Hey everyone!
Can you believe it’s already been a month since my last post here?
Time really flies, somehow it’s already end of April and the first quarter of 2025 has come and gone!
I hope you’re all doing well and that the year has been treating you kindly so far.
It honestly feels like forever since I last updated my travel blog.
Ever since I started sharing more actively on XiaoHongShu (XHS), I’ve been pouring a lot of my travel content over there, everything from hotel reviews and trip itineraries to food adventures and must-visit spots.
If you’ve been following along, you might have caught my recent posts about Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Vietnam, there’s been quite a bit to share!
If you’re curious and want to see more detailed updates, definitely check out my XHS page https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5fb724510000000001002d80.
I’d love to have you join me over there too.
But for today, let’s get back to where it all started, my journey to New Zealand.
I figured it’s finally time to wrap up my New Zealand travel series.
Can you believe it’s been almost a year since that trip? Time really does slip away...lol
Thank you so much for sticking around and being a part of this journey with me.
And yes, I have to finish this post because… guess what? Another road trip is just around the corner—I'm heading to the UK next month!
Can you believe it’s already been a month since my last post here?
Time really flies, somehow it’s already end of April and the first quarter of 2025 has come and gone!
I hope you’re all doing well and that the year has been treating you kindly so far.
It honestly feels like forever since I last updated my travel blog.
Ever since I started sharing more actively on XiaoHongShu (XHS), I’ve been pouring a lot of my travel content over there, everything from hotel reviews and trip itineraries to food adventures and must-visit spots.
If you’ve been following along, you might have caught my recent posts about Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Vietnam, there’s been quite a bit to share!
If you’re curious and want to see more detailed updates, definitely check out my XHS page https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5fb724510000000001002d80.
I’d love to have you join me over there too.
But for today, let’s get back to where it all started, my journey to New Zealand.
I figured it’s finally time to wrap up my New Zealand travel series.
Can you believe it’s been almost a year since that trip? Time really does slip away...lol
Thank you so much for sticking around and being a part of this journey with me.
And yes, I have to finish this post because… guess what? Another road trip is just around the corner—I'm heading to the UK next month!
I believe it's going to be another fun road trip—probably the most exciting one of the year.
I seriously can't wait!
But before that, I just need to wrap up the final chapter of my New Zealand adventure! :)
I seriously can't wait!
But before that, I just need to wrap up the final chapter of my New Zealand adventure! :)
From Queenstown to Auckland
We kicked off the day bright and early with a morning flight from Queenstown to Auckland, flying with Jetstar.
It was a direct, non-stop flight that took around two hours, just enough time to relax a little without feeling like we spent the whole day in transit.
The flight itself was smooth and comfortable.
We had clear skies for most of the journey, so we were treated to some beautiful aerial views, especially during takeoff over Queenstown’s stunning landscapes.
Before we knew it, we were already descending into Auckland, ready to begin the final leg of our New Zealand adventure.
The flight itself was smooth and comfortable.
We had clear skies for most of the journey, so we were treated to some beautiful aerial views, especially during takeoff over Queenstown’s stunning landscapes.
Before we knew it, we were already descending into Auckland, ready to begin the final leg of our New Zealand adventure.
Rent the Car with Kiwi Car Hire
Since we wanted to keep things budget-friendly during our time in Auckland, we decided to go for a more economical option when it came to transportation.
After doing a bit of research, we came across Kiwi Car Hire, a local rental service with high ratings and lots of positive reviews from previous customers. Their rates were noticeably cheaper compared to some of the bigger rental companies, so we thought why not give it a try?
And honestly, it turned out to be a great decision. The service was smooth from start to finish. The staff were super friendly and helpful, and the whole process was quick and efficient. They also offered a complimentary airport pickup and took us straight to their office to collect the car, super convenient after an early morning flight.
We rented an 8-seater Kia vehicle for just NZD 325 (around RM823) for 5 days, which was a steal for the size and convenience.
The car itself wasn’t brand new or sparkling clean, but it was in decent condition and perfectly fine for our short road trip around Auckland. For a budget option, we had no complaints at all, it got us everywhere we needed to go comfortably.
After doing a bit of research, we came across Kiwi Car Hire, a local rental service with high ratings and lots of positive reviews from previous customers. Their rates were noticeably cheaper compared to some of the bigger rental companies, so we thought why not give it a try?
And honestly, it turned out to be a great decision. The service was smooth from start to finish. The staff were super friendly and helpful, and the whole process was quick and efficient. They also offered a complimentary airport pickup and took us straight to their office to collect the car, super convenient after an early morning flight.
We rented an 8-seater Kia vehicle for just NZD 325 (around RM823) for 5 days, which was a steal for the size and convenience.
The car itself wasn’t brand new or sparkling clean, but it was in decent condition and perfectly fine for our short road trip around Auckland. For a budget option, we had no complaints at all, it got us everywhere we needed to go comfortably.
Where We Stay in Auckland
For our stay in Auckland, we booked an Airbnb nestled in the quiet seaside suburb of Lynfield, which is about a 25-minute drive from the Auckland CBD.
It’s a peaceful residential area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and honestly, it was such a lovely spot to come back to after a day of exploring.
The house itself was spacious and spread over two floors, offering plenty of room for everyone to relax and unwind.
One of the main reasons I chose this place was because the living room opened up to beautiful sea views, I just knew my parents would really appreciate being able to enjoy their morning coffee while taking in the calming scenery.
And I was right, it became one of their favorite spots in the house.
Inside, the home had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. There were three bedrooms and two bathrooms, which worked perfectly for our group.
The kitchen was fully equipped with all the essentials, so we could cook simple meals whenever we felt like staying in. There was even a laundry area, which came in super handy, especially during a longer trip.
We also loved that there was space to walk around both at the front and back of the house, perfect for some fresh air or a quiet moment outdoors.
It felt more like a home than just a place to sleep, and that really made our Auckland stay even more special.
Day 2: Ponsonby - Dress Smart Outlet Shopping
On our second day in Auckland, after getting nicely settled into our Airbnb, we decided to explore one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods—Ponsonby.
Just a short drive from the city center, Ponsonby is a lively, stylish suburb known for its vibrant mix of shopping, food, and art. It has a cool, creative vibe that makes it such a fun place to wander around and soak in the atmosphere.
Just a short drive from the city center, Ponsonby is a lively, stylish suburb known for its vibrant mix of shopping, food, and art. It has a cool, creative vibe that makes it such a fun place to wander around and soak in the atmosphere.
One of the main reasons I was excited to visit Ponsonby was to hunt down a good bagel spot.
As a huge bagel fan (and I mean huge), I always make it a point to try local bagels whenever I travel.
I actually discovered Auckland Bagel Club through XHS, and it had such good reviews that I had to go check it out for myself.
Let’s just say... my dream of tasting every good bagel around the world lives on—haha, I know it sounds dramatic, but that’s how much I love bagels. You can probably feel my desperation through the screen!
I actually discovered Auckland Bagel Club through XHS, and it had such good reviews that I had to go check it out for myself.
Let’s just say... my dream of tasting every good bagel around the world lives on—haha, I know it sounds dramatic, but that’s how much I love bagels. You can probably feel my desperation through the screen!
Auckland Bagel Club is a small, unassuming shop located in a row of shop lots.
It’s cozy and minimalistic, more of a grab-and-go kind of place, but packed with charm.
It’s cozy and minimalistic, more of a grab-and-go kind of place, but packed with charm.
The menu featured a nice variety of bagels, though we arrived a little late in the day, so unfortunately, some of the popular ones were already sold out (always a sign of a good place, right?).
Here’s what we managed to order:
Homemade Pastrami, Pickles, Egg Tartar Sauce, Tomato – NZD16
Truffle Oil & Parmesan Cream Cheese – NZD9
Jalapeño Garlic Cream Cheese – NZD8.50
Boss Chicken Katsu with Avocado, Teriyaki, QP Mayo & Sesame – NZD16
Here’s what we managed to order:
Homemade Pastrami, Pickles, Egg Tartar Sauce, Tomato – NZD16
Truffle Oil & Parmesan Cream Cheese – NZD9
Jalapeño Garlic Cream Cheese – NZD8.50
Boss Chicken Katsu with Avocado, Teriyaki, QP Mayo & Sesame – NZD16
Honestly, I can’t even pick a favorite because they were all so good. The fillings were super generous, packed with flavor, and the bagel bread itself was soft, slightly chewy, just how I like it. Paired with a cup of coffee, it was the perfect brunch combo.
