The dream trip to New Zealand! One of the most beautiful countries in the world I have visited and I am sure most people will agree with me as well.
Lakes, trees, snowy mountains, outdoor sports and delicious food, the country has everything and especially the ever so friendly people, the coffee, the cheese. Ah! Take me back….
I went on this trip with my lovely Aunty!
I went from Shanghai and she came from San Francisco
We both landed at Auckland airport an hour apart from each other. We both took Air New Zealand. It was almost a 12 hour flight, very comfortable, the food was great, service was impeccable.
From Auckland airport we took a flight to Christchurch
From Christchurch we rented a car and started our South Island journey!
First stop: Akaroa
45 miles away from Christchurch, Akaroa is small historic town colonized by British and French in the 18th century. We stayed in a motel called Criterion which was overlooking the Akaroa harbor. It’s a peaceful place if you want to relax and unwind. We stayed there for one day.
Second stop: Arthur pass
Nestled amongst the southern pass, we drove through Arthur pass. We stopped at Arthurs Pass National park, enjoyed a cuppa, soaked in the beauty of the place and continued our journey.
Third stop: Hokitika
We stayed at the Beach Front motel. It’s a cute little town with some quirky cafes and a beach. We walked along the beach collecting shells and pebbles, explored the town, and had some amazing dinner in a small Indian restaurant.
Fourth stop: Fox Glacier
From Hokitika we drove to Fox Glacier where we did the Glacier Hike! It was wonderful, the most incredible experience of my life. I was on top of a Glacier! After the hike we walked along Lake Matheson. You can see the reflection of the Glacier in the lake.
Fifth stop: Queenstown
From Fox glacier we then continued our journey to Queenstown. The drive was absolutely stunning! On the way we stopped at Makarora and Lake Huawei.
In Queenstown,we stayed at the Amity Lodge hotel, explored the town and had dinner at Fergburger! You definitely need to have a meal there.
The next day we drove to Glenorchy and saw where Lord of the rings was shot.
Sixth stop: Milford Sound
After Queenstown, we took a cruise through Milford Sound. The views were breathtaking, surrounded by glaciers, it was just serene. If you are lucky enough you should be able to see the Fiodland crusted penguin and sea gulls just casually taking a nap on the rocks.
Seventh stop: Curio Bay
After discovering the pristine beauty of Milford sound we drove towards curio bay to especially see the yellow-eyed penguins. Located down under, deep south, you can see yellow-eyed penguins on the bay heading towards their nests after their fishing trip.
From Curio Bay we continued our South island journey and went to Oamaru to view Blue penguins.
Last stop, Mount Cook, Aaroki National park. The perfect end to the trip!
Curio Bay
After discovering the pristine beauty of Milford sound we drive towards curio bay to explore yellow-eyed penguins. Located down under, deep south, you can see yellow-eyed penguins on the bay heading towards their nests after their fishing trip.
From Curio Bay we continued our South island journey and went to Oamaru to view Blue penguins
Last stop, Mount Cook, Aaroki National park. The perfect end to the trip
