9-Day Relaxation and Nature Itinerary in South Island, New Zealand on a Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Start your journey with a peaceful stroll in the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a free entry experience with stunning floral displays.
Walking distance from downtown.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Discover the intriguing exhibits showcasing the unique natural history of the area at the Canterbury Museum, which offers free admission.
Just a short walk from the Botanic Gardens.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bicycle Thief

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch of fresh pizza and salads at The Bicycle Thief, known for its affordable menu.
Short walk from the museum.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Punt on the Avon River

Experience a serene punt ride on the Avon River, a unique and calming way to see Christchurch.
Meet at the riverbank by the botanic gardens.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk through the City Centre

Take a leisurely walk through the revitalised city centre and enjoy a coffee at a street café.
Walking distance from the river.
NZD5, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Drive

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Start your day with a delightful breakfast of fresh bagels and coffee at Caffeine Laboratory.
Short walk from your hotel.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Embark on a scenic self-drive to Lake Tekapo, with stunning views along the way.
Follow State Highway 73 and 8; about a 3-hour drive.
NZD30 (fuel), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Tin Plate

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch with beautiful views at The Tin Plate by the lake.
Located near the lakeside.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Marvel at this beautiful stone church with stunning lakeside views, a great photo op!
5-minute walk from the café.
NZDFree, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Free Time at Lake Tekapo

Spend your afternoon relaxing by the lake, walking along its shores and admiring the scenery.
Just enjoy the area.
NZDFree, 2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Mountains

Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Hermitage Hotel

Indulge in a budget-friendly breakfast with stunning views at The Hermitage Hotel before discovering awe-inspiring Mount Cook.
Located at Mount Cook National Park.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike the Hooker Valley Track

Embark on a scenic hike along the Hooker Valley Track, leading you to breathtaking views of Mount Cook and glacial lakes.
Start from the Hermitage Hotel.
NZDFree, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a lunch and enjoy a stunning picnic in the national park surrounded by nature.
Enjoy it anywhere along the track.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Mount Cook Visitor Centre

Learn more about the unique flora and fauna of the region at the Mount Cook Visitor Centre.
Just a short drive from the Hooker Valley.
NZDFree, 1 hour

3:00PM

Scenic Drive to Queenstown

Drive towards Queenstown for your next adventure, taking in the breath-taking scenery along the way.
Follow State Highway 8 and then State Highway 6; drive time about 3 hours.
NZD30 (fuel), 3 hours
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Day 4: Adventure and Relaxation

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yonder

Enjoy a nice breakfast of green smoothies and breakfast bowls at Yonder to fuel up for a day of adventures.
Located in Queenstown centre.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola

Take the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of Queenstown and its stunning landscapes.
Short walk from your breakfast spot.
NZD45, 2 hours

11:30AM

Luge Ride

Race down the Luge tracks for a fun experience complemented by incredible views.
Located at the top of the gondola.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Savour iconic burgers at Fergburger, famous for its generous portions and delicious flavours.
Short walk from the gondola.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Unwind with a scenic lake cruise across the stunning Lake Wakatipu.
Depart from Queenstown's lakefront.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Evening Walk along the Lake

Take a leisurely walk along the lake, soaking in the picturesque views as you enjoy the fresh air.
Just walk along the lakefront.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Wonders

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00AM

Make Your Own Breakfast

Prepare a quick breakfast at your hotel or accommodation before heading out for the day.
At your accommodation.
NZD10, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Bus to Milford Sound

Take an early bus to Milford Sound, enjoying the stunning scenery along the way.
Walk to the bus departure point.
NZD90, 5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Grab a quick and easy lunch at the café near the ferry terminal.
At Milford Sound.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Take an unforgettable boat cruise through the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound.
Board at the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return Bus to Queenstown

Head back to Queenstown with wonderful memories of your Milford Sound experience.
Catch the return bus.
NZD90, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at a Local Pub

Enjoy a casual dinner in Queenstown at a local pub, with meals that won’t break the bank.
Several options in town centre.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Lakeside Relaxation

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel or Café

Have breakfast at your accommodation or visit a local café for a light meal.
At your hotel or within Wanaka.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Set out towards Wanaka, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.
Drive via State Highway 6; about a 1 hour drive.
NZD10 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Take a photo of the iconic Wanaka Tree standing beautifully in the lake.
Just a short drive into Wanaka’s town centre.
NZDFree, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Explore Puzzling World

Have fun at Puzzling World with its optical illusions and maze activities.
Short drive from the town centre.
NZD20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kai Whakapai

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Kai Whakapai with stunning views of the lake.
Located in Wanaka town centre.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lake Wanaka Walk

Take a relaxing lakeside walk to soak in the natural beauty surrounding Lake Wanaka.
Just walk along the lakefront.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Glacier Wonderland

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the glaciers.
At your hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Drive to the stunning Franz Josef Glacier, known for its breathtaking scenery.
Take State Highway 6; about a 3-hour drive.
NZD30 (fuel), 3 hours

11:30AM

Hike Around the Glacier

Take a self-guided hike along trails in Franz Josef Glacier, with stunning views at no cost.
Follow marked paths from the visitor centre.
NZDFree, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Stop for a light lunch at The Landing Café after your glacier exploration.
Located in Franz Josef town.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax in Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind in the natural hot pools, soothing your muscles after your adventures.
A short drive from the glacier.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive Back to Greymouth

Take the scenic drive to Greymouth for an overnight stay.
Follow State Highway 6; around a 3.5-hour drive.
NZD40 (fuel), 3.5 hours
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Day 8: Oceanic Views

Greymouth, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Accommodation

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Greymouth before exploring the area.
At your hotel.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Stroll along the Beach

Walk along Greymouth's stunning coastline and enjoy the fresh ocean air.
Head towards the beachfront; it's a short drive.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Shantytown Heritage Park

Explore this open-air museum that depicts New Zealand's gold mining era; take a trip back in time!
Short drive from the beach.
NZD25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Shipwreck Restaurant

Enjoy affordable seafood and local dishes with beautiful beach views.
Located conveniently near the park.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Drive Back to Christchurch

Head back towards Christchurch for your final night.
Follow State Highway 7; about a 3-hour drive.
NZD35 (fuel), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Little High Eatery

Grab a casual meal at Little High Eatery, featuring various affordable food options.
Located in Christchurch.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Departure Day

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and reflect on your South Island adventure.
At your hotel.
NZD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at New Brighton Beach

Spend your morning unwinding at New Brighton Beach, soaking in the sea breeze.
Short drive from the city centre.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Beach Cafe

Stop by this beachfront café and enjoy a light meal with ocean views.
Located at New Brighton.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Revisit the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens to enjoy the lush surroundings before departure.
Drive back toward the city centre; about 20 minutes.
NZDFree, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Browse local shops or markets to find memorable souvenirs from your journey.
Walking distance from the gardens.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:30PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight home, taking wonderful memories with you.
15-minute drive to the airport.
NZDFree, N/A
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