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14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip in New Zealand

Viewed by 106 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Invercargill

Invercargill, New Zealand on November 2, 2025

9:00AM

Pick up Camper Van

Start your adventure by picking up your camper van at the airport, ready to hit the road as a family.
Drive directly from the airport to the camper van rental location, which is only a short distance away.
NZD100, 1 hour

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Batch Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local produce, such as their famous avocado toast or breakfast burrito, perfect for fueling your day.
Located in the same area, just a 10-minute drive from the rental shop.
NZD60, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Queens Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Queens Park, letting your child discover the playground and the beautiful gardens.
The park is a 5-minute drive from the café or a 20-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Speight’s Ale House

Savor a casual lunch at Speight’s Ale House, known for its great atmosphere and delicious pub food, including their famous burgers.
A 10-minute drive from the park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Invercargill’s Southland Museum

Discover the unique history and culture of Southland, including interactive exhibits that are family-friendly and engaging for everyone.
The museum is 5 minutes away from the lunch spot.
NZD30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Settle in at the Camper Van Park

Drive to your camper van park, set up your home for the night, and let your child explore the amenities.
Choose from several parks around Invercargill, such as the Invercargill Holiday Park.
NZD45, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Grille

Wrap up the day with a family-friendly dinner at The Grille, where you can choose from a variety of dishes, including special kids' options.
Just a 5-minute drive from the camper van park.
NZD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Invercargill

Day 2: Te Anau Adventure

Te Anau, New Zealand on November 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Platter

Fuel up at The Platter with a delicious breakfast platter that your child will enjoy sharing with you.
A relaxed 2-hour drive to Te Anau.
NZD50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Embark on a guided boat tour into the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you can marvel at the incredible light displays created by thousands of glowing worms.
Meet at the tour operator's dock, a short walk from The Platter.
NZD120, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Red Cliff Cafe

Stop for lunch at The Red Cliff Cafe where you can enjoy fresh sandwiches and coffee with gorgeous views of the lake.
Situated nearby the caves tour dock.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Nature Walk at Te Anau Lake

Engage in an easy nature walk around Te Anau Lake, perfect for a toddler and allowing for plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.
A beautiful park area just steps away from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Camper Van Park Check-in

Settle into a cozy camper van park for the night, giving your child time to relax after a fun day.
The Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park is a great choice.
NZD50, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the Olive Tree

Enjoy dinner at the Olive Tree, which offers choices that appeal to both children and adults alike.
Just a short drive from your camper site.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 3: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand on November 4, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Prepare a simple breakfast in your camper van so you’re energized for the day ahead.
Cook your favorite breakfast items, such as eggs and toast.
NZD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Scenic Drive to Milford Sound

Enjoy a breathtaking drive along the Milford Road, taking in beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.
It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Milford Sound from Te Anau.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Experience nature up close on a scenic cruise around Milford Sound, allowing for stunning vistas of cliffs, waterfalls, and hopefully dolphins.
Meet at the cruise departure point located at Milford Sound.
NZD250, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Milford Sound

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch while taking in the views post-cruise.
Find a nice picnic spot near the dock.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Short Walk at Milford Sound

Take a short walking track near the cruise terminal, giving your child a safe environment to explore.
The track starts close to where you parked.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive Back to Te Anau

Return to Te Anau, where you can unwind after the day’s adventures.
The drive back will take around 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fiordland Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a great family meal at this well-rated hotel restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere.
Located in downtown Te Anau.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 4: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy breakfast at Vudu Café, famous for delicious coffee and fresh baked goods, a great way to start your day!
Drive to Queenstown, approximately 2 hours.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the Skyline Gondola for spectacular views over Queenstown, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscape from above.
The gondola station is conveniently located in town.
NZD150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine at Stratosfare Restaurant to appreciate lunch with amazing views, offering a delicious buffet tailored for families.
Located at the top of the gondola ride.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Luge Ride at Skyline

Have fun together on the luge tracks which are safe for kids and provide thrilling rides for adults!
Right next to the restaurant.
NZD60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Queenstown Gardens

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful gardens, where your child can play in the expansive fields.
Just a short 5-minute drive from Skyline.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

Settle into a cozy camper park with facilities the little one will enjoy.
Choose Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cow

Finish the day with a casual dinner at The Cow, famous for its pizza and pasta dishes perfect for families.
Located in the heart of Queenstown.
NZD85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 5: Exploring Arrowtown

Arrowtown, New Zealand on November 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the camper van

Have breakfast in the comfort of your camper van before heading to Arrowtown.
Prepare a simple breakfast with local fruit and bread.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Arrowtown

