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14-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip in New Zealand

Viewed by 158 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Start your adventure with panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower, offering a stunning view of the city and surrounding islands.
Head to Sky Tower in the city centre.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand's rich history and natural heritage at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Take a short bus ride from the Sky Tower.
NZD 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Elliott Stables

Enjoy a variety of international cuisines with your family at the vibrant Elliott Stables.
A quick 10-minute walk from the museum.
NZD 80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Waiheke Island

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island for stunning beaches and local vineyards; it's perfect for a family day out.
Ferries depart from the Auckland Ferry Terminal.
NZD 42, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Finish your day with a delicious meal at The Glasshouse with views of the sparkling marina.
Take the ferry back and a short taxi ride.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Head to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Rotorua

Set off early for a scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
Drive via State Highway 1 and then State Highway 5.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 3 hours

11:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Witness the bubbling mud pools and geysers, plus learn about Maori culture.
Located 10 minutes from downtown Rotorua.
NZD 60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Pig & Whistle

Savour hearty Kiwi dishes in a historic setting at the Pig & Whistle.
Short drive from Te Puia.
NZD 70, 1 hour

3:00PM

Redwoods Forest

Take an exhilarating walk or enjoy tree-top walking among ancient redwoods.
A short drive from the restaurant.
NZD 0 (Tickets for tree-top walk extra), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Visit the famous Eat Streat for a choice of family-friendly dining options with plenty of atmosphere.
Walk to Eat Streat from the Redwoods.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of fresh, local produce.
Located in the city center.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore the colourful geothermal wonders, including the famous Champagne Pool.
A 30-minute drive from Rotorua.
NZD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Lava Bar

Enjoy casual dining with a view at the Lava Bar just outside Wai-O-Tapu.
Located near the Thermal Wonderland.
NZD 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Agrodome Farm Show

Watch an entertaining sheep show and learn about farm life in New Zealand.
Drive back towards Rotorua's outskirts.
NZD 40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Lake Rotorua

Unwind with a relaxing walk around Lake Rotorua, where you can spot local birdlife.
Short drive from Agrodome.
NZD 0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Social Club

Enjoy a family-friendly menu with a variety of options in a trendy atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive back to Rotorua.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Exploring Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Taupo

Head to Taupo, enjoying the stunning views of Lake Taupo along the way.
Drive via State Highway 5.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Brantry

Taste a delightful breakfast made from local produce, with options for all kids.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Huka Falls

Witness the power of the Huka Falls and take a short walk around the area.
Short drive from the restaurant.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Coffee Station

Enjoy a quick and hearty lunch at a popular local café.
Located near Huka Falls.
NZD 60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lake Taupo Activities

Enjoy various activities like kayaking or cruising on Lake Taupo or even fishing.
Head to the Lake Taupo marina.
NZD 200 (for a family of four), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Taupo Boat Club

Dine by the lake with fantastic views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Short drive from the marina.
NZD 90, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Discover Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Tongariro National Park

Drive to Tongariro, home to stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
Follow State Highway 1 towards National Park.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café 88

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast before your adventures in the park.
Located near the entrance to the park.
NZD 60, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing (Optional)

If the family is adventurous, consider tackling this 19.4km hike with stunning landscapes.
Accessed through multiple points in the park.
NZD 0, 6-8 hours (consider the fitness levels of the family)

11:00AM

Taranaki Falls Walk

For a shorter option, enjoy a scenic 6km loop walk to Taranaki Falls.
Easily accessible and well-marked trail.
NZD 0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Tongariro National Park Café

Refuel with lunch at the café with incredible views.
Near the starting point of several hikes.
NZD 80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Whakapapa Village

Take some time to unwind and explore the small village, perfect for family picnics.
Short drive through the park.
NZD 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Park’s Restaurant

End your day with a hearty dinner while enjoying more stunning views.
In the National Park area.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 6: Wellington's Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Wellington

Set off for Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital city.
Follow State Highway 1 south.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 4 hours

12:00PM

Breakfast at the Airport Café

Enjoy breakfast upon arrival in Wellington at the bustling airport café.
Located at the airport for convenience.
NZD 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa

Explore New Zealand's national museum with fun interactive exhibits for all ages.
Drive into the city centre.
NZD 0 (Free Entry), 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Wellington Waterfront

Enjoy lunch overlooking the harbour; choose from a variety of food stalls.
Walk along the waterfront from Te Papa.
NZD 80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Take a scenic ride up to the Botanical Gardens with spectacular views.
Cable Car station near the waterfront.
NZD 10, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Cuba Street

Explore Cuba Street for dinner with eclectic eateries and lively ambiance.
Nearby the cable car station.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Discover Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Nelson

Journey to Nelson, known for its beautiful beaches and art scene.
Drive via State Highway 6.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Tides

Enjoy a delicious breakfast by the sea at The Tides Café.
Located near the beach.
NZD 60, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Founders Heritage Park

Spend time discovering the history of Nelson in this beautiful park setting.
Short drive from the café.
NZD 20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Boat Shed Café

Enjoy a scenic lunch with views across the water.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD 80, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Start your adventure by exploring the stunning landscapes of Abel Tasman National Park.
Drive towards the park entrance.
NZD 0 (Park entry free, activities extra), 4 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Nelson Market

Conclude your busy day at Nelson's night market enjoying local delicacies.
Head to the market area in Nelson.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Abel Tasman Adventures

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Awaroa Lodge

Fuel up for a day of adventure with a hearty breakfast at the lodge.
Located inside Abel Tasman National Park.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Abel Tasman; a fun activity for the whole family.
Join a guided kayaking tour.
NZD 240 (for a family of four), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch Packed Lunch

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch packed before your kayak tour.
Have lunch on the beach after kayaking.
NZD 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the Coastal Track

Take a short hike along the breathtaking Coastal Track to enjoy the stunning views.
Access points are well-marked.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Anchorage Bay

Unwind at the beach with swimming and relaxing as a perfect end to the day.
Short walk from the hiking trail.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the park lodge

Delight in local dishes for dinner overlooking the park scenery.
Back to Awaroa Lodge.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Scenic Punakaiki

Punakaiki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Punakaiki

Drive to Punakaiki, famous for its Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
Drive via State Highway 6 along the stunning coast.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Punakaiki Resort

Indulge in a relaxing breakfast with ocean views at the resort.
Located in Punakaiki.
NZD 70, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit the Pancake Rocks

Witness the unique rock formations and blowholes; it's a must-see!
Short walk from the resort.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Pancake Rocks Café

Enjoy a casual lunch with stunning views of the rocks.
Located near the Pancake Rocks.
NZD 70, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Punakaiki Cavern

Take a guided tour through the caves and learn about the local geology.
Just a short drive away.
NZD 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pororari River Track

Enjoy dinner in a peaceful setting surrounded by natural beauty.
Head to the track area.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Punakaiki

Day 10: Glacial Adventure

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Franz Josef

Drive through beautiful mountain scenery to reach Franz Josef Glacier.
Continuing on State Highway 6.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Glacier View Motel

Enjoy breakfast overlooking the glacier at this welcoming motel.
Located in Franz Josef.
NZD 70, 1 hour

12:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take a guided walk to the glacier and learn about the amazing environment.
Head to the Glacier access point.
NZD 200 (for a family of four), 3 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at the Main Street Café

Grab a bite at this café, famous for its light meals and warm atmosphere.
Located in the village area.
NZD 60, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind in the hot pools while enjoying the stunning alpine views.
Short walk from the café.
NZD 140 (for a family of four), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

End your day with a delicious dinner made from fresh local ingredients.
A short drive away.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 11: Adventures in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Queenstown

Drive to Queenstown, known for its adventure sports and stunning scenery.
Continue on State Highway 6.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 4 hours

12:00PM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Savour a hearty breakfast with fresh coffee at this popular local café.
Located in the town centre.
NZD 60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Skyline Gondola

Take the gondola for breathtaking views of Queenstown; enjoy lunch at the top.
Short walk from the café.
NZD 100 (for a family of four), 3 hours

4:00PM

Luge Ride

Experience the thrill of the luge, perfect for families and all ages.
Located at the gondola station.
NZD 80 (for a family of four), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

Savor the legendary Fergburger, a must-try for any visitor.
Locate near the town centre.
NZD 80, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Te Anau and the Fiords

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Te Anau

Journey to Te Anau, the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park.
Travel via State Highway 6 and 94.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy a riverside breakfast while preparing for the day ahead.
Located in Te Anau town.
NZD 50, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lake Te Anau Cruise

Experience a scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau, with stunning views of the surroundings.
Head to the Te Anau wharf.
NZD 160 (for a family of four), 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Te Anau Club

A friendly local club, serving delicious comfort food.
Located in the town centre.
NZD 60, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take a guided tour to see the magical glowworms in the caves.
Short walk to the boat dock.
NZD 140 (for a family of four), 2.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Fat Duck

Conclude the day in a unique environment with an exciting menu at the Fat Duck.
Located nearby.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 13: Exploring Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Te Anau

Fuel up at a local café before heading out.
Find a place open early in Te Anau.
NZD 50, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Milford Sound

Drive along the breathtaking route to Milford Sound; take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Follow the road to Milford Sound.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 2 hours

11:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Join a scenic cruise to experience the stunning fjord and its waterfalls up close.
Board from the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 380 (for a family of four), 2 hours

1:30PM

Picnic Lunch at the Sound

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.
On the cruise, enjoy your pre-packed lunch.
NZD 40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Milford Sound

Stroll around the area and take in the awe-inspiring nature.
Walk around the picturesque area.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Travel back to Te Anau

Return to Te Anau after an unforgettable day.
Drive back along the scenic route.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Te Anau

Enjoy dinner with a view at a local restaurant.
Choose a nearby local eatery.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel back to Auckland

Set out early for the drive back to Auckland.
Retrace your route back on State Highway 1.
NZD 0 (Fuel only), 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Vulcan Lane

Enjoy a refreshing lunch in the heart of Auckland.
Located downtown Auckland.
NZD 80, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Auckland Art Gallery

Discover the impressive collection of New Zealand art in a stunning architectural setting.
A short drive or walk from the restaurant.
NZD 0 (Free Entry), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sidart

Finish your trip in style with a fine dining experience at Sidart, offering exquisite dishes.
A drive back to the city centre.
NZD 250, 2 hours

8:00PM

Night at your accommodation

Reflect on your adventures in New Zealand before heading home.
Return to your lodging.
NZD 0, As long as you wish
Find Hotels in Auckland
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