Welcome to my New Zealand Self-Drive 2024!
Since I started traveling, New Zealand has always been on my bucket list. This year is the perfect time to explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of New Zealand on my terms. Imagine navigating winding coastal roads, stopping at hidden beaches, and discovering local cafes at my own pace. A self-drive holiday offers ultimate freedom, letting me immerse myself fully in each destination.
From New Zealand’s North Island’s vibrant cityscape to the South Island’s majestic mountains, the scenery changes dramatically across each region, making every leg of my journey unique. With well-maintained roads, clear signage, and convenient rest stops, driving through New Zealand was straightforward and enjoyable. Get ready to uncover breathtaking views, friendly local towns, and unforgettable attractions. If you’re craving a flexible adventure, follow me on this New Zealand self-drive holiday in 2024, the journey of a lifetime.
Let’s Go !!!!!!!!
DAY 1
Instead of the usual Red-Eye flight that we usually preferred, we booked the 6 pm flight this time round. We would arrive at Auckland’s International Airport at 9 am.
It was a codeshare flight between Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand. For this leg of the flight, the plane was from Air New Zealand.
Our luggage was tagged and sent to the aircraft.
There was still time, so we went to Jewel for a light meal.
Heading to our Gate.
Boarding the aircraft after a short wait.
The plane took off 30 minutes after boarding.
Dinner was served shortly after. We had the choice of Chicken, Fish, or vegan meals. We ordered the chicken with mashed potatoes and the fish with rice.
The total flight time was about 10 hours. As we approached New Zealand airspace, the sun was rising.
Breakfasts were served.
Shortly after breakfast, we landed at Auckland Airport.
Citizens from these countries can use the E-gate for fast-track immigration. We passed through the gate like a breeze.
Most Car Rental companies are located at the terminal.
For this trip, we chose this local company.
The rental car parking was a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
Airport Express Bus is available to bring you across terminals.
They run at 15-minute intervals.
We did some detailed inspection and recorded all defects in video and photos before accepting it.
As we headed toward our first destination, we noticed that a scene like this would later be a common sight all around New Zealand. They were saying that there are more cows in New Zealand than Humans.
We arrived at Hamilton Town Central after an hour-plus drive.
There is a small Farmer’s Market along the street.
Our first meal in New Zealand was Japanese Udon. LOL.
We saw this Wind Turbine farm but were unable to access it.
So we could only admire it from afar.
When we stopped by the roadside to take pictures of these cows, they came to us instead of running away. Maybe they thought we had food for them.
Our main destination for the day was Bridal Veil Falls at Waireinga.
A short walk on a trail was required.
And we arrived at Bridal Veil Falls, also known as Waireinga Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled near Raglan on New Zealand’s North Island. This stunning 55-meter waterfall cascades gracefully into a serene pool, surrounded by lush native bush and basalt rock formations.
We arrived before sunset and thus got time to visit the Giant Bicycle at Taupo.
Shortly after, we reached our Airbnb.
A fully equipped apartment with an outdoor BBQ area and a Tub.
We came to Lake Taupo to view the sunset. It was beautiful.
There is also a big Love Taupo sign for photo-taking.
Slightly further down the street, we found this McDonald’s with an airplane setup.
Shopping at Pak’n Save Taupo.
And turned them into a simple dinner.
Delicious!!!!!!!!
