What It's Like to Spend 5 Weeks in New Zealand
New Zealand is one of those places where you could spend months exploring and still feel like you haven't seen enough. During my 5 week trip, most people I met were either the "quit my job to travel" types or on a shorter 2 week holiday. So what was it like to have 5 weeks in New Zealand and know that there was a definite end?
It took a lot of planning.
I've never planned so much for a trip than I did for New Zealand. Five weeks is an awkward time period where you almost have enough time to sufficiently visit both islands. But then you're afraid of missing out on must-do spots in each island. We carefully crafted an itinerary with lots of wiggle room so we could be spontaneous too. In the end, we were ok with the fact that we were going to skip Hobbiton, bungee jumping in Queenstown, and the Milford Track.
It was jaw dropping at every turn.
From diving in the Poor Knights Islands to the Mueller Hut hike, every adventure was not only beautiful but uniquely Kiwi. It was one of those places where I felt like I couldn't see anything similar back in the States. A short list of my personal must-do experiences in New Zealand include:
- Dive at the Poor Knights Islands
- Relax at Mount Maunganui
- Go on a White Island Volcano Tour
- Go fly-fishing in Taupo
- Hike the Tongariro Crossing
- Visit Wellington
- Hang out in the Lake Tekapo Region
- Swim with Seals in Kaikoura
- Go wine tasting in Blenheim
- Go kayaking and overnight hiking in Abel Tasman
- Sleep under the stars in Wanaka
- Go tramping on the Routeburn Track
It was at times, tiring.
Being somewhere for 5 weeks means that we were on the road every few days or so. After the first 2 weeks, we realized we needed to take some down time. We set aside chore days where we did laundry, worked out, cooked dinner, and watched a lot of Netflix. These chore days were conveniently set for when it was pouring rain (yes even in the middle of January!) Our bodies would be refreshed and ready to go the next morning after some R&R.
It was an unforgettable experience and I can't wait to go back
At the end of our 5 weeks, I felt a strong connection with New Zealand that I hadn't felt with other countries that I have visited. Sure we did a lot of the main touristy activities, but we chilled, drank coffee, and did almost nothing for many days too. I was beginning to feel more like a resident of New Zealand than a vacationer, and then it was time for me to go home. I wonder what it would be like to be one of those backpackers who ends up staying in New Zealand for an infinite amount of time. For me, I was really happy to go home and get back in my routine. But every now and then between my Powerpoint slides and business memo emails, I'll stop and think about the greatest 5 weeks I've ever had in New Zealand.
P.S. if you need itinerary suggestions, feel free to PM me.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Do you love the outdoors?
Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.
