Itinerary experts, please help w/ NZ plan!
Oct 6th, 2005, 06:11 AM
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Itinerary experts, please help w/ NZ plan!
So after spending most of the last 2 days on this website and other NZ sites, I am beginning to get an idea of what we want to do/see but are not quite sure how to fit it all in. I do still have some books on the way that I need to read through to make more specific selections, but need a rough draft to get started.
First of all, we are a 37 and a 44 year old going in Feb 2006. We will have 13 nights. We would like to concentrate on the South Island, but will be flying into and out of Auckland (had to do this because we're using airline miles to fly business class from Boston...very excited about that and figured it was worth the time getting to the SI).
We are thrilled about the scenery (fiords, lakes, mountains, volcanoes---not very into beaches), would love to see wildlife like penguins,seals,albatross,dolphins. We love day hikes but just don't think we would want to do the whole Milford Track or similar, just too much time. We want to get in some adventures like zorbing, jet boating, possibly bungy jumping (really want to bungy jump so bad but not sure if I'll be able to go thru with it
)
We enjoy exploring small quaint towns as well as bigger cities. (The fact that some people say that Queenstown is too touristy does not deter us)
Tops on our list is Fiordland...I'm almost positive that we would like to do an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound and also a day cruise on Milford.
The glaciers sound great, but was wondering if it is similar to an experience we had in Alaska (we took a helicopter and landed on Mendenhall glacier)
Arthur's Pass, Pancake Rocks, Mt. Cook all sound great.
As far as towns, I can't decide if going to both Christchurch and Dunedin can or should be squeezed in.
Kayaking in Abel Tasman also sounds wonderful.
When we get to Auckland, we can't decide if we should stay put after our 30-something hour journey for a day or two, or if we should book a flight that same day to CC to get all the flights over with and be on the south island right away.
We're not ruling out seeing some of the North Island (like Rotorua, which is one of the only places I think you can zorb) but can't decide if it would better to spend the whole 13 nights on the South.
Not sure what to do if we spent the first 2 nights on the North, and what would we be able to fit in in 11 nights on the South?
We are thinking about doing the camper van thing, but would want to pick it up in either Queenstown or CC. Still haven't decided if we should just rent a car. But I think to save time we would fly from either Auckland or Rotorua to CC or QT and fly back.
I know I've rambled quite a bit, but it seems like the more info we give the easier it is for all you wonderful experts to help
So...what do you think?
Thanks, thanks, thanks so much for any advice!!
Lisa
First of all, we are a 37 and a 44 year old going in Feb 2006. We will have 13 nights. We would like to concentrate on the South Island, but will be flying into and out of Auckland (had to do this because we're using airline miles to fly business class from Boston...very excited about that and figured it was worth the time getting to the SI).
We are thrilled about the scenery (fiords, lakes, mountains, volcanoes---not very into beaches), would love to see wildlife like penguins,seals,albatross,dolphins. We love day hikes but just don't think we would want to do the whole Milford Track or similar, just too much time. We want to get in some adventures like zorbing, jet boating, possibly bungy jumping (really want to bungy jump so bad but not sure if I'll be able to go thru with it
)We enjoy exploring small quaint towns as well as bigger cities. (The fact that some people say that Queenstown is too touristy does not deter us)
Tops on our list is Fiordland...I'm almost positive that we would like to do an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound and also a day cruise on Milford.
The glaciers sound great, but was wondering if it is similar to an experience we had in Alaska (we took a helicopter and landed on Mendenhall glacier)
Arthur's Pass, Pancake Rocks, Mt. Cook all sound great.
As far as towns, I can't decide if going to both Christchurch and Dunedin can or should be squeezed in.
Kayaking in Abel Tasman also sounds wonderful.
When we get to Auckland, we can't decide if we should stay put after our 30-something hour journey for a day or two, or if we should book a flight that same day to CC to get all the flights over with and be on the south island right away.
We're not ruling out seeing some of the North Island (like Rotorua, which is one of the only places I think you can zorb) but can't decide if it would better to spend the whole 13 nights on the South.
Not sure what to do if we spent the first 2 nights on the North, and what would we be able to fit in in 11 nights on the South?
We are thinking about doing the camper van thing, but would want to pick it up in either Queenstown or CC. Still haven't decided if we should just rent a car. But I think to save time we would fly from either Auckland or Rotorua to CC or QT and fly back.
