How many days do you need in new zealand?

This itinerary covers 7 days in new zealand, 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?

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

Ultimate New Zealand Rail Adventure

Day 1: City Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Grab Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty New York-style brunch at this popular eatery in the heart of Auckland.

NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's art and culture at this iconic gallery, home to an impressive collection of both traditional and contemporary artworks.

NZD 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Savor fresh seafood and organic dishes at this trendy spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious cuisine.

NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Devonport

Take a ferry to the charming seaside village of Devonport, known for its historic architecture, art galleries, and stunning views of Auckland skyline.

NZD 12 (round trip ferry ticket), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Enjoy a waterfront dining experience at Soul, offering a fusion of New Zealand flavors with a contemporary twist.

NZD 50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Scenic Train Journey

Auckland to Wellington

7:00AM

Board Northern Explorer train

Embark on a breathtaking rail adventure through New Zealand's North Island, passing through rugged landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque countryside.

NZD 150 (approx.), 12 hours

7:00PM

Dinner on board

Experience dining on the train while enjoying the mesmerizing views outside your window.

Included in ticket price, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Auckland to Wellington

Day 3: Cultural Capital Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Louis Sergeant Sweet Couture

Indulge in exquisite pastries and French-inspired breakfast delights at this charming patisserie café.

NZD 25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Te Papa Museum Visit

Discover New Zealand's rich history and Maori culture at Te Papa, the national museum renowned for its interactive exhibits and engaging displays.

Free entry (some exhibitions may have admission fees), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Logan Brown

Treat yourself to a gourmet dining experience at Logan Brown, a prestigious restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance.

NZD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Weta Workshop

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of movie magic with a guided tour of Weta Workshop, famous for its visual effects work on blockbuster films.

NZD 28, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Enjoy a seafood feast at Ortega, a popular eatery known for its fresh catch of the day and relaxed coastal vibe.

NZD 40, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 4: Southern Adventure

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Start your day with a unique dining experience at C1 Espresso, a quirky café famous for its pneumatic food delivery system and inventive menu.

NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through lush greenery and colorful blooms at one of the world's finest gardens, located in the heart of Christchurch.

Free entry, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Riverside Market

Delight your taste buds with an array of local specialties and international flavors at Riverside Market, a vibrant hub of food and culture.

NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Canterbury Museum

Immerse yourself in Canterbury's natural and human heritage through fascinating exhibits and interactive displays at this renowned museum.

NZD 15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Indulge in a culinary journey at Twenty Seven Steps, a cozy restaurant serving modern European cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients.

NZD 50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 5: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Start your day with delicious brunch and artisan coffee at Vudu Café, a popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable dishes.

NZD 25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Thrilling Shotover Jet Ride

Experience adrenaline-pumping adventure with a high-speed jet boat ride through the spectacular canyons of Shotover River.

NZD 150, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Grab a legendary Fergburger, a mouthwatering gourmet burger loved by locals and tourists alike, at this must-visit Queenstown eatery.

NZD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely walk through picturesque gardens with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

Free entry, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rata

Savor contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients at Rata, owned by renowned chef Josh Emett.

NZD 60, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 6: Historic Discovery

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vogel Street Kitchen

Start your day with a farm-to-table breakfast at Vogel Street Kitchen, known for its delicious locally sourced dishes and welcoming ambiance.

NZD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Discover Otago Peninsula

Explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Otago Peninsula, home to royal albatross, fur seals, and penguins in their natural habitat.

NZD 50 (for guided tour), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Etrusco

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Etrusco, a cozy restaurant serving traditional dishes made with fresh local ingredients.

NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Toitū Otago Settlers Museum

Step back in time and discover the stories of Dunedin's early settlers at Toitū, a fascinating museum showcasing the city's history and heritage.

NZD 15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plato

Relish Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with local flavors at Plato, a stylish restaurant offering a modern dining experience in Dunedin.

NZD 45, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 7: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Ozone Coffee Roasters

Kickstart your day with specialty coffee and delicious breakfast options at Ozone, a popular coffee roastery and café in Auckland.

NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike to the top of Mount Eden

Enjoy panoramic views of Auckland from the summit of Mount Eden, an iconic volcanic cone offering a stunning vantage point of the city.

Free entry, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Sugar Club

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at The Sugar Club, situated high above Auckland with breathtaking views and exquisite culinary creations.

NZD 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island and spend the afternoon exploring vineyards, beaches, and art galleries in this picturesque island paradise.

NZD 40 (round trip ferry ticket), 4 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Grove

Conclude your New Zealand adventure with a fine dining experience at The Grove, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant setting.

NZD 80, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Auckland

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate New Zealand Rail Adventure

Day 1: City Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Scenic Train Journey

7:00AM

7:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Capital Exploration

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Southern Adventure

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Queenstown Adventure

9:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Historic Discovery

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Return to Auckland

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

More About new zealand

Plan Your new zealand Trip