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12-Day Family Friendly Road Trip in New Zealand on a Shoestring Budget

Viewed by 161 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

10:00AM

Arrive in Auckland

Welcome to New Zealand! After picking up your rental car, get settled for your adventure.
Drive from Auckland Airport to the city centre.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Food Truck Garage

Savour some tasty gourmet burgers at this quirky food truck while enjoying family-friendly vibes.
Walk or drive to the nearby Food Truck Garage.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Auckland Domain

Stroll through Auckland's oldest park, featuring beautiful gardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
A short 5-minute drive from Food Truck Garage.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Head to Mission Bay

Spend the late afternoon at the beach, letting the kids play in the sand while enjoying ice cream from a local shop.
Drive 15 minutes to Mission Bay.
NZD15, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Zeppa

Share delicious tapas in a family-friendly environment before returning to your accommodation.
Drive back to the city centre.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with plenty of options for everyone.
Walk to The Coffee Club from your accommodation.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Ascend the iconic Sky Tower for unrivaled views of Auckland and beyond!
Short walk from The Coffee Club.
NZD100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Betty's Burgers

Enjoy a casual lunch of burgers and fries in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Drive to Betty's Burgers nearby.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Spend the afternoon surrounded by exotic animals and native wildlife at the Auckland Zoo.
A short 15-minute drive from Betty's Burgers.
NZD75, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Viaduct Harbour

Find a family-friendly restaurant amidst the vibrant harbour environment, taking in the views.
15 minutes' drive to Viaduct Harbour.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tuck Shop Cafe

Fuel up with an energising breakfast before starting your drive to Rotorua.
Drive to Tuck Shop Cafe in about 20 minutes.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set off for Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture.
Drive approximately 3 hours to Rotorua.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fat Dog Cafe & Bar

Enjoy a quirky, family-friendly café atmosphere with delicious meal options.
Drive to Fat Dog Cafe, just 5 minutes from your arrival.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and learn about Māori culture at Te Puia.
Drive another 10 minutes to Te Puia.
NZD95, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Kuirau Park

Take a leisurely evening stroll through this local geothermal park with free thermal hot pools.
Drive 10 minutes to Kuirau Park.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Rodeo

Taste authentic New Zealand cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere.
Drive back towards the city centre.
NZD50, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Visit Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Soul Cafe

Kickstart your morning with freshly made dishes and good coffee.
Drive to Soul Cafe, 10 minutes from your accommodation.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Taupo

Head to Taupo, known for its stunning lake views, just a short drive away.
Again, it’s about 1 hour travel to Taupo.
NZD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at the beautiful blue waters and the thundering waterfall with walking tracks suitable for families.
Drive a further 15 minutes from Taupo.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Taupo Fish and Chips

Enjoy delicious fish and chips by the lake at this popular spot.
A short 10-minute drive from Huka Falls.
NZD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Taupo Lakefront

Spend the afternoon walking along the scenic lakefront, letting kids play in the outdoor parks.
Walk from the fish and chips shop.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Discover unique geothermal landscapes full of craters and steaming vents.
Drive 15 minutes from Taupo Lakefront.
NZD48, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Indulge in a wholesome dinner with local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Drive back to Taupo.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Travelling to Napier

Napier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dunes

Enjoy a delicious and plentiful breakfast before heading to Napier.
Drive to The Dunes in town.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Napier

Make your way to Napier on an hour's scenic drive.
Head south for about 1 hour.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Art Deco District

Wander around the beautifully restored buildings in Napier’s famous Art Deco District.
Drive a short distance to the district.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Mission Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at this winery with great views and delightful food.
Drive about 15 minutes to the restaurant.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit National Aquarium of New Zealand

Spend the afternoon at this family-friendly aquarium featuring local marine wildlife.
A short drive of 10 minutes.
NZD60, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Marine Parade

Let the kids enjoy the playground while you relax in the beautiful park area by the ocean.
Walk to Marine Parade from the aquarium.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Thai Hutt Restaurant

End the day with tasty Thai dishes at this family-friendly spot.
Drive back towards the town centre.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Napier

Day 6: Exploring Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Fill up on a hearty breakfast in a fun and friendly atmosphere before setting off.
Drive to The Breakfast Club in Napier.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wellington

Head out for a scenic drive towards the capital, Wellington.
Approximate drive time is 4 hours.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Green Man Pub

