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Eco-Friendly Adventure: 14-Day Road Trip Through South Island, New Zealand

Viewed by 108 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on December 30, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Cathedral Square

Begin your adventure by visiting the iconic Cathedral Square, a hub of vibrant energy in Christchurch.
Walking distance from the city center.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Fuel your day with a delicious breakfast of locally sourced produce.
2 minute walk from Cathedral Square.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:00PM

Rent Eco-Friendly Vehicle

Pick up your rented eco-friendly vehicle for the adventure ahead.
Located downtown, 5-minute drive.
NZD50 (per day), 30 minutes

1:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Enjoy a variety of food choices, from fresh sushi to gourmet burgers.
10-minute drive.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Botanic Gardens Visit

Wander through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, peaceful and scenic.
20-minute drive or 45-minute bike ride.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Last Word

Savor a sustainable meal that highlights local ingredients.
15-minute drive back to city center.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Day Trip to Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand on December 31, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Akaroa

Enjoy the scenic drive from Christchurch to Akaroa.
1.5-hour drive.
NZD10 (fuel), 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Heathcote

Start the day with fresh local pastries and coffee.
Located in the heart of Akaroa.
NZD20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Cruise with Dolphin Watch

Take a nature cruise to atone with the playful Héctor's dolphins.
Cruise departs from the waterfront.
NZD100, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ma Maison

Refuel with a gourmet meal in this charming local eatery.
Short walk from the quay.
NZD35, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hike to the Akaroa Heads

Enjoy a leisurely hike leading to stunning views of the harbor.
15-minute drive then hike.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Factory

Delight in fresh seafood choices at this popular local spot.
Return to the main village.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Akaroa

Day 3: Marlborough Wine Region

Marlborough, New Zealand on January 1, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Marlborough

Set off on the picturesque drive, known for its vineyards.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
NZD20 (fuel), 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Warehouse Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before diving into wine tasting.
Close to main vineyards.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Wine Tasting Experience

Join a local vineyard for a tasting session of the region's finest wines.
Several vineyards nearby.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Wairau River Restaurant

Feast on seasonal produce paired with local wines.
15-minute drive.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Biking through Vineyards

Rent a bike and explore the stunning vineyard landscape.
Rental shops available in Marlborough.
NZD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Olde Millhouse

Close the day with a warm meal at this traditional eatery.
Back to main Marlborough area.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Marlborough

Day 4: Marlborough to Motueka

Motueka, New Zealand on January 2, 2024

9:00AM

Drive to Motueka

Take a leisurely drive along the coast to the beautiful Motueka.
Approx. 1.5-hour drive.
NZD15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at The Mot Cafe

Enjoy a vibrant breakfast with views of the coastline.
Close to the beach.
NZD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Spend the day exploring the stunning beauty of the National Park.
Drive to the park entrance.
NZD0 (entry fee in advance), 3 hours

4:00PM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Join a guided kayaking tour through the pristine waters of the Park.
Tour departs from the national park.
NZD75, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hanger

End the day with a meal featuring local ingredients.
Located in Motueka town.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Motueka

Day 5: Oamaru Adventure

Oamaru, New Zealand on January 3, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Oamaru

Travel south to Oamaru, home of the famous blue penguins.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
NZD20 (fuel), 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Grainstore

Delight in a scrumptious breakfast in a cozy setting.
Situated in Oamaru's Victorian precinct.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Moeraki Boulders

Explore the fascinating natural phenomenon of Moeraki Boulders on the beach.
20-minute drive from Oamaru.
NZD0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at The Porter

Enjoy a delicious lunch with beautiful harbor views.
Back to Oamaru.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Victorian Precinct

Wander through the historic buildings of Oamaru's Victorian Precinct.
Walking distance from The Porter.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Hofbrauhaus

End your day with hearty meals inspired by German cuisine.
In Oamaru's center.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Oamaru

Day 6: Cultural Exploration in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand on January 4, 2024

9:00AM

Drive to Dunedin

Make your way to Dunedin, famous for its rich Scottish heritage.
Approx. 1-hour drive.
NZD15 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Good Oil

Start your day with organic options and great coffee.
Located in the city center.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Larnach Castle

Visit New Zealand's only castle and enjoy its stunning gardens.
20-minute drive from the city.
NZD25, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Once Upon a Time

Indulge in a unique dining experience with local flair.
Return to the city center.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Otago Museum

Discover the region's history and culture in this engaging museum.
10-minute drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Press Club

