1500 Miles of Pure Adventure : 10 day guide to New Zealand

Swetha Huliyar
Dec 26, 2024
4 min read

New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and adventurous destinations in the world. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a relaxed, laid-back culture. The South Island, in particular, is a visual masterpiece. Think postcard-perfect landscapes with crystal-clear lakes nestled beneath towering mountain ranges, lush green meadows dotted with grazing sheep and the kind of tranquility that makes time seem to slow down. This region is a haven for nature lovers, offering some of the most breathtaking drives and hikes you'll ever experience.

Need to Know

Currency : New Zealand Dollar (NZD$)

Transportation: Rent a car. Only way to explore this country to its fullest!

Best time to visit: New Zealand can be a great destination any time of year. December through February, (which is summer since the country is below the equator), is great for outdoor adventuring, lounging on the beach and overall warm weather. For snow and skiing / snowboarding, June through August is ideal. Still, the shoulder seasons — March through May and September through November — are not to be overlooked. Expect fewer crowds and mild temperatures during these periods.

Ideal length of stay: I highly recommend spending a minimum of 10-14 days.

Day 1: Arrive to Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is a vibrant gateway to the country's North Island. You’ll likely find the most convenient and cost-effective flights to Auckland, with Air New Zealand offering nonstop service from several major US cities, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. Upon arrival, you’ll notice that Auckland has a unique vibe — a mix of the urban energy of San Francisco and the laid-back, nature-loving spirit of Seattle.

Auckland’s harbor is one of the most iconic features of the city, and it's worth taking some time to explore its stunning coastline, whether by ferry or on foot. The city is also home to a thriving culinary scene, with an abundance of cafes, restaurants and food markets offering fresh local produce and international flavors.

Restaurants to check out:

Cassia: Offers a sophisticated spin on Indian cuisine. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking bold flavors in an elegant setting.

Day 2: Explore Rotorua

Drive down to Rotorua, where you'll immerse yourself in a geothermal wonderland filled with bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers and rich Māori culture. While Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal wonders, it’s also a hub for adrenaline-pumping adventures, such as zip-lining, mountain biking and unwinding in natural hot springs. It's the perfect mix of thrill, relaxation and cultural discovery. One of our favorite experiences was Zorbing — rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball, which was as exhilarating as it sounds!

Day 3: Christchurch

Fly down to Christchurch and spend a day or two here. Following the 2011 earthquake, Christchurch has reinvented itself, with creative urban spaces, cutting-edge architecture and a thriving arts scene. It's the largest city in the south island. Highlights include the iconic Botanic Gardens, the eclectic street art of the Restart Mall and a growing food and wine culture.

Restaurant to check out:

C1 Espresso - Creative comfort food with a twist.

Day 4: Take the TranzAlpine train

Embark on a five hour scenic ride on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Franz Josef Glacier. One of the most spectacular rail routes in the world, offering breathtaking views at every turn. As you depart Christchurch, the train travels through the flat, golden plains of Canterbury before ascending into the rugged Southern Alps. One of the highlights of this scenic journey is the open-air viewing car. Passengers can step out and capture photos of the stunning landscape, including towering mountains, lush forests and crystal-clear rivers. As you cross the iconic Arthurs Pass, dramatic alpine scenery unfolds, offering unbeatable photo opportunities.

Day 5: Explore Franz Josef & Drive to Queenstown

Spend a day at Franz Josef Glacier and explore this stunning natural wonder up close. You can embark on a scenic hike to get a closer look at the glacier, or opt for a thrilling helicopter ride that lands you right on top of the ice. You’ll feel the magic of this majestic landscape beneath your feet.

Then, buckle up for one of the world’s most scenic drives from Franz Josef to Queenstown. As you wind your way through the countryside, it’s like driving through a living postcard — mountains towering above crystal-clear lakes. Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawei are simply breathtaking. Their beauty beyond words and something you’ll have to see to truly appreciate.

Day 6: Explore Queenstown - Adventure Capital of the World

Arrive in Queenstown, often known as the "Adventure Capital of the World." This stunning town, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by mountains, offers breathtaking scenery. Go ahead and try an adventure sport or two! You can experience bungee jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. You can also try paragliding, or take a thrilling Shotover Jet ride, which, frankly, is even more exciting than bungee jumping. For extreme thrill-seekers, the Nevis Swing is another adrenaline-pumping option. If adventure sports aren't your thing, you can soak in the laid-back atmosphere of Queenstown, enjoy its vibrant food scene, go wine tasting or relax in its charming cafes and cozy bars.

Restaurant to check out:

Fergburger: famous burger joint.

Day 7: Day trip to Milford Sound

Milford Sound is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, a breathtaking fjord located in Fiordland National Park. The best way to enjoy this beauty is to take a boat ride and soak in the dramatic scenery of mountains and cascading waterfalls. The drive to Milford Sound is quite scenic as well, with signs you can't miss warning you to fill up your tank as you approach the last gas station before entering Fiordland!

Day 8: Plan a trip to Mount Cook

Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest peak, is a breathtaking sight in the heart of the Southern Alps. One of the best ways to experience its beauty is by hiking the Hooker Valley Track. You’ll be surrounded by alpine scenery and close-up views of glaciers and Mount Cook itself. After your hike, unwind at the iconic Hermitage Hotel, where you can relax with a glass of wine while taking in the magnificent view of the mountain.

Day 10: Farewell