How many days do you need in New Zealand South Island?

This itinerary covers 7 days in New Zealand South Island, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for New Zealand South Island?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to New Zealand South Island. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family-Friendly Biking Adventure in New Zealand's South Island

Day 1: Lake Tekapo Exploration

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Greedy Cow Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before exploring Lake Tekapo.

30 NZD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Bike around Lake Tekapo

Rent bikes and enjoy a leisurely ride around the stunning Lake Tekapo, soaking in the turquoise waters and mountain views.

20 NZD per hour, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Astro Cafe

Grab lunch with a view of the lake and surrounding mountains at Astro Cafe.

40 NZD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stargazing at Mt. John Observatory

Visit the observatory for a family-friendly stargazing experience in the evening.

50 NZD per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 2: Lake Tekapo Relaxation

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

9:00AM

Morning Walk along the Lake

Start your day with a peaceful walk along the lake, enjoying the crisp morning air and scenic beauty.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tekapo Springs

Relax and have fun at Tekapo Springs, which offers hot pools, water slides, and ice skating depending on the season.

60 NZD per person, 3 hours

2:00PM

Picnic by the Lake

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, soaking in the tranquility and beauty of Lake Tekapo.

20 NZD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Maori Rock Art Tour

Embark on a guided tour to see Maori rock art in the area, learning about the indigenous culture and history.

30 NZD per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 3: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Embark on a scenic drive from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.

50 NZD for gas, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in the famous Fergburger for a delicious and filling lunch in Queenstown.

20 NZD per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bike Ride along Queenstown Trail

Rent bikes and explore the family-friendly Queenstown Trail, offering scenic views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.

25 NZD per hour, 2 hours

5:00PM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take a gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

40 NZD per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 4: Queenstown Excursion

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Jet Boat Ride on Shotover River

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride on the Shotover River, twisting through canyons and enjoying the adrenaline rush.

100 NZD per person, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Patagonia Chocolates

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a lunch at Patagonia Chocolates, known for their delicious desserts and hot chocolate.

30 NZD per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Family Hike up Queenstown Hill

Embark on a family-friendly hike up Queenstown Hill for panoramic views of the town and Lake Wakatipu.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Public Kitchen

Enjoy a cozy family dinner at Public Kitchen, known for its locally sourced ingredients and vibrant atmosphere.

50 NZD per person, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 5: Wanaka Wander

Wanaka, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Embark on a scenic drive from Queenstown to Wanaka, passing by Lake Hawea and picturesque landscapes.

30 NZD for gas, 2 hours

11:00AM

Puzzling World

Explore Puzzling World, a fun and interactive attraction with optical illusions and a maze for the family to enjoy.

40 NZD per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Big Fig

Savor a delicious lunch at Big Fig, offering fresh and flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting.

25 NZD per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bike Ride along Lake Wanaka

Rent bikes and cycle along the picturesque Lake Wanaka, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings.

20 NZD per hour, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 6: Glacier Discovery

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Embark on a scenic drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier, passing through the stunning West Coast landscapes.

50 NZD for gas, 4 hours

1:00PM

Glacier Helicopter Tour

Experience a thrilling helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier, marveling at the icy landscapes from above.

250 NZD per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Glacier Hot Pools

Relax and unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools, nestled in the rainforest with rejuvenating hot pools for the whole family.

60 NZD per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 7: Christchurch Farewell

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Enjoy a scenic drive back to Christchurch from Franz Josef Glacier, savoring the last views of the South Island landscapes.

70 NZD for gas, 6 hours

3:00PM

Botanic Gardens Visit

Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city with diverse plant collections and scenic walks.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at Twenty Seven Steps, known for its intimate dining experience and seasonal menu.

80 NZD per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Christchurch

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family-Friendly Biking Adventure in New Zealand's South Island

Day 1: Lake Tekapo Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

Day 2: Lake Tekapo Relaxation

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

Day 3: Queenstown Adventure

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Queenstown Excursion

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Wanaka Wander

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

Day 6: Glacier Discovery

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

Day 7: Christchurch Farewell

9:00AM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About New Zealand South Island

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