After years of busy clinics, back-to-back shifts, and trying to squeeze in rest between responsibilities, I finally hit pause.
I booked a flight to New Zealand, rented a car, and gave myself 20 days to explore at my own pace. No schedule, no scrubs—just the open road and two stunning islands waiting to be discovered. Here’s how my self-driving trip in New Zealand went.
Chapter Trail
Day 1–3: Auckland & the Bay of Islands
I landed in Auckland, picked up my rental car, and got familiar with left-side driving. After a day exploring Auckland’s harbor and grabbing coffee at Ponsonby, I headed north to the Bay of Islands.
Think secluded beaches, rolling hills, and a sunset cruise surrounded by dolphins. I stayed in Paihia, took a boat out to Hole in the Rock, and soaked up the laid-back Northland vibes.
Day 4–6: Rotorua & Taupō
Back on the road, I drove south through green farmland and winding roads to Rotorua. The steam rising from geothermal vents was the first sign I’d arrived somewhere totally unique.
Highlights included the bubbling mud pools at Wai-O-Tapu, a soak at Polynesian Spa, and catching a Māori cultural performance at Te Puia. From there, I drove to Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. I walked the Huka Falls trail, tried kayaking near Mine Bay’s Māori rock carvings, and enjoyed fresh trout by the lake.
Day 7–9: Tongariro & Wellington
Next up: the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s one of the best day hikes in the world—and it lives up to the hype. Volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and sweeping views made every step worth it.
I stayed overnight in National Park Village, then continued south to Wellington. Wellington is artsy, windy, and very cool. I explored Te Papa Museum, rode the cable car, and treated myself to craft beer and amazing food on Cuba Street.
Day 10–13: Crossing to the South Island – Marlborough & Kaikōura
I took the ferry across the Cook Strait—a scenic journey through the Marlborough Sounds—and landed in Picton. A drive through wine country brought me to Blenheim, where I did a wine tour (Sauvignon Blanc, anyone?) and learned that biking between vineyards is both fun and slightly wobbly.
Then came Kaikōura—where mountains meet the sea. I went on a whale-watching tour and saw a sperm whale surface right next to the boat. Mind-blowing. There were also fur seals everywhere and some of the best seafood I’ve ever tasted.
Day 14–16: Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mt. Cook & Wanaka
The inland drive to Lake Tekapo was full of jaw-dropping scenery—rolling hills giving way to snowy peaks. The lake itself was a dream. I visited the Church of the Good Shepherd, stargazed in the Dark Sky Reserve, and hiked around the turquoise shores.
Next stop: Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park. I stayed in the village and did the Hooker Valley Track, which was picture-perfect from start to finish—swing bridges, glacier lakes, and views of New Zealand’s highest peak.
After that, I cruised into Wanaka, a chilled-out lake town where I paddleboarded, took a boat out to Mou Waho Island, and—yes—snapped a photo of the famous Wanaka Tree.
Day 17–18: Queenstown & Milford Sound
Queenstown was a thrill. I skipped the bungee jumping (next time!), but did ride the Skyline gondola, tried Fergburger (worth the line), and cruised Lake Wakatipu at golden hour.
From there, it was an early start for the long and winding drive to Milford Sound. The drive itself is unforgettable—sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and alpine lakes around every bend. I took a cruise through the sound and watched dolphins ride the bow. Absolutely magical.
Day 19–20: Arrowtown & Departure from Queenstown
On my way back to Queenstown, I stopped in Arrowtown, a charming gold rush village with tree-lined streets and great coffee. It was the perfect place to slow down, reflect, and grab a few souvenirs.
I spent my last night back in Queenstown, sipping wine on a lakeside deck and staring at the Remarkables as the sun went down.
Conclusion
As someone whose days are usually packed with decisions and responsibility, this trip reminded me how good it feels to slow down, wander, and just enjoy the journey. New Zealand gave me 20 days of epic landscapes, quiet moments, and the kind of freedom that’s rare in my usual line of work. I came back recharged, with a camera full of memories—and yes, already dreaming of my next escape.
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