I know I've rambled quite a bit, but it seems like the more info we give the easier it is for all you wonderful experts to help
So...what do you think?
Thanks, thanks, thanks so much for any advice!!
Lisa
Oct 6th, 2005, 11:11 AM
#3
I prefer continuing straight on to the SI on the day of arrival. For me, the first day I am "out of it". Assuming you do arrive early in the AM, you will still have time to check in at your final destination, & do a bit of walking around, which helps with jet lag. It's also best to stay awake as long as you can on Day 1. You may get up very early the next morning. I like Christchurch or Queenstown as a city of arrival. In Christchurch, you can wander the Botanic Gardens if you get up very early, it's good for shopping and stocking up on food for your onward travels. It has a wonderful museum, not too large (Canterbury Museum).
My opinion is that you should spend all but your day before departure in the South Island, 13 nights really is not much.
If you must go to Rotorua, it's not a bad plan to go straight on to Rotorua the first day, especially if you can catch a one-way bus so you can doze if needed. There might be a morning bus that stops at Waitomo Caves and continues on the same day. Nice soak at the Polynesian Pools that evening. Then zorb & fly direct Rotorua to Queenstown the following day, and work your way back north to Christchurch, flying back to Auckland.
My opinion is that you should spend all but your day before departure in the South Island, 13 nights really is not much.
If you must go to Rotorua, it's not a bad plan to go straight on to Rotorua the first day, especially if you can catch a one-way bus so you can doze if needed. There might be a morning bus that stops at Waitomo Caves and continues on the same day. Nice soak at the Polynesian Pools that evening. Then zorb & fly direct Rotorua to Queenstown the following day, and work your way back north to Christchurch, flying back to Auckland.
Oct 6th, 2005, 12:37 PM
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We arrive AKL at 11:45 am. There are flights on Qantas from AKL to CC at 2,4,6 and 8pm and from AKL to QT there's really only one flight we'd be able to make at 2pm so I guess we should go to CC if we went on the first day.
And I've been trying to figure how what kind of route we'd be able to fit in...it seems there's no way to do a complete loop from CC-Nelson-Greymouth-Franz J- QT -Te Anau-Dunedin-CC in that short time...so my dilema now is which should we try:
1) CC - Nelson - Grey - FJ - QT - Te Anau (fly QT to AKL)
2) CC - Dunedin - Te Anau - QT - FJ - Grey (detour to Pancake) - Arthur's Pass - CC (fly CC to AKL)
Not that either of these 2 plans are my only options, but I'm trying to figure out if I had to leave out an area should it be CC to Nelson, or CC to Dunedin. Which has the prettiest scenery? Are you more likely to see penguins in one or the other area? Or should I skip them both and see mainly the west coast and try to get in more of the North Island????
This is sooo hard!!!! I've never felt so much pressure while planning a trip to figure out what NOT to see...what an amzing place this must be!! Can't wait!!
Thanks!
Lisa
And I've been trying to figure how what kind of route we'd be able to fit in...it seems there's no way to do a complete loop from CC-Nelson-Greymouth-Franz J- QT -Te Anau-Dunedin-CC in that short time...so my dilema now is which should we try:
1) CC - Nelson - Grey - FJ - QT - Te Anau (fly QT to AKL)
2) CC - Dunedin - Te Anau - QT - FJ - Grey (detour to Pancake) - Arthur's Pass - CC (fly CC to AKL)
Not that either of these 2 plans are my only options, but I'm trying to figure out if I had to leave out an area should it be CC to Nelson, or CC to Dunedin. Which has the prettiest scenery? Are you more likely to see penguins in one or the other area? Or should I skip them both and see mainly the west coast and try to get in more of the North Island????
This is sooo hard!!!! I've never felt so much pressure while planning a trip to figure out what NOT to see...what an amzing place this must be!! Can't wait!!
Thanks!
Lisa
Oct 6th, 2005, 05:21 PM
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Hi Lisa
My choice would be Nelson. It is absolutely beautiful around that area, specky views on the coast and some great bush walks if you are into that. From Nelson down the West Coast is spectacular. Although nice, Christchurch is just another big city, I feel there is much more exciting things to see and do outside of Christchurch. Milford Sound is something not to miss, I did the twilight cruise and it was amazing. Rotorua is quite different, not something you would see too often so it would be worth the trip if you can manage it. Remember NZ is pretty small, for example you can drive from Auckland to Wellington in less than 12 hours, but with your limited time I suppose you have to make some hard decisions. I was born in NZ and spent 26 years there so know the Nth Island pretty well. I have only been to the Sth Island twice and both times I loved it, so enjoy and relax!
