Exploring the Wonders of New Zealand: A Journey Through Middle-earth (Part 2)
My New Zealand Itinerary
Here's a glimpse into my adventure across the stunning landscapes of New Zealand:
- Day 1: Arrival in Auckland
- Day 2: Discovering Auckland
- Auckland Central Business District (CBD)
- Mount Eden
- Viaduct Harbour
- Day 3: More Auckland Adventures
- Devonport (Mount Victoria)
- Bastion Point
- Auckland War Memorial Museum
- Day 4: Auckland to New Plymouth (approx. 450km)
- Blue Spring (Putaruru)
- Huka Falls (Taupo)
- New Plymouth
- Day 5: New Plymouth to Auckland (approx. 500km)
- Poukai Tarn Trekking
- Three Sister Rocks
- Back to Auckland
- Day 6: Auckland to Queenstown (via Bay)
- Queenstown
- Glenorchy (approx. 50km)
- Day 7: Queenstown to Wanaka
- Queenstown
- Arrowtown
- Wanaka (approx. 100km)
- Day 8: Wanaka's Iconic Views
- Hiking Roy Peak
- That Wanaka Tree
- Day 9: Wanaka to Twizel (approx. 250km)
- Peter's Look Out
- Lake Pukaki
- Glentanner Look Out
- Tasman Glacier
- Salmon Alpine Shop
- Day 10: Exploring Twizel (approx. 150km)
- Hiking Sealy Tarns View
- Section 1 of Hooker Valley Track
- Day 11: Twizel to Lake Tekapo (approx. 120km)
- Lake Rutaniwha
- Lake Tekapo
- Lake Alexandrina
- Fairlie Town
- Day 12: Twizel to Dunedin (approx. 300km)
- Dunedin
- Allan's Beach
- Sandfly Bay
- University of Otago
- Day 13: Dunedin to Queenstown, then Auckland (Late Arrival, approx. 400km)
- Dunedin CBD
- Kawarau Gorge
- Queenstown
- Auckland
- Day 14: Departure from New Zealand
In total, we covered approximately 4000km across both islands. This kind of journey requires at least two drivers in your group to share the driving, especially on those long stretches!
Important Things to Know About New Zealand
- The Kiwi accent can be quite unique and might take some getting used to.
- The weather is incredibly changeable. Sunshine can quickly turn into rain, so check the NZ Metservice for weather updates.
- Public toilets are readily available throughout both islands. They are free, clean, and some even play music! Usage time is generally around 10-15 minutes.
- Airport security in New Zealand doesn't typically require you to remove your shoes or belt. Laptops don't need to be taken out either. However, liquids in bottles must have the volume clearly marked or they might be confiscated.
- New Zealanders are generally polite and friendly. Their style is usually casual and relaxed.
- They have a strong respect for nature, and I rarely saw any litter. You'll often see signs encouraging people to protect the environment.
- New Zealand uses both cash and card payments. However, for car rentals, hotels, or Airbnb, card payments are often preferred. A 2% card processing fee might apply, along with currency conversion charges.
- New Zealand's Customs Border is very strict and thoroughly checks all goods brought into the country. You must complete the NZ Declaration form on the NZTD App or upon arrival. Meat, honey, grains, seeds, plants, and seeds are generally prohibited. Be sure to check what you can and cannot bring. Most commercially packaged items with clear labeling, such as instant noodles, pastries, powdered milk, and over-the-counter medication, are usually allowed but must be declared and should not exceed a 30-day supply.
- Air New Zealand offers free WiFi on all flights, enough for messaging, Facebook, and basic email.
Navigating New Zealand: Public Transport
One challenge for solo travelers is the limited public transport options, especially when venturing outside major cities. As of April 2025, bus and train routes connecting tourist destinations are scarce, especially in the Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
New Zealand's rugged terrain, remote areas with sparse populations, and low overall population contribute to this limitation. Here's a breakdown by location:
Auckland
Auckland is undergoing significant rail upgrades from early 2025 through 2026, causing frequent service disruptions. Stay updated on Auckland Transport's website.
