We arrive in Auckland early March from Maine, USA, and have 8 days in New Zealand. On the 9th day we fly to Australia. This is probably our only trip to New Zealand, so I'm struggling. I'm sharing my draft agenda and appreciate any input or thoughts. We tend to like spending time seeing the natural landscape, wow scenery, and wildlife that make a country unique. We aren't adventurous hikers, but we do like a 1-3 mile easyish walk with views and waterfalls. We also enjoy poking around cities, especially famous ones that are quaint and inviting with pretty settings and architecture. We also love a nice small town. We like learning how people live and their culture.
Thanks very much.
Auckland - 1 day and night to hopefully recover from our flight from the US east coast.
Rotorua - 1.5 days/2 nights - Taking a Tour Driver from Auckland and stopping at Glow Worm Caves (hoping this is low key day as we may still be recovering from international flight). After drive we plan to enjoy a Hot Spring Spa before retiring. Our 1 full day: Wai-o-Tapu; Maimangu Thermal Valley, Redwoods walk in town, Te Pa Tu evening event w Maori people.
Mt Cook and Surrounding Scenic Area - 3 days/2 nights
1st Day - flying direct Rotorua to Christchurch, then Driving to Mt Cook w scenic stops;
2nd day at Mt Cook for Hooker Valley Track and Tasman Glacier Cruise;
3rd day Driving Mt Cook to Queenstown w scenic stops (Lindis Pass). I’m wondering if we should stop in Arrowtown for 1-1.5 hrs, or is our time better spent in Queenstown.
Queenstown - 2 days/3 nights - Lakeside promenade and dinner on arrival night.
1st day: Skyline Gondola and luge, Walter Peak Farm TSS Earnslaw for dinner. other options - maybe Glenorchy 1/2 day, maybe QT Gardens.
2nd day; Milford Sound Tour (drive, cruise, fly)