My choice would be Nelson. It is absolutely beautiful around that area, specky views on the coast and some great bush walks if you are into that. From Nelson down the West Coast is spectacular. Although nice, Christchurch is just another big city, I feel there is much more exciting things to see and do outside of Christchurch. Milford Sound is something not to miss, I did the twilight cruise and it was amazing. Rotorua is quite different, not something you would see too often so it would be worth the trip if you can manage it. Remember NZ is pretty small, for example you can drive from Auckland to Wellington in less than 12 hours, but with your limited time I suppose you have to make some hard decisions. I was born in NZ and spent 26 years there so know the Nth Island pretty well. I have only been to the Sth Island twice and both times I loved it, so enjoy and relax!
Oct 6th, 2005, 06:09 PM
#6
Nelson is just another small cute town, focus on local crafts. Abel Tasman is very scenic, if you like coastal views and it's good for day hiking (you can get a launch pick up and drop off).
Christchurch is more English than England, has beautiful Botanic Gardens. has a very good small museum (Canterbury Museum). It's a good place to shop as well, for supplies, food, clothing, crafts. The weekend market at the Arts Centre is good if you can schedule around it. Dunedin is a centre for wildlife tours, especially for albatross & penguins. However, do some research on the breeding and nesting schedules, as they are more visible different times of the year.
The coast between Christchurch and Dunedin is not especially scenic. The Coast between Te Anau and Dunedin is. Another option might be to fly back from Dunedin to Auckland. I've also found some fast shuttles between Dunedin and Christchurch, and flown back to to the US from Chch, as there are often connecting flights available.
Christchurch is more English than England, has beautiful Botanic Gardens. has a very good small museum (Canterbury Museum). It's a good place to shop as well, for supplies, food, clothing, crafts. The weekend market at the Arts Centre is good if you can schedule around it. Dunedin is a centre for wildlife tours, especially for albatross & penguins. However, do some research on the breeding and nesting schedules, as they are more visible different times of the year.
The coast between Christchurch and Dunedin is not especially scenic. The Coast between Te Anau and Dunedin is. Another option might be to fly back from Dunedin to Auckland. I've also found some fast shuttles between Dunedin and Christchurch, and flown back to to the US from Chch, as there are often connecting flights available.
Oct 9th, 2005, 02:57 PM
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The problem I'm having is dropping off the rental camper in a different city than I pick it up. Only certain companies seem to let you drop off without a huge fee and then even those that do, the cities are limited to CHC and Queentown (on the South Island).
So, now I'm trying to work out pickup in CHC and drop off in QT,will this be too much:
Day 1- arrive Auckland 11:45am, pick up rental car,sightseeing and night in Auckland
Day 2- drive to Rotorua -zorbing and thermal pools, spend night in Rotorua
Day 3- drop off rental car, 9am flight Rotorua to CHC (arrive 11am), pick up campervan,sightseeing CHC and spend night in CHC
Day 4- drive to Nelson area and sightsee and make way to Abel Tasman area, spend night Abel Tasman
Day 5- Abel Tasman (kayaking and/or day hikes, spend night here
Day 6- Drive down coast, see Pancake Rocks, Greymouth, spend night in Hokitika
Day 7- Drive to Fox Glacier (day hike on glacier), drive to Wanaka, night in Wanaka
Day 8- drive to Queenstown, spend day sightseeing QT, night in QT
Day 9- drive to Te Anau, sightsee then overnight cruise on Doubftful Sound,
Day 10- back to QT,bungy jump or jet boat, night in QT
Day 11- maybe get in another early am activity in QT then drive to Milford sound, day cruise Milford Sound, spend night near Te Anau
Day 12- drive to Invercargill, sightsee Catlins, spend night near Dunedin
Day 13- sightsee Otago Peninsula, afternoon drive back to QT, night in QT
Day 14- 1:25pm flight QT to AKL (arrive 3:15pm) 8:30 pm flight AKL back to US
I'm real iffy on the whole QT, Milford Sound, Te Anau part...too much back tracking??? How do you fit in the overnight on Doubtful which doesn't get back til noon...wouldn't that be too late to get to Milford the same day to catch the day cruise on Milford (looks like the last one is 3pm)
I'm thinking we might have to change the last couple of days...going to Invercargill, Dunedin areas would really just be extra if we could fit it in. I'd much rather have time to work in the overnight cruise on Doubtful and a day cruise on Milford and maybe some day walks on one of the tracks, but would also like ample time in QT to get in some adventure.
