Me and my Fiance have been planning a holiday travelling round NZ for 5 weeks, but due to work commitments have had to cut it down to four weeks. We are planning to fly into Auckland and out of Christchurch, and would be grateful of any recommendations of places to go, sights to see or things to do. We would like to cover as much of the North and South islands as we can, but due to time restrictions won't be able to see everything. We are going to hire a camper so are able to go off the beaten track.
Look forward to hearing from you!
Reply to this I would recommend, from Auckland, going up north on State Highway One until you get to Whangarei, turning left, driving to Dargaville, and continuing up the highway through the Waipoua Forest and up to Cape Reinga, which is always worth a visit (bring a raincoat but not an umbrella, unless you feel like flying to Indonesia). On the way back down South, the Bay of Islands is a nice place to spend a day or two.
Be careful with your camper in the Waipoua Forest if you do go that way, because the road's very narrow and windy. It's well maintained, though, because it's part of a State Highway. Nice bushwalks to see kauri trees, as well.
The Bay of Islands is stunning but on the west coast there are nice beaches as well - Bailey's Beach, north of Dargaville, is nice, and you'll probably get to see 90 Mile Beach as well, it's a bit hard to miss.
South of Auckland I can't help you so much, but if you're in the region, check out the Bay of Plenty. The Waitomo Caves are also memorable, and Rotorua's rather unique.
Reply to this We drove around NZ for about 6 weeks - and we found the south Island far nicer - and one of the highlights was Milford and doubtful sounds amazing scenery. It is a bit out of the way but worth the effort - of course depends on what your're after.
Reply to this Hey.
I agree with cosmicpanda. Definately go to Cape Reinga. And on way back down you can't go past the Bay of Islands, its beautiful. Coromandel is gorgeous (these places have to best beaches!!) Auckland City is expensive at times but still quite a cool place to visit. East Coast and Bay of Plenty is beautiful also. Wellington is beautiful, fun vibrant city with lots to do.
South Island: Queen Charlotte sounds are great, you can go on a ferry/water Taxi for between $20-60pp and be shown around all the lovely coves and bays. Some companies do walks/picnics etc.
Queenstown: Expensive but the Adrenalin Capitol of NZ!!! Do the bungy and all those crazy things.
Malborough Sounds: BEAUTIFUL!!!!!! DON't MISS IT!
And if you get to go to Stewart Island make sure you do. While out of the way (need to ferry or fly) its lovely, small community and great atmosphere.
Don't worry about missing things, you will see plenty of beautiful sites and meet friendly people (Us Kiwis are!!)
What time of year are you coming over???
Perhaps something fun to do is go to www.aatravel.co.nz and check out the 101 things to do!!
ENJOY!!!
Reply to this Hey try www.bookpaystay.com for great accommodation deals around the country.
You can save heaps and then use the rental van for the remote places but consider that most people who have a van spend every 3rd night in a motel or backpackers. As carefully selected accommodation and a small 1500cc rental car will cost you less than a camper i would consider this option.
I agree the South Island is more scenic and less populated than the north Island so i would look at spending a bit more time there and maybe stopover in Rotorua/Taupo on way down but take east coast route to wellington.
Reply to this Don't underestimate the North Island - it is beautiful. If you enjoy a good trek you MUST do the Tongariro crossing - it is seriously worth the effort.
The camper is a great way of getting about and gives you flexibility to stay longer in the places you like and less in the places you dont. It's also a great way of getting off the main tourist trail. I spent every night in mine and I don't know anyone who has had a van and then stayed in motels, etc!
Good luck and enjoy! I loved NZ so much that I am moving there in 2 weeks!
Reply to this Thanks for all the ideas, we now have just under two weeks until we fly out and cannot wait!
:-)
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