9-Day Adventure Nature Itinerary for New Zealand South Island

Day 1: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ferg Bakery

Begin your day with a tasty pastry and coffee at this iconic bakery, celebrated for its delicious pies.
Conveniently located in the heart of Queenstown, easily accessible on foot.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Glenorchy Road Scenic Drive

Take a picturesque drive along Lake Wakatipu, enjoying breathtaking views as you head towards Glenorchy.
Approximately a 45-minute drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Glenorchy Café

Savour homemade pies and fresh salads with stunning views of the lake.
Located right in Glenorchy.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through the scenic 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 stunning views accompanied by delicious meals at the top of the gondola.
Gondola station is a short walk from Queenstown downtown.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Relish a gourmet breakfast at this popular café, famous for its fresh local produce.
Located in Queenstown, perfect before your drive.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Enjoy a scenic drive through mesmerizing landscapes toward the charming town of Te Anau.
About a 2-hour drive south from Queenstown via SH94.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience a magical journey exploring the glowworm caves, where tiny luminous creatures illuminate the dark.
Tours depart from the Te Anau Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre.
NZD100, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sandfly Café

Enjoy a delectable lunch featuring local ingredients amidst views of Lake Te Anau.
Located by the waterfront.
NZD30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Fiordland National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking one of the nearby trails, fully immersing yourself in the park's stunning landscapes.
Access trails from the town centre.
NZD0, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Redcliff Café

Savor steak or fresh seafood at this inviting café with breathtaking lake views.
Situated in Te Anau, an easy walk from your accommodation.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 3: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast and Departure

Grab a quick breakfast at your accommodation or a coffee and muffin from a local café before the day begins.
Quick stop at the Café at the Park.
NZD10, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Enjoy a beautiful drive through winding mountain roads, arriving at Milford Sound by mid-morning.
1.5-hour drive from Te Anau.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Set sail on a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, amidst towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Cruises depart from the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD160, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Sit down to a tasty lunch with incredible views before heading back to Te Anau.
Located near the terminal.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Enjoy the same stunning scenery on your return journey, taking time to capture memories along the way.
Next stop on your return route.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike in Fiordland National Park

Spend the afternoon on an easy hike in Fiordland, enjoying the serene surroundings and breathtaking vistas.
Access trails from the town centre.
NZD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

End your exciting day with a delicious farm-to-table meal, 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 healthy breakfast with smoothies and granola bowls before your drive to Wanaka.
Café located in Te Anau.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Make the scenic drive from Te Anau to Wanaka, with glorious mountain views guiding your way.
About a 2-hour drive via SH94.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Lake Wanaka

Stroll along Lake Wanaka's shores, where you can swim or simply take in the serene beauty.
Located at Lake Wanaka.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Pizza Company

Dive into delicious pizzas at this cozy mountain-style restaurant.
Back towards Wanaka town centre.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike Roy's Peak Track

Challenge yourself with this hike, rewarded with breathtaking summit views.
Trailhead is a short drive from Wanaka.
NZD0, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

Savour a fine dining experience with seasonal dishes in a contemporary setting.
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

Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast before embarking on your drive to Franz Josef.
Located in Wanaka.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Take in breathtaking landscapes on your drive to Franz Josef, allowing for picture stops along the way.
Take SH6 for about 3 hours.
NZD0, 3 hours

11:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Experience a guided walk on the magnificent Glacier, witnessing unique ice formations.
Guided tours start at the visitor centre.
NZD130, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Recharge with a delightful lunch focused on local produce and fresh flavours.
Located in the Franz Josef township.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Glacier Hot Pools

Relax in the natural hot pools surrounded by rainforest, the perfect way to unwind after a thrilling day.
Just a short drive from the town centre.
NZD60, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Alice May

Finish your day with hearty dinners at this well-loved restaurant offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
Located in Franz Josef, within easy reach.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Hokitika & The West Coast

Hokitika, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Treetops

Delight in a healthy breakfast and fresh fruit while soaking in the scenic views.
Conveniently located in Franz Josef.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Enjoy the stunning coastal drive along the West Coast before arriving in Hokitika.
Approximately a 2-hour ride via SH6.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Hokitika Gorge

Marvel at the vibrant blue waters and lush forest in the beautiful Hokitika Gorge.
Located a short drive from town.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hokitika Café

Savor innovative local cuisine in this popular café.
Café situated 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.
Pounamu shops are located throughout the town centre.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hokitika Beach

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

7:00PM

Dinner at The Greenstone

Savor a seasonal menu offering fresh produce and seafood at this local favourite.
Located in Hokitika’s town centre.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 7: Explore Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stumpers Bar & Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Lake Tekapo.
Café conveniently located in Hokitika.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Enjoy a picturesque drive to Lake Tekapo, filled with beautiful landscapes along the way.
About a 3-hour drive via SH73.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Explore Lake Tekapo

Stroll along the shores of the turquoise lake, taking in the striking surroundings.
Lake Tekapo is easily navigable.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Deli

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

3:30PM

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Experience the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, with its stunning backdrop of Lake Tekapo and mountains.
Located right on the lakeside.
NZD0, 1 hour

4:30PM

Stargazing at Mount John Observatory

Visit Mount John Observatory to take in the breathtaking views or join a stargazing tour in one of the world's best dark sky reserves.
Short drive from Lake Tekapo.
NZD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mackenzie's Restaurant

Dine on hearty meals featuring local produce in a friendly atmosphere.
Located in Lake Tekapo.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 8: Mount Cook Adventures

Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Lake Restaurant

Enjoy a fresh breakfast at Blue Lake Restaurant with wonderful views of Mount Cook.
Located in Lake Tekapo.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Travel to Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by striking alpine scenery.
Approximately a 1-hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hiking at Mount Cook National Park

Explore the enchanting trails like the famous Hooker Valley Track, showcasing stunning views of Mount Cook.
Access trails from the visitor centre.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hermitage Hotel

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hermitage, featuring local flavours and scenic backdrops.
Located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Learn about the famous explorer's connection to Mount Cook and admire the exhibits showcasing the area's natural wonders.
Located in the Hermitage Hotel building.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mountaineer

Savour a delicious dinner while enjoying the panoramic views of the mountains.
Conveniently located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 9: Return to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mountaineer

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast while soaking in the last stunning views of Mount Cook.
Located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Queenstown

Make your way back to Queenstown, cherishing the memories of your adventure.
Approximately a 3-hour drive via SH8.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pub on the Wharf

Relax and enjoy a hearty lunch with fantastic views of Lake Wakatipu.
Located close to the Queenstown waterfront.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Last-minute Shopping

Explore local boutiques and shops for souvenirs before you conclude your trip.
Within walking distance from lunch location.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wrap Up with a Scenic Lake Cruise

End your adventure with a peaceful cruise on Lake Wakatipu, taking in the spectacular views.
Cruises depart from the Queenstown pier.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Departure from Queenstown

As your wonderful journey concludes, head to the airport for your onward journey or next adventure!
Easy access to Queenstown Airport.
NZD0, 0.5 hours
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