What comes to your mind when I mention New Zealand? Is it the juicy and delicious medium-rare steak? The creamy milk that leaves you wanting more? Or perhaps the high-quality cheese that’s a major export? Haha, all of those are absolutely true! New Zealand’s dairy products are renowned not just in Asia but all over the world. But there’s so much more to enjoy in New Zealand than just its food. Want to know more? Read my story here to the end! đ
A Country That Will Always Be in My Heart
I still remember my trip to New Zealand a few years ago. As the plane was about to land in Auckland, I was greeted by a brilliantly clear blue sky and air so clean it felt like a treat for my lungs. New Zealand is one of the top 10 countries with low pollution levels. Pure New Zealandâmy asthma practically disappeared! đ During my two-week adventure in the Land of the Kiwi, I experienced so many memorable moments that left a lasting impression on my heart. Here are my must-see and must-do activities in New Zealand:
Museum and Gallery Tours
For museum enthusiasts, New Zealand is a perfect destination. I made sure to visit two museums during my adventure there.
- War Memorial Museum
Perched on a hill, this four-story museum is massive. Itâs one of New Zealandâs historical landmarks, primarily serving as a tribute to those who fell during the world wars. The museum also houses collections of English artifacts, traditional Maori houses, and even dinosaur skeletons. I vividly remember feeling transported back to prehistoric times as I snapped photos of those skeletons. - Rotorua Museum of Art and History
This is another must-visit spot. I promise, you wonât regret stopping by!
Adrenaline Rush in Taupo: Bungee Jumping
Did you know that the worldâs first organized bungee jump took place in New Zealand? Yes, itâs a 47-meter leap! Itâs not just a heart-pumping experienceâitâs also a feast for the eyes, as youâll enjoy the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the Waikato River before you jump. Truly breathtaking!
Spectacular Natural Scenery
When it comes to natural attractions, New Zealand has no end. The country is divided into two main islands:
- North Island offers geothermal wonders, lakes, and volcanoes.
- South Island is ideal for those who love cooler climates, with stunning glaciers, vast plains, and winding rivers.
Want both? Of course, you can! Thatâs the ultimate way to make your trip perfect.
One of my favorite views even became my Facebook profile picture for months. Haha. Besides bungee jumping, other adventure activities like zorbing, jet boating, zip-lining, skydiving, caving, and heli-biking are great options to consider.
A Unique Culture
Have you ever heard of the Maori culture? The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, famous for their exotic art. Itâs incredibly fascinating! My curiosity about their culture was fully satisfied during my exploration.
I was particularly captivated by the Maori traditional houses, which reminded me of traditional houses in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Surprising, isnât it? Haha. Not only are their houses unique, but even some of their words are similar to ours! My driver during the road trip, Brian, mentioned that the Maori word for âtwoâ is rua, for âfiveâ is rima, and their word for âhouseâ is humaâjust like in Batak language! Coincidence, or are we distant relatives of the Maori? đ
A Wonderful Road Trip from Auckland to Wellington
If youâre visiting New Zealand, one thing you absolutely must do is a road trip! There are many ways to explore NZâyou can fly, take ferries, or join bus tours. But for me, a road trip, whether by bus or driving yourself (yes, if you have an international driverâs license, you can rent a car and hit the road!), is the way to go. Why? Because the scenery along the way from Auckland to Wellington is simply breathtaking!
Did you know that only 5% of New Zealand’s population are humans, while the rest are animals? So donât be surprised if the road is lined with lush green fields teeming with sheep and cows. Add to that the billowing white clouds that feel like theyâre painted across the skyâitâs like stepping into a Windows 2003 desktop wallpaper! Haha. The crystal-clear blue skies transported me to a serene and nostalgic time. I vividly remember shedding tears a few times, overwhelmed by the spectacular views and a mix of happiness, awe, and gratitude. Itâs hard to put the joy of a road trip into words, but itâs an experience worth repeating.
Smooth Roads, Clear Signs, and Friendly People
The roads in New Zealand are incredibly smooth, and the traffic signs are clear and plentiful. On top of that, the locals are exceptionally friendly. I remember getting lost once in the heart of Auckland. Thinking I could read a map, I ended up turning it over multiple times, trying to figure out my route. My confused face must have been obvious because a kind gentleman stopped and asked, âAre you lost? Where do you want to go?â
Long story short, I reached my destination thanks to his help. He even wished me a safe trip and told me to enjoy New Zealand. How kind! I felt welcomed and safe, even as a visitor in a foreign country.
New Zealandersâ friendliness is top-notch. Despite their Western culture, theyâre always happy to greet you with a smile or a friendly “Good morning” or “Good evening,” especially when youâre out looking for food. Itâs heartwarming!
Inspiration for a Novel
My road trip left such a lasting impression that I featured New Zealand as the backdrop for my first romance novel, published in 2023. The novel, Labirin Rasa, included Taupo as a key setting. Some readers even commented that they felt inspired to visit Taupo after reading it!
Looking back, I have to agree with Ernest Hemingwayâtraveling is what truly matters. It meant so much to me that I immortalized it in my book.
Three Must-Do Activities
Here are my top three recommendations for things to do in New Zealand:
- Ride the Gondola for stunning views.
- Trek at Huka Falls for a dose of adventure.
- Admire Auckland from the 328m-high Sky Tower.
Trust me, itâll be hard to move on from the beauty of these experiences. Haha.
Honestly, Iâm missing New Zealand so much right now. Iâm itching to write another novel set there. Imagine a love story where someone slips on an icy mountain in the South Island, sparking a romance between an Indonesian traveler and a Maori native, with a love triangle thrown in for extra drama. The setting and characters would be even more convincing if I could visit the Kiwi Land again. Fingers crossed that I get the chance!
So, have I convinced you to plan your own road trip in New Zealand?