Kiwi Wonders: Exploring Our Places to Visit in New Zealand

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Kiwi Wonders: Exploring Our Places to Visit in New Zealand

Come along on our adventure through the stunning scenery and let’s discover the best places to visit in New Zealand! With our little one in tow, we embarked on this unforgettable journey. From the rugged coastlines to the majestic mountains, the North Island’s beauty and culture left a lasting impression on us. Join us as we share our experiences, tips, and favorite spots, all with a personal touch and the genuine commitment of a trusted review. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, let us inspire you to explore the wonders of Kiwi country!

Content Teaser

1 Don’t Miss Out: Our Must-See Gems Within Easy Reach

2 Where We Rested

3 Plant-Based Dining Options

4 How We Got Around

5 What We Spent

6 Instaramable Spots

7 FAQ Section

Quick Peek

Fact-sheet about our New Zealand trip for our busy travelers.

Travel Time

March/April

Travel Mode

Journey 1,5 months

Our Must-Sees

Tauranga, Blue Springs,
Mount Paku

Where to stay

AirBnB

Plant-Based Food

Sunflower Thai, Auckland

Mobility

Rental car EZI
Toyota Hilux

Travel Budget

around €390 (693NZL$) per day

Explore New Zealand’s Hidden Treasures: Our Top Picks
Tauranga and Surroundings: A Home Away from Home (3 weeks)

Tauranga and its surroundings captured our hearts like no other. We spent over three weeks immersed in its beauty, and it felt like the perfect home. Whether it was the morning jogging routes along the beachfront or the daily beach strolls, the exhilarating climb up Mount Maunganui, or the idyllic surf town vibes, Tauranga had it all for us. It truly was the perfect place to be.

Places to visit in New Zealand - Blue Springs Drone shot
Rotorua and Surroundings: Where Our Journey Began (3 days)

Rotorua and its surroundings served as our gateway to the wonders of New Zealand. From the moment we arrived, we were enchanted by the region’s thermal springs and unique geothermal features. Rotorua’s exceptional charm lies in its extraordinary landscapes and rich Maori culture, making it a must-visit destination. Just a short drive away, the tranquil landscapes of Putaruru offer a serene escape. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear springs, Putaruru captivates with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s North Island.

Auckland: The City of Sails (4 days)

Auckland, known as the “City of Sails,” beckons visitors with its vibrant urban energy and breathtaking waterfront. Explore its bustling markets, iconic landmarks, and diverse culinary scene, all set against the backdrop of stunning harbor views.

Places to visit in New Zealand - Piha Beach Drone shot
Piha Beach (Daytrip)

Piha Beach calls out with its rugged coastline and natural beauty, offering an entrance to New Zealand’s stunning scenery. From the instant we stepped onto its shores, we were drawn to the dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and crashing waves. Piha’s charm is in its wild landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic coastal experience, and it’s just a short 40-kilometer drive from Auckland. Known as a surfer’s paradise, Piha Beach’s waves beckon enthusiasts from around the globe.

Whakapapa: Gateway to Tongariro National Park (2 days)

Whakapapa serves as the gateway to Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic landscapes and world-class hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Whakapapa and discover the magic of New Zealand’s oldest national park.

Places to visit in New Zealand - National Park sign
Tairua: A Peaceful Getaway (3 days)

Surrounded by stunning scenery, Tairua offers a calm retreat for travelers who love nature. With its beautiful beaches, green forests, and charming villages, Tairua is a special place waiting to be explored. It’s just a 140-kilometer drive from Auckland, so it’s easy to get to for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Rest and Recharge: Our Favorite Accos Across New Zealand
Oceanfront Bliss in Tauranga: A Unforgettable Airbnb Experience

One of the highlights of our journey across New Zealand was our stay at an Airbnb in Tauranga, located on the picturesque Oceanbeach Road. This accommodation stands out as one of the best we’ve ever experienced, offering unparalleled oceanfront views and a serene atmosphere. Although it’s no longer available for rent, we highly recommend exploring the surrounding area, which perfectly embodies the essence of a New Zealand ocean road – simply fantastic.

Discovering Comfort and Charm: Our Airbnb Escapes Across New Zealand

In addition to our memorable stay in Tauranga, we also opted for Airbnb accommodations in Rotorua, Auckland, Tairua, and Whakapapa, each offering its own unique charm and comfort. From cozy city apartments to charming countryside cottages, Airbnb provided us with unforgettable experiences in every destination.

Feel free to reach out to us for the exact addresses and links to these accommodations. We’d be delighted to share our favorite Airbnb gems with you, ensuring your New Zealand adventure is as unforgettable as ours.

Places to visit in New Zealand - AirBnb in Tairua
Green Eats: Our Guide to Vegan Dining in New Zealand

During our travels, we nearly exclusively pursued self-catering options. As vegans, we discovered our bliss in the supermarkets of New World – where we stumbled upon a vast array of vegan options. This abundance was particularly evident in our accommodations, especially in Tauranga, where preparing meals at home felt like a natural choice.

Our experience in Auckland, however, was a bit surprising. The selection of vegan options was less abundant than anticipated. However, we found solace in establishments like Revive Cafe on Wyndham Street and the Sunflower Thai restaurant, both of which we highly recommend. Despite this, there are still plenty of restaurants offering a variety of vegetarian options.

 

On the Move: Exploring New Zealand’s Mobility Options for Travelers

During our exploration of New Zealand, we chose to go with a rental car, specifically a Toyota Hilux rented through EZI. From time to time, you hear or even experience unpleasant encounters with car rental companies. However, we can wholeheartedly recommend EZI. Everything worked wonderfully, and the car became a faithful companion throughout our journey. Due to the vast distances and rural infrastructure, we wouldn’t recommend exploring this part of New Zealand without a rental car. However, for those focusing solely on the major cities like Auckland and Wellington, public transport is a viable alternative.

Rental Car in NZL
Counting the Costs: A Breakdown of Our New Zealand Expenses
Here’s a quick look at our budget for our 1,5 months New Zealand adventure, providing a straightforward overview of what to keep in mind.
Accomodation

Tauranga €385 (684NZL$)
Tairua €125 (222NZL$)
Whakapapa €95 (169NZL$)
Rotorua €150 (276NZL$)
Auckland €145 (275NZL$)
all prices per day

 

Food & Dining

Mainly self-catering
around €50 (89NZL$) per day

Mobility

Rental car Toyota Hilux
around €90 (160NZL$) per day

Activities

Glowworm Cave Fam.Ticket €108 (191NZL$)
Te Puia Fam.Ticket €126 (226NZL$)
rest: free of charge!

Total Spent

around €390 (693NZL$) per day
without air fare

Picture-Perfect: Northern New Zealand’s Most Instagram-Worthy Locations

While we’ll be showcasing a few stunning spots in this section, it’s essential to note that the North Island is brimming with beauty. For an in-depth exploration of the best spots, be sure to check out our dedicated posts.

Curious About New Zealand? Here Are the Answers to Your FAQs

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