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Ultimate 13-Day New Zealand Adventure: From the North to the South Island

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Visit the Sky Tower

Start your day with breathtaking views over Auckland from the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere.
Take a short walk from the city center.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Auckland Domain

Relax at Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, and explore the beautiful Auckland War Memorial Museum.
15-minute walk from Sky Tower.
NZD 25 (for museum entry), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Giapo

Enjoy a delicious and innovative gourmet ice cream experience at Giapo, a local favorite.
A 10-minute walk from Auckland Domain.
NZD 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Britomart

Take a scenic stroll around Britomart, known for its shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.
20-minute walk from Giapo, or a quick bus.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

Enjoy a unique dining experience with a panoramic view of the city at Orbit revolving restaurant.
Return to the Sky Tower area, a short walk.
NZD 75, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Catch a Ferry to Waiheke Island

Start your day with a pleasant ferry ride to Waiheke Island, renowned for its wineries and beautiful beaches.
Ferries depart from downtown Auckland.
NZD 42 round trip, 1 hour travel + 4 hours exploring

2:00PM

Wine Tasting at Mudbrick Vineyard

Indulge in wine tasting and savor a gourmet lunch overlooking the vineyard vistas at Mudbrick Vineyard.
Pre-arranged tour or local transport on the island.
NZD 65, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Auckland

Head back to the city for a leisurely evening.
Catch the ferry back.
Included in earlier ferry cost, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tokyo Bay

Experience fine Japanese dining at Tokyo Bay, one of the best sushi spots in Auckland.
A short drive or taxi from the ferry terminal.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Start your morning with a scenic 3-hour drive to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity.
Take State Highway 1 south.
NZD 50 (fuel), 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Te Puia to see geysers in action and learn about Maori culture.
Short drive from central Rotorua.
NZD 55, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Tamaki Maori Village

Enjoy a traditional Hangi lunch as part of your cultural experience.
Pre-arranged tour will transport you.
NZD 120 (tour package), 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax in the Polynesian Spa

Unwind and rejuvenate in the warm thermal pools of the Polynesian Spa.
A 10-minute drive from Tamaki Village.
NZD 65, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy contemporary New Zealand cuisine in this cozy bistro setting.
Short 5-minute drive back to the city center.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Charming Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour drive to Taupo, known for its stunning lake and adrenaline activities.
Follow State Highway 1 south.
NZD 30 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Taupo Scenic Walk

Begin with an invigorating walk along the picturesque shores of Lake Taupo.
Start from the Taupo lakefront, easily accessible.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Huka Falls Visit

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Huka Falls, where the Waikato River spills over the cliff edge.
Short 10-minute drive from lakefront.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Brantry

Savor a delightful meal at The Brantry, known for its gourmet offerings and local produce.
A 5-minute drive from Huka Falls.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Optional Skydiving Experience

For the adventurous, consider a thrilling skydive over Lake Taupo for spectacular views!
Pre-arranged shuttle service from lunch spot.
NZD 400, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lakehouse Café

End your day with dinner overlooking Lake Taupo at the Lakehouse Café, famed for its burgers.
Short drive from the skydiving drop-off.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Discovering Napier

Napier, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Napier

Begin the scenic drive to Napier, a city known for its Art Deco architecture.
Continue on State Highway 5.
NZD 40 (fuel), 2 hours

10:30AM

Art Deco Walking Tour

Join a guided walking tour to discover the stunning Art Deco buildings of the city.
Meeting point is Downtown Napier.
NZD 25, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Ginger Monkey

Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Ginger Monkey, serving local and seasonal dishes.
Located near the walking tour area.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand

Explore marine life and conservation exhibits at the National Aquarium.
A short walk from The Ginger Monkey.
NZD 25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wine Tasting at Mission Estate Winery

Savor excellent wines at New Zealand's oldest winery with beautiful vineyard views.
A 10-minute drive from the aquarium.
NZD 30 (tasting fee), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bistronomy

Indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience at Bistronomy, known for fresh ingredients.
Short drive from Mission Estate Winery.
NZD 75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Napier

Day 6: Discovering Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Drive to Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital, known for its arts and culture.
Take State Highway 2 south.
NZD 50 (fuel), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fidel's Café

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Fidel's Café, popular for its brunch offerings.
Located in Cuba Street.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Discover New Zealand's national museum and learn about its culture and natural history.
A short walk from Fidel's.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Enjoy a scenic ride up to the Botanical Gardens for stunning views of the city.
Cable car station is close to Te Papa.
NZD 8, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Dine at the award-winning Ortega Fish Shack, renowned for its fresh seafood.
A short taxi ride from the cable car.
NZD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Enchanting Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Fly to Christchurch

Catch an early flight to Christchurch, city of gardens and adventure.
Flight from Wellington airport.
NZD 100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Botanic Gardens Visit

