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14-Day Family Friendly Adventure Through New Zealand

Viewed by 87 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower

Kick off your adventure with stunning panoramic views from the iconic Sky Tower, engaging the family in the surrounding sights.
Take the Link Bus to Victoria Street, then a short walk.
NZD 32, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Elliott Stables

Enjoy a diverse selection of food options at this modern dining precinct, perfect for the family to pick their favourite dishes.
Short walk from Sky Tower.
NZD 75, 1 hour

2:00PM

Auckland Zoo

Visit the Auckland Zoo to connect with native wildlife and have fun-filled educational experiences.
20-minute drive from the city centre.
NZD 59, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360

Dine at Auckland's revolving restaurant for a unique culinary experience with breathtaking views.
Return to the Sky Tower area.
NZD 200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Head south to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture, with a stop at Hobbiton along the way for some magical moments.
Take State Highway 1, then turn onto East State Highway 5.
NZD 40 (fuel), 3 hours drive with 1-hour stop

12:00PM

Lunch at Fat Dog Cafe

Enjoy generous portions of delicious meals in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in the Rotorua city centre.
NZD 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Te Puia's geothermal wonders and experience Maori culture through cultural performances.
Short drive from the cafe.
NZD 80, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Princes Gate Hotel

Enjoy a hearty meal with family-friendly options and a taste of local cuisine.
Located close to Te Puia.
NZD 160, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Start your day with fresh coffee and scrumptious breakfast dishes that cater to the whole family.
Visit the Coffee Shop in Rotorua city centre.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Discover the stunning geothermal features, including the famous Champagne Pool, as you trek through this colorful park.
Drive for 30 minutes on State Highway 5.
NZD 49, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lakefront Restaurant

Savour lake views as you indulge in dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
Drive back to Rotorua.
NZD 90, 1 hour

2:00PM

Skyline Rotorua

Take the gondola ride and enjoy stunning views, followed by an afternoon of luge rides guaranteed to thrill everyone.
5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the restaurant.
NZD 79 per person, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Finish off the day enjoying a buffet meal with a 5-star view of Rotorua.
Located at Skyline Rotorua.
NZD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Taupo Awaits

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Continue your family adventure towards Taupo, home to sparkling Lake Taupo and thrilling activities.
A brief 1-hour drive via State Highway 1.
NZD 20 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Brantry

Savor a splendid breakfast at this renowned eatery with amazing lake views.
Located in Taupo, a short drive from the lake.
NZD 70, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Huka Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Huka Falls, a must-see nature highlight in Taupo.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cookie Time

Stop for a light lunch featuring their freshly baked cookies and sandwiches.
Short drive back to Taupo town.
NZD 40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lake Taupo Boat Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Taupo, discovering its beauty and perhaps spotting some wildlife.
Walk along the lakefront to the cruise departure.
NZD 130, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Sports Bar & Grill

End the day with hearty meals in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for families.
Located in Taupo town.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Take a scenic drive to the famous Tongariro National Park, famous for its stunning landscapes.
Drive for around 1 hour via State Highway 1.
NZD 20 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Tongariro Holiday Park

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at the park facilities.
Located inside Tongariro National Park.
NZD 70, 1 hour

11:00AM

Whakapapa Visitor Centre

Visit the informative visitor centre before embarking on an accessible walking trail suitable for the whole family.
Drive to the visitor centre, 10 minutes from the park.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Tokaanu Thermal Pools

Take a break and enjoy a lovely lunch at Tokaanu before soaking in the hot springs.
Short drive to Tokaanu.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Soak in the Thermal Springs

Relax in the natural thermal pools, providing a rejuvenating experience for the entire family.
Located just at the lunch spot.
NZD 60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely dinner with a view of the mountains, perfect to reminisce about the day's adventures.
Located at the Tongariro National Park.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 6: Culture and Capital in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Journey to Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital, to indulge in culture and local cuisine.
Drive for around 4.5 hours via State Highway 1.
NZD 70 (fuel), 4.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Explore the lively food scene along Cuba Street, with plenty of family-friendly options.
Located in the city centre.
NZD 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Engage the family with interactive exhibits and learn about New Zealand's history at this national museum.
Short walk from Cuba Street.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Ride the Cable Car

Take the scenic cable car ride to Kelburn for sweeping views of the city.
Short walk from Te Papa Museum.
NZD 9 per person, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at LJS (The Local Jones)

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at this trendy restaurant, offering varied options for the family.
Short drive from the cable car exit.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Art and Nature in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel to Nelson, known for its art, craft beer, and stunning coastline.
Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, then drive for 1.5 hours to Nelson.
NZD 70 (ferry + fuel), 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed Cafe

Enjoy a scenic seaside meal with fresh ingredients at The Boat Shed Cafe.
Located along the waterfront.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful sands of Abel Tasman, either through walking or kayaking.
Drive to the park entrance (approx 30 minutes).
NZD 100, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's Restaurant

Savor gourmet dishes made with local produce in this casual yet elegant dining experience.
Return to Nelson, about a 30-minute drive.
NZD 200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Abel Tasman Adventures

