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7-Day Adventure, Nature, Relaxation Road Trip in New Zealand South Island
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7-Day Adventure, Nature, Relaxation Road Trip in New Zealand South Island
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Day 1: Adventure Begins in Wanaka
Wanaka, New Zealand on June 4, 2024
7:00AM
Sunrise Kayaking on Lake Wanaka
Start the day with a serene sunrise kayaking session on Lake Wanaka, soaking in the beauty of the peaceful surroundings.
Head to the Lake Wanaka waterfront for a calming kayaking experience under the rising sun.
60 NZD, 2 hours
9:00AM
Rob Roy Glacier Track Hike
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike along the Rob Roy Glacier Track, surrounded by majestic alpine landscapes.
Drive to the trailhead for Rob Roy Glacier Track to commence a memorable hiking adventure.
Free, 4 hours
1:00PM
Picnic Lunch at Glendhu Bay
Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch at the scenic Glendhu Bay, appreciating the tranquillity of the lakeside setting.
Drive to Glendhu Bay for a peaceful lakeside picnic amidst nature's serenity.
20 NZD, 1 hour
3:00PM
Wanaka Lavender Farm Visit
Explore the fragrant Wanaka Lavender Farm, wandering through lavender fields and enjoying the calming scent of lavender.
Take a short drive to Wanaka Lavender Farm for a tranquil botanical experience.
15 NZD, 1.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Bistro Gentil
Indulge in a sophisticated dinner at Bistro Gentil, savouring French-inspired cuisine made with local New Zealand produce.
Conclude the day with a fine dining experience at Bistro Gentil, enjoying refined flavours and elegant ambiance.
80 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka
Day 2: Lake Wanaka Morning & Franz Josef Adventure
Wanaka to Franz Josef on June 5, 2024
6:00AM
Sunrise Yoga at Lake Wanaka
Welcome the day with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session by the tranquil shores of Lake Wanaka, connecting mind and body.
Enjoy a calming yoga practice at Lake Wanaka to kickstart the morning with positivity.
Free, 1 hour
8:00AM
Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Hike
Embark on a scenic hike to Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain, offering panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
Drive to the trailhead for Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain hike for an elevated nature experience.
Free, 3.5 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Relishes Café
Enjoy a delightful lunch at Relishes Café, renowned for its fresh seasonal menu and charming lakeside views.
Savour a flavoursome lakeside lunch at Relishes Café in Wanaka to rejuvenate for the journey ahead.
40 NZD, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Scenic Drive via Haast Pass
Embark on a breathtaking drive through Haast Pass, marveling at cascading waterfalls, rugged terrain, and lush rainforests.
Drive through Haast Pass towards Franz Josef, embracing the awe-inspiring natural beauty along the route.
Fuel Cost, 5 hours
8:00PM
Dinner at Alice May
Relish a hearty dinner at Alice May, a cozy restaurant in Franz Josef known for its warm ambiance and locally sourced ingredients.
End the day with a comforting dinner at the welcoming Alice May in Franz Josef, savoring the flavors of the region.
60 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka to Franz Josef
Day 3: Glacier Exploration in Franz Josef
Franz Josef, New Zealand on June 6, 2024
7:00AM
Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk
Embark on a guided Glacier Valley Walk to explore the remarkable landscapes surrounding the stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Join a guided Glacier Valley Walk to discover the natural wonders of Franz Josef Glacier's surroundings.
100 NZD, 3 hours
11:00AM
Heli-Hike on Franz Josef Glacier
Experience the thrill of a heli-hiking adventure on Franz Josef Glacier, trekking through ice formations and crevasses.
Prepare for an exhilarating heli-hiking journey on Franz Josef Glacier, showcasing the icy marvels from above.
400 NZD, 4 hours
4:00PM
Relaxing Time at Glacier Hot Pools
Unwind and rejuvenate at the tranquil Glacier Hot Pools, soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters surrounded by nature.
Immerse in relaxation at Glacier Hot Pools in Franz Josef, enjoying the soothing waters amidst scenic beauty.
50 NZD, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner at The Landing Bar & Restaurant
Enjoy a dinner with a view at The Landing Bar & Restaurant, savoring delectable local dishes while admiring the glacier vistas.
Delight in a scenic dining experience at The Landing Bar & Restaurant in Franz Josef, coupling great food with stunning glacier views.
70 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef
Day 4: Coastal Charm in Nelson
Nelson, New Zealand on June 7, 2024
8:00AM
Abel Tasman National Park Cruise
Embark on a scenic cruise through Abel Tasman National Park, exploring golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests.
Start the day with a captivating cruise through Abel Tasman National Park, immersing in its natural wonders.
120 NZD, 4 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at The Boatshed Café & Bistro
Indulge in a gourmet lunch at The Boatshed Café & Bistro, overlooking the marina and serving fresh seafood delights.
Treat your taste buds to a delightful seafood lunch at The Boatshed Café & Bistro in Nelson.
