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12-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip in New Zealand: Nature, Cities, and Indian Cuisine

Viewed by 70 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast featuring fresh ingredients at this popular spot.
Head northeast for 10 minutes to Devonport after breakfast.
NZD40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Ferry to Devonport

Take a ferry from Auckland to the charming seaside village of Devonport, where you can explore local shops and beaches.
Ferry ride takes approx. 12 minutes.
NZD20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Aunty Mena’s

Enjoy delicious North Indian cuisine at this cozy spot, known for its warm hospitality and great flavors.
After lunch, drive towards Rotorua, a 3-hour journey.
NZD90, 1 hour

3:30PM

Check into Hotel in Rotorua

Settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax after the drive.
N/A
NZD150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Witness geothermal wonders along with the culture of the Māori people at this fascinating park.
A short 10-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Spice Indian

Savor a variety of authentic Indian dishes, ideal for the family to share and experience the rich flavors.
Back to hotel after dinner.
NZD110, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Relax in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brewed Awakening

Fuel up with hearty breakfast staples from this highly-rated café.
5-minute drive to Whakarewarewa.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whakarewarewa Village Tour

Discover the geothermal village and learn about Māori culture and history.
10-minute drive back to your hotel after the tour.
NZD60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Indian Star Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist, perfect for the family.
10 minutes to drive back to town.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in these natural thermal pools while enjoying views of Lake Rotorua.
Short 5-minute drive.
NZD120, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Skyline Rotorua

Take a gondola ride up for an incredible view and enjoy an Indian platter for dinner.
5-minute drive.
NZD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shack

Grab a quick and delicious breakfast in Rotorua before heading out.
30-minute drive to Taupo.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Admire the stunning blue waters of Huka Falls and take some family photos.
15-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lake Taupo Water Activities

Rent a boat or kayaks for some fun family water activities on the lake.
5-minute drive to the lakefront.
NZD200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saffron

Enjoy a flavorful lunch featuring a variety of Indian dishes that cater to all palates.
5-minute drive.
NZD100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore this geothermal park with its walking tracks and steam rising from the ground.
10-minute drive.
NZD35, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Route

Enjoy delectable Indian cuisine in a warm atmosphere, perfect for the family.
10-minute drive.
NZD110, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Capital City Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sugarloaf

Enjoy a beautiful breakfast view of Lake Taupo at this café.
3-hour drive to Wellington.
NZD70, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum, filled with interactive exhibits suitable for the whole family.
Short 10-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Monsoon Poon

Savor Asian-inspired dishes with a distinct Indian flair in this bustling restaurant.
Walking distance from the museum.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Take a scenic ride to the top, with splendid views of the city and harbor.
Walk to the cable car station from the waterfront.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Arborist

Unwind at this rooftop bar that features a menu with Indian classics alongside Kiwi favorites.
10-minute drive from the cable car station.
NZD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Ferry to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Mothers Kitchen

Enjoy a quirky breakfast at this trendy café filled with New Zealand flavors.
A short walk to the ferry terminal.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Picton

Board the scenic ferry to Picton, surrounded by beautiful ocean views.
2-hour ferry ride.
NZD150, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Mussel Pot

Choose an Indian-spiced seafood dish at this local gem, right on the waterfront.
Walking distance from the ferry terminal.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Learn about maritime history at this unique museum in Picton.
15-minute walk.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Picton's Queen Charlotte Sound

Take a scenic walk in the stunning natural surroundings of Queen Charlotte Sound.
Rental car from Picton's harbor area.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Indian Tandoor

Indulge in flavorful Indian dishes while overlooking the marina as the sun sets.
10-minute drive.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 6: Nature in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Freehouse

Savor local flavors in a cozy atmosphere before beginning your trip to Nelson.
1-hour drive to Nelson.
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Explore this vibrant market filled with local produce and crafts, open on Saturdays.
Short drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Indian Aroma

Enjoy a mix of traditional Indian dishes that cater to vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets alike.
5-minute drive.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Abel Tasman National Park

Embark on a family-friendly hike to experience the stunning flora and fauna of the park.
30-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nelson

Wrap your day with some relaxation before dinner.
30-minute return drive.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hopgood's & Co.

