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Adventurous 7-Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary

Monday December 25: Queenstown

Start your adventure in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. In the morning, kick-off your trip with a thrilling bungee jump at the iconic Kawarau Bridge. Afterward, head to the Shotover River for an exhilarating jet boat ride through the stunning canyons. In the evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown for breathtaking views and indulge in a mouthwatering buffet dinner.

  • Kawarau Bridge Bungee Jump: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride: Cost varies, approximately 1.5 hours
  • Skyline Queenstown: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Tuesday December 26: Fiordland National Park

Embark on a full-day adventure to Fiordland National Park. In the morning, take a scenic drive to Milford Sound and enjoy a captivating cruise through the breathtaking fjords, surrounded by majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls. In the afternoon, explore the stunning hiking trails of the park, such as the Key Summit Track, offering panoramic views of the surrounding alpine scenery. Spend the evening stargazing at the Te Anau Dark Sky Reserve.

  • Milford Sound Cruise: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
  • Hiking in Fiordland National Park: Free, time varies
  • Stargazing in Te Anau Dark Sky Reserve: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Wednesday December 27: Wanaka

Head to the scenic town of Wanaka for a day filled with adventure. Start your morning with a thrilling skydiving experience, offering breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. In the afternoon, take a scenic hike to the famous Roy's Peak, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakes. End your day with a relaxing visit to the Wanaka Lavender Farm.

  • Skydiving in Wanaka: Cost varies, approximately 3 hours
  • Roy's Peak Hike: Free, approximately 5-6 hours
  • Wanaka Lavender Farm: Entry fee varies, approximately 1 hour
Thursday December 28: Franz Josef Glacier

Travel to Franz Josef Glacier, one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders. Start your day with an unforgettable heli-hike experience on the glacier, where you'll explore ice caves, crevasses, and stunning ice formations. In the afternoon, relax at the Glacier Hot Pools, surrounded by lush rainforest. Enjoy the evening with a scenic walk to the Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint.

  • Heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier: Cost varies, approximately 4 hours
  • Glacier Hot Pools: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
  • Franz Josef Glacier Viewpoint Walk: Free, approximately 1 hour
Friday December 29: Mount Cook National Park

Make your way to Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak. Start your day with a scenic helicopter flight over the park, showcasing the breathtaking alpine landscapes. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling kayaking adventure on the glacial Lake Pukaki, surrounded by stunning turquoise waters. Enjoy the evening stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

  • Helicopter Flight over Mount Cook: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
  • Kayaking on Lake Pukaki: Cost varies, approximately 3 hours
  • Stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
  • The Hermitage Hotel offers a hearty breakfast buffet with a variety of hot and cold options. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
  • For lunch, head to Panorama Restaurant for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while enjoying dishes made with fresh locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
  • For dinner, The Old Mountaineers Cafe, Bar & Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic New Zealand cuisine like lamb shank and seafood chowder. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Saturday December 30: Queenstown (Glenorchy)

Return to Queenstown for an adventurous day trip to Glenorchy. Start your day with an exhilarating jet boat ride on the Dart River, taking you through breathtaking landscapes featured in "The Lord of the Rings" movies. In the afternoon, explore the stunning hiking trails of Glenorchy, such as the Routeburn Track, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes. Enjoy the evening with a relaxing horse trek through the scenic landscapes.

  • Dart River Jet Boat Ride: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
  • Hiking in Glenorchy: Free, time varies
  • Horse Trekking in Glenorchy: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Sunday December 31: Christchurch

Conclude your adventurous journey in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. In the morning, take a leisurely punt ride on the Avon River, passing through the picturesque Botanic Gardens. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant street art scene in the city, visiting spots like the SALT District and the Isaac Theatre Royal. Welcome the New Year with a celebratory dinner at one of the city's fantastic restaurants.

  • Punting on the Avon River: Cost varies, approximately 1 hour
  • Exploring Christchurch Street Art: Free, time varies
  • New Year's Eve Dinner: Cost varies, time varies
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at C1 Espresso, known for its unique pneumatic tube delivery system. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • For lunch, head to Little High Eatery, a vibrant food court with a range of cuisines to choose from. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
  • In the evening, indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at Twenty Seven Steps, a cozy restaurant offering a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers looking to venture off the beaten path, don't miss the opportunity to go heli-skiing in Queenstown or Wanaka, where you'll experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding untouched slopes accessible only by helicopter. Another hidden gem is the Catlins, located on the southeastern coast of the South Island. Explore the rugged coastline, stunning waterfalls, and encounter unique wildlife like seals, dolphins, and penguins.

Check out Kayak for hotel and flight prices.

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