Budget Family Adventure in South Island, New Zealand

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

10:00AM

Arrive in Christchurch

Land in Christchurch and collect your rental car for the trip ensuring an easy start to your adventure!
Transfer to car rental area at the airport.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Christchurch Farmers' Market

Discover local culinary delights at the Farmers' Market for a fresh and affordable lunch.
Drive approximately 15 minutes from the airport.
NZD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the stunning Botanic Gardens, a family-friendly experience.
5-minute drive from the farmers' market.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your budget-friendly hotel in Christchurch for the night.
Short 10-minute drive back to your hotel.
NZD120, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The George

Savour a delicious dinner at The George, known for good value family meals.
20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Christchurch Sightseeing

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little High Eatery

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Little High Eatery featuring various local options.
10-minute drive from hotel.
NZD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Christchurch Museum

Discover New Zealand's culture and history through interactive displays at the museum.
5-minute drive from the eatery.
NZD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Search and Rescue

Enjoy a fun lunch experience with healthy options at a local favourite cafe.
10-minute drive from museum.
NZD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Punting on the Avon River

Experience traditional punting along the scenic Avon River, a fun activity for the whole family.
15-minute walk from lunch spot.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Cardboard Cathedral

Marvel at the innovative design of the Cardboard Cathedral, a unique architectural sight.
15-minute walk from punting location.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at McKenzie & Willis

Relax over a casual dinner at McKenzie & Willis, with a diverse menu for all ages.
5-minute drive from the cathedral.
NZD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start the day with a simple breakfast before departing for Lake Tekapo.
At hotel.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Enjoy your scenic drive to Lake Tekapo, taking in the breathtaking views along the way.
Drive for 3 hours on State Highway 8.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Astro Cafe

Stop for lunch with stunning lake views at The Astro Cafe, perfect for the family.
Find location on arrival.
NZD18, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Explore the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd with panoramic views of Lake Tekapo.
Short drive from lunch location.
NZD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tekapo Springs

Enjoy some fun family time at Tekapo Springs with hot pools and a playground.
5-minute drive from church.
NZD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Godley Hotel

End your day with a delicious family dinner at The Godley Hotel restaurant.
Short drive from Tekapo Springs.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mount Cook

Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Aoraki as you embrace stunning landscapes.
At hotel.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook

Journey towards Aoraki / Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, a drive of about 1 hour.
Follow State Highway 80.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visitor Centre

Stop by the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre to plan your activities for the day.
On arriving at the park.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hermitage Hotel

Enjoy lunch with breathtaking views of Mount Cook from The Hermitage Hotel restaurant.
Located within Aoraki.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Short hike to Hooker Valley Track

Embark on a family-friendly hike along the Hooker Valley Track for stunning glacier views.
Start from the Visitor Centre.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your family-friendly lodge in Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Short drive from the hiking trail.
NZD130, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hermitage Hotel

Enjoy a special dinner together at The Hermitage with a focus on local cuisine.
On-site, enjoy the hotel setting.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Aoraki / Mount Cook to Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at the hotel.
At hotel.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Wanaka

Leave for Wanaka with a picturesque 1.5-hour drive through the mountains.
Follow SH80 & SH6.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Puzzling World

Explore the quirky world of Puzzling World, great fun for the kids with mazes and illusions.
13-minute drive from centre of Wanaka.
NZD20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Enjoy a rustic-style lunch at The Cow Restaurant with great pizza offerings.
Head back to Wanaka centre.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Wanaka Lakefront

Unwind by the serene lakefront, perfect for a family picnic and enjoy the views.
Short walk from the restaurant.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Check into your family-friendly and budget-friendly accommodation for the night.
Short drive from the lakefront.
NZD120, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

Savour a delightful dinner at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen, known for fresh ingredients.
Located in Wanaka.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Exploring Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast before heading to Queenstown.
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Set off for a quick 1-hour drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of NZ!
Follow SH6.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Skyline Gondola Experience

Ride the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views and an array of activities at the top.
Near Queenstown's CBD.
NZD50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Relax with a buffet lunch with stunning views from the gondola top.
At the Gondola summit.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Luge Ride

Enjoy fun luge rides downhill for some exhilarating family fun!
At the Gondola station.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Queenstown Gardens

Spend some time relaxing at the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, perfect for the kids to explore.
15-minute walk from the gondola.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

End the day with iconic burgers at Fergburger, a must-try in Queenstown.
15-minute walk from the gardens.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Queenstown Adventures

