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

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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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