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12-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in New Zealand's North and South Island

Viewed by 289 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on September 4, 2024

9:00AM

Auckland Sky Tower

Start your adventure with stunning city views from the iconic Auckland Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere.
Take a bus or taxi to the Sky Tower from your accommodation.
NZD 32, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Orbit 360° Dining

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the revolving restaurant on top of the Sky Tower, taking in panoramic views as you eat.
Located within the Sky Tower.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Auckland Domain & Museum

Explore the beautiful gardens of Auckland Domain, followed by a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum to appreciate New Zealand's history.
Walk or take a short taxi ride.
NZD 25, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Giapo

Indulge in innovative ice cream at Giapo, known for its unique flavours and artistic presentation.
Head to Giapo in central Auckland.
NZD 15, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Hobbiton Day Trip

Matamata, New Zealand on September 5, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Hobbiton

Take the scenic drive (approximately 2 hours) to the Hobbiton Movie Set.
Follow State Highway 1 south.
NZD 0, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Explore the magical world of Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit with a guided tour of Hobbiton.
Start your tour at the visitor centre.
NZD 75, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

Savour a Hobbit-inspired meal and a specially brewed beverage at The Green Dragon Inn.
Located within the Hobbiton set.
NZD 30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy your drive to Rotorua (approximately 1 hour).
Via State Highway 5.
NZD 0, 1 hour

4:30PM

Redwoods Forest Exploration

Take a walk or bike ride through the stunning Redwoods Forest in Rotorua.
Drive to the forest park entrance.
NZD 0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy a delightful meal in a relaxed atmosphere at this popular Rotorua eatery.
Head to the city centre.
NZD 25, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Matamata

Day 3: Rotorua Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand on September 6, 2024

8:30AM

Visit Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Explore the geothermal wonders of Te Whakarewarewa, including geysers and hot springs.
Short drive to the site.
NZD 40, 2 hours

11:00AM

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

View vibrant thermal pools and the famous Champagne Pool in this stunning geothermal park.
Drive to Waiotapu (approximately 30 minutes).
NZD 38, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch Picnic at Lake Rotorua

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views by the lake.
Find a lakeside park.
NZD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Huka Falls Visit

Witness the impressive Huka Falls, where torrents of water rush through a narrow canyon.
Drive to Huka Falls (approximately 45 minutes).
NZD 0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pig & Whistle

Experience a fusion of Kiwi and international cuisine at this popular local pub.
Head to central Taupo.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Taupo Adventures

Taupo, New Zealand on September 7, 2024

8:30AM

Visit Taupo's Lakefront Walk

Enjoy a morning stroll along the beautiful Lake Taupo shoreline.
Start the walk from your accommodation.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Optional Skydiving or Scenic Flight

For thrill-seekers, consider a skydiving adventure for unparalleled views of the lake.
Book through local operators.
Approx. NZD 300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lake Taupo's Bistro

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local bistro overlooking the lake.
Choose a lakeside cafe.
NZD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Wellington

Take the scenic drive to Wellington (approximately 4.5 hours).
Follow State Highway 1.
NZD 0, 4.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Capitol Restaurant

Enjoy New Zealand cuisine in a modern setting at this Wellington hotspot.
Located in the city centre.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Wellington Fun

Wellington, New Zealand on September 8, 2024

9:00AM

Wellington Cable Car

Ride the historic cable car for stunning views of the city and the harbour.
Walk to the cable car station from your accommodation.
NZD 7, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wellington Botanic Garden

Explore the beautiful gardens adjacent to the cable car.
Accessible via the cable car exit.
NZD 0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fidel’s Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch at this popular cafe, known for its hearty breakfasts and tasty lunches.
Head to the cafe nearby.
NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Te Papa Museum

Visit the national museum of New Zealand, which offers engaging exhibits about the country's culture and natural wonders.
Short walk from the cafe.
NZD 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hunter Lounge

Relax and enjoy a meal at this laid-back bar and restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere.
Located nearby Te Papa.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: Journey to South Island

Christchurch, New Zealand on September 9, 2024

10:00AM

Fly to Christchurch

Catch a morning flight to Christchurch for your South Island adventure.
Head to Wellington Airport for your flight.
Approx. NZD 100, 1 hour (flight)

12:00PM

Arrive in Christchurch

Explore the picturesque city of Christchurch post-arrival.
Rent your vehicle from the airport.
NZD 0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Running Late Cafe

