8-Day Family-Friendly Nature Itinerary in New Zealand

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00 AM

Sky Tower

Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower, where breathtaking views of the vibrant Auckland skyline and surrounding landscapes await.
Located in the city center, just a short drive from most hotels.
NZD 32, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Depot

Enjoy a delicious family-friendly lunch at Depot, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and casual dining atmosphere.
Located near the Sky Tower, easy walk.
NZD 100 (for a family meal), 1 hour

1:30 PM

Auckland Domain and Wintergardens

Explore Auckland Domain's lush parkland and the stunning Wintergardens, a perfect spot for kids to run around and appreciate nature.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from Depot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel for the night, preparing for tomorrow's adventures.
Hotel pre-booked in Auckland city center.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Indulge in a warm family dinner at The Glass Goose, offering a menu full of seasonal dishes and a lovely ambiance.
Located about a 10-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD 120 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Federal Delicatessen, famed for its breakfast bagels and coffee.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
NZD 80 (for a family meal), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a picturesque drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders.
Approximately 3-hour drive south.
Variable (car rental cost), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Eat Street

Arrive in Rotorua and enjoy lunch at Eat Street, a lively hub with various eateries to please every palate.
Located in the city center of Rotorua.
NZD 100 (for a family meal), 1 hour

2:00 PM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Visit Te Puia, where you can witness geysers, bubbling mud pools, and Maori culture in a stunning natural setting.
5-minute drive from Eat Street.
NZD 150 (for family admission), 3 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind at the family-friendly Polynesian Spa, known for its soothing geothermal pools.
10-minute drive from Te Puia.
NZD 120 (family pass), 2 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at The Pig & Whistle

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Pig & Whistle, a friendly gastropub with a great atmosphere and kids’ menu.
5-minute drive from Polynesian Spa.
NZD 120 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at The Coffee Shop, known for its expansive menu and great coffee.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD 80 (for a family meal), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Taupo

Take a scenic one-hour drive to Taupo, famous for its stunning lake and adventure activities.
40-minute drive via SH1.
Variable (car rental cost), 1 hour

11:00 AM

Huka Falls

Visit the iconic Huka Falls, where you can marvel at the powerful water cascade and take a short walk along the scenic paths.
A 10-minute drive from the parking area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed

Enjoy lunch overlooking Lake Taupo at The Boat Shed, offering family-friendly menu options.
A short drive back towards Taupo town.
NZD 100 (for a family meal), 1 hour

2:30 PM

Lake Taupo Activities

Spend the afternoon enjoying water activities on Lake Taupo, such as kayaking or a scenic cruise.
Various vendors available near the lake.
NZD 200 (for family pass or rentals), 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bistro Lago

Savor a delightful dinner at Bistro Lago, featuring a menu focused on seasonal ingredients locally sourced.
Located along Lake Taupo.
NZD 150 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Wellington Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

7:30 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel before heading out on the road.
Enjoy a lovely breakfast at your hotel’s dining area.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital, with a scenic drive taking approximately 4 hours.
Via SH1 along the scenic Kapiti Coast.
Variable (car rental cost), 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Arrive in Wellington and dive into culinary delights on Cuba Street, with many options available.
This lively street is just a few minutes drive from the city center.
NZD 120 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Wellington Cable Car

Ride the Wellington Cable Car up to the Botanic Garden for fantastic city views and lovely walks.
Cable car station located within the city center.
NZD 30 (for family tickets), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Te Papa Museum

Explore Te Papa Tongarewa, showcasing New Zealand’s cultural heritage and natural history in an interactive way perfect for families.
Located near the waterfront, easy access.
Free entry; special exhibitions may vary., 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Wellington Night Market

Experience local flavors at The Wellington Night Market, offering street food from various cuisines and vibrant evening energy.
Held in the city center (check schedules).
NZD 80 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Abel Tasman Adventures

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:30 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on your next adventure.
Breakfast included in accommodation.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Flight to Nelson

