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Posted: 5/8/2023 | Might eighth, 2023
With its snow-capped mountains, historical glaciers, rolling verdant hills, extremely pleasant locals, and plentiful world-class wine, New Zealand is as fantastic as you’ve heard. In truth, take what you’ve heard and instances it by ten. New Zealand will merely blow your thoughts whenever you go to.
Folks suppose as a result of it’s a small nation, you are able to do all of it in two weeks. That’s not true. There’s so much to do right here. From the north island to the south island, you want lots of time right here to do all of it. You’ll be able to fill months with actions. New Zealand could also be small nevertheless it punches above its weight with issues to do.
However what should you don’t have months? What do you do then? What route do you’re taking? What island must you begin with? The place do you go?
Or what should you do? Then what? The place do you start planning that sort of journey?
I get these questions in my inbox on a regular basis. Having traveled everywhere in the nation a number of instances, I do know the complexities of making an attempt to determine find out how to get to these distant cities and out-of-the-way parks and glaciers.
Whereas buses and trains can take you most locations, one of the best ways to see the nation is by taking a street journey. With your personal set of wheels, you’ll be capable to get deep into the pure landscapes that make this nation so well-known. New Zealand is a street journey nation. It’s one of the best ways to discover.
Beneath are my steered itineraries that may enable you to plan your New Zealand street journey for max effectivity. Whether or not you will have two weeks, one month, and even longer, these will be certain that you see the highlights and get off the crushed path.
Observe: Two weeks is the minimal advisable time for a New Zealand street journey. There’s a lot to see and do right here, but you continue to don’t wish to be rushed or spend all of your time within the automobile. In the event you solely have two weeks, deal with one island.
If you wish to be taught extra about Maori tradition, see the Waitomo glow worms, spend time in New Zealand’s major cities, and luxuriate in enjoyable actions like mendacity on the seaside and sitting in sizzling springs, street journey the North Island.
If you wish to spend your time mountain climbing glaciers, doing journey actions, and absorbing the epic landscapes of New Zealand, head to the South Island to your street journey.
With one month, you possibly can mix the next two-week itineraries to actually be capable to take pleasure in all that each islands have to supply. Greater than a month? There’s nothing you possibly can’t do!
Selecting the Proper Automobile
Earlier than you even plan your route, you want a technique to get round. Street-tripping New Zealand by campervan could be very well-liked, particularly among the many extra budget-conscious traveler, as they function each lodging and transportation. There are 5 major rental businesses:
Costs fluctuate so much. Your every day fee will change relying on the place you decide up the automobile in case you are dropping it off at a special place, how lengthy you’re renting it for, how far upfront you e-book, and whenever you e-book (within the excessive season, costs appear to double!).
If dwelling out of a van for just a few weeks doesn’t sound like your concept of a enjoyable time, merely lease a standard automobile and e-book lodging alongside the best way. To e-book a automobile, take a look at Uncover Vehicles, which searches rental businesses large and small to seek out one of the best offers.
New Zealand Street Journey Itinerary: A Two-Week North Island Route
Days 1–2: Auckland
Auckland is the biggest and most populous metropolis in New Zealand and, opposite to well-liked perception, it’s not the capital (that’s Wellington). Since most flights land right here, spend a few days recovering out of your (doubtless) lengthy journey.
Spend a while hanging out on the Auckland Area, go snorkel on Goat Island, and should you love wine like I do, take a wine tour on Waiheke Island.
For a listing of extra issues to do in Auckland, take a look at my information to the town!
The place to Keep: The Albion – This historic lodging started as a “pub resort” within the nineteenth century. At the moment there’s nonetheless a pleasant outdated tavern within the resort. The rooms are comfy and the place is quiet.
Days 3-4: Bay of Islands
Head to the Bay of Islands on the northern tip of the North Island for just a few days. With mile after mile of seaside and rocky shoreline surrounding the bay (which accommodates 144 islands), this space has a number of the greatest alternatives for dolphin and whale watching, kayaking, swimming, and boating. The Bay of Islands can also be house to what I believe are a number of the greatest seashores within the nation.
