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

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 3, 2025

9:00AM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Begin your adventure with a stroll through the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where the colorful flower beds and lush greenery will captivate both adults and your little one.
Drive from your accommodation to the Botanic Gardens; parking available onsite.
NZD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Ministry of Food

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at The Ministry of Food, featuring a selection of delicious wraps, salads, and organic juices.
Short drive (10 minutes) from Botanic Gardens to restaurant.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Take a Gondola Ride

Experience breathtaking views of the city from the Christchurch Gondola, offering a fantastic vantage point and fun for all ages.
Drive (15 minutes) to the Gondola base.
NZD88, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Drive to Hokitika

Hokitika, New Zealand on November 4, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Set off early for a scenic drive to Hokitika along State Highway 73, enjoying the picturesque landscapes.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours; enjoy breaks at rest stops.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fat Pippis

Grab lunch at Fat Pippis, known for its delicious fish and chips that are perfect for both adults and kids.
Walk from the camper van to the restaurant; just a 5-minute walk.
NZD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Hokitika Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing or playing on Hokitika Beach, where your toddler can enjoy the sand and surf.
Short drive (5 minutes) from lunch to beach.
NZD0, 2 hours
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Day 3: Glaciers Adventure

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand on November 5, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Enjoy a scenic morning drive to Franz Josef Glacier, where the majestic landscapes will keep everyone excited.
Travel approximately 1.5 hours from Hokitika.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take the family-friendly Glacier Valley Walk which offers stunning views and is suitable for strollers.
Access from the Glacier Base to the walking track.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Visit The Landing for lunch and enjoy some local fare while overlooking the beautiful scenery of the area.
Drive 10 minutes from the Glacier Base to the restaurant.
NZD70, 1 hour
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Day 4: Lake Wanaka Fun

Wanaka, New Zealand on November 6, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Make your way to scenic Wanaka, a charming town nestled by a stunning lake, and enjoy the scenic road filled with views.
Drive approximately 3 hours with stops along the way.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cow

Savor delicious pizza at The Cow, a cozy spot in Wanaka, perfect for families.
Directly walk from the camper van to the restaurant.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Puzzling World

Engage the family at Puzzling World, known for its quirky puzzles and illusions, which provides fun for both kids and adults.
Short drive of 5 minutes.
NZD56, 2 hours
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Day 5: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 7, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Take a short drive to Queenstown, a vibrant hub for adventure and relaxation surrounded by mountains.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Wanaka.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Luge Ride

Hop on the Skyline Gondola and enjoy the thrilling luge rides, which are a hit with both kids and adults.
The gondola base is a short drive from the town center.
NZD100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Savor the world-famous Fergburger for a hearty treat after your morning of fun.
Walk directly from the gondola to the restaurant.
NZD70, 1 hour
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Day 6: Scenic Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand on November 8, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Travel to the beautiful town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Drive approximately 2 hours from Queenstown.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience the magical journey to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where fascinating natural lights await.
Short drive or walk to the cave boat departure point.
NZD160 for family, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy a cozy meal at Redcliff Cafe, with beautiful lake views, perfect for a family lunch.
Short drive from the caves back to the town center.
NZD60, 1 hour
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Day 7: Milford Sound Experience

Milford Sound, New Zealand on November 9, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set out early for the breathtaking journey to Milford Sound through stunning Fiordland scenery.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise through Milford Sound, marveling at waterfalls and towering cliffs—all from the comfort of the boat.
Board the cruise from the Milford Sound Wharf.
NZD240 for family, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Boat House Cafe

Refuel at The Boat House Cafe, conveniently located near the cruise terminal, offering great views.
Walk from the wharf to the cafe.
NZD80, 1 hour
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Day 8: Cromwell's Golden Past

Cromwell, New Zealand on November 10, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Cromwell

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Cromwell, known for its gold mining history.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours from Te Anau to Cromwell.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Goldfields Kitchen

Dine at the Goldfields Kitchen, enjoying fresh, locally sourced produce in a family-friendly setting.
A short drive from the main highway.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Cromwell Heritage Precinct

Take a leisurely walk through the Cromwell Heritage Precinct to experience its charming gold rush-era buildings.
Just next to the cafe, walkable distance.
NZD0, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Dunedin's Scottish Charm

Dunedin, New Zealand on November 11, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Dunedin

Head to Dunedin, a city known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Cromwell.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Larnach Castle

Explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, where you can wander through beautiful gardens and learn a bit of history.
Drive 25 minutes to the castle from the center of Dunedin.
NZD54, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Perc Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at The Perc Cafe, which has a nice menu suitable for all ages.
Return back to Dunedin city center, about a 25-minute drive.
NZD60, 1 hour
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Day 10: Oamaru's Steampunk Wonders

Oamaru, New Zealand on November 12, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Oamaru

Take a morning drive to Oamaru, famous for its Victorian architecture and steampunk culture.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Dunedin.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Watch the adorable blue penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, a highlight for children and adults alike.
A short drive from the town center.
NZD75 for family, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Loan and Merc

Indulge in a delightful lunch at The Loan and Merc, known for its local fare and child-friendly options.
Short drive to the restaurant.
NZD50, 1 hour
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Day 11: Akaroa & the French Influence

Akaroa, New Zealand on November 13, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Akaroa

Head to Akaroa, a charming coastal town with French influence, known for its picturesque harbor.
Drive approximately 3 hours from Oamaru.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Harbar

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the Harbar, offering beautiful views and a range of fresh seafood.
Located close to the harbor; a short walk.
NZD70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Discover Akaroa Harbour Cruise

Take in the stunning coastline and wildlife on an Akaroa Harbour cruise, an experience the entire family will cherish.
Board from the harbor area.
NZD150 for family, 2 hours
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Day 12: Kaikoura's Marine Life

Kaikoura, New Zealand on November 14, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Journey to the iconic coastal town of Kaikoura, famous for its marine life and stunning scenery.
Drive approximately 2 hours from Akaroa.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Kaikoura Whale Watching

Embark on a whale watching tour, where your family has the chance to see majestic sperm whales and other marine wildlife.
Board at the Kaikoura Wharf.
NZD350 for family, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Craypot

Delight in fresh seafood at The Craypot, a family-friendly eatery showcasing the region's culinary delights.
Short walk from the wharf to the restaurant.
NZD80, 1 hour
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Day 13: Nourishing Relaxation

Nelson, New Zealand on November 15, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Head to Nelson, a lovely town with a laid-back vibe and beautiful surroundings.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours from Kaikoura.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Styx

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Styx, famous for their friendly service and local dishes.
Close to the center of Nelson; short walk.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Tahunanui Beach

Spend the afternoon at Tahunanui Beach, where the toddler can play in the sand while the adults unwind.
Drive a short distance from lunch to the beach.
NZD0, 2 hours
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Day 14: Return to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 16, 2025

9:00AM

Drive back to Christchurch

Complete your journey back to Christchurch, filled with beautiful memories from your trip.
Drive approximately 4 hours from Nelson.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dux Dine

Savor a final lunch at Dux Dine, known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere.
Located in Christchurch, easy access after arriving.
NZD70, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Christchurch City Center

Take a leisurely stroll around Christchurch City Center, soaking in the sights and shopping for souvenirs or gifts.
Central location; walkable from the restaurant.
NZD0, 2 hours
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