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12-Day Family Friendly Adventure in New Zealand

Viewed by 66 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on March 22, 2025

10:00AM

Arrive in Auckland

Welcome to New Zealand! After clearing customs, head to your accommodation and check in.
A taxi or pre-arranged shuttle can be taken from the airport to the city center.
NZD200, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Glasshouse

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at The Glasshouse, featuring an expansive menu with great views.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Sky Tower Visit

Head to the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views over Auckland and beyond.
A short walk from the restaurant.
NZD110, 2 hours

4:00PM

Auckland Waterfront Stroll

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, stopping for ice cream at a local vendor.
Walk to the waterfront area.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cassia

Enjoy a fusion of Indian and New Zealand cuisines at this family-friendly restaurant.
Short drive or taxi ride from the waterfront.
NZD160, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom Tom Bar and Eatery

Start the day with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients and delicious coffee.
Walking distance from your hotel.
NZD100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Auckland Zoo Visit

Spend the morning at Auckland Zoo, which is home to a variety of native and exotic animals.
Taxi will take about 15 minutes.
NZD120, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Have lunch in the zoo with kid-friendly options available.
Located within the Zoo.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium

Immerse your family in an underwater world of marine life, including penguins and sharks.
A short taxi ride from the zoo.
NZD100, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Family Restaurant

Enjoy a casual dining experience at a local family-friendly restaurant.
5 minutes drive from the aquarium.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on March 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel.
In-house dining.
NZD80, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set out for a scenic drive to Rotorua, famous for its geysers and hot springs.
Rent a car for flexibility.
NZD70 (Car rental), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Wagner’s Pizza

Savor delicious wood-fired pizzas that are extremely kid-friendly.
Located near the geothermal park.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Explore the wonders of Te Puia, including geysers and Maori cultural performances.
Short drive from the restaurant.
NZD80, 3 hours

4:30PM

Pohutu Geyser Viewing

Witness the magnificent Pohutu Geyser, which erupts up to 30 meters high.
Within Te Puia grounds.
NZD0 (Included with Te Puia entrance), 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at the Pig & Whistle

An iconic Rotorua establishment with a casual atmosphere and great menu for families.
Eat here after visiting Te Puia.
NZD140, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Fun in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy breakfast with views over Rotorua Lake, the perfect start to your day.
In the same vicinity.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Redwoods Treewalk

Admire Rotorua's stunning redwoods from a unique perspective on the treetop walk.
Short drive from the restaurant.
NZD90, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at Kuirau Park

Visit this geothermal park, where the kids can play and you can soak in mud pools.
Close drive, about 10 minutes.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lady Jane’s

Enjoy some hearty, homemade meals perfect for the family.
Short distance from Kuirau Park.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Agrodome Farm Show

Experience New Zealand’s farming culture with an entertaining show featuring sheep and other animals.
Drive about 15 minutes.
NZD75, 2 hours

4:30PM

Maori Cultural Evening

Participate in an authentic Maori experience with dinner typically included.
These events are highly suggested by accommodations.
NZD200, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Travel to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on March 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hot Rock

A cozy café serving delicious breakfast that will fuel your journey ahead.
Short drive to the café.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Begin your journey southward to Wellington, New Zealand’s colorful capital.
Car rental allows flexibility on the road.
NZD70 (Car rental), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Wellington Waterfront

Take a leisurely lunch at a café or food stall by the vibrant waterfront.
Walk around the area.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Te Papa Museum Visit

Explore New Zealand’s national museum, rich in interactive exhibits for families.
Walking distance from the waterfront.
NZD0 (Free Entry), 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Moore Wilson's

Enjoy a selection of plates made from fresh, local ingredients with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short drive from Te Papa.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: Explore Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Prefab

Savor the famous coffee and gourmet breakfast, popular among locals.
Walking distance from your hotel.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Explore this groundbreaking ecological restoration project showcasing New Zealand’s wildlife.
A short drive from hotel.
NZD50, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Roxy Cinema

Indulge in lunch in this unique setting, combining cinema with a fantastic menu.
Short drive or a good walk.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Enjoy stunning panoramic views while riding this historic cable car up to the Botanic Garden.
Walking distance from the Roxy.
NZD20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Wellington Botanic Garden

Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens that offer fun play areas for kids.
Located at the cable car terminal.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Old Bank