When you’re right here you possibly can go to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (some of the essential historic websites within the nation), discover Cape Reinga (the northernmost level of New Zealand), and see wild dolphins on a boat tour.
For a listing of extra issues to do in Bay of Islands, take a look at my full information!
The place to Keep: Haka Lodge – Positioned in Paihia, Haka Lodge has lots of widespread areas, a big kitchen, and nice views over the harbor. Every part is tremendous clear and the beds are comfy. It’s a superb place to satisfy individuals.
Day 5: Hobbiton
Visiting the Hobbiton film set featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit motion pictures is well one in all New Zealand’s most well-known actions and a should for followers of the movies and books. Even should you’re not a superfan, it’s attention-grabbing to see the film magic and go behind the scenes on this distinctive setting.
To see Hobbiton, you’ll need to take a tour that begins with a drive by means of the proprietor’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm, providing epic views over the Kaimai Vary. From right here, you possibly can discover Bag Finish, wander across the hobbit holes, and go to the Inexperienced Dragon Inn. Excursions begin at 89 NZD.
The place to Keep: Cosy Nation Keep B&B – This can be a cute bed-and-breakfast positioned in Matamata only a few miles from Hobbiton. The hosts are implausible, there’s complimentary breakfast, and the property is quiet and tranquil, with roaming cats and goats for added environment.
Days 6–7: Rotorua
It’s only one hour from Hobbiton to Rotorua, some of the well-liked vacationer locations on the North Island. The title comes from the unique Maori “Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe,” that means “second lake,” because it was the second lake that Maori chief Ihenga found within the space.
The Maori had been the unique inhabitants of New Zealand, having arrived from Polynesia between 1320 and 1350. That is one of the best space to find out about Maori historical past and tradition. Don’t miss seeing a Maori cultural present when you’re right here (the Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Expertise is the one I attended).
The area can also be recognized for its geothermal exercise, and the dynamic panorama makes for thrilling nature walks, journeys to smelly sulfuric geysers, and soaks in luxurious spas with water from the new springs.
The place to Keep: Rock Strong Backpackers – This can be a centrally positioned hostel with an expansive array of services, together with a cinema, a bar, a communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall.
Day 8: Waitomo
Waitomo is thought for its worms — glowworms, that’s (spoiler alert: they’re truly fly larvae that emit a bioluminescent glow). Positively one of many coolest locations I visited in New Zealand, the Waitomo glowworm cave could also be very touristy nevertheless it’s merely breathtaking and in contrast to something you’ve ever seen.
For a whole listing of issues to do in Waitomo, take a look at my information in town.
The place to Keep: Juno Corridor – Near the glowworm caves, Juno Corridor has a swimming pool and tennis court docket on-site. There’s a big kitchen in addition to an out of doors grill for barbecuing.
Days 9-10: Taupo
Taupo sits on the shores of Lake Taupo and is a part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, an space that has had excessive volcanic exercise for the previous two million years. Taupo has tons of unimaginable hikes, a lot of boating excursions, charming native markets, and gorgeous nature. Consider it like a quieter model of Queenstown (the South Island’s journey capita)l.
It’s additionally one in all one of the best locations to go skydiving in New Zealand due to the views and clear skies (although I didn’t do that whereas I used to be there).
I beloved the small-town really feel of Taupo, sitting by the lake, and having the ability to take action many hikes. I might have stayed right here for weeks.
For a listing of extra issues to do in Taupo, take a look at my information!
The place to Keep: Finlay Jack’s has an enormous kitchen, an enormous widespread room, a spacious patio with BBQs, enjoyable and welcoming workers, bike leases, and a brilliant pleasant hostel canine. Every part within the hostel is up to date, with new, fashionable pod-style beds so you will get a terrific evening’s sleep. Briefly, all the pieces a backpacker or finances traveler would need from a hostel.
Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Trekking by means of this otherworldly, red-colored atmosphere of volcanoes and sulfur was one of many highlights of my time in New Zealand. One of many Nice Walks of New Zealand and sometimes thought-about the most effective day hikes on the earth, that is an epic 19-kilometer (12-mile) trek that takes a full day to finish (most individuals take 6-9 hours, relying in your health stage).
As you wind your manner by means of Tongariro Nationwide Park, you’ll stroll by means of volcanic terrain (together with the place Mordor in Lord of the Rings was filmed), previous excessive peaks and sulfur lakes, and finish the day in a dense forest. It’s simple in components (the start and finish) and steep in others (particularly the portion after “Mount Doom”), so that you’ll get a superb mixture of problem ranges.
You’ll want to deliver water, sunscreen, a hat, rest room paper, and a sweater or jacket (the climate can change quickly). Anticipate to pay round 40 NZD per particular person for a round-trip shuttle to and from the path or 280 NZD for a full-day guided hike.
The place to Keep: Nationwide Park Alpine Lodge – Positioned in Nationwide Park Village (one of the best place to remain if doing the trek), this lodge options budget-friendly non-public rooms, a communal kitchen and customary space (with a comfortable fire for chilly nights!), and a useful workers.
In any other case, you possibly can keep in Taupo, which is the place individuals often base themselves after they do that trek.
Days 12–14: Wellington
Wellington is my favourite metropolis in the whole nation. It’s an artsy, eclectic place, boasting tons of cultural actions, an unimaginable nightlife, a number of the greatest meals within the nation, tons of murals, world-class artwork reveals, insightful museums, and a lovely harbor (which is greatest seen from Mount Victoria, which overlooks the whole metropolis).
You’ll want to go to Te Papa (New Zealand’s nationwide museum), trip the cable automobile to the Cable Automobile Museum, and tour Weta Workshop (an Academy Award–profitable props and particular results studio).
For a listing of extra issues to do in Wellington, take a look at my detailed information to the town.
The place to Keep: The Dwellington – Greater than half the Dwellington is widespread house, with a video games room, a cinema room (with comfortable seats!), dwelling rooms, outside patios, and even tennis and squash courts. The workers additionally actually goes out of their technique to be sure to really feel welcome.
In the event you’ve solely bought two weeks and are ending your street journey in Wellington, you possibly can fly out of the airport right here to wherever you want to go subsequent. You probably have extra time, you’ll take the automobile ferry (round 3.5 hours) to Picton on the South Island to proceed your journey (during which case, observe the next two-week South Island itinerary, however in reverse).
New Zealand Street Journey Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route
In the event you select the South Island to your two-week street journey, begin in Queenstown. Even when your worldwide flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you possibly can simply get an inexpensive flight to Queenstown. Queenstown additionally has direct flights to many main cities in Australia in case your journey to New Zealand is a component of a bigger journey in Oceania.
Days 1-3: Queenstown
Queenstown is a small, picturesque city overlooking Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the attractive peaks of the Remarkables mountain vary. It has a feisty and outdoorsy power to it, with slender streets and pedestrian lanes full of retailers and eating places.
Generally known as “the journey capital of New Zealand” (it’s the launching pad for each form of journey exercise you possibly can consider), Queenstown lives as much as the hype. Despite the fact that it has turn into vastly well-liked, I can not categorical my love of Queenstown sufficient. I really like sitting by the lake, watching the sundown with a bottle of wine, and mountain climbing the close by trails.
Discover close by vineyards, benefit from the waters of Lake Wakatipu, bungy leap, zipline, rafting, or skydiving. There’s so much to do right here.
For a listing of extra issues to do in Queenstown, take a look at my detailed metropolis information.
The place to Keep: Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms have balconies, the showers have prodigious water strain, and the pillows are thick. There are actions each evening and a free dinner and quiz evening on Sunday. Total, it is a good spot to remain.
Days 4-6: Fiordland
The Fiordland area is likely one of the nation’s most scenic and distant (and as such, additionally house to quite a few Lord of the Rings movie places). Given its gigantic mountains, deep lakes, swelling rivers, untamed forests, and resplendent fjords (lengthy, slender inlets banked by steep cliffs, created by glaciers), the federal government has largely made the land off-limits to guard these pure sources.