So, any suggestions?????
Please help
So, now I'm trying to work out pickup in CHC and drop off in QT,will this be too much:
Day 1- arrive Auckland 11:45am, pick up rental car,sightseeing and night in Auckland
Day 2- drive to Rotorua -zorbing and thermal pools, spend night in Rotorua
Day 3- drop off rental car, 9am flight Rotorua to CHC (arrive 11am), pick up campervan,sightseeing CHC and spend night in CHC
Day 4- drive to Nelson area and sightsee and make way to Abel Tasman area, spend night Abel Tasman
Day 5- Abel Tasman (kayaking and/or day hikes, spend night here
Day 6- Drive down coast, see Pancake Rocks, Greymouth, spend night in Hokitika
Day 7- Drive to Fox Glacier (day hike on glacier), drive to Wanaka, night in Wanaka
Day 8- drive to Queenstown, spend day sightseeing QT, night in QT
Day 9- drive to Te Anau, sightsee then overnight cruise on Doubftful Sound,
Day 10- back to QT,bungy jump or jet boat, night in QT
Day 11- maybe get in another early am activity in QT then drive to Milford sound, day cruise Milford Sound, spend night near Te Anau
Day 12- drive to Invercargill, sightsee Catlins, spend night near Dunedin
Day 13- sightsee Otago Peninsula, afternoon drive back to QT, night in QT
Day 14- 1:25pm flight QT to AKL (arrive 3:15pm) 8:30 pm flight AKL back to US
I'm real iffy on the whole QT, Milford Sound, Te Anau part...too much back tracking??? How do you fit in the overnight on Doubtful which doesn't get back til noon...wouldn't that be too late to get to Milford the same day to catch the day cruise on Milford (looks like the last one is 3pm)
I'm thinking we might have to change the last couple of days...going to Invercargill, Dunedin areas would really just be extra if we could fit it in. I'd much rather have time to work in the overnight cruise on Doubtful and a day cruise on Milford and maybe some day walks on one of the tracks, but would also like ample time in QT to get in some adventure.
So, any suggestions?????
Please help
Oct 9th, 2005, 04:16 PM
#8
Just a few comments:
CH to Nelson is a long drive - over five hours per my handy little drive calculator, yet on our first trip to NZ it took us closer to 9 hours because there was so much to see and do along the way. From Nelson to Takaka (one end of Abel Tasman) it's another 90 minutes or so. Nelson to Marahau is shorter, if you're starting at that end of Abel Tasman. At which end of Abel Tasman do you plan to stay?
(http://www.accommodationz.co.nz/distances2.html)
Nelson to Hokitika is well over four hours - because you'll be leaving from Abel Tasman (not sure which end) your drive will be even longer.
I'm confused about Days 9, 10 & 11.
Going to Te Anau, then back to Queenstown then back to Milford doesn't make sense. You should head to Te Anau, spend a night or two, and then go to Milford from there. The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau is two hours, then it's another two hours from Te Anau to Milford. Your itinerary has you backtracking.
Personally, I'd skip the entire Auckland/Rotoura portion of your trip and/or skip Dunedin. There's just too much crammed into too little time.
You might also consider just doing the Doubtful Sound Cruise and skipping the Milford Sound Cruise. From what I understand the Doubtful Sound cruise is much better. I've taken the Milford Sound Cruise twice and was disappointed both times (poor weather, which the tour operators will tell you enhances the experience, but I beg to differ).
CH to Nelson is a long drive - over five hours per my handy little drive calculator, yet on our first trip to NZ it took us closer to 9 hours because there was so much to see and do along the way. From Nelson to Takaka (one end of Abel Tasman) it's another 90 minutes or so. Nelson to Marahau is shorter, if you're starting at that end of Abel Tasman. At which end of Abel Tasman do you plan to stay?
(http://www.accommodationz.co.nz/distances2.html)
Nelson to Hokitika is well over four hours - because you'll be leaving from Abel Tasman (not sure which end) your drive will be even longer.
