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7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Queenstown and Christchurch

Friday January 12: Arrival in Queenstown

Welcome to Queenstown! Begin your trip by checking in at a family-friendly hotel. Spend the morning exploring the Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful park with walking trails and a playground. In the afternoon, take a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. For the evening, stroll along the waterfront and find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner.

  • Queenstown Gardens: Free, 2 hours
  • Skyline Gondola: $40 per adult, $20 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Waterfront Dining: $15-$50 per person, 1-2 hours
Saturday January 13: Adventure in Queenstown

Get ready for some adrenaline-filled activities! Start your morning with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River. In the afternoon, visit Kiwi Birdlife Park and get up close with New Zealand's native birds and wildlife. For the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Queenstown, exploring the shops, cafes, and entertainment options.

  • Shotover Jet: $149 per adult, $89 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Kiwi Birdlife Park: $54 per adult, $12 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Queenstown: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday January 14: Day Trip to Milford Sound

Embark on a scenic day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most breathtaking destinations. Start early and join a guided tour or drive yourself along the scenic route. Marvel at the stunning fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife. Take a cruise to get an up-close view of the majestic landscape. Return to Queenstown in the evening.

  • Day Trip to Milford Sound: $150-$200 per person, 10-12 hours
Monday January 15: Transfer to Christchurch

Check out from your Queenstown accommodation and hop on a domestic flight to Christchurch. Once in Christchurch, settle in at a family-friendly hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to beautiful plants, trees, and walking paths. In the evening, visit the International Antarctic Centre and learn about the fascinating Antarctic region.

  • Flight to Christchurch: Prices vary, approximately 1.5 hours
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
  • International Antarctic Centre: $59 per adult, $29 per child, 2-3 hours
Tuesday January 16: Discover Christchurch

Start your day by visiting the Canterbury Museum, where you can learn about the history, culture, and natural heritage of New Zealand. In the afternoon, explore the quirky and colorful streets of the Christchurch Art Centre, filled with boutique shops and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing punt ride along the Avon River, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

  • Canterbury Museum: Free (donations appreciated), 2-3 hours
  • Christchurch Art Centre: Free (some activities additional cost), 2-3 hours
  • Punt Ride on Avon River: $30 per adult, $10 per child, 1 hour
Wednesday January 17: Wildlife Encounters

Get ready to meet some furry and feathered friends! Begin your day with a visit to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where you can see and interact with a variety of native New Zealand animals. In the afternoon, head to the Orana Wildlife Park and experience the thrill of close encounters with lions, giraffes, and other exotic animals. Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: $35 per adult, $10 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Orana Wildlife Park: $37 per adult, $19 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Family-friendly Dinner: $15-$50 per person, 1-2 hours
Thursday January 18: Explore Christchurch's History

Delve into the history of Christchurch by visiting the Christchurch Tramway, a heritage tram that takes you on a tour of the city's landmarks. Explore the Christchurch Cathedral and learn about its significance. In the afternoon, take a leisurely punting tour on the Avon River or visit the Quake City museum to understand the impact of the earthquakes. End your trip with a delicious dinner in the vibrant city center.

  • Christchurch Tramway: $25 per adult, $12.50 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Christchurch Cathedral: Free (donations appreciated), 1-2 hours
  • Punting Tour/Quake City: $30 per adult, $10 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Vibrant City Center Dining: $15-$50 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly adventure off the beaten path, head to the Cardboard Cathedral in Christchurch. This temporary cathedral, made primarily of cardboard, is a symbol of the city's resilience after the earthquakes. Don't miss the Margaret Mahy Playground, the largest playground in the Southern Hemisphere, featuring imaginative play areas, a flying fox, and water play.

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