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Family Adventure in New Zealand's South Island

Viewed by 120 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Visit International Antarctic Centre

Start your family adventure by immersing yourself in Antarctic discoveries at the International Antarctic Centre.
It is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre.
NZD 62, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Enjoy a variety of local and international cuisine in this bustling food hall.
A 5-minute walk from the International Antarctic Centre.
NZD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Discover Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll among the beautiful plants, trees and flowers in this tranquil garden.
Located in the city centre, just a short walk from Little High Eatery.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pedro's House of Lamb

Indulge in New Zealand's famous dish, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, at this cosy restaurant.
A 10-minute drive from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Embark on a picturesque drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, enjoying the stunning landscapes along the way.
The journey takes around 3.5 hours by car.
Cost of petrol, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Greedy Cow

Savour delicious burgers and milkshakes with a view of the stunning Lake Tekapo.
Located in the town centre, near the lakefront.
NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Lake Tekapo

Take a walk around the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.
The church and lake are within walking distance from the town centre.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kohan Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful Japanese meal with a view of the lake at this cosy restaurant.
Located in the town centre, perfect for a relaxing evening.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 3: Adventures in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Scenic Drive to Queenstown

Embark on a beautiful drive from Lake Tekapo to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown.
The journey takes around 3.5 hours by car.
Cost of petrol, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Treat yourself to the legendary Fergburger, a must-eat in Queenstown, known for its delicious and hearty burgers.
Located in the town centre, be prepared for queues as it's popular.
NZD 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skyline Queenstown Gondola

Take the gondola up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding Remarkables mountain range.
Accessible from the town centre, with entrance at the Skyline building.
NZD 44, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at this rustic Italian restaurant, known for its delicious pasta and friendly atmosphere.
Located in the town centre, perfect for an evening meal.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 4: Exploring Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound (4 hours) or join a tour for convenience.
NZD 80 (cruise only), 5 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at The Chasm Walk

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of Fiordland National Park after a short walk to The Chasm waterfall.
The Chasm Walk is a short drive from Milford Sound.
NZD 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Explore the magical underground world of glowworms in the Te Anau Caves, a unique experience for the whole family.
Drive to Te Anau (2 hours) for the tour.
NZD 75, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Ranch Bar & Grill

Enjoy a hearty meal at this family-friendly restaurant in Te Anau, serving up delicious Kiwi cuisine.
Located in the town centre of Te Anau.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Fiordland National Park

Day 5: Wanaka Adventures

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Embark on a scenic drive from Te Anau to Wanaka, passing through beautiful landscapes and charming towns.
The journey takes around 2.5 hours by car.
Cost of petrol, 3 hours

12:00PM

Puzzling World

Spend the afternoon exploring the quirky illusions and puzzles at Puzzling World, fun for all ages.
Located just outside Wanaka town centre.
NZD 20, 3 hours

4:00PM

Relax by Lake Wanaka

Stroll along the shores of Lake Wanaka, relax on the beach, or try your hand at some water sports.
Accessible from Wanaka town centre.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kika Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal at this stylish restaurant in Wanaka, known for its fresh and flavoursome dishes.
Located in the town centre, a great way to end the day.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 6: Exploring Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Hike to Franz Josef Glacier

Embark on an unforgettable guided hike to explore the majestic Franz Josef Glacier, an adventure for the whole family.
Join a guided tour from the glacier town centre.
NZD 120, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing Bar & Restaurant

Recharge with a delicious meal at this welcoming restaurant in Franz Josef, offering a range of Kiwi dishes.
Located in the glacier town centre, perfect after the hike.
NZD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools, a rejuvenating experience for the whole family amidst the rainforest setting.
Located in Franz Josef town, a perfect way to relax after the hike.
NZD 60, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at King Tiger East Asian Restaurant

Enjoy a fusion of Asian cuisines at this vibrant and popular restaurant in Franz Josef.
Located in the town centre, offering a diverse menu.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 7: Coastal Drive to Punakaiki

Punakaiki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Punakaiki

Embark on a scenic coastal drive from Franz Josef to Punakaiki, offering stunning views of the rugged West Coast.
The journey takes around 3 hours by car.
Cost of petrol, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pancake Rocks Cafe

Enjoy a meal with a view at The Pancake Rocks Cafe, overlooking the unique limestone formations of Punakaiki.
Located near the Pancake Rocks, perfect for a midday stop.
NZD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Marvel at the intriguing geological formations and the powerful blowholes that attract visitors from around the world.
A short walk from the cafe, follow the signposted tracks.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Punakaiki Tavern

Savour a hearty pub meal at Punakaiki Tavern, a casual spot for some local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
Located in the small town of Punakaiki, a great way to end the day.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Punakaiki
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