14-Day Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in North Island, New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your trip with a hearty breakfast of NYC-style bagels and lox at Federal Delicatessen.
Meet locals and get a feel for the vibe of the city before starting your sightseeing.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and harbor from the iconic Sky Tower.
A 15-minute walk from Federal Delicatessen.
NZD32, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Parnell 178

Delight in seasonal dishes at this charming restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from Sky Tower.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Auckland Domain and Auckland War Memorial Museum

Stroll the lush grounds of Auckland Domain and delve into New Zealand's history at the museum.
A 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
NZD18, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Experience refined dining with fresh local ingredients and great wines.
A quick trip back through Auckland.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure Activities

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Best Ugly Bagels

Savor a delicious bagel with variety toppings at this popular local spot.
Conveniently located downtown.
NZD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Experience the beauty of marine life on a half-day cruise in the Hauraki Gulf.
Check-in at the downtown marina.
NZD120, 4 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Mission Bay

Unwind at this beautiful beach, taking a walk along the promenade or swimming.
A 15-minute drive from the marina.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tom Tom Bar & Eatery

Relish a laid-back dining experience with a grill menu and creative cocktails.
Located conveniently near Mission Bay.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Rotorua

Drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture.
A 3-hour drive; head southeast via State Highway 1 and State Highway 5.
NZD50, 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at The Fat Dog

Take a break with a hearty breakfast at this cozy local haunt.
5-minute drive upon arrival in Rotorua.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore geysers, hot mud pools, and Maori cultural performances at this thermal park.
A 10-minute drive from The Fat Dog.
NZD70, 3 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Indulge in therapeutic hot mineral pools at this renowned spa.
10-minute drive from Te Puia.
NZD55, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy dinner with a focus on seasonal NZ ingredients in the heart of Rotorua.
A 5-minute drive from the spa.
NZD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature & Adventure

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zippy Central

Start your day with amazing coffee and delicious breakfast options in a local setting.
Located within Rotorua's downtown area.
NZD22, 1 hour

9:30AM

Redwoods Treewalk

Experience a suspended walkway through the majestic Redwoods forest.
10-minute drive from Zippy Central.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Ranch Bar & Grill

Taste delicious local beef and lamb dishes at this rustic eatery.
Return to town for lunch; about 15 minutes away.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Uncover vibrant geothermal features in this stunning park, including the Champagne Pool.
25-minute drive from the lunch spot.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Skiing at Mt. Ruapehu (seasonal)

If you're visiting in winter, hit the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding.
Another hour's drive to the mountain.
NZD120, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Blue Baths

Enjoy a memorable dining experience set within the historic Blue Baths.
Drive back to Rotorua, around 1 hour.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Tongariro National Park

Drive to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed National Park for stunning landscapes.
A 1.5-hour drive via SH47.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Park Café

Fuel up with a generous breakfast overlooking the national park.
Located within the park's visitor center.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Hike one of New Zealand's most famous day hikes with breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
Begin your hike from the Ketetahi trailhead.
Free (Parking may incur fees)., 7 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Discovery Lodge

Relax at this lodge with homestyle cooking after a long day of hiking.
Just minutes from the park's main entrance.
NZD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing in Nature

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge before heading out for the day.
No travel needed, just a short walk.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Scenic Drive around the Park

Take a scenic drive showcasing the stunning views of Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro.
Take the loop through the park's accessible scenic routes.
Free (Fuel costs only)., 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chateau Tongariro Hotel

Dine in elegance at this historic hotel with views of breathtaking mountain scenery.
Drive directly to the hotel within 30 minutes.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax in the Thermal Pools

Soak in the thermal waters nearby after a fulfilling drive.
Nearby local spots available for relaxation.
NZD30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Cap off the day with comforting home-cooked meals and local specialties.
Back at your lodge.
NZD25, 1 hour
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Day 7: Adventure and Scenic Views

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Taupo

Drive to Taupo, famous for its stunning lake and adventure activities.
A 1.5-hour drive collecting scenic views.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Lake Taupo Hole in One

Enjoy a lakeside breakfast while trying to land a hole-in-one on the float.
Located right by the lake's edge.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:00AM

Skydiving over Lake Taupo

Experience the adrenaline rush of skydiving with stunning views of the lake.
Check-in at the local skydiving center.
NZD399, 3 hours

3:00PM

Relax by Lake Taupo

Unwind at the lake; enjoy swimming or a gentle walk along the shore.
Close by the skydiving center.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Indulge in a fine dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients.
A short drive from the lake.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Cave Exploration

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Waitomo

Drive to Waitomo, famous for its stunning glowworm caves.
A 2-hour drive through beautiful countryside.
NZD30, 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy a farm-style breakfast while soaking in lush green surroundings.
Close to the Waitomo Caves entrance.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:00PM

Glowworm Cave Tour

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the glowworm caves.
Tour begins at the Waitomo Caves center.
NZD115, 2 hours

3:00PM

Black Water Rafting

Experience an exhilarating underground river adventure with black water rafting.
Back to the Waitomo base for this thrilling activity.
NZD135, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Huhu Cafe

Enjoy delicious dishes highlighting organic produce and local flavors.
Close to the Waitomo area.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Surf and Relax

Raglan, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Raglan

Drive to Raglan, known for its laid-back surf culture and beautiful beaches.
A 45-minute drive via SH23.
NZD20, 45 minutes

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Raglan Roast

Enjoy an artisanal coffee and breakfast in this beach town café.
Located in the town center.
NZD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Surfing Lessons

Take surfing lessons from local instructors to catch the waves.
Local surf schools provide transport to and from the beach.
NZD130, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Orca Restaurant

Dine on delicious local seafood and gourmet dishes in a vibrant setting.
Just a short walk after your surfing session.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding on the beach enjoying the beautiful scenery.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Boat Shed

Experience delicious local dishes in a lovely waterfront setting.
5-minute drive from the beach.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Cultural and Nature Tour

Hamilton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Hamilton

Drive to Hamilton, known for its vibrant gardens and parks.
A short 40-minute drive.
NZD20, 40 minutes

9:00AM

Breakfast at La Femme

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at this popular cafe known for its good coffee.
Located centrally in Hamilton.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hamilton Gardens

Explore stunning themed gardens that showcase diverse flora from around the world.
Just a 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Helm

Enjoy a riverside dining experience with fresh seasonal menu.
A quick 5-minute drive.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Waikato Museum

Discover the cultural and artistic heritage of the Waikato region.
15-minute walk from The Helm.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Victoria Street Bistro

Dine on local dishes infused with international flavors in a chic setting.
Short drive from the museum.
NZD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Island Adventure

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Bay of Islands

Head to the beautiful Bay of Islands for stunning natural beauty.
A 3-hour drive up north via SH1.
NZD40, 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at The Pear Tree

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with beautiful harbor views.
Located in Paihia, a popular town in the bay.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Island Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise around the Bay of Islands and spot dolphins.
Board from Paihia wharf nearby.
NZD115, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Duke of Marlborough

Enjoy classic New Zealand dishes with views of the bay.
A 4-minute walk from the wharf.
NZD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Exploring the Bay

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Aroha

Start your day with a healthy breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Located in Russell, a picturesque town nearby.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Explore the historic site that symbolizes New Zealand's founding document.
10-minute drive from the café.
NZD45, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Waterfront Cafe

Delight in fresh seafood on the waterfront while soaking in the bay's ambiance.
Return to Paihia, close to the wharf.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Beach Time at Oneroa

Unwind on the sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters.
A short drive away from Paihia.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Vine

End your day with flavors inspired by the local harvest and fresh produce.
Back in Paihia, close to your previous locations.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Coastal Beauty

Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Coromandel Peninsula

Drive back south to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.
A scenic 4-hour drive from Bay of Islands.
NZD50, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Government Gardens

Savor lunch in a beautiful garden setting featuring local gourmet fare.
The Government Gardens are located near the sea.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hot Water Beach

Dig your own hot pool at this unique beach experience – a must-do!
Drive to Hot Water Beach just 20 minutes away.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cool Little Place

Enjoy artisan pizza in a quaint setting after your beach experience.
Located nearby in Hahei.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Final Relaxation

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Travel to Auckland

Drive back to Auckland for your final day in New Zealand.
A 2.5-hour drive via SH25 then SH1.
NZD25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Brunch at Bestie Cafe

Savor brunch in a relaxed atmosphere with local flavors.
Located downtown Auckland.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Queen Street

Explore the bustling shops and boutiques to find souvenirs and gifts.
A quick walk from the café.
Free (depending on purchases)., 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Auckland Art Gallery

Delve into contemporary art and see exhibitions featuring New Zealand artists.
A short walk from Queen Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Sidart

Bid farewell to New Zealand with a fine dining experience offering stunning views and amazing cuisine.
Located just a short drive away in the central city.
NZD80, 2 hours
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