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14-Day New Zealand Adventure: Road Trip, City Experiences & Foodie Delights

Viewed by 129 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

10:00AM

Arrive in Auckland

After settling into your accommodation, embrace the vibrant city atmosphere of Auckland.
Transfer from Auckland Airport to your hotel.
NZD100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Depot

Savor fresh, locally sourced food at Depot, known for its casual vibe and delicious oysters.
A short walk from your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the iconic Sky Tower.
Take the Link Bus (Route 1).
NZD32, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Viaduct Harbour

Stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the atmosphere of restaurants and boats.
Walk from Sky Tower.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Enjoy elegant dining by the water with a diverse menu focusing on fresh seafood.
Short walk from Viaduct.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Federal Delicatessen

Indulge in a hearty Kiwi breakfast featuring fresh bagels and delicious coffee.
Short drive or walk from your hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum

Dive into New Zealand's history and culture through engaging exhibits.
Drive to Domain Drive.
NZD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ahi

Enjoy a local modern approach to New Zealand cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Short drive from the museum.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Take a Ferry to Waiheke Island

Experience the beauty of Waiheke with its vineyards, beaches, and olive groves.
Ferry from Auckland Ferry Terminal.
NZD42, 4 hours including travel and exploration

6:30PM

Dinner at The Oyster Inn

Dine at a beautiful beachfront restaurant showcasing fresh local seafood.
Short drive or walk from the ferry terminal on Waiheke.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Enjoy a light breakfast with fantastic coffee before your journey.
Return to Auckland Ferry Terminal and drive to Rotorua.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set off on the scenic 3-hour drive to Rotorua through stunning landscapes.
Take State Highway 1 and Highway 5.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Explore this vibrant dining precinct known for its diverse culinary offerings.
Drive to Eat Streat from your accommodation.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Witness geothermal wonders and learn about Maori culture at this iconic site.
Short drive from Eat Streat.
NZD66, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Repurposed Barn

Experience farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients and a cozy atmosphere.
Drive from Te Puia.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brantry

Savor a delicious brunch featuring local produce before your drive.
Drive from Rotorua to Taupo.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Drive to Taupo

Hit the road for a beautiful 1-hour drive to Taupo, looking for scenic stops along the way.
Follow State Highway 5.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at the stunning turquoise water and the roar of the powerful falls.
Short drive from Taupo.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Taupo's Lakefront Restaurant

Enjoy a lakeside lunch featuring fresh fish caught in Lake Taupo.
Walk from Huka Falls.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Experience Skydiving

Take the leap with a thrilling tandem skydive and experience unparalleled views of the region.
Drive to Taupo Skydiving Centre.
NZD400, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Jolly Good Fellows

Relax at this cozy pub with a variety of local beers and hearty food.
Easy drive from the skydiving centre.
NZD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Wellington Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sugarloaf

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before departing for Wellington.
Drive from Taupo to Wellington.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wellington

Embark on a scenic 4.5-hour drive to the capital city, taking breaks along the way.
Follow State Highway 1.
Free, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Savor some of the best seafood Wellington has to offer right by the waterfront.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Discover the treasures of New Zealand’s national museum with interactive exhibits.
Short walk from Ortega.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in an exquisite fine dining experience in an elegant Edwardian setting.
Short walk from Te Papa.
NZD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: Wine Tasting in Blenheim

Blenheim, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café L'Affaire

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast with fresh pastries and excellent coffee.
Drive from Wellington to Blenheim.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Drive to Blenheim

Head to the famed Marlborough wine region for a scenic 1.5-hour drive.
Take State Highway 1.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Wine Tasting at Cloudy Bay Vineyards

Enjoy tasting world-renowned wines amidst stunning vineyard landscapes.
Short drive from Blenheim town.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Good Home

Enjoy a seasonal menu with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Blenheim.
Short drive from the vineyards.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Other Wineries

Continue the wine journey with visits to several other boutique wineries in the area.
Drive between selected wineries.
NZD25, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Marlborough Vintners Hotel

Savor gourmet food in a stunning setting overlooking the surrounding vineyards.
Short drive from the wineries.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Blenheim

Day 7: Coastal Wonders in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Store

Start your day with fresh pastries and wholesome breakfast options.
Drive from Blenheim to Kaikoura.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Embark on a beautiful 2-hour journey along the coast to Kaikoura.
Take State Highway 1.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the thrill of seeing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Meet at the Whale Watch Centre.
NZD150, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Kaikoura Seafood BBQ

