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A Week of Family Fun in New Zealand

Saturday, October 14: Arrival in Auckland

Welcome to New Zealand! Start your adventure in Auckland, the largest city in the country. In the morning, visit the Auckland Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Spend the afternoon exploring the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which offers fascinating exhibits on New Zealand's history and culture. In the evening, take a stroll along the waterfront at Wynyard Quarter and enjoy dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants.

  • Auckland Zoo: $25 per adult, $12.50 per child | 3-4 hours
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum: $25 per adult, free for children | 2-3 hours
  • Wynyard Quarter: Free | 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 15: Rotorua

Head to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Start your day with a visit to Te Puia, where you can see bubbling mud pools and the famous Pohutu Geyser. In the afternoon, explore the interactive exhibits at the Rotorua Museum or go for a family hike in the Redwood Forest. In the evening, relax and unwind at the Polynesian Spa, known for its hot mineral pools.

  • Te Puia: $51 per adult, $25.50 per child | 3-4 hours
  • Rotorua Museum: $20 per adult, free for children | 2-3 hours
  • Redwood Forest: Free | 1-2 hours
  • Polynesian Spa: $30 per adult, $15 per child | 2-3 hours
Monday, October 16: Waitomo Caves

Embark on an underground adventure at the Waitomo Caves. In the morning, take a guided tour through the Glowworm Grotto and marvel at the magical glowworms illuminating the caves. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch in the scenic Waitomo countryside. In the afternoon, explore the Ruakuri Bushwalk or go black water rafting for an adrenaline-filled experience.

  • Waitomo Caves: $51 per adult, $23 per child | 2-3 hours
  • Ruakuri Bushwalk: Free | 1-2 hours
  • Black Water Rafting: $125 per adult, $85 per child | 3-4 hours
Tuesday, October 17: Wellington

Travel to the vibrant capital city of Wellington. Start your day at the Wellington Cable Car, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and visit the Cable Car Museum. In the afternoon, explore the interactive exhibits at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along Oriental Parade and watch the sunset.

  • Wellington Cable Car: $7 per adult, $3.50 per child | 1-2 hours
  • Te Papa Tongarewa: Free (donations appreciated) | 2-3 hours
  • Oriental Parade: Free | 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Nelson

Fly to Nelson, a picturesque city located on the South Island. In the morning, visit the World of WearableArt and Classic Car Museum, where you can admire imaginative wearable art creations and vintage automobiles. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, with its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely boat cruise or go kayaking with the family. Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the local restaurants.

  • World of WearableArt and Classic Car Museum: $24 per adult, $10 per child | 2-3 hours
  • Abel Tasman National Park: Free (some activities require fees) | 4-5 hours
Thursday, October 19: Queenstown

Fly to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. In the morning, take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River, zooming through narrow canyons and performing adrenaline-pumping maneuvers. In the afternoon, ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Enjoy dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants in the Queenstown Gardens area.

  • Shotover Jet: $145 per adult, $75 per child | 2-3 hours
  • Skyline Queenstown Gondola: $44 per adult, $22 per child | 2-3 hours
Friday, October 20: Milford Sound

Embark on a scenic journey to Milford Sound, known for its breathtaking fjords. Take a full-day tour from Queenstown and cruise through stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, towering peaks, and wildlife sightings. Marvel at the beauty of Mitre Peak and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Return to Queenstown in the evening and have a relaxing dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Milford Sound Tour: $200 per adult, $45 per child | 9-10 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata, where you can explore the real-life Shire from the Lord of the Rings films. Another gem is the Pukaha National Wildlife Centre in Masterton, which offers the chance to see native wildlife up close, including kiwis. Families also love the Hamilton Gardens, featuring themed gardens and interactive exhibits for kids. These attractions provide unique experiences away from the usual tourist spots.

Before planning your trip, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK. Enjoy your family-friendly adventure in beautiful New Zealand!

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