How many days do you need in Christchurch?

This itinerary covers 6 days in Christchurch, 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 Christchurch?

Plan your perfect 6 days trip to Christchurch. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Adventure Road Trip from Christchurch

Day 1: Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Start your day with a unique breakfast at C1 Espresso where your food is delivered through pneumatic tubes.

$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Botanic Gardens & Canterbury Museum

Take a stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Canterbury Museum.

$0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Little Pom's

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Little Pom's, known for its fresh and flavoursome Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

International Antarctic Centre

Experience the wonders of Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre, where you can ride on a Hagglund vehicle and meet real-life little blue penguins.

$60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

End your day with a delightful dinner at Fiddlesticks, offering a modern New Zealand dining experience.

$30, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Store

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at The Store while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Tekapo.

$20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd

Visit the stunning Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd for picturesque photo opportunities.

$0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rakinui Restaurant

Enjoy a scenic lunch at Rakinui Restaurant with views of the lake and mountains.

$25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stargazing at Tekapo Springs

Experience the magic of stargazing at Tekapo Springs, a perfect activity for both kids and adults.

$50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Greedy Cow

Enjoy a hearty dinner at The Greedy Cow, known for their delicious burgers and cozy ambiance.

$35, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 3: A Day in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder, offering a range of options to suit everyone.

$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Skyline Queenstown

Take the Skyline Gondola up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and enjoy thrilling activities like luge rides and stargazing at night.

$80, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in the legendary Fergburger for lunch, a must-try when in Queenstown.

$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

$50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rata

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Rata, showcasing the best of New Zealand's local produce.

$40, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 4: Exploring Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Full of Beans

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Full of Beans, known for their delicious coffee and pastries.

$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Franz Josef Glacier Guided Tour

Embark on a guided tour to explore the stunning Franz Josef Glacier, where you can hike and marvel at the icy landscapes.

$100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at The Landing Bar & Restaurant, offering delicious food with views of the glacier.

$30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hot Pools at Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind and relax at the Glacier Hot Pools, a perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of adventure.

$40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Alice May

Enjoy a casual dinner at Alice May, a popular spot known for its fresh and tasty dishes.

$25, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 5: Discovering Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery, known for their locally sourced ingredients.

$20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Abel Tasman National Park

Spend the day exploring the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, with options for hiking, kayaking, and beach relaxation.

$20 (park entry fee), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Boat Shed Café

Enjoy a waterfront lunch at Boat Shed Café, offering fresh seafood and stunning views of the harbour.

$30, 1 hour

4:00PM

World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, showcasing innovative designs and vintage cars.

$25, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's Restaurant

End your day with a gourmet dinner at Hopgood's Restaurant, offering a seasonal menu highlighting local produce.

$50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 6: Coastal Excursion in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Store

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Store before heading out for a day of coastal adventures in Kaikoura.

$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the thrill of a whale-watching tour in Kaikoura, where you might spot sperm whales, dolphins, and seals.

$150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Relax and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at The Pier Hotel, overlooking the ocean.

$35, 1 hour

3:00PM

Seal Colony Visit

Visit the nearby seal colony to observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

$0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Green Dolphin

End your day with a delightful dinner at The Green Dolphin, known for their fresh seafood dishes.

$40, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Adventure Road Trip from Christchurch

Day 1: Exploring Christchurch

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Lake Tekapo

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: A Day in Queenstown

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Exploring Franz Josef Glacier

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Discovering Nelson

8:00AM

10:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Coastal Excursion in Kaikoura

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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