Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

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

Viewed by 114 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 2, 2025

9:00AM

Pick up Camper Van

Begin your adventure by picking up your camper van at the airport, ensuring everything is ready for your family road trip.
Drive directly from the airport to the camper van rental location, conveniently situated nearby.
NZD100, 1 hour

10:00AM

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Savor a delicious breakfast at C1 Espresso, known for its creative menu and fun ambiance that awaits everyone.
Located a short drive from the rental shop.
NZD70, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens, perfect for letting your child run and play.
The gardens are just a short drive from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Indulge in a family-friendly lunch at Little High Eatery, offering a variety of food options to satisfy everyone's taste buds.
Located conveniently in the city center.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Explore interactive exhibits suitable for the whole family at the Canterbury Museum, learning about local history.
The museum is a short drive from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

Settle into a family-friendly camper van park, providing amenities that your little one can enjoy.
Choose from various options near Christchurch.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Commodore Hotel

Wrap up your first day with a delightful family dinner at The Commodore, known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service.
Just a short drive from your camper park.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Kaikoura Adventure

Kaikoura, New Zealand on November 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Prepare a simple breakfast in your camper van to fuel up for the drive to Kaikoura.
Cook something easy like porridge or cereal.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Embark on your drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura, enjoying the scenic route along the coast.
The drive will take about 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kaikoura Ocean Education Centre

Explore the interactive exhibits at the ocean education center, perfect for young children.
Located in the town center upon arrival.
NZD15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Relish lunch at The Pier Hotel offering delightful options for both kids and adults.
Close to the education center.
NZD85, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Whale Watching Tour

Join a family-friendly whale watching tour, an unforgettable experience to see the majestic whales.
Board the tour boat located nearby.
NZD200, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle in at Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park, ideal for families and close to amenities.
Only a short drive from the whale watching tour.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Green Dolphin Restaurant

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

Day 3: Journey to Picton

Picton, New Zealand on November 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in the camper van

Fuel up with a homemade breakfast in your camper before heading onward.
Prepare something nutritious, like smoothies and toast.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Picton

Embark on your journey to Picton, a scenic harbor town with ferry connections.
This drive takes approximately 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 beautiful scenery.
Walk to the foreshore from your parking area.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Snout Café

Dine at Snout Café, serving excellent food options for families, including friendly service.
Located conveniently near the foreshore.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kayaking Adventure

Enjoy a family-friendly kayak tour in the sound, perfect for the little adventurer.
Book through numerous local operators at the foreshore.
NZD150, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle into a local camper van park, convenient for exploring further.
Picton Top 10 Holiday Park is a great option.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Seabreeze Café

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

Day 4: Exploring Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand on November 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Enjoy breakfast while enjoying the picturesque surroundings from your camper van.
Prepare a mix of cereals and fruits.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Short Drive to Nelson

Embark on a scenic drive to Nelson, known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene.
The drive takes only 45 minutes.
Free, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Wander through the Nelson Market, featuring local artisans selling crafts, food, and treats for everyone.
Centrally located, easy access.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Nelson Suburban Club

Enjoy a casual lunch with a family-friendly atmosphere offering various options.
Located not far from the market.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the South Pacific Wool Mill

Learn about wool production while enjoying a visit to see local llamas.
A short drive from the town center.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

Settle into a local camping park, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Nelson Top 10 Holiday Park is a good choice.
NZD55, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Jester House

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

Day 5: Adventure at Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand on November 6, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Begin your day with a simple homemade breakfast in your camper van.
Prepare porridge and fruits to get energized.
NZD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Travel to Abel Tasman National Park, known for its beautiful beaches.
The drive will take about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lunch at the Beach Café

Enjoy lunch at the Beach Café in the park, offering local dishes for hungry adventurers.
Conveniently located within the park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Kayak Tour or Beach Play

Choose between a guided kayak tour or enjoying beach playtime, allowing your child to explore in a safe environment.
Available at various rental locations along the beach.
NZD150, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend your afternoon chilling by the stunning beach after the kayaking or exploring.
Easily accessible from the kayaking area.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check into Nearby Camper Van Park