Milford Sound is a tremendous fjord that’s greatest recognized for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You’ll be able to stroll the wooded path alongside the sandy shore for excellent views of the height, or take the Chasm Stroll on the Cleddau River to get near highly effective waterfalls.
The fjord itself is house to seal and penguin colonies. You’ll be able to usually see pods of dolphins frolicking within the waters too. Discover by boat and take a look at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see uncommon black coral and different underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the one firm doing cruises that embrace the Underwater Observatory. Cruises begin from 129 NZD.
Whereas much less well-known than Milford, Uncertain Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord within the nation. You’ll be able to solely get to Uncertain by way of boat. A wilderness cruise of Uncertain Sound prices 199 NZD.
The place to Keep: Milford Sound Lodge – That is fairly actually the one place to remain inside about 50 kilometers (31 miles). It’s not low-cost, however the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is scrumptious, and the up to date rooms are cozy but fashionable. In any other case, you probably have a automobile, you possibly can keep within the closest city, Te Anau the place you’ll discover cheaper lodging.
Days 7-8: Wanaka
Wanaka is a ski and summer time resort city framed by snowcapped mountains. As close by Queenstown has turn into overcrowded lately, journey to Wanaka has exploded and this sleepy however actually cool little city has turn into well-liked with backpackers and outside fanatics, particularly skiers and boaters. There’s not a ton to do right here past having fun with the outside. Most individuals come right here for just a few nights to hike, loosen up, and transfer on.
For a listing of extra issues to do in Wanaka, take a look at my detailed metropolis information.
The place to Keep: Mountain View Backpackers – This hostel has an enormous outside house with a grill, house to lie within the solar, and an enormous desk to congregate round (there have been many satisfying nights spent consuming wine outdoor).
Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef is a tiny city that’s primarily used as a jumping-off level for seeing the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier.
Mountain climbing the glaciers right here is an unforgettable expertise. Sadly, as a result of they’ve receded and are melting shortly on account of local weather change, the caves and walks have been shut down. Now, the one technique to trek on the glaciers is by way of heli-hike (an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/mountain climbing expertise). These are costly (500 NZD), however the helicopter trip, trekking, and expertise as an entire are well worth the value in my view.
Conversely, you possibly can simply hike to the glacier face and take photographs from a distance. There are tons of viewing factors (and also you’ll see photographs of simply how far the glaciers have receded in over time).
The place to Keep: Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Only a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging presents free selfmade soup each evening, free breakfast (selfmade waffles and pancakes!), two communal kitchens, and a sizzling tub.
Days 10–11: Abel Tasman Nationwide Park
Drive simply six hours north of glacial Franz Josef and also you’ll be in beachy Abel Tasman Nationwide Park. With its turquoise water, dense jungles, and heat temperatures, this park makes you are feeling such as you’re within the tropics fairly than New Zealand. It covers over 23,876 hectares (59,000 acres), that means there are lots of single and multi-day hikes (together with the 3-5-day Abel Tasman Coast Observe, one of many Nice Walks of New Zealand).
The easiest way to see the park is by kayak, so you possibly can discover the little coves and seashores that actually make the world particular. Full-day leases begin at round 85 NZD, or you possibly can be part of a guided kayaking tour beginning at 130 NZD. You too can take a scenic cruise across the park for 79 NZD.
The place to Keep: Marahau Seaside Camp – Gives each dormitories and small non-public cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are additionally tent and campervan websites if you wish to get monetary savings.
From right here, decide your final cease: both drive onwards to Christchurch and finish there or take the ferry over the Wellington (an journey in and of itself!) and finish there. Both manner, you’ll be capable to catch an inexpensive and fast flight again to Auckland to your worldwide flight house.
In the event you’re heading to Christchurch, maintain studying. In the event you’d like to go to Wellington, scroll again up and observe the ideas within the North Island itinerary part.
