Itinerary Guide: 7 Days in New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful countries in the world. Many of its natural vistas have remained untouched and remote for a number of years, resulting in almost otherworldly views. This country in the South Pacific is also great to visit all year round.
There are so many great places to visit in New Zealand that planning a 7-day trip may not be enough. However, if you have only 7 days, here is a great itinerary guide for you to experience the best that the country has to offer. Remember, even a short trip can turn into a bad memory should any mishap occur. Be wise and obtain travel insurance before you go.
Day 1: Auckland
It is only fitting to start your tour in New Zealand’s largest city. Surrounded by three harbours and having 48 volcanic cones, Auckland has much to offer. First off, you must take a stroll to Mt. Eden, Auckland’s highest point, to get a stunning 360 degree view of the city. You will also appreciate Maori culture as the tour is led by a native Ngati Whatua guide. During the day, you can also take a walk to a secluded waterfall or black-sand beach at the Waitakere Ranges National Park. Discover Kitekite or Karekare Falls, and be amazed at Piha or Karekare Beach. At night, enjoy Auckland’s nightlife at the Wynyard Quarter or the Britomart.
Day 2: Matamata and Rotorua
The towns of Matamata and Rotorua are located just south of Auckland. Matamata’s most famous attraction is the Hobbiton movie set, which is definitely worth a visit. Learn more about the Maori culture by visiting villages like Te Puia and Tamaki village, and enjoy geothermal steam and mud pools in the next town, Rotorua.
Day 3: Wai-O-Tapu
Wai-O-Tapu is located south of Rotorua, along the Thermal Explorer Highway towards Taupo. It is consider a Thermal Wonderland, with active volcanic activities, geysers, boiling mud, and other great geothermal landscapes.
Day 4: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Starting at the town of Taupo, which is on the edge of the largest lake in Australia and the Pacific regions, Lake Taupo, you can reach Tongariro Alpine Crossing in an hour. Enjoy an 8-hour hike across a volcanic landscape of lava flows, steam vents, and green lakes. The Tokaanu thermal pool in the small village near the southern end of Lake Taupo is the perfect way to end your day.
Day 5: Christchurch
By Day 5, you are ready to leave the North Island and head on over to New Zealand’s South Island. From Taupo Airport, it is a 3 hour flight to Christchurch, the country’s second largest city. Spend a day in Christchurch and enjoy its English-style parks. Visit the Botanical Gardens, Mona Vale, and the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.
Day 6: Mt. Cook and Queenstown
Mt. Cook National Park is a few hours’ drive from Christchurch city proper, and once you get there, you will see spectacular views which you can enjoy through alpine walks, scenic flights, or glacier explorer trips. Just 280 kilometres away is Queenstown, better known as the Adventure Capital of the World. Enjoy a veritable list of activities and sights – Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, Lake Wanaka, Skippers Canyon, and many more!
Day 7: Te Anau
186 kilometres north of Queenstown is Te Anau, which is the entryway to a magnificent wilderness park – the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy Milford Sound and the Te Ana-au Caves, with its glow worm grotto.
From Te Anau airport, the flight is almost 3 hours to Christchurch. You can board your international flight back home from Christchurch.
If you are going on a holiday to New Zealand with you and your loved ones, it is advisable to get a single trip travel insurance which can cover you and the rest of your family for a maximum period of up to 120 days. Just remember to pre-book your flights and accommodations before taking out the travel insurance. Most travel insurance policies provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, cancellation, and lost or stolen valuables.