10-Day Family Friendly Road Trip in New Zealand - Explore Cities, Nature, and Foodie Delights

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kaka Moa

Enjoy a hearty brunch at Kaka Moa, serving delicious local eggs and fresh smoothies to energise your day.
Located in the central business district, just a short drive from most accommodations.
NZD 80, 1 hour

10:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Head to the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking views of the city and beyond; the kids will love the glass floor viewing panels.
A short drive from Kaka Moa.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot

Savour a delicious lunch at Depot, renowned for its fresh and locally sourced dishes, perfect for a foodie family.
Just a few blocks away from the Sky Tower.
NZD 120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Auckland Zoo

Visit the Auckland Zoo where the kids can see native animals, including the famous Kiwi, native birds, and much more.
A quick drive from the city centre.
NZD 80, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Glass Goose

Enjoy dinner at The Glass Goose, offering a selection of New Zealand wines and gourmet dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Back towards the city centre, easily accessible.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fat Dog Café

Start your day at Fat Dog Cafe with its generous portions of breakfast items and great coffee that will keep the family fueled.
Drive from Auckland to Rotorua takes about 3 hours.
NZD 100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Geothermal Park at Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders in Te Puia, with bubbling mud pools and geysers; a must-see in Rotorua.
About a 10-minute drive from breakfast spot.
NZD 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pig & Whistle

Enjoy lunch at The Pig & Whistle, a family pub with an extensive menu including kid-friendly options.
Approximately a 5-minute drive from Te Puia.
NZD 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Redwood Forest Walk

Take a relaxing stroll through the stunning Redwood Forest; it's a lovely family walk with lots of space to explore.
Just 10 minutes from lunch.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Head to Eat Streat for dinner where you can try various local food stalls and find something for everyone.
A short drive from the Redwood Forest.
NZD 130, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature at Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brantry

The Brantry offers delicious breakfast options with a beautiful view of the lake, perfect for starting your day right.
Drive from Rotorua to Taupo; it takes about 1 hour.
NZD 90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Taupo Activities

Enjoy kayaking or opt for a boat cruise on Lake Taupo, experiencing its stunning views and water activities.
Groceries for the cruise are available on the lakefront.
NZD 200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lake Taupo Hole in One

Delight in a light lunch with a lakeside view and the famous hole in one challenge for the kids.
Take a short drive or walk to the venue.
NZD 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Huka Falls Visit

Visit the magnificent Huka Falls, where you can take scenic photos and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
About 10 minutes from lunch.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Savour dinner at The Landing where you can enjoy seasonal dishes and kid-friendly meals.
Close to the Huka Falls, making it an easy transfer.
NZD 120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Coastal Beauty in Napier

Napier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mocca Coffee

Start the day with delicious coffee and breakfast at Mocca Coffee, a local favourite known for its friendly service.
The drive from Taupo to Napier is about 2 hours.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Art Deco Historic Walk

Stroll through the beautiful Art Deco architecture of Napier, perfect for family photos and exploring local shops.
Begin from the cafe to downtown Napier.
NZD 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Urban Vineyard

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Urban Vineyard, surrounded by beautiful gardens with child-friendly options on the menu.
A quick drive from the Art Deco area.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the National Aquarium

Explore the National Aquarium of New Zealand, featuring diverse marine life; it’s fun and educational for the family.
Just a 5-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 110, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Old Church

Dine at The Old Church which is known for its excellent dishes made from local produce in a unique ambiance.
Another short drive from the aquarium.
NZD 150, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Capital City Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nina’s Café

Kickstart your day at Nina’s Café, famous for its inviting breakfasts and stunning views of the harbour.
Drive from Napier to Wellington; it takes about 4 hours.
NZD 90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wellington Cable Car

Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car for thrilling views of the city, followed by exploring the Botanic Gardens.
Cable car station is close to downtown.
NZD 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sweet Mother's Kitchen

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Sweet Mother's Kitchen, overflowing with local charm and hearty food your family will love.
About a 10-minute walk from the gardens.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Explore the interactive exhibits at Te Papa, offering an enriching cultural experience the children will adore.
Nearby lunch spot, only a short walk.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Dinner at Logan Brown, a fine dining restaurant that features seasonal menu items, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
A 15-minute walk or short drive from the museum.
NZD 220, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Culinary Delights in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lemongrass

Indulge in a healthy breakfast at The Lemongrass known for its delightful smoothies and fresh ingredients.
Drive from Wellington to Nelson in around 1.5 hours.
NZD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nelson Saturday Market

