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Adventure, Nature, Relaxation Road Trip in New Zealand South Island
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Adventure, Nature, Relaxation Road Trip in New Zealand South Island
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Day 1: Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand on June 4, 2024
8:00AM
Breakfast at C1 Espresso
Start your day with innovative dishes served through pneumatic tubes at C1 Espresso, a unique dining experience.
C1 Espresso is located in the city centre, easily accessible from most accommodations.
25 NZD, 1 hour
10:00AM
Botanic Gardens
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis with a variety of plants and walking paths.
A short drive or walk from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Little High Eatery
Enjoy a mix of international cuisines at Little High Eatery, a vibrant food court with options for everyone.
Located in the city centre, a short distance from the Botanic Gardens.
30 NZD, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Christchurch Gondola
Take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola for panoramic views of the city, Southern Alps, and Canterbury Plains.
A scenic drive or shuttle ride from the city centre.
30 NZD, 1.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar
Indulge in a delicious dinner at Fiddlesticks, known for its cozy atmosphere and modern New Zealand cuisine.
Located in the city centre, perfect for an evening meal.
50 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
Day 2: Lake Tekapo Serenity
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on June 5, 2024
8:00AM
Drive to Lake Tekapo
Embark on a scenic drive to Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.
Approximately 3 hours drive from Christchurch via State Highway 8.
Car rental cost, 3 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Kohan Restaurant
Enjoy a lakeside lunch at Kohan Restaurant, offering Japanese and New Zealand fusion cuisine with breathtaking views.
Located by the lake, a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
40 NZD, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Lake Tekapo Scenic Walks
Explore the walking trails around Lake Tekapo, taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and lupine fields.
Various walking tracks accessible from the town centre.
Free, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Mackenzie's Bar & Grill
Dine at Mackenzie's for a taste of local cuisine and stunning views of the lake and mountains as the sun sets.
Located in the town centre, offering a relaxing dining experience.
45 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo
Day 3: Adventure in Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand on June 6, 2024
8:00AM
Drive to Queenstown
Embark on a scenic drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, surrounded by mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
Approximately 3.5 hours drive from Lake Tekapo via State Highway 8 and State Highway 6.
Car rental cost, 3.5 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Fergburger
Satisfy your hunger with a famous Fergburger, a must-try in Queenstown known for its delicious gourmet burgers.
Located in the town centre, be prepared for queues during peak times.
20 NZD, 1 hour
2:00PM
Skyline Queenstown
Take the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views of Queenstown and enjoy activities like luge rides and stargazing at night.
Accessible from the town centre, with shuttle options available.
60 NZD, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner Cruise on TSS Earnslaw
Experience a scenic dinner cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, a unique dining experience.
Departure from Queenstown's waterfront, offering stunning views of the Remarkables.
100 NZD, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown
Day 4: Explore Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand on June 7, 2024
9:00AM
Shotover Jet Boat Ride
Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River, experiencing spins and speed in a spectacular canyon setting.
Transfer provided from the town centre to the Shotover River site.
150 NZD, 1 hour
12:00PM
Lunch at Pedro's House of Lamb
Indulge in a signature dish of succulent lamb shoulder at Pedro's, a hidden gem for meat lovers in Queenstown.
Located near the town centre, offering a unique dining experience.
35 NZD, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley
Explore the nearby Gibbston Valley wine region with a wine tasting tour, known for its Pinot Noir and stunning vineyard landscapes.
Tour options available from Queenstown with transportation provided.
80 NZD, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner at The Cow Restaurant
Enjoy a cosy dinner at The Cow, a rustic Italian restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and hearty pasta dishes.
Located in the town centre, perfect for a comforting meal.
50 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown
Day 5: Fiordland National Park Exploration
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand on June 8, 2024
8:00AM
Drive to Fiordland National Park
Embark on a scenic drive to Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Approximately 4 hours drive from Queenstown via State Highway 6, offering stunning views along the way.
Car rental cost, 4 hours
12:00PM
Cruise on Milford Sound
Experience the beauty of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls, and marine life.
Cruise departures available from the Milford Sound Visitor Centre, providing an unforgettable experience.
120 NZD, 2 hours
3:00PM
Nature Walks in Fiordland
Explore the lush rainforests and stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park with short nature walks like the Chasm Walk or Lake Marian Track.
Various walking tracks accessible from key points within the park.
Free, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Kepler Restaurant
Enjoy a hearty meal at Kepler Restaurant, offering a mix of local seafood and international dishes in a cosy setting.
Located near Te Anau, perfect for a relaxing dinner after a day of exploration.
60 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Fiordland National Park
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More About New Zealand South Island
7-Day North & South Island, New Zealand — End of October 2025
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14‑Day New Zealand — North & South Island (October)
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Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
March 9, 2024
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