Grab a satisfying lunch in a cozy pub setting with kid-friendly options.
Arrive in downtown Wellington and find the pub.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Spend the afternoon exploring New Zealand's national museum with interactive exhibits perfect for families.
Walk to Te Papa from the pub.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Crab Shack

Enjoy a delightfully casual seafood dinner with stunning harbour views.
Walk to The Crab Shack from Te Papa.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Head to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet As Cafe

Start your day with sweet or savoury treats from this lovely café.
Drive to Sweet As Cafe from accommodation.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nelson

Set off on a beautiful journey, taking in views of mountains and coastlines.
Expect about a 2-hour drive to Nelson.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Nelson's Market

Browse the stalls at the market, with locally made food options available throughout.
Drive to the market area.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Founders Heritage Park

Explore this living museum showcasing Nelson's history with activities for children.
A quick drive to Founders Heritage Park.
NZD30, 2 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Tahunanui Beach

Unwind at the beach and let the kids play in the sand after a fun day.
Drive about 15 minutes to the beach.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Honest Lawyer

Dine at this family-friendly venue, known for its laid-back atmosphere and great food.
Drive back to Nelson city centre.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Adventure in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with breakfast at your own pace before heading to the park.
Stay in Nelson and drive out.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Enjoy the stunning coastal views on your way to the park's entrance.
Expect a 1-hour journey.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Abel Tasman National Park

Spend the day hiking or taking a kayaking tour to explore the incredible scenery.
Park at the welcome centre.
NZD50, 6 hours

4:00PM

Lunch within the park

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the beautiful beach spots in the park.
Find a cozy spot on the beach.
NZD30, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Park Cafe

Finish the day with a cozy dinner at the café offering local dishes.
Drive back to the café after exiting the park.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Travel to Greymouth

Greymouth, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Workshop

Indulge in yummy baked goods and coffee at this artsy café.
Drive to The Workshop in Nelson.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Greymouth

Head towards Greymouth, experiencing stunning mountain scenery.
Plan for about 3 hours of driving.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Greymouth's Historic Railway Station

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the cafe at the Historic Railway Station.
Drive into Greymouth, a short distance from the main road.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Monteith's Brewery Tour

Take a family-friendly brewery tour where kids can explore and taste non-alcoholic drinks.
A short drive from the lunch location.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Greymouth Beach

Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the coastal view and beach activities.
A quick 10-minute drive to the beach.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Angels Rest

Finish off your day with a hearty dinner that the whole family will love.
A short drive from the beach.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 10: Drive to Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aha Cafe

With fresh food and great coffee, start your day off right!
Close by in Greymouth.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Experience some of New Zealand's stunning mountainous landscape during your drive.
Prepare for a 2-hour scenic drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Enjoy a relaxed meal post drive at this charming restaurant.
Located close to your accommodation.
NZD70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Franz Josef Glacier

Explore the breathtaking scenery of the glacier, one of the most impressive on the planet.
A quick drive to the glacier.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Review at Pizzeria

Have some delicious pizza at this cozy spot, great for families where everyone finds something they’d love.
Head back into town for dinner.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 11: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bella Cucina

Enjoy an Italian breakfast or some classic kiwi toast.
Quick stroll from your accommodation.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Queenstown

Get ready for a scenic ride to the iconic adventure capital of New Zealand.
Plan for about 4 hours of driving.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Treat your family to one of the best burgers around at this famous burger joint.
Find Fergburger in Queenstown.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Take a relaxing afternoon walk around the stunning gardens located by the lake.
Short drive and then walking distance to the gardens.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Savor the delightful pizzas at this charming eatery with a warm atmosphere.
A short walk from the gardens.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Journey to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Joe's Garage

Fuel your journey with a matched coffee and breakfast at this well-known local spot.
Drive to Joe's Garage in Queenstown.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Extend your adventure by driving to Christchurch, the city of gardens.
Prepare for a 5-hour drive.
NZD0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Running Bull

Enjoy a relaxed pub-style lunch in the heart of the city.
Find the pub in city centre.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Spend your afternoon walking through the beautiful gardens packed with family-friendly attractions.
Drive to the Botanic Gardens.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dux Dine

Celebrate the end of your trip with a meal at this delicious restaurant known for its local flavours.
Short drive to Dux Dine.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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