Catch a morning flight to Nelson, setting you up for a day full of exploration.
30-minute flight from Wellington.
Approx. NZD 200 (per person), 1 hour total with check-in

10:30 AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Make your way to beautiful Abel Tasman National Park, known for its golden beaches and lush forests.
About a 1-hour drive from Nelson.
Variable (car rental cost), 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Awaroa Lodge

Refuel at Awaroa Lodge, offering a peaceful setting and delicious meals amidst surrounded by nature.
Located within the national park.
NZD 100 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Kayaking Adventure

Experience the park from the water with a family kayaking tour, exploring beaches and secluded coves.
Tours are available near the lodge.
NZD 250 (for family rental), 3 hours

5:00 PM

Short Hike to Cleopatra's Pool

After kayaking, go for a short family-friendly hike to Cleopatra’s Pool, a stunning natural swimming hole.
Trail starts nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Boat Shed

Savor dinner at The Boat Shed, enjoying fresh seafood by the waterside.
Located nearby in Abel Tasman.
NZD 150 (for family dinner), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Discover Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Kitchen

Kick off the day with a breakfast of freshly cooked meals at The Kitchen, perfectly child-friendly.
20-minute drive from Abel Tasman accommodation.
NZD 80 (for family meal), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Nelson Market

Experience the vibrant local culture at the Nelson Market, where artisans and food vendors gather every Saturday.
Located in the city center.
Free entry; extra for purchases., 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Urban Oyster

Relish fresh, locally sourced seafood at The Urban Oyster, a family-friendly spot near the waterfront.
Within walking distance from the market.
NZD 100 (for family meal), 1 hour

1:30 PM

Nature Walk at Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary

Visit the tranquil Shrine and take a short walk through the beautiful gardens and surrounding nature.
15-minute drive outside Nelson.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Picnic at Tahunanui Beach

Enjoy a family picnic at Tahunanui Beach, where kids can play in the sand and water while you relax.
About a 10-minute drive from the shrine.
NZD 40 (for picnic supplies), 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Smugglers Rest

End the day with dinner at The Smugglers Rest, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty meals.
About a 15-minute drive from Tahunanui Beach.
NZD 120 (for a family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with breakfast in your accommodation before heading out.
Included in accommodation.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Flight to Queenstown

Catch a flight to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand.
30-minute flight from Nelson.
Approx. NZD 200 (per person), 1 hour total with check-in

10:30 AM

Skyline Gondola

Ride the Skyline Gondola for stunning views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains.
Located just minutes from the airport.
NZD 120 (for family tickets), 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant, located at the top of the Gondola with spectacular views.
Located at the gondola terminal.
NZD 200 (for family meal), 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Outdoor Adventure at Lake Wakatipu

Spend the afternoon enjoying water sports or hiking around beautiful Lake Wakatipu.
Just a short drive or walk from the restaurant.
NZD 150 (for rentals or activities), 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Indulge in hearty Italian meals at The Cow, a unique restaurant known for its pizzas and rustic atmosphere.
Located in downtown Queenstown.
NZD 120 (for family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Christchurch Departure

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in New Zealand before heading to your next destination.
Included in accommodation.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Flight to Christchurch

Catch a morning flight to Christchurch, bringing you back to the South Island’s largest city.
30-minute flight from Queenstown.
Approx. NZD 150 (per person), 1 hour total with check-in

11:00 AM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, where kids can enjoy the playground and stunning flower displays.
Located near the city center.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Caffe Ciccero

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Caffe Ciccero, known for its friendly service and delicious coffee and food.
Short drive from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD 100 (for a family meal), 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore the Canterbury Museum

Visit the Canterbury Museum, where interactive exhibits make learning about the region's heritage fun for the whole family.
Located right next to the Botanic Gardens.
Free entry; special exhibitions may vary., 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Boathouse

End your trip with a delightful dinner at The Boathouse, enjoying great food with beautiful views.
Situated along the riverside.
NZD 150 (for family meal), 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability