New Zealand Travel Advisory: Why It’s Not Recommended to Visit Right Now
I’m here! New Zealand is absolutely breathtaking! Catching the tail end of summer in this enchanting country, I can’t recommend it enough! [Shy R]
This time, my best friend and I embarked on an 8-day adventure in New Zealand. Initially, we planned to travel independently, but given the logistical challenges and the desire to avoid long bus rides, we opted for a small group tour to ensure a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.
❤ Total Cost
The tour cost us around 14,000 RMB per person. While I typically prefer independent travel, this small group tour was a fantastic choice and provided a seamless experience.
❤ Some of My Favorite Attractions and Activities
『Queenstown』- This charming town strikes a perfect balance between natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Queenstown offers well-developed commercial facilities. Despite its compact size, exploring the town is a delightful experience.
『Queenstown Skyline + Buffet』- This experience includes a scenic cable car ride followed by a buffet dinner with a window seat. The panoramic views from the cable car up to Queenstown are simply mesmerizing.
『Mount Cook』
Our trip to Mount Cook was a highlight, featuring a full day of hiking. The trail we took was relatively flat and easy, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and serene lakes.
Every turn revealed a new, picture-perfect scene!
『Lake Tekapo』
We were fortunate to visit Lake Tekapo on a calm, windless day, which made the scenery even more spectacular. The milky blue lake and surrounding snow-capped mountains created a visually stunning and refreshing landscape.
『Stargazing Town』
A must-visit for photography enthusiasts, this spot offers a unique and awe-inspiring night sky, unlike anything you’ll see in China.
It’s a true celestial wonder!
『Milford Sound Cruise』
Our tour included a cruise on the Monarch, complete with a lavish buffet. The fjord’s dramatic and breathtaking scenery left us in awe.
❤ Some Small Tips
1. New Zealand experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, so a windbreaker is essential. Consider packing two lightweight jackets that are easy to layer. If you’re into photography, bring some brightly colored outfits and dresses; they’ll look fabulous without any editing.
2. Make sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll likely be taking at least 10,000 steps each day.
3. Sun protection is crucial due to the strong UV rays. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, a hat, and other sun protection essentials.
❤ [Random Thoughts]
1. The initial days of the tour were quite packed, with considerable distances between each attraction. However, as we settled into the rhythm, the subsequent days became more relaxed and enjoyable. We had ample time to savor each destination, and even enjoyed two free days in the charming town of Queenstown, allowing us to explore at our own pace.
2. For anyone concerned about transportation, particularly those dreading cramped and exhausting rides, our 8-person small group tour was a breath of fresh air. Despite being designed for eight, there were only four of us, and we traveled in a spacious 7-seater Alphard minivan. This meant everyone had a window seat, providing stunning views throughout the journey.
3. Our accommodations included five nights in a 4-star hotel and two nights in a luxurious 5-star hotel. Overall, the rooms were not only spacious but also impeccably clean and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable stay every night.
4. The meal plan included daily breakfasts at the hotels, and we were treated to five special meals, with the Milford Sound cruise buffet being the highlight. In Queenstown, we indulged in another delightful buffet, where the seafood, especially the succulent shrimp and tender beef/lamb, was simply divine.
For those who prefer a stress-free travel experience without the hassle of planning, you can follow our itinerary for a seamless and enjoyable trip!
