17 days in Auckland & Christchurch Itinerary

The largest and most populous city in New Zealand, Auckland combines a rich history and thriving contemporary culture in an abundance of museums, art galleries, and performance venues.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Nikau Cave and Tawharanui Regional Park. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Auckland: Warkworth (Goat Island Marine Reserve & Parry Kauri Park), Matakana (Matakana Beach Outfitters & Matakana War Memorial) and Muriwai Gannet Colony (in Muriwai Beach). The adventure continues: don't miss a visit to SkyTower, enjoy the thrill of live dance at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, stroll around Mount Victoria Reserve, and admire the natural beauty at Auckland Botanic Gardens.

To see ratings, reviews, photos, and tourist information, read Auckland tour itinerary builder app.

If you are flying in from United States, the closest major aiports are Auckland International Airport and Hamilton International Airport. Expect a daytime high around 64°F in December, and nighttime lows around 64°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 27th (Fri) so you can travel to Christchurch.

Recovering from the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 was no easy task, but Christchurch has faced the challenges with aplomb.

You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Kayaking & Canoeing and Margaret Mahy Family Playground. Explore Christchurch's surroundings by going to Arts in Oxford (in Oxford), Akaroa (Dolphin & Whale Watching & Saint Peter's Anglican Church) and Geraldine (Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum & Geraldine Observatory). Next up on the itinerary: take in nature's colorful creations at Christchurch Botanic Gardens, get the lay of the land with Walking tours, take an in-depth tour of Canterbury Museum, and steep yourself in history at Taylors Mistake - Awaroa / Godley Head Walk.

To see more things to do and tourist information, use the Christchurch online trip maker.

Getting from Auckland to Christchurch by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: do a combination of bus and ferry; or do a combination of train and ferry. When traveling from Auckland in December, plan for a bit warmer days and little chillier nights in Christchurch: temperatures range from 70°F by day to 51°F at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 5th (Sun) to allow time to travel back home.