10 Days in New Zealand (in Pictures)

Auckland

I flew Air New Zealand into Auckland, the country's largest city, and began my trip on the North Island. Auckland is known as the City of Sails since so many residents own boats (in fact, around one out of every three families has one). For a big city, Auckland's center is extremely walkable, so I got plenty of exercise in between checking out the urban culture, delicious restaurants, and adventure activities.

Waiheke Island

I left the big city for a day trip to Waiheke Island. Less than an hour from Auckland by ferry, this island's unique soil makes it the perfect spot to grow grapes and olives (which are then turned into delicious wine and olive oil, respectively). Although the island is only 12 miles long, there are more boutique vineyards than you could (or should) ever sample in one day. There's also a vibrant artist community with a noteworthy gallery and a sculpture park. The amazing scenery of farmland, forests, beaches, and olive groves make this island oasis one of my favorite spots in the country.

Bay of Islands

A few hours' drive from Auckland brought me to the Bay of Islands, one of the North Island's maritime playgrounds. The beautiful beaches and clear water beg to be explored. I got a great overview of the area on a sightseeing and dolphin-watching tour, which gave me serious private-island envy.

Paihia Dive

Even though it had just turned to spring and the water was rough, I had to get in the water! A dive tour with Paihia Dive got me on the ocean floor, where I met some super cute and colorful New Zealand natives. On the surface, I even got to swim with some friendly seals, who appeared more amused than threatened by my uncoordinated scuba splashing.

Te Puia

Maori culture is a strong influence on New Zealand, and I wanted to learn more about it. I visited Te Puia, a cultural center that showcases Maori dances, history, and traditions.

Scenic Drives

Even just driving around New Zealand is an incredible experience—the scenery changes from mile to mile, and it's breathtaking. Best of all, I visited during lamb season, so cute farm animals seemed to be around every corner. (Unfortunately for this vegetarian, so did signs promoting McDonald's Lamb Burgers.)

White Island

I got to take my very first helicopter ride while in New Zealand. The aerial views of the country were stunning, as was the experience of landing on White Island. The island, an active volcano, had a small eruption only a few weeks before I visited.

Volcanic Air Safaris

Walking around the volcano's crater felt like being on another planet—I've never seen anything like it before. Steam was everywhere, as was a sulfuric smell (fortunately, Volcanic Air Safaris provided my tour group with gas masks). For you fans of The Lord of the Rings, some scenes from the movies were filmed here.

Queenstown

Queenstown is my favorite New Zealand city. It has everything—a spectacular scenery of lakes and mountains, incredible restaurants, skiing and other snow sports in the winter, adventure activities, and a lively nightlife. I met a number of expats who came here for a visit and just never left; I can certainly see why.

Sam Summer's Track

Only a few miles outside of Queenstown, you can find plenty of trails to hike. I did the Sam Summer's track, where I saw native birds, waterfalls, and former gold-mining spots. Mountain views rewarded me at almost every turn of the walk.

Peregrine Vineyard

Throughout my trip, I kept noticing that New Zealand has a real commitment to the environment. I learned that the country works hard to preserve native species of wildlife (in fact, you have to declare hiking boots when arriving in the country, as travelers could unintentionally carry in unwanted bugs or soil), and that the organic movement is embraced there. Many of the vineyards I visited, like the one pictured above, Peregrine, were certified organic. Peregrine also donates to organizations that help protect its namesake bird (as well as a few other avian species).

Farewell

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and so did my New Zealand trip. I left with a smile on my face, however, after seeing the New Zealand attitude towards airport gate assignments.

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