A seven day city break in New Zealand

Days 1 - 3: Auckland

A city blessed by its proximity to the water, Auckland is fringed with rich farmland and nestled between two large harbours that make it one of the most picturesque cities in the world. 

Our recommendations:

• Walk among greats at the Auckland Art Gallery
  Picasso, Matisse and Gaugin may grace the walls of the Auckland Art Gallery, but the wealth of traditional and contemporary Māori art on display is what makes this gallery a truly unique cultural experience.
• Meet the locals at the Matakana Farmers Market
  Just north of the city, you’ll find the foodie haven that is Matakana. Visit on the weekend to offer a friendly, “Kia ora,” to the local vendors at the village Farmers Market.
• Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island
  Take a break from your city break and hop on a ferry to Waiheke. Only 35 minutes from Auckland’s CBD, this slower-paced retreat is known as ‘the island of wine’ for the many spectacular wineries and vineyards that call it home.

Days 3 - 5: Wellington

A charming little city found at the bottom of the North Island, Wellington’s sandy beaches, colourful timber houses and bushy hillsides make it an absolute pleasure to explore.

Our recommendations:

• Have a coffee
  If they’re passionate about anything in Wellington, it’s coffee. In fact, it’s one of the top cities in the world for it. You can’t really go wrong, so simply stroll around until you find a café you like the look of and prepare to treat your tastebuds.
• Ride the red cable car
  It’s a bit of a rite of passage to hop aboard the bright red cable car in Lambton Quay. It climbs up through the hillside giving you panoramic views of the city and easy access to the Botanic Gardens and city observatory.
• Get a taste of local life
  As well as being the literal capital of New Zealand, Wellington takes the title of culinary capital too. Take a trip down Hannahs laneway for a smorgasbord of baked treats, handmade chocolates, woodfired pizzas and endless craft breweries.

 

How to get there:

Fly (Non-Stop) from Auckland to Wellington with Jetstar (1h 05min) and save with Qantas Explorer.

Days 5 - 7: Christchurch

Old meets new in the constantly evolving city of Christchurch. With some of the coolest new buildings in the country sitting alongside some of the oldest, you’ll find something fascinating around every twist and turn. Alternatively, it also provides the perfect gateway to some of the South Island's most stunning off-grid adventures. 

Our recommendations:

• Learn the history of Quake City
  Part of the reason for Christchurch’s constant evolution is due to a series of massive earthquakes that struck the region between 2010 - 2011. Quake City is an interactive museum experience that’s an absolute must for tourists of all ages.
• Follow the Waipara wine trail
  Christchurch is home to some of the best wineries in the world, meaning there’s almost no better place to end your trip than on a day tour through the Waipara wine region, sampling the best of the best as you go.
• Go stargazing at Mount Cook
  Escape the city for a night and venture into Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s tallest mountains and the world’s darkest skies.

 

How to get there:

Fly (Non-Stop) from Wellington to Christchurch with Jetstar (50min) and save with Qantas Explorer.