The final leg of the honeymoon in Sydney, visiting Opera House, Royal Botanical Gardens, and Sydney Zoo across the harbor by water taxi. Ate at fancy restaurants Quay and Yukis with views of the Opera House, but found Sydney similar to other big cities and less impressive than Queenstown's natural beauty.
Exploring Queenstown with its stunning mountain views, restaurants, and variety of activities from extreme sports to scenic gondola rides. Took a day tour to Milford Sound with stops through Fjordlands and a boat ride that included getting drenched at a waterfall, plus an evening on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a farm dinner with sheep shearing demonstration.
The final day in Auckland featuring visits to the War Memorial Museum, Victoria Park, and a ramen restaurant that exceeded expectations, followed by discovery of Sansui sushi with excellent service and presentation. Flew to Queenstown on a small plane with spectacular Lord of the Rings-like mountain views on arrival.
A guided tour from Auckland visiting Waitomo glow worm caves for a magical boat ride under starlight-like worms, and Rotorua hot springs to see impressive geysers and experience geothermal activity, plus learning about Maori culture and welcoming ceremonies.
A day exploring Auckland's city center, starting with eggs Benedict room service, a haircut with conversation about American car imports, a spa visit, and visiting Sky Tower with its glass floors and bungee jumping observation, ending with Thai dinner. A day exploring Auckland's city center, starting with eggs Benedict room service, a haircut with conversation about American car imports, a spa visit, and visiting Sky Tower with its glass floors and bungee jumping observation, ending with Thai dinner.
Arrival in Auckland for honeymoon with reflections on United Airlines service, 22-hour LAX-Auckland flight, and customs wait. Mentions nice gestures from passengers, rugby team sighting, and meeting friends before honeymoon trip.