Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

14-Day Adventure in Auckland and South New Zealand

Viewed by 74 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Little & Friday

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this popular café to fuel your adventures ahead.
Located in Grey Lynn, a short drive or ride from the city center.
NZD 25, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Sky Tower

Ascend to the observation deck of the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking views of Auckland and beyond.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from Little & Friday.
NZD 32, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Depot

Enjoy fresh New Zealand seafood and an array of delicious small plates at this trendy eatery.
15-minute walk from Sky Tower.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Auckland Museum

Discover the rich history and diverse cultures of New Zealand at this fascinating museum set in the beautiful Auckland Domain.
25-minute walk or 10-minute drive from Depot.
NZD 25, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Parnell's La Porchetta

Indulge in hearty Italian food with a Kiwi twist in a vibrant atmosphere.
10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Auckland Museum.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffe L'affare

Savor a scrumptious breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients at this cozy café.
Close to the central city area.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island

Enjoy a scenic boat ride and explore the vineyards and beaches of this stunning island.
Ferry terminal located near the Auckland waterfront.
NZD 42, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard

Relax with a vineyard lunch paired with breathtaking views across the water.
10-minute drive from the ferry terminal on Waiheke.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Wine tasting at Te Whau Vineyard

Sample exquisite local wines at this renowned vineyard, known for its unique terroir.
15-minute drive from Mudbrick.
NZD 25, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

End your day with a delightful dining experience featuring fresh seasonal produce.
Short drive or walk from the Waiheke ferry terminal.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Good Home

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with options to cater to any palate before your road trip.
Auckland.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive through beautiful countryside to reach the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Via State Highway 1 and SH 5, roughly 228 km.
NZD 0, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Pig and Whistle

Refuel over classic New Zealand pub fare at this charming heritage pub.
Located in downtown Rotorua.
NZD 35, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal parks and get a glimpse of Maori culture with a guided tour.
5-minute drive from The Pig and Whistle.
NZD 50, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy contemporary New Zealand cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
A 5-minute drive from Te Puia.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Explore Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Scope Restaurant

Delight in a lovely breakfast using fresh, local produce just a stone's throw from the lake.
Located near Lake Rotorua.
NZD 40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Marvel at one of the most colorful and unique geothermal parks in New Zealand.
25-minute drive from the restaurant.
NZD 35, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Kuirau Park

Have a picnic lunch in this free park with bubbling mud pools and a geothermal footbath.
5-minute drive from Wai-O-Tapu.
NZD 20, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the hot mineral pools while overlooking Lake Rotorua, a perfect way to rejuvenate.
Short drive or 10-minute walk from Kuirau Park.
NZD 70, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Experience an exciting range of international and local food stalls in a vibrant atmosphere.
Very close to Polynesian Spa.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Taupo and Nature

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Jolly Good Fellows

Enjoy a warm breakfast before your journey to Taupo with great coffee and local ingredients.
Rotorua.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Taupo

Take a scenic 1-hour drive to the stunning Lake Taupo, known for its watersports and scenic beauty.
Via State Highway 5.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the spectacular waterfalls and take stunning photos at this must-see natural attraction.
10-minute drive from Taupo town center.
NZD 0, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Hydro Eatery

Savor a meal with a view over Lake Taupo at this cozy café.
Located in Taupo town.
NZD 35, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise around the magical scenery and Maori rock carvings.
Departure from Taupo boat harbor.
NZD 50, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The BX

End the day with mouth-watering burgers and sides at this popular local eatery.
Short drive or 20-minute walk from Taupo boat harbor.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 6: Drive to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lake Taupo Hole in One

Start your day at this unique café with lake views and famous for the target golf hole challenge.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Wellington

Enjoy a beautiful 4-hour drive through the volcanic landscapes towards the capital.
Via State Highway 1, through some scenic routes.
NZD 0, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Fidel's Café

Chill at this vibrant café with excellent brunch options to savor your time in Wellington.
Close to the city center.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Wander through New Zealand's national museum, showcasing art, history, and culture.
Located nearby Fidel's Café.
NZD 0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in award-winning cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients in an elegant setting.
Short walk from Te Papa Museum.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Beautiful Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hangar

Start your morning with a delightful breakfast focused on locally-sourced ingredients in the heart of Wellington.
Located near the airport.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Fly to Nelson

Catch a short flight to Nelson for stunning coastal scenery and sunny vibes.
Wellington Airport to Nelson Airport.
NZD 150, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Hanging Basket

Indulge in a delicious meal at this charming café known for fresh, high-quality food.
Located in Nelson's city center.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit the Nelson Market

Stroll this lively market filled with local crafts, fresh produce, and food stalls.
Very close to The Hanging Basket.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Dinner at Flavour

Unwind with modern dishes that highlight local produce, served in a cozy atmosphere.
Short drive or 15-minute walk from the market.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Sprig and Fern Tavern

