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Une semaine en Zélande, entre terre et mer

Passer une semaine en Zélande, c’est goûter à la liberté de plages immenses bordées de dunes sauvages, savourer la beauté de ces petits villages typiques, déguster les produits de la mer – la région est fort réputée pour ses moules et son homard notamment.

Nous avions choisi Breezand , dans la localité de Vrouwenpolder, comme point de chute, plus précisément le Strandhotel Duinoord . L’emplacement est idéal, juste à côté d’un sentier qui mène à travers dunes jusqu’à la plage. L’établissement, tout récent, offre le confort moderne et une déco soignée et lumineuse. Nous avons posé nos valises avant de découvrir le quartier.

Le midi, nous avions pris un petit encas au coeur de Vrouwenpolder : quelques dizaines de maisons alignées dans la rue principale, avec une boulangerie qui fait aussi magasin de plage, un fleuriste qui propose de la déco, une demi-douzaine de cafés et restaurants, deux trois boutiques et, bien sûr, un loueur de cycles. Nous avons avalé une soupe à l’oignon et des croquettes aux crevettes à l’hôtel-café-restaurant De Boekanier .

L’après-midi, nous avons profité du soleil pour entamer une grande balade sur la plage. Le vent est à décorner les boeufs, c’est vivifiant en diable ! Côté Breezand, il y a un peu plus de monde, avec un pavillon (un troquet sur le sable), une promenade de planches, des cabines, mais dès que l’on s’éloigne un peu, c’est une plage à perte de vue qui s’offre au regard. On irait jusqu’au bout du monde… si le vent n’était pas de face.

Nous avions réservé notre faim pour le soir en vue d’un dîner à la Brasserie Dune , chic et design, qui nous avait tapé dans l’oeil, au rez-de-chaussée de l’autre bel hôtel de la petite station, le Duinhotel Breezand. Nous n’avons pas été déçus: la déco est lumineuse et la carte pas trop longue. La Brasserie Dune propose un bel assortiment de plats locaux ou plus exotiques. Nous avons succombé, bien entendu, aux bitterballen (ces petites boulettes servies en apéro aux Pays-Bas comme amuse-gueule), avant de savourer des soles et des moules en version asiatique.

Lundi matin, nous avons mis le cap tout au nord, sur Ouddorp , principale localité de l’île de Goeree-Overflakkee. On en fait vite le tour… mais pas trop quand même, le temps d’admirer les lieux: les maisons anciennes ont été préservées pour la plupart, bordées de beaux jardins. On aime les détailler. Les rues se déploient depuis le centre du village, une placette au milieu de laquelle trône une belle église, que seul un charmant moulin vient concurrencer à l’horizon. Le village ne manque pas d’atouts, avec de jolies boutiques, un bon nombre de cafés et restaurants fort sympathiques. Nous avons repéré aussi un joli B&B, De Meulestee , avec évidemment le moulin pour emblème.

En fin de matinée, nous avons rejoint Zierikzee , magnifique cité de pêcheurs sur l’île de Schouwen-Duiveland. Nous avions une faim de loup (de mer) et une adresse en tête, la Brasserie Maritime . Les lieux sont réputés notamment pour le homard de l’Oosterschelde. Coup de chance: nous étions à la bonne saison pour le déguster – il se consomme de fin mars à mi-juillet. Nous avons succombé à un menu tout homard: servi en bisque, puis grillé. C’est juste parfait. Nous avons dégusté le dessert (une crème brûlée tout aussi réussie) sous la pluie, à l’abri d’une marquise, sur la terrasse.

Nous avons eu un vrai coup de coeur pour Zierikzee: s’il y a beaucoup de touristes certains jours, on peut vite s’échapper dans les petites ruelles anciennes. Comme souvent aux Pays-Bas, le village est joliment fleuri. Il faut dire que la cité est florissante: le commerce s’y porte bien. On y a trouvé un joli choix de magasins: vêtements, design, brocante, concept-store. Mention spéciale pour le Theetap : le design se décline ici en petits objets déco, vaisselle, mobilier. C’est en réalité un boutique-B&B dont nous avons pu voir une chambre – superbe. Voilà une autre belle adresse à retenir pour séjourner en Zélande !

Avant de quitter l’île de Schouwen-Duiveland, on fait un petit saut à Renesse , où nous avions repéré deux endroits pour loger. Les deux établissements sont bien situés, à deux pas du centre: le Badhotel , petit hôtel de mer, fort soigné, et un B&B, Leo BBB , où le vélo est roi ou du moins petite reine. La localité ne manque pas de charme, avec ses longues artères arborées où se cachent de belles villas et son centre, le Lange Reke, qui encercle une église. Hogezoom, la rue la plus commerçante, déborde de monde. Nous fuyons.

Aller d’une île (ou presqu’île comme celle de Walcheren, où se situe Vrouwenpolder) à l’autre permet de mesurer les travaux gigantesques menés par les Pays-Bas pour préserver leurs terres – ces fameux travaux du Delta entrepris après la dramatique inondation de 1953. Dans une rue de Zierikzee, on voit jusqu’où l’eau est montée, à savoir au 1er étage des maisons. On comprend pourquoi la catastrophe a emporté tant de vie (près de 1.800 victimes).

On est revenu par l’Oosterscheldekering, cet impressionnant barrage de l’Escaut oriental qui protège désormais la Zélande des assauts de la mer.  Long de 9 kilomètres entre Schouwen-Duiveland et l’île de Beveland-Noord, c’est le plus important ouvrage du Plan Delta. La 8e merveille du monde aux yeux des Hollandais. Respect.

Nous avons terminé la journée par une pointe à Dombourg , station balnéaire la plus connue de Walcheren et certainement la plus courue, en particulier par les touristes allemands. Le village a beaucoup de charme, dont sa rue principale à l’ombre des arbres qui protègent de belles façades. La promenade au sommet de la dune offre un point de vue magnifique sur la mer.

Mardi matin nous avions envie de nature. On a suivi un sentier dans l’arrière-pays et longé une réserve naturelle, Oranjezon . La nature sauvage s’y déploie librement – pour pénétrer en ces lieux, il faut s’enregistrer et payer un droit de visite. Nous le ferons assurément lors d’un prochain séjour. Nous avons plutôt mis le cap sur la plage d’Oostkapelle : on suit un long sentier qui traverse des dunes et la réserve naturelle, avant de déboucher sur le bord de mer. Quel merveilleux cheminement ! On se promène le long de l’eau, pieds nus dans les vagues.

Le midi, nous avons visité Oostkapelle . Tous ces petits villages de Zélande affichent au premier regard la même architecture, la même église au milieu, sans vraiment de relief pour les distinguer. Mais chacun adopte une forme, une géographie, une atmosphère différente. A Oostkapelle, la rue principale esquisse un S pour contourner l’église, des terrasses accueillent les estivants, des commerces de bouche attirent le chaland. Tout cela nous donne faim. On déjeune sur le pouce au Pannekoekenbakker , crêperie version hollandaise. C’est sans façon et roboratif. On peut aller contre le vent après !

L’après-midi, justement, on marche le long de la plage jusqu’à plus soif, avant de profiter un peu de l’hôtel – ah oui, se débarrasser du sable dans les chaussures et sur les vêtements. Nous avons choisi de passer la soirée à Veere , fort jolie petite cité au bord du Veerse Meer.

La localité a prospéré autrefois dans le commerce de laine importée d’Écosse. Il en reste de magnifiques bâtisses. De beaux commerces s’articulent autour du marché, le Markt, une belle place allongée à l’ombre d’arbres majestueux. C’est agréable de se promener dans les ruelles joliment fleuries, où l’on débouche parfois sur des petits magasins improbables de brocante ou de bonbons (à deux pas de la Groote Kerk).

Ce qui fait l’attrait de Veere, c’est aussi sa marina, où de beaux voiliers taquinent les passants. Pour le dîner, nous avions choisi une table offrant une vue imprenable sur ce port et sur la ville. C’est même l’une des plus belles terrasses du pays – l’établissement a été primé à ce titre. De Werf présente une carte de brasserie chic. Pour allier les produits de région et un peu zeste d’exotisme, nous cédons à la gourmandise d’une paëlla zélandaise. Le soleil d’Espagne est un peu loin, mais les fruits de mer sont parfaits.

Le mercredi, une météo plutôt maussade nous attendait. C’était le jour parfait pour se rendre en ville. Cap sur Middelburg, principale cité sur Walcheren et capitale historique de la Zélande. Le plan de la ville traduit le passé stratégique des lieux. Ses canaux qui ceinturent le cœur de Middelburg suivent les contours des anciens remparts. On se gare le long d’un de ces canaux.

Les rues commerçantes principales, à commencer par Lange Delft, forment un long cercle au cœur de Middelburg, à l’instar du Ring à Vienne – mais en moins impérial tout de même. Il y a beaucoup de monde : c’est agréable de suivre cette promenade circulaire pour s’en échapper vite, dans toutes les petites rues perpendiculaires. On y trouve les brocantes, antiquaires, petits concepts stores.

Un petit coup de cœur pour la Sint-Jansstraat et son Vismarkt, une jolie place qui se prêterait bien à une pause estivale en terrasse… si la météo n’était pas aussi chagrine. Nous avons flashé sur le restaurant Basalt et réservé une place : bien nous en a pris. A midi, le petit établissement est vite rempli. La déco est accueillante, mais la bonne surprise vient de la table : nous nous y sommes régalés. Les poissons y sont parfaitement cuits, les sauces savoureuses, les accompagnements gourmands. Nous reviendrons assurément au Basalt.

Jeudi, nous avons vécu une journée moitié côté terre, moitié côté mer. Le matin, nous avons fait un tour à Goes , ville sur la presqu’île de Beveland-du-Sud. La cité bien vivante ne manque pas de charme, à commencer par le port médieval autour duquel s’ancrent de belles façades. Il n’y a pas un anneau vide sur la marina: cela doit être bien sympa d’amarrer son voilier ici.

Le long des quais, nous avons été charmés, bien entendu, par la Huis De Baerse , joli concept store où une spectaculaire tête enturbannée sert d’enseigne, attirant le regard de loin. On entre dans une caverne d’Ali Baba, remplie d’objets déco et de petits trésors variés. Difficile d’en sortir les mains vides : on a craqué pour quelques jolies cartes et une fouta rayée toute douce.

Nous avons déjeuné à la brasserie Katoen , restaurant de l’hôtel du même nom. C’est moderne, design, très vivant. A midi, comme souvent aux Pays-Bas, le restaurant propose une petite carte, avec aussi des salades, des sandwiches… parfait pour une petite fringale. C’est agréable de se poser là. Des croquettes aux crevettes avec du pain ont suffi à notre bonheur.

L’après-midi, nous avons emprunté le spectaculaire pont de Zélande pour rejoindre l’île de Schouwen-Duiveland où nous voulions explorer la partie ouest. Ce pont offre une envolée au-dessus de la mer, les voiliers filant plus bas. Le panneau Burgh-Haamstede nous conduit dans cette charmante localité, dont la rue principale est bordée d’arbres gigantesques – par temps de canicule, il doit être bien agréable de se réfugier dessous. Cela fait un bel objectif de promenade à vélo.

Le village est aussi rehaussé par la présence d’un beau château, construit sur l’emplacement . C’est bien beau, mais nous avions un autre but en tête : le phare de New-Haamstede et la plage qui le jouxte. Lors de notre visite, il était couvert d’échafaudages. On s’est garé là, direction la mer.

Ici aussi, on serpente sur un joli cordon de dunes pour déboucher sur une plage battue par le vent le jour de notre visite. On s’est réfugié au pavillon De Strandloper , un des plus beaux de la région, avec une ambiance de chalet en montagne. Il ne manquait plus qu’un vin chaud.

Nous avons tellement aimé Zierikzee que nous n’avons pas pu résister à la tentation d’y retourner, le vendredi. On dit de la météo en Bretagne qu’il y fait beau plusieurs fois par jour. Même constat en Zélande. Nous sommes arrivés le matin avec un ciel bas et lourd de nuages. Nous avons parcouru les rues commerçantes, mettant à profit chaque averse pour nous réfugier dans les boutiques, qui un brocanteur, qui un magasin de décoration, qui un concept-store. La carte de crédit a quelque peu chauffé.

Le midi, nous avons mis le cap sur la brasserie De Kaoie , située le long des quais, de l’autre côté du pont d’Oude Haven, un établissement fréquenté par les locaux. Une tablée de jeunes cyclistes nous voisine – la plupart ont été copieusement arrosés par les pluies du matin, leurs combinaisons encore détrempées. Ils avalent des bières et de grands plateaux de fromages et de saucisson. Nous nous sommes rabattus sur des moules, des « Gebakken Mosselen » (retirées de leur coquille et cuisinées en sauce) pour l’un, des « Gekookte Mosselen » (cuites dans leur coquille, en mode marinière) pour l’autre. C’est copieux, savoureux, chaleureux, à l’image de cette maison fort sympathique.

Quand nous sortons du restaurant, un grand soleil nous attend et nous invite à une promenade le long des quais (« Kaoie », dit-on dans le patois local, d’où le nom du restaurant). On longe le port de pêche où les chalutiers sont alignés comme à la parade. On dépasse le phare pour arriver au port de plaisance où mouillent des petits bateaux à moteur, des yachts plus luxueux et de fiers voiliers. Cela doit être bien plaisant d’y amarrer son navire.

Le samedi, la météo affichait grand beau temps sur la Zélande. Nous avons mis le cap sur Oranjezon pour emprunter à nouveau ce merveilleux petit sentier qui serpente entre des bois, s’enfonce dans la réserve naturelle, perce à travers les dunes et débouche sur Aloha Beach (du nom du petit pavillon de page, où nous avons avalé un en-cas à midi).

Nous avons passé une bonne partie de la journée à arpenter la plage vers Vrouwenpolder, les pieds dans une eau délicieusement réchauffée par le soleil. Nous avons passé notre dernière soirée à Vrouwenpolder, dînant au restaurant de l’hôtel (pas exceptionnel).

Il aurait été dommage de quitter la Zélande sans passer par Yerseke , le temple de la moule zélandaise. Les touristes y débarquent nombreux, beaucoup venus de Belgique, pour visiter les huîtrières. Ici, on ne badine pas avec la mytiliculture et l’ostréiculture. La moule a d’ailleurs sa fête, la « Mosseldag ».

Le port de Yerseke ne manque pas de charme, ainsi que les nombreux restaurants qui bordent les quais. Mais Joli.Voyage évite plutôt la foule et aime sortir des sentiers battus. Nous avons repéré une belle adresse pour déjeuner, au cœur du village: l’Oesterbeurs . Bien nous a pris.

Le restaurant affichait complet. Il restait heureusement une petite table en terrasse. Le parfait endroit pour se poser et déguster la gastronomie locale: homards de l’Escaut et soles. C’est fin, léger et relevé, de quoi quitter la Zélande avec un délicieux parfum en bouche. Et l’envie d’y replonger au plus vite.

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Invitation à l'escapade

Week-end en Zélande: parenthèse enchantée aux Pays-Bas

Ce week-end, un temps ensoleillé a envahi la Belgique, ce qui nous a forcément donné envie de bouger et de profiter de bon air frais. Le programme étant chargé, nous n’avons pas la possibilité de nous évader, mais ce temps magnifique me rappelle une parenthèse enchantée en Zélande .

Septembre 2018, début d’année scolaire, mais aussi début d’un bel été indien. On a envie de s’échapper, mais à moins de deux heures de Bruxelles . Cela fait plusieurs années que je rêve des falaises d’ Étretat , mais pour un week-end de deux jours, le trajet est un peu long. Amiens, Cologne , le Nord de la France ressortent de mes recherches. La ville d’Amsterdam (même si plus éloignée) est sur la liste. Je me laisserais bien tenter, mais mon collègue me met sur la piste de la Zélande . Mieux que la côte belge, moins loin qu’ Étretat et moins ville qu’Amsterdam. Après une petite balade sur le site de l’office du tourisme de la Hollande, c’est décidé : on part en Zélande pour le week-end !

Flessingue et Westkapelle petits villages en bord de mer

Le samedi matin, on se met en route avec l’intention de nous balader entre les plages et villages du sud de la Zélande .

Premier arrêt : Flessingue . Il faut avouer que la plage ne nous a pas transcendés : les digues sont hautes, et les plages proches du centre de la petite ville ne sont pas vraiment charmantes. Cependant, le village est très joli. Les rues sont étroites, les façades historiques. Il fait encore bon en ce premier week-end de septembre, et les terrasses fleuries sont bondées. On trouve tout de même assez facilement une place de parking sur la petite place encadrée de restaurants aux façades typiquement hollandaises.

Comme d’habitude, nous nous éloignons de la masse pour partir explorer les petites rues. On se dirige vers l’ église et tout autour on découvre une zone piétonne , où petits cafés, petites sandwicheries et petites boutiques foisonnent. Nous nous arrêtons dans un établissement au pied de l’église, où on mange un petit pain aux céréales avec des produits frais. C’est également un salon de thé dans le style anglais. C’est chou.

On continue la balade, les petites boutiques de créateurs se succèdent, ainsi que les magasins vintage . Si j’ai un jour envie de trouver des meubles industriels ou des « antiquités » originales, je sais que je retournerai y faire un tour. Les petites rues du centre sont très jolies, et avec ce soleil et la fin de la floraison des roses trémières qui colorent les façades d’un autre temps, on est complétement dépaysés.

Après avoir quitté Flessingue , on ne tarde pas à rejoindre Westkapelle où un joli phare trône fièrement. Cette région craint sans aucun doute les inondations, car la digue est très surélevée par rapport aux rues du village.

D’ailleurs, lorsque l’on s’y promène, on a une vue très dégagée sur les toits du village. Une mer de toits orangés qui s’étend jusqu’au phare, un peu plus loin dans les terres. De nouveau, les plages n’ont pas un charme particulier, mais sont assez larges et laissent beaucoup de place à la promenade.

Bien évidemment, de belles pistes cyclables parcourent le bord de mer. L’idée de faire une promenade à vélo nous effleure, mais on se dit que ce sera une super activité à prévoir pour une prochaine visite. La petite balade sur la digue, les cheveux au vent, nous revigore et on est satisfaits de pouvoir respirer le bon air de la mer.

Domburg, la balnéaire

On finit notre première journée à Domburg . C’est une station balnéaire aux allures chics, bien qu’elle m’ait semblé sans prétention. C’était mon coup de cœur de la journée, et si nous y étions arrivés plus tôt, nous y aurions passé plus de temps. Nous nous serions baladés dans les dunes alentours sans aucun doute.

C’est un joli village, vivant et accueillant, où on trouve pas mal d’hôtels et de restaurants, de petits magasins de plage, mais aussi des boutiques de décoration et de vêtements. Mais ce qui fait le charme de Domburg , c’est sans aucun doute les cabines colorées qui s’étendent sur la plage, et les dunes qui forment une digue naturelle entre le village à l’architecture basse des bords de mer et le littoral.

Les coloris pastel alternent fraîchement et gaiement sur toute la plage. L’ambiance y est colorée, et j’en garde un beau souvenir. Même si c’est un endroit couru et qu’il y a pas mal de monde, on ne ressent pas trop l’oppression que peut parfois créer la foule.

On termine notre balade et on repart vers Middelburg où l’on a réservé un hôtel.

L’hôtel est un peu décentré, et nous n’avons pas particulièrement envie de manger sur place. Je redoute de donner cher pour ne pas être satisfaite. J’avais repéré deux ou trois bons petits restos, mais nous aurions clairement dû réserver, car tout est complet.

Alors, on se balade dans la ville et on retourne près de l’endroit où nous nous sommes garés. Nous avions vu une jolie petite devanture, donc on y tente notre chance. Ce n’était pas le restaurant du siècle, mais on y a bien mangé et trouvé notre bonheur pour un prix correct.

Le fait d’avoir cherché un endroit où manger nous a aussi donné l’occasion d’une balade dans la ville, ce qui sera à refaire. La petite ville a des allures de Bruges , avec son petit hôtel de ville, ses petites maisons aux airs moyenâgeux, ses petites rues pavées et son canal la traversant. J’aimerais y retourner plus tôt dans la journée ou l’après-midi pour pouvoir me perdre d’autant mieux dans ces petites rues (qui regorgent encore une fois d’antiquaires).

Nous avions réservé une nuit dans un Vander Valk, et bien que nous ne soyons pas de grands fans des chaînes d’hôtels (comme de restaurants d’ailleurs), la spontanéité de notre week-end ne nous a pas laissé le choix !

Il faut cependant bien avouer qu’on y a bien dormi, que la salle de bain était presqu’aussi grande que la chambre (baignoire faite pour y tenir à deux, douche et double vasque), et qu’on y a profité d’un calme olympien malgré la taille de l’hôtel et la proximité de l’autoroute. Mais ce qui m’a vraiment conquis, c’est le petit-déjeuner inclus dans la nuitée. Il y avait longtemps que je n’avais plus pu profiter de buffets aussi diversifiés et d’un choix si large pour mon petit-déjeuner, tout étant réapprovisionné régulièrement et fraîchement cuisiné dans les cuisines du restaurant.

Avec ce petit-dej’ dans le ventre, on est prêts pour passer une belle journée, à la recherche de plages plus sauvages et moins courues que celles visitées la veille, histoire que l’on se prélasse tranquillement et que l’on se balade calmement le long de l’eau.

J’avais très envie de voir de beaux grands phares se dresser fièrement vers les cieux : je voulais qu’ils soient jolis et grands et non pas petits et ratatinés comme les phares norvégiens (on en reparlera dans mes articles consacrés à notre voyage de noces – la frustration est aussi grande qu’eux sont petits !).

Je m’étais renseignée, et j’en avais trouvé un joli, à proximité d’une belle plage sensée être sauvage et à l’orée d’un bois. Un combo parfait pour moi !

Bourg-Hamstede: beauté sauvage

On se met en route donc pour Bourg-Hamstede et son phare de Westlicht . Sur le chemin, on s’arrête pour observer l’énorme barrage, voisin d’un champ d’éolienne, également aux abords très boisés où l’on assiste à un concert de piaillement d’oiseaux. C’est bruyant, tellement bruyant, qu’ils masquent à eux seuls le bruit généré par le barrage. Ça donne une scène presque surréaliste, surtout quand ils s’échappent de leur cachette et prennent un envol collectif pour danser dans le ciel et s’éparpiller ensuite. L’endroit n’est pas particulièrement beau, mais il nous semble atypique avec toutes ses contradictions de béton et de technologies, nous laissant cependant écouter la nature chanter.

On reprend la route vers Bourg-Hamstede et… SURPRISE ! Le beau phare rouge et blanc est bien là, mais il est recouvert d’un échafaudage. C’est bien notre veine… mais un voyage sans échafaudage, n’est pas un voyage pour nous !

Néanmoins, nous ne sommes pas déçus de l’endroit. J’y retrouve tout ce qui me fait vibrer quand on est en Scandinavie : les plages sauvages, les dunes bien dessinées et pleines d’herbes folles et épaisses, et la mer qui n’est ni turquoise ni foncée, qui a cette allure fraîche et pimpante des eaux caressées par les vents forts du nord. Le sable est plus blanc que sur nos côtes belges, et il n’y a pas à dire, j’aime mon pays et ses trésors, mais ça change tout !

On passe sur cette plage presque déserte quelques heures, on ne dîne pas tant on a bien petit-déjeuné (et pas si tôt, avec ça) et on va se balader le long de l’eau. On est presque seuls dans ce bel endroit. Quelques familles s’amusent, un couple de personnes plus âgées se prélasse au soleil, et nous, on s’abrite du vent frais au pied d’une grande dune.

De là où l’on se trouve, on ne voit que la mer et la plage. À perte de vue. Au soleil, il fait bon, on est en septembre, et j’avoue déconnecter et même m’assoupir. Aujourd’hui pour moi le luxe, c’est ça : être où il y a peu de monde et en profiter. Je ne pourrais vous dire si cette plage est peu fréquentée d’habitude ou si le fait que nous étions le premier week-end de septembre y soit pour quelque chose, mais il est certain que nous n’étions que peu à profiter de cette immense plage et du bruit du ressac.

L’atmosphère commence à se dorer, le soleil entamera bientôt sa descente vers l’horizon. On reprend le petit chemin qui traverse les dunes et qui parcourt le sous-bois qui mène aux quelques maisons alentour et au phare avec lequel elles cohabitent. Je me revois aux abords de Skagen , au Danemark (je vous parlerai de Skagen un jour et de l’amour que j’y voue).

Goes: la petite surprise

Sur la route du retour, on voit la pancarte Goes . J’avais vu ce nom dans mes recherches, et mon mari bifurque. Nous ne regrettons pas cette décision : le petit village est charmant ! Il renferme un tout petit port bordé de vieilles maisons et quelques terrasses. De petits bateaux et voiliers sont amarrés. On se balade quelques minutes et on se rend compte que le village regorge de petits restaurants, de boutiques et qu’il doit y avoir de la vie à Goes les jours de semaine et les week-ends (n’en étant déjà visiblement pas privée un dimanche soir).

On ne traîne plus ; demain, on doit retourner travailler. Le devoir nous appelle, mais c’est heureux et reposés que l’on reprend la route vers Bruxelles.

Ce voyage en Zélande nous aura surpris. Je ne pensais pas avoir un si joli coin de nature et de paradis à moins de deux heures de chez moi. Je n’aurais jamais parié sur la Zélande et sa beauté, et j’ai bien sûr eu tort.

Je retournerai voir les plages hollandaises, je pousserai ma curiosité encore plus loin et m’aventurerai encore dans ce beau pays que sont les Pays-Bas. En entendant, il nous faut refermer la parenthèse.

Pour prolonger votre voyage:

• continuer d’explorer la côte hollandaise jusque Rotterdam ou Amsterdam
• s’arrêter et visiter la belle Anvers
• faire un crochet par Bruges , Malines ou Lier , en Belgique.

Lien utile:

• Le site de l’office du tourisme des Pays-Bas

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On met les voiles | Blog voyage en France et autour du monde

Blog voyage | Conseils pour voyager, photographie de voyage et vidéo de voyage

• Nouvelle Zélande , Océanie

Voyage en Nouvelle-Zélande: Itinéraire sur 3 semaines

Voyage en Nouvelle-Zélande : Notre itinéraire sur 3 semaines

Tu imagines un voyage en Nouvelle-Zélande et tu espères trouver un itinéraire de folie sur 3 semaines   ? À avaler les 5 000 kilomètres de notre itinéraire pour découvrir des paysages incroyables? À rouler sur des routes sinueuses? Sur des autoroutes qui n’en ont pas l’air? De croiser la mer, la montagne, la neige, le vent et le soleil sur ton périple? Oui!!! Bravooo c’est la bonne réponse. Tu vas vivre le voyage de ta vie de ta vie sur fond d’aventure romantique et, pour ça, on a un itinéraire à te proposer.

Et regarde, on t’a même fait une carte interactive centralisant tous les points d’intérêts de notre itinéraire   de 3 semaines en Nouvelle-Zélande .

