3 day itinerary for New Zealand

Itinerary

New Zealand is a stunning destination, and I’m excited to help you plan a fabulous 3-day itinerary that’s perfect for a solo female traveler. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore Auckland

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a cozy café in the heart of Auckland. Try a flat white (a local coffee favorite) and some fresh avocado toast.
• Sky Tower: After breakfast, head to the iconic Sky Tower. You can take the elevator up for breathtaking views of the city and beyond. It’s a great way to get your bearings!

Afternoon:

• Auckland Art Gallery: Spend some time exploring the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. It’s a beautiful space with a fantastic collection of New Zealand and international art.
• Lunch at Britomart: Head to the Britomart area for lunch. There are plenty of eateries to choose from, offering everything from sushi to gourmet burgers.

Evening:

• Viaduct Harbour: Stroll along the Viaduct Harbour, where you can enjoy the waterfront views. There are many restaurants here if you’d like to have dinner with a view.
• Optional Evening Activity: If you’re up for it, consider a sunset cruise on the harbor. It’s a lovely way to end your first day!

## Day 2: Day Trip to Rotorua

Morning:

• Early Start: Grab a quick breakfast and catch a bus or drive to Rotorua (about a 3-hour journey). The scenery along the way is beautiful!
• Te Puia: Once in Rotorua, visit Te Puia, where you can see geysers, mud pools, and learn about Māori culture. It’s a fascinating place!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch at a local café. Try some traditional Māori hangi if you can!
• Redwoods Treewalk: After lunch, take a walk through the stunning Redwoods Forest. The treewalk is a series of suspension bridges high above the ground, offering a unique perspective of the towering trees.

Evening:

• Relaxing Spa: Treat yourself to a soak in the famous geothermal hot springs at the Polynesian Spa. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Rotorua has a vibrant dining scene, so you’ll have plenty of options!

## Day 3: Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

Morning:

• Hobbiton Movie Set: After breakfast, head to Hobbiton (about a 1-hour drive from Rotorua). Take a guided tour of the movie set, and immerse yourself in the magical world of The Lord of the Rings. Don’t forget to snap some photos at the iconic hobbit holes!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Green Dragon Inn: Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Green Dragon Inn, where you can savor a pint of specially brewed cider or ale.
• Waitomo Caves: After lunch, make your way to the Waitomo Caves (about a 1-hour drive). Take a guided tour to see the stunning glowworm caves. The boat ride through the caves is truly enchanting!

Evening:

• Return to Auckland: Head back to Auckland (about a 2-hour drive). If you have time, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant of your choice.
• Reflect on Your Adventure: Take a moment to reflect on your amazing trip and perhaps jot down some memories in a travel journal.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Stay Safe: Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring new areas.
• Connect with Locals: New Zealanders are known for their friendliness. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation!
• Transportation: Consider using public transport or joining guided tours, which can be a great way to meet fellow travelers.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful time in New Zealand! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor it even more for you. Safe travels! 🌏✈️