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20-Day South Island New Zealand Adventure: Christchurch to Christchurch Highlights

Viewed by 81 travelers

Day 1: Christchurch City Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand on September 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Enjoy a unique coffee experience and innovative breakfast dishes at this popular Christchurch cafe, open from 7am to 4pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Canterbury Museum

Stroll through beautiful gardens and explore the museum showcasing local history and natural heritage. Gardens open 7am-8pm, museum 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Riverside Market

Sample diverse local food stalls offering fresh and delicious meals in a lively indoor market space open until 3pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:00pm

The Christchurch Adventure Park - Ziplining

Experience adrenaline rush with treetop zipline rides amidst native forest. Open daily from 10am to sunset.
NZD89, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Relax with contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a charming garden setting, open 5pm–9pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Akaroa Harbour and Maori Culture

Akaroa, New Zealand on September 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Little Bistro

Enjoy locally sourced breakfast in Akaroa’s cosy bistro, open 7:30am-3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Drive Christchurch to Akaroa

Scenic 1.5-hour drive along Banks Peninsula with stunning coastal views.
Transport cost, 1h30m

10:45am

Akaroa Harbour Jet Boating

Thrilling jet boat experience on the harbour exploring hidden coves and wildlife. Tours generally run 10am-4pm, book in advance.
NZD120, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Brasserie

Waterfront dining featuring fresh seafood and NZ classics, open 12pm to late afternoon.
NZD45, 1h

2:00pm

Maori Cultural Experience at Takapuneke Reserve

Learn about local Maori history and traditions through guided stories and artefacts. Best to arrange a private or group session ahead of time.
NZD40, 2h

5:00pm

Drive to Arthur's Pass

Scenic 3-hour drive west towards the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass for mountain views and hiking.
Transport cost, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at Arthur's Pass Chalet

Enjoy hearty mountain meals in a cosy lodge setting, open evenings.
NZD50, 1h
Find Hotels in Akaroa

Day 3: Alpine Adventure and Hiking

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand on September 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arthur’s Pass Cafe

Start the day with a filling breakfast in the village centre, open from 7am.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Avalanche Peak Track Hike

Challenging 5-6 hour return hike with spectacular alpine views, best done in good weather from 8am to mid-afternoon.
Free, 6h

3:30pm

Relax at the Arthur’s Pass Village

Explore local shops and rest after the hike with a coffee or snack.
NZD15, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Wobbly Kea Cafe

Casual dining with local dishes and drinks near the village centre open until 8pm.
NZD40, 1h
Find Hotels in Arthur's Pass

Day 4: West Coast Journey

Greymouth, New Zealand on September 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arthur's Pass Bakery

Grab fresh pastries and coffee before departure, open from 7am.
NZD15, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Greymouth

Enjoy a 2-hour scenic drive along the West Coast with rugged landscapes and native bush.
Transport cost, 2h

10:30am

Shantytown Heritage Park

Step back in time at this recreated gold mining town with interactive exhibits and steam train rides. Open 9am-5pm.
NZD35, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Whitebait Inn

Taste fresh whitebait fritters and local dishes at this popular coastal restaurant open 12pm-2:30pm.
NZD40, 1h

3:00pm

Pororari River Jet Boating

Exciting river jet boating adventure through limestone gorges. Available tours from 2pm to 4pm, book ahead.
NZD110, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at The Pickled Hog

Relaxed setting offering hearty pub and seafood dishes, open 5pm-9pm.
NZD55, 1h
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 5: Glacier Wonders

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand on September 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Snakebite Brewery & Kitchen

Enjoy a creative breakfast menu and craft beers at this popular local spot, open 8am-3pm.
NZD25, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Scenic 2-hour drive with spectacular West Coast rainforest views.
Transport cost, 2h

11:00am

Franz Josef Glacier Guided Walk

Explore the glacier valley with expert guides explaining the geology, open throughout the day with tours from mid-morning.
NZD60, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Landing Restaurant & Bar

Modern New Zealand dishes with local ingredients, open from 11am to 3pm.
NZD50, 1h

3:00pm

Relaxing visit to Glacier Hot Pools

Soak in warm mineral pools surrounded by rainforest, open 9am-9pm.
NZD30, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Alice May Restaurant

Cozy dining with homemade and locally sourced fare, open evenings 5pm-9pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 6: Fox Glacier and Surrounds

Fox Glacier, New Zealand on September 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kozmoz Cafe

Afternoon favourite for coffee and breakfast treats, open 7:30am to 3pm.
NZD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Fox Glacier

Short 30-minute scenic drive south to Fox Glacier village.
Transport cost, 30m

9:15am

Fox Glacier Guided Glacier Valley Walk

Explore the glacier’s stunning valley with expert commentary, easy access trails. Tours run all day.
NZD65, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The White Pub

Casual, famed for burgers and local beers in Fox Glacier village, open 11am-3pm.
NZD35, 1h

1:30pm

Kayaking on Lake Matheson

Scenic lake paddle with views of Mount Cook and Fox Glacier. Rental shops open 9am-5pm.
NZD50, 2h

