14-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Kick off your adventure with stunning panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
Drive to Sky Tower from city centre.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Auckland Zoo

Immerse the family in wildlife fun at Auckland Zoo, home to over 140 species.
15-min drive from Sky Tower.
NZD 24, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Enjoy delicious French-inspired cuisine at La Cigale, a popular eatery with a bustling market atmosphere.
10-min drive from Auckland Zoo.
NZD 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium

Marvel at marine life, including sharks and penguins, at this fascinating aquarium.
20-min drive from La Cigale.
NZD 40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360°

Experience a rotating dining experience at Orbit 360°, offering great views and exquisite dishes.
20-min drive from the aquarium.
NZD 80, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Auckland Art Gallery

Discover the magnificent collection of national and international art at Auckland's famous art gallery.
10-min drive from central accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a scenic ferry ride to Waiheke Island, renowned for its beautiful beaches and vineyards.
30-min ferry ride.
NZD 42, 4 hours including travel time

3:00PM

Lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard, surrounded by stunning views and lush landscapes.
5-min drive from the ferry terminal.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Auckland

Ferry back to Auckland for the evening.
30-min ferry ride.
Included in the earlier ticket., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Depot

Experience casual dining at Depot, famous for its fresh ingredients and sharing plates.
15-min drive from the ferry terminal.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture.
3-hour drive from Auckland.
Fuel cost ~NZD 50., 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Located along a buzzing street, Eat Streat offers a variety of food stalls and restaurants.
Short drive from your accommodation.
NZD 40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences at Te Puia.
15-min drive from Eat Streat.
NZD 75, 3 hours

4:00PM

Polynesian Spa

Relax in the mineral hot springs at Polynesian Spa, perfect for unwinding as a family.
10-min drive from Te Puia.
NZD 140 (family pass)., 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Savour locally sourced ingredients in a warm, family-friendly setting.
5-min drive from Polynesian Spa.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Adventure at Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Set off to Taupo, a picturesque town famous for its lake and adventure activities.
1-hour drive from Rotorua.
Fuel cost ~NZD 20., 1 hour

10:30AM

Huka Falls

Witness the stunning Huka Falls, a must-see natural wonder with magnificent blue waters.
15-min drive from Taupo town centre.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Lake Taupo Fisheries

Enjoy a casual family lunch with lakeside views and tasty seafood dishes.
20-min drive from Huka Falls.
NZD 50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Taupo Boat Cruise

Take a scenic boat tour to view the stunning Maori rock carvings along the lakeside.
Short drive from the restaurant.
NZD 70 (family pass)., 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bistro

Experience local flavours in a relaxed family atmosphere at The Bistro.
5-min drive from the boat cruise dock.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature and Adventure

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

A scenic drive through lush landscapes brings you to New Zealand's oldest national park.
1-hour drive from Taupo.
Fuel cost ~NZD 20., 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a day hike showcasing dramatic volcanic scenery.
Start from optimal trailhead.
Free., 7-8 hours

5:30PM

Return to Drive to Accommodation

Wrap up the day with a relaxing drive back to accommodation.
Drive back to Taupo for the night.
Fuel cost ~NZD 20., 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Vinegar Hill

After a long day, unwind at Vinegar Hill with comfort food and hearty options.
5-min drive from your accommodation.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Journey to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel to the capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene.
4-hour drive from Taupo.
Fuel cost ~NZD 50., 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Experience the quirky cafes and shops on Cuba Street, grabbing lunch at a food truck.
Short drive to Cuba Street.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Te Papa Museum

Visit New Zealand's national museum, filled with interactive and engaging exhibits.
Short walk from Cuba Street.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cable Car Ride

Take a scenic cable car ride to the Botanic Gardens, providing stunning views of the city.
10-min walk from Te Papa.
NZD 9 (family pass)., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Wellington Waterfront

Enjoy dining along the waterfront with a range of dining options that cater to all tastes.
5-min walk from the cable car station.
NZD 100, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Crossing to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

9:00AM

Ferry to Picton

Catch a scenic ferry across the Cook Strait to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
Drive to ferry terminal, then ferry ride.
NZD 90 (family pass)., 3 hours including travel time

12:00PM

Lunch at The Gilded Kiwi

Relish Kiwi-inspired dishes in a relaxing atmosphere upon arriving in Picton.
Short walk from the ferry terminal.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Marlborough Sounds

Embark on a short kayaking expedition in the serene waters of the Marlborough Sounds.
Kayak rental shops nearby.
NZD 80 (family rental)., 3-4 hours

5:30PM

Return to Accommodation

Hour of relaxation before dinner.
Drive to accommodation.
NZD 50., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Seabreeze Cafe

Taste fresh seafood in this family-friendly Picton restaurant.
5-min drive from your accommodation.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Nelson and Wine Tasting

