance 1532
km
TIPS
Day1-3
Day4-5
Day6-7
Day8-9
Day10-12
Day1-3: Auckland
4 attraction(s) ·
54 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.
2
km
2
The Auckland Museum is located in Auckland Domain Park and is a comprehensive museum of Gothic architecture, with a rich collection of historical and cultural relics. The museum has three floors. The first floor mainly displays Maori culture, including Maori handicrafts, meeting places, and daily items, as well as Pacific Islander art. The second floor exhibits various animal and plant specimens, with the most eye-catching being the remains of the moa bird. The third floor displays the history of the two world wars, including the weapons used and the soldiers who died for their country. The marble walls of the Hall of Memories are inscribed with the list of heroes of World War II, while World War I has only the dead. The museum also has a magnificent memorial to fallen soldiers, where a solemn mourning ceremony is held every April 25th. The museum also has the most comprehensive collection of Maori culture and New Zealand history, as well as three daily Maori performances. The museum's exterior is magnificent, with exhibits mainly featuring traditional art and culture of Pacific Islander indigenous peoples, including Maori totem sculptures and architecture, as well as various treasures. The museum offers views of Auckland's iconic landmarks such as the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Sky Tower, and container port, and is one of Auckland's must-see attractions.
30
km
3
Waiheke Island is an island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, about 17.7 kilometers from Auckland. It is the most populous island in the archipelago and has the highest population density in New Zealand. The ferry takes about 40 minutes to reach and is known as the "wine island" with vineyards of all sizes where visitors can tour and taste wine. Other tourist attractions on the island include alpaca farms, beaches, hiking trails, boutique shops, archery, kayaking, and high-flying zip lines. Cars and circular island buses are available for rent on the island, and a $10 all-day bus pass allows unlimited rides on the island's public transportation on the same day. The famous Chinese poet Gu Cheng also lived on the island and left behind well-known poems.
22
km
4
Rangitoto Island is a pristine volcanic island and a popular day trip destination among locals. The island is a nature reserve with over 200 native tree species and plants, including one of the world's largest Pohutukawa forests. As it is a volcanic island, it is covered with black volcanic rocks, making hiking the main activity on the island. The most famous trail leads to the summit, which takes about an hour, but offers a 360-degree view of Auckland. It is important to note that there are no food and beverage facilities on the island, so it is advisable to bring enough provisions. Additionally, the island is a pest-free area, so it is necessary to check belongings and ensure packaging is sealed, especially for food bags, to avoid bringing pests onto the island. Furthermore, it is essential to wear a comfortable pair of hiking shoes.
Day4-5: Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
27 km
1
Pools of colourful bubbling water are heated by volcanoes at this oft-visited natural attraction.
24
km
2
Tepuia, located about 2.5 kilometers from the city center of Rotorua, is a must-visit tourist destination. This is because it is home to the world-famous Pohutu geyser, with unique and stunning scenery. In addition, Tepuia is also the birthplace of New Zealand's Maori crafts and arts school, where visitors can enjoy traditional Maori dance performances and craft productions, and gain a deep understanding of Maori culture.
3
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.
Day6-7: Taupo > Ruapehu District Council > Taupo District
4 attraction(s) ·
105 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.
75
km
3
The 4th National Park in the world, this protected area is important for its culture & its nature.
12
km
Day8-9: Wellington
3 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
New Zealand's principal museum tracking native and colonial culture as well as natural history.
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
3
Wildlife sanctuary with native species, including rare birds, lizards, frogs, plants & trees.
Day10-12: Queenstown > South Island > Queenstown
4 attraction(s) ·
148 km
