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

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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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