9-Day Adventure Nature Itinerary for New Zealand South Island

Day 1: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ferg Bakery

Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee at this famous bakery, known for its iconic pies and baked goods.
Located in the heart of Queenstown, easily accessible by foot.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Glenorchy Road Scenic Drive

Enjoy a breathtaking drive along Lake Wakatipu with stunning views of the mountains, leading to the picturesque village of Glenorchy.
Drive 45 minutes from Queenstown.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Glenorchy Café

Try the homemade pies paired with a fresh salad in this charming café overlooking stunning lake views.
On-site at Glenorchy.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through the stunning Shotover River Canyons.
Return to Queenstown, jet boat departures are close to the town centre.
NZD150, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Skyline Restaurant

Enjoy a scenic gondola ride up to Skyline and savour delightful meals while soaking in panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin.
Gondola station is an easy walk from central Queenstown.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Indulge in gourmet breakfasts at Vudu Café, famous for its fresh produce and homemade treats.
Back at Queenstown, before your drive.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills and picturesque farmland as you head to the charming town of Te Anau.
Just 2 hours south of Queenstown on SH94.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Explore the magical glowworm caves, where tiny luminous creatures create a starry ceiling within the dark caverns.
Tours depart from the Te Anau Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre.
NZD100, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sandfly Cafe

Relax with a light lunch featuring fresh local fare while enjoying views of Lake Te Anau.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Fiordland National Park

Spend your afternoon hiking one of the nearby trails, such as the Lake Te Anau circuit, and immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty.
Access trails from the town centre.
NZD0, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savour a delicious farm-to-table meal at this highly rated restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Located in the heart of Te Anau.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast and Departure

Have a quick breakfast at your accommodation or grab a coffee and muffin to go before the big day ahead.
Quick pit stop at Café at the Park.
NZD10, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a stunning drive through the mountains and lush landscapes, arriving at Milford Sound by mid-morning.
About 1.5 hours drive from Te Anau.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Set sail on a captivating cruise of the naturally stunning Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Cruises depart from the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD160, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Enjoy a light lunch with spectacular views before heading back to Te Anau.
Located nearby the terminal.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Make your way back to Te Anau, taking in the scenery you may have missed on your drive to Milford.
Next stop on your route back.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike in Fiordland National Park

Spend the afternoon on a short hike in Fiordland, soaking in the serene atmosphere and stunning vistas.
Access trails from the town centre.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savour a delicious farm-to-table meal at this highly rated restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Located in the heart of Te Anau.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 4: Relax and Explore Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kai Waho

Enjoy a health-conscious breakfast with delicious smoothies and amazing granola bowls.
Café located in Te Anau before departing.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Make the scenic drive from Te Anau to Wanaka, where majestic mountain landscapes will greet you.
Approximately 2 hours drive via SH94.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Lake Wanaka

Stroll along the shores of Lake Wanaka, taking in the tranquil beauty and perhaps enjoying a swim.
Located at Lake Wanaka.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Pizza Company

Indulge in renowned pizzas, made freshly in a cozy mountain-style setting.
Back towards the town centre of Wanaka.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike Roy's Peak Track

Challenge yourself with a breathtaking hike where the panoramic views at the summit are worth every step.
Trailhead is a short drive from Wanaka.
NZD0, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

Savor an exquisite dining experience that offers a mix of local seasonal dishes with a contemporary twist.
A scenic drive from the trailhead back to Wanaka.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 5: Majesty of Mount Cook

Mount Cook, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients before your drive to Mount Cook.
Located in Wanaka.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Travel through breathtaking landscapes en route to Mount Cook, taking in beautiful views along the way.
Approximately 2.5 hours via SH8.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Hooker Valley Walk

Embark on this stunning walk to Hooker Lake, where you can enjoy views of Mount Cook and glaciers.
Accessed from the Mount Cook village.
NZD0, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Old Mountaineers’ Café

Take in the stunning scenery while savouring contemporary New Zealand cuisine featuring local flavours.
Located in Mount Cook village.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre

Learn more about the Park’s flora, fauna, and geological history through interactive displays.
Just a short walk from the café.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stargazing in Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

As night falls, experience some of the clearest night skies in the world, ideal for stargazing.
Find a suitable spot near Mount Cook village.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria at Mount Cook

Wrap up your day with freshly made pizza, perfect for a cozy dinner after an adventurous day.
Located in Mount Cook village.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Visit Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mountaineers’ Café

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast with stunning vistas of the mountains before your drive to Lake Tekapo.
In Mount Cook village.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Travel to the picturesque Lake Tekapo, known for its striking turquoise waters and mountain backdrop.
Approximately 1 hour drive via SH8.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stargaze at the Mount John Observatory

Visit Mount John Observatory for an incredible opportunity to learn about the stars and the night sky.
Short drive or hike from the lakeside.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lake Tekapo Tavern

Relax and enjoy a lunch with views of the lake and mountains at this popular tavern.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Church of the Good Shepherd

Visit this charming church framed by beautiful scenery and delve into its history.
Located right by the lakeside.
NZD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Lake Tekapo Hot Springs

Unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs while enjoying captivating views of the surrounding landscape.
A short drive from the Church.
NZD50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Greedy Cow

Conclude your day by enjoying hearty dishes featuring local ingredients at this friendly eatery.
Located in Lake Tekapo village.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 7: Journey to Hokitika

Hokitika, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Greedy Cow

Start your day with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for your trip to Hokitika.
In Lake Tekapo village.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Hokitika

Make your way to Hokitika, a charming coastal town known for its jade carving and beautiful sunsets.
Approximately 3 hours drive via SH73.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fat Pipi Pizzas

Enjoy delicious gourmet pizzas and local beverages in this fun and quirky eatery.
Located in Hokitika town centre.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Hokitika Beach

Stroll along the stunning Hokitika Beach, famous for its driftwood and beautiful sunsets.
Short drive or walk from the town centre.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Hokitika Gorge

Discover the breathtaking turquoise waters and striking landscapes of Hokitika Gorge on a short walking trail.
Approx 30 minutes drive from Hokitika.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Savour fresh seafood and local specialties in a lovely setting at this popular restaurant.
Located back in Hokitika.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 8: Adventure in Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hokitika Sandfly

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular café before hitting the road to Arthur's Pass.
Located in Hokitika.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Arthur's Pass

Head towards Arthur’s Pass, home to stunning mountain scenery, and numerous hiking opportunities.
Approximately 1.5 hours drive via SH73.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike the Devil's Punchbowl Track

Embark on a short hike to see the impressive Devil's Punchbowl waterfall, surrounded by lush forest.
Trailhead is easily accessible from the main road.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Arthur's Pass Alpine Lodge

Relax with a hearty lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients in a lovely mountain setting.
Located in the village of Arthur’s Pass.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Arthur's Pass National Park

Spend your afternoon exploring the various trails within the park, immersing yourself in the spectacular wilderness.
Access points located throughout the village.
NZD0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Wobbly Kea Restaurant

Conclude your day with scrumptious New Zealand dining experiences at this popular spot.
Easily located within Arthur’s Pass.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 9: End at Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wobbly Kea Restaurant

Enjoy an energizing breakfast before continuing your journey to Franz Josef.
Within Arthur’s Pass village.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Travel south to Franz Josef Glacier, known for its breathtaking scenery and adventure activities.
Approximately 2 hours drive via SH73.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Embark on a self-guided or guided walk on the glacier, breathing in the pristine alpine air.
Walks can be started from the Franz Josef township.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with a focus on seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Franz Josef township.
NZD35, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind in the warm, natural hot pools surrounded by lush rainforest – a perfect way to relax after your adventurous activities.
A short walk or drive from the town centre.
NZD60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Alice May

Conclude your New Zealand adventure with a hearty dinner at this well-known local eatery offering a mix of Kiwi and international cuisine.
Located in Franz Josef, easily accessible.
NZD70, 2 hours
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