Grab lunch at this quirky cafe known for its excellent coffee and hearty meals.
Located centrally in Christchurch.
NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Botanic Gardens and Avon River

Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens and take a punting tour on the Avon River.
Near the city centre.
NZD 35 (punting), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bohemian

Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting, perfect for families.
Walk to the restaurant from the gardens.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 7: Mount Cook Adventure

Mount Cook, New Zealand on September 10, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Start your day early, driving towards Mount Cook National Park (approximately 3.5 hours).
Via State Highway 80.
NZD 0, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mount Cook Visitor Centre

Learn about the park's natural history at the visitor centre.
Located at the entrance of the park.
NZD 0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Old Mountaineers' Cafe

Enjoy a scenic lunch at this lovely cafe overlooking the mountains.
Located within the park.
NZD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hooker Valley Track

Embark on the popular Hooker Valley Track for stunning views of glaciers and mountains.
Start at the track's entrance.
NZD 0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hermitage Hotel

Dine at this beautiful hotel restaurant, featuring a great view of Aoraki Mount Cook.
Located nearby the park.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

Day 8: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand on September 11, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Depart early for the drive to Queenstown, enjoying the gorgeous scenery (approximately 2.5 hours).
Via State Highway 8.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Kiwi Park Queenstown

Visit this interactive park to learn about New Zealand’s native wildlife and conservation efforts.
Drive to the park entrance.
NZD 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Try the famous gourmet burgers at Fergburger, a must-visit while in Queenstown.
Located in downtown Queenstown.
NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu and take in the stunning mountain views.
Board near the waterfront.
NZD 40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Queenstown Gardens

Dine at a local restaurant with beautiful garden views.
Head to the gardens post-cruise.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Wanaka Wonders

Wanaka, New Zealand on September 12, 2024

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Travel the short distance from Queenstown to Wanaka (approximately 1 hour).
Via State Highway 6.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm

Explore the beautiful lavender fields, great for photos and relaxation.
Drive to the farm entrance.
NZD 5, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Gentil

Enjoy a delicious meal at this popular bistro, with lovely views of the lake.
Located close to Wanaka Lake.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Lake Wanaka Beach Relaxation

Spend some time relaxing on the shores of Lake Wanaka, taking in the beautiful scenery.
Head to the waterfront.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The White House

Indulge in a delightful dinner at this sophisticated restaurant known for its seasonal menu.
Located in Wanaka town.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 10: Fiordland Exploration

Milford Sound, New Zealand on September 13, 2024

6:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Depart early for the breathtaking drive to Milford Sound (approximately 2.5 hours).
Via Milford Road.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Take a scenic cruise in Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most famous natural wonders.
Board from the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 90, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Cafe

Refuel with a meal at the small cafe located at the terminal.
Located near cruise terminal.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Fiordland National Park

Take some time to explore more of the stunning Fiordland National Park after your cruise.
Walk to nearby scenic viewpoints.
NZD 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Head back to Queenstown after an adventurous day (approximately 2.5 hours).
Retrace your route.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

End your day with a delightful dining experience at Botswana Butchery, known for its commitment to quality.
Located at the waterfront in Queenstown.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 11: Kaikoura Whale Watching

Kaikoura, New Zealand on September 14, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Head out early for the drive to Kaikoura (approximately 3.5 hours).
Via State Highway 1.
NZD 0, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy a lovely seafood lunch at The Pier Hotel with ocean views.
Conveniently located in Kaikoura.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the thrill of a guided whale watching tour to spot some of the majestic creatures off the coast.
Board from Kaikoura's wharf.
NZD 150, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Take a scenic walk along the coastline for breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
Access the walkway from the town centre.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Treat yourself to scrumptious seafood and local dishes at this popular restaurant.
Short drive from the walkway.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 12: Final Day in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on September 15, 2024

9:00AM

Visit the Christchurch Art Gallery

Explore the exhibitions of contemporary art at the Christchurch Art Gallery.
Short drive to the gallery.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Riverside Market

Visit the Riverside Market for local crafts and food stalls showcasing the region's produce.
Located near the city centre.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Final Lunch at The Spotted Cow

Savour a relaxed lunch with local dishes and drinks to wrap up your trip.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Head to Airport

Make your way to the airport for departure, reflecting on your incredible adventure through New Zealand.
Drive from the city centre.
NZD 0, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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