Jour 1. Auckland

Depuis l’aéroport, prends la compagnie Skybus. Elle te mène en 50 minutes dans le centre d’Auckland pour 16 dollars/adulte et par trajet. Sur place, tu peux visiter la SkyTower (30 dollars et 300 mètres de hauteur… soit 10 dollars les 10 mètres environ).

Ensuite il faut inévitablement filer vers le Mont Eden , ce fameux cratère de volcan, pour avoir des jolies panoramas sur la ville.

On te conseille aussi de visiter Albert Park et ses arbres incroyables qui pourraient rendre mystiques les jardins de Versailles. Une bonne journée pour la visite flash de la ville et hop, on se prépare pour le lendemain, premier jour du road trip .

Où dormir à Auckland ?

L’option pas chère : Jucy Snooze, une sorte d’auberge de jeunesse, même si vous pouvez avoir votre propre chambre (avec salle de bain partagée). En plein centre ville. Le petit plus : Vous avez le droit à 30 min de WiFi gratuit par jour. Entre 40 et 60€ la nuit pour deux selon les périodes.

L’option sympa :  Star Victoria Serviced Apartments, des chambres et apparts hôtels spacieux, avec vue, ici encore en plein centre ville. À partir de 180€ la nuit.

Jour 2. Cathedral Cove (Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve)

Là tu as roulé 2h30 pour te payer un décor de rêve. C’est tellement beau que certains ont voulu y tourner des films. Oh non, rien de fou, Le pianiste par exemple 😉 Sache que pour accéder au site tu devras faire une petite marche d’environ 20 minutes. Mais là vraiment, ça vaut carrément le coup. C’est magnifique.

Proche de là tu as les Hot water beach . On a testé et franchement, on a trouvé la beach mais on n’a pas trop trouvé le hot. On l’appellerait plutôt « Tempérée water beach » 😉 et comme, selon nous, la plage n’est pas à tomber et bien, au final on ne s’y est pas baigné et on est même parti vers de nouvelles aventures… Les Hobbits!!

Où dormir à Cathedral Cove ?

L’option pas chère :  Turtlecove Accommodation, à 30 minutes en voiture de Cathedral Cove, c’est une auberge sympa, proposant des chambres ou lits en dortoir selon les budgets. À partir de 18€ la nuit.

L’option sympa :  Cathedral cove and Sunrise, à quelques minutes seulement du site mythique, vous trouverez ici des chambres et appartements avec une vue panoramique sur l’océan, magique! Entre 170 et 200€ la nuit.

Jour 3. Hobbiton

Alors là, on a été séduit. C’est notre petit cousin qui nous a gonflés pour y aller et au final on a adoré. Tu rentres dans le monde des hobbits et de leurs petites vies très étriquées il faut bien le dire 😉 Mais c’est tellement charmant qu’on a quand même failli tout plaquer pour entamer une vie de Hobbit. On n’a pas trouvé la communauté alors pour l’instant on reste en France 😉

La balade dure environ 2 heures, elle se fait en groupe, mais rassurez-vous ce n’est pas oppressant, on peut laisser de la distance. On a payé 79 dollars par personne et, selon nous, c’est pas volé.

Où dormir à côté d’Hobbiton ?

L’option pas chère :  Denchys B&B, petit Bed & Breakfast avec jardin, calme à une dizaine de kilomètres d’Hobbiton. A partir de 64€ la nuit.

L’option sympa :  Lake Karapiro Lodge, à 15 minutes d’Hobbiton, c’est un établissement charmant, offrant une vue magnifique sur le lac ou les montagnes. Petits déjeuner copieux et Wifi. A partir de 150€ la nuit.

Jour 4 et 5. Les parcs géothermiques

Tu peux commencer avec le parc de Wai-O-Tapu . C’est tout simplement une pépite naturelle avec tout plein de bizarreries pour émerveiller tes yeux, attiser ta curiosité et donner des idées pour te débarrasser d’un proche et tout ça pour la somme abordable de 29$/pers.

Ce parc te sort le grand jeu de la géothermie à coup de « Piscine du diable » (vert arsenic), sa « Palette de l artiste » (dégradé de couleurs dû aux silice, manganèse, or…), « La piscine de champagne »… et son Geyser. On te conseille d’y aller tôt, mais alors vraiment tôt. On en est parti à 11h du mat’ et il y avait un bouchon pour accéder au site alors qu’à 9h, on était quasi seuls pour visiter. 

Si tu veux encore plus de géothermie, file voir la Mud pool de Wai-O-Tapu . Tape ça sur ton GPS et il t’y conduira. L’accès est gratuit. 😉

Pour info, on a passé la nuit au lac Okaro . Super place de camping sur le lac. Le site est très beau et ça te coute 8$/adulte et 4$/enfant. Pour ceux qui ne sont pas en van, je vous donne d’autres options en dessous.

Où dormir à Rotorua, près de Wai-O-Tapu ?

L’option pas chère :  Sunny Home, maison d’hôtes, à 3km du centre de Rotorua, elle propose des chambres avec salle de bain partagée, et a l’avantage d’avoir une piscine! À partir 35€ la nuit.

L’option sympa :  KARANDA BnB,  hôtel avec une vue magnifique sur la ville de Rotorua ainsi que le lac. À partir de 160€ la nuit.

Dès le lendemain matin, parce qu’on en voulait encore, on est allé à Waimangu : A 39$/personne, on y a vu l’une des plus belles scènes naturelles de notre vie , à savoir une fumée dansante sur un lac surplombée par une colline elle-même sous la fumée d’un site volcanique. C’est juste incroyable.

Orakei korako : 32$/personne pour te retrouver confronté à des énormes coulées de silice qui drapent de blanc le flanc de la colline. C’est beau à voir même si, c’est moins impressionnant que Waimangu selon nous.

Enfin, pour bien terminer la journée, file jeter un oeil aux Huka Falls . Site gratuit (Alleluïa c’est possible 😉 Elles sont considérées comme les plus belles chutes de Nouvelle-Zélande. En tous cas elles sont capables de remplir deux piscines olympiques à la seconde… Donc TU NE PLONGES PAS 😉

Où dormir autour de Orakei Korako ?

Ridgetop Farm stay : Gîte a côté d’une maison familiale, vous pourrez profiter du jardin et du spa. Très bien situé. Environ 90€ la nuit

Jour 6. Le Tongariro Crossing

Avant de s’y lancer, on a souvent lu que c’était le plus beau trek au monde et maintenant on comprend pourquoi. C’EST COMPLETEMENT FOU. C’est assez fou pour que tu te casses les cuisses sur 20 km , assez fou pour que tu entendes tes proches se plaindre du chaud puis du froid et c’est assez fou pour avoir envie de recommencer les 7 à 8 heures de marche . On te laisse apprécier ces 20 km de diversités naturelles en photo.

Pour faire simple tu commences ton ascension en grimpant sur des coulées de lave, tu te balades ensuite à côté d’un volcan, et la BIM tu tombes sur un cratère rouge absolument dingue. Tu fais quelques mètres et c’est au tour des piscines turquoises de t’impressionner, après ça t’es prêt pour la redescente, avec vue royale sur l’horizon et tu termines avec un petit passage genre « jungle tropicale » voilà … Rien de plus en fait !!

À savoir que ce n’est pas une boucle. Il faut donc prévoir un véhicule à l’arrivée du trek qui se situe au Ketetahi Carpark . Mais il y a aussi possibilité de réserver en ligne ou sur place, un bus à la fin du trek qui t’accompagne au début du trek. C’est 30$/adulte.

Enfin, pour éviter les grosses affluences, on te conseille soit de commencer très tôt soit très tard. Nous on a pris la dernière navette de bus à 10h30, donc départ du trek à 11h. Et avec le temps qu’on passe à faire les photos et vidéos… On a fini quasi dernier. Comment on le sait?  Il était 19h30 et quand il ne reste que des Espagnols avec toi, tu comprends que t’es vraiment dans les derniers… C’est pour te dire 😉 Salut les Espagnols 🙂

Où dormir autour du Tongariro National Park ?

L’option pas chère : National Park Backpackers,  auberge de jeunesse avec de multiples chambres. Certaines avec une belle vue sur le parc, et le mont Ngauruhoe. À partir de 15€ la nuit en dortoir.

L’option sympa : Chateau Tongariro Hôtel , véritable château, idéalement situé par rapport au parc, avec une vue incroyable sur le volcan. Environ 50€ la nuit.

Jour 7. Rejoindre l’île du Sud

On a donc accepté de passer une journée dans les transports. Tu pars donc pour Wellington (3h30 environ et 287 km) pour rejoindre le Ferry qui te conduira de Wellington à Picton sur l’île du Sud. Si la traversée dure aussi 3h, il faut dire que le passage par Charlotte Sound est vraiment magnifique avec ses innombrables vues sur la baie. Pour les questions pratiques, il faut savoir qu’on a réglé la traversée en même temps que la location de notre Van avec Happy Campers .

Une fois atteri, on s’est dirigé vers Marahau , une ville proche du Parc d’ Abel Tasman pour déjà avaler un peu de route et être dispos le lendemain pour profiter des plages paradisiaques 🙂

Jour 8. Abel Tasman

Alors là si tu ne connais pas encore de paradis sur terre , on peut déjà te dire que là tu vas en voir un. Incroyable comme site. Regarde d’ailleurs les photos c’est assez éloquent non?

Il faut par contre savoir 2 ou 3 bricoles pour prévoir ton passage là bas. On te conseille directement d’y rester 2 voire 3 jours si possible. Il est en fait impossible de bouger en véhicule à l’intérieur du parc. Donc soit tu pars à pieds de Motueka, le village le plus proche, soit tu payes les services d’un taxi boat qui te conduit où tu souhaites dans le parc pour des prix débutants à 35$/personne pour atteindre Anchorage , la première grande plage qui est à 13km.

Si tu souhaites passer quelques jours dans le parc, tu peux tout à fait faire l’aller en bateau. Tu pars avec ta tente, et tu marches tes 30 km en plusieurs jours pour rejoindre Motueka . Malheureusement on n’a pas pu faire ça, mais ça doit être magique.

Tu peux réserver ton taxi boat au centre de vente sur le front de mer de Motueka . Tu ne pourras pas le rater, il est identifiable. Attention aussi aux heures de marées pour tes balades 😉 ça peut allonger ou raccourcir tes trajets. Exemple, on a voulu atteindre Torrent bay mais, impossible, car la marée était haute et on ne disposait pas d’assez de temps. Sache qu’on te donne toutes ces infos, mais on a les glandes, on a trop envie d’y retourner 😉

Où dormir près du parc Abel Tasman : 

L’option vraiment pas chère en dortoir : Adventure Inn Marahau Hébergement en dortoir, mais ambiance très très sympa! Salle de cinéma, billard, food truck.. Le lieu parfait pour un voyage entre amis. Environ 20€ la nuit.

L’option sympa : Aroha Anchor Apartement Idéalement situé près de l’entrée du parc, déco très agréable, et vous bénéficiez en plus d’un petit jardin. Environ 120€ la nuit.

Jour 9. Golden bay

Départ pour la région de Golden Bay , avec un premier arrêt aux Te Waikoroppu springs . C’est tellement compliqué que c’est devenu Pupu Springs . Elles sont connues pour être des sources d’où jaillit l’eau la plus pure du monde! Rien que ça.

Tu peux faire une promenade autour des sources et ça te fait une pose sur ton chemin pour Golden Bay. Pour être honnête, il ne faisait pas très beau quand on y était et ça ne nous a pas tellement marqué.

On a donc repris la route vers Golden Bay et arrivés à destination sache qu’il faut marcher environ 10 minutes pour atteindre la fameuse plage « Wharariki Beach » . Mais ouffff c’est époustouflant! On conseille d’y être ou d’attendre la marée basse pour pouvoir profiter un maximum de la plage et de la vue que ça offre sur la mer. Et en prime, on y a vu notre premier phoque là bas. L’accès est gratuit.

Où dormir à Golden Bay :

• Zatori : Etablissement spacieux, il offre une magnifique vue sur la mer. A partir de 90€ la nuit.

Punakaiki Beach Camp

Jour 10. Pancake Rocks

Pour atteindre ces fameuses roches en forme de Pancakes empilées les unes sur les autres, fais route vers Punakaiki pour te rendre dans le Parc national Paparoa . On a visité lieu das des conditions déplorables. Vent incroyable, pluie battante et incessante et moral des troupes au plus bas et pourtant c’était magnifique. Tu te prends en pleine figure ces innombrables couches successives de sédimentations de calcaire érodé . Ça représente des millions d’années et ça en jette.

À savoir que si, tout le monde s’arrête pour les Pancakes Rocks, nous compris, le parc est en fait gigantesque et c’est le moins connu de NZ. L’homme n’aurait pas encore mis les pieds dans certaines zones… Ça c’est pour vous les aventurier(e)s…

Où dormir autour de pancakes Rocks : 

L’option pas chère :  Punakaiki Beach Camp – Petits lodges au bord de mer, vous pourrez profitez du design des cabanes, du jardin et de la vue. À partir de 60€ la nuit.

L’option sympa :  Punakaiki Resort – Etablissement absolument sublime avec une vue incroyable sur la mer. À partir de 195€ la nuit.

Jour 11. Les gorges d’Hokitika

Depuis les Pancakes Rocks jusqu’à Wanaka il y a une paire de kilomètres alors on a décidé de s’arrêter dans un premier temps aux gorges d’Hokitika , on avait lu que la couleur de l’eau était canon et devinez quoi ? Et bien elle était vraiment canon !! Il y a une petite marche de 10 minutes à tout casser pour arriver à un pont suspendu sacrement photogénique. Ça vaut le détour.

On a ensuite fait étape au Lac Matheson . La promesse est magnifique, un sentier parcouru en 45 minutes te conduit sur à Reflexion Island, ce lieu si populaire où la montagne se reflète dans le lac. Bon, flop de notre côté, aucun reflet dans le lac. On était un peu déçu, car un ami l’a fait avant nous et ce qu’il a ramené comme photo… Ça vend du rêve. Ça dépend des conditions climatiques tout ça 😉 À quand une appli qui permette de maitriser la météo pfff!!

Jour 12. Wanaka

On a une chose à annoncer, le chemin qui te conduit de Queenstown à Wanaka et juste magique et surtout sur la fin (la traversée du Mount Aspirine National Park). Tu peux y dormir en van self contained si tu le souhaites et quand tu y seras tu n’hésiteras pas on suppose. Bref, on est allé à Wanaka avec un but précis. On voulait défier le Roys Peak . 8 km d’ascension brutale pour une vue incroyable sur la beauté de notre monde. T’en chies, mais t’es fier. On l’a fait et on ne regrette pas.

On s’est ensuite baladé autour du lac Wanaka pour aller photographier l’arbre le plus famous du pays … #ThatWanakaTree

On te conseille ensuite de reprendre un peu la route pour t’avancer vers une pépite Néo Zélandaise… Milford Sound!! On roule donc vers  Queenstown , autoproclamée  capitale mondiale de l’aventure . Alors nous on n’est pas des grands aventuriers, du coup on a plutôt opté pour un gros hamburger, une balade au bord de l’eau et un coucher de soleil inoubliable.

Si on avait su le charme de cette ville, on y serait resté plus longtemps c’est certain. Mais pas de place pour les regrets, on y  a passé une jolie demi-journée.

Où dormir à Wanaka ?

• Wanaka Hotel : Hôtel charmant avec un grand jardin et vue sur le lac, à partir de 100€ la nuit.
• Lake Hawea Hotel : Du côté du lac Havéa, à 15 km de Wanaka, cet hôtel vous offre une ve époustouflante sur le lac. La déco devrait aussi vous ravir! A partir de 200€ la nuit.

Jour 13. Milford Sound

5 heures de route te séparent de Wanaka, c’est très long, mais qu’est ce que ça vaut le coup!!! Milford sound , une croisière dans les fjords qu’on n’oubliera jamais. Des cascades en cascades, des montagnes qui débutent leurs plongeons dans l’eau 700 mètres plus hauts, une eau verte et bleu à la fois et … des phoques,  certains veinards y voient même des baleines et des dauphins… fumiers 😉

On a fait ça avec la compagnie Real Journeys et on a aimé la prestation. On n’est pas les uns sur les autres sur un bateau qui, en plus est confortable et pratique pour capter des images 🙂 On a payé 120$/personne.

Le chemin pour atteindre les fjords est sublime aussi et avec un peu de chance tu croiseras des Kéas sur ta route. Et si vraiment tu veux voir un Kéa, arrête-toi à «  The chasm  » qui te permet d’aller observer un gouffre, ils sont nombreux à rester aux abords du parking. Les gens les nourrissent, mais toi stp ne le fais pas 😉

Où dormir à Milford sound ?

Il faut savoir que la ville la plus proche est à 1h45, il n’y a pas de logement à Milford Sound même, voilà les logements que je vous recommande, à Te Anau:

• L’option bon marché : Te Anau Lakefront Backpacker – Petite auberge de jeunesse, vous pourrez trouver des logements à partir de 20€ en tente, et 76€ dans des petits chalets.
• L’option plus sympa : Aden Motel – Chambres spacieuse, le Motel est situé à 2 minutes à pied du lac. A partir de 90€ la nuit.

Jour 14. Les Moerakis Boulders

Où dormir aux Moeraki Boulders :

• Motels by the Moeraki Boulders Holidays Park : Situé à Hampden, à 5 minutes en voitures des célèbres Moeraki Boulders, cet hôtel vous propose des chalets sous forme de studio donnant sur un jardin. A partir de 80€ la nuit.

Jour 15. Mount Cook

Départ pour le mont Cook à 220 km de Moeraki. C’est le plus haut mont du pays, il culmine à 3754 mètres. Déjà, lorsque tu le vois de loin tu le trouves fascinant. Mais pour nous, on l’a simplement approché en longeant le lac pukaki qu’on a trouvé extraordinaire et auprès duquel on a passé la journée.

Concours de circonstances, il y avait beaucoup de nuages autour du mont et le soleil tapait sur le lac qu’on a trouvé magnifique alors on a décidé de se poser et de se balader dans le coin et franchement on n’a pas regretté. Le lac avec en arrière plan le mont, c’est une véritable carte postale.

Jour 16. Akaroa et les dauphins imaginaires

360 km environ pour relier le mont Cook à Akaroa , la ville la plus française de la NZ, vestige de notre tentative de coloniser le pays en 1840. Petite ville de charme au bord de l’eau. On a voulu partir à la découverte des dauphins d’Hector. On a pris la compagnie Black Cat’s cruises pour se lancer à l’aventure.

Malheureusement on n’a rien vu du tout. Hector nous a boudés. Dans ce cas-là, la compagnie donne un bon à valoir pour recommencer l’excursion gratuitement. C’est plutôt honnête d’autant que la sortie est tout de même jolie.

Jour 17. Kaikoura et les baleines

Réputé pour être le meilleur endroit au monde pour observer les baleines et principalement les cachalots , on a donc réservé une sortie en mer avec la compagnie «  Whale Watch « . et là, même si tu te dis qu’on a bloqué sur les animaux marins on s’en cogne parce que ça a été un festival. Des phoques , des dauphins par dizaines et on a même pu observer un cachalot de plus de 18 mètres prenant sa respiration pendant environ 10 minutes pour enfin le voir s’enfuir dans les profondeurs des eaux gelées. ENORME!

Pour pouvoir écrire ce ENORME, on a payé 150$ dollars/pers. On te conseille de réserver avant, car on a vu beaucoup de gens arriver spontanément pour réserver une sortie et tous sont repartis 😉

Jour 18. Le retour

Il faut bien que ça arrive hein! Si tu suis grosso modo le même itinéraire que nous, tu repartiras donc vers Christchurch pour prendre un avion retour. Tu pourras y laisser ton Van et ainsi t’éviter de remonter jusqu’à Auckland. Happy Campers propose cette formule et c’est plutôt pas mal.

Voilà on se quitte sur cet itinéraire qui, en le tapant, nous a refaits vibrer. Petit(e) veinard(e)s, tu vas simplement vivre une expérience de grand malade, un voyage de folie. Une fois que ce sera gravé dans ta mémoire, envoie-nous un ptit message pour nous donner ton ressenti. 🙂

Et en attendant, profite du fait qu’on est encore en train d’écrire d’autres articles sur la NZ pour nous poser en commentaire les questions complémentaires que tu aimerais aborder. Ca peut nous aider et toi aussi. Et ouais, on est une team 😉

… Et quelques conseils utiles pour préparer ton voyage

Question budget.

On a payé 800 € par personne pour l’aller-retour depuis Nice avec Air China.

Le budget total de notre séjour c’est environ 2 500€/ personne pour les 3 semaines, avion compris.

Le paiement en CB est démocratisé en Nouvelle-Zélande, inutile de te jeter sur les ATM.

Le prix de l’essence est vraiment plus haut que celui du diesel. C’est à considérer.

Sur place, en van ou en voiture

On l’a loué avec la société Happy Campers environ 1500 € pour les 3 semaines. Un vieux van Toyota Hiace affichant plus de 500 000 km au compteur en moteur essence.

Mieux vaut choisir un van self contained pour camper « presque » partout. Votre van sera certainement équipé d’un évier, une réserve d’eau d’environ 40 litres et d’une cuisine d’appoint avec une réserve de gaz.

Sinon, il vous est aussi possible louer une voiture « classique » pour rouler à travers le pays, mais il faudra alors vous débrouiller pour les logements. Pour l’étranger, le mieux est certainement d’aller sur un comparateur type Rental Cars pour trouver le meilleur prix parmi toutes les compagnies.

L’hygiène

Impossible de se laver dans un van alors, il est possible d’aller dans des campings payants mais aussi dans les piscines municipales (payantes) ou dans certaines stations services (payant aussi). Les plages et certains campings permettent des douches gratuites … froides 😉

Les petits coins: Chaque van self contained est équipé d’un WC portable dépliant. On ne l’a pas utilisé, les routes sont jonchées de toilettes publiques relativement propres.

On a acheté une puce Vodafone sur place. 8 Gigas + appels et sms pour 80€. Selon nous c’est la meilleure offre.

Spark propose une autre offre avec des bornes relais où tu dois te pointer pour bénéficier du réseau. Il y a pas mal de bornes mais pas suffisamment selon nous et la portée des bornes est très faible.

Les applis utiles

Campermate pour trouver TOUTES les informations utiles et on ne déconne pas. Campings payants, gratuits, avec wifi, sans… Stations services, centres commerciaux, fast food, points Wifi… Tu trouveras tout sur Campermate et même en hors connexion.

Maps.me : cette appli aussi te sauvera la vie. Télécharge tes cartes pour les utiliser ensuite sur place en hors connexion.

Si jamais cela vous fait un peu peur d’organiser un tel itinéraire seul, vous pouvez aussi décider de tout déléguer . D’autant plus si vous souhaitez alterner r andonnées , balades en vélo , visites des lieux phares de la Nouvelle-Zélande… Et que vous ne savez pas trop comment organiser cela ! Bref si vous souhaitez vous concocter un voyage sur mesure , seul ou à plusieurs, le site Terre d’Aventure sera très certainement approprié !

Et enfin pour terminer de te donner une vision complète de ce que sera ton voyage en Nouvelle Zélande , voici le notre en videos

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177 réponses sur “Voyage en Nouvelle-Zélande: Itinéraire sur 3 semaines”

Magnifique billet ! Je fais le voeux d’y aller très bientôt…

Et on croise les doigts pour que ton voeux soit exaucé au plus vite 🙂 Mervi beaucoup 🙂

Je n’arrive plus à me concentrer sur mon travail tellement les paysages sont beaux. Vous êtes ma bulle d’oxygène aujourd’hui !

Ohhhh trop génial!! CA, tu peux pas savoir comme ça nous fait plaisir 🙂 Mais CA SUFFIT maintenant! Au boulot 😉

Génial votre itinéraire, il regroupe tous les points que nous aimerions voir si nous partons là-bas!! 😀

Ah merci 🙂 Et vous l’envisagez?

Absolument, mais on ne sait pas encore quand ce sera possible, peut-être d’ici quelques années 😉

Ahhhh super 🙂 On espère que vous aimerez autant que nous 😉

Wouah la claque! J’ai suivi votre périple et j’ai trouvé ça canon! Alors avec l’article, j’avoue ça donne vraiment envie! Reste plus qu’à ajouter la NZ dans notre liste! Merci pour le partage! . Emilie

Ohhhhc’est trop sympa. Et pour nous c’est tellement agréable d’avoir un beau retour de blogueurs 🙂 Merci merci merci 🙂 Et votre prochaine destination c’est… ?

Magnifique ton billet! Sur quelle période es tu partie??

Merci beaucoup 🙂 Je suis partie entre décembre et Janvier

Profitez bien de ce magnifique voyage qui donne très envie 🙂

Ohhh merci. On est rentré là mais on a qu’une envie… Y retourner 😉

Quel périple et quelles photos. Vous vendez du rêve. Et si on voulait partir en mode plus « soft », et rester une semaine dans une région, vous nous conseilleriez quoi ?

Ohhhh vous y pensez donc… On s’est bien concertés tous les deux pour te répondre et unanimement on pense à la région de Rotorua. Tu as les parcs géothermiques à proximité mais aussi le Tongariro crossing et donc la grande nature, mais aussi la ville où beaucoup d’activités ludiques permettent de faire passer des bons moments aux enfants et aux parents aussi 😉 Et sur l’ile du sud on pense à Wanaka pour les mêmes raison 😉 Vous imaginez y aller quand?

Ca donne encore plus envie ! Merci pour les conseils ! Ca nous sera utile dans quelques mois 🙂

Yessss! Super pour vous. vous allez y rester combien de temps? Road trip aussi?

Merci ! Et bien on ne sait pas encore, on hésite entre y rester 6 mois ou voyager dans les environs. Ca va dépendre de comment je me sens en roulant à gauche 🙂

Ah oui la conduite à gauche, moi en 3 semaines c’était intégré, j’ai même eu du mal à me réhabituer à conduire à droite en france 😉

Je tenterai et on verra pas, on se met pas la pression 🙂

T’as bien raison 😉

Ah ben merci, j’ai encore plus hâte de partiiiiiiiir maintenant !!!^^ Merci pour cet article que j’attendais impatiemment et pour toutes ces infos bien pratiques. Je crois que grâce à vous, notre itinéraire est prêt !!! 😀 On va certainement louer un van, et on se demandait si ce serait intéressant de demander un diesel. Au vu du prix de l’essence, vous confirmez ce qu’on pensait, mais trouve-t-on du gasoil partout ? Parce qu’aux USA par exemple, ce n’est pas le cas…

Ahh super! On est trop content. Tout dépend du prix de base de la location de l’essence. Nous, en payant le van 1500 € les 3 semaines on a fait une économie en optant pour l’essence mais si le van était à 2000€ ça aurait été l’inverse. On a calcule grossièrement le prix dépensé dans l’essence pour 5000 km parcourus et on en a eu pour 800 dollars. Combien aurait on payé avec le diesel…? Quoi qu’il en soit ça nous est revenu à 3000 dollars, van + essence. Voila c’est a peu près tout ce qu’on peut vous dire. Il faut aussi savoir que essence ou diesel, les vieux vans consomment plus que les récents 😉 Bon courage pour vous dépatouiller de tout ça et n’hésitez pas si vous avez d’autres questions.

