12-Day Winter Exploration in New Zealand: Scenic Beauty and Adventure Experiences
8 cities |
22 attraction(s) |
total distance 2121
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day10
Day11
Day12
Day1: Christchurch
2 attraction(s) ·
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.
Day2: Lake Tekapo
2 attraction(s) ·
2 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.
Day3: Lake Tekapo > Mount Cook Village
3 attraction(s) ·
64 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.
43
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.
Day4: Mount Cook Village > Queenstown
2 attraction(s) ·
184 km
Day5: Queenstown
2 attraction(s) ·
2 km
1
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
2
Lush, lakefront peninsula with a waterfront trail & alpine vistas, plus an ice rink & skate ramps.
Day6: Queenstown > South Island
3 attraction(s) ·
162 km
Day7: Dunedin
2 attraction(s) ·
2 km
1
This British railway station is steeped in history, with exhibitions inside and tourists able to take trains to the nearby coastal peninsula.
2
km
2
This museum, with an ancient appearance and modern interior, is a place that can consume half of your day. Not only can you learn about the history, natural landscape, and flora and fauna resources of the Otago region, but there is also a newly opened tropical rainforest butterfly house, which is a favorite among children. The café and public area in the lobby on the first floor are also popular, often gathering people to chat and enjoy life. Guides can take you on a tour every day at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm (adult tickets are 10 New Zealand dollars), and attending the discussion at 2 pm is free. The weekend activities are also very rich, and you can check the website for more information.
Day8: Dunedin
2 attraction(s) ·
11 km
1
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.
11
km
2
"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.
Day9: Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
4 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.
4
km
2
Day10: Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
5 km
1
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
Day11: Rotorua
2 attraction(s) ·
10 km
1
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.
10
km
2
Whakarewarewa Thermal Village is a popular attraction where visitors can observe Maori traditional culture, admire the beautiful hot springs, and watch the breeding of kiwi birds.
Day12: Rotorua
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
1
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.