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

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Finish off with a meal from the famous food truck, The Fat Tui, known for their delicious burgers.
At the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park.
NZD70, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 6: Hokitika Coastal Adventure

Hokitika, New Zealand on November 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in your camper, appreciating the beautiful surroundings.
Prepare a variety like pancakes or oatmeal.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Travel along the stunning coastal route toward Hokitika, taking in breathtaking views along the way.
The journey will take roughly 3 hours.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Front Room

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

2:00PM

Visit Hokitika Beach

Explore the beautiful Hokitika Beach where your child can gather shells and play by the waves.
About a 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Hokitika Gorge Walk

Enjoy the stunning scenery on the Hokitika Gorge Walk, where the river is strikingly blue, providing opportunities for exploration.
The gorge is located about 30 minutes from town.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Camper Van Park

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

7:30PM

Dinner at the Hokitika Hotel

Finish the day with a family-friendly dinner at the Hokitika Hotel, serving fresh and delicious meals.
Located just a short distance from your camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hokitika

Day 7: Franz Josef Glacier Exploration

Franz Josef, New Zealand on November 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Prepare a wholesome breakfast in your camper van before your exciting glacier adventure.
Cook something warming like oatmeal with local fruit.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Take the scenic drive to Franz Josef, passing through lush rainforests and breathtaking landscapes.
The journey will take roughly 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Glacier View Café

Dine at the Glacier View Café, where you can warm up with delicious meals after your journey.
Located just near the glacier access point.
NZD85, 1 hour

1:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Embark on a walk along the short track to Franz Josef Glacier, allowing you and your toddler a grand chance to explore.
The start of the walking track is located near the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Spend time exploring the national park where your toddler can play safely while you enjoy the scenery.
Just a short drive from the glacier.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into Camper Van Park

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

7:30PM

Dinner at The White Pub

Enjoy hearty traditional meals at The White Pub, a popular gathering spot for families.
Approximately a 5-minute drive from your camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 8: Lakeside in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on November 9, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Relishes Cafe

Start your day at Relishes Cafe with their popular menu, enjoying a cozy atmosphere.
The drive from Franz Josef to Wanaka takes about 3 hours.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Wanaka Tree

Capture a family photo at the iconic Wanaka Tree, a great spot for stunning views.
The tree is a short drive from the café.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Exploring Wanaka's Puzzling World

Experience fun illusions and interactive exhibits at Puzzling World, entertaining for both kids and adults.
A quick 5-minute drive from the tree.
NZD75, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Francesca's Italian Kitchen

Gather for lunch where kids will enjoy the classic pizzas and pasta dishes.
Located in the center of Wanaka.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax by Lake Wanaka

Spend the afternoon relaxing by Lake Wanaka, enjoying ice cream while your child plays in the grassy areas.
Easily accessible from the lunch spot.
NZD20, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle into a family-friendly camper van park located near the lake.
Choose Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park or similar.
NZD60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House

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

Day 9: Exploring Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Fuel up with breakfast at Vudu Café, famous for delicious coffee and fresh baked goods.
Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown, approximately 1 hour.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the Skyline Gondola for fantastic views of Queenstown and enjoy a unique perspective of the area.
The gondola station is conveniently located in town.
NZD150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine at Stratosfare Restaurant, enjoying stunning views of the mountains while offering a delicious buffet for all ages.
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 an exhilarating experience for adults!
Just beside the restaurant.
NZD60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Queenstown Gardens

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

5:30PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle into a cozy camper park with family-friendly facilities.
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 10: Exploring Arrowtown

Arrowtown, New Zealand on November 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the camper van

Enjoy breakfast in your camper van before heading to Arrowtown.
Prepare a simple breakfast to kick off your day.
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

Join 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

Savor lunch at this picturesque café with seasonal dishes and a 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 engaging and educational activity for your child and family!
Head to the Arrowtown Gold Panning area.
NZD40, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Lakes District Museum