Merci d’avoir pris le temps de répondre ! Il va surtout falloir qu’on étudie de près les comparateurs du type Autoeurope. Mais les préparatifs, ça fait déjà partie du charme du voyage !

Ah oui ça fait partie du charme mais il faut avoir du temps pour apprécier cette phase et c’est des fois la qe ça pêche pour nous !! et on a oublié de vous donner le prix de l’essence, 1,60 le sans plomb et 1,10 le diesel 😉

WAW!! Ça en envoie!!! C’est magnifique, sacré périple! Bravo pour cet article super complet! Bisous les amoureux <3

Coucou toi! Merci beaucoup 🙂 Bises

Super j’adore votre trip. La sortie baleine et dauphin c’est génial. On n’avait pas eu envie de la faire il y a 9ans (vivant en Nouvelle Calédonie, je pense que les animaux marins, on en voyait suffisamment en plongée… Grossière erreur quand je vois vous photos.). Par contre nous avions été matinal pour le Tongariro car nous étions partis à 7h du mat, au levé de soleil… le réveil était lourd mais quelle splendeur de marcher avec la frontale et de voir le crépuscule se lever. Je trouve que vous avez fait Motueka comme il faut. C’est magique cet endroit avec l’Abel Tasman Bay, et la Queen Charlotte Track. Encore félicitations pour cet article et ça me donne vraiment envie d’y retourner pour faire ce qu’on n’avait pas fait il y a 9ans.

Ah oui l’observation des baleines était intense c’est vrai mais peut être qu’un voyage vers Vancouver vous fera rattraper ça 😉 Oui tu sais qu’on a adoré Vancouver et il parait que l’ile de Vancouver est à tomber 🙂 Sinon, de notre coté c’est la plongée qui nous fait défaut. Il faudrait qu’on s ‘y mette pour pouvoir encore mieux profiter des pays qu’on visite. Surtout quand on ira en Nouvelle Calédonie 😉 Si un jour vous y retournez prévenez nous hein 😉 On ne sait jamais 🙂

Bonjour! C’est superbe comme trip! A qu’elle periode y etes vous allez ?? Je voudrais y aller juillet aout en pleine periode d’hiver avec vous eu des echos sur cette periode la? Sachant que l’ile du sud est ma priorité!! A bientot !

Oui c’était un voyage merveilleux. Tu comptes y faire un road trip aussi? On a rencontré des voyageurs la bas qui dormaient dans un van en Aout et ils avaient un peu froid quand meme. ils dormaient habillés et en blouson parfois mais ce qu’ils en retiennent c’est que c’est un voyage hors normes. Nous on avoue que dormir dans le froid ca nous plait moyen moyen ;)A savoir aussi qu’en NZ les chauffages dans les maisons ne sont pas dans toutes les pieces, ils sont en genral uniquement dans la piece principale 😉 Tu te poses peut être d ‘autres questions?

Coucou les copains ! Super article agrémenté de magnifiques photos 🙂 La Nouvelle Zélande est dans notre bucket List donc on garde votre article bien au chaud ! en tout cas ça fait rêver 🙂

Ohhhh super si c’est déjà listé. et vous avez prévu une date? Merci en tous cas les copains 🙂 Et votre prochain voyage?

Super voyage ! Merci de toutes ces infos.

Ahhhh merci 🙂 Tu prévois d’y aller ?

Waouh, quel voyage magnifique, ça donne envie !

Pari réussi de notre cote alors 😉 Merci beaucoup 🙂

Punaise, tu m’en mets plein les yeux !!! Quel fabuleuse aventure ça a du être !!!

Ohhh c’est trop sympa 🙂 Oui oui c’était incroyable 🙂

Merci pour ce super article ! J’ai pris mes billets pour septembre et j’avais peur d’être limitée côté temps pour voir un max de choses, mais partant un peu plus de 3 semaines, je suis rassurée !! Hâte !!!!!! Merci encore

Ah oui tu auras du temps. Par moment ça sera peut être un peu la course mais plus de 3 semaines c’est top. Tu comptes louer un van?

Rahlala c’est tellement joli la NZ… J’y ai vécu presque 2 ans et j’étais très contente de retourner en Europe après mais j’ai toujours un petit pincement au coeur quand je vois des photos de ce pays magnifique. Vous avez choisi un très beau parcours en tout cas, et c’est cool d’être passé voir la Golden Bay, c’est un super coin qui est souvent laissé de côté dans les road-trip.

Ahh on est tellement d’accord avec toi, ce pays est magnifique 🙂 Et sans indiscrétion, qu’est ce qui t’a ramené en France? Et concernant Golden Bay, oui on voulait absolument y passer et on regrette pas, c’est vraiment un endroit intensément beau, l’un de nos coups de coeur en NZ 🙂

La Nouvelle-zélande c’est génial sur du court terme mais au bout de plusieurs mois j’ai commencé à voir pas mal d’aspects négatifs (distance avec les proches, manque de confort – du genre les maisons n’ont pas de chauffage! -, difficulté de se faire de vrais amis locaux) donc l’Europe me manquait… Par contre ce qui me manque ici c’est le fait de ne faire que quelques kilomètres en dehors de la ville pour avoir le sentiment d’être un explorateur seul au monde!

PAs de chauffage dans les maisons… Mais ca caillotte pourtant l’hiver!!! Donc biensur on vit completement les choses différemment lorsqu’on s’installe à un endroit. TU y es restée combien de temps?

Bonjour Adeline & Tony,

Nous sommes également un couple de jeunes blogueurs de voyages et sommes passionnés par cet univers. Cette semaine nous avons été nommé aux LIEBSTER AWARDS 2017 et comme votre blog est une source d’inspiration pour nous, nous vous avons nommé en retour 😉

https://camilietravel.wordpress.com/2017/02/11/liebster-award-2017-le-jour-ou-nous-avons-gagne-un-award/

– Bonne Continuation –

Oh merci à vous deux c’est adorable 🙂 On est vraiment touché 🙂

c’est sincère 🙂 passez nous rendre visite un de ces jours sur notre bloc ou sur instant 🙂 Bah nne journée !

Avec plaisir. On viendra vous voir 😉

LE voyage de mes rêves !!! Merci pour toutes ces Infos si importantes. On va préparer ça

Genial, vous avez déjà prévu une date de départ?

Je vous ai nominé au Liebster Award pour la qualité de vos articles, vos photos et partage expérience. Nous voyageons à travers votre blog, encore merci

Alors c’est un echange de merci car on est touché. Ca nous fait vraiment plaisir 🙂

Hihi ravie que ça vous touche !! En tout cas continuez à me faire à voyager à travers vos articles

On va essayer de faire ça du mieux qu’on peut alors 😉 Merci

Le rêve! Quel magnifique voyage. Merci pour toutes ces précieuses infos. Un jour peut-être…

Merci à toi pour ce gentil message. On croise les doigts pour que tu aies l’occasion d’y aller alors car c’es magnifique 🙂

Alors là mon envie de partir dans ce beau pays est encore plus grande. Génial de pouvoir suivre votre parcours et d’avoir une vision globale de votre séjour 🙂 Je penserai à vous le jour où j’y partirai pour plusieurs mois 😀 ^^

Et quand tu reviendras n’hésite pas à nous raconter ton séjour 😉

Raaaah mais ça donne tellement envie!!!

Merciiiii 🙂 Il faut dire que c’est genialissime 🙂

Je veux y retourneeeeerrrr ! Tous ces lieux me sont familiers mais ça me manque quand même vachement beaucoup (j’en perds mon latin). Merci pour le shoot de nostalgie ahah !

Avec plaisir! Il faut dire qu’on a VRAIMENT adoré ce pays 🙂 comme toi on dirait 😉

Merci pour ce retour d’expérience. Avant j’avais envie d’un aller, maintenant je voudrais y vivre!!!!! Sinon je suis impressionnée par le prix des billets d’avion, j’imaginais beaucoup plus (peut être avez vous réservé très tôt?). Nous partons pour un Road trip au Canada côté ouest cet été et on est plutôt autour de 1000 euros par personne (réservation faite en octobre). Il nous faudrait encore régler le problème du temps de trajet (on ne part jamais sans nos enfants, et ça risque d’etre un peu long….). Mais je garde ça en tête en tout cas.

Ah oui on les a pris 6 mois en avance et on a mis 40 heures là ou d’autres compagnies proposent 1500 € pour 28 heures de trajet. Nous on a préfére opté pour le moins cher mais avec des enfants… CA change tout 😉

Ça va elles sont pas trop moches vos photos 😉 Sinon j’ai une petite question; pour 1 à 2 semaines de voyage vous conseillez l’île du nord ou du sud ? Et qu’est-ce que vous pensez de l’option faire en stop ? Merci |O|

Elles sont toutes minables ces photos hein 😉 Si vous etes plutôt grande et profonde nature ce sera le sud pour vous 😉 Et selon nous, aucun problème pour faire du stop. les gens la bas sont super sympas 🙂 Vous partez quand?

Nature (et animaux) pour moi oui ! Merci pour vos retours 🙂 Et pas de date, des plans sur la comète juste !

Je vous suit via instagram et votre récit ma drôlement plut ! Jai’trop’envie d’y aller . Les’photos sont sublimes Le budget me semble raisonnable mais bon il va falloir que jattene un peu …gene ma’retraite pour’partir.

Ahhhhh on ne sait pas quel âge tu as mais on suppose que tu risques d ‘attendre quelques année toi 😉 Merci en tous cas 🙂

Juste une petite dizaine c’est pas loin ,sauf si au mois de mai on nous rallonge tout ça ….

Quel super parcours, j’en redemande et quels superbes paysages. C’est simplement magique. C’était pas trop épuisant de voir d’aussi belles choses ?

Ah ah. Merci mais si si tu as raison, on n’en pouvait plus de ces beaux paysages. On se demandait quand on rejoindrait des paysages monotones pour se reposer 😉

Super article! Génial pour nous aider à préparer notre séjour là bas. Les photos sont sublimes. On a aussi trouvé des billets pas cher avec Air China mais on hésite au vu de la réputation de la compagnie… vous en avez pensé quoi ? Vous avez pris un vol interne de Christchurch à Auckland ou votre vol retour directement ?

D’abord félicitations pour votre voyage. C’est top 🙂 Alors Air China c’est pour nous un bilan mitigé. Pour le prix on peut dire que ca marche bien. Par contre les hotesses ne sont pas agréables et la nourriture n’est pas bonne. Peu de films en francais et le confort est identique à d’autres compagnie du meme registre. Et concernant votre deuxieme question, on a pris notre vol retour depuis Christchurch directement 🙂

Merci beaucoup pour vos conseils! Et continuez votre blog, il fait rêver et aide à préparer les voyages.

Merci beaucoup Tifenn, c’est tout juste ce qu’on vise avec ce blog, un peu de reve et beaucoup de partage. Merci alors de nous avoir laissé un message si gentil 🙂

Tout d’abord, felicitation pour ce super blog que vous tenez! Je voulais vous demander si le periple que vous avez fait est il faisable avec un enfant de 4 ans et demi? Je pense que pour Wanaka et Tongariro cela ne sera pas possible car beaucoup de marche. Merci pour vos conseils! Sandra

Coucou Sandra, Alors on n’est pas parents donc garde des reserves sur nos propos mais on pense que si effectivement vous eviter de faire ces randos en entier, vous pouvez partir avec votre petit bout. On dit ca car au moment de recuperer notre Van, des Francais recuperaient le leur. Ils avaient avec eux une petite fille d’environ 5 ans toute contente de dormir avec Papa et maman dans le Van 😉

A man is happy to read this article. A man congratulates for this great writting and useful information. A man will study them the day he will go there. A man dreams to go there with one of the two Stark sisters guess which one? 🙂 But of course it is just a dream to go there with a Stark girl. But it is a real wish to go there on my own or with a sweet lady. So a man thanks you again. And a man promises you he didn’t smoke anything before writing this comments. A man is just in a big big big GOT period.

Merci beaucoup pour ce message (avec ou sans avoir fumé avant 😉 On croise les doigts pour tu puisses y aller avec la fille de tes rêves mais si tu dois y aller seul ce sera aussi un voyage grandiose. LA NZ c’est juste la folie. Magnifique 🙂

Magnifique toutes ces photos !!! bravo ! Mireille de voyagesdicioudailleurs

Merci beaucoup Mireille 🙂 Tu as dej voyagé en NZ?

Magnifique! Quelle est la Meilleure période pour y aller?!

Merci Emma 🙂 Si tu cherches un peu de chaleur alors il faut y aller aux alentours de décembre, c’ets inversé, à cette époque là c’ets l’été la bas. Tu y vas pour faire un itinéraire un peu comme nous?

Vous me faites rêver! Mon rêve ultime est d’aller la bas! Je suis une manga super fan du Hobbit et Seigneur des anneaux… alors aller au village des Hobbits est mon plus grand souhait! Quel magnifique voyage vous avez fait la!

Merci pour ton message. On est conscient d être chanceux d’avoir pu vivre un tel voyage. tu sais ce qu’on va faire? On va croiser fort les doigts pour que tu puisses réaliser ton reve car c’est beau quand ca arrive. On le sait car pour nous aussi c’était un reve d’aller en Nouvelle Zélande 🙂 Sinon, tu voyages peut être un peu moins loin qu’en NZ?

J’en reviens (il y a 4 jours) apres 15 jours incroyable sur l’île du sud (j’ai pas eu la chance de faire l’île du nord) !!! Vos photos me remettent dedans c’est terrible, mais quelle aventure ! Un voyage incroyable, des paysages de fou ! Je ne peux que le recommander ! Ps : j’ai fait partie de ces chanceux qui ont pu voir lion de mer, pingouins et dauphins à milford

Waouh! 15 jours sur l’ile du sud c’ets deja incroyable et en plus t’as vu le lion de mer… On te parle plus 😉 C’ets quoi pour toi le moment le plus fort de ton voyage d’ailleurs?

Super blog et magnifiques photos ! Vous nous faites vraiment rêver. Vos vidéos sur ELLE sont tops. Merci en tout cas de nous avoir fait partager votre expérience et merci pour vos conseils. Je pars dans un an en NZ avec 2 potes et on envisage des randos et un roadtrip en bus afin de faire les 2 îles, on prépare notre voyage et votre blog nous aide beaucoup. Merci encore.

Oh trop chouette. un grand merci pour ton retour si gentil. Tu vas adorer la NZ on en est sur 😉 N’hésite pas si tu as besoin de plus d’infos pour ton voyage 🙂

C’est super! Cette destination est certainement dans notre Top 10. On planifie 3 semaines de vacances l’hiver prochain en Australie et Nouvelle Calédonie. Malheureusement, on devra oublier la Nouvelle-Zélande pour cette fois. Tes conseils sont très appréciés. Merci!

Merci beaucoup pour ce retour 🙂 C’est adorable. De notre côté c’est la Nouvelle Caledonie désormais qui nous fait de l’oeil. Vous allez vivre quelque chose d’incroyable on dirait 🙂 Si besoin, on a actualisé l’article auquel on a intégré une carte interactive. CA peut être utile pour se préparer 🙂

Hello, Quel bel article ! J’envisage p-e de faire un PVT en Nouvelle Zélande. Suite à votre expérience quelle destination auriez-vous tendance à privilégier entre Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington ? Pour y rester un moment pour travailler avant de partir voyager ? A bientôt !

Coucou, super projet dis donc. Bravo car il faut avoir le courage de se lancer. Dans ta sélection on n’a pas bien fait wellington alors on ne peut pas comparer mais selon nous Auckland c’est top car c’est assez animé, plus grand que Christchurch et tu auras des départs d’avion moins chers. Par contre Christchurch se refait une beauté se rajeunit. Son centre est chouette et atypique. Ca nous a plu aussi. Par contre, si on avait dû s’installer quelque parte en NZ ça aurait Queenstown. Magnifique, vivant, jeune… Tu y as pensé?

Très bel article qui donne vraiment envie d’aller en Nouvelle Zélande. Ah si ce n’était pas si loin!

Merci Jean et tu as raison c’est vraiment trèèèèèèès loin! Et pas donné pour y aller. Mais après le voyage est fou. Un concentré de folie. C’est quoi ton plus beau voyage a ce jour?

Article à conserver précieusement dans mes favoris jusqu’à ce que je me décide à prendre mes billets d’avion pour cette destination. Merci beaucoup !!!

Ahhh ben la voila la réponse à notre question 😉 Tu as tellement raison d’y penser 🙂

Wow Magnifique ça fait rêver. Vous êtes partis à quelle période ? Ps vitre blog est top

Merci Lisa 🙂 On est parti entre Decembre et Janvier. Tu es tentée?

J ai vécu en Australie auparavant et mes collocs étaient néo Zélandais donc oui ça fait un petit moment qu on est tente mais le prix du billet d avion à été prohibitif plus d une fois. Merci pour le blog qui est super sympa

Quelle super expérience! Ca devait être super de vivre un telle expérience. Et c’est vrai que les prix sont terribles. Ca peut largement empecher de faire le voyage on le comprend tout a fait!

Bonjour! Je suis une étudiante du lycée IES Schamann, c’est á Gran Canaria, j’habite á la capitale. J’ai adoré votre blog, c’est très magnifique! Nouvelle- Zélande est très belle! Je voudrais visiter l’Hobbiton parce que j’ai beaucoup adoré le film. Je ne suis pas sortie de l’Esppagne, mais je vais visiter Édimbourg cet été. Si vous pouvez me donner un conseil, je vous en remercie, Merci beaucoup pour votre attention. Au revoir!

Coucou Ariadna,

Merci pour ton message si gentil. On ne peut pas te conseiller sur Edimbourg, on ne connait pas mais ça nous donne bien envie. CA a l’air très joli 🙂 Pour Hobbiton, on te souhaite d’y aller. Le site est superbe et plein de magie 🙂

Super article encore, ça donne envie d’y aller !

Ah super! merci pour ce gentil retour. Tu comptes y aller?

Je n’en avais pas l’intention pour l’instant mais c’est très tentant vu comme ça 🙂

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Super article et très beau voyage ! Ça donne clairement envie d’y aller. Avec ma femme, on compte y aller en 2018 et on se prépare tout doucement. Par contre, ma femme étant instit, on ne peut y aller qu’en Juillet… Et oui. J’imagine que la question a déjà été posée, mais est-ce vraiment si terrible que ça d’y aller en Juillet en NZ ? J’avoue, on n’a pas trop le choix mais bon… N’est-ce pas comme visiter des jolis coins en France en Automne/hiver?

Coucou Jérome, Merci pour ton retour. On n’a pas fait la NZ en Juillet mais apparemment ça se fait surtout si vous logez en hôtel plutôt qu’en Van car là, on ne vous le conseillerait pas vraiment. Déjà nous en Décembre on a eu un peu froid certaines soirées et nuits. Voilà on simplement ce qu’on peut t’en dire 🙂

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Bonjour 🙂 Ce blog est une pépite, votre voyage a du être fabuleux, awesome 😛 Je crois que je viens de trouver exactement ce que je cherchais ! Pourquoi ? C’est justement ce qu’on envisage de faire : voyage de 3 semaines entre fin décembre 2018 et début Janvier 2019 ! Or, si j’ai bien lu, je crois que c’est exactement cela. Avec peut-être un bonus d’une semaine farniente dans une île avant de rentrer mais focalisons nous déjà sur ces 3 semaines 🙂 Je vais bien m’intéresser en détails à toutes ces informations. Comment procéder si jamais pour avoir une petite discussion plus précise ? (mail ou autres..) En tout cas, bravo pour votre blog et ce super article 😉

Super Charles si ça peut t’être utile! tu vas vivre un voyage incroyable. En tous cas pour nous c’est un souvenir impérissable. Vous avez raison de rester une semaine de plus pour le farniente 😉 Petit conseil, prévoyez peut être quelques jours de plus que nous à Abel Tasman c’est fabuleux 🙂

Super votre blog !! je suis en pleine construction de notre itinéraire (départ prévu mi-janvier), ça m’aide beaucoup ! Photos + articles au top !!! merci à vous 😉

Merci Isabelle pour ton retour. C’est sympa car si on bosse autant sur nos articles c’est pour que ça puisse aider d’autres voyageurs comme nous à prévoir leur voyage 🙂 Merci encore

Bonjour et bravo pour votre article inspirant. Nous envisageons de partir en Novembre 2018 pour 15 jours. Votre blog va m’aider à faire l’itinéraire même s’il me semble deja difficile de faire le tri!!!… Justine

Coucou Justine 🙂 Oh oui ça va être ça le plus dur… Faire des choix car TOUT est exceptionnel 😉 Bon courage et attention la bas, tu vas plus vouloir rentrer 😉

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Un petit coucou et un gand bravo pour ce joli parcours. Nou partons pour 3 semaines en couple en mars 2018, et votre itineraire va m’inspirer meme si nous le ferons de christchurch a auckland.. Chapeau pour ce mini budget ( avec essence et bouffe et toutes vos sorties parc/activites ? ). Je pense opter pour ûne voiture et le combo auberge,air bnb.. Au plaisir de vous lire

Oui si vous avez le budget c’est pas mal non plus d’avoir hôtel et airbnb, même si on ne se plaint pas car on dormait très bien dans le van! Bon voyage en tout cas 😉

Bjr et magnifique voyage. Whaou! Nous partons en Nouvelle Zélande 23 jours en Mars, est ce qu’il y a des choses que vous n’avez pas eu le temps de faire en 3 semaines et que vous auriez aimé faire, ou ce que vous nous conseillez de faire avec nos 5 jours en plus. Merci d’avance

Hello! Avec 5 jours en plus, je serai surement allée au nord d’Auckland pour voir les dunes de sables .. Ou bien passer un peu plus de temps à Wanaka que j’ai adoré! Amusez vous bien 🙂

Tout d’abord bravo pour ce magnifique blog et voyage ! On s’en inspire pour essayer d’organiser le nôtre en mars (ou je dis « essayer » car le départ étant prévu dans 2 mois cela risque d’être chaud mais bon qui ne tente rien…). Question du jour du coup : si c’était à refaire sur la même durée, que changeriez vous (ou pas) dans votre circuit ?

Bonne année pleine de beaux voyage ! 🙂

Dur dur comme question, je serais tenté de dire que j’essaierais peut être de faire un peu moins de chose car le rythme était vraiment intense .. Mais une fois sur place on a tellement envie de tout voir qu’on court partout c’est normal! Bon courage pour l’organisation 🙂

Super article et photos magnifique ! Nous prévoyons d’y aller avec un ami. J’ai peut-être râté l’info mais à quelle période de l’année êtes-vous partis ? Avez-vous des conseils quant aux bons moments pour y aller ? Merci !

Je vous conseille d’y aller en été! C’est à dire l’hiver pour nous, en décembre / Janvier 🙂 Il fait beau, mais prenez quand même des vêtements pour le froid parce qu’il ne fait pas si chaud que ça!

Bonsoir ! Je vous suis sur Instagram, ayant aussi le voyage pour passion, et je projette de partir en Nouvelle Zélande pour un road trip de trois semaines. J’ai peut-être loupé l’info, mais à quelle date êtes vous partis la bas ? 🙂

Quelle période me conseillez vous ?

Continuez comme ça !!!

Merci beaucoup 🙂 C’est une excellente idée de partir en Nouvelle Zélande!! Je vous conseille d’y aller en été! C’est à dire l’hiver pour nous, en décembre / Janvier 🙂 Il fait beau, mais prenez quand même des vêtements pour le froid parce qu’il ne fait pas si chaud que ça!

super voyage qui donne vraiment envie. A quelle période de l’année y êtes-vous allés ? On veut y aller pour notre voyage de noce. ^^

Super idée de faire ce voyage pour votre voyage de noces, c’est une véritable aventure 🙂 Je vous conseille d’y aller en été! C’est à dire l’hiver pour nous, en décembre / Janvier 🙂 Il fait beau, mais prenez quand même des vêtements pour le froid parce qu’il ne fait pas si chaud que ça!

Des infos pratiques, complètes et précises avec un brin d’humour . Des belles photos ainsi que des réponses systématiques aux commentaires.. Je suis tombé sur le blog idéal là! Je vais beaucoup me fier à vos conseils ! Je vais avec mon meilleur ami en octobre en NZ pour 2 semaines ou 3.. peut être on se concentrera sur l ile du Sud , elle a l’air de mieux correspondre à nos attentes ( grand paysage imposant ) .

Merci encore , Je me vais de ce pas découvrir le reste de votre blog. Vous pouvez en être fière 🙂

Merci pour ce commentaire c’est adorable 🙂 L’île du sud est sublime, mais bon comme l’île du nord alors c’est dur de choisir! Je vous souhaite à tous les deux un bon voyage en tous cas!!

Bel itinéraire de voyage. Vous avez fait beaucoup des incontournables de Nouvelle-Zélande durant ce voyage. J’y suis rester plusieurs mois et malheureusement je n’ai pas pu faire Kaikoura à cause de la route fermée (du au tremblement de terre). Ca me donne une bonne raison d’y retourner.

Dommage c’était vraiment top Kaikoura! J’espère que tu pourras y retourner 😉

Hello, Super votre itinéraire ! Nous avons pour projet de partir en NZ pendant un mois en janvier. J’ai vu que vous étiez passé’ par « Happy Campers » pour le van. Quels sont tes avis ? Est ce une bonne agence pour louer un van ? Et aviez vous pris une assurance avec ? Merci pour ton retour Adeline 🙂

Top pour votre voyage en prévision, je n’ai plus le nom de la compagnie en tête, mais je me souviens avoir pris l’assurance, parce que la franchise était ultra chère sinon .. En plus ils te dépannent n’importe ou sur les 2 îles en cas de souci 😉

Super compte rendu, magnifique ! Je vais piocher quelques idées pour notre voyage en décembre ! Vous avez pris un van pour pouvoir y dormir ? On hésite à prendre une simple voiture + tente en fait … j’aimerai bien avoir votre avis . Merci !

Hello! Oui on était en Van pour y dormir, c’est une question de goût, mais moi je suis plutôt frileuse, et on ne va pas se mentir, l’été en Nouvelle-Zélande, ce n’est pas l’été en France, il fait quand même un peu froid! Après, c’est loin d’être insurmontable.. Mais vu qu’on bougeait tous les jours, on trouvait ca plus simple aussi de ne pas avoir à monter un campement tous les soirs … En tout cas je vous souhaite un excellent voyage 😉

Merci d’avoir répondu aussi vite ! On compte alterner camping et Air Bnb, comme ça on pourra se réchauffer à un moment ☺️

Génial votre blog, j’adore ! Nous partons en Nouvelle Zélande 3 semaines en Décembre en van self-contained. Est ce que c’est à cette période que vous y êtes allés?

Merci beaucoup Mélanie 🙂 Oui je l’ai fait à cette période, à cheval sur Décembre et Janvier, la meilleure période pour partir en van, même si du coup c’est la plus touristique … Je vous souhaite un excellent voyage la bas, vous ne pouvez qu’aimer de toutes façons 😉

Wahou il a l’air super cet itinéraire, merci pour les conseils. On prépare notre voyage de noces au pays des kiwis et on cherche un maximum d’informations. On pensait faire une île en van et l’autre en Airbnb + voiture mais on ne sait pas encore trop, le budget monte vite aussi, on cherche, on cherche 😉 Ce n’était pas un peu speed avec les heures de routes que tu avais prévu ?

