New Zealand itinerary: where to go and what to see in 9 days
Experienced tourists can sometimes be surprised by little, but the New Zealand travel itinerary will not leave anyone indifferent. Tourists are advised to discover some of the most popular family attractions in New Zealand with this nine-day itinerary.
Start your trip in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, which has a lot to offer. Viaduct Harbour is a lively waterfront village that's perfect for leisurely strolls; it's also home to a thriving restaurant district where your family can enjoy a meal overlooking the sea, writes Femina.
Tourists are offered a lot of entertainment - from the seahorse sanctuary to the famous Shark Tunnel at the Kelly Tarlton Aquarium, home to thousands of marine animals of hundreds of species. Your children can explore the unique underwater world full of discoveries and get hands-on experience at Tidal Touch Pools.
Cosmopolitan Auckland is also known for its diverse cuisine. If you like fresh, seasonal ingredients, take a tour with The Big Foody and get acquainted with Auckland's gastronomy. Tourists are recommended to visit the Akarana restaurant in Okahu Bay. Accommodation options: Britomart Hotel.
On the second day in the morning, take the Northern Explorer train to Hamilton. The Great Journeys Scenic Plus Experience - includes an exclusive open-air observation car and a gourmet restaurant. Bring your campervan or rent a car in Hamilton.
In the afternoon, wander through the Hamilton Gardens and learn about the history of the gardens at one of the region's most visited attractions. Take a fantastic journey through the landscapes, or visit the Garden of Eden Collection to discover different unique gardens.
Restaurant recommendations: Rüdi's Bakehouse, Riverbank Lane; Hayes Common, Victoria Street. Accommodation options: Cambridge TOP 10 Holiday Park (campervan option), Distinction Hamilton Hotel.
The next day, book a day trip to the Hobbiton Cinema. Marvel at the meticulously recreated hobbit holes and iconic settings that come to life on the tour. To complete your magical adventure, indulge in a Hobbit feast for lunch and savor the flavors of Middle Earth.
In the afternoon, return to Hamilton and explore Made, the city's new eclectic restaurant district modeled after Christchurch's River Market. With local retailers, makers and artisans, it's a lively place for a variety of food. Accommodation options: Cambridge TOP 10 Holiday Park (campervan option), Distinction Hamilton Hotel.
The next day, book a day trip to see the flickering glow worms in Waitomo. The trip will culminate in a boat ride that will allow you to drift under thousands of shimmering worms, creating a magical and unforgettable experience.
Return to Hamilton in the afternoon and visit Cornerstone Alpacas to meet their friendly herd of alpacas. If you visit in the spring, you may even be able to meet baby alpacas with their families. Food recommendations: Banh Mi Caphe, Victoria Street (Vietnamese), Madame Vu (Asian style). Accommodation options : Hamilton City Holiday Park or Distinction Hamilton Hotel.
The next day, transfer to Rotorua where you will spend two days. The scenic drive will cover a distance of 105 kilometers in about an hour and 21 minutes. Visit Te Puia, New Zealand's geothermal wonderland. Here, you and your family will discover a breathtaking landscape with spectacular geysers, boiling mud pools and the craftsmanship of traditional Maori carvers and weavers at national schools.
Dining: Artisan Cafe; Patrick's Boutique Bakery (the most awarded pie maker in New Zealand). Accommodation options: Holdens Bay Holiday Park (campervan option); Ramada Resort by Wyndham Rotorua Marama.
Spend the next morning on a superb Canopy Tour with Rotorua Canopy Tours, an exceptional 3.5-hour adventure through prehistoric local forests that harmoniously combines fun, education and conservation. In the afternoon, you'll head to Skyline Rotorua for family-friendly adventures such as gravity-defying toboggan rides (above), the thrilling Zoom Zipline and Skyswing rides.
Dining recommendations: Stratosfare restaurant; Fat Dog cafe; River's Catch (traditional kiwi dishes). Accommodation options: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park; Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours.
The next day, a three-hour drive will take you to Napier. Go hiking, cycling or driving to the legendary Te Mata Peak. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Te Mata Hill, where breathtaking views open up in every direction. This picturesque landscape holds a fascinating history of centuries past. Or discover Napier's rich heritage on a vintage car tour (above) with the Art Deco Trust, where you'll explore the city's fascinating Art Deco architecture and delve into its fascinating history.
Food recommendations: bistronomy; Napier City Farmers Market on Saturdays. Accommodation options: Kennedy Park Resort Napier (campervan option); Te Mania Retreat.
The road from Napier to Wellington is approximately 325 kilometers, which is usually covered in just over four hours. Enjoy a leisurely day by visiting Hannah's Laneway in the center of Wellington. This can be one of the most delicious streets in the world where you can enjoy local flavors and grab unique souvenirs. This foodie paradise is home to famous establishments such as Leeds St Bakery, Wellington Chocolate Factory, Shepherd and Golding's Free Dive.
You can also ride the iconic bright red Wellington Cable Car from the terminal in the center of the Lambton Quay shopping district to the vantage point for panoramic views of the city. You can also spend time at the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand, where you can immerse yourself in the country's rich cultural experience.
Food recommendations: Mr. Go's, Eva Street (modern Asian); Chocolate Fish Cafe (seafood). Accommodation options: Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park & Motels (campervan option); Novotel Wellington.
The next day, take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop. For fans of Middle-earth, a visit to the Lord of the Rings locations is a must. Immerse yourself in the magic and craftsmanship that brought these iconic films to life.
In the afternoon, visit the Zeeland Nature Reserve. Get to know the three-eyed prehistoric reptile and the native bird of New Zealand, the kiwi. Nutrition recommendations: The Botanist (vegan and vegetarian); food trucks at Harborside Market on Sundays. Accommodation options: Top 10 parks and motels in Wellington; Novotel Wellington.
Finally, return to Auckland on a domestic flight to catch your international flight home. At the same time, tourists are advised to download the CamperMate app or the Rankers app with information about campgrounds, gas stations and supermarkets before traveling. Make sure you plan carefully, fill your tank, and stock up on the essentials for a smooth trip.
According to TravelWise, New Zealand is on the list of safe places to travel alone.