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7-Day Nature Itinerary in New Zealand for September 2023

  1. Day 1: Auckland
    5 minutes (1 mile) from Auckland CBD

    Start your trip with a visit to the Auckland Domain, home to the Auckland War Memorial Museum. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit for panoramic views of Auckland. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the Viaduct Harbour.

  2. Day 2: Waitomo Caves
    2.5 hours (134 miles) from Auckland

    Explore the stunning Waitomo Caves with a guided tour of the glowworm grotto. After lunch, visit the nearby Otorohanga Kiwi House to see live kiwis and other native birds up close. In the evening, stay in Waitomo and enjoy stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve.

  3. Day 3: Tongariro National Park
    2.5 hours (118 miles) from Waitomo Caves

    Embark on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a challenging day hike with incredible views of active volcanic terrain. In the evening, relax in the natural hot springs at Tokaanu Thermal Pools.

  4. Day 4: Wellington
    4 hours (186 miles) from Tongariro National Park

    Spend the morning at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand. After lunch, take a cable car to the Botanic Gardens for stunning views of the city. In the evening, dine at one of Wellington's many excellent restaurants.

  5. Day 5: Abel Tasman National Park
    3.5 hours (103 miles) from Wellington

    Take a water taxi to Abel Tasman National Park for a day of kayaking, hiking, and beachcombing. In the evening, stay in the charming town of Nelson and explore its many art galleries and boutiques.

  6. Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier
    5 hours (232 miles) from Abel Tasman National Park

    Take a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier and land on the ice for a guided walk. In the afternoon, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see kiwis and other rare birds. In the evening, relax at the Glacier Hot Pools.

  7. Day 7: Milford Sound
    4.5 hours (224 miles) from Franz Josef Glacier

    Take a scenic drive to Milford Sound and enjoy a boat tour of the stunning fjord. In the afternoon, hike the Milford Track or take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner in Queenstown.

Recommendations

New Zealand has so many incredible natural attractions that it's hard to fit them all into one itinerary! Consider adding a visit to Mount Cook National Park or the Bay of Islands. For an unforgettable side trip, take a helicopter tour of the remote Fiordland National Park. And don't forget to try some of New Zealand's famous wine and seafood along the way!

For help in booking your hotel and flights, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.

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