Super périple en 3 semaines ! Nous avons fais un peu la même chose mais en 3 mois l’année dernière. Ça me rappelle de super souvenirs 😉

Ohlala sur 3 mois!!! Quelle chance ca devait être incroyable 🙂 En 3 semaines il y avait beaucoup de route chaque jour quand même…

Salut, On adore votre article, super intéressant et super enrichissant pour les amoureux de Road Trip. Mon compagnons et moi, aimerai te faire un Road Trip en nouvelle Zélande Petite question: combien cela vous a coûter le van pour 3 semaines ? ( si c’est pas trop indiscret ) La vie est elle cher la bas ? Merciii pour vos réponses À bientôt

Hello! Oui la vie est plutôt chère la bas, on n’est pas en Asie du sud est 🙂 Pour le Van environ 2700 dollars pour 3 semaines il me semble … Si je ne dis pas de bêtise parce que je ressors ce chiffre de tête! Je chercherai le montant exact …

• Ping : Les 10 commandements d'un voyage en Nouvelle Zélande | On met les voiles | Blog voyage

Salut, On termine notre tour du monde dans 2 mois. Notre famille se dirige prochainement vers la Nouvelle Zélande pour 3 semaines. Avant une installation en Polynésie. Merci pour votre blog. C’est super.

Je rajoute juste que free fait un forfait sans engagement à 20€/ mois avec 25Go et appels et sms illimités en NZ et vers la France. (Plus toute une liste de pays). Le forfait est super intéressant.

Bon voyage à tous.

Top, c’est bon à savoir 😉 Profitez bien de votre fin de tour du monde!

Hello! Merci pour votre article, on est en préparation voyage de noces en NZ pour 3 semaines en Mars et on se pose pas mal de questions! Notamment l’avion, on se demande combien de temps à l’avance vous avez réservé car on aurait aimé faire Paris-Auckland puis Christchurch-Paris mais cela revient à faire deux allers-simples et ça fait doubler le budget billets! Aviez-vous utilisé un comparateur particulier? On est adeptes de skyscanner / momondo / kayak… En tout cas, vos photos nous ont fait rêver et on a super hâte d’y aller… quand on aura acheté nos billets xD

Hello! Pour le billet j’ai pris un aller retour Paris/Auckland, et au retour j’ai ajouté un vol Chrischurch/Auckland voila l’astuce 😉 Et il me semble que j’étais passée par Liligo comme comparateur. Bonne organisation 🙂

• Ping : Road-trip en Nouvelle-Zélande : pays du long nuage blanc | Road-trip toujours

Bonjour, Merci pour cet article qui m’aide beaucoup dans la préparation de mon voyage. Je suis sur Auckland, j’y reste pour bosser 2/3 mois. Ensuite je commence le grand voyage. Je voyage seule, et ni tente, ni van dans mes projets. Concernant les quelques jours au au Parc Abel Tasman j’ai quelques questions :

– Concernant les fameux taxi boat environ 35$ pour se rendre sur une plage. Aller simple ? Comment ça fonctionne pour rentrer (question peut être bête mais, y a t il des taxi boat qui « tournent régulièrement » pour le retour ? L’aller retour est peut être accessible en marchant ? – Y a t il des randonnées sympathiques mais sur une journée ou demi journée que tu pourrais me conseiller ? – Selon toi, le mieux/pratique est il de loger à Motueka ? Des départs de randonnées sont ils indiqués facilement à ce point là ?

Désolé ça fait beaucoup de questions, mais si tu as un moment pour me répondre ça serait formidable !! 🙂 Je lis beaucoup de choses sur les différents supports… mais tes explications sont synthétisées et claires ! Ce dont j’ai besoin 🙂

Merci d’avance Lisa

Hello! Top pour ton voyage à venir 🙂 Alors : – Dans mes souvenirs, oui il y a des bateaux qui tournent régulièrement, sinon l’idée c’est justement de rentrer en randonnée. Mais tu peux tout à fait le faire en rando aller/retour – Pour Abel Tasman, j’ai fait que la randonnée dont je parle dans l’article donc je peux rien te conseiller d’autre… Si j’avais su j’y serais restée plus longtemps perso 🙂 Et enfin, toutes les randonnées se font depuis l’entrée du parc ou il y a un grand bureau de renseignements, c’est la que tu auras toutes les infos. Profites bien!

Et bonjour !! En pleine préparation de mon périple sur l’île du sud et franchement MERCI pour cette article de qualité et toutes les infos pratiques !! Et j’aime beaucoup le ton de rédaction, très plaisant ! Donc voila juste pour dire merci ☺️ ! Audrey

Oooh merci c’est adorable!! Profite bien de ton voyage, l’île du sud est INCROYABLE <3

Salut ! Bravo pour ce beau reportage ! Du coup je pense y aller 3 semaines vers mi-mars. Est il possible de partir a l’aventure comme vous (ou presque), mais en voiture + AirBnB ou mobil-home ? On n’est pas super fan des campings.

Hello! Oui c’est tout à fait possible, c’est juste que c’est pas le même prix 🙂

Bonjour Adeline, Nous commençons à regarder pour partir en NZ en novembre ! Ton article est super pour un guide sur 3 semaines ! Petite question : avec Happycamper, avec vous changer de van entre les deux iles ? ou avec vous payés 220 dollars de traversé pour le van ?

Hello! J’avais payé pour traverser, c’était cher mais beaucoup plus simple que de changer de van 😉

Sympa votre itinéraire et les photos sont vraiment jolies. J’avais fait a peu près le même trajet et je valide 🙂

Merci beaucoup 🙂

Nous avions eu un aperçu mais avec votre article nous sommes plus que conquis ! c’est splendide nous avons prévu d’y aller de fin décembre 2019 à mi janvier 2020 (soit 3 semaines sur places) avec nos enfants qui auront 3 et 6 ans. Nous pensions ne faire que l’ile du sud mais à lire votre article nous avons envie de faire les 2 car ce sera notre seul voyage en nouvelle Zélande ! QU’en pensez vous? est -ce envisageable d’apres vous ou ça fait vraiment trop speed avec des enfants?

Hello! Tout d’abord Merci 🙂 Cependant un peu dure de répondre sachant que je n’ai pas d’enfant, le rythme était un peu speed oui, on roulait parfois un peu le soir, après vous pouvez peut être supprimer une étape ou deux … En tout cas je vous souhaite un excellent voyage!

Bonjour, je viens de voir votre site Je prévois de partir avec mon épouse pour 3 semaines en NZ Fin mars à quelle période êtes vous parti ?? Jean-Luc

Bonjour, je suis partie 3 semaines à cheval sur décembre et janvier 🙂

Tout d’abord un gros bravo pour le travail accompli. Nous (deux adultes) comptons partir 4 semaines en NZ entre février et décembre. Ma fille habite là-bas depuis 5 ans et va fêter ses 30 ans… Nous avons prévu de faire un road trip de 18 à 20j. J’ai regardé le prix d’un van self contained. C’est toujours trouvable à 1500€, voire un chouia moins si on prend un very old school… Si on rajoute les arrêts payants dans les campings (quand il n’est pas possible de dormir n’importe où) on arrive à 1700€ + l’essence Comparativement, une voiture « normale » se trouve à 400€. On a donc un différentiel de 1300 + une consommation moindre. Et si on divise ces 1300 par 20 jours, ça fait un budget de 65€ pour auberge / Airbnb. Vous me suivez toujours ? 🙂

Du coup, la solution car + auberge/hotel n’est pas dénuée d’intérêt non ? ( Si ce n’est que dans le van on peut se faire à manger. Dans l’autre cas, c’est plus de resto)

Hello Eric, oui ca se réfléchit en fonction de vos besoins 🙂 Pour notre part, on aimait beaucoup l’idée de pouvoir adapter le programme selon nos envies, conduire quand on en avait envie, s’arrêter quand on était fatigué, donc l’idée du van nous a séduit. Mais effectivement vous pouvez faire autrement 🙂

Un petit message pour te dire que nous partons ce vendredi 1er en NZ pour 3 semaines ! Merci pour ton article car je me se beaucoup inspiré pour tracer notre itinéraire !

Vous devez être en plein milieu de votre voyage 🙂 J’espère que tout se passe bien pour vous!! Il faudra me raconter…

Bonjour, bravo pour blog qui donne plein d’envies ! Justement le trek TONGARINO CROSSING nous fait très très envie, (nous serons en NZ fin mars), le problème est que j’ai le vertige (vraiment…) , te souviens tu si c’est faisable : pas de chemin étroit , d’à pic vertigineux ….merci beaucoup

ca dépend ton niveau de vertige, mais je l’ai fait avec quelqu’un se sensible à ca, et il y a un passage (la grande descente avant les 3 lacs turquoises) ou il s’est senti mal… Bon il l’a fait, mais voila il y a peut être un petit passage sensible 🙂

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Travel blog: Zeeland, the Netherlands

• annetravelfoodie on November 1, 2020

Zeeland is the most South-Western province in the Netherlands. It’s a very popular tourist destination as it has many miles of beaches and nice beach towns. On this page I’m sharing my travel blog on Zeeland, the Netherlands. The province Zeeland is divided in several islands and peninsula’s. My favorite is the region called Walcheren. Here you find three nice cities, that I’ll describe in this travel blog: Middelburg, Domburg and Vlissingen.

Middelburg is the biggest city of Walcheren and the capital city of Zeeland. It’s a great city with many restaurants and shops. I can walk around Middelburg for hours, there are so many lovely streets!

It almost looks photoshopped but it isn’t, this was a summer evening in Middelburg. Middelburg has a lovely harbour, where I took this picture. The picture at the top of this page is also the harbour in Middelburg, but then in the morning.

The only downside of Middelburg is that it isn’t located at the beach. Vlissingen, just a short ride south of Middelburg, does have a beach. It’s a lovely little town with several restaurants, a nice harbour and a boardwalk.

Click here to read more on Vlissingen.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Zeeland, I recommend Boulevard17 in Vlissingen. They’ve got beautiful suites overlooking the sea. The hotel is brand-new and the rooms are super comfortable. Click here to read more about Boulevard17 in Vlissingen .

My travel blog on Zeeland continues with Domburg. Domburg is mostly known for its large beach. It has a long strip of soft white sand beach. I also love the pastel colored beach houses. Here you see me in Domburg when I just got back from a trip to Ibiza and I was really tanned.

My favorite restaurant in Domburg is beach restaurant Oase. They’re open for lunch, snacks and dinner. You can sit inside or on their terrace, depending on the weather.

Another nice spot at the beach is beach pavilion De Stenen Toko. After a day on the beach you can roll straight in. I had this veggie burger there.

Hulst is a small city in Zeeuws Vlaanderen, the bottom part of Zeeland. It’s an old fortified town with several nice shops and restaurants. You can walk the ramparts surrounding the town when you feel like a nice walk with views over the town and the water. You can also visit the Drowned Land of Saeftinghe. A piece of land between water and sea that used to be inhabited.

For lunch I recommend Koffiebar de Beleving. They’ve got sandwiches, soups and grilled cheese, and above all a nice atmosphere. You can also go for coffee, tea and cakes or book a high tea. My favorite sandwich is the vegetarian version of De Beleving as you see pictured above.

For dinner I recommend restaurant Het Bonte Hert. Good vegetarian restaurants are hard to find in Hulst, but restaurant Het Bonte Hert has 4 great vegetarian dishes on their dinner menu. The camembert from the oven is delicious. But my favorite is the fettuccini with mushrooms.

Looking for a nice holiday home in Hulst? I recommend Zeekraal Vakantiewoning. It’s a lovely house just outside of Hulst that sleeps 6 adults (and optionally a baby). It’s got a comfortable living room, a kitchen that has everything you need, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an infra-red sauna and a big lawn. Click here to read more about Zeekraal Vakantiewoningen.

Click here for all my favorite restaurants in the Netherlands.

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Holiday in Zeeland

Whether it’s for a weekend stay, a city trip or a longer, more leisurely break, a holiday in Zeeland is always a good idea, not just in the summer. Zeeland has much to offer throughout the rest of the year. As well as some lively festivals, breath-taking scenery and magnificent beaches, you can also discover vibrant historic towns, spa retreats and many culinary highlights. There’s never a dull moment!

Looking for inspiration?

To make things easier, we’ve put together some season-themed pages for your holiday in Zeeland. Just choose the season you want to come to Zeeland and we’ll provide you with some inspiration.

Whether it’s a weekend away, a city trip , a midweek stay or a longer holiday you have in mind, there’s so much to see and do, you’ll be able to tailor your wishes to create the perfect visit. If you’re looking for how you can best prepare plans for a trip to Zeeland, well, you’ve come to the right place!

Choose your favourite season

From frolicking lambs in the fields and spectacular blossom in the orchards of Zuid-Beveland to towns basking in the spring sunshine: Zeeland in springtime is magical. The countryside comes alive with birdsong. Why not experience the waters of the Oosterschelde on a cruise or a ramble?

Home to some fabulous festivals and events, Zeeland can be enjoyed from the water or in town. Why not challenge yourself to one of the many watersports? With its 600 kilometres of sun-drenched coastline, its many waterside bars and restaurants and fun-packed events, what more could you want from summer in Zeeland?

After the heady days of summer, this is a time when peace gradually returns: the leaves take on warmer tones, mushrooms of every shape and colour push their way through the undergrowth and animals lose their timidity. 😉 In town, you can enjoy some fine dining in top-notch restaurants, savour some culture and take time out shopping. Or perhaps you’d prefer the solitude of Zeeland’s forests in search of wildlife?

Zeeland’s towns and villages come alive with their festive lights and their snug, warm bars and eateries. The beach pavilions will welcome you with open arms after an invigorating winter walk. Recharge your batteries with a countryside ramble and revive yourself in a relaxing spa or sauna. The winter provides a combination of warmth, intimacy and geniality.

Not found what you were looking for?

You can find more inspiration here ....

• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 4.2 By train
• 5.1 By bicycle
• 5.3 By ferry
• 5.4 By train

Zeeland is a province of the Netherlands consisting of islands and peninsulas interconnected by the dams and bridges of the Delta Works ( Deltawerken ). Translated into English, Zeeland literally means "Sea Land" because that's basically what it is. The capital city is Middelburg . The area is very flat making it ideal terrain for cycling.

Cities [ edit ]

• 51.499 3.616 1 Middelburg — the capital city of Zeeland with a historic heritage
• 51.5625 3.4964 2 Domburg — one of the oldest coastal resort towns in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful beaches, dunes, and lush forests
• 51.503 3.892 3 Goes — old city on the peninsula Zuid-Beveland
• 51.28 4.05278 4 Hulst — historic fortified city near the border with Belgium, the finest and best-preserved one in Zeeland
• 51.311 3.386 5 Sluis — cute little city close to the border with Belgium
• 51.326 3.839 6 Terneuzen — a seaport in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
• 51.535 4.225 7 Tholen — the double peninsula of Tholen
• 51.46 3.572 8 Vlissingen — port town with windy beaches, cycling opportunities and seafood
• 51.528 3.442 9 Westkapelle — small village on the most western point of Walcheren
• 51.654 3.919 10 Zierikzee — a relatively small historic town with many protected monuments.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 51.65 3.72 1 Delta Works — the dams and sluices that protect the land masses of Zeeland
• 51.353611 4.165 2 Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe - A nature reserve located on the Dutch-Belgian border. The larger part of which is located in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.

Understand [ edit ]

Zeeland is the second Dutch province when counting on reclaimed land, following behind Flevoland , which was fully reclaimed from the Zuiderzee . Zeeland historically consisted of tens of islands, which, at spring tides, would flood. Much of the land in Zeeland is polderland , land reclaimed from the sea. In 1953, however, a very large spring tide and a northwest storm combined to flood most of the province. It wasn't long before the Dutch government started the Delta Works to protect the province so that such a disaster could not happen again. The Delta Works consisted of building large dams connecting the most western points of the province's peninsulas. Along with this, many dikes were raised. The Delta Works now connect up to Rotterdam in South Holland , and made Zeeland into a safe location to visit, and many Dutch, Belgian and German tourists do so.

New Zealand , which was discovered by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642, is named after this very province.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Zeeland is in the south-west of the country. While all the islands are interconnected and connected to the mainland by fast roads now, the province still retains a somewhat insular nature. On summer days major roads may become busy since there are no good alternatives for them.

By train [ edit ]

Zeeland has only one railway line, extending from Bergen op Zoom and Roosendaal in North Brabant to Middelburg and Vlissingen . There is only one train service on this line, the Intercity 2600 that connects the abovementioned stations directly to the Schiphol Airport , and the most important destinations in South Holland , North Holland and Flevoland , i.a., Rotterdam , Delft , the Hague , Leiden , Amsterdam , Almere and Lelystad . The Intercity runs every half an hour.

By air [ edit ]

Zeeland has no airports with scheduled passenger service. The easiest way to arrive in Zeeland by air is by landing at Schiphol Airport and taking the abovementioned Intercity train. An alternative is Rotterdam the Hague airport , which has a more indirect connection to the said railway line.

You can also approach Zeeland from Belgium . Antwerp is right next to Zeeland's southern region of Zeeuws-Vlanderen , but its small airport sees very limited passenger service. The Brussels Airport has many more connections, but no direct public transit options to Zeeland.

Private aviation pilots may try landing at the Midden-Zeeland Airport in Middelburg , which has a single grass runway of 1 km.

Get around [ edit ]

By bicycle [ edit ]

As almost everywhere in The Netherlands exploring on bike is a good idea. There is an excellent infrastructure of cycle paths. Signed bicycle routes along points (Dutch: Knooppuntennetwerk ) allow you to set up your own route through the beautiful landscape.

By bus [ edit ]

Connexxion operates a good bus network in all of the province, although some services are reduced in terms of frequency or routes in the weekend and late nights. Use 9292 [dead link] to plan your travel via public transport.

By ferry [ edit ]

A fast ferry for pedestrian and cyclist only is being operated by Veolia between Vlissingen and Breskens .

NS , the national railway, provide frequent connections between Vlissingen, Middelburg, Goes and some smaller towns.

See [ edit ]

• The Oosterschelde storm surge barrier, a massive operable sea dam with an artificial island at its center.
• When you're really interested in this Oosterscheldekering you can visit Neeltje Jans . This is an attraction park where you learn everything about water and the Delta Works ( Deltawerken ).
• Veerse Meer -This is a lake or inland lagoon that was closed off to the sea in 1961. See w:Veerse_Meer .

Do [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], drink [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

• Ouddorp : if you are interested in trains, there is a tramway museum here. http://www.rtm-ouddorp.nl/ .

• Has custom banner
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• Has map markers
• Articles with dead external links
• Outline regions
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• Has Geo parameter
• Southern Netherlands
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

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2 Weeks in New Zealand Itinerary: 14 Days of Adventure, Scenery and Culture

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New Zealand was one of our family’s most memorable stops on our gap year, and one of the longest as well: we spent 6 weeks exploring the best of Aotearoa. Since most visitors can’t spare that much time, we’ve partnered with local expert Veronika of Go Ask A Local to share her top picks for a 2 week New Zealand itinerary.

That reflects the typical time most visitors have to explore, and it’s enough to give you a wonderful taste! You won’t see everything (even we couldn’t!) but you will enjoy many of the best places to visit in New Zealand. In this 14 day itinerary for New Zealand we’ve tried to give as much detail as you need to plan your own adventure, including where to stay, transportation and a mix of free and paid top New Zealand activities.

There’s so much to see and do here that one trip will never be enough to experience it all, but this comprehensive 14 day New Zealand itinerary covers a lot of ground and gives a perfect introduction to my country. Enjoy!

As you can see below, the basic structure is a four day NZ North Island road trip followed by a 10 day South Island New Zealand itinerary.

14 Day New Zealand Itinerary overview

Here’s a quick overview of your 14 day New Zealand itinerary, including quick booking links to expedite your travel planning. You don’t need to do every one of these activities, but choose the ones that excite you! Be sure to book your car , lodgings and must-do New Zealand activities well in advance so you don’t miss out.

• Pick up rental car at AKL
• 1 night hotel in Auckland CBD
• All Blacks Experience

Stay 3 nights in Rotorua

• Waitomo Cave or Glowing Adventures small group caving tour
• Hobbiton evening banquet tour
• Tamaki Maori Village (evening)
• Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland
• Return rental car at ROT
• Fly from Rotorua to Christchurch

Stay 2 nights in Christchurch

• Pick up rental car at CHC
• Christchurch Bike Tour
• Waka on Avon
• Akaroa wildlife tour
• Stay 2 nights in Mt Cook Village
• Dark Sky Project
• Top of Tasman flight/glacier hike
• Stay 2 nights (potentially 3) in Queenstown
• Bike the Central Otago Rail Trail
• Jet boat & hike
• Waterfall climbing
• Stay 2 nights Te Anau
• Glow Worm cave
• Off-roading and jet boat
• Milford Sound cruise with Southern Discoveries or RealNZ
• Milford Sound kayaking tour
• Stay 1 night in Queenstown (unless you’ve modified itinerary as below)
• Return rental car at ZQN

Detailed 2 Week New Zealand Itinerary

New zealand itinerary day 1: auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland

Overview of the city

Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, our largest and most diverse city. The Auckland region is dotted with 48 volcanic cones which provide spectacular panoramic views of the city and harbour. Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park encompasses an incredible 1.2 million hectares of coast, sea and islands – and you have myriad ways to explore it.

The jewel of the Hauraki Gulf is Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves, farm land, and golden beaches. Auckland is also a shopper’s paradise with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. 

For foodies, you can discover the diverse range of cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from around the globe and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart precinct and City Works Depot.

Upon arrival in Auckland, you’ll want to pick up your rental car at the Auckland airport. That’ll give you the most flexibility to explore the city and enable an early morning tomorrow. Just be prepared for the city’s terrible traffic!

Where to stay in Auckland

You’ll be staying just one night in Auckland. To make the most of your limited time exploring the city, stay in the Auckland CBD . Here are some great options to research for where to stay in Auckland your first night:

• Fable Auckland, MGallery
• Crowne Plaza Auckland
• SkyCity Hotel
• Mövenpick Hotel Auckland

Things to do in Auckland

Viaduct Auckland : Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, Viaduct Harbour is a residential, commercial and entertainment precinct. Viaduct Harbour boasts some of Auckland’s finest restaurants and bars, from fresh seafood at Kermadec Ocean Fresh Restaurant, to the ever-popular bar and restaurant Waterfront, the lively atmosphere at O’Hagans to a stylish dining experience at Soul. Regardless of where you dine, you can count on being seated overlooking the water while sipping fine wine and enjoying terrific food. 

All Blacks Experience : Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 45 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka, up close and personal. You can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in a hands on, interactive zone.

Britomart : This is a vibrant shopping, entertainment and business precinct in the heart of downtown Auckland. Surrounded by beautiful heritage buildings, it’s a neighbourhood of buzzing restaurants and cool bars, designer boutiques and quirky art spaces. You’ll find cutting-edge street fashion and the HQs of some of New Zealand’s leading creative and corporate organisations. Plus, the best of downtown waterfront Auckland is just outside your front door. If you’re feeling hungry, you have fresh Italian fare, authentic Vietnamese, best-in-class coffee, and delicious desserts all in one place. 

Read more: 10 tips you need to read before you visit New Zealand

New Zealand Itinerary Day 2: Auckland – Waikato – Rotorua

Driving distance: 3 hours (without stops)

One of the richest agricultural and pastoral areas of the world, the Waikato is home to New Zealand’s famous dairy and thoroughbred horse racing industries and is a base for a number of agri-businesses and research institutes. Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.

Where to stay in Rotorua

You’ll be staying 3 nights in Rotorua, which is potentially the longest stop you’ll have on this action-packed 2 week New Zealand itinerary. If you’re normally inclined to stay in vacation rentals for the extra space, creature comforts and laundry then this is the best time to do it!

You’ll be driving around the region so it’s not critical to stay in the center of town. That said, town has a bustling scene especially along Eat Streat.

• Lakeside cottage with full laundry – sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms, beautifully appointed with amazing views
• Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua – beautiful lakeside hotel with indoor pool, cultural shows and a variety of room sizeas
• Best Western Braeside Rotorua – family-oriented retreat offering multi-room suites with mini golf, playground, pool, game room and more

Things to do in Waikato and Rotorua

Waitomo Caves : Under the green hills of Waitomo lies a labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers. The area’s name comes from the Maori words wai (water) and tomo (hole). The caves were carved by underground streams pushing through soft limestone over thousands of years. Many have amazing stalactites growing down from the ceiling and stalagmites growing up from the cave floor. The cave walls are also decorated with galaxies of native glow worms. 

The easiest way to see the caves is with a walking or boat tour. If you’re into adventure, try the unique experience of blackwater rafting – you’ll crawl, swim and float through the caves on a rubber tube. You can also abseil or zip-line through the darkness.

Glowing Adventures – Private Glow Worm Eco Tour : An off the beaten track eco tour where guides will escort you through native New Zealand forest and into untouched caves. Small tours of no more than 8 people give groups the ability to move slowly through the caves and really enjoy and explore, including a rather mesmerizing glow worm display. You’ll see the caves just as nature intended. There are no handrails, electric lights, concrete paths, or other modifications, and the tour involves climbing over boulders, up hills and wading through streams. Be aware that a moderate level of fitness is required.

Hobbiton Tours in Matamata -the evening banquet tour : For any Lord of the Ring fans, experience the Hobbiton Movie Set with a guided tour through The Shire at dusk. You’ll be escorted though the 12 acre site, with a guide recounting fascinating stories and anecdotes about the trilogies. The tour concludes at The Green Dragon Inn with a complimentary beverage. You’ll then be moved through into The Green Dragon dining room and treated to a banquet feast fit for a Hobbit.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 3: Rotorua

Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as fascinating Maori culture. From crystal-clear streams and gorgeous forest, to epic biking trails and explosive geysers, Rotorua has something for everyone. 

Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland. After marvelling at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity within you have lots of options to enjoy a simple soak in a natural hot stream or indulge in a wellness getaway at a luxurious spa. 

To experience Maori culture, hospitality and food, try a hangi feast cooked in the steaming ground and take a tour of an authentic pre-European village at Tamaki Maori Village – find out more here . The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, native forests and 18 fresh water lakes, making it the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Things to do in Rotorua

Tamaki Maori Village : Rotorua is, in many ways, the modern capital of Maori culture in New Zealand. In this fun-filled evening you’ll see traditional performances, take part in Maori games and agility training activities and enjoy the traditional hangi feast. It’s one of the best things to do in Rotorua for good reason!

Rotorua Canopy Tours · Ultimate Canopy Tour – Eco Zip Line experience : This tour takes you deep into untouched New Zealand forest. It’s an adrenaline-fueled experience with great kiwi guides who lead small groups on really personal tours.

OGO Rotorua · Zorbing : Try out a slice of Kiwi ingenuity – take a sneak peek at the OGO making factory and try out a dry or wet ride OGO Ride while overlooking the spectacular views of Lake Rotorua & Mokoia Island.

