New Zealand: A 7-Day Action and Adventure Packed Itinerary

  • Day 1: Auckland
    5 hours (200 km) from Wellington

    Start your adventure in Auckland by exploring the city's vibrant culture and cuisine. Visit Skytower Auckland for stunning panoramic views of the city and harbor below. Afterwards, head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum to discover the history and traditions of the region's Māori people. End your day by indulging in a delicious meal at Taste of Auckland, where you'll be able to try a variety of local dishes.

  • Day 2: Queenstown
    2 hours (150 km) from Milford Sound

    Fly to Queenstown for a day of thrilling adventure. Start your day early by experiencing the thrill of a lifetime with a skydive to see the most stunning views of the Southern Alps. Afterwards, head to Milford Sound to take a scenic boat tour and be awestruck by the beauty of this natural wonder. Finish off your day by catching a performance at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, featuring some of New Zealand's most talented artists.

  • Day 3: Wellington
    1 hour (95 km) from Martinborough

    Fly to Wellington and visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa to learn about the country's history, society, and culture. Experience the magic of the Carter Observatory. End the day with a visit to the Wellington Night Market, where you can mix and mingle with locals while trying out delicious street food.

  • Day 4: Rotorua
    4 hours (350 km) from Wellington

    Start your day in Rotorua by visiting the Tamaki Maori Village, where you'll be able to take part in an authentic cultural experience. Afterwards, head to the Te Puia Thermal Reserve to see geysers, hot springs, and mud pools. Finish off your day with a relaxing visit to the Polynesian Spa, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in mineral-rich pools.

  • Day 5: Napier
    4 hours (340 km) from Rotorua

    Head to Napier, a town known for its beautifully restored Art Deco architecture. Start your day by exploring the local cafés and shops before visiting the National Aquarium of New Zealand to see a variety of marine life. End your day with a glass of wine from one of the region's many vineyards, such as the Church Road Winery.

  • Day 6: Christchurch
    5 hours (440 km) from Napier

    Fly to Christchurch and start your day by visiting the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through beautiful gardens and landscapes. Afterwards, head to the International Antarctic Centre to learn about and explore one of the world's most fascinating regions. End your day by indulging in a delicious meal at the renowned Pegasus Bay Winery.

  • Day 7: Wanaka
    4 hours (330 km) from Christchurch

    End your trip with a visit to Wanaka, a charming town surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. Start your day with a light breakfast and then head to Puzzling World, where you'll be able to challenge your mind with a variety of puzzles and illusions. Afterwards, take a hike to see the beautiful Roy's Peak or take a scenic drive to Mount Aspiring National Park. End your day by dining at the lovely Amigos Mexican Grill Wanaka.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Skytower Auckland (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum (2-3 hours, $25)
  • Taste of Auckland (1-3 hours, $30-50)
  • Skydive (2-3 hours, $350)
  • Milford Sound boat tour (2-3 hours, $100-200)
  • Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (2-3 hours, $20)
  • Carter Observatory (1-2 hours, $15)
  • Wellington Night Market (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Tamaki Maori Village (2-3 hours, $100-200)
  • Te Puia Thermal Reserve (1-2 hours, $40)
  • Polynesian Spa (2-3 hours, $50-100)
  • National Aquarium of New Zealand (1-2 hours, $25)
  • Church Road Winery (1-2 hours, $50-100)
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens (1-2 hours, free)
  • International Antarctic Centre (2-3 hours, $40-60)
  • Pegasus Bay Winery (1-3 hours, $50-100)
  • Puzzling World (1-2 hours, $20)
  • Roy's Peak hike (4-5 hours, free)
  • Mount Aspiring National Park scenic drive (4-5 hours, free)
  • Amigos Mexican Grill Wanaka (1-2 hours, $20-40)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding flights and accommodations): $1060-$1820

Transportation

While New Zealand is a small country, getting around can take time due to its unique geography. You can choose to take flights between major cities or rent a car to explore at your own pace. Public transportation is also available in many areas, but may not always be convenient. Be sure to budget for transportation costs accordingly.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set or doing a glacier hike in the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier area. If you have less time, consider skipping Napier and heading straight to Christchurch. Keep in mind that New Zealand is known for its unpredictable weather, so be sure to pack accordingly and check the forecast before embarking on outdoor activities.

Airports

Auckland Airport (AKL) is the largest airport in New Zealand and is located in the city of Auckland, approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) from the city center. Wellington International Airport (WLG) is located in the suburb of Rongotai, approximately 6 kilometers (4 miles) southeast of the city center. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located in the suburb of Harewood, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center. Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center and services domestic and international flights.

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