Ultimate 7-Day New Zealand Rail Adventure

Day 1: City Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Visit Auckland Museum

Start your trip with a visit to Auckland Museum to learn about Maori culture and New Zealand's history.
Take the Hop-On Hop-Off bus to the museum.
$25, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Viaduct Harbour

Enjoy a seafood lunch with a stunning view of the harbor at one of the many restaurants in Viaduct Harbour.
Walk from the museum to Viaduct Harbour.
$30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Auckland Art Gallery

Spend the afternoon exploring modern and traditional art at Auckland Art Gallery.
Take a short walk from Viaduct Harbour to the gallery.
$15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sky Tower

Indulge in a fine dining experience at the revolving restaurant in Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city at night.
Take a taxi or public transport to the Sky Tower.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Train Journey

Auckland to Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Board Northern Explorer Train

Embark on a picturesque train journey from Auckland to Wellington, passing through stunning landscapes and rural towns.
Head to Auckland Railway Station to board the Northern Explorer Train.
$100, 12 hours

8:00PM

Arrive in Wellington

Check into your hotel in Wellington and have a relaxing evening exploring the vibrant capital city.
Take a taxi to your accommodation.
$150, Rest of the day
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Day 3: Cultural Capital

Wellington, New Zealand

9:00AM

Te Papa Museum

Start your day with a visit to Te Papa Museum to delve into New Zealand's art, history, and natural environment.
Take a short walk to Te Papa Museum.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Explore the eclectic Cuba Street for a variety of dining options ranging from cafes to exotic cuisine.
Walk to Cuba Street from the museum.
$20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Weta Workshop Tour

Discover the magic of movie-making with a behind-the-scenes tour at Weta Workshop, known for its work on The Lord of the Rings.
Take a taxi or public transport to Weta Workshop.
$50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mt. Victoria

Enjoy a delicious meal with a view at one of the eateries near Mt. Victoria Lookout.
Take a taxi or hike up to Mt. Victoria Lookout.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 4: Garden City Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Spend the morning strolling through the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to a diverse range of plant species.
Take a short walk to the gardens from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Riverside Market

Relish in a gourmet food experience at the Riverside Market with a mix of local and international cuisine.
Walk to Riverside Market in the city center.
$25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Tram Tour of Christchurch

Hop on a historic tram for a guided tour around Christchurch, exploring its heritage and landmarks.
Board the tram at Cathedral Junction.
$20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at New Regent Street

Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the charming restaurants along the colorful New Regent Street.
Stroll to New Regent Street from the tram stop.
$35, 2 hours
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Day 5: Adventure Capital

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Start your day with a scenic gondola ride to Bob's Peak for breathtaking views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Take a short walk to the Skyline Queenstown Gondola Station.
$40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Satisfy your hunger with the iconic Fergburger, known for its delicious gourmet burgers.
Walk to Fergburger on Shotover Street.
$20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Jet Boat Ride on Shotover River

Feel the adrenaline rush with a thrilling jet boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Shotover River.
Head to Shotover Jet Boat Tours in the town center.
$100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pier 19

Relax by the waterfront and enjoy a seafood dinner at Pier 19 with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.
Walk along the lakefront to Pier 19.
$45, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Charm

Dunedin, New Zealand

9:00AM

Larnach Castle Tour

Explore the only castle in New Zealand, Larnach Castle, known for its beautiful gardens and fascinating history.
Drive or take a shuttle to Larnach Castle.
$30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Octagon

Dine at one of the cozy cafes in The Octagon, the central plaza of Dunedin surrounded by historic buildings.
Walk to The Octagon from Larnach Castle.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Embark on a wildlife tour on the Otago Peninsula to see seals, penguins, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Join a guided tour departing from Dunedin city.
$60, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Vogel Street Kitchen

Experience a blend of contemporary and traditional cuisine at Vogel Street Kitchen for dinner.
Walk to Vogel Street Kitchen in the Warehouse Precinct.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 7: Coastal Escape

Nelson, New Zealand

9:00AM

Abel Tasman National Park

Spend the day exploring the golden beaches and crystal-clear waters of Abel Tasman National Park with kayaking or hiking.
Drive or take a shuttle to the national park entrance.
$50, Full day

6:00PM

Dinner at The Boat House

Enjoy fresh seafood at The Boat House, a waterfront restaurant offering sunset views over Nelson Harbour.
Drive or walk to The Boat House at Wakefield Quay.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Departure

Catch your flight or train back to Auckland, reflecting on the amazing experiences and memories from your New Zealand adventure.
Drive to Nelson Airport for your return journey.
$200, Rest of the day
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