Make the short drive to Arrowtown, a charming historical gold mining town.
It’s approximately 20 minutes from Queenstown.
Free, 20 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Arrowtown’s Historic Sites

Take a self-guided walking tour of Arrowtown’s quaint streets, visiting the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement.
The main street is easy to navigate on foot.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Postmaster’s Gallery Café

Enjoy lunch at this lovely café known for its seasonal dishes and relaxed environment.
Just a short walk from the main street.
NZD75, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Gold Panning Experience

Try your hand at gold panning, an exciting and educational activity for your child and you!
Head to the Arrowtown Gold Panning area.
NZD40, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Lakes District Museum

Explore interesting exhibits that tell the history of the area, engaging for both adults and children.
Located in the center of Arrowtown.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Queenstown

Head back to Queenstown in the camper van.
A quick 20-minute drive back.
Free, 20 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

Relish a world-famous burger at Fergburger, which has options catering to everyone in the family!
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD100, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Arrowtown

Day 6: Lakeside in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on November 7, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Relishes Cafe

Start your day at Relishes Cafe, enjoy eggs benedict and smoothies that are family-approved.
Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka takes about 1 hour.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Wanaka Tree

Take an unforgettable family photo at the iconic Wanaka Tree, a wonderful spot by the lake.
The walk is just a short drive from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Exploring Wanaka's Puzzling World

Experience mind-bending illusions at Puzzling World, a fun attraction for both kids and adults alike.
Drive from the tree to Puzzling World takes about 5 minutes.
NZD75, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Francesca's Italian Kitchen

Gather for lunch at Francesca's, where kids love the classic pizzas and pasta dishes.
Located in the centre of Wanaka.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax by Lake Wanaka

Spend the early afternoon relaxing by Lake Wanaka, grab some ice cream, and let your child play in the grassy areas.
Easily accessible from the lunch spot.
NZD20, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle into your camper van park located near the lake, giving you a chance to unwind.
Choice of several parks, such as Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House

Enjoy hearty Italian meals at this warm and welcoming restaurant, suitable for families.
Around 5 minutes from the camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 7: Franz Josef Glacier Exploration

Franz Josef, New Zealand on November 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Start with a simple breakfast in your camper van before heading out to your next adventure.
Prepare oatmeal and local fruits for a healthy start.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Scenic drive to Franz Josef takes you through lush rainforests and stunning landscapes.
The drive takes around 3 hours from Wanaka.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Glacier View Café

Dine at the Glacier View Café offering warm meals after your journey.
Located just near the glacier access point.
NZD85, 1 hour

1:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Walk the short track to Franz Josef Glacier, giving you and your toddler a chance to explore the unique landscape up close.
The start of the walking track is located near the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Spend time in the national park where your toddler can be tired out by exploring and playing around.
Just a short drive from the glacier.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle down in a nearby camper van park with family-friendly amenities for the little one.
You can choose from several options, such as Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the White Pub

Relax and enjoy hearty traditional meals at the White Pub, popular among families.
About a 5-minute drive from the camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 8: Hokitika Coastal Adventure

Hokitika, New Zealand on November 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the camper van

Enjoy breakfast while admiring the views from your camper van.
Simple breakfast options are easy to prepare in your camper.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Venture on a scenic drive along the coast to Hokitika, where you'll see breathtaking views along the way.
Approximately 1.5 hours drive from Franz Josef.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Hokitika Beach

Explore the beautiful Hokitika Beach, where you can gather shells and watch the waves with your little one.
Hokitika Beach is a short drive from the town center.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Front Room

Grab a delicious lunch at The Front Room, known for their seafood and kid-friendly menu.
Back in the town center, only a short drive.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hokitika Gorge Walk

Enjoy the stunning natural beauty on the Hokitika Gorge Walk, where the river is a brilliant blue, and your child can explore safely.
The gorge is located about 30 minutes from town.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

Find a family-friendly camper van park to relax at for the night.
Hokitika Holiday Park is a good option.
NZD55, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Hokitika Hotel

Enjoy a delicious family dinner at the Hokitika Hotel which has great options for kids.
Located just a short distance from your camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hokitika

Day 9: Greymouth Exploration

Greymouth, New Zealand on November 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Enjoy a simple breakfast while taking in the calm morning from your camper.
Prepare some toast and fruit.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Greymouth

Take the scenic coastal route toward Greymouth, enjoying stunning views of the coastline.
The drive is approximately 40 minutes.
Free, 40 minutes

10:30AM

Visit the Monteith's Brewery

Take a family-friendly brewery tour, learning about local beer while enjoying root beer for your little one.
The brewery is located in the town center.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Speight’s Ale House

Dine at The Speight’s Ale House which offers a diverse menu to keep everyone satisfied.
Just around the corner from the brewery.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Greymouth Seaside Market

