20 days in Wellington & Auckland Itinerary

Wellington, the world's southernmost capital city and New Zealand's second most populous urban area, combines the nation's rugged history and nature with its modern and cosmopolitan present.

Explore hidden gems such as Paekakariki Escarpment Walkway and Nga Manu Nature Reserve. Deepen your sense of the past at sights like Wellington Railway Station and Saint Mary of the Angels. Venture out of the city with trips to Southward Car Museum (in Paraparaumu), Martinborough (Poppies Martinborough & Colombo Martinborough) and Cobblestones Museum (in Greytown). And it doesn't end there: see Off-Road Tours, take your sightseeing to a higher altitude at Mount Kaukau, tour the pleasant surroundings at Days Bay, and kick back and relax at Scorching Bay.

For more things to do, maps, and more tourist information, you can read our Wellington trip itinerary tool.

If you are flying in from Australia, the closest major aiport is Wellington International Airport. In December, daytime highs in Wellington are 22°C, while nighttime lows are 15°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 30th (Fri) so you can catch the flight to Auckland.

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.

Let the collections at Auckland Museum and Stardome Observatory & Planetarium capture your imagination. Head to Of Hand & Heart and Ponsonbyfor plenty of shopping. Explore Auckland's surroundings by going to Obsidian Vineyard (in Onetangi), Goldie Estate (in Waiheke Island) and Kennedy Point Vineyard (in Surfdale). The adventure continues: enjoy the sand and surf at Takapuna Beach, pause for some serene contemplation at St. Patrick's Cathedral, look for all kinds of wild species at Muriwai Gannet Colony, and stroll through Bethells Beach.

To find maps, photos, more things to do, and more tourist information, read Auckland day trip planning website.

Getting from Wellington to Auckland by flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive; or take a train. Traveling from Wellington in December, expect somewhat warmer with lows of 20°C in Auckland. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 10th (Tue) to allow time to fly back home.