I'm confused about Days 9, 10 & 11.
Going to Te Anau, then back to Queenstown then back to Milford doesn't make sense. You should head to Te Anau, spend a night or two, and then go to Milford from there. The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau is two hours, then it's another two hours from Te Anau to Milford. Your itinerary has you backtracking.
Personally, I'd skip the entire Auckland/Rotoura portion of your trip and/or skip Dunedin. There's just too much crammed into too little time.
You might also consider just doing the Doubtful Sound Cruise and skipping the Milford Sound Cruise. From what I understand the Doubtful Sound cruise is much better. I've taken the Milford Sound Cruise twice and was disappointed both times (poor weather, which the tour operators will tell you enhances the experience, but I beg to differ).
Oct 9th, 2005, 04:33 PM
#9
Here's another idea regarding days 9, 10 & 11 -
Day 9 - If you leave QT in the early morning, you can drive directly to Milford (total four hours), take the Milford Cruise, then drive back to Te Anau for the night.
The following day (#10) you can spend the morning in Te Anau, then take the overnight Doubtful Sound cruise, which leaves from Manapouri at 12:30 pm. Manapouri is a short drive from Te Anau.
You'll be back at Manapouri the following day (#11) at 12:30 pm. From there, you can drive back to QT (two hours) and do your QT activities.
Yet another option is to drive directly from Wanaka to Te Anau on Day 8 (3:30)and go from there.
Day 9 - If you leave QT in the early morning, you can drive directly to Milford (total four hours), take the Milford Cruise, then drive back to Te Anau for the night.
The following day (#10) you can spend the morning in Te Anau, then take the overnight Doubtful Sound cruise, which leaves from Manapouri at 12:30 pm. Manapouri is a short drive from Te Anau.
You'll be back at Manapouri the following day (#11) at 12:30 pm. From there, you can drive back to QT (two hours) and do your QT activities.
Yet another option is to drive directly from Wanaka to Te Anau on Day 8 (3:30)and go from there.
Oct 9th, 2005, 07:10 PM
#10
I respectfully disagree on the dismissal of Milford Sound. I suppose if you've only seen it in cloudy weather you can be forgiven, but the view of Mitre Peak cannot be matched by Doubtful Sound. To me, Doubtful Sound looked much like Lake Te Anau, until one finally reaches the ocean. I don't think the itinerary is really that bad, although I agree that you don;t always need to go back to Queenstown. From Manapouri or Te Anau, you can also take the Southern Scenic Route to Invercargill and Dunedin. It's a leisurly two days to reach Dunedin with stops on the Catlins Coast. Dunedin is worth full day if you travel out to the Otago Peninsula. You might want to turn in the camper rental in Queenstown and pick up a small car for the end of the journey. You should be able to drop the car off in Dunedin. Then you could fly back Dunedin to Auckland (drop off the car at Dunedin airport on your last day).
Oct 10th, 2005, 01:08 AM
#11
mlgb -
I have yet to find someone who agrees with me about Milford Sound (except my travel partner), but I honestly don't understand what all the fuss is about. Having said that, I'd love to see it on a clear day!
Just to clarify for the OP though - I have NOT been to Doubtful Sound, so I can't personally vouch for it, but until now, I've not heard a single negative remark about it. It's been on my personal "to do" list for a long time.
luv2globetrot - if you do decide to do both Milford and Doubtful, please let us know your impressions of the two when you return.
I have yet to find someone who agrees with me about Milford Sound (except my travel partner), but I honestly don't understand what all the fuss is about. Having said that, I'd love to see it on a clear day!
Just to clarify for the OP though - I have NOT been to Doubtful Sound, so I can't personally vouch for it, but until now, I've not heard a single negative remark about it. It's been on my personal "to do" list for a long time.
luv2globetrot - if you do decide to do both Milford and Doubtful, please let us know your impressions of the two when you return.
Oct 10th, 2005, 04:24 AM
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Thanks Melnq8 and mlgb for the advice. I'm beginning to think maybe we should just cut out the Dunedin and/or Invercargill sidetrips altogether. That would give us more time on the leg from CHC to Nelson, and maybe we could even spend a night in that area...Melnq8, any ideas on a good town to spend the night? I think I'd feel much more relaxed if we gave ourselves 2 nights in QT and 3 nights in Te Anau.
