14-day panoramic tour of pristine New Zealand
17 cities |
36 attraction(s) |
total distance 1278
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day10
Day11
Day12
Day13
Day14
Day1: Auckland
4 attraction(s) ·
10 km
1
The One Tree Hill is the tallest and natural highest point among the many volcanic cones in Auckland. A volcanic cone is a hill formed by the accumulation of volcanic materials around the volcanic vent, which looks like a conical bowl from a distance. The bottom of the volcanic cone is now a lush green space, which is both beautiful and unique, difficult to find elsewhere. Standing on the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Auckland's scenery, including the Sky Tower, Mount Eden, and Rangitoto Island. If you don't want to spend money to go up the Sky Tower, this is the best place to enjoy Auckland and is especially suitable for photography, capturing panoramic views of the Sky Tower and the surrounding area.
4
km
2
The University of Auckland, founded in 1883, is a research university and the most influential university in New Zealand. Its research output and activities account for over 70% of the national total. In recent years, it has experienced rapid development and has become a world-renowned university. The campus is beautifully constructed and connected to several parks, sometimes blurring the line between park and campus.
3
km
3
This was originally a private garden belonging to a wealthy old lady. The lady, who had a passion for roses, left a will to donate the rose garden to the government.
4
km
4
The Sky Tower was built in 1996 and is the tallest building in the southern hemisphere, standing at 328 meters. It has multiple observation decks with high-powered telescopes for visitors to enjoy panoramic views of Auckland. There are also multilingual broadcasting services, interactive technological devices, and audiovisual exhibitions. The feeling of being on the top of the tower, overlooking Auckland, is truly enjoyable. With a ticket, visitors can access the main observation deck at 186 meters and the Sky Deck at 220 meters. To reach the top, you can take an elevator, and for those who are not afraid of heights, there is a glass elevator that allows you to admire the view as you ascend. From the tower, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Auckland, with many claiming that the night view is even more beautiful than during the day. The observation decks have high-powered telescopes for visitors to view the panoramic scenery of Auckland, as well as multilingual broadcasting services, interactive technological devices, and audiovisual exhibitions. Both outer edges of the two observation decks have glass floors, allowing brave individuals to look down below. Additionally, there are two extreme activities on the tower - SkyWalk and SkyJump - which are only suitable for the daring. After sightseeing, there are several restaurants on the tower for visitors to try.
Day2: Waitomo Caves > Matamata > Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
175 km
1
This is a very rare active rock cave, which was formed about 15,000 years ago. The cave used to have a small lake on the mountain, which was frozen by ice. Later, due to climate change, the ice gradually melted and flowed into the cracks of the underlying limestone, eroding it into a cave. The cave is still young and there is still water flowing inside, and it is still expanding, so it is called an active rock cave.
Below the cave, the hard black stones brought by water flow have caused smooth round stones to be stuck at the entrance of the cave, which looks lovely, but these natural round stones are not allowed to be taken, and tourists should not touch them. There are entrances both above and below the cave, attracting many insects to breed inside. Among them, the most unique residents in the cave are fireflies that prey on insects, which resemble spiders. Fireflies spit out pearl-like sticky threads one after another, as well as a blue glow from their tails, clinging to the top of the deep rock cave. It looks like a starry sky and is quite fascinating.
To visit the firefly cave, you must take a 30-minute boat ride from Tiana to the other side. When you get close to the cave, you still have to take a boat to enter and then walk up the bridge. You will first see a small waterfall, sometimes with trout appearing below. Tourists can take a hand-pulled boat to circle around the dark cave and admire the spectacular firefly cave with a sky full of stars.
100
km
2
The Alexander family's cattle and sheep ranch outside of Matamata is the filming location for the hobbits' hometown, the Shire, in the movies "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." It is now known as "Hobbiton." The film crew spent nine months building the movie sets, including a 1.5 km road, 37 hobbit holes, a mill by the lake, and a double-arched bridge. Visitors can now tour the 44 hobbit holes in the area and participate in sheep shearing demonstrations and feeding baby lambs. Tours are available seven days a week with local guides leading groups every 15 minutes.