Enjoy vibrant flavors using fresh local ingredients.
Near University of Otago.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 7: Scenic Drive to Caitlyn

Caitlyn, New Zealand on January 5, 2024

9:00AM

Drive to Caitlyn

Head to the untouched landscape of Caitlyn, known for its natural beauty.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
NZD20 (fuel), 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at A Local Cafe

Enjoy a rustic breakfast at this charming local spot.
Located in Caitlyn.
NZD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore the Caitlyn Coastline

Wander along the untouched beaches, viewing serene landscape.
Walking distances to beaches nearby.
NZD0, 3 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at The Coastal Cafe

Refuel with a late lunch with ocean views.
Short walk from the beach.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Viewing

End the day with a captivating sunset by the coast.
Coastline viewing points.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at A Local Pizza Place

Savor a delightful pizza to cap the day.
Located in Caitlyn.
NZD30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Caitlyn

Day 8: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand on January 6, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Head to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown.
Approx. 3-hour drive.
NZD30 (fuel), 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Indulge in a delicious breakfast with fresh local ingredients.
Located in Queenstown main street.
NZD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Hike Roy's Peak

Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views.
Start the hike just outside of Queenstown.
NZD0, 4 hours

5:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Replenish with one of the best burgers in New Zealand.
Near Queenstown town center.
NZD30, 1 hour

6:30PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning gardens by the lake.
Walking distance from town.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Wrap up your day with a fine dining experience featuring local dishes.
Located on the waterfront.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Fiordland Wonders

Fiordland Region, New Zealand on January 7, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Drive to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
NZD20 (fuel), 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at The Red Cliff

Start your day with hearty meals overlooking Lake Te Anau.
Close to the main town of Te Anau.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Fiordland National Park

Spend hours hiking and taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
Multiple trails available.
NZD0, 3 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Lunch at one of the town's popular eateries with a great menu.
In Te Anau.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on a Fiordland Cruise

Experience dinner on one of the scenic cruises through Fiordland's stunning scenery.
Cruise departs from Te Anau.
NZD120, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Fiordland Region

Day 10: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand on January 8, 2024

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on an early drive through breathtaking scenery to Milford Sound.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
NZD20 (fuel), 2 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Milford Sound Cafe

Enjoy breakfast in an extraordinary location surrounded by nature.
Located on the Fjord.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Scenic Cruise on Milford Sound

Take a breathtaking cruise to marvel at famous waterfalls and wildlife.
Cruise departs from dock.
NZD100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the grandeur of Milford Sound.
Included with cruise.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Underwater Observatory

Visit the underwater observatory to explore the marine life of the fjord.
Short walk from the boat.
NZD50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Milford Sound Cafe

Wind down your exciting day with a comforting dinner.
Back at the cafe.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 11: Doubtful Sound Cruise

Doubtful Sound, New Zealand on January 9, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Manapouri

Head to Manapouri for your Doubtful Sound adventure.
Approx. 1-hour drive.
NZD15 (fuel), 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Boat Shed

Enjoy breakfast in this charming lakeside cafe.
Close to Manapouri.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Doubtful Sound Cruise

Set sail on a 3-day cruise, marveling at the untouched fjords.
Cruise departs from dock.
NZD500 (all-inclusive), 3 days
Find Hotels in Doubtful Sound

Day 12: Exploring Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound, New Zealand on January 10, 2024

Continuous

Doubtful Sound Activities

Enjoy various activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking while on board.
Onboard with the cruise.
Included with the cruise., 3 days
Find Hotels in Doubtful Sound

Day 13: Final Day in Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound, New Zealand on January 11, 2024

Continuous

Doubtful Sound Activities

Engage in more exploration and memorable experiences in the stunning sound.
Onboard with the cruise.
Included with the cruise., 3 days
Find Hotels in Doubtful Sound

Day 14: Return to Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on January 12, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Journey to Wanaka, a different kind of paradise in New Zealand.
Approx. 3-hour drive.
NZD30 (fuel), 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Kai Whaka Pai

Savor a delicious breakfast in a local favorite café.
In central Wanaka.
NZD20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Hike to Clay Cliffs

Explore the unique and awe-inspiring clay cliffs.
20-minute drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Cinnamon Tree

Enjoy a wholesome meal with local produce.
Back to Wanaka.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Kayaking on Lake Wanaka

Spend a relaxing afternoon kayaking in the stunning lake.
Boat rental available at the lake.
NZD40, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Wrap up your adventure with a sensational meal featuring local ingredients.
Located in Wanaka.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka
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