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before diving into more adventure!
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kiwi Birdlife Park

Engage with New Zealand's unique wildlife, including the iconic kiwi bird at the park.
Short drive to park entrance.
NZD25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Skydiving or Scenic Flight

For adventurous families, opt for a tandem skydive or a scenic flight over Queenstown.
10-minute drive from park.
NZD250 (Skydiving) / NZD150 (Scenic Flight), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Pedro's House of Lamb

Delight in tasty lamb dishes at this popular local eatery post-adventure.
10-minute drive back into Queenstown.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Arrowtown

Venture out to Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town, with scenic views and charming shops.
20-minute drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Postmaster's House

Enjoy a lovely dinner at The Postmaster's House in Arrowtown, serving delightful dishes.
In Arrowtown.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Te Anau Region

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before leaving Queenstown for Te Anau.
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Depart Queenstown and drive to Te Anau, gateway to Milford Sound, in 2 hours.
Follow SH94.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Embark on a guided tour through the enchanting glowworm caves, a magical experience!
Short walk from Te Anau centre.
NZD70, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Cafe

Savour classic sandwiches and kiwi dishes at the budget-friendly Redcliff Cafe.
Near glowworm caves.
NZD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Free afternoon exploring Lake Te Anau

Spend the afternoon by the lake, enjoy a hike or simply relax by the water.
Located near the cafe.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your accommodation in Te Anau for a relaxing evening.
Short drive away.
NZD120, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

End your day at The Fat Duck, known for delicious options for families.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy an early breakfast to prepare for a day of adventure.
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set off early for the iconic Milford Sound, about 1.5 hours away, for breathtaking views.
Follow the scenic SH94.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Enjoy an unforgettable cruise through the stunning fjords, watching waterfalls and wildlife.
Depart from Milford Sound Docks.
NZD90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Cafe

Have lunch at the cafe while enjoying the scenic views surrounding you.
Near the docks.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Te Anau while reminiscing about the morning's adventures.
Take your time on the return journey.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Option to explore local hikes or relax

Spend your afternoon exploring local hikes or relaxing by the lake.
Depending on preference.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle back into your Te Anau accommodation for the night.
Short drive back.
NZD120, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Moose Bar & Grill

Wrap up your day at The Moose Bar & Grill with a family-friendly menu.
In Te Anau.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Te Anau to Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with breakfast before departing.
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Dunedin

Enjoy the 3-hour drive to Dunedin, with views along the way.
Follow SH94 then SH1.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Good Oil

Savour some wholesome fare at The Good Oil cafe with fresh ingredients.
Find location in Dunedin.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Dunedin Railway Station

Explore the stunning Dunedin Railway Station and its beautiful architecture.
Short walk from lunch.
NZD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle in your budget-friendly accommodation in Dunedin.
Short drive from railway station.
NZD100, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Otago Museum

Engage with the interactive exhibits at the Otago Museum, great for the kids.
5-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Antarctic Centre

Dine at The Antarctic Centre with themed meals providing fun and excitement for all.
In Dunedin.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Dunedin to Oamaru

Oamaru, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Oamaru.
At your hotel.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Oamaru

Travel 1-hour north to Oamaru, a delightful journey to coastal charm.
Follow SH1.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Experience the adorable blue penguins and learn about their habitats.
Short drive from Oamaru centre.
NZD30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Penny's Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Penny's with fresh seafood and local specialties.
Near the penguin colony.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Oamaru Town

Stroll through Oamaru's charming streets filled with Victorian architecture.
Short walk from lunch.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your comfortable lodging for the night.
Short drive from town.
NZD100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Last Post

Enjoy hearty Kiwi fare at The Last Post restaurant, a family favourite.
In Oamaru.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Oamaru to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast before your last trip leg back to Christchurch.
At your lodge.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Begin your final journey to Christchurch, around 3-hour drive.
Follow SH1.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tannery

Visit The Tannery for a lovely lunch with local artisan foods and cafes.
Short drive from arrival.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Christchurch's Re:start Mall

Discover the city’s reconstruction efforts at the Re:start Mall, showcasing local shops.
Short drive from the lunch spot.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the International Antarctic Centre

Feel the chill and learn about the Antarctic region before concluding your adventure.
Short drive from the mall.
NZD30, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Curator's House

Celebrate the end of your family trip with a delightful farewell dinner.
Near Hagley Park.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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