Take your time strolling through the market and experiencing local treats and souvenirs.
The market is centrally located and quite accessible.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Relax at a camping park with facilities for families, perfect for your little one.
Greymouth Top 10 Holiday Park is a great choice.
NZD60, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Regent Theatre

Finish your day with a casual dinner at The Regent Theatre, which offers kid-friendly meal options.
A short drive from the camper van park.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 10: Adventure at Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand on November 11, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Start your day with a simple homemade breakfast in your camper van.
Prepare porridge and fruits.
NZD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Make your way to Abel Tasman National Park, famous for beautiful beaches and walking tracks.
The drive is approximately 4.5 hours.
Free, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Beach Cafe

Have lunch at the Beach Café in the park, ideal for hungry adventurers where you can sample local dishes.
Located in the park's entrance.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Kayak Tour or Beach Play

Join a guided kayak tour or enjoy the sandy beach, letting your child play by the shore.
Find kayak rental and tour providers along the beach.
NZD150, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Check into Nearby Camper Van Park

Settle into a park located close to the national park, perfect for evening relaxation.
Look for a nearby option like Riwaka Campground.
NZD45, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Finish your day with a burger from the famous food truck, The Fat Tui, that has excellent flavors.
At the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park.
NZD70, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 11: Exploring Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand on November 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the camper van

Enjoy breakfast while soaking in the scenic views from the camper van.
Prepare a mix of cereals and fruits.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Short Drive to Nelson

Drive to Nelson, a vibrant town known for its arts and crafts.
The drive takes only 45 minutes.
Free, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Wander through the Nelson Market, where local artisans sell crafts, food, and treats that your child will love.
Centrally located, easy access.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Nelson Suburban Club

Have a casual lunch with many options for kids and an inviting atmosphere.
Located not far from the market.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the South Pacific Wool Mill

Learn about local wool production and even see llamas before exploring the mill.
Head to the wool mill, located a short drive from the town center.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

Settle into a local camping park to unwind and recharge for the next day.
Nelson Top 10 Holiday Park is a good choice.
NZD55, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Jester House

Finish your day with dinner at The Jester House known for their quality family-friendly meals.
Located not far from the camper park.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 12: Journey to Picton

Picton, New Zealand on November 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in the camper van

Prepare a simple breakfast in your van before hitting the road.
Fruity cereal is perfect for the morning.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Picton

Travel to Picton, a scenic town known for its ferry connections to the North Island.
The drive takes around 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Picton Foreshore

Relax on the Picton Foreshore, where your child can play in the small parks while you admire the views.
A short drive from where you parked.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Snout Café

Dine at the Snout Café for great food options that cater to families, including delicious burgers.
Located near the foreshore.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kayaking Adventure

Join a family-friendly kayak tour in the sound, perfect for our little adventurer.
Available from numerous operators at the foreshore.
NZD150, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle at a local camper van park with easy access to amenities.
Picton Top 10 Holiday Park is a good choice.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Seabreeze Café

Finish with a delightful dinner at Seabreeze, offering a range of family-friendly options.
Located near the beach.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 13: Adventure in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand on November 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in the camper van

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the ocean while savoring local fruits.
Take advantage of the camper's kitchen.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Drive along the scenic coastal road towards Kaikoura, where the mountains meet the sea.
The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Join a family-friendly whale watching tour, a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these magnificent creatures up close.
Board the tour boat nearby.
NZD200, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

After your exciting morning, have lunch at The Pier Hotel which offers great meals for kids and adults.
Located close to the harbor.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Kaikoura Ocean Education Centre

Explore the interactive exhibits at the ocean education center, which are perfect for young children.
Located in the town center.
NZD15, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into the Camper Van Park

Settle into a nearby park suited for families with facilities for toddlers.
Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park is an excellent choice.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Green Dolphin Restaurant

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner or kid-friendly meal options at the Green Dolphin Restaurant.
Just a short walk from your park.
NZD85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 14: Final Day in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Begin with a homey breakfast in the camper van to ensure you’re ready for your final day.
Simple and nutritious meals.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Travel to Christchurch, completing your South Island adventure in the biggest city on the island.
The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Enjoy lunch at this unique spot featuring a variety of food stalls that cater to everyone’s tastes.
Located in the city center.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, perfect for letting your child run and play.
The gardens are located close to the eatery.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Check out the family-friendly exhibits that both adults and kids will enjoy at the museum.
Just a short walk from the Botanic Gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Find a campsite to settle in for your last night in New Zealand.
Choose from various options in the area.
NZD60, 1 hour

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Celebrate the end of your wonderful adventure with a delightful dinner at Fiddlesticks, known for its warm ambiance.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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