The hard part of all this is that I think that the QT/Milford/Doubtful part of the trip is going to be where we want to spend the most time, but it's coming on the end of our trip...so I want to make absolutley sure we have enough time on the end to see it and not be disappointed that we have to leave without doing lots of things we wanted to do.
I've thought about reversing the trip and starting from QT and ending in CHC, that way we could take as much time as we wanted down there and then if were shortchanged on time we'd be missing out on CHC, which doesn't seem to get as much raving praise. But for some reason I'm hesitant to start out at the "best" part...is that silly?
Anyway, am I the only one who dreams about their itinerary??? I swear, I can barely sleep at night thinking about all this, and when I do I dream about it!!!
Thanks for your support!
The hard part of all this is that I think that the QT/Milford/Doubtful part of the trip is going to be where we want to spend the most time, but it's coming on the end of our trip...so I want to make absolutley sure we have enough time on the end to see it and not be disappointed that we have to leave without doing lots of things we wanted to do.
I've thought about reversing the trip and starting from QT and ending in CHC, that way we could take as much time as we wanted down there and then if were shortchanged on time we'd be missing out on CHC, which doesn't seem to get as much raving praise. But for some reason I'm hesitant to start out at the "best" part...is that silly?
Anyway, am I the only one who dreams about their itinerary??? I swear, I can barely sleep at night thinking about all this, and when I do I dream about it!!!
Thanks for your support!
Oct 10th, 2005, 06:16 PM
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just had to respond to your last message. We are also planning a trip to NZ next FEB/MARCH and yes I do spend the nights either thinking or dreaming about the itinerary especially the nights I spend too much time on this computer!! Have you found a place to stay in Te Anau? We are planning an overnight on Doubtful Sound, plus a day driving to Milford Sound. Hope you have a great trip.
Oct 10th, 2005, 06:47 PM
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Hi Lisa,
I am in the same boat! We are planning a trip for this december and I too keep deaming abt the trip when I am not browsing through other people's travelogs! And yes I am also saving the best "Milford Sound" for the last.
A friend who had visited NZ last year recommended Barnyard Backpackers as a good place to stay in Te Anau.
So one question I had was if we do Milford Sound do you think it
I am in the same boat! We are planning a trip for this december and I too keep deaming abt the trip when I am not browsing through other people's travelogs! And yes I am also saving the best "Milford Sound" for the last.
A friend who had visited NZ last year recommended Barnyard Backpackers as a good place to stay in Te Anau.
So one question I had was if we do Milford Sound do you think it
Oct 10th, 2005, 10:01 PM
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Hi Luv2globetrot,
Given the distance the Abel Tasman NP is from the rest of the "hot"spots, I would seriously consider dropping the Nelson leg. To really appreciate the park, you really need to spend longer there, and I'm sure you can kayak in Milford or Doubtful sound. You said you are not into beaches - that is one of the main attractions at Able Tas NP.
I would leave this area for a time when you have longer.
Instead, I would look at spending longer in the Dunedin area with it's combination of incredible architecture and wildlife reserves.
Invercargill is not worth going to on this length trip and I would personally also skip the Caitlins. Itr's not one of the majors.
I would stick with a shortish side trip to Rotorua with the Zorbing. Make sure you spend a couple of hours exploring Kuirau Park - just behind the town centre.
If you enjoy quaint towns, you have to spend at least half a day in Arrowtown, just north of Queenstown and while you are there make sure you check out the chinese camp excavations. It's amazing how they lived back then.
I would go Auckland - Rotorua - Christchurch - West coast - Queenstown - Milford/Doubtful Sound - Dunedin - Auckland.
If you do go to Dunedin - take a couple of hours and do the Tunnel Beach walk. I have described it in other threads. It is an amazing place - such a rugged bit of coast.
There is not much time in any one place but it will give you a good overview and heaps of material for planning NZtrip2.
Given the distance the Abel Tasman NP is from the rest of the "hot"spots, I would seriously consider dropping the Nelson leg. To really appreciate the park, you really need to spend longer there, and I'm sure you can kayak in Milford or Doubtful sound. You said you are not into beaches - that is one of the main attractions at Able Tas NP.
I would leave this area for a time when you have longer.
Instead, I would look at spending longer in the Dunedin area with it's combination of incredible architecture and wildlife reserves.
Invercargill is not worth going to on this length trip and I would personally also skip the Caitlins. Itr's not one of the majors.
