7-Day Nature and Foodie Itinerary in New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on January 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at O'Connell Street Bistro

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring fresh NZ ingredients, perfect for fuel before an adventure.
Drive from your accommodation in downtown Auckland.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Sky Tower Visit

Ascend the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking views of the Auckland skyline and surrounding harbors.
Short drive or a walk from the bistro.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll through Auckland Domain

Enjoy a leisurely walk in the oldest park in Auckland, where you can admire the beautiful gardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Drive 10 minutes to the park entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Refuel with some delicious sandwiches and local brews in a New York-style deli setting.
5-minute drive from Auckland Domain.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Waiheke Island Wine Tour

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island and enjoy a guided tour of some of the finest vineyards, tasting local wines.
Ferry terminal is a 10-minute drive from lunch spot.
NZD150 (tour), 4 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sidart

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a tasting menu featuring contemporary New Zealand cuisine and stunning views.
Return via ferry and a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
NZD150, 2 hours
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Day 2: Adventures in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on January 15, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Factory

Fuel up with locally sourced ingredients and hearty meals perfect for a day of exploring.
Drive from Auckland to Rotorua, approximately 3 hours.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Geothermal Park Visit

Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, featuring vibrant colored hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
A short 30-minute drive from the bistro.
NZD30, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Rotorua Night Market

Dive into a variety of local street foods ranging from corn fritters to hangi, all sold from food stalls.
Drive 15 minutes to the night market location.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Te Puia

Experience Maori culture and witness the famous Pōhutu geyser and hot springs at Te Puia.
Drive 10 minutes from lunch.
NZD50, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Relax in Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the natural thermal mineral pools while soaking in the beauty of Lake Rotorua.
A quick 5-minute drive back to the spa.
NZD80, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy New Zealand cuisine with a stunning view of the skyline as the sun sets.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature at Lake Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand on January 16, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lake Taupo’s Replete Cafe & Store

Enjoy gorgeous lake views while savoring a delightful brekkie featuring local produce.
Drive from Rotorua to Taupo, around 1 hour.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the stunning flows of Huka Falls and walk along the scenic trails around the area.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Mountain Biking at Craters of the Moon

Explore the unique geothermal area with bike trails winding through scenic landscapes.
A quick 10-minute drive.
NZD50 (bike rental), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Bistro

Savor a delightful lunch featuring locally caught seafood and seasonal veggies.
10-minute drive back to Taupo’s town center.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Take a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo and marvel at the Maori rock carvings.
Walk from the bistro to the port.
NZD75, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at Taupo's Hot Springs

Enjoy a soak in the natural hot springs surrounded by lush scenery.
20-minute drive from the port.
NZD25, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Lakehouse

Indulge in gourmet dishes focused on the fresh ingredients and stunning lake views.
Drive back to Taupo town.
NZD120, 2 hours
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Day 4: Hiking in Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand on January 17, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Kickstart the challenge with an early breakfast to prepare for an exciting hike ahead.
N/A (eating at the hotel).
Included with hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing trek, known for its stunning landscapes and volcanic features.
The trek begins at a designated point less than 30 minutes from Taupo.
NZD40 (shuttle to start point), 6-8 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Pinnacles Restaurant

After a day of hiking, enjoy a delectable meal that celebrates local flavors and ingredients.
Drive back to Taupo after the trek.
NZD90, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Day in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on January 18, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Fidel's Cafe

Savor a delicious breakfast at this popular local spot, famous for its fresh produce and warm atmosphere.
Drive from Tongariro to Wellington, about 4 hours.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of New Zealand, with interactive displays at this national museum.
Drive 10 minutes from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood prepared with creativity and flair in a cozy bistro setting.
A short 5-minute drive from Te Papa.
NZD45, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Zealandia

Journey through this wildlife sanctuary to see native species in their natural habitat.
Drive 15 minutes from lunch.
NZD20, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Wellington Cable Car

Ride the famous cable car to the Botanic Gardens for panoramic views and lovely walking paths.
10-minute drive back to the city center.
NZD8, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The White House

End your day with fine dining that perfectly blends nature's offerings in a relaxed environment.
15-minute drive from the cable car.
NZD120, 2 hours
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Day 6: Adventure in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand on January 19, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast before embarking on your exciting day in Abel Tasman.
N/A (eating at the hotel).
Included with hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience the stunning coastal scenery of Abel Tasman National Park while kayaking through turquoise waters.
Drive from Wellington to Abel Tasman National Park, approximately 4.5 hours.
NZD100 (kayak rental), 3 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic Lunch on the Beach

Stop for a refreshing picnic lunch with locally sourced ingredients on one of the pristine beaches.
Find a suitable beach along your kayaking route.
NZD20 (for picnic ingredients), 1 hour

1:00 PM

Hiking the Coastal Track

Continue exploring the beauty of the park with a hike along the coastal track, taking in breathtaking views.
Follow the trail from your picnic spot.
Free, 3 hours

4:30 PM

Drive to Nelson

Head to Nelson for a peaceful evening after a day of exploration.
30-minute drive from Abel Tasman.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30 PM

Dinner at Hopgoods

Enjoy creative dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a vibrant bistro ambiance.
Drive around Nelson city center.
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 7: Last Day in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand on January 20, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Boat Shed

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with views of the harbor to start your last day in New Zealand.
Drive from your accommodation in Nelson.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene, filled with artisan goods, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.
Drive 10 minutes to the market location.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Waimea River

Take a stroll or cycle along the scenic Waimea River and the nearby parks, immersing in nature.
Drive 15 minutes to the river entrance.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Smokehouse

Savor some of the best smoked dishes in the region, paired with local wines.
Drive 10 minutes back to Nelson city center.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Founders Heritage Park

Discover the city's history and culture in this beautifully crafted heritage park.
Drive 5 minutes from lunch.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend your last afternoon unwinding at one of Nelson's beautiful beaches, absorbing the stunning scenery.
10-minute drive to the nearest beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Cow

Conclude your New Zealand adventure with a farewell dinner, enjoying the cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine.
Drive 10 minutes back to the city center.
NZD70, 2 hours
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