New Zealand
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15 GREAT Things to Do in Taupo, New Zealand
If you’re looking for a peaceful, laidback town near water and outdoor activities, then Taupo is the place for you. Known to be a popular Kiwi retirement area, Taupo offers an unhurried pace and tranquil ambiance, making it ideal for visitors seeking a slower way of life. The nightlife may not be the most popping, but the town compensates with a plethora of outdoor activities, friendly people, and great scenery. It’s close to some of the most famous attractions in New Zealand, including the coolest McDonald’s in the world! If this town sounds right for you, then here are some amazing things to do in Taupo, New Zealand that you…
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18 Exciting Things to Do in Rotorua New Zealand + Tips
Rotorua has many names. Sulphur City, for its famous geothermal activity and maybe more infamous rotten egg smell that permeates the air. In a similar thread, Rotten-rua, alluding to the smell of rotten eggs (that you can’t escape from). RotoVegas, referring to the touristy nature of the city in the middle of nowhere. But, most importantly, in Māori, Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe, or the second great lake of Kahumatamomoe. Rotorua is a Māori word that means “Second Lake”, where roto means lake and rua means two. No wonder why Rotorua attracts a lot of visitors! The city alone attracts 3.5 million visitors annually. It’s known for its natural wonders, cultural experiences, and…
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You Need to Visit These Amazing Aesthetic Auckland Cafes
Cafes are sought after in all cities globally, big or small, and it makes sense! The act of enjoying a nice beverage in a nicely decorated interior chatting with friends or enjoying by yourself is a great feeling. And you’ll find the same in Auckland. New Zealanders, known for their warm hospitality, have got their cafe culture on lock. You’ll find a damn good cup of coffee. But finding worthy cafes can be time-consuming, especially if you’re on a tight timeline. Luckily, spending 2 weeks in Auckland gave me a lot of time to try a lot of them! So if you like good coffee, aesthetic design, good brunch food,…
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Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Day Auckland Itinerary With Helpful Tips for You
The running joke from anyone from Oceania or who has visited New Zealand is that you should spend 0 days in Auckland. If you think I’m joking, a Google search of things to do in Auckland leads to Redditors saying “leave”. And in response to how many days to spend in Auckland, they’ll say zero. And after spending one day in Auckland as a tourist, I get why they said it. I wouldn’t recommend visiting only Auckland in New Zealand—that would be a waste! But, if you’re coming to visit multiple parts of New Zealand, including Auckland, then this is for you. I’ll share how to make the best of…
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Where to Stay in Auckland for The Best Trip
So, you’re visiting Auckland and wondering where to stay? It’s difficult to know where to stay in a place you’ve never been before. If only we had the power to get a trial period in accommodations beforehand. Maybe in the distant future, haha. But until then, we have the internet and bloggers (and maybe friends or family) to help you decide where to stay in Auckland. However, articles about where to stay can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you want. And I wholeheartedly believe where you decide to stay has a huge impact on your travel experience. So, this guide will have you reflect on what you…
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Here are the Must See Things to Do in North Island of New Zealand
When you envision the North Island of New Zealand, you probably think of these stereotypes: lush green landscapes dotted with sheep, picturesque rolling hills, and, perhaps, a Hobbit or two. While these notions capture elements of the island, there is more to it than what meets the eye. The North Island isn’t just a postcard-perfect destination, it’s also filled with natural wonders, cultural richness, and adventure waiting to be explored. After a month long trip through the North Island, I delve into the must-see attractions, exciting activities, and unique experiences that make the North Island a destination beyond imagination. You’ll come back from your trip reminiscing constantly, and having the…
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15 Best Things to Do in Wellington + Practical Tips
Wellington’s Star-Studded Charm Did you know that the soulful Ed Sheeran calls Wellington home? He describes Wellington as nothing short of amazing. He says he “loves living in Wellington so much. It feels like a small town even though it is a city.” But he’s not the only celebrity drawn to the magnetic charm of this city; others, too, have found a haven in Wellington’s embrace. So, there must be some amazing things to do in Wellington, New Zealand! Yet, Wellington’s fame isn’t the sole magnet for celebrities; it extends beyond the glitz and glamour. Nestled in the embrace of the “Coolest Little Capital,” Wellington draws visitors with its captivating…
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How to Take Auckland Public Transport as a Tourist
Imagine stepping off a plane, ready to explore the captivating city of Auckland, New Zealand. The excitement is palpable, but as you glance at the rows of waiting Ubers, a pragmatic concern settles in–how can you make your way through this vibrant city without burning a hole in your pocket? The answer: Auckland public transport. In this guide, I take you through Auckland’s public transportation system, providing you with the knowledge to navigate the city effortlessly and economically. Auckland, a bustling metropolis known for its diverse tapestry of cultures and activities, is made all the more accessible through its robust public transport network. I love taking public transport—it is cheaper…
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Tiritiri Matangi Day Trip: New Zealand Bird Island Sanctuary
Visit the one place with an abundance of native New Zealand plants and rare birds that you can’t see anywhere else! Tiritiri Matangi is a hidden gem off the coast of Auckland that makes a great day trip. Immerse yourself in nature, where you’ll hear birdsong with every step and untouched wilderness that will make you feel like you’re exploring a newly discovered island. Even if you’re not a birdwatcher or nature fanatic, everyone can benefit from visiting this open sanctuary that helps preserve New Zealand’s incredible biodiversity. So, what is Tiritiri Matangi? What is Tiritiri Matangi Island? Tiritiri Matangi Island is a pest-free wildlife sanctuary three kilometers northwest of…
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15 Things to Do in Auckland: Make the Most Out of Your Trip
It’s a running Kiwi joke that the best thing to do in Auckland is to leave. Auckland’s reputation as a sleepy town is well known, but if you put that stereotype aside, you’ll discover cool activities to do. To be completely honest, I did struggle to find things to do in Auckland during the two weeks I spent there. However, because I had so much time on my hands, I tried it all and can share my recommendations on what to do in Auckland. First, I would not spend that long in Auckland, haha. But if you have a couple of days in Auckland, I guarantee you’ll explore all it…