How many days do you need in New Zealand?

This itinerary covers 14 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 14 days trip to New Zealand. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate 14-Day New Zealand Road Trip Adventure

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Start your trip with breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland from the iconic Sky Tower.

NZD 32, 2 hours

11:00AM

Auckland Art Gallery

Immerse yourself in local art and culture at the largest art institution in New Zealand.

NZD 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Savor classic New York-style deli sandwiches for lunch at this popular eatery.

NZD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Waiheke Island Day Trip

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island and enjoy its wineries and scenic beaches.

NZD 42, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Enjoy dinner with a view of Auckland's skyline at this chic restaurant.

NZD 80, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Discover Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Hit the road early for a scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders.

COSTFree, 3 hours

11:30AM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Explore geothermal activity, including geysers, mud pools, and the Māori cultural experience.

NZD 55, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Indulge in delicious local dishes at one of the many eateries in this vibrant lakeside street.

NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Experience an elevated walkway among towering Redwoods in the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest.

NZD 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Rotorua Night Market

Sample food from diverse food stalls at the Rotorua Night Market, only available on Thursdays.

NZD 15, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Enjoy a scenic drive to Taupo, famed for its beautiful lake and adventure sports.

COSTFree, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Huka Falls

Marvel at the stunning power of water at Huka Falls, a breathtaking must-see.

COSTFree, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lunch at The Vine Eatery

Enjoy delicious cuisine inspired by local produce at The Vine Eatery overlooking the lake.

NZD 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lake Taupo Boat Cruise

Relax and take a boat cruise on the stunning Lake Taupo, viewing the Maori rock carvings.

NZD 80, 2 hours

4:00PM

Taupo Hot Springs

Unwind in soothing thermal springs, the perfect end to your adventure-filled day.

NZD 45, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Taupo Tandem Skydiving

If you are daring, grab dinner and try tandem skydiving with stunning views!

NZD 260, 3 hours

Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Cultural Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Head towards the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington, known for its vibrant arts scene.

COSTFree, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Old Bank

Savor a delectable lunch at this trendy waterfront location with a great atmosphere.

NZD 35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Te Papa Museum

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's rich history at the Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum.

NZD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Cable Car to Kelburn Lookout

Enjoy a ride on Wellington's iconic cable car for stunning views of the city.

NZD 5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Experience fine dining in a beautifully restored Edwardian bank building with fabulous local cuisine.

NZD 120, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Scenic Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Picton

Set off for Picton, the gateway to Marlborough Sounds, known for its stunning landscapes.

COSTFree, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Marlborough Sounds Cruise

Take a cruise through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds, spotting wildlife and enjoying views.

NZD 85, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Chart Room

Enjoy a fresh seafood meal at this popular harborside restaurant.

NZD 40, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Explore New Zealand's maritime history at this unique museum focused on the iconic ship Edwin Fox.

NZD 15, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Café

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with delicious local flavors in a cozy ambiance.

NZD 28, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Picton

Day 6: Breathtaking Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Enjoy a leisurely drive from Picton to Nelson, known for its sunny climate and art scene.

COSTFree, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Start your adventure with a visit to North Island's beautiful national park, known for its beaches.

NZD 10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed Café

Indulge in a lakeside lunch at this cozy café with incredible views.

NZD 35, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Nelson Market

Wander through local artisan stalls and sample fresh produce at this vibrant market.

NZD 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's

Experience fine dining with a focus on fresh local seafood and seasonal ingredients.

NZD 75, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 7: Adventuring Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Start your day with an invigorating kayaking experience in the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

NZD 80, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Coastal Track

Hike along the coastline taking in stunning views and experiencing breathtaking flora and fauna.

COSTFree, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Awaroa Lodge

Recharge with a delicious lunch at this picturesque lodge nestled within the park.

NZD 40, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return Hike

Make your way back, enjoying a different perspective of the beautiful scenery.

COSTFree, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

A must-try for its famous burgers in a casual outdoor setting just outside of the park.

NZD 25, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 8: Majestic Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Depart early for Franz Josef Glacier, an adventure destination that draws travelers from around the globe.