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Tahi Cafe

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast in this charming café near the beach.
Located at the edge of Abel Tasman.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Set off for a guided kayaking tour, paddling along the scenic coastline filled with wildlife interaction opportunities.
Meet at the tour starting point within Abel Tasman.
NZD 150 per person, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the stunning beaches along the Abel Tasman coast.
Find a beautiful spot after kayaking.
NZD 40 (picnic supplies), 1 hour

2:00PM

Walking Trail Exploration

Embark on family-friendly walking trails through the national park’s lush forests and beaches.
Choose a trail suitable for the kids.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Honest Lawyer

Enjoy relaxing meals in a warm atmosphere with a family-friendly menu.
Return to Nelson.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Head towards Franz Josef, known for its majestic glacier landscapes.
Take a 5-hour drive via SH6; scenic views along the way.
NZD 70 (fuel), 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Enjoy a soothing meal with views of the stunning scenery surrounding Franz Josef.
Located just nearby.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Experience the breathtaking beauty on the short walk to the glacier for spectacular views.
Access the trail from the town centre.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Alpine Grill

Savor authentic West Coast cuisine ranging from fresh seafood to hearty meats in a family-friendly setting.
Located in Franz Josef.
NZD 140, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 10: Queenstown Fun

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy a morning drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
A 4-hour scenic drive via SH6.
NZD 50 (fuel), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Treat the family to world-famous burgers at Fergburger, a must-do in Queenstown.
Located right in town.
NZD 80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Queenstown Gondola and Luge

Ride the gondola for spectacular views followed by exhilarating luge rides that the kids will love!
Short walk to the gondola station.
NZD 70 per person, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savour fine cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere with delicious options for the whole family.
Short walk from the gondola.
NZD 160, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Adventure in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a quick drive to Wanaka, with its beautiful lake and mountains, perfect for family activities.
Short 1-hour drive via SH6.
NZD 30 (fuel), 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lakeview Cafe

Enjoy a lakefront breakfast with delicious selections and kids’ friendly options.
Located on the lakeshore.
NZD 70, 1 hour

10:30AM

Wanaka Tree

Take an iconic family photo at the famous tree in the lake, a beloved Wanaka attraction.
Short drive or walk from the cafe.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Puzzling World

Engage in family fun with optical illusions, puzzles, and the unique maze.
A short drive from the tree.
NZD 60, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Good Spot Cafe

Relax with a light lunch in a welcoming environment, perfect for kids.
Located near Puzzling World.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Lake Wanaka Activities

Spend the afternoon enjoying various watersports or simply relaxing by the stunning lake.
Short walking distance from the cafe.
NZD 100 (varies by activity), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Bison

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner offering locally-sourced dishes.
Located in Wanaka town.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 12: Te Anau Tranquility

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Travel to Te Anau, the gateway to breathtaking Fiordland.
A beautiful 2-hour drive south via SH94.
NZD 30 (fuel), 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Redcliff

Indulge in a wholesome breakfast with varied family-friendly options.
Located in Te Anau town.
NZD 60, 1 hour

11:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore the famous glowworm caves and be amazed by nature's light show.
Short drive to the glowworm cave entrance.
NZD 115 (per adult, family rates available), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Relax with lunch at this popular spot with a lovely atmosphere.
Located in Te Anau.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Te Anau Lakefront Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Te Anau Lakefront, perfect for family photos.
Access from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Steakhouse

Wind down with a hearty dinner, perfect after a day of exploration.
Located in Te Anau.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 13: Milford Sound Majesty

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Early Drive to Milford Sound

Set off early for Milford Sound, ensuring a full day of exploring this stunning natural wonder.
Drive for about 1 hour from Te Anau.
NZD 20 (fuel), 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Milford Sound Lodge

Indulge in breakfast while absorbing the majestic views of the sounds.
Located at Milford Sound.
NZD 70, 1 hour

10:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking boat cruise through Milford Sound, where you might spot waterfalls and dolphins.
Board from the Milford Sound marina.
NZD 150 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Cafe

Enjoy a filling lunch at this scenic cafe overlooking the spectacular sound.
Located near the boat marina.
NZD 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take the Scenic Walk

Spend the afternoon walking along the designated trails for breathtaking views of the fjords.
Access points available near the cafe.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Drive back to Te Anau for Dinner

Return to Te Anau and savor a delicious dinner, reliving the day's excitement.
Drive back for 1 hour.
NZD 20 (fuel), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Moose Bar & Restaurant

Wind down at this relaxed eatery featuring a range of tasty meals suitable for all tastes.
Located in Te Anau.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Farewell Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Complete your adventure with a drive to Christchurch to explore the beautiful garden city.
Take State Highway 1 for approximately 6 hours.
NZD 70 (fuel), 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Black Betty

Savor a delightful lunch in this friendly bistro back in Christchurch.
Located in the Riccarton area.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the enchanting Botanic Gardens, an ideal way to enjoy your last afternoon in New Zealand.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Affair

Conclude your 14-day adventure with a sumptuous dinner featuring a fusion of flavors.
Located in the city centre.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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