The Scenic Queenstown to Auckland Tour (Part I)

Queenstown is a resort town located at the edge of Lake Wakatipu with a stunning backdrop of mountain ranges called the Remarkables. Follow the Queenstown Hill Time Walk that goes up to the summit of Te Tapunui for a great view of the township or take the famous Skyline Gondola that will take you up at Bob's Peak to enjoy Maori performances, stargazing tour and Luge cart rides. If you're traveling in Winter, make sure not to miss The Remarkables Ski Field.

Upon arriving in Cromwell, head over to the i-Site Visitor Centre which also features the Cromwell Museum. Learn about the area's history through its exhibits and memorabilias. If you're ready to experience the old town, proceed to the Old Cromwell Town Heritage Precinct located at the end of Melmore Terrace. Stroll along the historic precinct, then visit local botique shops and galleries. Finally, try gold panning in Goldfields Mining Centre or go trout fishing at Lake Dunstan. 

Start your day visiting The Larnach Castle,  New Zealand's only castle located few minutes away from the city centre. Learn about the castle's history or explore the Lanarch garden, which earned a title as a Garden of International Significance. When you get back at the city, stop by the famous Dunedin Railway Station and be amazed of its Edwardian architecture. Looking for something unusual? try walking at Baldwin Street, recognized by the Guiness Book of Records as the world's steepest street.

Dunedin has some of the best beaches in New Zealand. Head over to the white sandy beach of St Clair or explore the sandstone cliffs of Tunnel Beach. Kids will love the Dinosaur Park at St Kilda Beach or a tour at the Cadbury World. Don't miss joining the Hair Raiser Tour,  listen to ghost stories and experience Dunedin's haunted areas.

Continue to follow Highway 1 to the coastal town of Oamaru, featuring some of New Zealand's best  19th century architectures. Start your day exploring the Historic Precincts that boast of its Victorian steetscape with historic buildings, museums and victorian pubs. Then head over to the nearby Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony that features the smallest penguin in the world. It is located just beyond the Historic Precint, making it accessible for a short DIY (do-it-yourself) walking tour. 

Start your second day with a relaxing stroll along the Oamaru Public Garden. Then take a train ride via the Oamaru Steam& Rail that will take you back in time as the train runs along some of Oamaru's historic district. Just before dusk, follow the Bushy Beach Track to view the shy yellow-eyed penguins as they come ashore to feed their youngsters. Remember, these penguins are extremely shy, so make sure to stay off the beach.  If you're not yet beaten out, you can end your day with a good show at Oamaru Opera House.

Visit the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre and experience authentic Maori culture through a collection of rock art and exhibits. Then head over to Timaru's Botanic Garden which feature a rose garden, aviary, children's playground and numerous collections of plants. Finally, end your day with a trip to the Kiwi Observatory. Watch the night sky through a telescope or learn how to use one.