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12-Day Family Adventure through Stunning New Zealand

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Auckland Sky Tower

Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Auckland Sky Tower, taking in the panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Located in the heart of Auckland, easily accessible by public transit or rental vehicle.
NZD38, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Depot

Savour delicious Kiwi-style dishes at Depot, known for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive or walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pick Up Campervan

Collect your spacious campervan, perfect for family adventures across New Zealand's rugged landscapes.
Rental locations are centralized in Auckland.
NZD150/day, 2 hours

5:00PM

Camping at Waitakere

Settle into your first campsite at Waitakere Regional Park, surrounded by lush forests and stunning beaches.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Auckland.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Hobbiton Adventure

Hobbiton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Hobbiton

Hit the road early for a scenic drive to the legendary Hobbiton Movie Set, where the film came to life.
A 2-hour drive from Waitakere to Matamata.
Fuel cost: NZD20, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hobbiton Tour

Explore the charming village of Hobbiton, marveling at the iconic hobbit holes and lush gardens.
Tours available on-site.
NZD89, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Green Dragon Inn

Enjoy a themed lunch at the Green Dragon Inn, sampling traditional fare and brews.
Located within the Hobbiton Movie Set.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Next, head to Waitomo Caves famed for its glowworm caves and breathtaking underground rivers.
Approx. 1-hour drive from Hobbiton.
Fuel cost: NZD10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Camping near Waitomo

Find a campsite near Waitomo and unwind under the stars.
Campsites available in the nearby area.
NZD25, Evening
Find Hotels in Hobbiton

Day 3: Waitomo Wonder

Waitomo, New Zealand

9:00AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Discover the enchanting glowworm caves and take a boat ride through the magical glowworm grotto.
Tours start from the Waitomo Caves visitor centre.
NZD55, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Huka Falls

Continue the adventure to Huka Falls, a stunning natural water feature that roars with energy.
About a 1-hour drive from Waitomo.
Fuel cost: NZD10, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Huka Falls Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch with a view of the majestic falls.
The restaurant is situated near the falls.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Huka Falls

Stroll along the paths to experience the falls up close and take family photos amidst the scenery.
Easy walking paths from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Taupo

Make your way to Taupo, a town set on the shores of a beautiful lake.
Approx. 15-minute drive from Huka Falls.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Camping near Lake Taupo

Settle at a lakeside camping area where the whole family can enjoy the picturesque views.
Camping grounds around Lake Taupo.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 4: Taupo and Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café overlooking Lake Taupo.
Various cafes are located along the lakefront.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture.
Approx. 1-hour drive to Rotorua.
Fuel cost: NZD10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Explore the spectacular geothermal wonders of Te Whakarewarewa, including mud pools and geysers.
Located just outside central Rotorua.
NZD50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Smokehouse

Taste traditional Maori cuisine at the renowned Smokehouse restaurant.
Located within the Te Whakarewarewa complex.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Redwoods Forest

Walk amongst towering Californian redwoods in timeless tranquility, with family-friendly trails.
Located a short drive from Rotorua.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Camping near Rotorua

Find a family-friendly camping area close to Rotorua, perfect for an evening of storytelling.
Multiple campsites available.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Wellington Awaits

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Hit the road for Wellington, New Zealand's capital city known for its vibrant culture.
Approx. 3-hour drive from Rotorua.
Fuel cost: NZD20, 3 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Sample cuisine from eclectic eateries along Cuba Street, bustling with activity and locals.
Heart of Wellington, easily walkable.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Wellington Cable Car

Ride the Wellington Cable Car for stunning views while ascending to the Botanic Gardens.
Easily accessible from downtown.
NZD6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy a pack lunch amidst the greenery.
Located directly above the cable car station.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Camping in Wellington

Find a local campsite or holiday park to rest for the night.
Multiple options available around Wellington.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: South Island Discovery

Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Set off early towards Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak.
Approx. 3-hour drive from Wellington to Mount Cook.
Fuel cost: NZD25, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at a Local Lodge

Dine at the local lodge with incredible views of Mount Cook.
Located in the heart of Mount Cook Village.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore Mount Cook National Park

