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7-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour of New Zealand's North and South Islands

Viewed by 87 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Urban Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a delicious New York-style breakfast in this popular café known for its all-day breakfast and quality coffee.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Sky Tower Visit

Visit Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor. Open from 9am to 10pm daily.
NZD32, 1h

11:00am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand's cultural and natural history with extensive Maori exhibits, situated in the Auckland Domain. Open 10am-5pm.
NZD25, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes at this bustling eatery near the Sky Tower, open 12pm-3pm for lunch.
NZD40, 1h

3:00pm

Walk around Viaduct Harbour

Relax by the waterfront with a stroll around the Viaduct Harbour, soaking in the atmosphere of yachts and cafes.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Grill by Sean Connolly

Savor premium New Zealand beef and seafood in a sophisticated setting. Open from 6pm for dinner.
NZD70, 2h
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Day 2: Rotorua Geothermal and Maori Culture

Rotorua, New Zealand on July 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy organic and fresh breakfast options in this quaint deli and cafe, opening at 7am.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Discover geysers, mud pools, and the famous Pohutu Geyser as well as traditional Maori crafts. Open 8am-5pm.
NZD60, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Terrace Kitchen

Experience modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and relaxing mountain views. Open 12pm-3pm.
NZD35, 1h

2:30pm

Polynesian Spa

Relax in mineral-rich hot springs with stunning lake views, open daily from 8am to late evening.
NZD50, 2h

6:30pm

Maori Cultural Evening at Mitai Maori Village

Enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and cultural performance by the Maori at the village. Evening tours start around 6:30pm.
NZD88, 3h
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Day 3: Lake Taupo Adventure

Taupo, New Zealand on July 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Storehouse

Delight in local baked goods and coffee at this lakefront café opening at 7am.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Huka Falls Walk

Visit the spectacular Huka Falls with easy access and viewing platforms. Open all day, free entry.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Jet Boating on Waikato River

Experience thrilling jet boat rides through the river's rapids, tours operate typically 9am–5pm.
NZD100, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Plateau Bar & Eatery

A trendy spot with international and local dishes, open for lunch from 12pm.
NZD35, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Taupo Museum and Art Gallery

Explore local history and art reflecting the Taupo region's culture. Open 10am-4pm.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Brantry

Enjoy fine dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting. Open from 6pm.
NZD60, 2h
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Day 4: Capital City Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on July 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Café

Relish a vibrant atmosphere and hearty breakfast options located on Cuba Street, open from 7:30am.
NZD22, 1h

9:00am

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Discover New Zealand’s national museum with interactive and extensive cultural exhibits, open 10am-6pm.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual yet chic environment; lunch service from 12pm.
NZD45, 1h

2:00pm

Cable Car Ride and Botanic Garden Walk

Take the Wellington Cable Car to Kelburn and wander the beautiful Botanic Gardens nearby. Cable car runs 7am-10pm.
NZD9, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Experience fine dining with innovative Kiwi cuisine in a restored banking chamber. Open from 6pm.
NZD75, 2h
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Day 5: Christchurch Historical Sights

Christchurch, New Zealand on July 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Known for creative coffee and fresh breakfast, this spot opens early at 7:30am.
NZD18, 1h

9:30am

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through beautiful themed gardens in the city centre, open during daylight hours with free entry.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy seasonal New Zealand cuisine in a charming villa, lunch served from 12pm.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Canterbury Museum

Explore natural and human history of the Canterbury region, open 10am-5pm, free entry.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

A cozy bistro with local wines and modern dishes, open for dinner from 6pm.
NZD55, 2h
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Day 6: Queenstown Adventure Hub

Queenstown, New Zealand on July 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

A popular spot for gourmet breakfast and artisan coffee, opens at 7:30am.
NZD22, 1h

9:30am

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Thrilling jet boat adventure through the Shotover River canyons, operating from 9am to late afternoon.
NZD130, 1h

11:30am

Queenstown Gardens Walk

Relax with a walk in the botanical gardens on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Taste the world-famous burgers, perfect for a casual and quick lunch, open daily from 8am.
NZD20, 1h

2:00pm

Skyline Gondola and Luge

Ride the gondola for spectacular views and enjoy the fun alpine luge rides, open 9am-9pm.
NZD60, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rātā

Celebrate contemporary Kiwi cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett, open from 6pm.
NZD75, 2h
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Day 7: Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Milford Sound, New Zealand on July 19, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a quick and hearty breakfast at your accommodation to set off early for Milford Sound.
NZD15, 0.5h

7:00am

Drive to Milford Sound

Scenic 4-hour drive through Fiordland National Park with stops at viewpoints along the way.
Free, 4h

12:00pm

Milford Sound Nature Cruise

3-hour cruise among towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Cruises usually run from 9am to 5pm.
NZD110, 3h

3:30pm

Return Drive to Queenstown

Drive back to Queenstown enjoying the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland.
Free, 4h

8:00pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

End your trip with fine dining featuring top New Zealand meat and seafood, open till late.
NZD80, 2h
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