Enjoy a hearty meal at this local favorite with a selection of breakfast options.
Nelson.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Embark on a beautiful 1-hour drive to one of New Zealand's most stunning coastal parks.
Via State Highway 60.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience the beauty of the park from the water as you kayak through breathtaking bays.
Bookings should be made in advance.
NZD 100, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Park Café

Enjoy a scenic lunch at the café located within the park, with a backdrop of pristine nature.
Located within Abel Tasman National Park.
NZD 30, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Short Walk in Abel Tasman

Take a leisurely walk on one of the many trails and explore the stunning landscapes.
Entry points are well-marked.
NZD 0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Harbourside Restaurant

Relax after a long day with fresh seafood and local specialties along the bay.
Drive back to Nelson for dining.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Journey to Greymouth

Greymouth, New Zealand

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Vic Brewbar

Kickstart your day with great coffee and a hearty breakfast in the local atmosphere.
Nelson.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Greymouth

Embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive through the stunning landscapes of the West Coast.
Via State Highway 6, enjoying the views along the way.
NZD 0, 3.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Speight's Alehouse

Taste local flavors and hearty meals in this rustic pub environment.
Located in Greymouth's town center.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit the Monteith's Brewing Company

Take a tour of this renowned brewery and sample some of New Zealand’s finest craft beers.
5-minute drive from the lunch spot.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Dinner at The Wharf Coffee & Bakery

Enjoy a casual dinner with freshly baked goods at this delightful spot by the coast.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 10: Franz Josef Exploration

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Revive Café

Fuel up with a fresh breakfast and coffee before heading to the glaciers.
Greymouth.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Travel a scenic 2-hour drive along the coast and through lush rainforests.
Via State Highway 6.
NZD 0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Landing

Delight in fresh, locally sourced cuisine at this charming café.
Located in Franz Josef.
NZD 35, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Embark on a guided walk that takes you to the foot of this stunning glacier with its majestic views.
Tours depart from the main village.
NZD 150, 3.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The White Pub Café

Unwind with a cozy dinner filled with delicious pub classics after a long day of exploring.
Located nearby in Franz Josef.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 11: Queenstown Adventures

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Bakery

Treat yourself to freshly baked goods and coffee to kickstart your Queenstown adventure.
Franz Josef.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Queenstown

Take a stunning 4-hour drive through contours and hills, filled with mountainous backdrops.
Via State Highway 6.
NZD 0, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Ferg Burger

Taste the iconic burgers at one of Queenstown's most famous eating spots.
Located in Queenstown's bustling center.
NZD 35, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Skyline Gondola Experience

Rise high above Queenstown for panoramic views of the region and enjoy activities like luge rides.
Located near the town center.
NZD 50, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Dine in sophistication with contemporary dishes that highlight local produce in a stylish setting.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from the gondola.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Milford Sound Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00 AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Start early with freshly made breakfast options and coffee for the long journey ahead.
Queenstown.
NZD 30, 1 hour

7:00 AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Hit the road for a 4-hour scenic drive showcasing some of the best of New Zealand's landscapes.
Via Te Anau, State Highway 94.
NZD 0, 4 hours

11:00 AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Explore the stunning Fjords of Milford Sound on a boat cruise, spotting seals and waterfalls.
Departure from the Milford Sound visitor center.
NZD 80, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Enjoy your meal with a view, surrounded by nature, after a fantastic cruise on the waters.
Located at the Milford Sound visitor center.
NZD 35, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Return to Queenstown, stopping at picturesque viewpoints along the way.
Backtracking the scenic route.
NZD 0, 4 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Cow

Savor a welcoming ambiance with traditional pizza and pasta, a post-adventure delight.
Located in the Queenstown center.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 13: Relax in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Good Spot

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast after your adventures in Queenstown.
Queenstown.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu towards Wanaka.
Via State Highway 84.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Lake Wanaka

Walk along the picturesque lake with stunning mountain views and the famous Wanaka Tree.
Easily accessible from the Wanaka township.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Cow

Dine at this hidden gem featuring a warm ambiance and delicious Italian cuisine.
In Wanaka town center.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Rippon Vineyard

Enjoy a wine tasting amidst the breathtaking views of the vineyard against a mountain backdrop.
A short drive from the town center.
NZD 25, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Kika

Experience an innovative dining experience with local produce and a fantastic wine selection.
Easily walkable from Rippon Vineyard.
NZD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 14: Departure to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Aloha Café

Enjoy breakfast with a beach vibe and fresh ingredients before your departure.
Wanaka.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Christchurch

Take a scenic 5-hour drive across islands and plateaus for your final stop.
Via State Highway 1, enjoy the beautiful landscape.
NZD 0, 5 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Riverside Market

Sample diverse meals from local vendors in the city's thriving market atmosphere.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the tranquility.
Located near the city center.
NZD 0, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Conclude your journey with a memorable dinner featuring fresh and seasonal dishes in a historic setting.
Close to Botanic Gardens.
NZD 75, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your auckland, south new zealand Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go