8-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 Redcliff Café

Enjoy steak or fresh seafood in a warm and welcoming atmosphere right by the lake.
Situated in Te Anau, easy to walk to.
NZD60, 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 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: Adventure in Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

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

8:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Travel through breathtaking landscapes en route, making sure to stop and take pictures along the way.
Take the scenic route through SH6, approximately 3 hours.
NZD0, 3 hours

11:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Experience a guided walk on the incredible Glacier, marvelling at the ice formations and unique environment.
Guided tours depart from the visitor centre.
NZD130, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

After your glacier adventure, sit down to a delicious lunch focusing on local produce and great coffee.
Located in Franz Josef.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Glacier Hot Pools

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

6:30PM

Dinner at Alice May

Finish your day 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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Day 6: Hokitika & The West Coast

Hokitika, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Treetops

Enjoy a healthy breakfast served with fresh fruit and homemade recipes while soaking in the nature views.
Conveniently located in Franz Josef.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Enjoy the scenic coastal drive along the West Coast before arriving in Hokitika.
Approximately 2 hours via SH6.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Hokitika Gorge

Explore the stunning Hokitika Gorge with its vibrant blue water, lush forest, and swing bridges – an Instagram-worthy stop.
Just a short drive from town to the gorge.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hokitika Café

Enjoy fresh, local cuisine with an innovative twist at this popular café.
Café located in the town centre.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Discover Hokitika's Pounamu (Greenstone) shops

Explore local jewellery shops specializing in Greenstone, a significant part of Māori culture and traditions.
Pounamu shops are located throughout the town centre.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hokitika Beach

Unwind with a stroll along the stunning beach as the sun sets over the Tasman Sea.
Beach access is a short walk from town.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Greenstone

Dine at this local favourite, known for its seasonal menu focused on fresh produce and seafood.
Located in Hokitika’s town centre.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 7: Lake Tekapo & Mount Cook

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stumpers Bar & Café

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your journey to Lake Tekapo.
Conveniently located in Hokitika.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Take the picturesque drive to Lake Tekapo, ensuring to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
About 3 hours drive via SH73.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Explore Lake Tekapo

Spend some time walking along the shores of this stunning turquoise lake, famous for its clear waters and breathtaking views.
Lake Tekapo is easily accessible.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Deli

Grab a bite at this local deli offering fresh, delicious sandwiches and homemade treats.
Conveniently located near the lake.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive to Mount Cook

Continue on to Mount Cook National Park, where stunning mountain scenery awaits you.
Approximately 1 hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Hiking at Mount Cook National Park

Explore one of the many trails in the park, such as the Hooker Valley Track, offering stunning views of Mount Cook.
Trailheads can be accessed from the visitor centre at Mount Cook.
NZD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hermitage

Indulge in a delicious dinner at the Hermitage Hotel with spectacular views of the mountain range.
Located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mountaineer

Enjoy a hearty breakfast while taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Cook before heading back.
Located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Queenstown

Make your way back to Queenstown, reflecting on the adventures of the past week.
Approximately 3 hours drive via SH8.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pub on the Wharf

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with great views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Located close to the Queenstown waterfront.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend time exploring the local shops and boutiques for souvenirs before your trip concludes.
Walking distance from lunch location.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wrap Up with a Scenic Lake Cruise

Finish your trip with a relaxing lake cruise on Lake Wakatipu, soaking in the stunning views one last time.
Cruises depart from the Queenstown pier.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Departure from Queenstown

As your adventure comes to an end, head to the airport for your onward journey or next adventure!
Convenient access to Queenstown Airport.
NZD0, 0.5 hours
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