I would stick with a shortish side trip to Rotorua with the Zorbing. Make sure you spend a couple of hours exploring Kuirau Park - just behind the town centre.
If you enjoy quaint towns, you have to spend at least half a day in Arrowtown, just north of Queenstown and while you are there make sure you check out the chinese camp excavations. It's amazing how they lived back then.
I would go Auckland - Rotorua - Christchurch - West coast - Queenstown - Milford/Doubtful Sound - Dunedin - Auckland.
If you do go to Dunedin - take a couple of hours and do the Tunnel Beach walk. I have described it in other threads. It is an amazing place - such a rugged bit of coast.
There is not much time in any one place but it will give you a good overview and heaps of material for planning NZtrip2.
Oct 10th, 2005, 11:14 PM
#17
And now you are even more confused! Since I've been to Milford Sound twice and Doubtful once, my opinion counts! One nice thing about NZ, is that you will find beautiful scenery no matter where you go, so don't worry too much about missing the best. After 6 trips I'm still looking forward to returning.
And yes, going to Queenstown first is a good option. I really don't think Te Anau itself has much to offer other than a convenient location for visiting Fiordland. So can't imagine spending three nights there. I also find Arrowtown itself worth about an hour. The Arrowtown Golf Course, on the other hand, is worth the side trip.
And yes, going to Queenstown first is a good option. I really don't think Te Anau itself has much to offer other than a convenient location for visiting Fiordland. So can't imagine spending three nights there. I also find Arrowtown itself worth about an hour. The Arrowtown Golf Course, on the other hand, is worth the side trip.
Oct 11th, 2005, 12:49 AM
#18
luv2globetrot -
As far as where to spend the night in the Nelson area:
If Abel Tasman is your destination, I'd suggest you stay in Takaka, Marahau, Kaiteriteri or Motueka, which are all very close to Abel Tasman. Nelson itself is a bit of a drive, and not the best option IMO.
Motueka is about 30 minute drive from Nelson, and Marahau & Kaiteriteri are a tiny bit further.
Motueka and Takaka (Golden Bay) are separated by Takaka Hill, a drive that takes about 45 minutes.
You can access the park from either end - Takaka at the north end (at the Totaranui Visitor's Center) or Marahau at the south end.
Takaka and Motueka offer more services, such as restaurants, hotels, etc. Kaiteriteri and Marahau are smaller areas - Kaiteriteri has a gorgeous beach, and accommodation there is limited to mostly B&Bs and privately owned cottages. Marahau is also small, but has more lodging options. Water taxis and kayak rentals are available at both locations.
If you're looking for a secluded area with very few services, Marahau or Kaiteriteri are for you. If you'd rather be closer to a small town, Takaka or Motueka would be better.
As far as specifics, we've stayed at the following places and have enjoyed all of them:
The Blue Moon B&B (Motueka area)
The Old Schoolhouse Cottage (Tasman area, very near Motueka)
Ashlea Downs Cottage (Takaka)
I love this part of NZ.
Starting your trip in Queenstown is a good option - personally, I'm not a fan of Christchurch and we usually just pass through. Invercargill is not really worth a visit unless you're just passing through. It's a flat, agricultural town with a nice park and that's about it. We spent three nights there once, just for grins.
We liked the Catlins well enough, but I have to agree with Kiwis2, I wouldn't go out of my way unless I had enough time to thoroughly enjoy the area.
I've spent three nights in Te Anau, and while I enjoyed myself, I probably wouldn't do it again, unless it was just out of convenience as a base for the fiords.
I have to agree with mlgb that Arrowtown was worth about an hour. I've also been to NZ six times and like mlgb, still haven't gotten enough.
Don't stress too much - you really can't go wrong in NZ.
Have a great trip!
As far as where to spend the night in the Nelson area:
If Abel Tasman is your destination, I'd suggest you stay in Takaka, Marahau, Kaiteriteri or Motueka, which are all very close to Abel Tasman. Nelson itself is a bit of a drive, and not the best option IMO.
Motueka is about 30 minute drive from Nelson, and Marahau & Kaiteriteri are a tiny bit further.
Motueka and Takaka (Golden Bay) are separated by Takaka Hill, a drive that takes about 45 minutes.
You can access the park from either end - Takaka at the north end (at the Totaranui Visitor's Center) or Marahau at the south end.