5:00pm

Drive to Wanaka

3.5-hour drive to Wanaka for mountain lake scenery and outdoor activities.
Transport cost, 3h30m

8:30pm

Dinner at Kika

Modern New Zealand flavours in a stylish setting, open until late evenings.
NZD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Fox Glacier

Day 7: Wanaka Activities

Wanaka, New Zealand on September 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Relishes Cafe

Quality breakfast and brunch dishes in a bright, welcoming atmosphere, open from 7:30am.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Ziptrek Ecotours Wanaka

Exciting zipline tour through native forest canopy with spectacular lake views. Tours from 9am to 4pm.
NZD110, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Big Fig

Healthy café offering fresh, shared plates and good coffee, open 11am-3pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Wanaka Lavender Farm Visit

Stroll through beautiful lavender fields and shop local lavender products, open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax by Lake Wanaka

Leisurely walk along the shore and visit the famous Wanaka Tree ideal for sunset photography.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Francesca’s Italian Kitchen

Authentic Italian cuisine with lake views, open 5pm-9pm.
NZD65, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 8: Drive to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on September 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Relishes Cafe

Brief breakfast before departure, open 7:30am.
NZD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive Wanaka to Queenstown

1-hour drive via scenic Crown Range Lookout with mountain views.
Transport cost, 1h

10:00am

Skyline Queenstown Gondola & Luge

Ride gondola overlooking Queenstown followed by fun luge rides. Open 9am to late evening.
NZD60, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Iconic Queenstown gourmet burgers, open 9am to late evening.
NZD25, 1h

2:00pm

Shotover Jet Boating

Thrilling high-speed jet boat ride through narrow canyons, tours operate 9am-5:30pm, book ahead.
NZD130, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Queenstown Waterfront

Relax by Lake Wakatipu or browse boutique shops and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Rata

Fine dining with New Zealand ingredients by Michelin-starred chef, open 5:30pm-9pm.
NZD100, 2h
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand on September 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

Trendy breakfast spot with gourmet options and good coffee, open from 7am.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Jetboating on Dart River

Full morning jetboat tour through stunning wilderness, departing 9am and 1pm.
NZD250, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Fergbaker

Casual bakery serving pies, pastries and light meals next to Fergburger, open all day.
NZD20, 45m

3:00pm

Kiwi Birdlife Park

See native bird species and conservation work, open 9am-5pm.
NZD38, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Known for prime cuts and excellent wine list in elegant surroundings, open 5:30pm-9pm.
NZD110, 2h
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 10: Rest and Explore

Queenstown, New Zealand on September 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

Fresh, modern breakfast dishes, open from 7:30am.
NZD25, 1h

10:00am

Queenstown Gardens Walk & Relaxation

Gentle walk through beautiful botanical gardens, free and open daylight hours.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Patagonia Chocolates

Famous desserts and light meals with lake views, open 9am to 5pm.
NZD25, 1h

2:00pm

Relaxing afternoon at hotel or spa

Enjoy a restful afternoon preparing for upcoming travel days.
Varies, 4h

6:30pm

Dinner at Jervois Steak House

Classic New Zealand steakhouse in a cosy environment, open 5:30pm-9pm.
NZD90, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Milford Sound Tour

Te Anau / Milford Sound, New Zealand on September 28, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before transfer to Milford Sound, hotel breakfast hours vary but typically by 7am.
NZD20, 30m

6:30am

Drive to Milford Sound

Start 4-hour scenic drive from Queenstown or Te Anau to Milford Sound with stopovers.
Transport cost, 4h

11:00am

Milford Sound Cruise

Iconic fjord cruise lasting about 2 hours, views of waterfalls, wildlife and Mitre Peak, cruises run all day till late afternoon.
NZD110, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Milford Sound Lodge Cafe

Light lunch with views over the fjord, open 9am-4pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Drive back to Te Anau

Return drive approximately 2 hours to Te Anau village.
Transport cost, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Redcliff Cafe, Te Anau

Casual dining with a variety of New Zealand dishes, open 5pm-8pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Te Anau / Milford Sound

Day 12: Te Anau and Wildlife

Te Anau, New Zealand on September 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sandfly Cafe

Relaxed village café open from 7:30am, great breakfast and coffee.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Fiordland National Park Guided Walk

Explore native forest trails with a knowledgeable guide, bookings recommended. Walks last 2-3 hours.
NZD75, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Olive Tree Cafe

Fresh, seasonal ingredients in hearty meals, open 11am to 3pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Magical boat ride inside caves featuring glowworms, tours run between 12pm and 4pm.
NZD100, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Modern New Zealand cuisine in a friendly setting, open until 9pm.
NZD55, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 13: Journey to Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand on September 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sandfly Cafe

Final breakfast in Te Anau, open from 7:30am.
NZD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Dunedin

Approximate 4.5-hour scenic drive along southern coast via Balclutha.
Transport cost, 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Plato Cafe & Dining

Welcoming café serving fresh local produce, open 12pm-3pm.
NZD35, 1h

3:00pm

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Discover rare penguin, albatross and seal colonies. Tours depart in afternoon, lasts about 3 hours.
NZD110, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Esplanade