Explore fascinating exhibits that tell the area's history, entertaining 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, catering to families with plenty of options!
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD100, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Arrowtown

Day 11: Adventure in Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand on November 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy breakfast at The Platter, featuring fresh ingredients and local favorites.
Drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, approximately 2 hours.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Embark on a guided boat tour into the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, marveling at the captivating light displays created by glowing worms.
Located near the lakeside.
NZD120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Red Cliff Café

Stop for lunch at The Red Cliff Café, known for its delicious food and lovely views of the lake.
A short distance from the glowworm caves.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Nature Walk at Te Anau Lake

Engage in a nature walk around Te Anau Lake, giving your child a safe environment to explore while enjoying the views.
A beautiful area just steps away from the café.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Check into a camper van park

Settle into a cozy camper van park for the night, providing amenities for your little one.
Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park is a great option.
NZD50, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Blue Moon Restaurant

Finish the day with a family meal at Blue Moon, which serves a variety of child-friendly dishes.
Just a short drive from your camper park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 12: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand on November 13, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Prepare a simple breakfast in your camper van to get energized for the exciting day ahead.
Cook up some eggs and toast.
NZD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Scenic Drive to Milford Sound

Enjoy a picturesque drive along the Milford Road, capturing the stunning scenery along the way.
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 breathtaking views and opportunities to see wildlife.
Meet at the cruise departure point in Milford Sound.
NZD250, 2 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch in Milford Sound

Bring along a packed picnic to enjoy after your marvelous cruise, surrounded by majestic landscape.
Find a picnic spot near the dock.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Short Walk at Milford Sound

Take a scenic walking track near the cruise terminal, giving your child a chance to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
The walking track is located close to where you parked.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Drive Back to Te Anau

Return to Te Anau after a day of adventure to unwind.
The drive back will take around 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fiordland Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a great family meal at this well-rated hotel restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Te Anau.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 13: Invercargill Exploration

Invercargill, New Zealand on November 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Batch Café

Savor a delicious breakfast featuring local produce, including their famous avocado toast or breakfast burrito.
Drive from Te Anau to Invercargill, approximately 2 hours.
NZD70, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Queens Park

Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll through Queens Park, letting your child discover the playground while you admire the gardens.
The park is just a short drive from the café or 20-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Speight’s Ale House

Savor a casual lunch at Speight’s Ale House known for its great atmosphere and delicious pub food.
Located not far from Queens Park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Invercargill’s Southland Museum

Discover the unique history and culture of Southland at the Southland Museum, which features exhibits suitable for children.
A quick drive from the lunch spot.
NZD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into Camper Van Park

Settle into a comfy camper van park for the night, perfect for letting your child relax after a busy day.
Choose from various parks in Invercargill.
NZD45, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Grille

Wrap up your day with a family-friendly dinner at The Grille, where you can choose from a variety of dishes.
Just a 5-minute drive from your park.
NZD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Invercargill

Day 14: Return to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast in Camper Van

Begin with a nutritious breakfast while getting ready for your return journey.
Prepare something easy and delicious in your camper.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Christchurch

Hit the road back to Christchurch, finishing your amazing South Island adventure.
The drive will take about 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Riverside Market

Enjoy lunch at the Riverside Market, which features a wide array of local food stalls and fresh options for the family.
Centrally located, easy access.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a relaxing afternoon stroll through the beautiful gardens, letting your child run and play freely.
The gardens are close to the market.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Final Check-in at the Camper Van Park

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

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Celebrate the end of your wonderful adventure with a delightful dinner at Fiddlesticks, known for its homey ambiance.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About new zealand

Trip Packing List: New Zealand (Late February — Summer, warm days, cooler nights)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: New Zealand in Winter (June–August)
Packing List
New Zealand Weather in June: A Guide to the Kiwi Winter
Weather Guide
New Zealand Weather Guide: Year-Round Climate & Local Insights
Weather Guide
Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting New Zealand
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your new zealand Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go