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14-Day Eco-Friendly Adventure in New Zealand

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on October 31, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pocket Bar & Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this eco-friendly cafe that sources its ingredients locally.
Walk or drive to
NZD20, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Skytower Observation Deck

Take an elevator to the top of the Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland and beyond.
Drive to the Sky Tower in the city center.
NZD32, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at La Vista

Relish a fresh seafood lunch at this restaurant that emphasizes sustainable fishing practices.
Walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Auckland Domain & Wintergardens

Stroll through the beautiful Auckland Domain and explore its stunning gardens.
Drive to Auckland Domain.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Indulge in a fine dining experience at a restaurant focusing on organic produce.
Short drive from Auckland Domain.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Adventure in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on November 1, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Crave Cafe

Savor a delicious plant-based breakfast at this trendy cafe offering locally roasted coffee.
Walk or drive to
NZD18, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Ferry to Waiheke Island

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of relaxation and wine tasting.
Ferry terminal is a short drive from the cafe.
NZD40, 1 hour ferry ride

11:00 AM

Wine Tasting at Mudbrick Vineyard

Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at this renowned winery with stunning views.
Drive / walk with tour bus from ferry terminal.
NZD50, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Oyster Inn

Dine on fresh local seafood with a view of the beach.
A short drive or walk from the vineyard.
NZD35, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Onetangi Beach

Relax or take a walk on the beautiful sandy beaches of Onetangi.
Drive from The Oyster Inn.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Ferry back to Auckland

Return to Auckland in the evening.
Ferry terminal at Onetangi.
NZD40, 1 hour ferry ride

7:00 PM

Dinner at Depot

Enjoy a casual dinner at this eatery known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Drive from the ferry terminal.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 2, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bestie Cafe

Start your day at this cozy cafe famous for its hearty breakfasts.
Drive to the cafe.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a scenic drive to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity.
Rent a car and head south.
NZD150 (rental car for the trip), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Enjoy a variety of options from local eateries at this famous food precinct.
Located near the city center upon arrival.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore the vibrant geothermal features, including geysers and natural pools.
Drive to Wai-O-Tapu park.
NZD32, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at the Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the mineral hot pools, taking advantage of the natural geothermal waters.
Drive back to central Rotorua.
NZD60, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Dine on seasonal, locally sourced dishes at this popular bistro.
Short drive from Polynesian Spa.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand on November 3, 2024

7:30 AM

Breakfast at First Village

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Drive to the cafe.
NZD18, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Taupo

Head to Taupo, home of the stunning Lake Taupo.
Drive from Rotorua.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at the beauty of Huka Falls, an impressive waterfall with walkways along the river.
Just a short drive from Taupo.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Brantry

Dine on gourmet kiwifruit dishes at this contemporary bistro with lake views.
Drive from Huka Falls.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lake Taupo Activities

Choose between sailing, kayaking, or even skydiving for an adrenaline rush.
Various local operators on the lake's edge.
NZD150 (varied by activity), 3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Lake House

Savor a meal featuring fresh ingredients and local wines right by the lake.
Drive back to central Taupo.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro NP, New Zealand on November 4, 2024

6:30 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up before a big day of hiking.
N/A
Free, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Head toward one of New Zealand's most iconic parks known for its stunning landscapes.
Drive from Taupo.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing (Hiking)

Experience one of the best one-day hikes in the world, showcasing amazing views.
Start from the park entrance.
NZD60 (transportation & parks fees), 8 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Chateau Tongariro

Enjoy a meal at this historic hotel with views of Mount Ruapehu.
Drive back to the Chateau.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro NP

Day 6: Wellington Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand on November 5, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Loretta

Eat a delectable breakfast at this community-oriented cafe.
Drive to the cafe.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Wellington

Head to the capital city of New Zealand for an urban adventure.
Drive from Tongariro National Park.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Enjoy lunch at one of the many eclectic eateries along this famous street.
Walk to Cuba Street from park your car.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum, showcasing its cultural and natural heritage.
Walking distance from Cuba Street.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Enjoy Wellington Waterfront

Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Walk from Te Papa Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes with a local twist.
Short drive from the waterfront.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Kaikoura Joins Sea and Land

Kaikoura, New Zealand on November 6, 2024

6:30 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a light meal.
N/A
Free, 30 mins

7:00 AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Journey north along the coast to the famous marine life hotspot.
Drive from Wellington.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 2.5 hours

9:30 AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on a memorable whale-watching experience where you may see a variety of marine life.
Meet at the local tour operator's office.
NZD150, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Grab a casual lunch overlooking the ocean freshness.
Walk from the tour operator.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a picturesque walk along the coastline, spotting seals and stunning views.
Short drive or walk depending on location.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Greenhouse

