Ultimate Queenstown Adventure Road Trip & Relaxation Itinerary

Day Day 1: Adventure Beginnings

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Start your day with a thrilling gondola ride offering stunning panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
The Skyline Gondola is located at Brecon Street. It's a short drive or walk from the city center.
NZD 44, 2 hours

12:00PM

Fergburger

Enjoy a famous Fergburger for lunch, known for its delicious gourmet burgers and vibrant atmosphere.
Fergburger is located in Shotover Street, a popular area in Queenstown.
NZD 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River, an iconic Queenstown adventure.
The Shotover Jet Boats depart from the Shotover River base. Transportation will be provided by the tour company.
NZD 149, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Public Kitchen

End the day with a delicious dinner at Public Kitchen, known for its flavorful dishes and cozy ambiance.
Public Kitchen is located in the heart of Queenstown, perfect for a relaxing evening meal.
NZD 40, 2 hours
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Day Day 2: Nature & Tranquility

Te Anau, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Embark on a scenic drive to the tranquil town of Te Anau, known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Cost of gas, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lake Te Anau

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the serene Lake Te Anau, surrounded by majestic mountains and pure natural beauty.
Lake Te Anau is easily accessible from the town center, offering walking trails and picnic spots.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore the magical glowworm caves on a guided tour, marveling at the shimmering glowworms in the underground darkness.
The Te Anau Glowworm Caves tours depart from Te Anau town center. Advance booking is recommended.
NZD 75, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Redcliff Cafe, known for its fresh seafood and cozy ambiance overlooking Lake Te Anau.
Redcliff Cafe is situated in a scenic location, offering a perfect ending to a day of tranquility.
NZD 35, 2 hours
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Day Day 3: Magical Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

8:00AM

Scenic Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on an early morning scenic drive to Milford Sound, one of the most breathtaking fiords in New Zealand.
The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound takes approximately 2 hours through stunning landscapes.
Cost of gas, 2 hours

11:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a magical cruise through Milford Sound, marveling at towering waterfalls, lush forests, and wildlife.
Cruise departures are from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal. Book in advance to secure your spot.
NZD 80, 2 hours

2:00PM

Nature Walks

Explore the surrounding trails and viewpoints of Milford Sound, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of Fiordland National Park.
Various walking trails start from the Milford Sound area, providing opportunities for short walks with stunning views.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pio Pio Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Pio Pio Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and New Zealand cuisine.
Pio Pio Restaurant offers a cozy dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
NZD 45, 2 hours
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Day Day 4: Wonders of Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Embark on a scenic drive from Te Anau to the picturesque town of Wanaka, known for its stunning lake and mountain views.
The drive from Milford Sound to Wanaka takes approximately 3 hours, offering scenic stops along the way.
Cost of gas, 3 hours

12:00PM

Puzzling World

Visit Puzzling World, a unique attraction featuring optical illusions, puzzles, and a challenging maze for a fun-filled experience.
Puzzling World is located near Lake Wanaka and offers interactive exhibits for all ages.
NZD 20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lake Wanaka

Relax by the tranquil shores of Lake Wanaka, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
Lake Wanaka is a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or water activities.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kika Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Kika Restaurant, known for its modern European cuisine and elegant dining atmosphere.
Kika Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience in the heart of Wanaka.
NZD 50, 2 hours
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Day Day 5: Glacier Exploration

Fox Glacier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Fox Glacier

Embark on a picturesque drive from Wanaka to Fox Glacier, a stunning glacier located on the West Coast of the South Island.
The drive from Wanaka to Fox Glacier takes approximately 3.5 hours through scenic mountain roads.
Cost of gas, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Fox Glacier Helicopter Tour

Experience a thrilling helicopter tour over the majestic Fox Glacier, offering aerial views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
Helicopter tours depart from Fox Glacier township. Make sure to book in advance.
NZD 250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Glacier Hiking

Embark on a guided glacier hike to explore the ice caves, crevasses, and pristine beauty of Fox Glacier up close.
Guided glacier hikes depart from the Fox Glacier township and provide necessary equipment for a safe adventure.
NZD 150, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Last Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty dinner at The Last Kitchen, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty comfort food.
The Last Kitchen offers a warm and welcoming dining experience in Fox Glacier.
NZD 40, 2 hours
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Day Day 6: Glacier Paradise

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Embark on a scenic drive from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier, another stunning glacier renowned for its beauty and accessibility.
The drive from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier takes approximately 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Cost of gas, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike

Embark on a helicopter tour and guided hike on Franz Josef Glacier, experiencing the thrill of walking on ancient ice formations.
Helihike tours depart from the Franz Josef township. Advance bookings are strongly recommended.
NZD 450, 3 hours

1:00PM

Hot Pools Relaxation

Unwind and rejuvenate at the Glacier Hot Pools, a series of natural geothermal pools nestled in the lush rainforest.
The Glacier Hot Pools are located in Franz Josef village, offering a perfect retreat after glacier adventures.
NZD 25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at SnakeBite Brewery

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at SnakeBite Brewery, known for its craft beers, gourmet pizzas, and laid-back atmosphere.
SnakeBite Brewery offers a casual dining experience with a focus on local flavors and brews.
NZD 35, 2 hours
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Day Day 7: Coastal Serenity

Hokitika, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Embark on a scenic drive from Franz Josef Glacier to Hokitika, a charming coastal town known for its jade and craft galleries.
The drive from Franz Josef Glacier to Hokitika takes approximately 1.5 hours along the stunning West Coast Highway.
Cost of gas, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hokitika Gorge

Visit Hokitika Gorge and marvel at the vibrant turquoise waters flowing through the gorge, surrounded by lush native bush.
Hokitika Gorge is a short drive from the town center, with a walking track leading to stunning viewpoints.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Jade Factory & Gallery

Explore the local jade industry at a Jade Factory & Gallery, showcasing intricate jade carvings and jewelry.
The Jade Factory & Gallery in Hokitika offers insights into the craftsmanship of jade artistry.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Point Restaurant

Relish a delicious dinner at Sunset Point Restaurant, overlooking the Tasman Sea and enjoying fresh seafood cuisine.
Sunset Point Restaurant offers a stunning backdrop for a relaxing evening meal in Hokitika.
NZD 50, 2 hours
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