Road Trip to New Zealand, 25 January – 09 February 2025
Lake Rotorua
This picturesque body of water, the second largest in the region, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike
This picturesque body of water, the second largest in the region, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its shimmering surface, spanning 80 square kilometers, is a popular spot for a variety of water sports, including sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The lake's tranquil waters are home to an array of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers. The surrounding landscape, dotted with geothermal hot spots, adds a unique charm to the area, creating a surreal backdrop for the aquatic activities.
The lake's history is steeped in Maori legend. According to local lore, the lake was formed when the beautiful maiden, Hinemoa, swam across its waters to be with her lover, Tutanekai. This romantic tale adds a layer of mystique to the lake, making it a place of cultural significance for the local Maori community.
The lake's shores are dotted with a variety of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, catering to a wide range of visitors. The nearby town offers a plethora of dining options, where visitors can sample local delicacies. The lake's proximity to the town also means that visitors have easy access to a range of amenities and attractions.
The lake's geothermal activity is another highlight. The lake's floor is dotted with geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, creating a unique underwater landscape. This geothermal activity also heats the lake's waters, making it a popular spot for year-round swimming. The lake's geothermal features are a testament to the region's volcanic history, adding an element of intrigue to this natural wonder.
The lake's surrounding landscape is equally impressive. The lush, green hills that encircle the lake are crisscrossed with walking trails, offering stunning views of the lake and beyond. These trails are a haven for hikers and bird watchers, with a variety of native bird species calling the area home. The lake's natural beauty, combined with its rich history and geothermal activity, make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the region.
The lake's history is steeped in Maori legend. According to local lore, the lake was formed when the beautiful maiden, Hinemoa, swam across its waters to be with her lover, Tutanekai. This romantic tale adds a layer of mystique to the lake, making it a place of cultural significance for the local Maori community.
The lake's shores are dotted with a variety of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, catering to a wide range of visitors. The nearby town offers a plethora of dining options, where visitors can sample local delicacies. The lake's proximity to the town also means that visitors have easy access to a range of amenities and attractions.
The lake's geothermal activity is another highlight. The lake's floor is dotted with geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, creating a unique underwater landscape. This geothermal activity also heats the lake's waters, making it a popular spot for year-round swimming. The lake's geothermal features are a testament to the region's volcanic history, adding an element of intrigue to this natural wonder.
The lake's surrounding landscape is equally impressive. The lush, green hills that encircle the lake are crisscrossed with walking trails, offering stunning views of the lake and beyond. These trails are a haven for hikers and bird watchers, with a variety of native bird species calling the area home. The lake's natural beauty, combined with its rich history and geothermal activity, make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the region.
Auckland
Known for its stunning harbours, it's a place where the urban environment perfectly blends with the natural beauty. The cityscape is a mix of high-rise build...
Queenstown
Known as the Mecca of outdoor leisure activities, this small town of 16,000 people offers over 220 different activities, including bungy jumping. It's nestle...
Fiordland National Park
This expansive reserve, one of the largest in the country, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It is a place where towering peaks mee...
Te Anau
Experience a thrilling jet boat ride across the River Shotover in Fiordland National Park. This high-adrenaline activity lasts about 3 hours, offering unmatc...
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
The park forms part of the Te Wahipounamu region, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Milford Sound
Located in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu region, this area is rich in waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and mountains, filled with fjords. It boasts lush vegetati...
Pukaki
It's a village next to a lake of the same name, where a hotel is situated. It's a 5 1/2 hour journey, covering 358 km.
Castle Hill Park
Located on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, this area is known for its karst rocks and is historically significant for bouldering with nearly 6,000 cli...
Lake Tekapo
Known for its striking turquoise hue, the lake's color is a result of finely ground rock particles, known as rock flour, carried into the lake by the melting...
Paroa
Located on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, it's a small seaside village known for its hotel offering double rooms with bathrooms.
Pancake Rocks
A rocky shore of eroded limestone cliffs, underground caverns and strange formations. High tide compresses waves in the caves, creating natural fountains.
Cape Foulwind
This scenic spot on New Zealand's west coast offers a walking path with various stops to observe seals breeding.
Abel Tasman National Park
It's the smallest National Park in New Zealand, situated on the northern side of the South Island.
Motueka
The seaside village is a perfect overnight stop, offering accommodation at a 3-star garden motel. The motel provides 2-bedroom apartments equipped with a bat...
Wellington
The capital of the North Island is reached by a 4-hour ferry crossing from Picton port. The journey features impressive landscapes and turquoise waters.
Picton
A port town known for its ferry services to the North Island and the capital, Wellington. The ferry journey across the strait takes about 4 hours.
Te Papa Museum
Explore the rich history of New Zealand, captured in wonderful snapshots at a renowned cultural institution in Wellington.
Tongariro National Park
Lake Taupo
Situated on the south side of the country's largest lake, formed in a supervolcano crater, is the village of Turangi. It's a gateway to the spectacular Tonga...
Tongariro
Experience a full-day hike through a unique triple volcanic complex, passing through Soda Springs, the Devil's Ladder, and the rim of Red Crater. Weather per...
Wai-O-Tapu
In the heart of the Pacific, there exists a geothermal wonderland, a testament to the Earth's raw power and beauty.
Lake Rotorua
This picturesque body of water, the second largest in the region, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike
Pohutu Geyser
In the heart of the Pacific, there lies a natural wonder that has been a source of fascination for centuries
Hell's Gate Geothermal Field
The area is renowned for its unique geothermal features, including hot springs, mud pools, and steam vents. The landscape is a stark contrast to the lush gre...
Hobbiton
This enchanting location, a sprawling 12-acre landscape, is a living, breathing tribute to a beloved literary world. It is a place where visitors can step in...
Waitomo Cave
Known for the glowing fireflies Arachnocampa luminosa, endemic to New Zealand, it offers an impressive spectacle with live lights. Explore it by boat.