Savor a meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients in a lovely setting.
Short drive from the peninsula.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 8: Christchurch Adventure

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 7, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Black Betty

Enjoy a delicious breakfast along with great coffee at this popular spot.
Short drive from your accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Christchurch

Leave Kaikoura and drive to the South Island's largest city.
Drive from Kaikoura.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the expansive Botanic Gardens and enjoy the beauty of numerous plant species.
Head downtown to the Gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Victoria Street

Choose from several eateries at this chic district.
A short walk from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Cardboard Cathedral

Visit the iconic Cardboard Cathedral, a symbol of Christchurch's resilience.
Walk a short distance from Victoria Street.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Dine on modern cuisine with a focus on sustainability.
Drive from the cathedral.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 9: Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook, New Zealand on November 8, 2024

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up before a day filled with adventures.
N/A
Free, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Travel through the picturesque landscapes to New Zealand's highest peak.
Drive from Christchurch.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Hermitage

Enjoy a meal with stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Drive to The Hermitage Hotel.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Hooker Valley Track

Take a scenic and relatively flat walk along the Hooker Valley Track.
Starting point is nearby The Hermitage.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Old Mountaineer

Dine on local cuisine at this cozy eatery.
Returning to The Hermitage.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

Day 10: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 9, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Exchange Cafe

Enjoy breakfast at this casual dining spot known for its community vibe.
Drive to the cafe.
NZD20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Queenstown

Set off for Queenstown, known for adventure sports and stunning scenery.
Drive from Mount Cook.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in one of the best burgers in the world at this iconic eatery.
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Skyline Gondola

Take the gondola up for magnificent views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and surrounding mountains.
Short drive to the gondola base.
NZD45, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savor a quality meal focusing on local produce and meats.
Back in central Queenstown.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Milford Sound Experience

Milford Sound, New Zealand on November 10, 2024

6:00 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a light meal to start your long day.
N/A
Free, 1 hour

7:00 AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Travel from Queenstown to see one of New Zealand's most famous natural wonders.
Drive to Milford Sound.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 4 hours

11:00 AM

Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Explore breathtaking landscapes by boat and enjoy views of waterfalls and wildlife.
Meet at the cruise terminal.
NZD150, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Sound Lodge

Have a relaxing lunch with views over Milford Sound.
Located near the cruise terminal.
NZD35, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Short Nature Walk

Take a gentle walk in the area to soak up the natural beauty.
Just outside the lodge.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Return to Queenstown in the evening.
Drive back the same route.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 4 hours

9:00 PM

Dinner at the Cow Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner after a long day of adventure.
Back in Queenstown.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 12: Scenic Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on November 11, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Rubys

Start your day at this local favorite known for delightful breakfasts.
Drive to the cafe.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Wanaka

Travel to the charming town of Wanaka, known for its stunning lake and mountains.
Drive from Queenstown.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Take a picture of the famous lone tree that has become a symbol of the area.
Short drive to lakefront.
Free, 30 mins

11:30 AM

Stroll the Lakefront

Walk along the beautiful lakefront with stunning views of mountains.
Continue along the lakefront path.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Brick Room

Savor delicious locally-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
At Walking distance from the lakefront.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Puzzling World

Experience the mind-bending attractions and labyrinths in this unique theme park.
Short drive from The Brick Room.
NZD25, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

Visit for a casual yet delightful dinner focusing on local ingredients.
Short drive or walk from Puzzling World.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 13: Franz Josef Glaciers

Franz Josef, New Zealand on November 12, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Have a light breakfast before heading out for the day.
N/A
Free, 30 mins

7:30 AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Head towards Franz Josef, known for its stunning glaciers.
Drive from Wanaka.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 3.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Franz Josef Glacier

Join a guided glacier tour or hike to take in the spectacular sights.
Meet at the tour operator's office.
NZD250 (for guided tour), 4 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at The Landing

Dine at this eatery known for fresh, local ingredients.
Short drive from the glacier.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at the Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind and enjoy the warmth of the hot pools after a day of exploring.
Short drive to the hot pools.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Tua Marina Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner at this local favorite.
Short drive back into town.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 14: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on November 13, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a fulfilling meal.
N/A
Free, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Auckland

Make your way back to Auckland for your departure.
Drive from Franz Josef.
Free (fuel cost for rental car), 6 hours

3:00 PM

Late Lunch at The Coffee Emporium

Enjoy a late lunch at this popular spot with lovely outdoor seating.
Centrally located in Auckland.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Last-minute Shopping

Explore Queen Street for last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
Walking distance from The Coffee Emporium.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Vinnies

Wrap up your New Zealand adventure with a farewell dinner at this intimate restaurant known for its local dishes.
Drive a short distance from Queen Street.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland
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