A seven day city break in New Zealand
Auckland - Wellington - Christchurch
With crystal-clear lakes, towering snow-capped mountains and rolling green fields, New Zealand’s beauty is well renowned. Dotted across its two islands, you’ll also find bustling cities thriving with rich culture, culinary delights and exhilarating activities waiting to be explored.
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
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Important information
Disclaimer: # Qantas Explorer fares must be booked in conjunction with a Qantas international fare to Australia or New Zealand, and have the same validity as your international ticket. Savings are based on a comparison with the year-round fare. At times, there may be sale fares available that may be cheaper than the Qantas Explorer fare for that routing. To include Qantas Explorer fares for your trip to Australia or New Zealand, you can choose the multi-city option when making your booking.
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