If you're a fellow carb lover or just someone who enjoys a good bite, Auckland Bagel Club is definitely worth a visit. Just go earlier next time to avoid missing out on the full menu!
If you're a fellow carb lover or just someone who enjoys a good bite, Auckland Bagel Club is definitely worth a visit. Just go earlier next time to avoid missing out on the full menu!
After our bagel feast, we continued our leisurely stroll along Ponsonby Road. The street has such a cool, laid-back energy, with chic boutiques, independent bookshops, and adorable little cafés tucked into almost every corner. It’s the kind of place where you can just wander without a plan and still end up discovering something interesting, whether it’s a quirky homeware store, a hidden gallery, or a cozy spot for an afternoon flat white.
The whole vibe of Ponsonby actually reminded me a lot of Fitzroy Street in MelbournE, that same mix of artsy, trendy, and effortlessly cool. It’s got that creative buzz, where fashion meets food meets lifestyle, and everything feels a little bit curated but still authentic. Definitely one of those places where people-watching could be a hobby, especially with all the stylish locals and their pups walking by.
If you enjoy urban exploring with a mix of good food, aesthetic storefronts, and a hint of creative culture, Ponsonby is absolutely the place to be.
If you're into shopping and love a good deal, Dress Smart Outlet Shopping is worth a visit. We first saw it in Queenstown, and were happy to find another location in Auckland too!
The Auckland outlet was surprisingly quiet, which made for a super chill shopping experience. No crowds, no stress, just lots of great deals. They’ve got a nice mix of local and international brands, and we managed to score some solid bargains. If you’ve got extra time in your itinerary, it’s definitely a fun stop for some budget-friendly retail therapy.
That’s all for Catalina Bay, we’re ready to move on to our next destination!
I realized that fish and chips are practically everywhere in New Zealand, so of course, we had to try their local fish—hoki. There are quite a few spots around Devonport, and we ended up finding one by the roadside called Rica Fish and Chips.
With my parents, whom I love most!
If you enjoy urban exploring with a mix of good food, aesthetic storefronts, and a hint of creative culture, Ponsonby is absolutely the place to be.
If you're into shopping and love a good deal, Dress Smart Outlet Shopping is worth a visit. We first saw it in Queenstown, and were happy to find another location in Auckland too!
The Auckland outlet was surprisingly quiet, which made for a super chill shopping experience. No crowds, no stress, just lots of great deals. They’ve got a nice mix of local and international brands, and we managed to score some solid bargains. If you’ve got extra time in your itinerary, it’s definitely a fun stop for some budget-friendly retail therapy.
Day 3: Catalina Bay - Devonport
On the next day, we made our way to Catalina Bay, a charming waterfront area located in Hobsonville Point.
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, offering beautiful views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a mix of local charm.
One of the highlights of Catalina Bay is the Farmers Market, which we were lucky to catch during our visit.
The market had a great selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local treats.
We wandered through the stalls, sampling everything from handmade cheeses to delicious pastries.
It’s quite a nice spot to enjoy some local flavor and maybe even pick up a few unique souvenirs.
While exploring the market, we couldn’t resist trying some of the delicious offerings. We indulged in freshly made crepes, which were soft and perfectly sweet, and also grabbed some Italian bread—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, just as it should be. To satisfy our sweet tooth, we treated ourselves to gelato with waffles, which was an irresistible combo of creamy and crunchy. Of course, we couldn’t forget our caffeine fix, so we grabbed a cup of rich, aromatic coffee from Supreme—a local favorite that never disappoints.
After enjoying the delicious treats, we took a leisurely stroll around the bay.
The weather was absolutely perfect that day; clear skies and just the right amount of warmth.
As we walked, we admired the boats bobbing gently in the water and even spotted a large bird soaring above.
It was the perfect moment to just relax and take in the serene surroundings. Everything felt so peaceful and chill, exactly what we needed.
The weather was absolutely perfect that day; clear skies and just the right amount of warmth.
As we walked, we admired the boats bobbing gently in the water and even spotted a large bird soaring above.
It was the perfect moment to just relax and take in the serene surroundings. Everything felt so peaceful and chill, exactly what we needed.