Explore the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city.
Short walk from the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Take a Punt on the Avon River

Experience a traditional punting experience on the scenic Avon River.
Easily accessible from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD 32, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Monday Room

Savor contemporary cuisine at The Monday Room, known for its innovative dishes.
A 10-minute walk from the punting.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Cardboard Cathedral

Visit the unique Cardboard Cathedral, a symbol of resilience after the earthquakes.
Short drive or taxi from lunch.
Free (donations encouraged), 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy a casual yet refined dining experience at Fiddlesticks, known for its seasonal dishes.
Short drive from the cathedral.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 8: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Fly to Queenstown

Take a quick domestic flight to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown.
Flight from Christchurch airport.
NZD 100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Go Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge

Feel the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping at the historic Kawarau Bridge.
Ask your hotel for shuttle service or take a taxi.
NZD 195, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Extraordinary Eats Card

Enjoy lunch at the best local eateries using the Extraordinary Eats Card for discounts.
Short drive back to Queenstown.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

Ascend Bob's Peak for stunning views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Gondola station is nearby.
NZD 50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Jet Boat Ride on Shotover River

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through the stunning canyons.
Transportation provided as part of the jet boat booking.
NZD 130, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Conclude your adventurous day with fine dining at The Bunker, offering New Zealand dishes.
Short drive or walk from the jet boat docks.
NZD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Milford Sound Magic

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Depart early for a scenic drive to Milford Sound, known for its stunning fjords.
Take the scenic Milford Road.
NZD 40 (fuel), 2 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking boat cruise through the fjord, marveling at waterfalls and cliffs.
Cruise departs from Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Grab a bite at the Milford Sound Café before heading to your next adventure.
Located at the terminal.
NZD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Milford Sound Walks

Take a scenic walk around the area to soak in the stunning lagoons and mountains.
Starts from the boat terminal area.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Return to Queenstown enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.
Retrace the route back to Queenstown.
Included in earlier fuel cost, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rātā

Dine at the highly praised Rātā, serving local ingredients with a creative twist.
Located in Queenstown town center.
NZD 110, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 10: Te Anau Tranquility

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

A short 2-hour drive takes you to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
State Highway 94 leads directly there.
NZD 30 (fuel), 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore famous glowworm caves with guided tours through stunning limestone formations.
Located near the town center.
NZD 85, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

A local gem, The Fat Duck is known for its gourmet offerings made with local ingredients.
Short drive from the caves.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Te Anau Lakefront Walk

Take a peaceful walk along the lakefront enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Easily accessible from the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with a beautiful view of Lake Te Anau at Redcliff Café.
Short walk from the lakefront.
NZD 55, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 11: Franz Josef Wonders

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Embark on a 4-hour drive to the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier.
Follow State Highway 6 north.
NZD 50 (fuel), 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Refuel with a delicious lunch at The Landing Café, renowned for their fresh, local produce.
A short drive from the town center.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight

Experience a scenic helicopter flight over the Franz Josef Glacier for stunning aerial views.
Operators are near the town center.
NZD 350, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Take a leisurely walk through the valley towards the glacier's terminal face, absorbing the breathtaking views.
Walking trail begins nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Alice May

Conclude your day with a hearty meal at Alice May, known for hearty pub food.
Short drive from the glacier area.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 12: Abel Tasman Escape

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Abel Tasman

Experience a scenic 4-hour drive to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.
Travel along State Highway 6, then State Highway 60.
NZD 60 (fuel), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Mediteranean

Enjoy a light lunch at Café Mediterranean, perfect for refueling after your journey.
Located in nearby Motueka.
NZD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Embark on a guided kayak adventure to explore the breathtaking coastal scenery of Abel Tasman.
Kayak tours depart from the main entrance.
NZD 90, 3 hours

4:30PM

Hiking the Coastal Track

Take a segment of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, famous for its views of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Starts near the kayak tour location.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Savor gourmet burgers at The Fat Tui, known for its delicious offerings.
Short drive from the national park.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 13: Departure from Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel to Nelson, where you can relax and explore before your departure.
A 45-minute drive from Abel Tasman.
NZD 20 (fuel), 45 minutes

9:00AM

Visit the World of WearableArt Museum

Discover the unique and creative exhibits at the World of WearableArt Museum.
A short drive from the city center.
NZD 20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at Nelson Airport

Prepare for your departure as you check-in and settle for your flight home.
Nelson Airport is nearby.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Styx

Before your flight, enjoy a final lunch at The Styx, known for its local produce.
Close to the airport.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Depart from Nelson Airport

Bid farewell to New Zealand as your adventure comes to an end.
Head to your departure gate at the airport.
Free, N/A
Find Hotels in Nelson
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