Te Puia Arts and Crafts Centre, Rotorua – Geyser by night : Discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud and beautiful native bush. During this nighttime experience you’ll get to experience the geothermal valley in an inimitable multi-sensory experience. 

Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua – Nightlights Forest Walk : Another nighttime activity, this tour offers the opportunity to explore Rotorua’s majestic Redwood forest under the shroud of darkness. Illuminated by design and sustainability champion David Trubridge’s bespoke creations it’s an immersive and captivating environment which encompasses 30 lanterns, over 40 “infinite colour spots” and feature lights that illuminate the 117-year-old redwood trees, forest ferns and pungas.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 4: Day trip to Lake Taupo

The town of Taupo sits at the edge of Australasia’s largest lake. Local attractions include trout fishing, skiing, and geothermal parks. Lake Taupo is actually a huge volcano with a fiery history whose most recent eruption, in 181 AD, was large enough to change the sky as far away as Europe and China. According to Maori legend, the lake is the pulsating heart of Maui’s fish (New Zealand’s North Island). 

The lakeside town provides a base for visitors who love to fish for trout, ski Mount Ruapehu and explore the local geothermal phenomena. Popular Taupo experiences include Huka Falls, geothermal walks, a prawn farm, and lake cruises. This is also a fantastic region for year-round mountain biking, with the recent completion of the Great Lake Trail. Along with cycling, there’s excellent hiking and golf opportunities. 

Things to do in Lake Taupo

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland : Sculpted by volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is one of New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse sightseeing attractions. You’ll see a uniquely different natural landscape whose formation lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. Just don’t mind the smell!

Huka Falls: The Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river, moves gracefully north from Lake Taupo between banks 100 metres apart. Just before the Huka Falls it enters a shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock. The effect of this rapid change is nature’s large-scale equivalent of a fire hose feeding into a very fine nozzle. The previously placid waters roar and rumble at great speed along the ravine before bursting into space out over Huka Falls to crash into the pool 11 metres below. A foot bridge right at the top of the falls puts you in a prime position to get up close and witness the explosive display of more than 220,000 litres of water blasting by every second.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 5: Fly from Rotorua to Christchurch

Christchurch overview

Christchurch city promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. As the gateway to the South Island, it’s a must on any itinerary. Christchurch has an evident energy which Lonely Planet described as a “vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively.” The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favourites. 

Visit the Re Start container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to the creative vibe. Traditionally known as the Garden City, Christchurch’s award winning Botanic Gardens are over 150 years old and boast an enviable collection of exotic and native plants. The Avon River flows gently through the city centre, making Edwardian punt rides an iconic way to sightsee. Alternatively, catch a ride aboard the Historic Tram or take a bicycle tour to learn about Christchurch’s history.

Where to stay in Christchurch

It’s worth staying in Christchuch Central City for your two nights, as it’s a lovely area full of wonderful sites to explore. The city also boasts numerous charming bed & breakfasts in the heart of the action, even with a variety of room sizes to accommodate all needs.

• Orari Boutique Hotel – lovely historic home that has been converted to a bed & breakfast
• The Grange B&B – modern amenities in a historic mansion
• Sudima Christchurch City – a taste of luxury in a fantastic location

Things to do in Christchurch

Christchurch Bike Tours : Take a leisurely 2.5 hour guided cycle tour along the peaceful cycle paths of Christchurch’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, riverside cycle trails, and through the green expanse of Hagley Park to historic Mona Vale. With flat elevation and purpose-built cycle paths, the route is both accessible and enjoyable, and urban hire bikes are custom-fit to each client.

Riverside Market Christchurch: This is an exciting new development consisting of a 7-day-trading, indoor farmers’ market that links to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars. It provides a reliable source of fresh, organic, locally grown food and supports small local businesses, community, and the environment through an initiative to minimize packaging and waste.

Waka on Avon : Explore Christchurch by Waka on the Avon River. Leaving from Margaret Mahy Playground, this 45 minute waka paddling experience is a unique historical and cultural trip on Ōtākaro Avon River. You’ll paddle a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon while learning about the importance of the waka to Māori culture. 

Early Māori originally came to Aotearoa New Zealand by Waka. Then 180 years ago, waka were an important part of the early building of Christchurch, with Māori and early settlers transporting on, trading by and working along the Avon River together. It’s a memorable experience.

Margaret Mahy Playground: If you’re traveling in New Zealand with kids, you won’t want to miss Margaret Mahy Playground! It’s the best playground in New Zealand and has apparatus for children from toddlers through tweens. You can easily spend several hours here, so bring snacks.

Quake City : This interactive exhibit explains how the Canterbury Earthquake occurred and the far-reaching impacts on Christchurch and its surroundings.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 6: Day trip to Banks Peninsula

An easy drive south-east of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula is the South Island’s most interesting volcanic feature. Originally an island formed by two volcanic cones, the peninsula has two dominant craters which form Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours. The peninsula was named for botanist Joseph Banks, who sailed with Captain James Cook on the Endeavour. 

The Banks Peninsula is likened to the crown of Christchurch with the two magnificent harbours as the main jewels set within it, where the old craters were invaded by the sea in ages past. The crater rims stand majestically in a ring of craggy peaks and the outer flanks boast some of the most spectacular outer coast scenery in New Zealand of towering cliffs punctuated by beautiful sandy beaches.

Things to do in Banks Peninsula

Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa : The ultimate dolphin experience – during this cruise you’ll get the chance to see and swim with these beautiful marine mammals close up in the wild in their natural habitat. You’ll swim with the endangered Hector’s Dolphin, the world’s rarest and smallest oceanic dolphin. Hector’s dolphins are protected in Akaroa Harbour by a marine mammal sanctuary. Please note though that there is no touching of the dolphins as this is a pure natural encounter where participants enter and respect Hector’s dolphin’s environment and behaviour.

Akaroa: Located on the south-east side of the deep, sheltered Akaroa Harbour, the charming township of Akaroa is unique as it was the only French settlement in New Zealand. And the best way to explore Akaroa is on foot. You can visit local restaurants which focus on French cuisine and head along to Barrys Bay Cheese, where they continue making cheese with century-old methods. If you have time after strolling through the town, take a harbour cruise to view dolphins, penguins and fur seals.

Pohatu Penguin Habitat: How about an evening penguin tour? This is a wonderful option for people who wish to view penguins in the wild. You have a few tour options, one of which includes pick-up at Akaroa with a truly spectacular Scenic 4WD van ride to Pohatu. The tour concentrates mostly on the Little penguin but other native and endemic birds may also be seen. 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 7: Christchurch – Canterbury Plains – Mt Cook National Park 

Stay 2 nights in the Park

Driving distance 3.5 hours (without stops)

The Canterbury Plains is an area of braided rivers and pastoral perfection between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. Almost perfectly flat, the plains are a remarkable sight from the air – a patchwork of agricultural activity that ranges from grazing grass and wheat to herbs and sunflowers. The area produces more than 80% of New Zealand’s grains, crops and seeds.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers in the country. It is alpine in the purest sense, with towering peaks, glaciers, and permanent snow fields all set under a star-studded sky.

Where to stay near Mt. Cook

You’ll want to stay right in Mount Cook village for easiest access to some of the best scenery in New Zealand. When you consider where to stay, keep in mind that the area is very remote with just a few restaurants. Many visitors find it easiest to bring provisions with them to prepare at least breakfast and lunch, even if they opt to dine in one of the village’s handful of restaurants for dinner.

• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge – Clean, budget-friendly accommodations with a lovely shared kitchen and lounge that opens to a perfect deck for daytime relaxing or nighttime star gazing Note from Melissa: We stayed here during our own visit to Mount Cook and met many wonderful fellow travelers! We would return in a heartbeat.
• The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook – Full service hotel, including most of the village’s dining options so it’s a great choice if you don’t want to worry about bringing and preparing food
• Aoraki Alpine Chalet – Perfect for a big group (up to 8) or those wanting more space without sacrificing location or amenities

Where to stop between Christchurch and Mt Cook

Lake Tekapo: picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water. On the shores on the lake you’ll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district and is still used as a place of worship. 

Dark Sky Project – The Summit Experience : at Otehiwai, University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. Prepare for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery at the world-renowned research centre, New Zealand’s most popular stargazing & observatory experience. Minimum age 7.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 8: Mt Cook National Park 

The park encompasses 23 peaks over 3000 meters high, but is surprisingly accessible for people wanting all different levels of physical activity.

As mentioned previously, far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent, and the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. 

Mountaineers regard the area to be the best climbing region in Australasia, but less-skilled adventurers can still find plenty of satisfaction with the mountain walks that lead to alpine tarns, herb fields and spectacular glacier views. Encounters with cheeky kea (mountain parrots) are part of the fun.

At 27 kilometers in length, the mighty Tasman Glacier is a powerful piece of landscaping equipment. While it slowly carves the valley sides, it provides a landing place for small ski planes and helicopters.

Things to do in Mt Cook National Park

Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike : You’ll start with a scenic flight into the Tasman Glacier, with views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and the surrounding snow-capped mountains that form the Southern Alps. From there, you’ll continue to explore the incredible Tasman Glacier on this one in a lifetime hiking experience. You can do this with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding which offer an excellent level of safety with guides certified by the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. The guides have years of experience exploring the glacier so you get extensive local knowledge to help you discover hidden gems.

Tekapo Springs · Hot Pools: This complex has three hot pools and an Aqua Play Area with yet another two pools. You get steam and sauna rooms with cold plunge pools adjacent to the hot pools. As you relax, you have stunning views of the lake, mountain, and forest. You also have an excellent onsite café with both indoor and outdoor dining.

Hooker Valley: This is one of the most popular walks in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, seen in the photo above. You’ll pass through Hooker Valley as you walk alongside the Hooker River. Walking one of these tracks is the best way to experience the pristine wilderness here. Walks encompass up close views of icebergs, glaciers and majestic mountains. Good luck ever putting your camera away!

The full Hooker Valley walk takes 4 hours start to finish. It starts at the Visitor Centre or White Horse Hill campground/carpark (at the end of Hooker Valley Rd off State Highway 80) and the track leads up the Hooker Valley, along the Hooker River and ends at the glacier lake, where on a clear day you’ll catch amazing views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. It’s a mostly flat trail but a few sections are rocky or muddy, and there are three swing bridges to cross. As always, be prepared for ever-changing weather conditions.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 9: Mt Cook – Central Otago – Queenstown 

Stay 2 nights in Queenstown (or potentially 3 depending on the timing of your departing flight – see note on Day 13)

Driving distance 3 hours (without stops).

You will cross one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets The “Lindis Pass” as you head into Central Otago. It’s a powerful landscape, sunny, dry and brown with weathered ancient mountains, alpine herb fields and fast lowing rivers.

Central Otago, on New Zealand’s South Island, is know for its wine, cycling and dramatic scenery. Taste your way around the sunny Central Otago’s Pinot Noir vineyards, cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail or explore picturesque heritage towns.

Your destination for today is Queenstown which sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables mountains rising up behind it. This is a sophisticated resort town that’s mindbogglingly scenic. With both lake and mountain activities, its well-suited to almost any kind of adventure. For those looking for some luxury, Queenstown is just as well known as a place for indulgence.

Where to stay in Queenstown

Queenstown can get very busy, especially in summer and winter. You’ll be happy to have centrally located accommodations that offer parking.

• Crowne Plaza Queenstown – Queenstown’s best located luxury hotel. With lake views and all of the amenities you’d expect from a 4-star hotel, the Crowne is a top choice for those who don’t mind a little splurge.
• Holiday homes – Because Queenstown is a year-round adventure destination, there’s an enormous selection of holiday homes for rent! Find one that offers the space you need within your budget and enjoy. If you’ve packed light for New Zealand, this is also a great opportunity to catch up on laundry (especially if you wind up staying for 3 nights). Just double-check that your chosen property includes bed linens, as not all holiday homes in New Zealand do.

Where to stop between Queenstown and Mt Cook

Clyde: in historic Clyde you can wander the town, relax in countless lovely cafes, and just enjoy the atmosphere or hire a mountain bike to explore the surrounding hills. This historic town is located at the foot of a river gorge and is surrounded by rounded hills of schist punctuated with large craggy rocks. Schist is gold bearing rock and pretty substantial finds in the rivers near town sparked a gold rush in the late 1800s. It’s easy to see why some of the first Europeans here chose this site as a place to settle. The micro-climate offers hot, dry summers, with mild springs and autumns that are full of nature’s colours. 

Bike It Now! – Biking the Otago Rail Trail : Hope on a bike and explore the Otago Central Rail Trail as it cuts through the Raggedy Range that separates the Manukerikia and Ida Valleys. Highlights of this section of the trail include the 37m high Poolburn Viaduct, two tunnels, the trails longest bridge, and of course Central Otago’s stunning landscapes. You should allow 5- 6 hours for the whole experience including some time to stop for a bite to eat.

Queenstown: Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations. It sits on the shore of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu amidst dramatic mountain ranges. Queenstown is suited to all kinds of adventures – especially throughout summer. Activities like hiking (like Queenstown Hill pictured above), paragliding, zip lining, 4WD driving, and kayaking are a great way to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful outdoors.

Other activities like skydiving , jet boating, river rafting and bungie jumping offer a fun and exhilarating day out. If adventure isn’t your thing and you just need time to kick back and relax, there are plenty of experiences on offer. Treat yourself to some boutique shopping and be sure to experience the excellent local food and wine. 

A popular holiday spot at any time of the year, Queenstown is renowned for its four distinctive seasons. Winter brings crisp, blue-sky days, spring retains the snow but blooms into longer, warmer days, summer offers sunshine and long twilights, and autumn a burst of brilliant red and gold. Over the years, the town has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping. 

Read more : A local’s guide to 2 days in Queenstown

New Zealand Itinerary Day 10: Lake Wanaka Adventures

45 kilometres long and covering 193 square kilometres, the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are perfect for jetboaters, sailors and kayakers. Nestled below towering mountains, Wanaka is the most tranquilly set of the South Island lakes and is much more than a winter destination. Year round activities include fishing, hiking, canyoning, climbing and skydiving. 

Excavated by massive glaciers more than 10,000 years ago, Lakes Wanaka and Hawea lie side by side. Lake Wanaka is the source of New Zealand’s largest river, the Clutha. Lake Hawea feeds into the Hawea River, which joins the Clutha at Albert Town. Ringed by pebbly beaches and with magnificent views to the surrounding peaks, both lakes offer a variety of adventures, especially during the long, hot months of summer.

Things to do in Wanaka (and nearby)

Wanaka River Journeys – Jet boat and wilderness walk : Enjoy an exciting half day Jet Boating adventure beneath the spectacular scenery of Glaciers & lots of Lord of the Rings film locations. You’ll head into into Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. You’ll shoot down shallow braids, drift into turns and experience some thrilling spins as local guides tell you about this history and nature here. After the ride, you have a 50-minute walk through remote moss covered forest, waterfalls and glacier fed streams. 

Wild Wire: For anyone not interested in the jet boat and walk, consider joining in on the highest waterfall via ferrata in the world.

Choose from 1 of 3 climbs: The easiest climb “Go Wild” is one of those great Wanaka activities that’s fun and easy to do with the family, the Intermediate climb “Wild Thing” is perfect for those looking for a bit more adventure and the advanced climb “Lord of the Rungs” is the highest waterfall via ferrata in the world and includes a return via helicopter and is definitely one of the most spectacular things to do in New Zealand.

Mt. Aspiring National Park: Stretch your legs in this beautiful wilderness of native forests, towering mountains and river valleys. Named for Mt Aspiring, one of New Zealand’s highest peaks, the park is a veritable dreamland and hiker’s paradise. You have a host of short walks concentrated at the end of the park’s access roads. Shorter walks include the Routeburn Nature Walk, Haast Pass Summit, Lake Sylvan near the lower dart River and the Blue Pools Walk. You also have longer hikes with options to traverse mountain saddles; the Dart/Rees River circuit, Greenstone/Caples and the Wilkin Valley tracks are a few options. In summer, it’s possible to walk from one valley to another over spectacular mountain passes. 

Hook Restaurant – Lake to plate fishing/dining experience: For a dinner experience a bit different from the norm; catch a Chinook salmon from their spring-fed fishing lakes then relax or explore while the team prepares it for you! This is the Hook experience – “from lake to plate”.

Puzzling World : If you’re visiting New Zealand with children or teens, be sure to plan a few hours at Puzzling World. It has an indoor museum full of engaging optical illusions and puzzles along with an enormous outdoor maze.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 11: Wanaka – Central Otago – Te Anau

Stay 2 nights in Te Anau

Driving distance 3hrs (without stops)

Central Otago is the home of New Zealand Pinot noir and you have countless options for wine tasting and touring. The town of Cromwell was established by gold miners, but now its treasure is stone fruit.

Today, by late afternoon you’ll reach Te Anau. Lake Te Anau is the largest of the southern glacial lakes, covering an area of 344 square kilometres. The main body of the lake runs north-south and three large fjords reach out from its western side – these arms are called North Fjord, Middle Fjord and South Fjord.

Where to stay in Te Anau

Te Anau is a compact town with many walkable restaurants and a lovely waterfront. It’s nice to stay in town if possible to walk, but even if not it’s easy to navigate by car as well.

• Edgewater Model – great lakeside location and plenty of options to suit all needs
• ASURE Explorer Motel & Apartments – walking distance to most of Te Anau, while also providing spacious accommodations and pretty grounds
• Holiday home for active groups – sleeps up to 11 people in a cluster of cottages, also includes 6 bikes (with helmets) and 2 kayaks (with life jackets)

Things to do in Central Otago and Te Anau

Oxbow Adventure Co – Ultimate Off Road Ride and Jet Sprint Boat Ride : Enjoy a ride on totally custom-built 4WD, 4-wheel-steer off-roaders. The off-roader ride is one of Queenstown’s most unique adventure experiences, though definitely not for the fainthearted. 

Arrowtown : Arrowtown is a living historic settlement. Wander the tree-lined streets of restored cottages and explore gold mining sites. This is one of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, and sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush. The settlement grew quickly as pioneers constructed cottages, shops, hotels and churches, more than 60 of which can still be seen today.

A special highlight is the Chinese settlement at the edge of the river. Built by Chinese miners from 1868, this area of restored shelters and buildings paints a picture of earlier times. In April and May Arrowtown ignites with colour as deciduous trees prepare for winter. A festival is held in the last week of April to celebrate the gorgeous seasonal colours. 

Te Anau: This is the perfect town to base yourself in to visit Milford Sound. Nestled on the edge of a lake, you have lots of accommodation options. Te Anau is the main visitor base for the glacier-carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park. Do be aware that it’s best to book accommodation ahead in the busy months of January, February and March. In town, you have loads of restaurant options dishing up local fare like venison, lobster and all manner of seafood. 

At the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre you can make plans to walk the Milford, Routeburn, or Kepler Tracks. Apart from hiking, popular local activities include scenic flights, lake cruising, fishing, kayaking and exploring the Te Anau Glowworm caves – this tour is a great choice if you didn’t get to visit the Waitomo cave and it includes a lovely boat ride across Lake Te Anau. There’s also a bird sanctuary that specializes in native birds.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 12: Fiordland National Park

One of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand; the power of Fiordland’s scenery is seriously impressive. Ancient rainforest clings impossibly to the mountains; waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters into massive fiords; and shimmering lakes and granite peaks look the same today as they did a thousand years ago. The fourteen fiords that ringe this south-west corner of the South Island were 100,000 years in the making, with the final details added during the most recent ice age just 10,000 years ago. On all sides of the fiords, spectacular waterfalls tumble incessantly as the region’s plentiful rainfall finds its way to the sea.

Things to do in Fiordland Park

Day trip to Milford Sound: Situated on the west coast of the South Island, Milford Sound is a fusion of spectacular natural features. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 1000 feet. If you’re lucky to arrive after heavy rainfall (a common occurrence here!), the waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect. Boat cruises during the day are an excellent way to experience the Sound. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you might also like to head out sea kayaking, diving or flightseeing. If you’re interested in learning more about local marine life, you can visit the underwater observatory at Harrison Cove.

Mirror Lakes: One of the Milford Road highlights, the Mirror Lakes, are world-famous for their beauty and the way they reflect their surrounding scenery. Stunningly scenic, they provide breathtaking reflections of the Earl mountain ranges on a calm day. While thousands of tourists visit the Mirror Lakes every year searching for the perfect photo op, they’re also habitats for many animals, including some of New Zealand’s rarest birds. Our smallest duck, the scaup or pāpango, lives in the Mirror Lakes and other Eglinton Valley waterways, as do the grey duck or pārera. Under the water, you’ll find long-finned native eels and brown and rainbow trout.

Southern Discoveries – Nature Cruise of Milford Sound : Pack your camera and join expert nature guides on a special cruise that takes you closer to the natural beauty of Milford Sound. These are smaller boats which let you get close enough to see basking seals, dolphins, or, if you’re lucky, a rare Fiordland crested penguin. If Southern Discoveries is booked or doesn’t match your schedule, the RealNZ Milford Sound cruise is excellent and covers much the same route.

Roscos Milford Sound Kayaks : If you feel like a more active day, consider an organized kayaking trip! This trip takes you on a big loop of Milford Sound, meaning you get to take in all the highlights. 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 13: Glenorchy to Queenstown

Stay 1 night in Queenstown, or if your return flight is late on day 14 you can instead bump Glenorchy to day 11 as a day trip from Queenstown and extend your stay there by one night. You’d then stay the last two nights of your trip in Te Anau and drive directly to the Queenstown airport (2 hours). That may be an easier option for those who don’t want to unpack and repack an extra time.

Enjoy your last full day in New Zealand exploring the area of Glenorchy before you head back for another night in Queenstown. 

Things to do in Glenorchy

Glenorchy: Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu & is the gateway to hiking trails and “Middleearth” magic. Set against a background of native beech forest and towering mountain ranges, it is rather awe-inspiring, even for those of us who have seen it countless times. Glenorchy’s spectacular landscapes have become a prime location for film scouts, and many scenes from The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Narnia movies were filmed here.

Queenstown: We’ve already been over many of the options for things to do in Queenstown on Day 9. Today’s your chance to do anything you didn’t have time for then! 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 14: Depart New Zealand

After 13 busy days it’s time to head home or on to your next destination. You’ll have seen and experienced some of the best that New Zealand has to offer, but there’s still plenty left to discover on your next trip!

Want more help planning your New Zealand travel itinerary? Be sure to reach out to Veronika for her expertise.

PS – Be sure to grab one last Fergburger on your way to the airport!

About Veronika

Veronika has done a little bit of everything in New Zealand tourism over the past 20 years. For a decade she worked as a driver-guide, exploring every corner of the country. Since then, she’s settled down a bit and has spent the last 10 years running her own boutique tour agency which specializes in fully custom trips, including many like this New Zealand 14 day itinerary. 

With more than twenty years of travel experience and an understanding of the subtle nuances of traveling in this diverse country, she hopes to give travelers the gift of truly exploring and immersing themselves in New Zealand. She’s looking forward to helping you plan an unforgettable visit to her little corner of the world!

Planning your New Zealand 2 week itinerary

Are you getting ready for an epic New Zealand itinerary of 2 weeks? Don’t miss these articles to help you plan:

• 10 things to know before you visit New Zealand
• A Local’s Guide to 2 Days in Queenstown
• Bike the Otago Central Rail Trail
• The best things to do in Tasman, New Zealand for outdoor lovers
• Beautiful pictures of New Zealand’s North Island beaches
• Up close with Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village
• Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga: Exploring the beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

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South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip

Home » Blog » New Zealand » South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip

We’ve done all the trip planning for you and put together the best 2-week itinerary for South Island New Zealand you’ll find! It’s packed full of incredible sights and heart-thumping adventures, plus insider tips and advice. 

With picturesque fjords, snow-capped mountains, temperate rainforests and black sand beaches, South Island New Zealand is a nature-lover’s paradise. 

Add to that a seemingly endless amount of activities —like bungy jumping, whale watching and some of the world’s best hiking—and you’ve got yourself one hell of an adventure! 

Planning a trip to New Zealand can be overwhelming because there is just SO. MUCH. TO. DO. But if you plan it right, it will surely end up being one of the most memorable vacations of your life .

While two weeks isn’t nearly enough to “do it all,” we think it’s a good amount of time to hit the highlights. We created this itinerary that packs in the major highlights, gets off the beaten path, and allows some time to just soak it all in.

This 2-week itinerary for South Island New Zealand is perfect for any traveler with a sense of adventure and appreciation for nature . And we have even included tips for altering it to fit a shorter trip, or what to see if you have more than two weeks to explore!

Article contents

• About this itinerary
• Best time to visit
• How many days – what to add or cut

Choosing your campervan or car rental

• Itinerary map
• Itinerary overview
• What to pack

About this South Island itinerary 

Countless hours were spent researching our route for New Zealand. We pored over article after article. We talked to Kiwis and asked for their local advice. And we finally came up with a plan.

All our research paid off: We had an incredible road trip! So, we’ve taken our road trip route and made it even better for you.  

We added some things we wish we would have made it to and we altered a couple things here and there that we wish we would’ve done differently.

This itinerary for South Island New Zealand is set up for a campervan trip. However, you can follow much of this route if you’re traveling with a rental car and staying at hotels along the way. 

We’re beginning this route in Christchurch, as this is where many people enter the country.

However, if you’re doing a tour of both the South and North Island (we would absolutely recommend this if you have the time!), we’d suggest following this two-week South Island itinerary and then head over to our two-week North Island itinerary for more details.

Important Note: One thing to know about traveling in New Zealand is you’ll need to be flexible. The weather in this country (especially in the South Island) is highly unpredictable, and a day of heavy rain or a surprise snowfall might derail your plans of hiking or bungy jumping.

We would highly recommend having some “flex days” so you can alter your plans if you encounter weather that is not ideal. Trust us on this one.

If you’re looking for an alternative…

We traveled in NZ for about 5 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including both the North and South islands.

We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days because so many people wanted a 1-month route. We’ll send you our complete 1-month itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary today!

Best time to visit South Island New Zealand

This is sort of a loaded question as the answer will depend entirely on your personal travel style and reasons for visiting New Zealand. 

If hiking, warmer temperatures, and beach time are on your to-do list, you’ll want to visit the South Island during the summer months. Spring and fall are the best months to visit to avoid major crowds and still have decent weather for hiking. 

If you are looking to save some money, experience skiing, or just want to avoid the crowds completely, you’ll want to visit during the winter months. 

Keep in mind: New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere and the seasons are mirror opposite to those experienced in the north!

We put together an entire article that goes over what to expect in each season and how to decide which is best for you. Find out the best time to visit New Zealand for your personal travel needs. 

How many days do you need in South Island New Zealand?

We had the exact same question when we first started researching New Zealand. 

This South Island New Zealand itinerary is for 15 days exactly. Although it will be a bit fast, we feel like it is probably the best introduction to New Zealand you can get .

If you have a different timeline in New Zealand, here are our recommendations for your custom itinerary:

1 week on the South Island

Try to fly in and out of Queenstown if you can. Travel around Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Haast Pass and Franz Josef, then fly back out of Queenstown.