COSTFree, 4.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Full Of Beans

Refuel your energy with a hearty meal in this cozy café filled with charm.

NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take a guided tour on the beautiful glacier, learning about its unique ecosystem and history.

NZD 150, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Dine with a view of the surrounding mountains in this trendy restaurant with local flavors.

NZD 35, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 9: Excitement in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Travel towards Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, renowned for its adrenaline-pumping activities.

COSTFree, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Savor the legendary burgers at Fergburger, a must-visit eatery for food lovers.

NZD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Skydiving Adventure

Experience an exhilarating skydive over the breathtaking landscapes of Queenstown.

NZD 300, 3 hours

5:30PM

Gondola Ride at Skyline

Ascend to Bob's Peak for unparalleled views of Queenstown and surrounding mountains.

NZD 44, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rātā

Indulge in contemporary New Zealand cuisine crafted with seasonal local ingredients.

NZD 85, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 10: Milford Sound Magic

Milford Sound, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set off early for Milford Sound—considered one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.

COSTFree, 2 hours

10:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the fjord, admiring towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

NZD 90, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Relish a packed lunch or refreshments while soaking in the beautiful views.

COSTFree, 2 hours

3:00PM

Return to Queenstown

Head back to Queenstown and enjoy the scenic drive back along the fjords.

COSTFree, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Dine at this hidden gem serving delicious modern New Zealand cuisine in an intimate setting.

NZD 100, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 11: Historical Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Dunedin

Embark on a drive to Dunedin, known for its historic architecture and vibrant student life.

COSTFree, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Otago Museum

Explore the Otago Museum and discover captivating exhibits on natural history and culture.

NZD 0, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Etrusco

Relish traditional Italian dishes in a charming ambiance at this beloved eatery.

NZD 40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Dunedin Railway Station

Visit one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand, known for its beautiful architecture.

COSTFree, 30 mins

4:00PM

Larnach Castle

Tour New Zealand's only castle, exploring its gardens and stunning views over the Otago Peninsula.

NZD 40, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Plato

Dine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and local flavors in this elegant bistro.

NZD 75, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 12: Charming Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Venture to Christchurch, known as the Garden City, with its stunning parks and gardens.

COSTFree, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Black Betty

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring fresh, local fare in a trendy environment.

NZD 35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through beautiful gardens, showcasing stunning flowers and trees in a serene setting.

COSTFree, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Quake City Exhibition

Learn about the earthquake history and resilience of Christchurch through interactive exhibits.

NZD 25, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fifteen

Dine at this top-notch restaurant featuring dishes made with the freshest local produce.

NZD 90, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 13: Wildlife in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel to Kaikoura, famous for its marine wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

COSTFree, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching tour to witness magnificent marine giants.

NZD 150, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy seafood with stunning views over the ocean in a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

NZD 45, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Hike along the coastal tracks with breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged coastline.

COSTFree, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Green Dolphin

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh local seafood and other delicacies in a cozy setting.

NZD 40, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 14: Farewell Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive back to Auckland

Travel back to Auckland for the final leg of your journey, reflecting on the adventures had.

COSTFree, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Tom Tom Bar & Eatery

Savor a relaxed lunch at this stylish bar with delightful options including local favorites.

NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Auckland Domain

Explore the expansive Auckland Domain, New Zealand's oldest park, filled with lush greenery.

COSTFree, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return Rental Car

Return your rental car at Auckland Airport before check-in for your departure.

COSTFree, 2 hours

8:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you incredible memories and experiences.

COSTFree, N/A

Find Hotels in Auckland

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 14-Day New Zealand Road Trip Adventure

Day 1: Explore Auckland

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Discover Rotorua

8:00AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Adventure in Taupo

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Cultural Wellington

8:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Scenic Picton

8:00AM

11:30AM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Breathtaking Nelson

8:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Adventuring Abel Tasman

8:00AM

11:30AM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 8: Majestic Franz Josef

8:00AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:30PM

Day 9: Excitement in Queenstown

8:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 10: Milford Sound Magic

8:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 11: Historical Dunedin

8:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 12: Charming Christchurch

8:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 13: Wildlife in Kaikoura

8:00AM

11:00AM

2:30PM

4:00PM