[Honeymoon Chronicle] New Zealand's North & South Islands: 14 Days, 2,855 Kilometers, a Self-Drive Adventure Gambling with the Weather
Meta Description: Planning a New Zealand self-drive honeymoon? Our 14-day North & South Islands itinerary covers 2,855 km of epic scenery, practical tips, and weather surprises. Discover how to navigate right-hand driving, save on costs, and embrace the adventure.
Introduction: When the Weather Doesn't Cooperate, the Adventure Begins
As the plane pierced through the clouds, the Southern Hemisphere's sunlight streamed through the window into the cabin. I knew then that this long-awaited honeymoon had finally begun. On November 24, 2018, my husband Benben and I set foot on New Zealand soil, spending 14 days traversing the North and South Islands, driving 2,855 kilometers through late spring and early summer. We experienced what felt like a "failed attempt at summer" but gained an adventure full of delightful surprises.
This New Zealand self-drive honeymoon guide shares everything we learned—from visa tips to car rental strategies, from Hobbiton in the rain to glowworm caves that lit up our hearts. Whether you're planning a New Zealand road trip or simply dreaming of Middle-earth, this itinerary will help you prepare for the unexpected.
Pre-Trip Preparations: The Small but Crucial Details
Visas and Flights: Plan Ahead, Save Money and Worry
We had our visas sorted as early as July—a couple's visa processed through Taobao, valid for five years, issued in just four days, costing 1,193 RMB. For flights, we chose Sichuan Airlines, flying from Beijing to Auckland via Chengdu. Round-trip tickets for two cost only 3,820 RMB. The planes were painted with adorable panda motifs, adding a touch of anticipation to the long-haul journey.
Pro tip: Book your New Zealand visa well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The five-year multiple-entry visa is excellent value for future trips.
Currency and Budget: Don't Bring Too Much Cash
We exchanged 1,500 New Zealand dollars, waiting until the exchange rate climbed from 4.5 to 4.8 before making the move. But after 14 days, we still hadn't used up all the cash. Supermarkets, restaurants, and gas stations all accept cards; cash was mainly needed for small shops and emergencies. Our total per-person expenditure was around 25,000 RMB, covering flights, accommodation, car rental, activities, and everything else.
Budget breakdown: - Flights: 3,820 RMB for two (round-trip) - Car rental (North Island): 538 RMB for 2 days - Car rental (South Island): 4,371 RMB for 10 days (with full insurance) - Total per person: ~25,000 RMB
Car Rental Strategy: Renting Separately for Each Island Offers More Flexibility
For the North Island, we rented a RAV4 for two days through Ctrip, costing 538 RMB. For the South Island loop over ten days, we booked through Zuzuche (a car rental platform), including full insurance, for 4,371 RMB. Both cars were in excellent condition, though the South Island rental was slightly pricier.
Key things to note: Driving on the right-hand side takes getting used to, especially on mountain curves and roundabouts. Practice in a quiet area before hitting the main roads. [Link: New Zealand driving tips for first-timers]
Other Practical Tips
- SIM Cards: We bought two different brands on Taobao, but both lost signal in remote areas—New Zealand truly lives up to its reputation as a "primitive rural paradise." Consider buying a local SIM upon arrival for better coverage.
- Fueling: Two types: semi-self-service and full self-service. For semi-self-service, you fill up, remember the pump number, and pay at the counter. For full self-service, you pay by card at the pump. 91-octane gasoline prices ranged between 1.99 and 2.27 New Zealand dollars.
- Supermarkets: Countdown is the largest and most comprehensive; New World has good quality; Pak'n Save is the cheapest, with warehouse-style displays that make you want to buy everything. It's worth comparing prices—supermarkets in small towns are usually cheaper than those near popular attractions.
- Time Difference: Five hours ahead of Beijing. In the North Island, it gets dark around 8 PM; in the South Island, darkness doesn't fall until about 9:30 PM.
North Island: The Rain and Romance of Middle-earth
Day 1: Crossing 12,000 Kilometers into the Southern Hemisphere
Late November in Beijing was already deep autumn, but we were about to fly into New Zealand's late spring and early summer. We carried two 24-inch suitcases, one backpack, and a black sports duffel bag. Since we needed clothes for three seasons and had a stopover in Australia, clothing alone filled an entire suitcase, weighing 14 kilograms.
Flying over the Philippines, we looked down at the azure sea and immediately set a goal: visit the Philippines within the next two years! As we crossed Australia, we even spotted the Great Barrier Reef—islands of various shapes scattered like pendants across the deep blue ocean. Even through the small window, it was impossible to look away.
Sichuan Airlines' in-flight meals were surprisingly good. The flight attendants walked around with jars of Lao Gan Ma chili sauce, asking if we wanted any. After the meal, there were panda-shaped red bean buns—sweet and delicious. I asked for seconds and still couldn't get enough.
We landed in Auckland at 7 PM local time and checked into the Naumi Hotel near the airport, convenient for picking up the rental car the next day. We took the yellow bus from the airport, costing 6 New Zealand dollars per person. At 9 PM, starving, we tried to find steak, only to discover that both supermarkets and restaurants had already closed. On the way back to the hotel, we saw crowds of snails crossing the road, some already crushed by car tires—this was my first impression of New Zealand: nature and humans living so closely together.
Day 2: Immersed in Middle-earth, Experiencing Hobbiton in the Rain
The next morning, I pulled back the curtains to find continuous rain. My spirits plummeted—it was supposed to be late spring and early summer! What kind of weather was this? I later learned that Mercury was in retrograde during this period. Next time, I'll definitely check the astrological forecast before traveling.
At 8 AM, the rental company's representative picked us up. The white RAV4 was brand new. Benben sat in the driver's seat, both excited and nervous, and had to reverse out in the light rain. Within half an hour, he was already demonstrating his right-hand-drive driving skills in full force.
Our first stop was Papakura, a small town very close to Auckland. The breakfast places were already closed, and the lunch spots weren't open yet, so we headed to Countdown supermarket to stock up. We bought milk, snacks, and yellow kiwifruit. New Zealand milk is sold in containers as big as laundry detergent. A pack of granola bars cost 2 New Zealand dollars—no artificial additives, full of cheese flavor, and very filling.
Following TripAdvisor recommendations, we had lunch at Red Earth Eatery and Wine Bar. The fries were astonishingly large, and the dipping sauce was so fragrant it moved us.
By 3:30 PM, we arrived at the Hobbiton movie set in Matamata. After exchanging our tickets at the Shire's Rest Café, we boarded a tour bus to enter. Hobbiton in the rain felt even more dreamlike—on the green hillsides, sheep dotted the landscape like dandruff scattered by the gods. I'm not a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan, but I was still captivated by this idyllic, otherworldly little place.
That evening, we stayed in Cambridge—turns out there's a Cambridge in New Zealand too, just as elegant as the one in England. In the twilight, the quiet streets were nearly empty. At OYNX restaurant, we had our first steak of the trip: Benben's ribeye came with prawns, green beans, and a potato cake, costing 38 New Zealand dollars—great value. My T-bone steak was medium-well, tender and juicy, with rich sauce, served with salad and fries. That meal was absolutely stunning.
That night's accommodation was a standalone cottage. The landlady, an IELTS examiner, greeted us barefoot and told us to just come in—the whole place had carpet. From that point on, at every subsequent homestay, we automatically left our shoes at the door and walked barefoot indoors.
Day 3: Light Illuminating Light—The Wonder of the Glowworm Caves
Early the next morning, the landlady left for work, leaving a note telling us to make ourselves at home. Warm sunlight streamed in, a stark contrast to the previous days of rain.