75
km
3
Polynesian Spa is New Zealand's leading international day spa, located on Lake Rotorua with stunning views of the lake. Visitors can enjoy relaxing hot pools, luxurious spa treatments and massages, as well as beautiful lake views. The spa uses two unique hot mineral spring waters, one alkaline and one acidic. Many visitors have reported that these hot mineral spring waters have great healing effects on muscle problems, arthritis and rheumatism, among other diseases. The Priest's Spring and the Rachel Spring are the most famous hot springs. The spa has been named one of the world's top ten hot spring spas by the well-known travel magazine Conde Nast Traveler for several years in a row, making it a must-visit destination. We look forward to seeing you there.
Day3: Rotorua
2 attraction(s) ·
37 km
1
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a large geothermal park. The most famous attraction is the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts a water column of 20-30 meters high. It can be seen from the nearby highway every day at 10 am.
37
km
2
Mitai Maori Village is a Maori cultural village located in Rotorua, New Zealand. Here visitors can watch Maori performances, learn about Maori customs, taste their food, see Maori warriors in traditional clothing, experience Maori canoes (waka), and appreciate and understand Maori totem culture. In addition to the culture, this place is also home to a habitat for fireflies.
Day4: marlborough sounds > Picton
2 attraction(s) ·
115 km
1
Blenheim is the largest town in the Marlborough region, located in the northeast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is considered to be the heart of the wine industry. It is one of the sunniest regions in New Zealand, with hot and dry summers and cold, dry winters.
115
km
2
Charlotte Queen's Bay is located at the easternmost part of Marlborough Sound, flowing from southwest to northeast into Cook Strait. Picton, the northernmost city on the South Island's railway and road network, is situated in Charlotte Queen's Bay. Other small towns are scattered throughout the bay, and most of them can only be reached by boat due to the rugged and pristine terrain of the bay. In contrast to Cook Strait, Charlotte Queen's Bay has calm waters and is a popular surfing destination.
Day5: Kaikoura
2 attraction(s) ·
1 km
1
Kaikoura is a gateway to marine wildlife in New Zealand, with over 5,000 New Zealand fur seals living in coastal areas. The seal colony here has also been rated as the third most popular landmark tourist attraction in New Zealand by trip advisor! How do the people of New Zealand harmoniously coexist with the wildlife? Come and experience it firsthand in Kaikoura!
1
km
2
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway allows you to easily explore the beautiful scenery and various wildlife of Kaikoura Peninsula. You can choose to complete the trail in half a day or a full day. If time is limited, you can choose to spend 25 minutes to the Whalers Bay viewpoint to experience the first part of the trail. At any point along the trail, you can personally experience the magnificent views where the sea meets the mountains. In Kaikoura, the Peninsula Walkway is a must-visit for budget travelers who enjoy photography and hiking.
Day6: Christchurch > Lake Tekapo
3 attraction(s) ·
231 km
1
This 300,000 square meters of green land by the Avon River is undoubtedly the most comfortable and pleasant place in Christchurch. With over ten thousand different plants, the park displays various colors in different seasons, creating a stunning spectacle. Whether it's the elderly, children, couples, or friends, strolling in the botanical garden or having a cup of coffee at the cafe inside the park is the best way to experience this "Garden City." The visitor information center is located between the botanical garden and Canterbury Museum, where any questions can be promptly addressed.
230
km
2
Lake Tekapo is located in the Mackenzie Basin, three hours' drive southwest of Christchurch. The glacial rock flour washed into the lake gives it a rich turquoise color. Take an afternoon stroll with your loved one along the shores of Lake Tekapo, and experience the pure beauty of nature. The gentle breeze, snowy mountains, and starry night sky create a romantic atmosphere. In December, the lake is adorned with colorful lupines, making it a truly romantic destination.
1
km
3
Church of the Good Shepherd
This church, named Church of the Good Shepherd, was built in 1935 by the renowned architect Benjamin Woolfield Mountford. Its unique Gothic wooden and stone structure is one-of-a-kind in New Zealand. Located on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this beautiful stone church is set against a backdrop of vast scenic mountains and water, making it a popular venue for weddings. It is a famous landmark in New Zealand.