That’s all for Catalina Bay, we’re ready to move on to our next destination!
Make sure to hunt down that big Catalina Bay sign and grab a fun photo with it, gotta have proof you were there! :)
Around noon, we made our way to Devonport, a picturesque seaside village just across the harbor from Auckland. Our first stop? Fish and chips, of course!
I realized that fish and chips are practically everywhere in New Zealand, so of course, we had to try their local fish—hoki. There are quite a few spots around Devonport, and we ended up finding one by the roadside called Rica Fish and Chips.
we ordered family combo which includes 5 pieces of hoki, 6 chicken nuggets, 1 hot dog and 1 1/2 chips, cost NZD38.
To my surprise, the tartare sauce here need to pay extra NZD3, as malaysia it comes with the meal and we can actually ask for refill if not enough.
BTW, the fish is fresh and crispy.
Devonport is a picturesque seaside suburb located just across the harbor from central Auckland, New Zealand. Known for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and cultural heritage.
Devonport is a picturesque seaside suburb located just across the harbor from central Auckland, New Zealand. Known for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and cultural heritage.
One of the standout landmarks in the area is the Devonport Post Office, an elegant Edwardian-era building that has been lovingly preserved.
With its classic architecture and prominent position in the heart of the village, the post office serves as a proud reminder of Devonport’s rich past and its enduring connection to New Zealand’s early colonial history.
With its classic architecture and prominent position in the heart of the village, the post office serves as a proud reminder of Devonport’s rich past and its enduring connection to New Zealand’s early colonial history.
The harbor is a peaceful place, with water stretching out as far as you can see. Boats gently float on the water, and the sound of waves hitting the shore is calming.
We went for a shot walk along the harbour, and I remember the wind was really strong, which pushed against me so hard that I almost lost my balance. #lol
We went for a shot walk along the harbour, and I remember the wind was really strong, which pushed against me so hard that I almost lost my balance. #lol
With my parents, whom I love most!
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Lovely shot by my dad. :)
If you're in Devonport, it's worth checking out Mount Victoria (or Takarunga), which offers stunning views of Auckland.
It can be a bit tricky to find the best route up, as Waze doesn’t always show the exact location.
We tried a few different routes and can’t quite remember how we ended up at the top, but the walk to the summit takes about 10–20 minutes. It's an uphill climb, so it does take a bit of energy.
The hill, standing at 66 meters, offers a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline, Waitematā Harbour, and the surrounding Hauraki Gulf.
It’s definitely worth the effort to walk up to the hill and take in the incredible view of Auckland City. The landscape is absolutely beautiful, with the city skyline stretching out in front of you, framed by the sparkling waters of Waitematā Harbour and the expansive Hauraki Gulf.
We were lucky enough to visit on a clear day, with the sky dotted with fluffy white clouds, which made the view even more stunning.
The scenery was so breathtaking that it felt like a perfect moment in time. I highly recommend making the trek up to the top, it's a must-see spot for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Auckland from a unique perspective.
It’s definitely worth the effort to walk up to the hill and take in the incredible view of Auckland City. The landscape is absolutely beautiful, with the city skyline stretching out in front of you, framed by the sparkling waters of Waitematā Harbour and the expansive Hauraki Gulf.
We were lucky enough to visit on a clear day, with the sky dotted with fluffy white clouds, which made the view even more stunning.
The scenery was so breathtaking that it felt like a perfect moment in time. I highly recommend making the trek up to the top, it's a must-see spot for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Auckland from a unique perspective.
Day 4: Auckland CBD
On our fourth day in Auckland, we decided to take it easy and explore the city on foot.
We hadn’t spent much time in the heart of the city yet, so we thought it’d be nice to wander around and soak in the local vibes.
That said, we kept things pretty light because my dad was feeling a bit tired that day.
Even though we didn’t cover a lot of ground, we still managed to visit a few spots, snap some photos, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
It was a slower-paced day, but sometimes those are the nicest, just taking your time and enjoying the little things.
The city center was fairly quiet in the morning, which wasn't too surprising.
Overall, the vibe in New Zealand is pretty relaxed and uncrowded.
It's the kind of place where even the busiest areas don’t feel overwhelming, especially compared to larger cities around the world.
From the city center, we could see the Auckland Sky Tower rising in the distance, standing tall and unmistakable against the skyline.
