Cardboard Cathedral
The formal name of the building is the Cardboard Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. It is a unique structure located in Christchurch, New Zealand.
The Cardboard Cathedral was built as a temporary replacement for the damaged Christchurch Catholic Cathedral following the devastating earthquake in 2011. It gets its name from one of its main building materials, cardboard tubes.
The architectural design of the cathedral was created by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, known for his innovative use of non-traditional materials and temporary structures.
The main structure of the Cardboard Cathedral incorporates numerous cardboard tubes and other lightweight materials, giving it a temporary nature while showcasing a distinct and meticulously designed exterior.
The building features a minimalist and modern architectural style, with spacious and bright interior spaces that can accommodate approximately 700 people. It also includes a sanctuary, a meeting room, and a memorial garden.
Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau is a large lake located in the Southland Region of New Zealand's South Island.
It is the second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, after Lake Taupo in the Canterbury region.
Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Lake Te Anau is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in New Zealand.
It is surrounded by majestic mountains and boasts crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters, creating a breathtaking scene.
The lakeside is home to a town called Te Anau, which serves as the primary hub for the lake region. Te Anau offers a range of amenities and accommodations for visitors to enjoy while exploring the area.
Church of the Good Shepherd
The Church of the Good Shepherd is located in the Canterbury region of the South Island of New Zealand, situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo.
The Church of the Good Shepherd is a small and charming church, and it is one of the most famous tourist attractions in New Zealand. It is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and unique architecture.
Built-in 1935, the church was designed by New Zealand architect R.A. Lawson. It is perched on a small hill overlooking the lake, with a backdrop of majestic mountains and the blue waters of Lake Tekapo.
The Church of the Good Shepherd is known for its simple architectural style, constructed with stone and wood to blend harmoniously with the surrounding natural environment. The interior features vibrant stained glass windows depicting religious motifs and elements of New Zealand culture.
The church and the surrounding Lake Tekapo area are considered an ideal location for stargazing, offering spectacular views of the night sky and the Milky Way.
The Church of the Good Shepherd is a must-visit destination in the South Island of New Zealand, showcasing the magnificent natural beauty and unique cultural heritage of the country.
Daily Itinerary
- Sky Tower: This is a landmark building in Auckland, the tallest self-standing tower in the southern hemisphere. You can take the elevator up to the observation deck and enjoy the magnificent view of Auckland city and harbor from there. In addition, Sky Tower has some restaurants and viewing platforms for visitors to enjoy the food and panoramic view.
- Auckland Domain: This is the largest park in Auckland city center, located south of the city center. With extensive green areas, gardens and lakes, it is an ideal place for citizens and tourists to take a leisurely walk, picnic and exercise. There are also several museums and cultural institutions, such as the Auckland Museum.
- Mission Bay: This is a waterfront area in the eastern part of Auckland city, famous for its beautiful beaches and scenery. You can relax here, swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a meal at the surrounding restaurants. Mission Bay is also a popular outing and recreation area, attracting local residents and tourists.
- Avon River Punting: The Avon River in Christchurch is a popular tourist activity. You can enjoy a leisurely float along the scenic river in a boat operated by a punter and enjoy the gardens and architecture along the river.
- Christchurch Tramway: This is a sightseeing tram service that takes visitors around Christchurch's major attractions and historic districts. You can get off at one of the stops and catch the next tram to continue the tour. The sightseeing tram is a convenient and enjoyable way to learn about the city's history and culture.
- Canterbury Museum: Located in the heart of Christchurch, this museum is a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the historical, cultural and natural heritage of New Zealand and the Canterbury region. Here you can learn about Maori culture, archaeological discoveries, and plant and animal ecology.
- Cardboard Cathedral: This is a unique building in Christchurch, built from cardboard and other recycled materials. Built to replace the Christchurch Cathedral, which was damaged by the 2011 earthquake, this church demonstrates the concept of innovative and sustainable architecture.
- Mona Vale Gardens: This is a beautiful public garden located in downtown Christchurch. With manicured lawns, flower beds, fountains and walking paths, Mona Vale Gardens is the perfect place for walking, picnicking and relaxing.
- Christchurch Central Business District: This is Christchurch's downtown area with its many stores, restaurants, cafes and shopping centers. Here you can shop, eat, and experience the urban atmosphere and commercial vibrancy of Christchurch.
- Tranz Alpine: This is a train journey through the Southern Alps and has been described as one of the most beautiful trains in the world. Starting in Christchurch, the train passes through spectacular mountains, deep valleys and rivers, passing through Arthur's Pass and ending at the west coast in Greymouth. You can enjoy spectacular views of nature, including snow-capped mountains, valleys and forests.
- Arthur's Pass: This is a mountain pass in the Southern Alps and a New Zealand National Park. In Arthur's Pass, you can do various outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing and bird watching. The mountains and waterfalls here are impressive, and there are trails that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty up close.
- Treetop Walk: This is an attraction near Christchurch that offers an exhilarating walking experience. You can walk through the tree canopy and along the overhanging walkway, overlooking the magnificent forest scenery. This is a unique way to see the trees and the natural environment.
- Glacier hiking: There are some glaciers around Christchurch, such as Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. You can join organized hiking tours through the glacial streams and icy landscapes of the glaciers and enjoy the spectacular glacier views. Please note that this is an adventurous activity that requires the guidance of professional guides and safety measures.
- West Coast National Park: This is a nature reserve located south of Greymouth and is considered one of the most pristine and spectacular areas in New Zealand. There are vast virgin rainforests, beautiful beaches and spectacular coastline. You can do various outdoor activities here such as hiking, bird watching, exploring caves and walking along the coastline. The West Coast also has some unique geographic features such as the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Fox Glacier National Park that are worth a visit.
- West Coast Region: Arrive in the West Coast Region and explore the small towns of Greymouth or Hokitika and enjoy the region's spectacular coastline.
- Jasperin National Park: Head to Jasperin National Park, a protected area with pristine rainforest and stunning blue pools. There you can explore the forest trails and admire the magnificent mountains and crystal clear blue lakes.
- Cromwell Fruit Town: Travel to Cromwell, a famous fruit-growing region. You can taste the fresh local fruits, visit the orchards and find specialties at the local market.
- Cable car ride up Bob's Peak: Visit Queenstown, a charming town in New Zealand's South Island. From there you can take a cable car ride up to Bob's Peak for a spectacular panoramic view of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains.
- Vintage Steamer: Take a cruise on a vintage steamer on Lake Wakatipu and see the lake and mountains. You can choose to take a cruise or join a cruise on Lake Wakatipu and enjoy the stunning scenery around Queenstown.
- Waterfront Farm: Visit the Waterfront Farm, a traditional farm experience located near Queenstown. You can learn about the culture and history of New Zealand farming, visit a pasture, interact with animals, and taste fresh local produce.
- Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a lakeside chapel on nearby Lake Tekapo. This classic building with its lakeside backdrop is an ideal place for photography enthusiasts.
- Five Below Ice Palace or Lakeside Cycling: If you're feeling adventurous, visit the Five Below Ice Palace near Queenstown and explore the mysterious beauty of the ice world. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle and ride along the lakeshore to enjoy the spectacular mountain and lake views. Queenstown: Free time in Queenstown where you can explore the downtown shopping area, taste the local cuisine and experience exciting adventures such as jet boating, skydiving and paragliding. Queenstown has a wide selection of natural attractions and activities to meet the needs of every kind of traveler.
- Milford Sound Cruise: Travel from Queenstown to Milford Sound, one of the most famous canyons in New Zealand. You can join the Milford Sound boat tour and see the magnificent mountains, waterfalls, dolphins and other marine life. This canyon is known as one of the eight wonders of New Zealand, definitely worth a visit!
- Active Stalactite Cave: Go to Active Stalactite Cave, an amazing underground cave system located near Queenstown. You can join a guided cave exploration tour to see the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. It is a unique underground world that will leave you in awe of the wonders of nature's creation.
- Lake Te Anau: From Queenstown, you will go to Lake Tiano, one of the largest lakes in South Island and one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. You can stroll around the lake and enjoy the magnificent view of the lake and the mountains. In addition, you can also choose to go boating, fishing or take a nature tour on the lake.
DAY 8
- Queenstown Airport: Return to Queenstown from Lake Tiano and transfer to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Christchurch.
- Christchurch: Arrive in Christchurch, one of the largest cities in the South Island of New Zealand. You can visit Christchurch Cathedral, City Hall and Square, and other landmarks. In addition, there are many museums, art galleries and shopping centers for you to explore.
- Ashburton: From Christchurch, travel to Ashburton, a small town in the Canterbury region. You can explore the local farming and horticultural culture in Ashburton, visiting gardens, orchards and farms.
- Scott Base:From Ashburton, you can travel to the nearby Antarctic Base, which is one of the gateways to Antarctic exploration in New Zealand. You can join the Antarctic Adventure Tour and learn about the scientific research and conservation work in the Antarctic continent and the wonders of the Antarctic ecosystem.
- Spanish Cuisine: After returning to Christchurch, you can enjoy the local Spanish cuisine. There are many restaurants and bars in Christchurch that offer a wide variety of Spanish cuisine, so you can enjoy tapas, seafood and delicious Spanish cuisine.
1. Lake Tiano: Travel from Queenstown to Lake Tiano, one of the largest lakes in the South Island. You can stroll around the lake and enjoy the magnificent view of the lake and mountains. You can also choose to go boating, fishing or take a guided nature tour on the lake.
2. Queenstown Airport: Return to Queenstown from Lake Tiano and transfer to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Christchurch.
3. Christchurch: Arrive in Christchurch, one of the largest cities in the South Island of New Zealand. You can visit Christchurch Cathedral, City Hall and Square, and other landmarks. In addition, there are many museums, art galleries and shopping centers for you to explore.
4. Ashburton: From Christchurch, travel to Ashburton, a small town in the Canterbury region. In Ashburton, you can Explore the local farming and horticultural culture and visit gardens, orchards and farms.
5. Antarctic Base: From Ashburton, you can travel to the nearby Antarctic Base, which is one of the gateways to Antarctic exploration in New Zealand. You can join the Antarctic Adventure Tour and learn about the scientific research and conservation work in the Antarctic continent and the wonders of the Antarctic ecosystem.
6. Spanish Cuisine: After returning to Christchurch, you can enjoy the local Spanish cuisine. There are many restaurants and bars in Christchurch that offer a wide variety of Spanish cuisine, so you can enjoy tapas, seafood and delicious Spanish cuisine.
