Our adventure to New Zealand began on December 10th, departing Brisbane for Auckland. Despite a four-hour flight delay, we arrived in the City of Sails by late afternoon. After picking up our rental car, we checked into Hotel Britomart, a stylish urban retreat just minutes from the harbour.

The next day, we spent quality time with family friends, exploring Auckland and enjoying lunch at Dulcie in the picturesque seaside suburb of Devonport. Dinner that evening was at Amano, a delightful Italian eatery offering exceptional food and a cosy ambience.

From Auckland to Christchurch

On December 12th, we flew to Christchurch, where we stayed at the elegant George on the Park. After an early check-in, we explored the city on foot, visiting the impressive Christchurch Art Gallery and strolling through Oxford Terrace and the Riverside Markets, a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and bars along the Avon River. You do see the difference between ‘old and new’ where there have been new buildings in the CBD built after the earthquake in 2011…quite sobering to be honest. That evening, we savoured modern Asian cuisine at King of Snake, dining at the bar for an intimate experience.

Scenic Train Journeys and Glacial Adventures

The following morning, we embarked on the TranzAlpine Train, a breathtaking journey from the South Island’s east to west coast. Travelling in Scenic Plus class elevated the experience with exclusive dining and panoramic views. The five-hour trip delivered mesmerising landscapes and gourmet meals, making it a highlight of our journey.

In Greymouth, we picked up a rental car for a 10-day road trip. First stop: Franz Josef. Unfortunately, rain cancelled our planned glacier Heli-flight, so we adjusted our itinerary, heading to Lake Wanaka a day early. The serendipitous decision led us to Moorings, where the hospitality of a resident chef and poet added charm to our stay. Wanaka's serene beauty captivated us, and we highly recommend staying at least two nights.

Historic Towns and Queenstown Charm

Our drive to Queenstown included stops in Cromwell and Clyde, both rich with history and charm. In Queenstown, Hotel St Moritz became our base, with the ever energetic and helpful concierge Francisco offering excellent recommendations for activities and dining.

Town of Cromwell

Highlights included hiking at Bob’s Cove and Glenorchy, riding the iconic Skyline Gondola (the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere!), taking a few rides on the thrilling Luge (once is never enough!), winery visits, and an afternoon cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw. Not to mention swimming in Lake Wakatipu at 12 degrees!). Dining at spots like Soda, Botswana Butchery, and The Bunker rounded out our culinary experiences.

Bob's Cove

The view from Bob’s Cove hike

Gibbston Valley Winery

Wine Tasting

Queenstown taken from Lake Whakatipu

Te Anau, Milford Sound, and the Key Summit Hike

The Key Summit Hike, accessed via the Routeburn Track, was an unforgettable experience, with sweeping alpine views at 900 meters above sea level. If you only do one hike, this is the one to do! After a restful night in Te Anau (despite a 3 a.m. fire alarm!), we continued to Milford Sound for an overnight cruise aboard the Fiordland Jewel. The cruise offered stunning scenery, kayaking, and sightings of seals and waterfalls, enhanced by the rain that added to the dramatic landscape.

The start of the Key Summit hike

The view when on the Key Summit hike

Key Summit Track

Milford Sound

The spa on the Fiordland Jewell when in Milford Sound

Milford Sound Waterfalls

Wrapping Up in Style

Our final days were spent in Queenstown, shopping for essentials (and extra luggage!) at Five Mile Shopping Precinct and enjoying relaxed dining at Sundays, an outdoor venue with live music and Sangria! For our last evening, we stayed at The Rees Hotel and indulged in Thai cuisine, a perfect ending to our New Zealand journey.

Reflections

In total, we drove over 1,500 kilometres across New Zealand’s pristine roads, marvelling at landscapes that rival and exceed the Great Ocean Road and Tasmania’s rugged beauty. From scenic train rides to hikes, boutique hotels, and a memorable cruise, this trip delivered a rich blend of adventure and relaxation.

New Zealand, with its breathtaking scenery, diverse experiences, and warm hospitality, left us eager to return—perhaps next time under a blanket of snow.

A special thanks to the team at National Travel for curating such a seamless and unforgettable itinerary. If you’re dreaming of your own New Zealand adventure, we’d be delighted to help bring it to life!