12-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Through New Zealand

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Arrival and Breakfast at The Coffee Club

Start your New Zealand adventure with a delicious meal at The Coffee Club, offering everything from hearty breakfasts to light bites.
Walk to nearby Aotea Square for a relaxing area to take in the city vibes.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Auckland Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Auckland and beyond from the iconic Sky Tower.
Drive to the Sky Tower (~5 minutes).
NZD32, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Orbit 360°

Enjoy lunch at Orbit 360°, a rotating restaurant that offers panoramic views while you dine.
Located at the Sky Tower.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover New Zealand's rich history and native flora and fauna at this beautifully designed museum.
Drive to the museum (~10 minutes).
NZD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Evening Walk at the Auckland Domain

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Auckland's oldest park, a beautiful green space perfect for families.
Short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery, famous for its fresh local produce and stunning decor.
Drive back downtown (~10 minutes).
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 2: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Garrison Café

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Garrison Café, known for its barista coffee and warm pastries.
Short drive (~15 minutes) to the café.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Begin your scenic drive to Rotorua; enjoy stunning countryside views along the way.
2.5 hours scenic drive via SH1 and SH5.
Fuel NZD50, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cossie Club

Stop for a casual lunch at The Cossie Club with friendly service and homely meals.
Short drive from the entrance of Rotorua (~5 minutes).
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Indulge in a relaxing afternoon at Polynesian Spa, famous for its thermal pools and family-friendly facilities.
Short drive (~5 minutes).
NZD120 for family pass, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences at Te Puia, complete with geysers and kiwi birds.
Drive to Te Puia (~10 minutes).
NZD115 for family pass, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant

Complete your day with a dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant with stunning views of Rotorua.
Short drive back (~10 minutes).
NZD140, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure and Culture in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eat Streat

Kick-start your day at Eat Streat, a lively dining area featuring various breakfast choices.
Short drive (~5 minutes).
NZD50, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Marvel at the colourful geothermal features at Wai-O-Tapu, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Drive to Wai-O-Tapu (~25 minutes).
NZD85 for family pass, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Lava Bar

Relax for lunch at the Lava Bar, nestled within the thermal park atmosphere.
Informal café at Wai-O-Tapu.
NZD55, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Rotorua Lake

Spend your afternoon by the scenic Rotorua Lake, with paddle boat rentals available for family fun.
Short drive back to town (~15 minutes).
NZD30 for pedal boats, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Whakarewarewa Village

Experience authentic Maori culture at Whakarewarewa Village, featuring traditional performances.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
NZD75 for family pass, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sabroso

Savour a hearty family dinner at Sabroso, recognised for its quality local cuisine.
Drive back to town centre (~10 minutes).
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 4: Journey to Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dubliner

Start with a hearty breakfast at The Dubliner, known for its warm atmosphere and tasty menu.
Drive to the café (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Taupo

Travel to Taupo, renowned for its stunning lake and outdoor activities exceeding family-friendly fun.
1 hour drive via SH5.
Fuel NZD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at the spectacular Huka Falls, one of the most visited attractions in New Zealand.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Hydro Eatery

Enjoy lunch at the Hydro Eatery with fabulous lake views.
Short drive back (~10 minutes).
NZD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at Taupo Hot Springs

Unwind at the Taupo Hot Springs, an excellent family-friendly spot to soak in pleasing hot springs.
Short drive (~15 minutes).
NZD100 for family pass, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Lake Taupo

Spend your afternoon enjoying activities like swimming or paddle boarding in Lake Taupo.
Lakefront area – free parking available.
NZD50 for rentals, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Replete Café and Eatery

Finish the day with a delightful dinner at Replete Café and Eatery, popular for its gourmet offerings.
Drive back (~10 minutes).
NZD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Explore Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nikau Café

Start your day with a stylish breakfast at Nikau Café, known for its freshness and local ingredients.
Short drive to the café (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wellington

Journey to Wellington, New Zealand's capital filled with cultural experiences and beautiful landscapes.
2 hours drive via SH1.
Fuel NZD30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Discover New Zealand's national museum filled with interactive exhibits, perfect for families.
Short drive from the entrance (~10 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The General Café

Savour a delicious lunch at The General Café, featuring many catering to kids.
Located near Te Papa Museum.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ride Wellington Cable Car

Hop on the famous Wellington Cable Car for spectacular city views and a fun ride.
Walk to the cable car station (~15 minutes).
NZD10 per person, 1 hour

4:30PM

Walk through the Botanic Garden

After the ride, enjoy a stroll in the beautiful Botanic Garden, perfect for kids to explore.
Accessible from the cable car exit.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Lola Stays

Finish your day with dinner at Lola Stays, a family-friendly restaurant known for healthy options.
Short drive back down (~10 minutes).
NZD90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Ferry to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hangar

Fuel up for the day with a breakfast of fresh local produce at The Hangar.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Ferry Terminal

Make your way to the ferry terminal for a scenic journey to Picton.
Nearby the café (~10 minutes).
NZD35 per person, 1 hour

11:00AM

Ferry to Picton

Experience stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds on your ferry ride to Picton, it's a family adventure!
Ferry crossing (~3 hours).
Included above, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Mussel Pot

Savour a delightful seafood lunch at The Mussel Pot, known for its fresh ingredients.
Short walk (500m) from the ferry terminal.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Picton Waterfront

