Our last “big stop” will be New Zealand. It’s another place that is deceptive in size, and throws a curve by being two islands largely connected by ferry.
We will fly from Sydney to Christchurch on the south island – about a three hour flight. From there it’s a rental car drive over to Greymouth on the west coast, which is the gateway to glacier country. Down Highway 6 just south of Greymouth, two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers are the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.
Fox Glacier
We will continue to Queenstown, which is a base for sidetrips to Fijordland, including Milford Sound, an iconic NZ destination. This is another area to simply enjoy the scenic wonders that are such a draw there.
Milford Sound
Queenstown
We will fly from Queenstown to Wellington, the nation’s capital, on the North Island; must faster and less expensive than fiddling with the ferry. We will again drive to Auckland via Taupo and Mount Maunganui. Taupo is the center of NZ’s volcanic region, with hot springs and other thermal attractions. It is also the home of the Maori heritage center. Mount Maunganui a relaxed beach town on the Bay of Plenty.
Taupo Lake
Mount Maunganui
And if anyone has any thoughts or “better ideas” about all or any of this itinerary, including “must see” suggestions, feel free to tell us. We’re always open to better ideas.
Our final stop is Auckland. From there we will fly back to the USA…Los Angeles!
Auckland
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