Photography wasn't allowed inside the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, but the awe of seeing glowworms for the first time remains unforgettable. In the dim darkness of the cave, the faint light emitted by the glowworms twinkled like stars, reminding me of something a debater once said: "Light illuminates light; light attracts light." Even the weakest glow can gather into a powerful force.
On the way back, we stopped at Hamilton Gardens, where Liu Shishi (a famous Chinese actress) took her wedding photos. It's free to enter. The garden is divided into many themed sections, each representing a different culture or era—a peaceful, photogenic spot perfect for a romantic afternoon.
South Island: The Grand Loop of Epic Landscapes
(Note: The source article continues with South Island adventures. For this SEO-optimized version, we've condensed the key highlights and practical advice.)
Driving the South Island Loop: A 10-Day Road Trip Through Paradise
The South Island is where New Zealand's most dramatic scenery unfolds. From the turquoise lakes of Wanaka to the rugged peaks of Mount Cook, from the fjords of Milford Sound to the penguin colonies of the Otago Peninsula, every day brings a new wonder.
Key stops on our South Island self-drive itinerary: - Christchurch: Start your journey in the Garden City, still rebuilding after the 2011 earthquake - Lake Tekapo: The Church of the Good Shepherd and the stunning turquoise lake - Mount Cook National Park: New Zealand's highest peak and incredible hiking trails - Wanaka: That famous tree in the lake, plus world-class skiing in winter - Queenstown: The adventure capital of the world—bungee jumping, jet boating, and more - Milford Sound: A cruise through one of the world's most beautiful fjords - Dunedin: Scottish heritage, wildlife, and the world's steepest street
Pro tip: Book your Milford Sound cruise and other popular activities in advance, especially during peak season (December–February). [Link: Best time to visit New Zealand for weather and crowds]
FAQ: Your New Zealand Self-Drive Honeymoon Questions Answered
1. How many days do I need for a New Zealand road trip covering both islands?
We recommend at least 14 days for a comfortable pace. Our itinerary covered 2,855 kilometers in exactly 14 days, which felt busy but doable. If you have more time, 18–21 days allows for deeper exploration and more flexibility.
2. Is it safe to drive in New Zealand as a first-time right-hand driver?
Yes, but take it slow. Practice in quiet areas before tackling mountain roads. Key tips: remember to stay left, use roundabouts correctly, and watch for one-lane bridges. Most rental cars are automatic, which makes the transition easier.
3. How much does a New Zealand honeymoon cost?
Our total per-person expenditure was around 25,000 RMB (approximately US$3,500), including flights, accommodation, car rental, activities, and meals. Costs can vary significantly based on season, accommodation choices, and activities booked.
4. What should I pack for a New Zealand trip in late spring/early summer?
Pack for three seasons: layers are essential. Include a waterproof jacket, warm fleece, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (the UV is intense), and a swimsuit for thermal pools. Don't forget your camera—the landscapes are breathtaking.
5. Can I use my mobile phone in New Zealand?
We bought SIM cards on Taobao, but coverage was poor in remote areas. Consider buying a local SIM from Spark, Vodafone, or 2degrees upon arrival for better coverage. Alternatively, download offline maps before your trip.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Unexpected
Our New Zealand self-drive honeymoon taught us that the best adventures often come when plans don't go perfectly. The rain at Hobbiton made it more magical. The "failed summer" gave us dramatic skies and fewer crowds. And the 2,855 kilometers of driving revealed landscapes we'll never forget.
If you're planning your own New Zealand honeymoon, remember: the weather is a gamble, but the experience is a guaranteed win. Pack your sense of adventure, leave room for spontaneity, and prepare to fall in love with Aotearoa.
Ready to plan your own New Zealand road trip? Start with our [New Zealand itinerary planner] and [car rental comparison guide]. Your Middle-earth adventure awaits.
Have you done a New Zealand self-drive trip? Share your tips and questions in the comments below!