Feast on fresh crayfish and local seafood right by the ocean.
Short drive from the whale watching.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the stunning coastal trail, keeping an eye out for seals.
Meet at the walk's entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Dine on some of the best local seafood with gorgeous views of the ocean.
Short drive from the walkway.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 8: Charming Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Black Betty Cafe

Start your day with delicious breakfast to fuel your journey ahead.
Drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch.
NZD25, 2 hours

10:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Travel to Christchurch, the main city of the South Island.
Take State Highway 1.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Riverside Market

Explore this vibrant market with a diverse selection of food stalls and local vendors.
Walk from your accommodation.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and take a punting trip along the Avon River.
Short drive or walk from the market.
NZD30 for punting, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Quake City

Learn about the city’s earthquake recovery history through interactive displays.
Short drive from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant

Dine in a stylish location with a wide-ranging menu featuring fresh local produce.
Short drive from Quake City.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 9: Stunning Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Fuel up with a specialty coffee and delicious treats before setting off.
Drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo.
NZD25, 3 hours

10:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Embark on a 3-hour scenic drive through the Canterbury region.
Follow State Highway 8.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Greedy Cow

Enjoy a hearty lunch with wonderful views of the lake and mountains.
Walk from your accommodation.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Discover this iconic stone church set against the backdrop of the stunning lake.
Drive or walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stargazing Experience

Enjoy an unforgettable stargazing experience in this appointed Dark Sky Reserve.
Arrive at the stargazing centre.
NZD90, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Tekapo Springs Cafe

Take in beautiful views while dining on delicious comfort food.
Walk from the stargazing centre.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 10: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the MacKenzie Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with stunning views before heading to Queenstown.
Drive from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown.
NZD25, 3 hours

10:30AM

Drive to Queenstown

Hit the road for a scenic 3-hour journey through breathtaking landscapes.
Go via SH 8 and SH 6.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in the famous Fergburger, one of New Zealand's most renowned gourmet burger spots.
Walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Skyline Gondola Experience

Take a gondola ride to Bob's Peak for magnificent views and adrenaline-filled activities.
Short walk from Fergburger.
NZD45, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and relax by the lake.
Easy walk from the gondola.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Rātā

Experience a fine dining celebration of local fare and modern technique at this award-winning restaurant.
Short drive or walk from the gardens.
NZD110, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Day Trip to Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast prior to an early departure.
Depart from Queenstown to Milford Sound.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Depart to Milford Sound

Set off on a 4-hour drive through spectacular scenery to Milford Sound.
Drive via Te Anau Highway.
Free, 4 hours

11:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Marvel at stunning fjords and waterfalls on a scenic cruise through the sound.
Board at Milford Sound Marina.
NZD140, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of Milford Sound.
Provided as part of the cruise.
Included, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Return via the same scenic route while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Drive back through Te Anau Highway.
Free, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Wind down your day with a comforting meal in this rustic hideaway, famous for its quality dishes.
Drive or walk from your accommodation.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 12: Scenic Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Big Fig

Enjoy a delightful slow-cooked breakfast before moving on to Wanaka.
Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Make the beautiful 1-hour drive to Wanaka along the lake.
Follow Scenic Route 6.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Puzzling World

Experience a fun-filled adventure with optical illusions and a unique maze.
Short drive from Wanaka town centre.
NZD25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Wanaka Gourmet Pizza

Savor delicious gourmet pizzas made with fresh local ingredients.
Short drive or walk from Puzzling World.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Lake Wanaka

Spend some leisure time near the lake, perfect for relaxation or photography.
Walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kika

Indulge in an innovative menu that celebrates seasonal produce and local flavors.
Short drive from the lake.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 13: Cultural Experience in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at a popular local café in Wanaka.
Drive from Wanaka to Dunedin.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dunedin

Take a scenic 1-hour drive to Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage.
Follow SH 1.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Larnach Castle

Explore New Zealand’s only castle, set in stunning gardens overlooking the coastline.
Drive from Dunedin to Larnach Castle.
NZD40, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Larnach Castle Café

Enjoy a delicious light lunch with panoramic views of the gardens.
On-site at Larnach Castle.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Dunedin Street Art

Take a walking tour of Dunedin's celebrated street art, showcasing local talent.
Short drive or walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Esplanade

Dine with wonderful ocean views while enjoying fresh, locally sourced cuisine.
Short walk from the street art tour.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 14: Departure from Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a farewell breakfast in Dunedin before heading back.
Drive from Dunedin to Christchurch.
NZD20, 4 hours

12:00PM

Return to Christchurch

Arrive in Christchurch and prepare for your departure.
Follow State Highway 1.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Light Lunch at the Airport

Grab a light bite at the airport café while reflecting on your trip.
At Christchurch Airport.
NZD30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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