Takaka and Motueka offer more services, such as restaurants, hotels, etc. Kaiteriteri and Marahau are smaller areas - Kaiteriteri has a gorgeous beach, and accommodation there is limited to mostly B&Bs and privately owned cottages. Marahau is also small, but has more lodging options. Water taxis and kayak rentals are available at both locations.
If you're looking for a secluded area with very few services, Marahau or Kaiteriteri are for you. If you'd rather be closer to a small town, Takaka or Motueka would be better.
As far as specifics, we've stayed at the following places and have enjoyed all of them:
The Blue Moon B&B (Motueka area)
The Old Schoolhouse Cottage (Tasman area, very near Motueka)
Ashlea Downs Cottage (Takaka)
I love this part of NZ.
Starting your trip in Queenstown is a good option - personally, I'm not a fan of Christchurch and we usually just pass through. Invercargill is not really worth a visit unless you're just passing through. It's a flat, agricultural town with a nice park and that's about it. We spent three nights there once, just for grins.
We liked the Catlins well enough, but I have to agree with Kiwis2, I wouldn't go out of my way unless I had enough time to thoroughly enjoy the area.
I've spent three nights in Te Anau, and while I enjoyed myself, I probably wouldn't do it again, unless it was just out of convenience as a base for the fiords.
I have to agree with mlgb that Arrowtown was worth about an hour. I've also been to NZ six times and like mlgb, still haven't gotten enough.
Don't stress too much - you really can't go wrong in NZ.
Have a great trip!
Oct 11th, 2005, 09:15 AM
#19
I know Invercargill gets no respect. But you mention an interest in towns. So check out Dee ST, with interesting commercial architecture and a few good antique stores. There is also an incredible outlet store (Knight of NZ) for baby lamb clothing and other sheepskin items (gloves & slippers) at 21 Leven St. They would have limited hours but if you are there during a weekday, it's worth a look. Also love the tuatarium and Roaring 40's Exhibit at the Southland Museum. And good food at Jagz Cafe in a residential district near Queens Park (best pumpkin soup of the trip).
Oct 11th, 2005, 11:03 AM
#20
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Ok, wow...lots to process! Thanks to all of you!!
Just to clarify, I was only thinking of basing in (or near)Te Anau so that we could get in a day with a nice leisurely drive on Milford road with stops for some of the walks along the way (maybe even walking a half day on one of the tracks) and, a day cruise on Milford Sound, and an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. This seems like, to do it all justice, you'd need 3 nights in the area (this includes the night on the boat).
-Melnq8, thanks for all the info on Nelson/Abel Tasman. But it's sounding like we might not make it there...who knows at this point
-Kiwis2 and mlgb, thanks for theall the advice and the Arrowtown tip...it's now on the list!
-Sueger, we haven't made ANY reservations yet..we are still deciding if we want to go the campervan route...sweet dreams
-Vandy,from everything I've read here I"m ready to do an overnight on Doubtful and a day cruise on Milford...good luck and sweet dreams to you, too:
So, yes, I am almost back to square one with planning this itinerary, but I sure have some great ideas thanks to all of you generous posters!!! Thanks so much!
Here's another question...I couln't find on the forum...Can you do an unguided DAY walk on one of the tracks (thinking Routeburn) for free, where you just walk til you're ready to turn around (like just a few hours)?
Lisa
Just to clarify, I was only thinking of basing in (or near)Te Anau so that we could get in a day with a nice leisurely drive on Milford road with stops for some of the walks along the way (maybe even walking a half day on one of the tracks) and, a day cruise on Milford Sound, and an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. This seems like, to do it all justice, you'd need 3 nights in the area (this includes the night on the boat).
-Melnq8, thanks for all the info on Nelson/Abel Tasman. But it's sounding like we might not make it there...who knows at this point
-Kiwis2 and mlgb, thanks for theall the advice and the Arrowtown tip...it's now on the list!
-Sueger, we haven't made ANY reservations yet..we are still deciding if we want to go the campervan route...sweet dreams
-Vandy,from everything I've read here I"m ready to do an overnight on Doubtful and a day cruise on Milford...good luck and sweet dreams to you, too
:So, yes, I am almost back to square one with planning this itinerary, but I sure have some great ideas thanks to all of you generous posters!!! Thanks so much!
Here's another question...I couln't find on the forum...Can you do an unguided DAY walk on one of the tracks (thinking Routeburn) for free, where you just walk til you're ready to turn around (like just a few hours)?
Lisa