Nelson, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Enjoy a scenic drive to Nelson, a city known for its arts scene and nearby vineyards.
1.5-hour drive from Picton.
Fuel cost ~NZD 30., 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Nelson Market

Delight in the vibrant Nelson Market, filled with local crafts and produce, on Saturday mornings.
Head to the city centre.
Free., 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed Cafe

Savour delicious seasonal dishes prepared with local produce right by the water.
5-min drive from the market.
NZD 60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Wine Tasting at Neudorf Vineyards

For adults, indulge in some of the best wines in Nelson while the kids can explore the gardens.
30-min drive from the cafe.
NZD 25 (adults)., 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Auckland

Travel back to Nelson for the night.
Drive back to Nelson.
Fuel cost ~NZD 40., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Free House

Experience craft beers and hearty food in Nelson's charming venue.
Short drive from accommodation.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Get ready to dive into the stunning beauty of Abel Tasman National Park.
1-hour drive from Nelson.
Fuel cost ~NZD 20., 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking Adventure

Embark on a family kayaking trip through the crystal-clear waters of Abel Tasman.
Book a kayaking tour in advance.
NZD 120 (family package)., 2 hours

12:00PM

Beach Picnic Lunch

Relax beachside and enjoy a scenic picnic lunch prepared from local produce.
Find a spot on the beach.
NZD 50 (for food supplies)., 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking to Anchorage

Venture on a family-friendly hike to Anchorage, surrounded by stunning coastal views.
Mark the hiking trail earlier.
Free., 3 hours

4:00PM

Return to Nelson

Drive back to Nelson for a restful evening.
Drive back to Nelson.
Fuel cost ~NZD 20., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's

Wrap up your day with delicious cuisine focused on seafood and local ingredients.
Short drive from your accommodation.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

A scenic, winding drive takes you to the stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
5-hour drive from Nelson.
Fuel cost ~NZD 70., 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at a bistro style restaurant with mountain views before exploring.
Short drive from the glacier base.
NZD 60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Franz Josef Glacier

Take a guided glacier walk to see nature's wonders up close.
Start from the visitor centre.
NZD 90 (family package)., 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Accommodation

Head back to your accommodation to refresh after a long day.
Short drive from the glacier.
NZD 20., 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Monsoon Restaurant

Savour delicious Indian cuisine in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Short drive from accommodation.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy the scenic drive as you head toward adventure capital, Queenstown.
4.5-hour drive from Franz Josef.
Fuel cost ~NZD 60., 4.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Taste one of the world’s best burgers at the iconic Fergburger.
Central Queenstown.
NZD 40., 1 hour

3:00PM

Skyline Gondola

Hop on the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views and family-friendly activities.
Short walk from Fergburger.
NZD 120 (family pass)., 2 hours

5:00PM

Lake Wakatipu Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu.
Start at the jetty.
Free., 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Indulge in fine dining with a range of local produce and exquisite dishes.
10-min walk from Lake Wakatipu.
NZD 150., 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Milford Sound Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

An early start for a stunning journey through Fiordland National Park.
2-hour scenic drive from Queenstown.
Fuel cost ~NZD 40., 2 hours

10:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Explore the jaw-dropping fjords of Milford Sound on a family-friendly cruise.
Board at the main dock.
NZD 300 (family package)., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Enjoy lunch at the café, offering quick bites and beautiful views.
Short walk from the cruise dock.
NZD 50., 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Walking Trails

Take a leisurely walk on one of the trails to witness the natural beauty up close.
Start nearby the café.
Free., 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Queenstown

Drive back to Queenstown for the night.
2-hour drive.
Fuel cost ~NZD 40., 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

An intimate setting offering exquisite dishes reflecting the region's culinary talents.
Central Queenstown.
NZD 90., 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: History and Culture in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Travel to the largest city in the South Island, Christchurch.
5-hour drive from Queenstown.
Fuel cost ~NZD 80., 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Discover a range of street food options in this lively shared dining space.
Short drive to Little High.
NZD 50., 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Botanic Gardens

Explore the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a perfect spot for families to unwind.
Short drive from Little High.
Free., 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Enjoy hearty cuisine in a charming setting, perfect for families.
5-min drive from the gardens.
NZD 70., 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Final Day at Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive Back to Auckland

Set off for the drive back to Auckland as you conclude your journey.
4.5-hour drive from Christchurch.
Fuel cost ~NZD 60., 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Glasshouse

Dine at The Glasshouse, offering a fusion of contemporary and traditional dishes.
Short drive from the airport.
NZD 80., 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Last-minute Shopping

Explore Queen Street for some last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
Short drive to the city centre.
Free (depends on purchases)., 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Celebrate the end of your adventure with a sumptuous dinner overlooking the Sky Tower.
Short drive from the city centre.
NZD 120., 2 hours
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