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9-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour of New Zealand

Viewed by 96 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Federal Delicatessen, known for its delicious Jewish-inspired dishes and excellent coffee, open from 7am to 3pm.
NZD30, 1h

9:30am

Auckland Sky Tower

Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor. It is open daily from 9am to 10pm and offers a unique perspective of Auckland.
NZD32, 1h

11:00am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s history, natural environment, and Maori culture at this fascinating museum located in the Auckland Domain, open from 10am to 5pm.
NZD25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Grove

Enjoy modern New Zealand cuisine with fresh local ingredients at The Grove Restaurant, open from 12pm to 2:30pm for lunch.
NZD60, 1h

3:00pm

Walk around Viaduct Harbour

Stroll along Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant area full of restaurants, bars, and boats. Perfect spot for photos and casual exploration.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Finish the day with a delightful dinner at Depot, known for its fresh seafood including oysters, serving dinner from 5pm to 10pm.
NZD70, 1.5h
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Day 2: Explore Waitakere Ranges

Auckland, New Zealand on July 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kokako Organic Café

Enjoy organic, locally sourced breakfast items and great coffee in a cozy setting, open from 7am to 3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Hiking at Waitakere Ranges

Spend the day hiking through native forest trails with stunning waterfalls and coastal views in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.
Free, 5h

2:30pm

Visit Piha Beach

Relax or walk at Piha Beach, famous for its black sand and surf culture, a must-see natural attraction close to the Waitakere Ranges.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Piha Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner with local flavors near the beach, open until 8pm.
NZD40, 1h
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Day 3: Auckland to Rotorua

Auckland to Rotorua, New Zealand on July 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café

Fuel up early before traveling with a quick breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
NZD20, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive from Auckland to Rotorua

Travel approximately 3 hours to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland and cultural hotspot.
Car rental cost varies, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Atticus Finch, Rotorua

Enjoy contemporary New Zealand dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, open 11:30am to 3pm.
NZD45, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Visit this iconic geothermal park with colorful hot springs and geysers, open 8am to 5pm, a must-see in Rotorua.
NZD32, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural hot mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, open 8am to 10pm.
NZD35, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar

Dine with scenic views atop Mount Ngongotaha, offering excellent New Zealand cuisine, open 6pm to 9pm.
NZD65, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Auckland to Rotorua

Day 4: Rotorua and Taupo

Rotorua and Taupo, New Zealand on July 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy fresh and healthy breakfast options before heading out, open from 7am.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Te Puia Maori Cultural Experience

Learn about Maori culture and witness geysers and mud pools at Te Puia, open 8am to 5pm.
NZD55, 2h

11:30am

Drive to Taupo

A scenic 1 hour 15 min drive to Taupo, home of the mighty Lake Taupo and outdoor activities.
Car rental cost varies, 1h15m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Brantry Café, Taupo

Relax with fresh and gourmet food in a stylish café, open 8am to 3pm.
NZD40, 1h

2:30pm

Huka Falls visit

Short walk to stunning Huka Falls, a spectacular natural waterfall on the Waikato River.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Taupo lakefront

Leisurely stroll and relax by the shores of Lake Taupo.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Vine Eatery & Bar

Enjoy an elegant dinner with New Zealand wines and seasonal ingredients, open 6pm to 9pm.
NZD60, 1.5h
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Day 5: Taupo to Wellington

Taupo to Wellington, New Zealand on July 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local café

Have an early breakfast to prepare for travel, cafes typically open from 7am.
NZD20, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive from Taupo to Wellington

Enjoy the approximately 5-hour scenic drive south to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.
Car rental cost varies, 5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fidel’s Café, Wellington

Vibrant spot for delicious, hearty meals in a retro atmosphere, open 8am to 3pm.
NZD35, 1h

2:30pm

Te Papa Museum

Visit New Zealand's national museum featuring art, history, and natural heritage; open daily 10am to 6pm, free entry.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Wellington Waterfront

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the scenic harbor front.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Upscale dining in a historic building offering fine New Zealand cuisine, open 6pm to 9pm.
NZD75, 1.5h
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Day 6: Wellington to Picton

Wellington and Picton, New Zealand on July 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at No.1 Pancake

Enjoy pancakes and coffee for breakfast, open 7am to 3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Experience the scenic 3-hour Interislander ferry crossing to Picton on the South Island.
NZD65, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Picton Village

Have lunch at one of the cozy eateries near Picton waterfront, open around noon to late afternoon.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Queen Charlotte Track short walk

Enjoy an easy scenic walk on part of the famous Queen Charlotte Track, surrounded by beautiful bays and forest.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Picton waterfront

Leisure time by the water to explore shops and cafés in Picton.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Snout House Brewery

Have a casual dinner paired with local craft beers at this popular brewery restaurant, open 5pm to 9pm.
NZD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Wellington and Picton

Day 7: Kaikoura Marine Adventure

Picton to Kaikoura, New Zealand on July 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a quick breakfast to get ready for travel and activities ahead.
NZD20, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive from Picton to Kaikoura

Approximately 2.5-hour drive south to Kaikoura, renowned for marine wildlife.
Car rental cost varies, 2h30m

11:00am

Whale Watching Tour

Take a 3-hour whale watching boat trip to see sperm whales and other marine life, tours run from 9am to 4pm depending on bookings.
NZD140, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes at Kaikoura’s waterfront eatery, open from 11am to 8pm.
NZD50, 1h

4:00pm

Kaikoura Peninsula Walk

Walk along the scenic peninsula to observe fur seals and beautiful coastline, accessible anytime.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Pier Hotel

Relax with a meal and sunset views at this popular local hotel restaurant, open 6pm to 9pm.
NZD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Picton to Kaikoura

Day 8: Kaikoura to Christchurch

Kaikoura to Christchurch, New Zealand on July 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Encounter

Try a well-reviewed breakfast spot before departure, open from 7am.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch

A 2.5-hour drive to Christchurch for your final day exploring the city.
Car rental cost varies, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dux Central

Experience modern bistro dining in the city, open for lunch noon to 3pm.
NZD45, 1h

1:30pm

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Relax in beautiful gardens showcasing native and exotic plants, open daily 7am to dusk.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Canterbury Museum

Explore natural history and cultural exhibits, open daily 9am to 5pm, free entry.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at 27 Steps

Enjoy contemporary cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, open 6pm to 10pm.
NZD65, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Kaikoura to Christchurch

Day 9: Departure day

Christchurch, New Zealand on July 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Famous for creative breakfast dishes and great coffee, open from 7am to 3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Last minute shopping or city stroll

Spend your final hours in Christchurch strolling the city center or picking souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Transfer to Christchurch Airport

Prepare for your departure from Christchurch with ample time for check-in and security.
Taxi approx NZD40, 1h
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