7-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary from Christchurch

Day 1: Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Start at Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the stunning Botanic Gardens, perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
The gardens are located in the city centre and easily accessible by car or public transport.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Head to Little High Eatery for a variety of delicious food options in a casual dining setting.
Located in the city centre, a short drive from the Botanic Gardens.
GBP 15 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Canterbury Museum

Visit the Canterbury Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region through interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
Located near the Botanic Gardens, easily walkable from the eatery.
GBP 10 per adult, children free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Twenty Seven Steps, offering a blend of contemporary and traditional cuisine.
In the city centre, a short distance from the museum.
GBP 30 per person, 2 hours
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Day 2: Lake Tekapo Day Trip

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Embark on a scenic road trip to Lake Tekapo, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings.
Take State Highway 8 for approximately 3 hours from Christchurch to reach Lake Tekapo.
Fuel costs, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mackenzie's Cafe Bar & Grill

Enjoy a meal at Mackenzie's with a view of Lake Tekapo, offering a selection of dishes to satisfy everyone's palate.
Located near the lakefront, providing beautiful views while dining.
GBP 20 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tekapo Springs

Spend the afternoon at Tekapo Springs, where the family can relax in hot pools, enjoy waterslides, and even stargaze in the evening.
A short drive from the cafe, providing a range of activities for all ages.
GBP 25 per adult, children discounts available, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch, reminiscing on the beautiful day spent at Lake Tekapo.
Take the same route back on State Highway 8, enjoying the scenic drive once more.
Fuel costs, 3 hours
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Day 3: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Travel to Queenstown

Embark on a road trip to the adventure capital of Queenstown, known for its adrenaline-pumping activities and stunning landscapes.
Take State Highway 6 from Christchurch to Queenstown, approximately a 6-hour drive.
Fuel costs, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Grab a famous Fergburger for lunch, known for its mouth-watering burgers that will satisfy every family member.
Located in the heart of Queenstown, easy to find upon arrival in the town.
GBP 10 per burger, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skyline Queenstown

Take a gondola ride up to Skyline Queenstown for panoramic views and enjoy thrilling luge rides for both kids and adults.
Accessible from the town centre, a must-visit for amazing views and family-friendly activities.
GBP 30 per adult, children discounts available, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gantleys Restaurant

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience at Gantleys Restaurant, known for its high-quality cuisine in a charming setting.
A short drive from Skyline, offering a serene atmosphere for a relaxing meal.
GBP 40 per person, 2 hours
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Day 4: Dunedin Cultural Exploration

Dunedin, New Zealand

9:00AM

Arrive in Dunedin

Drive to Dunedin, a city rich in Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture, offering a mix of cultural experiences for the family.
Take State Highway 1 from Queenstown to Dunedin, approximately a 4-hour drive.
Fuel costs, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Vault 21

Head to Vault 21 for a modern dining experience in a historic building, featuring a range of dishes to suit all tastes.
Located in Dunedin's city centre, providing easy access after the drive.
GBP 20 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Discover Otago Museum

Explore the Otago Museum, offering interactive exhibits on nature, culture, and science, ensuring an engaging experience for the whole family.
A short walk from Vault 21, providing educational entertainment for all ages.
GBP 15 per adult, children free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Etrusco at the Savoy

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Etrusco, known for its delicious pasta dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
Located in Dunedin's city centre, offering a taste of Italy after a day of exploration.
GBP 25 per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Marine Adventure in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

9:00AM

Travel to Kaikoura

Embark on a drive to Kaikoura, known for its marine wildlife encounters and stunning coastal views, offering a unique experience for the family.
Take State Highway 1 from Dunedin to Kaikoura, approximately a 5-hour drive.
Fuel costs, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Craypot

Enjoy a seafood lunch at The Craypot, overlooking the ocean and serving fresh dishes highlighting the local produce.
Located near the beachfront, providing a scenic backdrop for a delicious meal.
GBP 25 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Whale Watch Kaikoura

Embark on a whale watching tour to witness magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat, a thrilling experience for all.
Book a tour with Whale Watch Kaikoura, located conveniently in town for easy access.
GBP 80 per adult, children discounts available, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Whaler

Dine at The Whaler for a cosy and relaxed dinner featuring a range of dishes including fresh seafood, catering to all tastes.
Situated in Kaikoura town, offering a casual dining atmosphere to end the day.
GBP 30 per person, 2 hours
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Day 6: Relaxation in Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Hanmer Springs

Set off on a scenic drive to Hanmer Springs, a town known for its natural hot pools and serene surroundings, perfect for a day of relaxation.
Take State Highway 1 from Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs, approximately a 2-hour drive.
Fuel costs, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Powerhouse Cafe & Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Powerhouse offering a range of options from gourmet burgers to healthier dishes, catering to all tastes.
Centrally located in town, providing a convenient dining spot after soaking in the hot pools.
GBP 15 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Spend the afternoon at the Thermal Pools & Spa, where the whole family can relax in various pools and enjoy spa treatments.
Located in the town centre, offering a variety of pools and services for a rejuvenating experience.
GBP 20 per adult, children discounts available, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Isobel's Restaurant & Bar

Dine at Isobel's for a hearty meal, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes in a cosy setting.
Located near the Thermal Pools & Spa, providing a convenient dining option to end the day.
GBP 25 per person, 2 hours
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Day 7: Scenic Akaroa Village

Akaroa, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Akaroa

Embark on a picturesque drive to Akaroa, a charming French-inspired village by the sea, perfect for a day of exploration.
Take State Highway 75 from Hanmer Springs to Akaroa, approximately a 3-hour drive.
Fuel costs, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Little Bistro

Enjoy a delightful lunch at The Little Bistro, known for its French-inspired cuisine and welcoming ambience.
Located in the heart of Akaroa, offering a taste of France in a quaint setting.
GBP 20 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise

Embark on a harbour cruise to spot dolphins, penguins, and other marine life in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories for the family.
Book a cruise with Akaroa Harbour Cruises, departing from the main wharf for a wildlife encounter.
GBP 50 per adult, children discounts available, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar

Savour a seafood dinner at Bully Hayes, offering a range of fresh catch options in a laid-back waterfront setting.
Situated along the waterfront, providing scenic views while dining on delicious seafood.
GBP 30 per person, 2 hours
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