Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 61 travelers

Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in New Zealand

Wednesday, December 20: Auckland

Start your trip in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. In the morning, visit the Auckland Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits. Afterward, head to Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium to explore the underwater world. In the evening, take a stroll along the Viaduct Harbour and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants.

  • Auckland Zoo: Estimated cost: $25 per adult, $12 per child | Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium: Estimated cost: $39 per adult, $22 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Viaduct Harbour: Free admission | Estimated time spent: Evening
Thursday, December 21: Rotorua

Embark on a journey to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture. Start your morning with a visit to Te Puia, a geothermal park where you can witness Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Spend the afternoon at Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you can interact with native wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Maori cultural performance and feast.

  • Te Puia: Estimated cost: $51 per adult, $25 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Rainbow Springs Nature Park: Estimated cost: $40 per adult, $20 per child | Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Maori Cultural Performance: Estimated cost: $110 per adult, $55 per child | Estimated time spent: Evening
Friday, December 22: Taupo

Make your way to Taupo, a stunning lakeside town. Start your day with a visit to the Huka Falls, where you can witness the powerful turquoise waters. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise on Lake Taupo and explore the Maori rock carvings. End the day with a soak in the natural hot pools at the Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort.

  • Huka Falls: Free admission | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Lake Taupo Cruise: Estimated cost: $35 per adult, $15 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort: Estimated cost: $25 per adult, $10 per child | Estimated time spent: Evening
Saturday, December 23: Wellington

Head to Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Start your morning with a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, where you can learn about the country's history and culture. In the afternoon, ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Garden and enjoy the panoramic views. End the day with a walk along Oriental Parade and watch the sunset.

  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: Free admission (donations appreciated) | Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Wellington Cable Car: Estimated cost: $9 per adult, $4 per child | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Oriental Parade: Free admission | Estimated time spent: Evening
Sunday, December 24: Nelson

Travel to Nelson, a vibrant city surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Start your day with a visit to the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, showcasing unique art and classic cars. In the afternoon, explore the Nelson Lakes National Park and enjoy a picnic by the crystal-clear Lake Rotoiti. End the day with a leisurely stroll along Tahunanui Beach.

  • World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum: Estimated cost: $24 per adult, $10 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Nelson Lakes National Park: Free admission | Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Tahunanui Beach: Free admission | Estimated time spent: Evening
Monday, December 25: Christchurch

On Christmas Day, explore the beautiful city of Christchurch. Start your morning with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre, where you can experience an Antarctic storm and meet penguins. In the afternoon, take a punt ride on the Avon River and admire the picturesque Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a festive Christmas dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • International Antarctic Centre: Estimated cost: $59 per adult, $35 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Avon River Punting: Estimated cost: $30 per adult, $15 per child | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Botanic Gardens: Free admission | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Queenstown

Conclude your trip in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River. In the afternoon, take a gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu. End the day with a visit to the Kiwi Birdlife Park to see New Zealand's native wildlife.

  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride: Estimated cost: $149 per adult, $79 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Skyline Queenstown: Estimated cost: $44 per adult, $22 per child | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kiwi Birdlife Park: Estimated cost: $54 per adult, $29 per child | Estimated time spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring New Zealand, don't miss out on some hidden gems and local favorites. In Auckland, visit Piha Beach for its stunning black sand and natural beauty. In Rotorua, take a trip to the Redwoods Treewalk and experience a magical walkway among the giant trees. In Nelson, explore the Founders Heritage Park, a living museum showcasing the region's history. These attractions provide unique experiences and are perfect for families.

Check hotel and flight prices here

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version