While it's the North Island's largest city (though not the capital), Auckland has a limited rail network and no metro system. Even getting from Auckland Airport to the CBD requires a bus transfer to the nearest train station, Puhinui.
During my Easter visit, all train lines were closed for maintenance. Public transport options in Auckland include:
- Buses: Widely available in the city center with clear stops and real-time updates.
- Ferries: Connect to islands in the Auckland Harbour, like Devonport, with easy-to-navigate terminals.
- Trains: Three lines (red, yellow, and blue) service various Auckland regions. A new line is under construction for 2026.
Payment options for trains and buses in Auckland:
- Visa/Mastercard Debit or Credit
- ATHop Card
- Single Trip Tickets
Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at ferry terminals and train stations. The ATHop card is the most convenient, similar to transit cards in other cities. Purchase a card for $5 and load it with your desired amount.
Auckland public transport uses a 7-Day Cap. If you spend $50 on Ferry/Bus/Train travel using your ATHop card within 7 days, you won't be charged further until midnight on the eighth day from your first tap.
Note: You can get a refund on your ATHop card balance, but the card fee is non-refundable. Load only what you need.
I primarily used buses and ferries within Auckland for their convenience. Some double-decker buses offer great views – the bus to Mount Eden is a prime example.
I strongly advise against renting a car within Queenstown and Auckland due to limited parking. Explore Auckland first, then rent a car later.
Queenstown
Unlike Auckland, Queenstown offers the Bee Card for local bus and ferry travel around Lake Whakatipu.
For other destinations in New Zealand, consider trains on routes like Auckland-Wellington or Christchurch-Dunedin, or Intercity, a bus service connecting most places nationwide, typically with 1-2 daily departures.
Renting a Car in New Zealand
If you or someone in your group can drive, renting a car is highly recommended to fully experience New Zealand's beauty. A temporary international driver's license (valid for 3-6 months) is accepted. Remember to bring your original license for verification. I rented from Go Rental and Omega Rental, and here's my experience:
Go Rental
You can download the Go Rental app to book a car. The app requires driver's license information, so the renter must be a designated driver.
I rented from Go Rental in Auckland. Their city office on Beach Road is open from 8 AM to 4:45 PM. If your return flight is after 4:45 PM, consider returning the car at Auckland Airport.
For a group of four with three medium-sized suitcases, two carry-ons, and small bags, we rented a Mitsubishi Outlander. It had two foldable seats in the back for extra luggage space, which was just enough. The car was smooth, averaging 8 liters/100km, and trouble-free throughout our North Island adventure.
Payment is made by credit card; debit card payments incur a 2% fee. The renter should handle payment for easy tracking. Fines or car issues will be charged to the renter's card. Take photos of the car's condition before and after rental to avoid unwarranted charges. Consider purchasing car insurance on the Go Rental app – the highest level is $35 NZD/day.
Omega Rentals
I had a slightly better experience with Omega Rentals. Their only drawback is the lack of an office at Queenstown Airport, requiring a 1km transfer, but they offer airport pick-up and drop-off services.
Their prices are comparable to Go Rental, but insurance is cheaper, with the highest level (no excess) at only $20/day. The process was quick, and the staff was courteous.
Car return is at Queenstown Airport, with a shuttle to the terminal. We rented a Toyota Highlander, a 7-seater that comfortably fit our luggage. While a bit large, the reverse camera was helpful for parking.
Fuel: Both rentals required 91 octane fuel, the cheapest option in New Zealand. However, fuel prices are higher than in Australia, costing us around $700 NZD for 4000km. Remember to refuel before returning the car (regardless of the rental company). Current (April 2025) fuel prices are around $2.55-$2.8 per liter. Prices vary by station, with Caltex and BP often being the cheapest, along with Pak'n Save.