Day7: Twizel > Mount Cook Village
2 attraction(s) ·
49 km
1
In "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," there is a scene where a group of impressive warg riders chase the dwarf expedition to Rivendell, the Elven Valley. This scene was filmed near Lake Pukaki in the Mount Cook Mackenzie region. During filming, the entire Hobbit crew stayed on nearby farms. After filming was finished, these farms also opened to visitors. By driving to this area and visiting Braemar Station, you can participate in various farm activities: doing farm work, fishing, cycling, or enjoying a peaceful dinner by the lake.
49
km
2
Mount Cook National Park is located in the southeast of the Southern Alps, adjacent to Westland National Park, Aspiring National Park, and Fiordland National Park. The park features nearly 20 mountains over 3,000 meters and 360 glaciers, including Mount Cook at an elevation of 3,753 meters, which is the highest peak in New Zealand, and the Tasman Glacier, which stretches for 27 kilometers and is the longest glacier in New Zealand.
Day8: Wanaka
2 attraction(s) ·
25 km
1
You can see the magnificent scenery of Wanaka town from Lake Wanaka. There are many activities to participate in along the lake and on the lake. Wanaka is a unique place, vibrant and full of a sports atmosphere. Cycling, water skiing, surfing, hiking, running, off-road motorcycling, winter skiing on skis or snowboards, or simply taking a walk around the beautiful lake... these are all activities you can consider.
25
km
2
This is a wonderful world that both adults and children can enjoy. It's a quirky maze world with many visual tricks that make you see things and then not see them again. Even the restroom has a 3D painting effect that gives you a sense of almost falling into a deep illusion. There is also an interesting Roman toilet here - of course, it can't be used for real. The Hall of Following Faces is very interesting. Make sure to move around and try different angles to see different effects. You will be amazed at its wonders. There is also a large wooden maze here. It may take more than 5 kilometers and over an hour to complete it according to the rules. In addition, the café also has many brain teasers and puzzles that both adults and children can play.
Day9: Queenstown
3 attraction(s) ·
27 km
1
Kawarau Bridge Bungy Center is the birthplace of bungee jumping and the most representative outdoor adventure spot in Queenstown. The center is open to visitors for free, offering free short films about the history of bungee jumping. The famous Kawarau River is located beneath the Kawarau Bridge, and bungee jumpers can choose whether to touch the water and request the staff to adjust the bungee cord to meet different requirements.
25
km
2
Lake Wakatipu, the third largest lake in New Zealand, is shaped like a lightning bolt and offers beautiful scenery. The Dart River flows into the northern end of the lake, while the Kawarau River, originating from Queenstown, merges with it at the lake's outlet. The lake is located in a glacially-formed channel surrounded by high mountains, with Mount Earnslaw being the highest peak at 2819 meters. The towns surrounding the lake include Queenstown, Kingston Village, Glenorchy, and Kinloch. This area is also a popular destination for outdoor activities in New Zealand, and bungee jumping, a world-famous sport, originated here. One of the activities beloved by tourists is taking a cruise on the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw to explore the lake's scenery. In the early 20th century, the Earnslaw primarily transported goods for lakeside farms, but today it is well-preserved and carries tourists to Walter Peak Station to experience the charm of sheep farming. Simply lying by the lake and enjoying the tranquility is already a wonderful experience.
2
km
3
The oldest church in Queenstown was built in 1861 by the first group of overseas immigrants to Queenstown. All the stone used in the construction of the church was transported from Queenstown Bay. The church features a beamless structure, with a delicate pipe organ and intricately painted stained glass windows inside. The cedar pulpit was carved in the 1880s by a Chinese immigrant named Ah Tong.
Day10: Queenstown
3 attraction(s) ·
231 km
3
Walter's Plateau Ranch is located on the picturesque southwest coast of Lake Wakatipu and is one of the most pristine highland ranches in New Zealand. It is a must-visit destination for Queenstown tourists. First, take the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship, the only one still in operation in the southern hemisphere, from Queenstown. After a 40-minute boat ride, you will arrive at Walter Peak Farm on the other side. Enjoy a Western-style barbecue buffet or traditional English afternoon tea in the traditional British villa, and admire the farm performance... Make the most of your limited day and embrace endless experiences.
