Fora’s Take
New Zealand happens to be the last destination prior to flying to Antarctica. And Christchurch is the city for arrivals from Antarctica!
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Things to do in New Zealand
Christchurch - International Antarctic Centre - There is something for everyone! From learning about Penguins to riding around the outside in a Hägglund! There is a storm dome to recreate the weather in Antarctica.
Omaru - Steampunk HQ - This is another interactive museum! Exhibits include the world of Steampunk throughout the years. They love people to take photos and it's inexpensive!
Queenstown - Milford Sound - This is a perfect spot for a river cruise and experience the peacefulness of the fjord! Dolphins are often seen swimming along side the boat and jumping out of the water.
Greymouth - Franz Josef Glacier - If hiking and waterfalls are your favorite then this is a must see! There is a bit of hike to get close to the glacier. Along the way some of the most breathtaking views can be taken in.
From Greymouth to Picton driving along the 6 will be plenty of ocean views along with forests. Also be aware that the road is very winding the closer to Picton you get!
Picton - Aquariums - Ship museums - There is so much to be seen in Picton! There is a ship museum that has the actual ship used to transport settlers to NZ from Europe! This is where the Ferry to Wellington is boarded.
Picton/Wellington - There is a ferry to connect these two cities. The ferry is about 3 hours long and we highly recommend upgrading to first class as there is a meal and super comfy seating!
Napier - Prison Museum - There is an old prison that has become a museum that is super cool! The tour is self guided and has so much information about the past prisoners.
Matamata - HOBBITON!! - The tour of Hobbiton if you are a Lord of the Rings fan is a must! We opted for the upgraded tickets and had lunch with another group of tourists.
Auckland - Sky Tower - They have their own "Space Needle". Level 60 is the observation deck and is 722 feet above the ground.
We visited all of these places and then some within 2 weeks of driving ourselves around both islands. Be sure to stop and take in all of the beauty this country has to offer.
Places to eat & drink in New Zealand
Food in NZ that you have to try
Lamb - Lamb is served almost everywhere!
Mince Pies - Meat and pie shell what could go wrong?!
Fish and Chips - Fresh-caught fish with chips have never tasted better.
Manuka Honey - either as regular honey or as a hard candy.
Wine all over the country! Wineries are all over the South Island!
Lemon & Paeroa (L&P) Soda - Our favorite drink!
Marmite - A spread for your toast! Don't worry it's an acquired taste!
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Zealand.