Enjoy day hikes and stunning scenery, including walks suitable for all ages.
Variety of trails available from the visitor centre.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Camping in Mount Cook

Settle at a campsite surrounded by the majestic landscapes of the national park.
Campsites available within the park.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

Day 7: Queenstown Adventures

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Depart Mount Cook for the bustling adventure capital of Queenstown.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
Fuel cost: NZD15, 2 hours

10:00AM

Kiwi Park Queenstown

Visit Kiwi Park to see native wildlife, including the iconic Kiwi bird.
Easily accessible from the town centre.
NZD22, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch in Downtown Queenstown

Enjoy lunch at a cafe on the waterfront with stunning lake views.
Multiple dining options along the waterfront.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through the scenic Queenstown Gardens, perfect for a family picnic or simply relaxing.
Located near the town centre.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Kayaking at Lake Wakatipu

Enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking on the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, a great family activity.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals available near the lake.
NZD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Camping in Queenstown

Settle at a lakeside campsite for a restful night’s stay.
Multiple options near Lake Wakatipu.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 8: Fiordland National Park

Fiordland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Depart for Fiordland National Park

Leave Queenstown early to make the most of your day in Fiordland National Park.
Approx. 1.5-hour drive.
Fuel cost: NZD15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Experience a breathtaking cruise around Milford Sound, surrounded by stunning fiords and waterfalls.
Cruises depart from Milford Sound terminal.
NZD85, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Have a lunch break at the nearby café, enjoying the views of the fiord.
Located close to the cruise terminal.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Exploration of Fiordland

Explore walking paths and lookout points for breathtaking views of the surrounding park.
Trailheads located near Milford Sound.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Camping in Fiordland

Find a local campsite within Fiordland National Park for a night surrounded by nature.
Campsites available within the park.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Fiordland

Day 9: Wanaka Wonders

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Travel from Fiordland to the charming town of Wanaka, known for its stunning lakeside views.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
Fuel cost: NZD15, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Lake Wanaka

Take a wander along the shores of Lake Wanaka, perfect for a family photo with the famous lone tree.
Accessible from the township.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lunch at a Lakefront Café

Dine at a lakeside café with a varied menu and fantastic views.
Several options along the lakefront.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Hike in Mount Aspiring National Park

Enjoy a family-friendly hike in nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Trailheads located on the outskirts of Wanaka.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Camping near Wanaka

Choose a scenic camping spot by the lake for the night.
Multiple camping options in Wanaka.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 10: Franz Josef Exploration

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Set off to visit the dramatic Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding rainforest.
Approx. 4-hour drive.
Fuel cost: NZD30, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy lunch at a popular eatery in Franz Josef village.
Located in the heart of the village.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Experience a guided walk near the glacier, perfect for all ages eager to learn.
Guided tours can be booked in the village.
NZD90, 2 hours

5:00PM

Camping near Franz Josef

Settle into a campsite close to the glacier for an overnight stay.
Campsites available within the area.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 11: Kaikoura Coastline

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Make your way to the beautiful coastal town of Kaikoura, famed for its marine experiences.
Approx. 4-hour drive from Franz Josef.
Fuel cost: NZD30, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Green Dolphin

Savour a delicious seafood lunch at this well-known local establishment.
Easily locatable in Kaikoura.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Head out to sea for a spectacular whale watching experience, a highlight for the family.
Tours depart from main wharf.
NZD125, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Cape Foulwind Viewpoint

Visit the stunning viewpoint to observe the magnificent seal colony.
Approx. 30-minute drive from Kaikoura.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Camping near Kaikoura

Campsite options available where you can unwind after a busy day.
Multiple spots around Kaikoura.
NZD30, Evening
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 12: Adventure End

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Set off towards Christchurch, marking the end of your unforgettable New Zealand journey.
Approx. 2.5-hour drive from Kaikoura.
Fuel cost: NZD25, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch in Christchurch

Enjoy a farewell lunch at a popular eatery in Christchurch city centre.
Various dining options available.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens in the heart of the city.
Located near the city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return Campervan

Return your campervan to the rental agency before your evening flight or onward journey.
Rental returns centralized in Christchurch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you memories of your unforgettable family adventure.
Depart from Christchurch Airport.
Free, Flexible
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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