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10-Day Family Adventure in New Zealand - Nature and Fun

Viewed by 135 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Candy Shop

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast featuring homemade pancakes and smoothies to energize you for the day ahead.
Located in the heart of Auckland, it's a short drive from major accommodations.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Head up to the iconic Sky Tower for stunning panoramic views of Auckland and beyond, a fun way to see the city from above.
Short drive or walk from the Candy Shop.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Giapo

Enjoy a uniquely Kiwi ice cream experience at Giapo, serving delicious and creative flavors that the whole family will love.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Auckland Zoo

Explore the Auckland Zoo, home to native and exotic animals, providing an engaging experience for children of all ages.
A 15-minute drive from Giapo.
NZD80, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360°

Savor dinner with a view at the revolving restaurant at the Sky Tower, offering a perfect end to your first day.
Return to the Sky Tower after the zoo.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Rotorua Culture & Adventure

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Scope Cafe

Indulge in a hearty breakfast of eggs benedict and locally sourced coffee to kickstart your day.
Drive about 3 hours from Auckland to Rotorua.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Village

Discover Māori culture at this living thermal village, where you can learn about geysers, hot pools, and traditional cooking.
A short drive from Scope Cafe.
NZD55, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Rotorua Night Market

Enjoy a family-friendly meal sampling various local foods and treating yourself to some sweet treats.
Head to the market area, which is easily walkable from the thermal village.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Embark on an elevated adventure through the magnificent Redwoods, walking on suspended bridges high above the ground.
A short car ride will bring you to the treewalk start point.
NZD80, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Head to this popular dining precinct for a range of family-friendly options, from pizza to Asian-fusion dishes.
Easily accessible from the Redwoods.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure Awaits in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Fuel up with a fresh smoothie bowl or a classic avocado toast at the local café.
Find a café near your accommodation for convenience.
NZD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike around Lake Tikitapu

Take a scenic family-friendly hike around the stunning blue lake, offering incredible photo opportunities.
Drive to the lake, located about 15 minutes from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pig & Whistle

Grab a tasty pub meal with options including hearty pies and burgers in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
Return to Rotorua city center for lunch.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Agroventures Adventure Park

Spend the afternoon at this adventure park, with activities like the swoop, bungy swings, and more—perfect for thrill-seeking families.
A 10-minute drive from the café.
NZD120, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Regatta Restaurant

Enjoy waterfront dining with great views while selecting from a menu filled with fresh, local ingredients.
Located close to the lake area.
NZD130, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Journey to Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brantry

Enjoy a delicious breakfast of pancakes or a sky-high omelette before heading to Taupo.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Rotorua to Taupo.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Huka Falls Visit

Marvel at the power and beauty of Huka Falls, where you can walk along the trails and capture incredible photos.
Just a 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Experience a scenic boat cruise, taking in stunning views and perhaps spotting some native wildlife.
Drive to the dock area and book your tickets onsite.
NZD90, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing Cafe

Enjoy lunch with a variety of options, from light bites to hearty mains, all while enjoying the lake view.
Return to the shore once done with the cruise.
NZD65, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore this geothermal park's unique landscape, complete with steaming craters and bubbling mud pools, an adventurous family outing.
Drive 10 minutes from the lunch spot.
NZD30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taupo's The Millenary

Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner featuring locally sourced dishes and tantalizing desserts.
A short drive back into town from Craters of the Moon.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Adventure in Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Start your day with a healthy breakfast option such as a smoothie bowl or granola.
Grab breakfast in Taupo before departing.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Travel approximately 1 hour to reach Tongariro National Park for a day full of stunning hikes.
Car ride from Taupo.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the famous day hike with breathtaking views, best suited for older kids and adults within the family, making memories together.
Park your car at the start point of the crossing.
Free, 6-8 hours

4:00PM

Return hike and wrap up

Finish the hike and rejuvenate with some local snacks and hydration to celebrate the challenge over the last few hours.
Head back to where you parked the car.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ruapehu Restaurant

Indulge in a hearty dinner with a warm atmosphere, perfect for tired hikers after a long day on the trails.
Located on the way back towards Taupo.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Day in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Mother's Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with offerings of pancakes, eggs, and more in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive about 3.5 hours from Tongariro to Wellington.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Weta Workshop Tour