End your day with delightful fusion cuisine featuring Indian-inspired flavors.
10-minute drive.
NZD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 7: Abel Tasman Adventures

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Accommodation

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before your adventure.
N/A
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kayaking at Abel Tasman

Discover the stunning coastline and wildlife while kayaking in the crystal-clear waters.
20-minute drive to the kayak rental location.
NZD150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch on the Beach

Savor a relaxing beach picnic featuring Indian-inspired snack options you packed from Nelson earlier.
N/A
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Hiking Trails

Choose from various easy trails in the park that allow for beautiful views and wildlife spotting.
Starting point is near the beach.
NZD0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Nelson

Return to your accommodation to freshen up after an exciting day.
20-minute drive back.
NZD0, 20 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Café

Enjoy delicious, authentic Indian dishes to round off your day of adventure.
5-minute drive.
NZD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 8: Garden City Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ristretto

Fuel up with coffee and pastries at this cozy café before your drive to Christchurch.
3-hour drive from Nelson.
NZD50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll around these beautiful gardens that showcase native and exotic plants.
30-minute drive to the gardens.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Botanic Garden Café

Enjoy a light, refreshing lunch in the picturesque surroundings of the gardens.
N/A
NZD90, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Experience the rich natural and cultural heritage of New Zealand in this engaging museum.
10-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Indian Suvai

Indulge in authentic Indian flavors with a family-friendly menu to round off your day.
15-minute drive.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 9: Scenic Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before an early drive to Lake Tekapo.
3-hour drive.
NZD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Marvel at this iconic church with stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps.
5-minute drive to the church.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Lake Tekapo Tavern

Relish Indian-inspired pub fare with an amazing view of the lake.
Walking distance from the church.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Explore the region's night sky as part of an organized stargazing tour.
5-minute drive or walking distance if staying near.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Tekapo Springs

Enjoy hot pools and family fun at this resort with beautiful views.
5-minute drive.
NZD120, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at your Accommodation

Wind down your day with a family meal featuring Indian dishes at your lodging.
N/A
NZD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 10: Adventuring in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Get ready for a day full of excitement with breakfast at your hotel.
1.5-hour scenic drive to Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

Experience spectacular views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu from the top.
10-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Skyline Queenstown

Indulge in an Indian buffet with stunning panoramic views of the mountains.
N/A
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Arrowtown

Discover the historical gold-mining village just a short drive away from Queenstown.
20-minute drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Try Adventure Sports

Select from numerous adventure sports options like bungee jumping or a thrilling jet boat ride.
Back to Queenstown.
NZD200, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Pizza and Spaghetti House

End your adventurous day with an Indian twist on a hearty meal at this rustic Italian restaurant.
Short 5-minute walk.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Milford Sound Marvel

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Get an early breakfast before heading out for a day trip to Milford Sound.
2-hour drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cruise Milford Sound

Set out on a breathtaking scenic cruise through the stunning fjords of Milford Sound.
Arrive at the ferry terminal; allow time for parking.
NZD120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch on the Cruise

Pack and enjoy a picnic lunch featuring Indian treats while soaking in the views.
N/A
NZD0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Milford Sound on Foot

Take time to walk around and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Walk about around the ferry terminal.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive Back to Queenstown

Return from your magical day by driving back to Queenstown.
2-hour drive back.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pedro's House of Lamb

Treat your family to splendid lamb dishes with Indian spices in a warm atmosphere.
10-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 12: Cultural Exploration in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up for the final day of your family adventure in Dunedin.
4-hour drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Otago Museum

Explore the vast collections and hands-on exhibits that are fun for all ages.
Driving distance from your accommodation.
NZD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Good Earth Café

Customize your lunch at this wholesome café with fresh, organic Indian meals.
10-minute drive.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Larnach Castle

Visit New Zealand's only castle, with stunning gardens and history.
20-minute drive from café.
NZD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Careys Bay Hotel

Enjoy a waterfront dining experience featuring Indian dishes with a modern Kiwi twist.
30-minute drive back to your hotel.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin
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