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

Viewed by 66 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast of classic Kiwi favorites featured at this popular restaurant.
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, known for its local boutiques and eateries.
Ferry ride takes approx. 12 minutes.
NZD20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Devonport Chocolatier

Savor delectable sweet and savory crepes paired with rich hot chocolate at this delightful café.
After lunch, drive towards Rotorua, a 3-hour journey.
NZD70, 1 hour

3:30PM

Check into Hotel in Rotorua

Unwind and get settled into your hotel, ready for the exciting activities ahead.
N/A
NZD150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Witness geothermal wonders and learn about Māori culture in this fascinating living museum.
A short 10-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy a family-friendly dining experience with a diverse menu featuring local New Zealand dishes.
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 plates made from fresh local ingredients at this favorite café.
5-minute drive to Whakarewarewa.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whakarewarewa Village Tour

Explore this geothermal village and learn about Māori culture, traditions, and daily life.
10-minute drive back to your hotel after the tour.
NZD60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Indian Star Restaurant

Indulge in delicious North Indian dishes, making it an ideal family lunch spot.
10 minutes to drive back to town.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

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

5:30PM

Dinner at The Skyline Rotorua

Take a gondola ride up for spectacular views, followed by a delicious buffet dinner featuring Kiwi favorites.
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

Start your day with fresh pastries and great coffee at this local favorite.
30-minute drive to Taupo.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

See the stunning spectacle of Huka Falls and snap family photos against the backdrop.
15-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lake Taupo Water Activities

Rent a boat or kayaks for a fun-filled day on the beautiful waters of Lake Taupo.
5-minute drive to the lakefront.
NZD200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saffron

Delight in an array of authentic Indian dishes perfect for sharing with the family.
5-minute drive.
NZD100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore the unique geothermal park with captivating walking tracks and steamy landscape.
10-minute drive.
NZD35, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Route

Wind down with a fantastic meal featuring a variety of delicious Indian dishes.
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

Start your day with a beautiful breakfast view and hearty dishes at this café.
3-hour drive to Wellington.
NZD70, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Discover New Zealand's national museum filled with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays.
Short 10-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Monsoon Poon

Enjoy an eclectic menu that infuses Indian-inspired dishes with flavors from across Asia.
Walking distance from the museum.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Enjoy a scenic ride to the top of the hill for panoramic 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 with a menu that features Indian favorites alongside locally sourced dishes.
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 filled with fresh flavors in this trendy café.
A short walk to the ferry terminal.
NZD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Picton

Board the scenic ferry to Picton, soaking in beautiful ocean views during the ride.
2-hour ferry ride.
NZD150, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Mussel Pot

Select from a diverse menu with local seafood and delightful flavors in this popular eatery.
Walking distance from the ferry terminal.
NZD80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Learn about maritime history in this unique museum home to one of the world's oldest ships.
15-minute walk.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Picton's Queen Charlotte Sound

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

6:30PM

Dinner at Indian Tandoor

End your day with flavorful Indian cuisine overlooking the marina at sunset.
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 and artisan breakfast classics in a comfy, welcoming setting before driving to Nelson.
1-hour drive to Nelson.
NZD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Explore this lively market offering fresh produce and handmade crafts, available on Saturdays.
Short drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Indian Café

Choose from a variety of delicious Indian dishes that accommodate all tastes in this friendly eatery.
5-minute drive.
NZD90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Abel Tasman National Park

Embark on a family-friendly hike to experience the breathtaking landscapes the park has to offer.
30-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nelson

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

6:30PM

Dinner at Hopgood's & Co.

Savor delightful meals with a mix of local and international flavors in a friendly atmosphere.
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 generous breakfast before your action-packed adventure.
N/A
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kayaking at Abel Tasman

Discover the stunning coastline and marine wildlife while enjoying family kayaking time.
20-minute drive to the kayak rental location.
NZD150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch on the Beach

Enjoy a homemade picnic lunch featuring classic Kiwi sandwiches and snacks packed earlier.
N/A
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Hiking Trails

Choose from easy trails in the park that provide an opportunity to spot wildlife and breathtaking vistas.
Starting point is near the beach.
NZD0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Nelson

Head back to refresh after another fun-filled day in Abel Tasman.
20-minute drive back.
NZD0, 20 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Café

Enjoy a feast of delicious Indian specialties in a welcoming atmosphere to wrap up your day.
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

Start with good coffee and baked goodies at this highly-rated breakfast spot before making the drive to Christchurch.
3-hour drive from Nelson.
NZD50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through this beautiful park that showcases a wide variety of 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 with picturesque views of the gardens.
N/A
NZD90, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Engage in the rich culture and natural history showcased in this interactive museum.
10-minute drive from the café.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Indian Suvai

Delight in an array of classic Indian dishes specially curated for families in a cozy setting.
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

Fuel up for the last leg of your journey with a good breakfast before heading 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

Savor Kiwi dishes with an Indian twist alongside the breathtaking water views.
Walking distance from the church.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Discover the astonishing night sky by participating in an organized stargazing tour under clear skies.
5-minute drive or walking distance if staying near.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Tekapo Springs

Enjoy some relaxation time with hot pools and thrilling slides at this family-friendly resort.
5-minute drive.
NZD120, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at your Accommodation

End your day with a family meal featuring a blend of local specialties with Indian flavors.
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 an exciting day ahead with breakfast at your hotel.
1.5-hour scenic drive to Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

Ascend for stunning views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu from the platform at the top.
10-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Skyline Queenstown

Indulge in a buffet featuring a mix of Indian and local specialty dishes with incredible views.
N/A
NZD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Arrowtown

Visit this historic gold-mining village just a short drive from Queenstown, rich in charm.
20-minute drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Try Adventure Sports

Choose from thrilling options including bungee jumping or a wild jet boat ride to get your adrenaline pumping.
Back to Queenstown.
NZD200, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Pizza and Spaghetti House

Savor heartwarming Italian dishes with Indian flavors and spices to round off your adventurous day.
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

Start the day early with a filling breakfast before heading out to Milford Sound.
2-hour drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cruise Milford Sound

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

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch on the Cruise

Remember to pack and enjoy a picnic lunch featuring delightful Kiwi-style sandwiches.
N/A
NZD0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Milford Sound on Foot

Walk around the stunning area and soak in the natural beauty surrounding you.
Walk about around the ferry terminal.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive Back to Queenstown

Return back after a magical day exploring the extraordinary landscapes.
2-hour drive back.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pedro's House of Lamb

Treat your family to exquisite lamb dishes flavored with spices unique to New Zealand.
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

Enjoy your final breakfast of the trip before heading to Dunedin for cultural exploration.
4-hour drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Otago Museum

Delve into the rich collections and exhibits that tell the story of New Zealand's history.
Driving distance from your accommodation.
NZD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Good Earth Café

Choose fresh, organic dishes with a focus on local ingredients and delightful flavors.
10-minute drive.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Larnach Castle

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

6:00PM

Dinner at Careys Bay Hotel

Enjoy a waterfront dining experience featuring a variety of local dishes with a unique twist.
30-minute drive back to your hotel.
NZD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin
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