End the day with a delightful dining experience serving New Zealand cuisine.
A short walk or drive back to the central area.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Travel to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before checking out.
In-house dining.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fly to Christchurch

Catch a domestic flight to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island.
Taxi to the airport and approximately 1-hour flight.
NZD300 (for family), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dux Central

A casual eatery known for seafood and kids' meals, ideal for families.
Short drive from the airport.
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Discover the beautiful gardens in the heart of Christchurch, perfect for a family walk.
A short drive or taxi ride.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Engage the kids with fascinating exhibits about the region’s culture and natural history.
Adjacent to the Botanic Gardens.
NZD0 (Free Entry), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Join the locals for a family-friendly dinner with a cozy atmosphere.
Close to the museum.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 8: Explore Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on March 29, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Running Duck Café

Enjoy a warm breakfast with smooth coffee in a vibrant setting.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ride the Christchurch Gondola

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surroundings from the gondola.
Short drive required.
NZD60, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Antarctic Centre

Engage in fun, educational activities and learn about life in Antarctica.
Located nearby the gondola.
NZD100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Café at the Antarctic Centre

Refuel with sandwiches and kids’ meals catering to different tastes.
On-site dining.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the City Centre

Stroll through the revitalized city center, visiting shops and art installations.
Taxi or a scenic walk option.
NZD0 (for walking), 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Monday Room

A well-regarded eatery focusing on seasonal cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Close to the city centre.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 9: Travel to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on March 30, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a filling breakfast to kickstart your adventure to Queenstown.
In-house dining.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly to Queenstown

Catch a domestic flight to the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Head to the airport for your flight.
NZD300 (for family), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ivy & Lola’s

Enjoy a riverside lunch with a variety of kid-friendly meals in a family-friendly environment.
Short walk from the airport.
NZD120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through spectacular gardens and let the kids enjoy the playgrounds.
Easy walking distance from lunch.
NZD0 (Free Entry), 2 hours

4:00PM

Ride the Skyline Gondola

Ascend Bob's Peak for brilliant views and fun activities like luging.
Short walk from the gardens.
NZD70, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine in at a spectacular location with breathtaking views over Queenstown.
Same location as the gondola.
NZD180, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 10: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Colonel's Son

Start the day with hearty breakfast options that are sure to please everyone.
Walking distance from your accommodations.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park

Get enchanted by the native kiwi and other New Zealand wildlife in a family-friendly environment.
Short drive to the park.
NZD90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Family-friendly burgers that are iconic, making it a must-visit in Queenstown.
Quick drive or walk.
NZD120, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu, perfect for taking in spectacular mountain views.
Near the waterfront.
NZD150 (family pass), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Jumpshot at Queenstown Luge

Opt for an exhilarating ride down the picturesque luge course - fun for everyone!
Return to the gondola area.
NZD120, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

End the day with rustic Italian dishes in an iconic setting within Queenstown.
Close to the luge area.
NZD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand on April 1, 2025

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at a Café

Grab an early bite at your hotel or nearby before your excursion.
Quick snack at the hotel.
NZD50, 30 mins

6:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set off on a breathtaking drive to Milford Sound, with amazing scenery along the way.
Drive takes about 2 hours.
NZD40 (fuel costs), 2 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Set sail through the majestic Milford Sound on a family-friendly cruise.
Arranged ticket in advance.
NZD600 (family pass), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Milford Sound

After the cruise, take some time to explore the scenic area and enjoy waterfalls.
Walking around without vehicle.
NZD0 (Free Entry), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Enjoy a reasonable lunch overlooking the Sound as a relaxing interlude.
On-site café.
NZD150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Enjoy the scenic drive back before your evening plans.
Same route back.
NZD40 (fuel costs), 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax and Free Time

Spend some time exploring Queenstown's shops or resting back at the hotel.
Exploring downtown.

5:30PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savor exquisite cuisine with a warm atmosphere, perfect for family dining.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 12: Departure from Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Take your last breakfast in beautiful Queenstown.
In-house dining.
NZD80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-out and Last-Minute Shopping

Check out of your hotel and stroll through local shops for souvenirs.
Walking around downtown.
NZD50 (for gifts), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Head to Queenstown Airport

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Short drive to the airport.
NZD40, 30 mins
Find Hotels in Queenstown
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