Days 12-14: Christchurch
Although severely broken by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 (over 185 individuals had been killed and three,000 buildings had been broken), Christchurch has rebounded and advanced right into a brand-new metropolis. This revival has instilled a newfound sense of hope and vibrancy, and led to extra funky bars and markets, and new eating places, retailers, and reveals. The locals have labored arduous to rebuild, and there’s a group spirit right here that actually shines. I really like the place Christchurch goes.
Whereas there’s not so much “to do” per se, the vibe right here is de facto relaxed, and it’s value not speeding by means of should you aren’t brief on time. You’ll want to trip the gondola, go to the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake Metropolis (a novel and interactive museum that recounts private tales from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).
For a listing of extra issues to do in Christchurch, take a look at my metropolis information.
The place to Keep: Urbanz – That is an superior hostel positioned in downtown Christchurch with pleasant workers and an enormous kitchen. There’s additionally a hostel bar, a pool desk, quick Wi-Fi, laundry, motion pictures, and comfortable couches, in addition to a parking zone.
If you want to get again to Queenstown, it’s a 6 hour drive from right here. Alternatively, you possibly can fly to Auckland. The flight is simply over an hour and tickets may be discovered for as little as 65 NZD should you e-book upfront.
New Zealand Street Journey Itinerary: One Month
You’ve bought longer to discover New Zealand, nice! You’ll doubtless fly into Auckland, and make your manner south by means of the North after which South Island following the above itineraries. You’ll be able to take your time, linger longer, go to extra locations, and shift your plans should you really feel pulled in a sure path.
Once more, these are simply advisable itineraries — I encourage you to adapt as wanted!
Issues to Keep in mind When Street-Tripping New Zealand
That can assist you profit from your street journey, please bear in mind the next guidelines:
- Site visitors flows on the left right here (not the fitting, like within the US or Canada).
- You will need to all the time park your automobile within the path that visitors goes (or danger a nice).
- There are many pull-off factors for taking photographs — use them as a substitute of stopping at a random spot alongside the aspect of the street, which may be fairly harmful given how tight the roads are right here.
- Roads listed below are winding, so keep in mind that it’d take longer than you count on to cowl a selected distance.
- So long as your present and legitimate driver’s license is in English, you don’t want an Worldwide Driver’s Allow.
- In the event you’re touring by campervan, use the CamperMate app to seek out close by campsites, fuel stations, and dump stations.
New Zealand is an unforgettable nation, loaded with epic landscapes, pleasant Kiwis, and a wealthy tradition. On account of its distant location, visiting is often a once-in-a-lifetime journey for many vacationers. Taking a street journey is one of the best ways to profit from your time right here, tailoring your itinerary to your personal preferences and New Zealand bucket listing.
Want a rental automobile to your epic journey? use the widget beneath to seek out one of the best offers!
Guide Your Journey to New Zealand: Logistical Ideas and Methods
Guide Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to discover a low-cost flight. They’re my favourite search engine as a result of they search web sites and airways across the globe so that you all the time know no stone is left unturned!
Guide Your Lodging
You’ll be able to e-book your hostel with Hostelworld as they’ve the most important stock and greatest offers. If you wish to keep someplace aside from a hostel, use Reserving.com as they constantly return the most cost effective charges for guesthouses and low-cost accommodations.
In the event you’re in search of particular locations to remain, here’s a full listing of my favourite hostels in New Zealand.
Don’t Neglect Journey Insurance coverage
Journey insurance coverage will shield you in opposition to sickness, harm, theft, and cancellations. It’s complete safety in case something goes unsuitable. I by no means go on a visit with out it as I’ve had to make use of it many instances up to now. My favourite corporations that provide one of the best service and worth are:
Searching for the Greatest Firms to Save Cash With?
Try my useful resource web page for one of the best corporations to make use of whenever you journey. I listing all those I take advantage of to save cash once I’m on the street. They’ll prevent cash whenever you journey too.
Need Extra Info on New Zealand?
You’ll want to go to our strong vacation spot information on New Zealand for much more planning suggestions!
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