New Zealand is a treasure chest of stunning landscapes, quirky towns, and outdoor adventures that will leave you scratching your head in disbelief. With just a week to explore, you can hit a mix of iconic spots and hidden gems that will make your Instagram followers green with envy. Here’s how to spend your week in this beautiful country, packed with nature, culture, and a dash of the unexpected.
Day 1: Arrival in Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails, where the coffee is strong and the scenery is strong enough to make you weep. After landing at Auckland Airport, grab a coffee from a local café. You’ll need the energy.
- Morning: Head to the Sky Tower. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city (don’t look down, unless you’re into that).
- Afternoon: Stroll through the Auckland Domain and visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to understand the history and culture.
- Evening: Dinner at the Viaduct Harbour. Try some fresh seafood, because if you can’t eat fish in New Zealand, what are you even doing?
Day 2: Rotorua - Geothermal wonders and culture
Get ready for a road trip. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Auckland to Rotorua, so let’s crank up the tunes. Once you arrive, the unmistakable smell of sulfur will greet you—welcome to geothermal paradise.
- Morning: Visit Te Puia to see geysers and mud pools. Don’t forget to take a selfie with a geyser erupting in the background.
- Afternoon: Experience Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village. Enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and a cultural performance that will leave you entertained.
- Evening: Relax in the Polynesian Spa. Nothing like soaking in hot mineral pools to wash away the travel fatigue.
Day 3: Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves
Today is all about hobbits and glowworms. Start early and take the drive to Hobbiton (about 1 hour from Rotorua). Bring your inner child; it’s about to get magical.
- Morning: Tour Hobbiton. The set is a stunning piece of work. You can even grab a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Because, why not?
- Afternoon: Drive to Waitomo Caves (about 1 hour). Take a guided tour to see the famous glowworms. It’s like nature’s own fairy lights show.
- Evening: Return to Rotorua. If you’re still hungry, try some local fish and chips. You can thank me later.
Day 4: Tongariro National Park - Hiking adventure
Time to put on those hiking boots. Drive to Tongariro National Park (about 2 hours from Rotorua). This place is a hiker’s dream, so don’t let a little sweat scare you away.
- Morning: Start the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a 19.4 km trek that will test your lungs and your love for nature. Bring snacks.
- Afternoon: Keep going, enjoy the views of the emerald lakes and volcanic landscapes. Remember to take breaks. You deserve it.
- Evening: Drive to Taupo for dinner. Try a local restaurant and get your fill of meat pies.
Day 5: Taupo - Nature and adventure
Wake up and embrace the beauty of Lake Taupo. The place is full of adrenaline-pumping activities. You can choose your adventure today.
- Morning: Go for a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo to see the Maori rock carvings. Or, if you’re feeling brave, try skydiving. Yes, jump out of a perfectly good airplane.
- Afternoon: Visit Huka Falls and take a short walk. The power of the falls is breathtaking.
- Evening: Chill out at a lakeside bar with a cold drink and reflect on your day. You’ve earned it.
Day 6: Wellington - Capital city vibes
Take the scenic drive to Wellington (around 4.5 hours). It’s a long drive but worth every minute. You’ll find coffee shops on nearly every corner because Wellingtonians take their coffee seriously.
- Morning: Visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum. It’s free and full of fascinating exhibits.
- Afternoon: Take the cable car to Kelburn for stunning views. Walk through the Botanic Gardens to unwind.
- Evening: Check out Cuba Street for dinner. The street is lined with funky restaurants and cafés. Enjoy some local cuisine.
Day 7: Departure and last-minute exploration
On your last day, take it easy. Depending on your flight, you can squeeze in a few more sights. If you’re still in Wellington, why not visit the Zealandia eco-sanctuary to see some unique wildlife?
- Morning: Last-minute shopping for souvenirs. You can’t leave without a Kiwi plushie, can you?
- Afternoon: Grab some lunch at a café and savor your final moments in this beautiful country.
- Evening: Head to the airport and prepare for your flight home. You’ll have stories to tell and photos to share.
New Zealand in a week is like a whirlwind romance—you’ll fall in love but leave wanting more. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure that will stay in your heart long after you’ve left. Safe travels, and remember: if you see a hobbit, say hi for me!