10 days on the South Island

Follow this itinerary, but cut out the section in the north (Abel Tasman & Nelson). To save time, you could skip a few activities in the West Coast (but we really recommend not to) and cut across the island via Arthur’s Pass or Hwy 7 back to Christchurch.

2 weeks on the South Island

Perfect! Follow this itinerary and you’ll be fine. If you want to stay overnight at a mountain hut, you might want to plan that into your trip.

3 weeks on the South Island

Follow this itinerary, but add on extra adventures like overnights at Mueller Hut and Brewster Hut. You could spend an extra day in Queenstown or Wanaka, a couple days in the Catlins, or tack on another day trip in Abel Tasman National Park. Arthur’s Pass is another great spot to explore (especially if you plan to return to Christchurch).

One of the best ways to travel around New Zealand is in a campervan. That’s how we traveled for 5 weeks, and how we set up this itinerary to be followed. 

If you’re wanting to do a campervan trip, we have a guide to the best campervan rentals in New Zealand . This walks you through your rental options, what to look out for, and we’ve even included an exclusive discount for our readers! 

We also put together a HUGE guide to planning your New Zealand campervan trip with tons of insider tips and advice. Make sure to give it a read before booking your trip!

Alternatively, you can still follow this itinerary using a car rental and staying in hotels and Airbnbs along the way. 

Renting a car in New Zealand is different from many other countries. Even if you’re a pro at car rentals you might be surprised by a few things. We put together a huge guide to New Zealand car rentals to share all of our insider information with you. 

Be sure to book your rental car and any rental gear before your trip begins . And don’t forget travel insurance ! Picking a policy that covers your rental car is often cheaper than buying a separate policy through the rental company.

South Island New Zealand itinerary overview

Day 1: fly into christchurch, day 2: lake tekapo & lake pukaki, day 3: hiking around mount cook, then drive to queenstown, day 4-5: queenstown, glenorchy, & adventure activities, day 6: te anau and milford road highway, day 7: milford sound and key summit hike, day 8: wanaka, day 9: hiking around wanaka – roys peak vs. isthmus peak, day 10: drive haast pass to franz josef.

• Day 11: Helicopter ride and drive to Hokitika

Day 12: Pancake Rocks, glow worm cave rafting and seals

Day 13: abel tasman, day 14: nelson, vineyards in marlborough, and drive to kaikoura, day 15: dolphin encounter and whale watching tours, south island itinerary map.

• At a glance: Welcome to New Zealand! Get your wheels, get connected, get stocked up, and get on the road!
• Distance: 7.6 km (4.3 miles)
• Driving time: 15 minutes

Unless you’ve got unlimited time in New Zealand, we’d recommend getting out of Christchurch as quickly as possible. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with this city, but it’s just that — another city. There are so many more epic places to explore in this country.

Get a SIM card

As soon as you land, get a SIM card at one of the booths at the airport. (We got Spark and had good service.) If you land at night and the booths are closed, don’t worry — we’ll share another place you can get a SIM card.

We purchased a month-long Spark plan with 4GB of data and some calls and texts for $54 NZD ($36 USD). (We did have to top off a few more GB’s after our two weeks in the South Island, but that’s only because we use our phones for work.)

Another alternative is using an eSIM. We like using Airalo to get eSIMs on our travels because it’s convenient and easy. And it’s actually quite affordable as well!

You can download an eSIM with 5GB, valid for 30 days in New Zealand, for just $16 USD! 

Pick up your campervan (or rental car)

From the airport, take the free shuttle to the rental lot where you will be given the keys to your home on wheels.

Good to know: Most reputable campervan companies will give you a little “orientation” where they explain how everything works and how to set up your bed (because it’s not always as simple as it sounds!). Our orientation took 30 minutes, and by the time we filled out paperwork and actually got on the road, an hour had passed. So budget your time accordingly.

If you land late at night and can’t pick up your campervan until the next morning, Commodore Airport Hotel is a good place to stay, as it’s close to the airport and the rental lots.

Run some essential errands

Now that you’re on the road, it’s time to stock up on a few essentials. 

We found Hornby to be a good place to stop, as it’s on the way out of town. It’s a pretty drab suburb, but it’s got a mall and just about every store you’ll need.

• Pak’nSave : Discount supermarket (if you want the lowest prices on groceries, this is where you’ll find them)
• Countdown : A nicer grocery store
• The Warehouse : Cheap “big box” store with toiletries and clothes (like Walmart). – $10 NZD for hoodie and flannel
• If you didn’t get a SIM card at the airport and don’t want to use an eSIM, all 3 of the major network providers (Spark, Vodafone & 2degrees) have branches in the Hornby mall. Here is a quick guide to the cell service options in New Zealand .

Want advice on things to stock up on? We wrote about our favorite campervan meals including ingredient lists to help you come up with a grocery list, and go over our campervan packing list to see if there are any essential items (like baby wipes!) you need to pick up.

Now that you’re stocked up on essentials and have your wheels, it’s time to find a place to camp. Depending on what time your flight arrived, you might be able to make it quite far — make it to Lake Tekapo if you can!

But if you’re like us and landed in the afternoon, the daylight will be fading and your stomach grumbling.

Camping options near Christchurch

Chamberlains Ford Recreation Reserve :

FREE, find it on the Rankers App. ( Don’t know about the Rankers App? Read about it in our guide to campervaning in New Zealand .)

This camp area is 15 minutes from Hornby. There is a clean toilet and not much else, but it’s free.

Recommended? Sure. It’s literally just an open area with a toilet, but is convenient if you want to get out of Christchurch but don’t have time to drive far.

• At a glance: Long day of driving, but totally worth it. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, drive by Lake Pukaki, and make it to Mount Cook village so you can do the Hooker Valley Track before sunset.
• Distance: 358 km (222 miles)
• Total driving time: 4 – 5 hours

Lake Tekapo

This postcard-perfect lake will be a sight for jetlagged eyes. 

After making the flat (and honestly quite boring) journey from Christchurch, the piercing aqua waters of Lake Tekapo basically say, “Welcome to New Zealand, mate!” And you’ll finally feel like you’ve arrived.

Things to do around Lake Tekapo

Have a picnic lunch: Park your car, grab a blanket and sit amongst the colorful lupines. You’ll want something to eat after the drive from Christchurch.

Church of the Good Shepherd: This tiny stone church is the main attraction of the area. Try your best to avoid people getting in your photos. The inside of the church is small and quiet with an epic view through the back window. A service is held there every Sunday at 4 p.m.

Photograph lupines: If you’re lucky and are visiting New Zealand during lupin season, Lake Tekapo is an excellent place to view these pretty purple and pink flowers.

They are only in bloom for a short 6 weeks, from mid-November through early January, and during this time you’ll find these beauties all over the South Island – near the lakes, in towns, and even on the side of the road. So get ready to snap away!

Interesting fact: Lupines are actually weeds that are not native to New Zealand. We learned from one Kiwi that any colored plant or flower is non-native. Almost all native plants native to New Zealand are green, so settlers began bringing in flowers of all colors to brighten up the landscape without understanding the toll non-native species can take on the environment. But there’s no harm in enjoying the beautiful pop of color lupines bring for a short time each year.

Stargaze: Due to the lack of light pollution in the surrounding areas, Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. 

Enjoy the stars for free on any clear night, or take a stargazing tour to learn more about the constellations. There are even nighttime hot pools where you can look at the sky while soaking a picturesque hot tub.

Good to know: Being that Lake Tekapo is quite close to Christchurch, it is a popular stop for bus tours and pretty much every tourist coming through the country. Even though every picture you’ve seen of Church of the Good Shepherd looks peaceful and abandoned, expect a small crowd (unless you arrive at sunrise or stay past dusk).

Lake Pukaki

Just 30 minutes further is Lake Pukaki, another body of aqua water that, in our opinion, topped Lake Tekapo.

For one, it was less crowded than Tekapo. Plus, this narrow lake is flanked by Aoraki/Mount Cook, which you can see looming majestically at the far end. *cue jaw drop* 

Lastly, the water was a significantly brighter shade of blue than Tekapo (at least on the day we visited).

Why are some of the lakes (and rivers) in New Zealand so blue? *enter Ben’s nerd voice*

Because these lakes and rivers are fed from glacier ice melt, there are small particles of earth in the water called rock flour (or glacier flour). This rock flour gets suspended in the water, which scatters and absorbs the colors of sunlight, giving it a cloudy blue color.

Things to do around Lake Pukaki

When you first reach the lake, you’ll find a parking lot, but don’t stop there. Instead, continue to the right on a small road (Hayman Road) for a few hundred meters. You’ll find a hidden little picnic spot that’s stunning. 

Tip: We parked on the side of the road instead of turning in because the gravel road looked a bit rough.

Campground Recommendation: The Pines Freedom Camping (need to be self-contained)

Be prepared, because you are about to embark on a super epic drive. The 45 minutes it takes to go from the south end of Lake Pukaki to Mount Cook Village is dangerously beautiful. 

I say dangerous because you’ll no doubt want to stop your vehicle every couple hundred meters to take a photo! But be careful on this 2-lane road and only stop at the designated pullouts.

Insider tip: You’ll definitely want to stop at Peter’s Viewpoint , which is about ⅓ of the way up as you’re driving north along the lake.

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

This National Park is home to the tallest mountain in New Zealand: Mount Cook. It also offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.

With glaciers, rocky rivers, unparalleled mountain views, and a series of hikes suitable for all levels, Mount Cook National Park was easily one of our favorite places on the South Island. So it comes as no surprise that it is listed as a World Heritage area.

Why are there two names? Aoraki is the Maori name, and Mount Cook is what the settlers called this peak.

Mount Cook Village

This tiny village consists of a few accommodation options, mountaineering tour offices, a couple cafes and the DOC Visitors Centre (which you should absolutely check out!).

Campgrounds in Mount Cook National Park: White Horse Hill Campground

• Cost: $13 per person ($6.50 for children)
• Type of campground: DOC (Department of Conservation)
• Would we recommend it? Yes, it’s definitely your best option in the area!

White Horse Hill is a DOC campsite and costs $13 per person per night ($6.50 for children). This campground is free if you have the DOC pass . You will need to self-register by filling out your information on an envelope and enclosing cash (exact change is needed).

This popular campground can get quite crowded as it is one of the only options in the area. The facilities are basic (drop toilets and a sheltered area). But the views are some of the best you’ll find at any campground in the country.

This campground is the starting point for Hooker Valley Track.

Hooker Valley Track

• Distance: 6.7 miles (10.7 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 666 ft (203 m)
• Difficulty rating: Moderate
• View the trail notes

The Hooker Valley Track is a very easy 3-hour return walk on a well maintained trail. It’s suitable for people of all abilities—we saw small children as well as elderly.

This incredible walk had changing landscapes, boardwalks, jaw dropping views of Mount Cook, and 3 suspension bridges. Be cautious if it’s windy!

Keep your eyes peeled for Mount Cook Lilies—the largest buttercup flowers in the world. There are small signs along the path that point them out along the way. Just be sure you don’t touch them, as it is harmful to these fragile (and rare!) flowers.

Looking for more hikes? With the help of our local friend, we rounded up the most epic New Zealand hikes into one detail-packed article to help you plan your hiking adventures.

• At a glance: Hike up to Sealy Tarns and/or to Tasman Glacier viewpoint, then drive to Queenstown .
• Distance: 264 km (164 miles)
• Total driving time: 3.5 to 4 hours

Aoraki Mount Cook Visitors Centre

This DOC visitor center is beautifully designed and has information on the local flora and fauna as well as some of the history of this region.

You can learn about Freda Du Faur, a badass Australian mountaineer who was the first woman to climb New Zealand’s highest peak (Mount Cook). The rangers also have up-to-date information on the condition of the nearby hiking trails.

There is a nice cafe across from the visitor center. It’s a bit pricey, but there is not much else around.

Mueller Hut

• Distance: 6 miles (10 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 3,454 ft (1,053m)
• Difficulty rating: Challenging

Overnighting at the Mueller Hut is one of the most popular things to do in Mount Cook Village. 

It’s a 4-hour hike one-way, requiring advanced hiking and climbing ability. At the top you’ll be rewarded with a 360 degree view of some of the tallest peaks in NZ, including Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Attempting this hike depends on your interest, experience level and the weather. 

There are 28 bunks in the hut. Booking ahead is required from mid-November to the end of April and costs $45 NZD per person per night.

Our Experience: We had 2 beds reserved and paid for, but when we went to the visitor center in the morning they strongly cautioned us against it. High winds, rain and icy conditions; and our experience with ice axes is minimal. 

Sealy Tarns 

• Distance: 3.2 miles (5.15 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 1,778 ft (542m)

The rangers told us we could do the 4-hour return trip up to the freshwater lakes of Sealy Tarns instead. It’s 2,200 steps on a walkway up and will get you about halfway to Mueller Hut, but it still offers great views of Hooker Valley.

You can rent crampons, ice axes and sleeping bags (and other gear) from Alpine Guides , located in Mount Cook Village. (Though they aren’t guaranteed to have everything you need in stock.) 

• Crampons = $15 per day
• Ice ax = $15 per day
• Sleeping bag and liner = $25 per day 

Note: If you plan to stay overnight at the Mueller Hut, you will add an extra day to this itinerary.

Tasman glacier walk

• Distance: 0.8 miles (1.3 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 269 ft (82m)
• Difficulty rating: Easy

If you’re looking for something much easier than hiking up to a mountain hut, the Tasman Glacier walk is a nice viewpoint that only takes about 15 minutes to reach. 

The path is mostly stairs, but it’s not difficult — all abilities are able to make it to this viewpoint.

Midway through there is a platform and you can see the “blue lakes” that used to be bright blue from the glacial water that fed them. The glacier has receded and no longer feeds them, so they are fed with rainwater, making them a blue-green color.

Near the beginning of the trail you’ll see a path to the right to Tasman Lake. This is where you can get right up to the water and see icebergs up close.

Once you’re done exploring around Mount Cook, it’s time to head further south to Queenstown. It’s a 3-hour drive on Google Maps but it might take 4 hours. That’s just the way New Zealand’s roads work.

Along the drive you can take a rest at Lindis Pass Viewpoint and take in the view from two massive valleys. Continue on Hwy 6 south until you make your way into Queenstown.

You might be pretty exhausted after your drive in, so tonight you might just want to take it easy. Check into your holiday park (we liked Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde ), then maybe head down to the harbor to watch the sunset. 

If you’re feeling up for it, you could grab a Fergburger (more info below) or check out our list of nightlife in Queenstown.

This town of just over 15,000 residents is touristy, yes, but for good reason. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and flanked by snowy peaks, there’s no denying the beauty that surrounds Queenstown.

It makes for the perfect hub for all types of adventure activities and day trips. Queenstown also has a pretty decent nightlife scene if that’s your thing (probably the best you’ll find on the South Island).

With all the things to do in Queenstown , we’d recommend staying at least 2 days. And if you have time to spare, you could add an extra day here.

Our advice: Come to Queenstown with a game plan. There are so many adventure activities in this area that it can be overwhelming if you don’t know what you want to do. Also, being that it is a popular tourist hub, activities book out quite quickly, so it helps to plan a bit in advance.

For this South Island Itinerary, we’ve separated your time in Queenstown in two days laid out below:

Day 4 at a glance:

Drive to Glenorchy

• Stop at Bennett’s Bluff Viewpoint
• Visit the General Store and Wharf
• Lunch in Glenorchy
• Lakefront and Queenstown Garden

Total drive time: 2.5 hours | Distance: 106 km (66 miles)

Day 5 at a glance:

• Adrenaline activities: bungy jump/skydive/shotover boat ride
• Visit Arrowtown for ice cream or dinner
• Drinks at night in Queenstown

Total drive time: 40 minutes | Distance: 40 km (24 miles)

You can mix and match your days in Queenstown whichever way you like. 

Also, it’s a good idea to look at the weather forecast for Queenstown and Milford Sound and plan out which days are best spent outside. If you want to do more adventure activities, you can add a few extra days here as well.

Psst! Don’t miss our complete guide to Queenstown with plenty of things to do and see to fill your days.

About 45-minute drive from Queenstown along the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu with views of the Tooth Peak mountains.

Bob’s Cove : About 14 km out from Queenstown, pull off to hike the 20-minute one-way track to get a great view of the cove and Lake Wakatipu.

Bennett’s Bluff Viewpoint: Along the road 30 minutes (24 km) from Queenstown. It’s not a big pull out area so be careful. 

Glenorchy General Store: Sells everything you can think of from milk to fruit to sweaters to books on Lord of the Rings filming locations. It is a cafe and bakery too, so grab a pastry and sit on the picnic tables outside.

Glenorchy Wharf: Walk inside the historic red barn and read about the history of the area. Walk out on the dock to get amazing views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Once you’ve had enough of Glenorchy, head back to Queenstown. When you get about 7 km away from town, turn uphill to the left. Follow the directions for about 20 minutes to through sheep-filled fields to the hidden Moke Lake and campground . Hike around for a bit, or if you want to camp there, we have instructions below.

Queenstown waterfront and garden

Take your burger down to the lakefront and devour it there. After you conquer your beast burger, walk it off in the Queenstown Garden. It’s a beautiful loop through the botanical garden and shoreline. Check out the lawn bowling in the center of the park.

Visit Arrowtown

Take a 20-minute drive to historic Arrowtown. Once a thriving mining town, today it is filled with fancy restaurants, wine bars and ice cream shops. Window shop while taking in the old time feel of the city, and treat yourself to an IPA or red wine at the charming The Fork and Tap .

Rainy day activities in Queenstown

Reading Cinema Theater:  Catch the newest movie at the local movie theater. It was a little rainy (and snowy!) when we first arrived to Queenstown and this was a nice way to spend the day.

Tim Wilson Gallery:  View beautiful works of art that we will never afford to own. Tim Wilson, a Kiwi himself, is extremely talented and has an amazing way of painting landscapes around New Zealand.

Adrenaline activities near Queenstown

Bungy Jumping: Jump off a bridge where bungy was invented or launch yourself out of a catapult. Either way, there are plenty of companies to go with. 

It’s one of our top things to do in New Zealand and we’ll tell you which company we chose and why in that article.

Skydiving: Have you ever wanted to jump out of a plane? New Zealand is one of the best places to do it in the world. 

Imagine free falling with views of the Southern Alps and being able to see both coasts of the South Island. Pretty incredible! 

There are a few different sky diving companies to choose from so be sure to pick the best one for you.

Shotover Jet Boat Ride: Strap in for a wet and wild ride up and down the Shotover River. The jet boat driver will whip past rock walls and 360 degree spins in the river gorge. It will get your heart pumping for the entire 90-minute experience. Book your tour here .

Where to eat and drink in Queenstown

• We recommend getting the Sweet Bambi or Mr. Big Stuff. Take a look at the menu and try not to drool. Burgers average around $15 NZD, but they are the size of your face. 
• Local tip: Call in your order so you don’t have to wait in line.
• Alternative to Fergburger: We didn’t get to try it, but our friend says Devil Burger is pretty comparable to the Ferg. Do a little taste test for us and report back.
• Erik’s Fish and Chips : A Kiwi staple, order your fish and chips and head down to the lakefront.
• Atlas Beer Cafe : Located down by the wharf, this tiny bar and restaurant has amazing beers on tap and their famous steaks are no joke! Cheapest and best steak you’ll get in Queenstown.
• The Cow Restaurant : Chow down on delicious artisan pizza or garlic bread paired with a local wine or brew.
• Nightlife: If you’re looking for a wild night, head to Cowboy’s bar. Here you can play shuffleboard or ride the mechanical bull.

Camping near Queenstown

There are no freedom camping areas close to town, and if you are just driving in for the day there are only a few spots you can park for free. 

There is free street parking during the day on Man Street or Hallenstein Street. From there you can walk to town, but try to get there before 9 or 10 a.m.

There are only 3 campgrounds within the city and they often book up ahead of time. Make reservations if you’re traveling in peak season.

Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde : This quirky holiday park was our choice for our time in Queenstown because it is eco-certified, has nice and warm common spaces with kitchens, hot water showers, and clean bathrooms.

Moke Lake Campground : About a 30 minute drive from Queenstown, this was perhaps our favorite campground in all of New Zealand. The facilities are basic (as it’s a DOC site). But the location is like something out of a fairytale. Beautiful views of a lake valley surrounded by sheep. You have to drive on gravel roads in the middle of nowhere to get there. 4-wheel drive is recommended and there is no cell service.

• Cost: Moke Lake Campground is not included in the DOC pass. $13 per person (self register, need exact cash). 

Psst! Both the Queenstown Holiday Park and Moke Lake made our list of best campsites in New Zealand . Be sure to check out the full list for other epic places to camp and plan your route around your favorites.

Alternative: 12-Mile Delta Campground : It has plenty of room, also $13 per person, and is about 15 minutes from town (or 12 miles “Oh I get it now…”).

• At a glance: Spectacular views as you drive along the highway, stopping for short walks to viewpoints of lakes and mountains.
• Distance: 289 km (179 miles)
• Total driving time: 4.5 hours, but depends on number of stops

The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau and onto the Milford Sound Highway is stunning. There are tours to Milford that leave from Queenstown (there are a few good tours here ), but we highly recommend you drive on your own because there are so many places to stop.

Lucky for you, it just so happens that we have a guide with everything you need to know to plan the perfect Queenstown to Milford Sound road trip , including can’t-miss stops, essential tips, and how much time you *actually* need (spoiler alert: it’s NOT what Google Maps says).

Tip: Before you leave the Queenstown area, make sure to stock up on food at the Frankton Countdown grocery store because there aren’t very good options for food in Te Anau and there are no services on the Milford Road Highway.

Remarkables Lookout Point

About halfway up the road to the Remarkables, Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu Lookout is a beautiful view over Queenstown. 

The Remarkables resort is supposed to have a nice view as well. However, when we drove up it was shrouded in clouds unfortunately.

Tip: Use 2nd gear if you have it going up, but be sure to switch when you’re parked, and low gear going down.

The drive along Hwy 6 on the shore of Lake Wakatipu is called the Devil’s Staircase and it is stunning. Be careful driving because many people will pull over on the side of the road for a picture, and so should you but make sure it is safe.

Stopping in the Te Anau Visitors Center is worthwhile because they are very informative of things to do around Te Anau and on the Milford Road Highway. 

This will be your last stop for groceries, petrol and cell service before you head onto the highway. You should plan on at least 2.5 hours from Te Anau to Milford Sound (forget what Google maps says) because of all the stops, time waiting at Homer tunnel, and other travelers.

While in Te Anau, one of the attractions we found fascinating was the Ata Whenua – Shadowland film at the Fiordland Cinema . For $12 NZD, it’s a 32-minute video mostly taken in a helicopter around the fiordlands.

We couldn’t peel our eyes away from the screen as the video panned over icy mountain passes and dropped down massive waterfalls. It was like watching Planet Earth, and if you’re into that, we would recommend the video before you head up the highway. 

The film is shown hourly. There is a bar and sitting area outside the cinema that you can wait for the next showing.

As you work your way north on the Milford Sound Highway, there are many nice stops like Te Anau Downs, Lake Mistletoe Walking Track, and Mirror Lakes.

Where to Stay

Cascade Creek campsite : The closest campsite to Milford Sound. It is $13 NZD per person to camp, but it is free with the DOC Pass.

At the campsite there is the Lake Gunn Nature Walk, a flat 20-30 minute loop through giant mossy trees. We swore we could hear elves signing from the Lord of the Rings, but maybe it was just a long day of driving.

• At a glance: Milford Sound boat cruise or kayak tour in the morning and then 360 degree views of the mountain ranges from Key Summit.
• Distance: 235 km (146 miles)
• Total Drive Time: 4.5 hours

From Cascade Creek Campsite you should plan on at least an hour drive (maybe even 1.5 hours) to get to your Milford Sound cruise or tour. 

The Homer Tunnel is only 1-way and has traffic lights, which means delays can be up to 20 minutes during peak hours. In the early morning, we had to wait about 6 minutes so it wasn’t too bad.

Note: the Milford Sound parking lot is still a 10-minute walk (300 meters) down to the port. Factor that into your time before your tour.

Milford Sound is one of those bucket list places that totally lives up to the hype. The straight up rock walls, the massive waterfalls, and the timid wildlife… It all makes the 2-hour journey down and back the fjord seem to fly by quickly.

We put together a detailed Milford Sound guide with tons of tips for visiting this legendary natural attraction.

Milford Sound tours

Make sure to book your Milford Sound tour a day or two in advance. It will most likely be sold out if you try to book at the port and there is no cell service along Milford Road to book along the way. 

We went with Go Orange Cruises who then transferred us to Real Journeys, but you can compare prices of all tours here .

The cruise ship we took had an inside sitting room with free coffee and hot chocolate, but most people hung out on the open air top deck. The captain was on the intercom telling us facts about the area, history and spotting wildlife.

If you want a more intimate tour, book the Milford Sound Encounter Nature Tour . It’s a bit longer than the regular cruises and you get to be on a smaller boat. You’ll get up closer to wildlife and waterfalls (enough to get wet).

For the active and adventurous travelers, try a kayaking tour of Milford Sound. We really wanted to do this tour as well, but just did not have enough time.

We have a whole guide to booking the best Milford Sound cruise that will help you decide which tour is right for you.

Milford Sound viewpoints

Once your cruise is over, we recommend walking to the end of the port and on to the jetty or breakwater path that protects the port. You’ll be able to get some pretty incredible shots of Mitre Peak from here.

Next head to the lookout behind the parking lot near the information center. It’s a 10-minute return to the viewpoint with a pretty nice view of the fiord.

Once you are done gawking at the beauty of Milford Sound, it’s time to head back down the Milford Road and stop at any of the locations you passed on the way up.

About 10 minutes south from Milford, The Chasm is worth a stop. Just as it sounds, it’s a deep crack in the earth with the raging Claddau River flowing through. It’s about a 10-15 minute loop trail.

Note: As of December 2022, this trail has been closed due to storm damage. Check back on Alltrails to see when it opens back up. 

Lake Marian Falls

About 12.7 km south from the Homer Tunnel, turn left on to the Hollyford Track Road and continue for about 1 km until the car park. Hike over a suspension bridge and up about 10 minutes to a series of beautiful waterfalls. 

After the falls, you could continue up the steep advanced track 1.5 hours one-way to Lake Marian. But if you don’t have a lot of time, we recommend the Key Summit Hike.

Key Summit Hike

• Distance: 4.8 miles (7.72km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 1,374 ft (419m)

This 3-hour return hike is a relatively easy trail for all abilities. You go through a series of switchbacks amongst the forest and then the last 30 minutes is mostly a flat “nature loop” on boardwalks. 

From the top, you get a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains that create the fjordlands. You can even see Lake Marian and the hanging valley it sits in.

Today becomes a long day after all the excitement of Milford Sound and the Key Summit. We recommend getting as far back towards Queenstown as you can. 

A good place to stop and spend the night in the middle is at Lumsden Freedom Camping . It’s a free place to camp/park overnight with a kitchen station and flush toilets. Make sure to read the instructions on where you can park on the Rankers App.

It’s more or less a parking lot near a historic train track, but clean bathrooms and it’s free. Would we recommend it? Yes, if you’re looking for a free place to camp on your way back from Milford Sound.