Contemporary dining with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce, open 5:30pm-9pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 14: Dunedin City & Culture

Dunedin, New Zealand on October 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Good Oil

Popular brunch spot with hearty options, open 7:30am-3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Larnach Castle & Gardens

New Zealand’s only castle featuring guided tours and expansive gardens open 9:30am-5pm.
NZD45, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Esplanade Cafe

Casual café with local ingredients and ocean views, open 12pm-3pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Dunedin Street Art & Heritage Walk

Self-guided tour through city’s murals, historic buildings and architecture.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Vogel St Kitchen

Highly recommended gourmet eatery focusing on local produce, open 5pm-9pm.
NZD75, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 15: Oamaru and Coastal Drive

Oamaru, New Zealand on October 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Speight’s Ale House Dunedin

Start early with classic breakfast fare, open from 7am.
NZD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Oamaru

One and a half hour drive north along coast to Oamaru.
Transport cost, 1h30m

10:00am

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Great opportunity to see the world’s smallest penguins, guided viewing sessions in late afternoon but visitor centre open daily 9am-5pm.
NZD30, 1h

11:30am

Oamaru Victorian Precinct

Historic precinct with unique shops, galleries and cafes, stroll at leisure.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Steampunk Cafe

Quirky café with themed decor and tasty meals, open 11am-3pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:00pm

Drive back to Christchurch

Approximate 3-hour journey to Christchurch for final part of trip.
Transport cost, 3h

5:30pm

Dinner at Inati Restaurant, Christchurch

Innovative and intimate dining experience featuring shared plates, open from 6pm.
NZD90, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Oamaru

Day 16: Christchurch Rest & Culture

Christchurch, New Zealand on October 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Supreme Supreme

Boutique café with excellent breakfast options, open 7:30am-3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial & Quake City Museum

Pay respects at the memorial and learn about the 2011 earthquake. Quake City open 10am-5pm.
NZD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at New Regent Street

Variety of cafes and restaurants in colourful street open for lunch, try OGB or The Lotus-Heart Cafe.
NZD30, 1h

2:00pm

Christchurch Art Gallery

Explore New Zealand’s premier contemporary art collection, open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Pescatore Restaurant

Upmarket dining with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local ingredients, open 6pm-9pm.
NZD95, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 17: Day Trip Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand on October 4, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for day trip with a quick breakfast, hotel dependent.
NZD20, 30m

7:30am

Drive to Akaroa

Travel about 1.5 hours to Akaroa for a whale watching and cultural day.
Transport cost, 1h30m

9:15am

Akaroa Whale Watching Cruise

Morning wildlife cruise to see Hector’s dolphins and other sea life, runs 9am to noon.
NZD150, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ma Maison

French-inspired cuisine in historic building, open 12pm-3pm.
NZD55, 1h

2:00pm

Walk to Takapuneke Reserve and Maori Cultural Site

Guided tours and interpretive signage giving insight into local Maori settlement.
NZD40, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch for final nights.
Transport cost, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Bloody Mary's

Iconic New Zealand restaurant specialising in seafood, open until late.
NZD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Akaroa

Day 18: Christchurch Leisure Day

Christchurch, New Zealand on October 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Unknown Chapter

Hip café with great brunch menu, open 7:30am-2pm.
NZD25, 1h

10:00am

Christchurch Tram and City Tour

Historic tram ride and city highlights tour, operating 10am–5pm.
NZD40, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant

Delight in fresh NZ produce in a comfortable garden setting, open 12pm-2:30pm.
NZD50, 1h

2:00pm

Canterbury Museum or Air Force Museum

Choose between natural history or aviation museums, both open until 5pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Monday Room

Trendy bar and dining with creative menu, open 5pm-10pm.
NZD65, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 19: Day Trip to Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs, New Zealand on October 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or en route

Grab a takeaway breakfast for road trip or eat early at your accommodation.
NZD20, 30m

8:30am

Drive to Hanmer Springs

About 1.5 hours drive north to alpine spa town known for hot pools.
Transport cost, 1h30m

10:00am

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa

Relax in natural hot pools and spa treatments, open daily 9am-9pm.
NZD40, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Stables Restaurant

Popular eatery offering hearty meals made from fresh local ingredients, open 12pm-2:30pm.
NZD40, 1h

3:00pm

Walk or bike ride in Hanmer Forest

Leisurely explore forest trails to enjoy alpine views and nature.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch for last full night.
Transport cost, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Curator's House

Elegant dining with seasonal menus in a historic building, open 6pm-9pm.
NZD80, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hanmer Springs

Day 20: Departure Prep & Leisure

Christchurch, New Zealand on October 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Black Betty Cafe

Final brunch treat with excellent coffee and meals, open 7am-3pm.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Last-minute shopping at The Tannery

Browse boutique shops and artisan galleries for souvenirs, open 10am-5pm.
Varies, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at C1 Espresso

Return for a favourite cafe experience or relaxed final meal, open 7am-4pm.
NZD30, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at accommodation or city park

Prepare for departure and enjoy your last afternoon in Christchurch.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Celebrate your trip with modern Kiwi cuisine in a stylish setting, open until 9pm.
NZD90, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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