Family Friendly Nature Rail/Train Trip in Northern New Zealand

Day 1: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Federal Delicatessen, known for its delicious bagels and coffee.
Located in the heart of Auckland, close to the Britomart Transport Centre.
NZD 15, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Auckland Zoo

Spend the morning exploring Auckland Zoo, home to a wide variety of animal species and interactive exhibits perfect for families.
Located in Western Springs, a short drive from the city centre.
NZD 28 (adult), NZD 15 (child), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar, known for its fresh oysters and relaxed atmosphere.
Located in the Auckland CBD, a perfect spot for a midday break.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Mount Eden

Take a scenic drive to Mount Eden for panoramic views of Auckland city and the surrounding landscape.
Just a short drive from the CBD, follow signs to Mount Eden for easy access.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Viaduct Harbour

End your day with dinner at Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant dining precinct overlooking the marina, offering a variety of restaurants to choose from.
Located in downtown Auckland, with plenty of parking options nearby.
NZD 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Geothermal Wonders in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at third place cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at third place cafe, known for its delicious coffee and breakfast options.
Located in the heart of Rotorua, close to many attractions.
NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, with colourful geothermal pools and unique geothermal features.
Located just outside Rotorua, follow signs to Wai-O-Tapu for easy access.
NZD 32 (adult), NZD 12 (child), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Secret Spot Hot Tubs

Enjoy a relaxing hot tub experience and lunch at Secret Spot Hot Tubs, surrounded by nature and tranquillity.
Located in a secluded area near Rotorua, a perfect retreat after a morning of exploration.
NZD 60, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Embark on an enchanting walk among the towering Redwoods at Redwoods Treewalk, an immersive nature experience suitable for all ages.
Located in the Whakarewarewa Forest, known for its majestic trees and peaceful ambiance.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Indulge in a dinner at Eat Streat, a vibrant dining precinct in the heart of Rotorua with a wide range of culinary options to choose from.
Located in the city centre, easily accessible on foot from many accommodations.
NZD 40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Gardens and Culture in Hamilton

Hamilton, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Punnet Cafe

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Punnet Cafe, known for its fresh and seasonal menu in a charming garden setting.
Located in the outskirts of Hamilton, providing a peaceful start to the day.
NZD 25, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Hamilton Gardens

Explore the diverse themed gardens at Hamilton Gardens, showcasing horticultural beauty and cultural elements from around the world.
Located along the Waikato River, a short drive from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Smith & McKenzie Steak House

Enjoy a hearty steak lunch at Smith & McKenzie Steak House, known for its premium cuts and cosy atmosphere.
Located in central Hamilton, providing a convenient lunch spot after exploring the gardens.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Waikato Museum

Immerse yourself in the art and history of the region at Waikato Museum, with interactive exhibits and diverse collections suitable for all ages.
Located in the heart of Hamilton, near the gardens, offering easy access for visitors.
NZD 12 (adult), Free for children, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Chim-Choo Ree

End your day with a culinary journey at Chim-Choo Ree, a top-rated fusion restaurant in Hamilton offering creative dishes in a stylish setting.
Located in the city centre, reservations recommended for a memorable dining experience.
NZD 50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Coastal Beauty in Tauranga

Tauranga, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Elizabeth Cafe & Larder

Start your day with a flavoursome breakfast at Elizabeth Cafe & Larder, known for its artisanal coffee and delicious baked goods.
Located in the heart of Tauranga, a great spot to fuel up before exploring the coast.
NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Mount Maunganui Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Mount Maunganui Beach, a picturesque spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.
Easily accessible from Tauranga, just a short drive to the beachfront for a day of seaside fun.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Hop House

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Hop House, a seaside eatery offering fresh seafood dishes and craft beers with a view.
Located along the Tauranga waterfront, providing a laid-back dining experience by the sea.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, a lush green paradise with walking trails and stunning natural landscapes to explore.
Follow signs to the forest park from Tauranga, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Harbourside Restaurant

End your day with a fine dining experience at Harbourside Restaurant, known for its superb seafood and waterfront views overlooking Tauranga Harbour.
Located in central Tauranga, make a reservation for a memorable evening by the water.
NZD 70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Delights in Whangarei

Whangarei, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Quay Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Quay Restaurant, offering stunning views of the waterfront to kick off your exploration.
Located in Whangarei CBD, a perfect spot to begin your day of sightseeing.
NZD 18, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Whangarei Falls

Visit the majestic Whangarei Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a morning stroll in nature.
Easily accessible by car from the city centre, follow signs to the falls for a short drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Butterfish

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Butterfish, known for its fresh fish and chips with a view of the marina and harbour.
Located near the Whangarei Town Basin, providing a relaxing lunch setting by the water.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Whangarei Heads

Explore the scenic beauty of Whangarei Heads, with rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and walking tracks offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Drive to the Whangarei Heads area from the city centre, a short journey to beautiful natural landscapes.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Top Sail Restaurant & Bar

End your day with a dinner at Top Sail Restaurant & Bar, a waterfront dining spot offering a blend of international and local cuisine with sunset views over the harbour.
Located near the Whangarei Marina, ideal for a relaxing evening meal by the water.
NZD 45, 2 hours
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