Overall, the vibe in New Zealand is pretty relaxed and uncrowded.
It's the kind of place where even the busiest areas don’t feel overwhelming, especially compared to larger cities around the world.
From the city center, we could see the Auckland Sky Tower rising in the distance, standing tall and unmistakable against the skyline.
If you look up attractions in Auckland, DFS actually shows up on the list.
I checked out the brands they have at the outlet, but nothing really caught my interest.
So we just snapped a photo from outside.
The building itself was pretty nice though, had this authentic, charming vibe to it.
We wandered into Queen's Arcade while exploring the city, and it felt like stepping into a little pocket of charm tucked away from the main streets.
It’s not huge, but the place has this vintage, old-world vibe with its arched ceilings and tiled floors. There were a few boutique shops and cafes inside—nothing too flashy, but definitely cozy.
One thing that stood out was the display of New Zealand flags throughout the arcade.
It was a small touch, but it added a bit of character to the place.
A nice little detour in the middle of the city.
Built between 1909 and 1912, the Ferry Building is one of Auckland’s most iconic waterfront landmarks.
Designed in Imperial Baroque style, it was a key hub for ferry transport and part of a major dock modernization.
Though ferry use declined after the 1950s, the building was restored in the late '80s and now houses shops and offices.
It remains a lasting symbol of Auckland’s maritime heritage.
The Auckland University Clock Tower, or Old Arts Building, is a historic Gothic Revival landmark completed in 1926.
With its intricate stonework and tall central clock tower, it’s one of the most iconic buildings on the University of Auckland campus, symbolizing the city’s academic heritage.
So we just snapped a photo from outside.
The building itself was pretty nice though, had this authentic, charming vibe to it.
We wandered into Queen's Arcade while exploring the city, and it felt like stepping into a little pocket of charm tucked away from the main streets.
It’s not huge, but the place has this vintage, old-world vibe with its arched ceilings and tiled floors. There were a few boutique shops and cafes inside—nothing too flashy, but definitely cozy.
One thing that stood out was the display of New Zealand flags throughout the arcade.
It was a small touch, but it added a bit of character to the place.
A nice little detour in the middle of the city.
Built between 1909 and 1912, the Ferry Building is one of Auckland’s most iconic waterfront landmarks.
Designed in Imperial Baroque style, it was a key hub for ferry transport and part of a major dock modernization.
Though ferry use declined after the 1950s, the building was restored in the late '80s and now houses shops and offices.
It remains a lasting symbol of Auckland’s maritime heritage.
The Auckland University Clock Tower, or Old Arts Building, is a historic Gothic Revival landmark completed in 1926.
With its intricate stonework and tall central clock tower, it’s one of the most iconic buildings on the University of Auckland campus, symbolizing the city’s academic heritage.
My dad was amazed that these rocks could be stacked so high without toppling over. :)
We ended up spending quite a bit of time at Albert Park which was such a peaceful spot.
The sunshine, quiet atmosphere, and shade from the trees made it perfect for just relaxing.
We sat there for a while, watching birds fly from branch to branch, taking in the calm.
One of its standout features is the flower clock, a big, colorful clock made entirely of flowers and plants.
It’s both quirky and pretty, and definitely one of those spots you pause at for a photo.
Does anyone know how old this strong tree is? :)
Anyway, that’s all for our little adventure around Auckland CBD.
It was kind of a short day, but we still managed to see quite a bit and soak in the atmosphere.
From quiet parks to historic buildings and city views, it felt like a nice mix of calm and character.
Even with limited time, we enjoyed every moment.
It was kind of a short day, but we still managed to see quite a bit and soak in the atmosphere.
From quiet parks to historic buildings and city views, it felt like a nice mix of calm and character.
Even with limited time, we enjoyed every moment.
Day 5: Mount Eden - Cornwall Park - One Tree Hill
Our one-month holiday is coming to an end.
Tomorrow, we’ll be flying back to Malaysia; back to the familiar, to home-cooked meals, and the comfort of our own beds.
But as excited as we are to return, there’s this little ache in our hearts knowing that this beautiful journey is about to close its final chapter.
So, we made a promise to ourselves: no moping around.
If it’s our last day in Auckland, we’re going to live it fully. And what better place to say goodbye than Mount Eden?