• At a glance: Arrive in Wanaka and explore around this cute lakeside town
• Distance: 161 km (100 miles)
• Total driving time: Lumsden to Wanaka – 2.5 hours 

Make your way back from the southern fiords through Queenstown and up the scenic Crown Range Rd. 

If it’s wintertime, you could hit the slopes of Cardrona Alpine Resort, or if it’s summer drive up there for the viewpoint, otherwise continue on to Wanaka.

This charming lakeside town quickly draws visitors in and begs them to stay longer than they’d planned. With epic nature to be explored just steps from the center and an inviting small town feel, it’s hard not to fall for Wanaka.

Things to Do in Wanaka

#ThatWanakaTree: Probably the most iconic image of Wanaka is now a viral sensation. The lakefront viewpoint is just west of the city so you could easily walk the 1.5 km from the town center or park at the Wanaka Rotary Playground. It’s a short walk from there, just follow everyone else.

Ethical Travel Note: This famous tree is very fragile. In fact, some tourists have broken off branches while posing in the tree. Please don’t ruin it for everyone and stay on shore.

Wanaka lavender farm : Just a short drive from town you’ll find the beautiful fields of the Wanaka Lavender Farm. The peak season is mid-December through February, but honey tasting, lavender products, alpacas, lawn games, and the lavender garden are open all year round ($2 for adults, free for children under 15).

Hike up Mount Iron Track: This 1.5 hour loop hike overlooks town, the lake and Wanaka valley.

Go kayaking, SUPing or swimming in the lake: Rent a kayak or SUP, or take a kayak tour on Lake Wanaka . There are a few places around Wanaka where you can go swimming, check out this list of swimming holes .

Rippon Vineyard : No better way to end a day of exploring than a wine tasting. Rippon Cellar Door is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and they don’t have a set price for wine tastings. They simply ask if you want you can contribute to their Habitat Restoration program. Groups of 7 or more need to make a reservation.

Cinema Paradiso : Great rainy day activity (or in my opinion, any day activity). This local movie theater has couches and regular movie seats, and even the front half a car for your own drive-in experience. They have an intermission for each movie, in which you must get the freshly baked cookies. Be sure to get tickets in advance.

Related Reading: 75+ Best Travel Movies to Inspire Your Wanderlust

Where to eat and drink in Wanaka

• The Doughbin Bakery : Best meat pie in New Zealand (and we sampled a lot!) Try the lamb and mint or the curry chicken. Eat in the cafe or take it to go and stroll the waterfront.
• Kai Whakapai Eatery : Meaning “food made good”, this popular taproom/restaurant sits right on the corner of the main street in town and close to the wharf. Typical New Zealand bar food and light bites served with tasty craft and local beers.
• Cork : This charming bar has over 100 different wines, craft brews, and signature cocktails to choose from. Try to swing by when they have live music.

Where to Stay in Wanaka

• Cost: $21 NZD per person per night.
• Cost: $7 NZD per person per night.

• At a glance: Long day hike around Wanaka
• Distance: 73 km (45 miles)
• Total driving time: At most 1 hour

In Wanaka, there are so many different hikes to choose from, but the most popular hike is Roys Peak. 

After hearing it was infamous for being crowded, we wanted to get a second opinion. We went to the Wanaka iSite (Visitors Center) and asked the woman behind the desk her opinion between Roys or Isthmus Peak. 

She said, “ Well, both hikes have beautiful views. Both are steep and take around the same amount of time. Roys is busier. Much busier. ”

When we asked her which she would recommend she just answered, “ It depends on whether you want to hike with dozens of other people or have the trail more to yourself. ” So she didn’t want to commit to choosing one, but the way she said it kind of let us know her pick!

If you want to do Roys, the trailhead is much closer to Wanaka. The Isthmus trailhead is about 30 minutes drive away. Each hike takes about the same amount of time, 5-6 hours return.

We’re not saying Roys Peak is a bad choice, but when we are in nature, we want to be surrounded by (surprise!) nature, and not selfie sticks. 

We had a great time hiking Isthmus Peak and the views are stunning . Not only do you get to see Lake Wanaka at the top, but you’re staring at the beautiful blue-green Lake Hawea the entire hike up.

We would also recommend doing Isthmus Peak if you’re following this itinerary since you will be heading to the Haast Pass next, cutting down your gas and driving time.

How to Hike Isthmus Peak

• Distance: 9.7 miles (15.6 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 3,677 ft (1118 m)

Drive north on Hwy 6 along Lake Hawea. Just before the road turns west toward the isthmus of the two lakes, there is a small lot to park in. (It’s easy to miss, so watch for it! It’s also not the pin on Google Maps). 

In the lot there is an outhouse and signs to the path. If you don’t want to use the outhouse, there are public toilets at Craigburn Beach on Lake Hawea.

At the beginning, there are a few gates you have to cross through (meant to keep livestock out).

The hike is incredible! Seriously the views don’t stop the whole way up! 

I told Ben I was going to try to not take too many photos at the beginning of the hike… Five minutes in I had the camera out and was already snapping away. It kept getting better every 100 meters. 

It’s a steep hike, especially at the start and takes a good chunk of your day but it is so worthwhile. Bring enough water (at least 2 liters/person) & snacks. 

Hiking time: For us it was 2.5 hours ascend, 30 minute lunch break, 1.45 descent – plan for 5-6 hours.

Where to stay

After the hike, continue the scenic drive up north on Hwy 6, through “the Neck” and camp at Boundary Creek Campsite . Toilet and sinks available. $8 per person per night or free with the DOC Campsite Pass.

Option to stay overnight at Brewster Hut 

• At a glance: Big day of driving over Haast Pass, stopping at waterfalls, rivers and lakes.
• Distance: 237 km (147 miles)
• Total driving time: 4 hours + 1 hour of stopping at sights

Haast Pass is a playground for roaring rivers and massive waterfalls. Today might seem like a sightseeing frenzy but each stop gets better than the last.

Over the pass, you are entering the West Coast of New Zealand , one of the sparsely populated and rough areas in all of NZ. Be prepared for drive times to be longer than you think and be cautious because emergency crews take longer to arrive in this area.

Blue Pools Walk

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 282 ft (86 m)

One of the best short walks in the South Island of New Zealand! This relatively flat walk brings you through the forest and opens up at a suspension bridge crossing the Makarora River. 

The second swing bridge is the viewing platform for the Blue Pools. If you’re feeling brave, dip your toes in by the river, the water is ice cold! The hike takes a total time of around 1 hour.

Fantail Falls

Short drive from the Blue Pools is the 23-meter Fantail Falls. View this waterfall from a short distance, because the Haast River crosses in front of it. 

Plenty of smooth rock and river cairns people have created. This is also the trailhead for the 6-hour return hike up the Brewsters Hut.

Brewster Hut (adds an extra day)

• Distance: 3.3 miles (5.3 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 3,156 ft (962 m)

Sitting below the giant mountains and glaciers of the Mount Aspiring National Park is the 12-bunk Brewster Hut. We’ve written about our experience hiking to the hut in our West Coast article (scroll to #3!), including a description of the trail and what to pack. 

Note: If you have time to overnight here, we recommend it, however it would add a day to this itinerary.

Gates of Haast

A powerful river flowing through monstrous boulders spanned by a steel bridge. It’s beautiful to drive over, but there is not really a good spot to pull over and get out. Unless you walk from the Thunder Creek Falls pull out.

Thunder Creek Falls

Literally a 2-minute walk to an impressive 92-meter waterfall. That’s it, short and sweet.

Roaring Billy Falls

Yet another loud waterfall that seems to appear out of the woods. The parking lot here is small and therefore you might be forced to skip it.

Matheson Lake

Turn left out of Fox Glacier and head straight for Lake Matheson. This reflective lake is a postcard waiting to happen. 

Capture the lake and the snow-capped mountains in the distance as you make the 2.6 km loop around the lake. The easy walk would take you 1.5 hours.

Franz Josef Glacier

Make sure you plan on saving time for this 5.4 km (1.5 hour) return flat hike to Franz Josef Glacier. You can do it on your own or we would recommend doing the afternoon tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours .

Glacier Hot Pools

Wow, what a day! The best way to cap off this epic day on the South Island of New Zealand it so soak in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools . Be sure to book ahead of time.

Tatare Tunnels Walk

If you want an off the beaten path adventure, this 80-minute walk through old tunnels is a decent place to see glow worms for free! These tunnels were used by miners to transport water, but are now abandoned (though it is possible that your feet will get wet!). Be sure to bring a headlamp, and check out the DOC website for more information!

Glow Worms Nightwalk

The Terrace Walk, on the south side of Franz Josef, is a dark forest covered path that at night you’ll be able to spot the blue hues of glow worms. 30-minute return walk or just go in and turn around when you’ve seen enough glow worms. 

Rainforest Retreat Holiday Park , trust us, you won’t regret staying here.

Day 11: Helicopter Ride and then drive to Hokitika

• At a glance: Fly over the glaciers in the morning, visit the kiwi center and then drive up to artsy Hokitika.
• Distance: 200 km (124 miles)
• Total driving time: 3 hours

This will be one of the most diverse days in the whole South Island Itinerary. So get ready for a wild ride.

Helicopter Ride over Franz Josef Glacier

Since you walked up to the glacier yesterday, you might as well fly over it today. Schedule your flight for early in the morning just in case the weather is not cooperating and gets delayed. 

We did the 40-minute scenic flight with Helicopter Line , but many of the companies have similar services. Read about our experience in our West Coast article.

White Heron Sanctuary Tour

If you like to keep your feet on the ground (for the most part) and are into rare birds, we recommend the White Heron Sanctuary Tour . The tour will take you to the only breeding area for the White Heron in all of New Zealand. 

Note: Before you head to Whataroa, be sure to visit the Wildlife Centre to see the kiwi bird.

West Coast Wildlife Centre

Kiwi birds are very rare to find in the wild. Especially since their population numbers have decreased due to invasive mammals. 

Head to the West Coast Wildlife Centre to learn about the program that is rebuilding the population and see two of the famous kiwis in a nocturnal housing. Check out the backstage pass tour for a look into how the rangers are hatching these rare birds.

Ross Gold mines

The West Coast of New Zealand has a gold rush similar to what happened in the west coast of the U.S.A. and the tiny town of Ross was a hot spot for gold. Try your hand at panning for gold or take a short hike to spot gold rush artifacts.

If you want a great spot to stop for the night, the new Ross Top 10 Holiday Park is awesome. Right up on the beach, this modern holiday park has a kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as container home (tiny home) style hotel rooms you can rent.

But if you have more time in the day we recommend continuing on to Hokitika, and if you want you can backtrack 20 minutes to Ross Top 10 Holiday Park.

Jade Carving at Bonz N Stonz Studio

Take home a very special souvenir from your time in the South Island New Zealand by carving a jade necklace. Design, cut and sculpt a jade necklace with the help of a local teacher. 

Be sure to come with an idea in mind to speed up the process a bit because it took us over 4 hours from start to finish. Check out Bonz N Stonz for some inspiration and to book your carving.

Hokitika Gorge

End the day by driving 30 minutes inland from the city to Hokitika Gorge. The Hokitika River is fed by glaciers and has a baby blue hue to it because of the rock flour. 

The 15-minute round trip walk is stunning, but watch out for the sandflies. A little bit of baby oil helps keep the sandflies from biting.

Do you have less than 2 weeks in New Zealand?

Head back to Christchurch through Arthur’s Pass (Hwy 73)!

We didn’t take that route, but I have some places in mind for our next visit! My parents and brother crossed that way and really enjoyed it.

Arthur’s Pass is supposed to be beautiful and here are a few things to see along the route:

• Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall: Hike 1 km from the highway and reach a massive 131-meter waterfall. Hike: Roundtrip 2 km, 90 meter elevation change
• Castle Hill: Huge boulders scattered throughout the hill. This area is also called Kura Tawhiti, and is a sacred area, so be respectful and stay on the track.
• My brother recommended the Cave Stream Hike , but make sure the weather is okay before doing it because I think the water levels can rise a lot (and you walk through the water). Prepare for the hike with more information here .
• At a glance: Last day on the West Coast. Our favorite tour in the South Island Itinerary and a bit of driving to get to Abel Tasman.
• Distance: 386 km (240 miles)
• Total driving time: 5.5 hours

Make sure to start your day early because there is a lot packed into it. 

Double check on the weather in Abel Tasman. If it looks to be rainy, we would say it is not worth the drive and stay in Nelson. However, if you have extra days in your itinerary, we would recommend doing some hikes around Abel Tasman. More on that on Day 13.

Punakaiki “Pancake Rocks” and BlowHoles

About an hour and half north of Hokitika is one of the most famous landmarks on the West Coast, Punakaiki or “Pancake Rocks”. 

It’s a 20-minute loop walk around these limestone formations. And at certain times of the day, the tides splash up water through blowholes.

Truman Track

• Elevation gain: 118 ft (36 m)

Just a 10-minute drive north of the Pancake Rocks is the 1.3 km return track (30 minutes) through a subtropical forest emerging onto a white sand beach. The Truman Track is a nice walk and worth the stop, but make sure you have enough time to get to the glow worm cave tour next!

Underworld Caving and Glow Worm Rafting Tour

The Underworld Rafting tour was our favorite tour we did in this South Island itinerary!  

A 4-hour tour may seem long, but you’re doing so many different things. From exploring huge cave rooms to floating on your back and looking up at millions of glow worms to tubing down rapids of river, time seems to fly by.

Read more about our experience in our West Coast article (#1 on the list!) and be sure to book your tour in advance.

Tauranga Bay Seal Colony

Next, make your way up Hwy 6 and head to the seal colony at Tauranga Bay. It’s a short walk (500 m, 15 min) to the view platform to watch the seal breeding colony. 

If you have more time, continue walking another 2.5 km to the Cape Foulwind Lighthouse (to be honest, the views of the beach are more impressive than the lighthouse).

If you had enough excitement for the day, we would recommend the Carters Beach Top 10 Holiday Park in Westport. It’s a very large campground, has a huge kitchen and clean facilities. And it’s steps away from Carters Beach.

Lake Rotoroa

Say goodbye to the West Coast and start heading inland on Hwy 6 toward Nelson and onward to Abel Tasman. A good stopping point along the journey is at Lake Rotoroa. 

Enjoy the view of the glossy lake sitting still below the colossal mountains of Nelson Lakes National Park. There are many hikes starting from the lakeshore if you’re keen to go adventuring.

Sometimes you’ll find campgrounds that seem like hidden gems, Kina Beach Reserve Camping is one of them. 

Situated right on the shore of Tasman Bay, this campground is only $5 NZD per person. The drop toilets are okay, but the owners are very kind. Find it on the Rankers App.

• At a glance: Explore around Abel Tasman National Park
• Distance: Up to 75 km (46 miles)
• Total driving time: Up to 1.5 hours

When researching what to do around Abel Tasman, it can get confusing. Basically, it’s a national park where all the hiking is along the eastern shore, in and out of bays. 

There are two ways to enter Abel Tasman: From Takaka or from Marahau. Think of access to Abel Tasman as the letter “C”, with Takaka as the top of the “C” and Marahau as the bottom of the “C”.

Here is our recommendation:

• If you’re wanting to do a full-day kayak and hiking tour on the Abel Tasman track, you have nice weather, and are able to spend $165-$200 NZD per person, start from Marahau.
• We choose Takaka because of those reasons, but it is really up to you.

Drive early up over the windy Takaka Hill and into Takaka. Be sure to stop off at Hawkes Lookout for a great view of the valley. There are plenty of things to do around Takaka, near Abel Tasman and we’ve outlined a few of the highlights below. 

Kayak and hike Abel Tasman from Marahau

Book your tour in advance to make sure they are running trips. There are many kayak companies, like Kahu Kayaks and Abel Tasman Kayaks. Each of them offer different types of trips like half-day to full-day. If we were to go to Abel Tasman again, we would do a full-day trip.

Most trips are a combination of kayaking for a few hours out into the park (or possibly ride in a water taxi), have lunch in the jungle or on the beach, and hike a few hours back to Marahau. We heard from other travelers that the tour is pretty epic and we’ll be doing one next time we come to New Zealand.

Ngarua Caves

This large and built-up cave has guided tours hourly during summer months from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In the winter you must make a booking ahead of time. 

It costs $20 NZD for adults and $8 NZD for children ages 5-15 years old.

Te Waikoropupū Springs

Known to be the clearest freshwater springs in the world and the largest cold water spring in the southern hemisphere, this is a sacred spot for the Māori people. Take the short 20 walk around the springs and be respectful and do not touch the water.

The Grove Scenic Reserve

This 40-minute return easy hike will bring you though carved limestone rocks that have been taken over by large northern rātā trees and palm trees. The turn around point is a viewing platform that looks out over the open fields and bay.

Drive to Tata Beach and Wainui Falls Hike

• Distance: 2.1 miles (3.4 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 344 ft (105 m)

Walk along the beach of this sleepy beach town. You can rent kayaks from Golden Bay Kayaks or take a guided tour.

If you continue driving along Abel Tasman Drive, the windy road will lead you to Wainui Bay. To your right you can turn off toward Wainui Falls and make the 3.4 km, 1 hour and 20 minute return easy hike if you have time.

Anatoki Salmon Fishing

Catch your own Chinook Salmon! Okay, so you’re not fishing out in the wild on a river. It’s from a farm fed lake that is stocked, so it’s pretty easy. 

Well, kind of. You still have to catch and reel in your own fish, which took us about 15 minutes.

After catching your meal, you bring your fish to the cook. It’s $26 NZD per kg and they have various ways they can prepare it, like smoked or raw sashimi.

We caught a 1.2 kilo fish (which the cook said was average) and you can check the average fish sizes on their helpful website . The fish and a side of garlic break was enough to feed three of us for lunch.

Harwoods Hole Track 

• Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km), out and back
• Elevation gain: 249 ft (76 m)

If you’re up for an adventure, take the 45-minute one-way tramping track to Hardwoods Hole, New Zealand’s deepest vertical shaft. Basically it’s a giant hole in the ground! 

We didn’t get a chance to go, but a local said it’s a pretty cool sight. Be careful though, read all the directions and warnings on the DOC website . Don’t get too close to the hole’s edge! This hike is not recommended for children.

Where to Stay 

Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park : Right up on the beach, equipped with a kitchen and clean facilities. There are plenty of little cabins if you want a break from your campervan.

If you want a free campervan site, check out the Waitapu River Campervan Park, you can find it on Rankers App. Only one drop toilet and a big muddy lot, but it’s free. Don’t park too close to the river as it can rise in the night.

• At a glance: Walk around Nelson and sample wines from New Zealand’s famous vineyards
• Distance: 352 km (218 miles)

Head out of Abel Tasman and drive along the coast to Nelson. Park along the Queen’s Garden for cheap street parking. Stretch your legs and walk around the beautiful Queen’s Garden botanical park.

Walk south on Trafalgar Street heading toward the Christ Church, walking by many restaurants and cafes. 

On Saturdays there is a farmer’s market in Montgomery Square from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. And on Sundays there is a recycled treasures and vintage collectables market in the same spot and time.

Marlborough Wine

When traveling in New Zealand, we really got into New Zealand wines. We’re not always big wine drinkers (okay we do drink wine, but we’re not picky) and we tend to go in wine phases. 

Plus, since it’s hard to keep beers cold in a campervan, red wine is a great alternative because it doesn’t have to be cooled down.

We typically only drink red wine, but when our friend back home turned us on to the Sauvignon Blanc white wines of Marlborough region, we have been itching to try them out from the source.

Saint Clair Family Estate Winery

There are loads of wineries to choose from when driving from Nelson to Kaikoura and I’m sure they are all good. There are even wine (and beer) tours that will shuttle you around from one tasting to the next. 

We settled on the Saint Clair Family Estate Winery just outside of Blenheim, and we were pleasantly surprised.

They had various tasting amounts: a tasting of 3 wines for $5, 6 wines for $8, 8 wines for $10 (one complimentary tasting if you purchase a bottle of wine). We split a tasting of 8 wines and bought a bottle. If you want to enjoy it in their lovely outdoor seating area (you should if the weather is nice!), there is a fee.

Our bottle was about $25 NZD and the fee to open it on-site was about $6 (varies depending on the wine you choose). So it ended up being about $20 USD for 8 tastings and a bottle of one of the best white wines I’ve ever tasted, in a beautiful vineyard setting. Not bad at all!

Note: With this South Island Itinerary, you still have about a 2-hour drive to get to Kaikoura, so please drink responsibly. For us, we went to Kaikoura first, then on our way back up to catch the ferry in Picton to the North Island, we visited the vineyard and stayed in Blenheim.

But if you do spend the night near Blenheim or Picton, we heard great things about the Queen Charlotte Track , even if you do a little bit of it. We will be visiting this hiking trail the next time we’re in NZ.

Bonus stop: Ohau Point on Hwy 1 there is a lookout point to spot a seal colony. It’s easy to miss the small parking lot on the ocean side, but it’s worth a 5-minute stop.

Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park – Big kitchen, clean bathrooms and showers, game room and movie room. And a hot tub!

• At a glance: Swim with dusky dolphins in the ocean at sunrise and take a whale watching tour before heading back to Christchurch
• Distance: 181 km (112 miles)
• Total driving time: 2.5 hours

Kaikoura Dolphin Encounter

It’s an early wake up call, but totally worth it because you get to swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. We loved this tour and highly recommend it to all travelers to the South Island.

Kaikoura Dolphin Encounter will get you all suited up with 7mm wetsuits to endure the cold oceanic waters. They have special techniques for how to attract the dolphins once you are in the water, and it’s pretty hilarious. 

We share our experience and our tips in the Dolphin Encounter article here !

Ethical Travel Tip: It is always good to question animal tourism activities. We did a lot of research on this company and we support what they are doing. They are the only company in the area that does these dolphin tours and they do not bait the animals. We had to boat out far to find the pod of dolphins. Dolphin Encounter has a foundation that supports marine and environmental programs.

After the swim, grab lunch at Coopers Catch . They have a huge serving of fish and chips for $8 NZD. Then hop across the street and get a cone at Poppy’s Parlour for homemade ice cream.

Whale watching

Join an afternoon tour to go spot the giant sperm whales. This is the only company in the region that goes searching for the whales and they do a great job. 

The captain of the boat describes the history and biology of the sperm whales, while describing the process they use to follow the clicks these massive creatures make to communicate.

Check-in times for the tours are 7:15 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:45 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. (Nov-Mar only).  Plan on 3.5 hours for the tours starting at check-in. 

They have a 95% success rate of seeing whales, and on the unfortunate event you don’t get to see one, they will refund you 80% of your ticket.

Adult tickets are $150 NZD and children (3-15 year old) are $60 NZD. Be sure to book your tour in advance!

Flying out of Christchurch?

After your last tour of the day, head down to Christchurch for your flight out. If you’re continuing your New Zealand journey to the North Island , head back up Hwy 1 to Picton to catch the ferry. 

If you plan on staying the night in Picton, there is a free campsite called Collins Memorial Reserve, but try to get there early because there are only 12 spots and it is monitored regularly.

Taking the Ferry to the North Island?

The Cook Strait Ferry operates between the North and South Islands in New Zealand, connecting the cities of Wellington and Picton. The ferry service provides both passenger and vehicle transportation, making it a vital link for travelers exploring both islands.

Not only is it an efficient way to get from one island to the other (especially if you are traveling by campervan or car), the ferry is an iconic journey across the Cook Strait with incredible views. Many people believe it’s the most scenic ferry crossing in the world! 

There are two companies that run ferries (Interislander and Blue Bridge) and they are quite similar, both in price and ride. Both ferries leave from Picton and take about 3 hours to reach Wellington.

Interislander Cook Strait Ferry

Port address/Vehicle Check-in: 3 Auckland St, Picton 7220, New Zealand

Ferries tend to fill up fast. Make sure to book a few days in advance and at least 1 week ahead of time during peak season (Dec-Feb).

Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry

Equally as good as the Interislander.

Port address/Vehicle Check-in: 1 Lagoon Rd, Picton 7250, New Zealand

What to pack to for this South Island New Zealand itinerary

We created an entire campervan packing list that is packed full of tips! Our packing list details everything we packed for New Zealand (plus those things we wished we would have brought!).

You can download this 7-page PDF totally FREE! No catch. Just give us the best email to send it to.

New Zealand packing tips

• Less is more: Overpacking is always something we try to avoid. But it is especially important to pack light for a campervan trip, as you will be living in a tiny space. Every square inch counts, and you will be living in clutter if you don’t pack light. 
• Keep it casual: New Zealand isn’t really the place to bring your fancy clothes. (Unless you’re an Instagram model. In which case, teach me how to pose, pretty please!)
• Bring layers: Weather in New Zealand is highly unpredictable and can change on a dime. You may encounter snow, rain and humid sunshine all in the same day. Pack layers and a rain jacket to be prepared for it all!
• Packing cubes are your friend: Having a place for everything in a campervan will make your life exponentially easier. We use packing cubes no matter what type of trip we’re on (umm, they compress AND organize!). But they are especially helpful for organizing clothes and toiletries in a campervan.
• Baby wipes & dry shampoo : These items work wonders between showers when living out of a campervan. Your travel partner will thank you!
• Don’t worry if you forget something: Most toiletries and clothing items are easy to pick up in New Zealand. For the cheapest prices and biggest selection, we’d recommend going to The Warehouse.

Are you planning a trip to New Zealand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in New Zealand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Adventurous Things to Do in Queenstown
• Best Time to Visit New Zealand: When to Go & When to Avoid!
• North Island New Zealand Road Trip: Perfect 2-Week Itinerary
• The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Campervan Trip in New Zealand

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We want to hear from you!

What do you think of our South Island Itinerary? What do you love, what would you change, what would you add? We want to hear it all in the comments below.

Comments (23) on “ South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip ”

Thanks for this Itinerary. We followed your itinerary with a few changes and had an amazing trip of the south Island.

Love your itineraries. We are also planning a trip to Iceland. Would you recommend spending time in Franz or Fox glacier and/or Vatnajökull Glacier hike? Also if you have been to Yellowstone, is Rototuna worth it?

Hi, Its a wounderful post.Thanks for your nice post. Do you know? There is a lot to love in New Zealand, and after years of being locked in (and locked out), locals have been embracing domestic tourism.

We are coming from Oz next week and love the sound of your south island itinerary – can I please get the PDF mentioned below email; [email protected]

Many thanks

Hi Vicki, We actually have a condensed version of our North and South Island itineraries combined in a printable PDF. If you enter your email in the link below, we send it straight to you: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/j0o7b1 (due to email regulations, you have to enter your email and opt-in to receive it. We can’t just send it along, sorry) Hope this helps! Cheers!

Hello! I entered my email at the above link, but never received the printable PDF of the condensed version of the North and South Island itineraries. Is there a different way/link for me to get it? Thank you!

Hey there just stumbled across this gem and even as a kiwi myself this is an amazing guide! Cheers

Hi there! Do you have a printable version of the 2 week South island trip? Would love to be able to have it all slightly condensed :] Thanks!

Hey Jenessa! We actually have a condensed version of our North and South Island itineraries combined in a printable PDF. If you enter your email in the link below, we send it straight to you: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/j0o7b1 Hope this helps! Cheers!