Visit the vibrant Nelson Saturday Market; explore local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious snacks.
Walking distance from breakfast spot.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Boat Shed Café

Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at The Boat Shed Café, located right on the waterfront offering stunning views.
A leisurely stroll from the market.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Founders Heritage Park

Explore Founders Heritage Park, where history meets fun; it offers interactive displays and activities suitable for families.
About a 10-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 80, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Smugglers Pub & Café

Finish the day with hearty pub food at The Smugglers, a family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant coastal setting.
A quick drive from the park.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: West Coast Wonders at Punakaiki

Punakaiki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Warehouse Café

Grab a delicious breakfast at The Warehouse Café, with a great local vibe and tasty offerings.
It's a scenic drive from Nelson to Punakaiki, taking around 2 hours.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Discover the amazing Punakaiki Pancake Rocks; the kids will be mesmerized by the unique rock formations and blowholes.
Very close to the café, easy to walk.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Paparoa National Park

Take a family-friendly hike in Paparoa National Park, enjoying stunning scenery and fresh air.
Access to hiking trails near the Pancake Rocks.
NZD 0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pancake Rocks Café

Savour a light lunch at Pancake Rocks Café, ideal for refueling mid-journey with a variety of options.
Located at the Pancake Rocks site.
NZD 90, 1 hour

2:30PM

Check-in at Accommodation and Rest

Check-in to your accommodation and enjoy some downtime after an exciting day of exploration.
Accommodation is nearby.
NZD 200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Punakaiki Tavern

Dine at The Punakaiki Tavern, where you can enjoy local seafood and a relaxed atmosphere for families.
Easy to walk from your accommodation.
NZD 140, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Glacial Views in Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Franz Josef Café

Begin your day with a great breakfast at The Franz Josef Café, known for its warm atmosphere and good food.
Scenic drive from Punakaiki to Franz Josef lasts about 2.5 hours.
NZD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Experience the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier with a guided walk, suitable for families looking for adventure.
Guided tours are available at the glacier site.
NZD 300, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Canopy Restaurant

Rejuvenate with lunch at The Canopy, featuring delicious menus with local ingredients and views of the rainforest.
Located near the tour meeting point.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Enjoy the relaxing Glacier Hot Pools, a family-friendly activity where you can unwind after a day of adventure.
About a 5-minute drive from the café.
NZD 90, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

End the day with dinner at The Landing, offering hearty meals that satisfy every member of your family.
Just a short drive from the Glacier Hot Pools.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Adventures in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Savour breakfast at Vudu Café, which offers a wide variety of meals to kickstart your exciting day in Queenstown.
Drive from Franz Josef to Queenstown; it takes approximately 4.5 hours.
NZD 90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola

Take the Skyline Gondola to enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown, with plenty of family-friendly activities at the top.
Located centrally in Queenstown, easily accessible.
NZD 120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant, located on the mountain, offers stunning views and a buffet style food experience perfect for families.
On-site at the top of the gondola.
NZD 220, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Luge Rides at Skyline

Experience the thrill of luge rides; it’s family fun that everyone will enjoy!
Also at the Skyline venue.
NZD 100, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax by Lake Wakatipu

Spend some time relaxing by Lake Wakatipu; maybe enjoy some ice cream from a nearby shop.
Walk down from Skyline to the lakefront.
NZD 30, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Wrap up the day with a hearty dinner at The Cow, famous for its delicious pizzas and rustic atmosphere.
A short walk from Lake Wakatipu.
NZD 150, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: History and Scenery in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Etrusco

Begin your final day with breakfast at Etrusco, a lovely café with rich coffee and delicious breakfast options.
Drive from Queenstown to Dunedin takes about 3.5 hours.
NZD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Join a wildlife tour on the Otago Peninsula to see rare species like albatross and yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat.
Approx 30-min drive from the café.
NZD 200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Good Oil

Enjoy a casual lunch at Good Oil, which serves fresh, local produce and dishes that will satisfy everyone in the family.
Back towards the city centre.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Larnach Castle

Explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle; it’s rich in history with beautiful gardens, perfect for a family outing.
A short drive from lunch.
NZD 75, 2 hours

4:30PM

Farewell Dinner at 1908 Café Restaurant

Conclude your family adventure at 1908 Café Restaurant with a farewell dinner, serving exceptional dishes from local produce in a beautiful setting.
Located in Dunedin city centre.
NZD 180, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability