New Zealand Trip Guide: The Prelude

Somewhere in NZ which I cannot remember

And so, after much deliberation, due to the amount of information digging and compilation required, I have finally decided to write up on my trip to NZ, which happened back in April. Other than the factor of 'shiok sendiri' during future reads, hopefully, just hopefully, somewhere out there, someone will find these articles (more to come) helpful when planning for their own adventure to the beautiful NZ. Here goes.

Why such a short trip?
Our route: Auckland - Tongariro - Taupo - Rotorua - Auckland

Other than budgetary limitations, we had initially planned to engage a particular local tour company for some free and easy package in which they will help arrange all logistic matters in NZ and leave the schedule for your planning. Unfortunately, since they didn't respond to our emails nor calls after numerous attempts, I decided plan it out myself eventually, using their itinerary as guide - damn smart right, should have done this from the start. And this was after we secured our flights, hence, the strictly North Island tour for 7 days and 6 nights.

Why Malaysia Airlines?
Needless to say, because we're 'Anak Malaysia'. Just kidding. It's because they have a direct route from KL to Auckland and taking budget for such a long flight will be most painful. The furthest I've flew budget was to Korea and it was 7+ hours of pure suffering for me, mainly because of my size. Hence, the decision to fork out a little more for flight this round.

Why Airbnb?
Main factor being the cost because hotels in NZ are pretty expensive. And the other, flexibility, as we were on the move daily across different towns/areas. We did consider renting a camper van initially but backed out eventually because (i) there's only both of us (ii) the wife's concerned to drive (iii) both of us have zero knowledge on camper vans

Why SNAP Rentals? 

I did a fair amount of research (read through tons of comments) before finally settling on SNAP and frankly, I was very satisfied with my decision because:

• Value for money - vehicles are in good condition and the full insurance coverage offered is much affordable
• Simple process - from online booking to payment to confirmation to vehicle collection and return, it's quick and hassle free
• Airport pickup available - just needed to call them upon arrival (toll free) to arrange for pickup and chauffeured to the departure hall upon returning vehicle, all within 20 minutes
• Variety - compacts, hatches, sedans, SUV, trucks - a vehicle that suits your needs for any occasions  

Last but no least, overall budget
About RM 9000 per person (pp), inclusive of flight (RM 2000 pp), car rental (RM 1100), accommodation (RM 1400), local attractions (RM 2100) and spending money (RM 5000 pp)

More to come!