Quote:
Originally Posted by skyblueoceanair
If I were starting in Christchurch, was is the most logical and sequential way to see all the great parts of NZ without backtracking too much, ending up in Aukland. Is a week enough time? Should I plan for more? I have a semi-flexible schedule, will be staying in hostels, and just out to have a great adventure! Part of the round-the-world trip. I am interested in the train option, which I found at RailNewZealand.com...as local as possible, not into tourist traps (I live on a tourist trap island as it is, ha!)
But if there are any locals out there with good advice for maximizing my trip, I've heard amazing things about NZ and look forward to a great time!
Thanks in advance.
|
I live in Christchurch so here's my view as a Kiwi hosting. You'll need longer than 2 weeks and probably best to go by backpacker buses or rental car although there are a couple of train trips you can do (see later). Hitchiking also another option but, like anywhere, you do this at your own risk. I'd hate to say NZ is relatively safe and you get into trouble.
The South Island is more scenic with the Southern Alps while the North Island has the many more urban centres, our largest city Auckland, our capital Wellington, and Rotorua with its thermal activity.
The country is bigger than most people think. From ChCh to Invercargill it is 578km, from Invercargill to Nelson 1016km, and Wellington to Auckland 658km. The roads are not freeways but two-lane roads (except near Auckland) so driving is slower than what you'd probably be used to. Plus we drive on the left.
From ChCh you can do a day train trip to the West Coast and back going through Arthurs Pass. Its a good trip and geared towards both domestic and overseas tourists. There is also a day train trip between ChCh and Picton (where the North Island ferry berths). Both these trips can also be done one-way. Thats the extent of the trains in the South Island.
Theres also other trips from ChCh such as Akaroa, Port Hills & Hanmer Springs but unless you have unlimited time, you'll need to pick and choose depending on what you want to see and do.
I would suggest head south from ChCh down the East Coast, through Dunedin to Invercargill, then north to Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown (youll need to backtrack through Te Anau to get to Queenstown), Wanaka , up the West Coast to Nelson and over to Picton where you can catch the ferry to the North Island. There are day trips from Queenstown to Milford Sound but it is a long day (distance 291km each way).
I would give at least 2 weeks for the South Island trip alone. You will miss the MacKenzie country (Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook) with the above itinery but you could divert to do these too if you have the time.
Once in Wellington I'd pretty much head north through Taupo, Rotorua Hamilton and Auckland. As others have said, the South Island is more scenic but it is worth seeing the Central plateau and Rotorua (geyser activity) in the North Island. There is a train that goes from Welllington to Auckland but doesnt go via Taupo and Rotorua. Rail website attached.
Official Website for New Zealand Train and Rail Journeys – Tranz Scenic
If you want some info let me know via my e-mail. I can send you a road map and go into a backpackers in town and pick up some brochures for you.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