Love your guide and marking every POI on google maps for myself. I find it awkward that you have Roaring Billy Falls next to Matheson Lake as if those places are nearby. They are at least 1 day driving apart, it seems. Or your text is truncated and missing some paragraphs. How do you explain that?

Hey Slawa, Thanks for your comment. I agree Day 10 is a big day! In fact, we broke it up in two days because we hiked to Brewsters Hut (which I highly recommend if you have the time and are into hiking). As with most itineraries, they are simply suggestions on things to do for each day and you’ll get to pick what you are interested in. However, we did all the things on Day 10 except for the short trip to Lake Matheson because we had a tour in Franz Josef. From Wanaka to Franz Josef, it is about 4.5-6 hours plus stops along the day for viewpoints. Totally do-able in a LONG day. I hope this helps.

Hi! My husband and I are leaving for NZ for our honeymoon on Christmas Day. Would you recommend staying 2 nights in Franz Josef or in Milford Sound?

First off, Congratulations! What a great place to spend your honeymoon. I would say this depends on weather in both areas. In Milford Sound, the boat cruise is wonderful, but the throughout the Milford Sound Highway there are tons of hikes, viewpoints, and turns outs to explore. We spent two days exploring that region. I would save your boat cruise for the nicer of the two days. If it’s bad weather in Franz Josef, it’s tough to do anything besides go to the thermal pools. But if it’s nice weather, the hike up to the glacier is pretty great! We spent one night in Franz Josef and it was really nice. I hope this help your choice!

Hi love the article — we are thinking of doing the campervan route — and your itinerary is great. One question is around the bathroom/showers — how did that work??

You should check out our NZ campervan articles because we have tons of info on bathrooms and showers. In short, bathrooms are everywhere in NZ and you can find coin showers (sometimes free) in most cities and major campgrounds/holiday parks.

Love the article. Great tips on hikes. What do you recommend for a 16 day trip to both islands? Do you have a combined itinerary? In the South Island, if you had to choose, would you go to Mt Cook or the Franz Josef glacier?

I would recommend sticking to just one island if you only have 16 days (and by one I mean the south island!) Mt. Cook or Franz Josef, ekk! That’s a tough choice! Mt. Cook village is pretty amazing and the Hooker Valley track is incredible. But Franz Josef is a neat little town and the hike to the glacier is pretty remarkable. If I had to choose I would say, do both! Haha. But if I had to, had to choose, I’d say Mt. Cook. But with 16 days in the south island you could easily do both. I hope this helps.

At what time of the year you’ve made your trip?

Would like to know this as well.

We traveled to New Zealand from mid-November 2018 to mid-December. When are you planning on going?

The whole month of November 2020!

The most impressive guide I’ve seen around PERIOD. Thank you for sharing this itinerary. Really informative and useful.

Hey Thanks, JR! Glad you like the article!

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The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

With its snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, rolling verdant hills, incredibly friendly locals, and abundant world-class wine, New Zealand is as wonderful as you’ve heard. In fact, take what you’ve heard and times it by ten. Because New Zealand will simply blow your mind when you visit.

People think because it’s a small country, you can see it all in two weeks. Unfortunately, that’s not true. There’s a lot to do here. From the north island to the south island, you need a lot of time here to see the highlights. You could literally fill months with activities and still only scratch the surface. New Zealand may be small but it punches above its weight with things to do.

But what if you don’t have months? What do you do then? What route do you take? What island should you start with? Where do you go?

Or what if you do have a month to spend? Then what? Where do you begin planning your New Zealand itinerary?

Below are my suggested itineraries that can help you plan your New Zealand road trip for maximum efficiency. Whether you have two weeks, one month, or even longer, these itineraries will ensure that you see the highlights and get off the beaten path.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

New Zealand Itinerary Highlights

Choosing the right vehicle.

• Two-Week North Island Route
• Two-Week South Island Route
• One Month Itinerary
• Things to Remember

Note : Two weeks is the minimum recommended time for a New Zealand road trip. There’s so much to see and do here, yet you still don’t want to be rushed or spend all your time in the car. If you only have two weeks, focus on one island.  

• Hike the Franz Josef Glacier
• See the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Visit Hobbiton
• Experience a Maori Cultural Show
• Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Go skydiving or bungy jumping
• Explore Fiordland National Park

Want more info on these activities (and many others)? I cover them all below!  

• Travellers Autobarn
• Wicked Campers

Prices vary a lot. Your daily rate will change depending on where you pick up the vehicle, if you are dropping it off at a different place, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when you book (in the high season, prices seem to double!).

If living out of a van for a few weeks doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun time, simply rent a normal car and book accommodation along the way. To book a car, check out Discover Cars , which searches rental agencies big and small to find the best deals.

If you plan to drive New Zealand, you can use this widget to get a free quote for your car rental:

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week North Island Route

Days 1–2: auckland.

Spend some time hanging out on the Auckland Domain, go snorkelling on Goat Island , and if you love wine like I do, take a wine tour on Waiheke Island .

For a list of more things to do in Auckland, check out my guide to the city!

Where to Stay : The Albion – This historic accommodation began as a “pub hotel” in the 19th century. Today there’s still a nice old tavern in the hotel. The rooms are comfortable and the place is quiet.

Days 3-4: Bay of Islands

While you’re here you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (one of the most important historical sites in the country), explore Cape Reinga (the northernmost point of New Zealand), and see wild dolphins on a boat tour .

For a list of more things to do in Bay of Islands, check out my complete guide!

Where to Stay : Haka Lodge – Located in Paihia, Haka Lodge has a lot of common spaces, a large kitchen, and great views over the harbor. Everything is super clean and the beds are comfortable. It’s a good place to meet people.

Day 5: Hobbiton

To see Hobbiton, you’ll have to take a tour that starts with a drive through the owner’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm, offering epic views over the Kaimai Range. From here, you can explore Bag End, wander around the hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. Tours start at 89 NZD.

Where to Stay : Cosy Country Stay B&B – This is a cute bed-and-breakfast located in Matamata just a few miles from Hobbiton. The hosts are fantastic, there’s complimentary breakfast, and the property is quiet and tranquil, with roaming cats and goats for added atmosphere.

Days 6–7: Rotorua

The Maori were the original inhabitants of New Zealand, having arrived from Polynesia between 1320 and 1350. This is the best area to learn about Maori history and culture . Don’t miss seeing a Maori cultural show while you’re here (the Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience is the one I attended).

The region is also known for its geothermal activity, and the dynamic landscape makes for exciting nature walks, trips to smelly sulfuric geysers, and soaks in luxury spas with water from the hot springs.

Where to Stay : Rock Solid Backpackers – This is a centrally located hostel with an expansive array of facilities, including a cinema, a bar, a communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall.

Day 8: Waitomo

You can walk, abseil, or float down an underground river to see them. A 45-minute rafting trip is the standard visit, but if you want to go abseiling (also known as rappelling) there’s a five-hour option too. Prices start at 55 NZD for a boat tour and 195 NZD for extended tours with abseiling.

For a complete list of things to do in Waitomo, check out my guide on the town.

Where to Stay : Juno Hall – Close to the glowworm caves, Juno Hall has a swimming pool and tennis court on-site. There’s a large kitchen as well as an outdoor grill for barbecuing.

Days 9-10: Taupo

It’s also one of the best places to go skydiving in New Zealand thanks to the views and clear skies (though I didn’t do this while I was there).

I loved the small-town feel of Taupo, sitting by the lake, and being able to do so many hikes. I could have stayed here for weeks.

For a list of more things to do in Taupo, check out my guide!

Where to Stay : Finlay Jack’s has a huge kitchen, a big common room, a spacious patio with BBQs, fun and welcoming staff, bike rentals, and a super friendly hostel dog. Everything in the hostel is updated, with new, modern pod-style beds so you can get a great night’s sleep. In short, everything a backpacker or budget traveler would want from a hostel.

Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

As you wind your way through Tongariro National Park, you’ll walk through volcanic terrain (including where Mordor in Lord of the Rings was filmed), past high peaks and sulfur lakes, and end the day in a dense forest. It’s easy in parts (the beginning and end) and steep in others (especially the portion after “Mount Doom”), so you’ll get a good mix of difficulty levels.

Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, toilet paper, and a sweater or jacket (the weather can change rapidly). Expect to pay around 50 NZD per person for a round-trip shuttle to and from the trail or 325 NZD for a full-day guided hike .

Where to Stay : National Park Alpine Lodge – Located in National Park Village (the best place to stay if doing the trek), this lodge features budget-friendly private rooms, a communal kitchen and common area (with a cozy fireplace for cold nights!), and a helpful staff.

Otherwise, you can stay in Taupo, which is where people usually base themselves when they do this trek.

Days 12–14: Wellington

Be sure to visit Te Papa (New Zealand’s national museum), ride the cable car to the Cable Car Museum, and tour Weta Workshop (an Academy Award–winning props and special effects studio).

For a list of more things to do in Wellington, check out my detailed guide to the city.

Where to Stay : The Marion – This boutique hostel is just blocks away from everything you’ll want to see. It’s cozy, with comfy beds and large bathrooms, and the staff really go out of their way to make you feel welcome. It’s a clean, social spot to relax and meet other travelers.

If you’ve only got two weeks and are ending your 14-day New Zealand itinerary in Wellington, you can fly out of the airport here to wherever you need to go next. If you have more time, you’ll take the car ferry (around 3.5 hours) to Picton on the South Island to continue your trip (in which case, follow the following two-week South Island itinerary, but in reverse).  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route

If you choose the South Island for your two-week road trip, start in Queenstown. Even if your international flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you can easily get a cheap flight to Queenstown. Queenstown also has direct flights to many major cities in Australia if your trip to New Zealand is part of a larger adventure in Oceania.

Days 1-3: Queenstown

Known as “the adventure capital of New Zealand” (it’s the launching pad for every sort of adventure activity you can think of), Queenstown lives up to the hype. Even though it has become hugely popular, I cannot express my love of Queenstown enough. I love sitting by the lake, watching the sunset with a bottle of wine, and hiking the nearby trails.

Explore nearby vineyards, enjoy the waters of Lake Wakatipu, or go bungy jumping, ziplining, rafting, or skydiving . There’s a lot to do here.

For a list of more things to do in Queenstown, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms have balconies, the showers have excellent water pressure, and the pillows are thick. There are activities every night and a free dinner and quiz night on Sunday. Overall, this is a great place to stay.

Days 4-6: Fiordland

Milford Sound is an amazing fjord that’s best known for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You can walk the wooded trail along the sandy shore for perfect views of the peak, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get close to powerful waterfalls.

The fjord itself is home to seal and penguin colonies. You can often see pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters too. Explore by boat and check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral and other underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the only company doing cruises that include the Underwater Observatory. Cruises start from 165 NZD .

While less well-known than Milford, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord in the country. You can only get to Doubtful via boat. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound costs 299 NZD.

Where to Stay : Milford Sound Lodge – This is quite literally the only place to stay within about 50 kilometers (31 miles). It’s not cheap, but the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is delicious, and the contemporary rooms are cozy yet modern. Otherwise, if you have a car, you can stay in the closest town, Te Anau where you’ll find cheaper accommodation.

Days 7-8: Wanaka

For a list of more things to do in Wanaka, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Mountain View Backpackers – This hostel has a huge outdoor space with a grill, space to lie in the sun, and a big table to congregate around (there were many enjoyable nights spent drinking wine outdoors).

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Hiking the glaciers here is an unforgettable experience. Sadly, because they have receded and are melting quickly due to climate change, the caves and walks have been shut down. Now, the only way to trek on the glaciers is via heli-hike ( an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/hiking experience ). These are expensive (500 NZD), but the helicopter ride, trekking, and experience as a whole are worth the price in my opinion.

Conversely, you can just hike to the glacier face and take photos from a distance. There are tons of viewing points (and you’ll see photos of just how far the glaciers have receded over the years).

Where to Stay : Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Just a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging offers free homemade soup every night, free breakfast (homemade waffles and pancakes!), two communal kitchens, and a hot tub.

Days 10–11: Abel Tasman National Park

The best way to see the park is by kayak, so you can explore the little coves and beaches that really make the area special. Full-day rentals start at around 110 NZD, or you can join a guided kayaking tour starting at 190 NZD. You can also take a scenic cruise around the park for 95 NZD.

Where to Stay : Marahau Beach Camp – Offers both dormitories and small private cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are also tent and campervan sites if you want to save money.

From here, pick your last stop: either drive onwards to Christchurch and end there or take the ferry over to Wellington (an adventure in and of itself!) and end there. Either way, you’ll be able to catch a cheap and quick flight back to Auckland for your international flight home.

If you’re heading to Christchurch, keep reading. If you’d like to visit Wellington, scroll back up and follow the tips in the North Island itinerary section.

Days 12-14: Christchurch

While there’s not a lot “to do” per se, the vibe here is really relaxed, and it’s worth not rushing through if you aren’t short on time. Be sure to ride the gondola , visit the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake City (a unique and interactive museum that recounts personal stories from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For a list of more things to do in Christchurch, check out my city guide.

Where to Stay : Urbanz – This is an awesome hostel located in downtown Christchurch with friendly staff and a huge kitchen. There’s also a hostel bar, a pool table, fast Wi-Fi, laundry, movies, and comfy couches, as well as a parking lot.

If you need to get back to Queenstown, it’s a 6 hour drive from here. Alternatively, you can fly to Auckland. The flight is just over an hour and tickets can be found for as low as 65 NZD if you book in advance.  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: One Month

Again, these are just recommended itineraries — I encourage you to adapt as needed!  

Things to Remember When Road-Tripping New Zealand

To help you make the most of your road trip, please remember the following rules:

• Traffic flows on the left here (not the right, like in the US or Canada).
• You must always park your car in the direction that traffic is going (or risk a fine).
• There are plenty of pull-off points for taking photos — use them instead of stopping at a random spot along the side of the road, which can be quite dangerous given how tight the roads are here.
• Roads here are winding, so remember that it might take longer than you expect to cover a particular distance.
• As long as your current and valid driver’s license is in English, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit.
• If you’re traveling by campervan, use the CamperMate app to find nearby campsites, gas stations, and dump stations.

New Zealand is an unforgettable country, loaded with epic landscapes, friendly Kiwis, and a rich culture. Due to its remote location, visiting is usually a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most travelers. Taking a road trip is the best way to make the most of your time here, tailoring your itinerary to your own preferences and New Zealand bucket list.

Book Your Trip to New Zealand: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for specific places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in New Zealand .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on New Zealand? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on New Zealand for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Auckland travel blog — The fullest Auckland travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers

Referring to the country of Kiwi birds – New Zealand, the name mentioned by many tourists instead of the capital Wellington is Auckland – the city in the top of the world’s most livable places. Located in the southwestern Pacific, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, with the idyllic, poetic beauty of the seas and islands and along with particularly impressive geographical wonders. Traveling to Auckland is also an opportunity for you to explore 48 volcanoes sleeping quietly.

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So, is Auckland worth visiting, how to visit Auckland, what to do in Auckland and how to plan a budget trip to Auckland for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Auckland travel blog (Auckland blog) with the fullest Auckland travel guide (guide to Auckland, Auckland tourist guide, Auckland city guide, Auckland guide) from how to get to Auckland, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Auckland to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Auckland is known as the most populous and culturally diverse city of the island nation of New Zealand. Dubbed the ‘City of Sails’, Auckland has both a modern look of European architecture, while bringing the wild, classic charming features of hills, mountains, jungles and large and small beaches. Coming to Auckland, visitors can not ignore famous landmarks such as beaches with all kinds of sailing boats or strange caves created by volcanic lava on Rangitoto Island.

Auckland travel guide: Overview of Auckland

As the New Zealand’s largest city and home to more than 1.600.000 people and covering an area of 1,086 km². Auckland is considered one of the top ten livable cities with the best quality of life in the world.

Located on the North Island of New Zealand, the city is formed from ancient volcanic lava eruptions and surrounded by the Harbour of Manukau and Waitemata.

Traveling to Auckland, you can easily feel the fun and bustling atmosphere of a vibrant city in the South Pacific that can not be compared. The reason why Auckland is known as “City of sails” because the harbours here are always busy with sailing boats coming in and out.

With its geographical location located at the southeastern end of the globe, Auckland is one of the earliest cities to catch the morning light on earth. It is for this reason that Auckland is considered the city of rising sun.

Auckland travel blog: When is the best time to visit Auckland?

Inheriting the pleasant weather of temperate coastal climate, Auckland is an ideal tourist destination for all 4 seasons. Summer here is typical with warm, dry weather, the average temperature is from 18-25 degrees Celsius while winter is not too cold with temperatures ranging from 12-18 degrees Celsius and often accompanied by thunderstorms.

However, you should note that the 4 seasons in Auckland are not divided by the time normally found in other places. Auckland spring starts from September and lasts until the end of November; December to February is summer, Autumn is from March to May and June to August will be winter in Auckland.

However, the time that many tourists choose to come to Auckland is at Christmas. Not just because of the good weather but this also is the time when you can celebrate Christmas in New Zealand to experience how the Christmas atmosphere differs from that in other countries in the world. In addition, visitors coming here at this time can also participate in sports such as skiing, snowboarding!

Auckland travel guide: How to get and transportation in New Zealand?

Auckland City currently has Auckland International Airport to welcome passengers from all over the world. From Noi Bai airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat airport in Ho Chi Minh City, you can directly fly to Auckland via airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air or Cathay Pacific Airways, Jestar Asia, Qantas… The ticket price will depend on the airline you choose with average price from $550/one-way if you depart from Ho Chi Minh City.

To getting around Auckland, there are public transport such as buses, trains, bikes that are convenient for you to travel to tourist attractions.

In addition, self-driving car rental is also an option for many visitor when self-sufficient traveling in Auckland because of its convenience. The traffic system here is very developed with many beautiful roads, traffic laws are not too strict, in addition you can actively move according to your itinerary and go further from Auckland. The car rental price in Auckland is about USD20-90/day including GPS fee and insurance.

See the very detailed article of New Zealand travel guide here to learn more about type of means of transport.

Auckland travel guide: Where to go and what to do

Let us check out the destinations in Auckland that are attracting a lot of tourists around the world!

Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana

With a vast, calm, quiet sea waters, Hauraki Gulf is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. Here you can see the entire vast landscape or you also have the opportunity to participate in adventure activities such as windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking… If you like a quiet, peaceful scenery you can come here in the evenings.

Waiheke Island

Located in the east of Auckland, with many historical sites, wildlife and habitats, Waiheke Island is considered New Zealand’s national treasure, a jewel of Hauraki Gulf.

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Visiting the Auckland War Memorial Museum is an opportunity for you to learn more about the history of not only of Auckland but also of New Zealand. The museum is built in the classical style, exhibiting more than 1.2 million images and 1.5 million prototypes of natural history, military, terrestrial plants and marine life in the ocean..

Address: Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hours: 10AM–5PM Founded: 1852

SkyJump & SkyWalk at Sky Tower

A new symbol of Auckland is Sky Tower, the 12th tallest tower in the world with a height of 328m. Standing on the observation deck of the tower, you can see the panoramic view within 90 km from the tower.

If you like the thrills and want to challenge your courage, take part in games like jumping from the top of the Sky Tower or try sky walking tour.

Auckland SkyWalk & SkyJump

Address: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Height: 328 m Construction started: 1994 Hours: 10AM–8PM Cost: 85 million NZD

Great Barrier Island

A wonderful and can not miss destination on your trip to Auckland. Not only there are many pristine beaches, but also home to rare birds such as Kiwi, Northern gannets, … and along with interesting activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing…

Hobbiton Movie Set (Hobbiton Film Studio)

If you are a true fan of the movie series “The Lord of the Rings” or “The Hobbit” will surely remember the image of the fairy village appearing in this movie. To set foot in the Hobbiton studio, tourists will only take about 2 hours riding by bus. You can walk to visit this fairytale village and enjoy signature dishes at the restaurants.

Address: 501 Buckland Road, Matamata 3472, New Zealand Hours: 9AM–5PM

Auckland Botanic Gardens

As the oldest park, is known as “backflow of time” when possessing quaint beauty, gurgling waterfalls and lush green lawn, flowers, plants and trees.

Address: 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105, New Zealand Hours: 8AM–8PM

Auckland Zoo

If you are an animal lover or accompanying children, the Auckland Zoo is a great suggestion. Auckland Zoo is currently raising more than 1.400 animals of 138 different species, you will have the opportunity to encounter large species such as lions, giraffes, zebras, … and especially Kiwi birds – a symbol of New Zealand.

Address: Motions Rd, Auckland 1022, New Zealand Opened: December 17, 1922 Hours: 9:30AM–5:30PM No. of animals: 1,400+

Revealing to you one more place that you should not miss when having the opportunity to explore this Auckland city. Mount Eden is a vibrant and dynamic suburb in Auckland with the perfect combination of culture and majestic nature.

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is located in the northeastern part of Auckland with an area of ​​2,311 hectares with an amazing and fascinating volcanic landscape and more than 200 species of moss, plants and trees. Tourists when coming to Rangitoto Island are overwhelmed by the idyllic, wild and attractive beauty of Rangitoto Island!

Relax at the beaches

Coming to Auckland, you absolutely can find yourself a peaceful space, full of fun and relaxation right next to the clear blue, stretching endlessly beaches. Typically Piha beach is made up of volcanic lava in the west of North Island, which is considered a familiar destination for professional surfers.

Or the beaches on the west coast like Muriwai, Bethells, Whatipu, Anawhata are equally attractive. These are all great beaches for visitors to participate in recreational activities such as sandcastle building, fishing, boating or walking along the coast.

Bungy jumping

Auckland is the birthplace of this thrilling game, created by AJ Hackett (Address: 105 Curran Street, Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand / Hours: 9AM–3PM) , the famous Bungy jumping game. Bungy jump spot here is not the highest spot like in Queenstown but still a thrilling game you should try, first try to jump from a moderate height probably not too scary, right?

Auckland Bridge Bungy

Auckland Bridge Climb

If you’ve never climbed over the ends of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, you can try your hand at an hour and a half to climb over Auckland Bridge. You will get a great view of both the harbor and the panorama of Auckland city and the surrounding areas.

Otara Flea Market

Every Saturday, a Polynesia and Maori market is held outdoors. Here they will sell clothes, food and goods made domestically. This is also a great suggestion for an active weekend afternoon as well!

Address: Newbury Street, Manukau, Auckland 2023, New Zealand Hours: Saturday: 6AM–12PM

Wine tasting

It would be a mistake to come to Auckland without visiting Waiheke wine island located in Hauraki Gulf. Waiheke currently owns more than 30 vineyards and many large scale wineries. Besides, thanks to the suitable climate to grow world famous grapes such as Bordeaux, Sauvignon, or Chardonnay, … is the outstanding advantage of this island.

Auckland Highlights with Wine Tasting at Waiheke Island

In addition, visitors can not miss the MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology as well as SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, which is extremely interesting with real sharks swimming in front of your eyes. Moreover, parks like Albert Park, Rainbow’s End Theme Park and Monterey Park are also places you should visit during your trip.

Auckland travel blog: What and where to eat?

Like New Zealand cuisine in general, Auckland cuisine is also influenced by British cuisine. It is famous for its dairy products, desserts, berries, wine and seafood.

However, the price of food in the restaurants here is considered quite expensive, about USD 25 for a meal. For those who travel on their own way and choose to stay in homestay, a useful suggestion for you is that you can buy food at supermarkets or convenience stores to cook by yourself or ask the chef at the hostel to cook for you which will only cost about USD50/week.

In addition, fast food is also a choice for many tourists because famous fast food brands like McDonald’s or Burger King are present in Auckland.

Lamb in Auckland New Zealand is appreciated worldwide. It is also one of the top export meats thanks to its fine flavor combined with rosemary leaves and lots of the best seasonal vegetables. You will find it on the menu of the best restaurants in this country.

Fish and chips

One of the best things to enjoy while sitting on a beach in Auckland on a cool summer evening that is enjoy fish and chips in an intimate way. The fish caught are fresh fish like tarakihi and hoki are prepared and deep fried. Fish and chips are pretty much everywhere and often serve with a cup of beer.

This is a specialty of Auckland in particular and New Zealand in general. Whitebait is often battered, add a little seasoning to make it richer. Then deep-fried and served with spicy sauce or chili sauce. When enjoy you should use it with a glass of wine to make the dish more attractive.

White Chocolate Mud Cake

In Auckland, White Chocolate Mud Cake is known as a top dessert dish in luxury restaurants. With its delicious and tasty. It not only receive the love of women and children but even men are conquered.

Some good restaurants you should check out: Covo , which serves Italian food, and Mezze Bar offers great Middle Eastern cuisine. At the beginning of Queen Street, there are also very delicious Japanese and Korean restaurants, you can go to any restaurant. If you are also a sushi fan like me, do not miss the Kura Sake Bar located near the town hall.

Auckland travel guide: Where to stay?

Traveling to Auckland, there are many types of accommodation for you to choose from such as hotels, hostels, farmstay, homestay … To have as many opportunities to experience and save money as possible, you should rent a hostel, homestay or farmstay to stay while in Auckland.

Room rental rates in hostels ranging from USD20 – USD80/night depending on the room category. Farmstay or homestay has a very cheap price, only about USD10/person/night. In addition, there are also cheap hotels in Auckland, about under USD100/night. However, you should book a room in advance via booking platforms Agoda.com , Booking.com to avoid running out of rooms, especially during the peak tourist season.

In addition, when booking in Auckland, you should pay attention to the hotel location located on the city center streets such as Symonds Street, Quay Street, Beaumont Street, Hobson Street, Corner of Vincent Street … for convenience of travelling and in use public transport in the city.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $181/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• The Grand by SkyCity , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $191/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hilton Auckland , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $164/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• CityLife Auckland , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $159/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Auckland travel guide: What to pack when travel to Auckland?

As mentioned above, Auckland weather is quite pleasant and warm, so you do not need to bring too many winter clothes for your trip. Depending on the season you choose to travel to Auckland, you choose for yourself the right outfit. Also, don’t forget to bring yourself a pair of sneakers as you may need to walk a lot.

You should also bring some common medicine and dry food in case the food in Auckland is not suitable for your taste. However, absolutely do not bring fruit because New Zealand does not allow passengers entering their country to bring this.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Auckland you can refer to

• Taste of Waiheke Day Tour from Auckland
• Hobbiton Express Small Group Tour with Lunch from Auckland
• Karekare Waterfalls and Piha Beach Day Tour from Auckland
• Auckland Zoo Ticket
• Auckland Explorer Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Pass 24 or 48 Hour with Devonport ferry
• SkyTower Auckland Tickets
• Auckland War Memorial Museum Ticket
• SkyBus Auckland Airport (AKL) Express Transfer Ticket
• SheepWorld Admission Ticket
• Private Auckland Airport (AKL) Transfers for Auckland
• Shared and Private Auckland Airport (AKL) Transfers to/from Auckland CBD
• Soaring Kiwi Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass in Auckland (24 or 48 Hours)

Are you looking for more top things to do in New Zealand: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And Auckland itinerary 7 days — How to spend 7 days in Auckland perfectly for the first-timers?

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