Day11: Queenstown
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
1
Milford Sound
Known for its towering peaks and wildlife, Milford Sound attracts a large number of travelers. With a height of 1,682 meters, Mitre Peak is one of the highest peaks in the world that rises directly from the seabed. It is named after its resemblance to a bishop's mitre. Bowen Falls, a permanent waterfall within Milford Sound, is 161 meters high. Another permanent waterfall called Sterling Falls is 155 meters high. Travelers can also get up close to seals along the shores of Milford Sound, and if lucky, they might spot penguins, dolphins, and whales. It rains for more than 200 days a year in the fjord. The misty atmosphere adds to the enchanting feeling, allowing visitors to witness the magnificent spectacle of numerous waterfalls cascading from the sky. Travelers can choose to join a day tour of Milford Sound offered by cruise companies, either with a combination of coach and cruise or with a combination of airplane and cruise. The usual itinerary for the coach and cruise tour departs around 7:00 am, with a 30-minute stop at Te Anau for rest. The driver will make stops at the main scenic spots along the Milford Road for photo opportunities. Between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm, passengers will board the cruise for a approximately 2-hour excursion in the fjord. After the cruise, they will return to Queenstown by coach, arriving around 7:30 pm. Most tour companies offer free hotel transfers (please confirm when booking, as some hotels may be exceptions depending on their location). The airplane and cruise tour takes about 4-4.5 hours, and the tour company provides complimentary hotel transfers. Real Journeys and Southern Discoveries are the two best cruise companies in Milford Sound, offering both day tours and airplane+cruise tours. Both companies provide Chinese-language tour information on board.
Day12: Wanaka > Haast > Fox Glacier
4 attraction(s) ·
190 km
1
The trail is not long, covered with fern plants. It is a good place to admire fern plants. The trail is hidden in a dense forest of ferns, moss, and various herbaceous plants, with a strong primitive atmosphere. At the end of the trail, there is a super clear pool of water, which is azure blue on sunny days and emerald green on cloudy days.
97
km
2
Knights Point
Knights Point is a scenic lookout on the road from Haast to Fox Glacier, located by the sea. It is one of the filming locations for the movie "King Kong."
49
km
3
It was originally a deserted beach by National Highway 6, but it has become a wishing platform because tourists from all over the world picked up pebbles and wrote down wishes here. If you want to go, remember to bring a marker pen. The endless beach and the sea are still magnificent.
45
km
4
Fox Glacier Township is located 10 kilometers from Fox Glacier, a World Heritage site. It is a quiet and beautiful tourist town on the West Coast, serving as a gateway to explore Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson. The town has multiple tourist reception centers and exquisite hotels, offering activities such as glacier hiking and helicopter tours. Although there are supermarkets and restaurants, they close early. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Day13: Fox Glacier
2 attraction(s) ·
6 km
1
Matheson Lake is located near Fox Glacier and offers a stunning view of snow-capped mountains reflected in the lake. There are three observation platforms around the lake, with the first one accessible in 15 minutes, the second one in 25 minutes, and the final one, Reflection Island, in 60 minutes. The angle from Reflection Island offers the most iconic view, especially during sunset.
6
km
2
Fox Glacier is a 13-kilometer-long glacier located on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. It was named by Mr. William Fox, the Prime Minister of New Zealand at the time of its discovery in 1872.
Day14: Punakaiki > Greymouth > Christchurch
3 attraction(s) ·
189 km
1
Punakaiki in New Zealand is famous for its incredible pancake rocks and blowholes. The weathered limestone formations look like stacks of thin pancakes, and during high tide, seawater rushes into the caves and spouts out of the waterholes, creating a tremendous roaring sound.
173
km
3
Castle Hill, a must-stop spot on the way from Christchurch to the West Coast, known for its picturesque landscapes featured in the Lord of the Rings movies!
