10-Day Family Friendly Nature Itinerary in New Zealand

Day 1: Auckland Adventure

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a delicious Kiwi breakfast of poached eggs and smoked salmon at this popular downtown eatery.
Located in central Auckland, easily accessible by foot or a short drive.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Explore over 1,000 animals in lush gardens; don't miss the wonderful Kiwi habitat!
A short 15-minute drive from the breakfast location.
NZD82 (family ticket), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Tropezienne

Enjoy casual French cuisine and fresh pastries at this charming bistro.
Located downtown, about 10 minutes from the zoo.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Sky Tower Experience

Take the family up the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Easy 10-minute drive or 15-minute walk from lunch.
NZD80 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360°

Enjoy dinner in the Sky Tower’s revolving restaurant for a unique dining experience.
The restaurant is directly accessible from the Sky Tower experience.
NZD200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Rotorua Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Fat Dog

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in this family-friendly café with a local vibe.
Drive to Rotorua (about 3 hours).
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Te Puia

Explore geothermal wonders and learn about Maori culture at this iconic attraction.
Just a 5-minute drive from breakfast.
NZD100 (family ticket), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

A vibrant dining hub with many options; enjoy artisanal burgers or fresh fish and chips!
5 minutes from Te Puia.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Redwoods Treewalk

Experience the stunning tree-top walk amidst ancient Redwoods, perfect for children.
A short 10-minute drive.
NZD80 (family ticket), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pig and Whistle

Have a family dinner at this historic pub with a great children's menu.
A quick 5-minute drive from the treewalk.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Taupo Thrill

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Café

Fuel up with excellent coffee and fresh pastries at this cozy spot.
Drive to Taupo (1 hour).
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Huka Falls

Witness the magnificent Huka Falls and take amazing family photos.
A 10-minute drive to the scenic spot.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Kayaking on Lake Taupo

Rent kayaks and paddle on beautiful Lake Taupo, a great outdoor activity for families.
Drive to the kayak rental center (10 minutes).
NZD120 (family rental), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Lake Bistro

Enjoy a lakeside meal with fresh local ingredients, perfect for refueling after kayaking.
Located near the kayaking center.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore this geothermal park filled with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools; kids will love it!
A 15-minute drive from lunch.
NZD60 (family ticket), 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Thai Delight Restaurant

Savor delicious Thai cuisine before a relaxed night in Taupo.
A quick 5-minute drive from the park.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your morning with a simple breakfast at a local café, embracing the park vibe.
Drive to the National Park (1 hour).
NZD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on a family-friendly segment of this iconic hike, experiencing stunning landscapes.
Entry point is close by.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch in National Park Village

Refuel at a quaint restaurant in the village, offering hearty meals and warm drinks.
Drive back to the village (20 minutes).
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Taranaki Falls

Take an easy walk to the beautiful Taranaki Falls, perfect for family photos and a relaxing atmosphere.
Drive to the trailhead (15 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Park Hotel Ruapehu

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at this cozy hotel restaurant with panoramic views.
A 15-minute drive back to the hotel.
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 5: Wellington Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fidel’s Café

Dine at this popular, vibrant café serving a delicious Kiwi breakfast.
Drive to Wellington (2 hours 30 minutes).
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum filled with interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
A short drive or a 10-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Lei Room

Indulge in amazing Asian cuisine, with several options for picky eaters.
Nearby, a short walk from the museum.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Cable Car Ride

Take a scenic cable car ride to the Botanical Gardens; enjoy stunning views over the city.
Easily accessible from lunch.
NZD25 (family pass), 1 hour

2:30PM

Wellington Botanical Gardens

Wander through the colorful gardens, perfect for exploration and family photos.
Walking distance from the cable car exit.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Duke Carvell’s

End the day with a delightful meal at this family-friendly establishment specializing in fish and chips.
A 10-minute drive from the gardens.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Picton Paradise

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mussel Pot

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a view of the marina at this charming café.
Drive to Picton (3 hours).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Queen Charlotte Track

Start your day hiking or biking a portion of this stunning coastal track, great for families.
Access the trailhead from the café.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Green Caravan

Savor healthy dishes and smoothies at this quirky food truck, perfect for kids.
Dry a short distance from the track.
NZD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Explore the history of the ship and maritime exhibits; the kids will love the interactive parts.
Located near the harbor, a short drive.
NZD40 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Picton Foreshore

Take a stroll along the waterfront and let the kids play at the beach park.
5 minutes drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Peekaboo

Dine at this vibrant restaurant known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse menu.
Drive back along the foreshore.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 7: Kaikoura Coastal Adventure

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Top Shop

Savor a classic Kiwi breakfast at this popular local café.
Drive to Kaikoura (2 hours).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching experience with your family.
Tour departs from the nearby harbor.
NZD450 (family ticket), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lobster Inn Motor Lodge

Indulge in fresh seafood and a casual dining experience suitable for the whole family.
Easy transport from the whale watching tour.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a family-friendly coastal walk with stunning sea views and local seals.
Access from restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Back to town for a cozy dinner featuring local seafood and friendly service.
5-minute drive from the walkway.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Christchurch Culture

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine

Enjoy a superb coffee and breakfast in the heart of Christchurch.
Drive to Christchurch (2 hours).
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning botanic gardens and enjoy a paddleboat ride on the Avon River.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
NZD40 (boat rental), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The George

Relish a refined lunch experience in an elegant setting while kids can enjoy dedicated meals.
Short drive or a 10-minute walk.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Canterbury Museum

Explore natural and cultural history exhibits; excellent for learning and fun.
Walkable distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Quake City

Interactive exhibits that tell the story of Christchurch’s rebuilding efforts post-earthquake.
A short drive from the museum.
NZD60 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mama Hooch

Conclude your day with warm hospitality and delicious pizzas that please the whole family.
Back to the center of town.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Queenstown Discovery

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Start your day in Queenstown with delicious coffee and freshly baked treats.
Drive to Queenstown (5 hours).
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the gondola for stunning views over Queenstown and enjoy the luge rides at the top.
Gondola base is only a short drive away.
NZD160 (family ticket for gondola and luges), 2 hours

11:30AM

Luge Rides

Enjoy fun-filled luge rides down the tracks with your family for an unforgettable experience.
Activity included with gondola ticket.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine with a view high above Queenstown, perfect for families.
In conjunction with the gondola visit.
NZD200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Take a scenic cruise on the stunning Lake Wakatipu surrounded by breathtaking mountain sceneries.
Return to the lakefront after lunch.
NZD140 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

Enjoy the legendary Fergburger for a quintessential Queenstown experience; great for the kids as well!
Located in town, short distance from the lake.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Milford Sound Splendor

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at your Accommodation

Have a quick breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for the day ahead.
Travel to Milford Sound (1 hour 30 minutes).
NZD40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Take a stunning scenic cruise through the breathtaking fjords, an unforgettable experience.
Cruise departs from the harbor.
NZD480 (family ticket), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Milford Sound Area

Wander around and take in the breathtaking nature; perfect photo opportunities abound.
Return to the harbor area after the cruise.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Enjoy a casual lunch while soaking in the dramatic scenery around you.
Located nearby the harbor.
NZD80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Scenic Drive Back to Queenstown

Enjoy the scenic drive back, with possible stops for photos and short walks.
Drive back to Queenstown (1 hour 30 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

End your adventure at this cozy, family-friendly restaurant with a diverse menu to please all palates.
10-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
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