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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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