But as excited as we are to return, there’s this little ache in our hearts knowing that this beautiful journey is about to close its final chapter.
So, we made a promise to ourselves: no moping around.
If it’s our last day in Auckland, we’re going to live it fully. And what better place to say goodbye than Mount Eden?
Mount Eden, also known by its Māori name Maungawhau, is a volcanic cone located in Auckland, New Zealand.
It is the highest natural point in the city, standing about 196 meters tall.
Mount Eden was formed by a volcanic eruption over 28,000 years ago, and what we see today is a large crater at the top, about 50 meters deep.
The volcano is no longer active, so it’s completely safe to visit.
Mount Eden was formed by a volcanic eruption over 28,000 years ago, and what we see today is a large crater at the top, about 50 meters deep.
The volcano is no longer active, so it’s completely safe to visit.
The name Maungawhau means “Mountain of the Whau tree” in the Māori language, and the area is considered sacred.
So while visiting, it’s important to stay on the paths and respect the land.
Mount Eden is not just a place for great photos, it’s also a special part of Auckland’s natural and cultural history.
Mount Eden is not just a place for great photos, it’s also a special part of Auckland’s natural and cultural history.
I couldn’t stop wondering how this giant hole was formed. It made me think about how powerful nature really is.
Another highlight of Mount Eden is the truly amazing 360-degree view of Auckland.
You can see the city skyline, the harbor, and even other volcanic cones around the region.
You can see the city skyline, the harbor, and even other volcanic cones around the region.
If you didn’t make it to Mount Victoria, Mount Eden also gives you a great view of Auckland.
But to me, Mount Victoria has a slightly better view overall, especially with the harbor in the background.
If you asked me which walk is better, I’d go with Mount Eden. The hill’s not too high, and there are more flat steps than at Mount Victoria, so it’s definitely an easier climb.
I still can’t believe we’re actually traveling to New Zealand together.
It feels like just yesterday when Jia En was a little girl, holding my hand as we explored new places. From a young age, she’s always been curious, full of wonder, and eager to learn about the world.
We've shared so many special memories in different countries, and now, watching her grow into a beautiful young woman, my heart feels full.
I hope this journey is just one of many more adventures we’ll share side by side.
Mount Eden was such a highlight; not just for the views, but for the peaceful vibe at the top.
It feels like just yesterday when Jia En was a little girl, holding my hand as we explored new places. From a young age, she’s always been curious, full of wonder, and eager to learn about the world.
We've shared so many special memories in different countries, and now, watching her grow into a beautiful young woman, my heart feels full.
I hope this journey is just one of many more adventures we’ll share side by side.
Mount Eden was such a highlight; not just for the views, but for the peaceful vibe at the top.
It’s one of those spots that makes you stop, take it all in, and feel grateful to be right there in that moment.
After visiting Mount Eden, we were ready for lunch and a good cup of coffee.
While strolling along a quiet street, we stumbled upon Gina Italian & Garden Bar, and it seemed like the perfect spot.
The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and we were pleasantly surprised to find that their express lunch menu was quite affordable.
With prices at just NZD 19 per set, we couldn’t resist giving it a try.
No doubt, everything that arrived at our table was absolutely delicious!
From the fresh ingredients to the flavorful dishes, each bite was a treat. It was a great way to refuel after our morning adventure, and the reasonable prices made it feel like an added bonus.
We noticed many locals running in and out of the shop, which instantly made us think it must be really good.
The bakery had a charming vibe, and we were excited to try their desserts, expecting something special. However, while the treats were fresh and tasty, they didn’t quite live up to the hype we had built up in our minds.
Perhaps we had set our expectations a bit too high, but still, it was a nice stop, and we appreciated the chance to try a local favorite.
The last destination we visited before we called it a day was Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill, a peaceful and iconic spot in Auckland that felt like the perfect place to end our journey.
We parked our car at Cornwall Park, where is easy, free, and there are plenty of spaces.
However, be prepared for a bit of a walk from the parking area up to the top of the hill.
It’s not a tough hike, but it’s a little bit of a climb, giving you the chance to enjoy the beautiful surroundings on your way up.
What really surprised us at Cornwall Park was the sheer number of sheep running and walking freely around the park.