Explore the behind-the-scenes magic of movie-making at Weta Workshop, where kids will be mesmerized by the creativity.
10-minute drive from Sweet Mother's Kitchen.
NZD90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Wander Cuba Street, grabbing lunch from vibrant food spots, perfect for fussy eaters with many options.
Short drive or walk from Weta Workshop.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Te Papa Museum

Visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, which offers interactive exhibits suited for the whole family.
Located close to Cuba Street.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bresolin

Cheer the day with dinner at this popular spot known for its delicious seasonal menu in a family-friendly setting.
Short drive from Te Papa.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Nature & Adventure in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at a local bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and a coffee from a local bakery before hitting the road.
Find a bakery in Wellington before leaving for Abel Tasman.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Abel Tasman National Park

Prepare for a scenic 5-hour drive to Abel Tasman, known for its stunning coastlines and stunning scenery.
Drive through scenic routes.
Free, 5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Marahau

Settle down for a lunch break at Marahau before diving into the park’s adventures.
Cafés available in Marahau area upon arrival.
NZD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kayaking Adventure

Enjoy a family-friendly kayak tour, exploring secluded bays and beaches within Abel Tasman.
Meet your tour provider at the waterfront.
NZD150, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Relax with fantastic burgers and fries at this food truck turned restaurant located near the park.
A short drive from the kayak point.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 8: Explore Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Styx

Savor healthy breakfast options, including fresh juices and wholesome meals to kickstart the day.
Drive about 1 hour from Abel Tasman to Nelson.
NZD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nelson Market

Explore the local market filled with artisan crafts, local produce, and family-friendly activities.
Located in the city center; easily walkable.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Codfather

Grab some fish and chips or fish tacos at a casual eatery popular with families.
Close to the market area.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Trail walk in Grampians

Take a short hike in the Grampians, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see some local wildlife.
Drive 15 minutes from The Codfather.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Ice Cream Treat at Nelson

Treat the children to some homemade ice cream to cool off after your day of walking and exploring.
Ice cream spots located around Nelson.
NZD20, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's & Co

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner featuring locally sourced dishes prepared with passion.
Close to the city center.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 9: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fergbaker

Satisfy your tastebuds with freshly baked pastries and coffee at the famed Fergbaker before your journey.
Drive about 3.5 hours from Nelson to Queenstown.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola

Ascend the breathtaking Skyline Gondola for unforgettable views, with the option of luge rides at the top for extra fun.
Short drive from town to the base of the gondola.
NZD85, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Skyline Restaurant

Feast on a delicious meal overlooking the stunning scenery before heading back down.
Dine at Skyline before descending.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Get your heart racing with a family-friendly jet boat ride on the stunning Shotover River.
Head to the jet boat company, a short drive from the restaurant.
NZD200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore the town

Spend the evening walking around Queenstown, discovering shops and enjoying the ambiance of this bustling town.
Easily walkable from the jet boating area.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Flame Bar and Grill

Savor a relaxing dinner offering delicious grilled meats and vegetarian options in a family-friendly pub atmosphere.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 10: Milford Sound Family Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at your Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your hotel to gear up for a day trip to Milford Sound.
Start your day early as you have a scenic drive ahead.
NZD25, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Travel approximately 1.5 hours through breathtaking fjords and landscapes to reach Milford Sound.
Follow the scenic route signs.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Embark on a scenic boat cruise through Milford Sound to admire the stunning waterfalls and wildlife.
Dock area for the cruise is easy to find upon arrival.
NZD120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at the Sound

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by magnificent landscapes; pack beforehand or purchase from nearby eateries.
Find a beautiful spot in nature.
NZD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Short Hike in the Area

Take a short hike to explore the stunning scenery around Milford Sound for a memorable family experience.
Follow marked trails leading from the visitor center.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Reverse the scenic journey, soaking in more views along the way.
Return to your vehicle and enjoy the ride back.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at your hotel or local restaurant

Conclude your exciting trip with a celebratory dinner, either at your hotel or a local eatery of your choice.
Whether you prefer dine-in or takeout, you have various options.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound
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