60 NZD, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum
Discover the innovative designs at the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, showcasing unique fashion and classic cars.
Explore the creative exhibits at the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, delving into a world of imagination.
30 NZD, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery
Savour an exquisite seafood dinner at Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery, a popular spot for fresh oysters and seafood platters.
Dine on delectable seafood specialties at Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery, celebrating the flavours of the coast.
80 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson
Day 5: Marine Marvels in Kaikoura
Kaikoura, New Zealand on June 8, 2024
8:00AM
Seal Swim Encounter
Partake in a thrilling seal swim encounter, getting up close with playful seals in their natural environment.
Embark on an exciting seal swim encounter experience in Kaikoura for a memorable underwater adventure.
150 NZD, 2 hours
11:00AM
Whale Watching Flight
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching flight over Kaikoura, spotting majestic whales swimming in the ocean below.
Take to the skies on a mesmerizing whale watching flight over Kaikoura, witnessing the ocean giants from above.
200 NZD, 1.5 hours
1:30PM
Lunch at The Craypot
Enjoy a delectable seafood lunch at The Craypot, a cozy eatery offering fresh crayfish and local seafood delicacies.
Relish a charming seafood lunch at The Craypot in Kaikoura, immersing in coastal flavours.
70 NZD, 1 hour
3:00PM
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Take a leisurely stroll along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline and spotting seals and birdlife.
Embark on a scenic walk along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, embracing nature's beauty and wildlife sightings.
Free, 1.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at The Pier Hotel Restaurant & Bar
Relax with a delicious dinner at The Pier Hotel Restaurant & Bar, known for its seafood specialties and stunning sea views.
Wind down with a fulfilling dinner at The Pier Hotel Restaurant & Bar in Kaikoura, enjoying coastal dining at its best.
90 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura
Day 6: Harbour Exploration in Akaroa
Akaroa, New Zealand on June 9, 2024
7:00AM
Sunrise Dolphin Cruise
Embark on a magical sunrise dolphin cruise in Akaroa Harbour, encountering playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Start the day with an enchanting dolphin cruise in Akaroa Harbour, witnessing marine wonders at sunrise.
100 NZD, 2 hours
10:00AM
Akaroa Lighthouse Walk
Explore the historic Akaroa Lighthouse on a scenic walk, overlooking the picturesque coastline and harbour.
Embark on a picturesque walk to Akaroa Lighthouse, enjoying panoramic views of the seascape.
Free, 1 hour
12:00PM
Lunch at Ma Maison
Indulge in a gourmet lunch at Ma Maison, a charming French-style restaurant offering delectable dishes and harbor views.
Savour a delightful lunch at Ma Maison in Akaroa, sipping French elegance and enjoying coastal vistas.
70 NZD, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Harbour Kayaking Expedition
Embark on an adventurous kayaking expedition in Akaroa Harbour, paddling through crystal-clear waters and spotting diverse marine life.
Set off on an exciting kayaking adventure in Akaroa Harbour, exploring the coastal wonders from the water.
80 NZD, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar
Relish a sumptuous dinner at Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar, a lively waterfront eatery offering tasty seafood dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Conclude the day with a satisfying meal at Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar in Akaroa, celebrating the local culinary scene.
80 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Akaroa
Day 7: Culture & Art in Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand on June 10, 2024
8:00AM
Christchurch Street Art Tour
Embark on a guided street art tour in Christchurch, exploring vibrant murals and creative expressions across the city.
Embark on a guided street art tour in Christchurch to discover the city's dynamic urban art scene.
30 NZD, 2 hours
11:00AM
Canterbury Museum Visit
Explore the fascinating exhibits at Canterbury Museum, delving into the heritage, culture, and natural history of the region.
Discover the treasures of Canterbury Museum in Christchurch, immersing in diverse exhibitions and collections.
20 NZD, 2 hours
1:30PM
Lunch at C1 Espresso
Enjoy a quirky lunch experience at C1 Espresso, a unique café known for its innovative pneumatic food delivery system.
Delight in a creative lunch at C1 Espresso in Christchurch, experiencing fun food delivery in a retro ambiance.
30 NZD, 1 hour
3:00PM
Botanic Gardens Biking
Cycle through the scenic Christchurch Botanic Gardens on a biking adventure, exploring the lush greenery and vibrant floral displays.
Embark on a biking journey through Christchurch Botanic Gardens, enjoying the natural beauty on two wheels.
20 NZD, 1.5 hours
5:00PM
Shopping at The Tannery
Indulge in some retail therapy at The Tannery, a boutique shopping destination offering unique gifts, fashion, and artisanal items.
Explore the charming boutiques at The Tannery in Christchurch for a rewarding shopping spree.
Variable, 2 hours
7:30PM
Farewell Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps
Celebrate the end of the journey with a memorable farewell dinner at Twenty Seven Steps, a culinary gem with a cozy dining atmosphere.
Conclude the New Zealand adventure with an unforgettable farewell dinner at Twenty Seven Steps, relishing the last flavors of the trip.
100 NZD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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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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