12-Day In-Depth Winter New Zealand South and North Island Travel Guide
12 cities |
45 attraction(s) |
total distance 2951
km
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day10
Day11
Day12
Day1: Christchurch
3 attraction(s) ·
5 km
1
Christchurch has a 300,000 square meter green land located by the Avon River, which is the most pleasant place in the city. Over ten thousand species of plants display a colorful array of colors in different seasons, bringing endless surprises to visitors. Whether it's the elderly, children, couples, or friends, taking a stroll in the botanical garden or enjoying a cup of coffee in the cafe is very pleasant. The visitor information center is located between the botanical garden and the Canterbury Museum and provides timely answers to any visitor questions. Come here and experience the atmosphere of the garden city!
2
km
2
The cardboard cathedral in Christchurch, New Zealand is a transitional Anglican church that was opened in August 2013. It was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, who won the Pritzker Prize in 2014, and can accommodate 700 people. The design features unique materials and structures, including 60cm (24-inch) diameter cardboard tubes, wood, and steel. The altar stands at 21 meters (69 feet) high, and the roof is made of polycarbonates and eight shipping containers. This building is an excellent example of modern architecture that attracts a large number of visitors.
3
km
Day2: Christchurch > Lake Tekapo
4 attraction(s) ·
185 km
2
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
3
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.
3
km
4
John's Mountain Observatory is renowned for its stunning scenery and convenient location. It's just a 15-minute drive from Lake Tikapoo, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
Day3: Lake Tekapo > Mount Cook Village > South Island > Mount Cook National Park
5 attraction(s) ·
97 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.
48
km
2
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.
20
km
3
This 5-km. walking track in Mount Cook National Park leads to Hooker Lake & offers sweeping views.
15
km
4
The longest glacier in New Zealand is called Tasman Glacier, which is 27 kilometers long. Tourists can approach the glacier through roads and hiking trails.
16
km
Day4: Mount Cook Village > Wanaka > South Island
4 attraction(s) ·
156 km
2
From the shore of Lake Wanaka, magnificent views of the town of Wanaka can be enjoyed, and there are a variety of activities to choose from on the lake and along its banks. Wanaka is a unique place full of vitality and a sporty atmosphere, where visitors can try cycling, water skiing, surfing, mountain climbing, running, off-road motorbiking, winter snowboarding or skiing, or simply stroll along the beautiful lake and experience the natural scenery here.
19
km
3
A solitary, crooked crack willow tree sits alone on Lake Wanaka, backdropped by the Southern Alps.
19
km
4
Lessons & food are available at this ski resort known for its expert-level runs & scenic views.
Day5: South Island > Queenstown
6 attraction(s) ·
59 km
3
Attraction featuring a gondola to a panoramic restaurant/bar, hiking trails & a luge ride down.
1
km
5
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
Day6: Queenstown > South Island
6 attraction(s) ·
390 km
3
Skiing & snowboarding mountain with varied trails & terrain parks, plus cafes & an on-mountain bar.
16
km
4
Resort featuring skiing & sledding for all ages, plus restaurants, a shop with equipment & more.
200
km
5
7.5-mi.-long glacier accessible by an 8-hour hike or by helicopter for guided tours at the top.
15
km
Day7: Dunedin
4 attraction(s) ·
14 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 university, founded in 1869, is one of the oldest in New Zealand. The clock tower at the Registrar's office is an iconic building in Dunedin, with its architecture modeled after the main building at the University of Glasgow. The use of dark basalt and light Oamaru stone creates a strong color contrast. The university is open to visitors and guided tours are available to showcase its beautiful campus and rich history.
3
km
3
Every visitor to Dunedin will head to this residential street with a slope of about 19 degrees. For drivers with strong skills and responsive brakes, they can speed down the slope at the top like on a rollercoaster. However, most visitors choose to hike up and take interesting photos on the way. In February, the Gutbuster race is held here and in July, the Cadbury World chocolate factory rolls down 10,000 chocolate candies from the top of the slope for visitors to enjoy for free - both fun and delicious.
10
km
Day8: Oamaru
3 attraction(s) ·
31 km
1
Attraction with a grandstand where visitors can observe blue penguins in the wild.
2
km
3
Moeraki boulders is a famous attraction located between Oamaru and Dunedin in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated 38 kilometers away from Oamaru and takes about half an hour by car. Scientists explain that these giant stones were formed 650,000 years ago from concretions of mudstone. Calcium and carbonate slowly crystallized around charged particles, resulting in these large boulders. The process of formation is similar to that of pearls, which takes about 4 million years. These boulders are embedded in mudstone that rose from the seabed about 15 million years ago. The mudstone is constantly eroded by waves, wind and rain, gradually excavating each boulder. These variously shaped boulders, resembling turtle shells or cracked eggs, can be arranged into interesting shapes, making them a great subject for photography.
Day9: Auckland > Rotorua
3 attraction(s) ·
251 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.
220
km
2
Pools of colourful bubbling water are heated by volcanoes at this oft-visited natural attraction.
31
km
3
Traditional Maori village offering a guided bush walk, cultural performances & a ground-cooked meal.
Day10: Rotorua > Taupo
4 attraction(s) ·
154 km
2
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
3
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.
59
km
4
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.
Day11: Auckland
4 attraction(s) ·
9 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.
3
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.
1
km
3
Located in the heart of Auckland city, the historic Auckland Central Park is a delightful place to visit. The entire park is covered in lush green grass, filled with fragrant flowers, and crisscrossed with walking paths. One of the main highlights of the park is the duck pond, where you can often see mother ducks leading their little ones to play by the pond. Please do not feed the ducks, but you can provide food for them when they are on the grass. Additionally, the Auckland Museum is situated at the highest point of the park, housing many precious artifacts. Every day, the museum also showcases performances of Maori culture, which is highly recommended to visit. Only a 5-minute drive from the city center, Auckland Central Park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
6
km
4
Mission Bay, located near downtown Auckland, is one of the locals' favorite beaches. Visitors can experience the locals' way of life there. When the weather is good, people go to the beach to sunbathe and sometimes get food stolen by seagulls. The highly recommended Movenpick ice cream here, especially the freshly baked Waffle Cone, is delicious according to the author.
Day12: Auckland
2 attraction(s) ·
6 km
