Adventure-Packed Family Itinerary to Explore New Zealand

Day 1: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Goodie Grocer

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fresh produce and local treats at this lovely café.
Head towards the Sky Tower after breakfast.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Auckland Sky Tower

Visit the iconic Sky Tower for stunning views of the city and beyond.
Easy walking distance from Goodie Grocer.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Campervan Rental

Pick up your campervan and stock up on supplies for the road trip.
Rental companies are near the city centre.
NZD120 (daily rental), 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

This eatery offers a great selection of sandwiches and salads perfect for a family.
Drive to Federal Street, approximately 15 minutes.
NZD70, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Travel to Hobbiton

Drive to Hobbiton movie set and soak in the enchanting scenery.
It takes about a 2-hour drive from Auckland.
N/A, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Take a guided tour to see the iconic hobbit holes and enjoy the magical landscape.
Select from tours upon arrival.
NZD79, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Green Dragon Inn

Dine at the Hobbiton pub, enjoying traditional fare in a charming setting.
On-site at Hobbiton.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Caves & Gardens

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Prepare a simple breakfast before heading out.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:15 AM

Travel to Waitomo Caves

Drive from Hobbiton to Waitomo for about 1 hour.
Follow State Highway 3.
N/A, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience the unique glowworms in these stunning caves on a guided tour.
Book tours online or in advance.
NZD55, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy a relaxed outdoor lunch with great views.
5-minute drive from the caves.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Travel to Hamilton Gardens

Take a scenic drive to the beautiful Hamilton Gardens.
It's about a 1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Hamilton Gardens

Wander through themed gardens that offer a glimpse into international garden styles.
Easy walking within the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Travel to Rotorua

Head towards Rotorua, a key location for geothermal activities.
It's about a 1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Explore local food vendors and have a meal at this vibrant street food option.
Located in Rotorua city centre.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Natural Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Make a quick breakfast with your supplies.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Discover unique geothermal features and learn about Maori culture on a guided tour.
15-minute drive from your location.
NZD50, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Te Puia Café

Enjoy lunch showcasing local produce in a beautiful location.
On-site at Te Whakarewarewa.
NZD60, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Marvel at colourful geothermal pools in this stunning wonderland.
20-minute drive from Te Whakarewarewa.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Travel to Lake Taupo

Take the scenic drive to Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand.
1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Lake Taupo Walk

Enjoy a sunset stroll along the lakefront, ideal for families.
Easy access from the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

6:15 PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Relax at this lovely restaurant with a family-friendly menu and great views.
Located close to the lake.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Scenic Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Enjoy breakfast before returning to the road.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Wellington

A 4-hour scenic drive to the capital city of New Zealand.
Follow State Highway 1.
N/A, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Aunty Mena's

Savour homemade pastries and a delightful menu at this popular spot.
Near the capital's centre.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Wellington Cable Car

Take the iconic cable car to enjoy sweeping views of the city.
Accessible from the café by a short walk.
NZD8, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Stroll through lush gardens filled with native species and beautiful landscapes.
Walk from the cable car station.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Learn about New Zealand's treasures at the national museum.
Short drive or walk from the Botanic Gardens.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Sailor's Son

This charming eatery offers a family-friendly menu with local cuisine.
A quick drive or short walk back to your accommodation.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: South Island Adventure

Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Start your day with breakfast in your camper.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Mount Cook

Begin your journey to Mount Cook, a 4-hour drive anticipation.
Follow the scenic route through the countryside.
N/A, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Mount Cook Village Café

Enjoy a riverside lunch with views of the stunning mountains.
On-site at the village.
NZD60, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Hooker Valley Track

Walk this scenic track, passing glacial lakes and incredible mountain views.
Trailhead is at the Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Tasman Glacier Viewpoint

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Tasman Glacier from this lookout point.
Drive to the designated viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Old Mountaineers’ Café

Feast on local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, great for families.
Located in the village.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Pack a light breakfast for the road.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Queenstown

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive towards Queenstown.
Follow State Highway 6.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in one of the world's most famous burgers at this local icon.
Located in the heart of Queenstown.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the beautiful gardens beside the lake.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore Lake Wakatipu.
Rental companies near the lake.
NZD80, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner with a rustic vibe and Italian options.
Located close to the lakefront.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

7:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Start the day early with a nutritious breakfast.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Milford Sound

Embark on a 2-hour drive to stunning Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s top attractions.
Follow State Highway 94.
N/A, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Explore the breathtaking scenery of the fiords on a boat cruise.
Book your cruise in advance.
NZD85, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Refuel with simple meals and snacks in this scenic café.
On-site in Milford Sound.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Fiordland National Park

Hike a short trail to witness the park’s breathtaking landscapes.
Numerous trails start from the visitor centre.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Travel to Wanaka

Return to Wanaka, approximately 4 hours from Milford Sound.
Follow State Highway 6.
N/A, 4 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

Savour local dishes in a relaxed family-friendly environment.
Located in the town centre.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Leisure at Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while enjoying views of the lake.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Wanaka Lavender Farm

Explore the beautiful lavender fields and enjoy local products.
A short drive from the camper.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Kayaking at Lake Wanaka

Discover the stunning lake views from a different perspective on the water.
Rent gear near the lakefront.
NZD80, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Cow Café

Head to this cozy café known for its pizzas and warm atmosphere.
Locally popular spot.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Puzzling World

Explore a quirky attraction with illusion rooms and life-sized maze.
Just a quick drive from lunch.
NZD30, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Jack Rabbit Restaurant

Enjoy stunning views of Wanaka lake while dining on delectable dishes.
Short drive from Puzzling World.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Nature at Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Pack breakfast for a day of exploration.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Kaikoura

A scenic 4-hour drive along the coast to Kaikoura.
Follow State Highway 1.
N/A, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Dine on sumptuous local seafood with wonderful ocean views.
Located right on the seafront.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the thrill of spotting these magnificent creatures up close.
Book tours in advance for better availability.
NZD150, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Walk along the Kaikoura Coastline

Stroll along the coastal path, enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
Starting from the whale-watching centre.
Free, 1 hour

6:15 PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Enjoy fresh local seafood and fish and chips in a casual atmosphere.
Short walk from the coastline.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Christchurch Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Prepare a cozy breakfast in your van.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Christchurch

Drive to Christchurch, approximately 2.5 hours away.
Follow State Highway 1.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at The Collective

Enjoy a selection of food vans and options in a fun shared space.
Located in the heart of the city.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Wander through beautiful gardens and discover the park's serenity.
A close walk from The Collective.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Quake City

Learn about the earthquakes that shaped the city’s resilience and rebirth.
A quick drive or walk from the gardens.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Little High

Savour diverse cuisine from multiple vendors in this popular dining hub.
Short drive from Quake City.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Nature at Hokitika

Hokitika, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Start the day with breakfast in your camper.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Hokitika

Head to Hokitika for stunning coastal views, roughly 3 hours away.
Follow State Highway 6.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at the Hokitika Bakery

Enjoy fresh pies and coffee at this local favourite.
Located in the town centre.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Hokitika Gorge Walk

Explore the stunning river and lush surroundings in this beautiful area.
Short drive from the town centre to the gorge.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Hokitika Glow Worm Dell

Experience the magical glow worms in this peaceful forest area.
A short drive from Hokitika Gorge.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Stumpers Bar & Cafe

Enjoy a casual family dinner with a relaxed vibe and solid pub fare.
Located in Hokitika town.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Final Adventures

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast in the camper

Enjoy your last breakfast on the road.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Christchurch

The final driving leg back to Christchurch, only about 2.5 hours.
Easily reachable via State Highway 1.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at The Pita Pit

Enjoy health-conscious wraps and pockets in a casual setting.
Located within the city.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore Christchurch Cathedral

Admire the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral in the heart of the city.
Short walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Walk in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through 21 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens.
Adjacent to the cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Final Dinner at Dux Dine

Celebrate your journey with a delightful meal featuring local produce and seafood.
Short drive from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD80, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability