New Zealand Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

• Day 1 - Auckland: Start your adventure with a trip to the Sky Tower for stunning views of the city. Take a stroll along Auckland's waterfront before heading to the Auckland Art Gallery. End the day with a visit to the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge.
• Day 2 - Rotorua: Drive or take a bus to Rotorua to experience the unique geothermal activity in the area. Visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and witness the Lady Knox Geyser eruption. Stop by the Maori village for a cultural performance and traditional Hangi feast.
• Day 3 - Tongariro National Park: Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4 km trail with stunning views of volcanic terrain and beautiful landscapes.
• Day 4 - Wellington: Take the ferry from the South Island to New Zealand's capital city. Visit the Te Papa Museum, stroll through the Botanic Garden, and end the day with a visit to the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes tour of its film production.
• Day 5 - Abel Tasman National Park: Take a bus or drive to the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Go sea kayaking or enjoy a hike along the beautiful coastline.
• Day 6 - Westport: Take a leisurely drive to the charming town of Westport, which is the gateway to the Northern West Coast. Visit the Cape Foulwind seal colony before soaking in the natural hot springs at Kawhia.
• Day 7 - Franz Josef Glacier: Head to Franz Josef Glacier by bus or car and hike to its base. For a unique experience, take a guided heli-hike. Make sure to visit the famous Lake Matheson and walk around its scenic paths.
• Day 8 - Wanaka: Drive to Wanaka to see its stunning scenery, go hike around the Diamond Lake Loop. Take a leisure walk around the Wanaka Tree, and end a day with a drink at the famous Cardrona Hotel.
• Day 9 - Queenstown: Take a bus or drive to Queenstown and experience the adrenaline rush of adventure sports such as bungee jumping, paragliding, and skydiving. Alternatively, visit the historic Arrowtown or take a leisurely hike on the Queenstown Hill track.
• Day 10 - Milford Sound: Take a day tour to the Milford Sound, known for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and diverse marine life. Enjoy a boat cruise, explore the underwater observatory, and hike on the Milford Track.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Sky Tower (1-2 hours, $32)
• Auckland Art Gallery (1-2 hours, free)
• Auckland Harbour Bridge (1-2 hours, $195 for bungy jumping)
• Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (3-4 hours, $32)
• Maori village experience (2-3 hours, $120)
• Tongariro Alpine Crossing (7-8 hours, free)
• Te Papa Museum (2-3 hours, free)
• Botanic Garden (1-2 hours, free)
• Weta Workshop (2-3 hours, $28)
• Abel Tasman National Park (1-2 days, free)
• Cape Foulwind seal colony (1-2 hours, free)
• Franz Josef Glacier (2-3 hours, free)
• Heli-hike (4-5 hours, $485)
• Diamond Lake Loop (1-2 hours, free)
• Cardrona Hotel (1-2 hours, $12-$25 for drinks)
• Adventure sports in Queenstown (varies)
• Arrowtown (1-2 hours, free)
• Queenstown Hill track (2-3 hours, free)
• Milford Sound (1 day, $45-$100 for a day tour)
Total Estimated Costs: $979-$1231

Transportation

Transportation in New Zealand can be relatively expensive, especially if you are planning to rent a car or campervan. However, there are budget-friendly options such as buses and backpacker buses. For instance, the InterCity bus network allows for affordable travel between major cities. If you only have limited time in New Zealand, consider taking domestic flights between major cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown. Domestic airlines such as Air New Zealand, Jetstar and Sounds Air offer numerous flights to and from popular destinations throughout New Zealand.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add an extra day or two in any of the locations and explore the area further. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the locations or shortening a few of the suggested activities. To save on costs, try to book your tours, transport and accommodation in advance. Moreover, opt to cook your own meals or look for budget-friendly eateries to save on food costs. Finally, bring comfortable footwear, layers of clothing, and insect repellant as these will be helpful throughout your trip.