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Picton waterfront and its scenic walks.
Stroll along the waterfront (~1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Picton Village Bakehouse

Enjoy a casual dinner at this family-friendly eatery, featuring homemade dishes.
Short walk (~10 minutes).
NZD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Nature Adventure in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Free House

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Free House, famous for its creative brunch dishes.
Short drive from your accommodation (~10 minutes).
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nelson

Venture onward to Nelson, known for its coastline, beaches, and national parks.
1 hour scenic drive from Picton via SH6.
Fuel NZD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Explore the stunning coastline and forests of Abel Tasman National Park, with options for family-friendly walks.
Drive to the park entrance (~30 minutes).
NZD25 for car park., 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Marahau Village Café

Take a break for lunch at Marahau Village Café, offering tasty meals and refreshments.
Café in Marahau area (~10 minutes).
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Enjoy a family kayaking adventure along the coast of Abel Tasman National Park, exploring hidden beaches.
Rental available at the beach nearby (~5 minutes).
NZD150 for family rental., 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Table

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Table, a local favourite for fresh produce and delightful cuisine.
Return to Nelson (~30 minutes).
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 8: Scenic Journey to Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dietitian

Savour a nutritious breakfast at The Dietitian, a spot loved for its fresh ingredients and local flavours.
Short drive to the café (~5 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Travel towards Franz Josef, taking in the scenic route with lovely views of the mountains.
Drive along SH6 for about 4 hours.
Fuel NZD60, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Stop for lunch at The Landing, known for its local cuisine and warm atmosphere.
Located in Franz Josef (~10 minutes from town centre).
NZD75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Franz Josef Glacier

Enjoy a family-friendly guided walk to the stunning Franz Josef Glacier—a must-see!
Walk to the glacier from the town (~30 minutes).
NZD250 for family pass., 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Alice May

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Alice May, celebrating local produce and delightful flavours.
Short walk from your accommodation (~10 minutes).
NZD100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Discover Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The White House

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at The White House, a café offering local delights.
Short walk (700m) from your accommodation.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Queenstown

Take the picturesque drive to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand.
1.5 hours via SH6.
Fuel NZD30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Fergburger

An iconic eatery famous for massive gourmet burgers—this is a must-try!
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD60, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Spend some time at the Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful area perfect for kids to roam and play.
Short walk from Fergburger (~10 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

2:30PM

Ride the Skyline Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride for magnificent views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Short walk back (~10 minutes).
NZD80 for family pass., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Adventure Activities

Choose from various family-friendly activities like luging or mini-golf at the base of the skyline.
Location of the gondola.
NZD100 for activities., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

End your unforgettable day with a rustic dinner at The Cow Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious meals.
Short walk from the Gondola (~5 minutes).
NZD90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Explore Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Olive Tree

Start with a delightful breakfast at The Olive Tree, known for its farm-fresh ingredients.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Embark on the scenic drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Milford Sound.
2 hours via SH94.
Fuel NZD30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you can marvel at the luminescent creatures.
Short walk from Te Anau town centre (~15 minutes).
NZD100 for family tour., 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Café

Recharge with lunch at Redcliff Café, offering a wide range of meal options.
Near the waterfront (~5 minutes).
NZD70, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Te Anau Lakeside

Take a stroll around Te Anau's beautiful lakeside, ideal for family photos and leisure.
Walking along the lakeside (~10 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Cruise Lake Te Anau

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Te Anau—perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature.
Short walk to the dock from lakeside (~5 minutes).
NZD150 for family pass., 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Enjoy a vibrant dinner experience at The Fat Duck with local and seasonal ingredients.
Short journey back (~5 minutes).
NZD90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Cultural Highlights in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Oil

Enjoy breakfast at The Good Oil, known for its relaxed atmosphere and variety of options.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dunedin

En route to Dunedin, enjoy the picturesque southern coastline and wildlife spotting.
2 hours drive via SH1.
Fuel NZD40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Otago Museum

Explore the fascinating Otago Museum with engaging exhibits suitable for all ages.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Aloha Sushi

Enjoy lunch at Aloha Sushi, offering a fun and tasty selection of sushi and bento boxes.
Located near the museum (~10 minutes).
NZD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Larnach Castle

Visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens—great for kids!
Drive to Larnach Castle (~20 minutes).
NZD85 for family pass., 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Speight's Brewery Restaurant

Conclude your day with dinner at the Speight's Brewery Restaurant, famous for hearty fare in a historic setting.
Short drive (~20 minutes).
NZD90, 2 hours
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Day 12: Final Day in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Black Betty

Enjoy a breakfast of local produce at Black Betty, a favourite among locals.
Short drive to café (~10 minutes).
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Take a scenic drive back to Christchurch, reflecting on your amazing trip through New Zealand.
3 hours drive via SH1.
Fuel NZD50, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Reject Shop Café

Recharge with lunch at The Reject Shop Café, offering a good selection of meals.
Short drive from the city centre (~10 minutes).
NZD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Spend your afternoon at the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, a beautiful area to wander and relax.
Short drive (~10 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Explore the Canterbury Museum with fascinating exhibits capturing New Zealand’s history.
Located at the entry of the Botanical Gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Final Dinner at The Last Word

Conclude your adventure with a memorable dinner at The Last Word, known for its modern twist on classic dishes.
Short drive from the museum (~5 minutes).
NZD100, 2 hours
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