They were almost everywhere, and where there weren’t gates, the sheep had complete freedom to roam. It was amazing to be able to get so close to them, something we hadn’t experienced before.
They were almost everywhere, and where there weren’t gates, the sheep had complete freedom to roam. It was amazing to be able to get so close to them, something we hadn’t experienced before.
Ahhh! The sheep we met at Cornwall were just the cutest!
They were so fluffy and gentle, peacefully grazing on the green hills like little clouds come to life. Some were lounging under trees, others curiously looked our way, it felt like a scene straight out of a storybook. So lovely and calming to be around them!
They were so fluffy and gentle, peacefully grazing on the green hills like little clouds come to life. Some were lounging under trees, others curiously looked our way, it felt like a scene straight out of a storybook. So lovely and calming to be around them!
Throughout our trip in the South Island, we had seen plenty of sheep, but never this up close.
To have that happen on our last day in New Zealand felt like a perfect little bonus.
It was such a fun and memorable moment, and one we’ll definitely cherish as part of our final day’s adventure.
To have that happen on our last day in New Zealand felt like a perfect little bonus.
It was such a fun and memorable moment, and one we’ll definitely cherish as part of our final day’s adventure.
You have no idea how excited and happy I was! #hehe
As we were walking up to the hill, the weather suddenly changed, and it started to rain.
Despite the drizzle, we kept going and managed to snap a few photos with the iconic One Tree, although we couldn’t stay too long because of the rain.
It wasn’t the sunny, perfect moment we had imagined, but there was something peaceful about it, and we didn’t mind the little rain.
After a few quick shots, we decided to head back down the hill, but even with the weather not on our side, it was still a lovely way to finish our day.
Just when we thought the surprises were over at Cornwall Park, we spotted a bunch of cows chilling in a gated area right before we left!
Totally didn’t expect that! :)
Bye New Zealand!
As we look back on our three weeks in New Zealand, it’s hard to believe how much we’ve experienced in such a short time.
From the stunning landscapes of the South Island to the vibrant energy of Auckland, every moment has been filled with beauty and adventure.
We’ve hiked up mountains, explored quiet beaches, discovered hidden gems, and made unforgettable memories.
Though the weather was sometimes unpredictable, it never stopped us from enjoying the journey.
But this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about making dreams come true.
From the stunning landscapes of the South Island to the vibrant energy of Auckland, every moment has been filled with beauty and adventure.
We’ve hiked up mountains, explored quiet beaches, discovered hidden gems, and made unforgettable memories.
Though the weather was sometimes unpredictable, it never stopped us from enjoying the journey.
But this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about making dreams come true.
One of the highlights was finally bringing my parents to New Zealand, a place I’ve always dreamed of showing them.
It felt so special to experience the magic of this country together.
Another dream I crossed off my list was taking a campervan road trip, driving through the scenic landscapes and waking up to views I’ll never forget.
On top of that, I also took a full month off from work, which has been an incredible way to recharge and reconnect with myself and my family.
Leaving New Zealand tomorrow feels bittersweet. While we’re excited to return home, we’ll always carry a piece of this beautiful country with us.
This trip has checked off so many items on my to-do list, and I’ll forever be grateful for the experiences we had.
It’s been a trip that will stay in my heart forever, and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
Another dream I crossed off my list was taking a campervan road trip, driving through the scenic landscapes and waking up to views I’ll never forget.
On top of that, I also took a full month off from work, which has been an incredible way to recharge and reconnect with myself and my family.
Leaving New Zealand tomorrow feels bittersweet. While we’re excited to return home, we’ll always carry a piece of this beautiful country with us.
This trip has checked off so many items on my to-do list, and I’ll forever be grateful for the experiences we had.
It’s been a trip that will stay in my heart forever, and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
And that wraps up my New Zealand journey, a big thank you to everyone who’s been following my New Zealand journey.
I know it took me some time to finish sharing everything, but I hope you had fun reading and maybe found something cool or useful.
I’ll be taking a short break from the blog as I head off on a UK road trip next month, but I’ll still be posting on my IG @mizhippo, I see you there! xoxo
I know it took me some time to finish sharing everything, but I hope you had fun reading and maybe found something cool or useful.
I’ll be taking a short break from the blog as I head off on a UK road trip next month, but I’ll still be posting on my IG @mizhippo, I see you there! xoxo
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