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 Nature Adventure in New Zealand

Viewed by 114 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Begin your day with panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower, giving you an incredible overview of the beautiful landscape.
Take a short walk from your hotel to the Sky Tower.
NZD 32, 2 hours

10:30AM

Auckland Domain Park Walk

Stroll through the Auckland Domain, one of the city's oldest parks featuring beautiful gardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Drive or take public transport to the Auckland Domain.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Enjoy a fresh French-inspired meal at La Cigale, known for its vibrant atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients.
Drive from the park to La Cigale.
NZD 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a scenic ferry ride to Waiheke Island, where you can relax on the beaches or explore local vineyards.
Catch the ferry from Downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island.
NZD 42, 5 hours (including ferry time)

7:00PM

Dinner at Mudbrick

Savour a delightful dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard with stunning views and gourmet dishes.
Drive to Mudbrick from the ferry terminal on Waiheke.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Caving Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Waitomo

Set off early to Waitomo, famous for its remarkable glowworm caves that sparkle like stars.
Drive south from Auckland to Waitomo, approximately 2.5 hours.
Free, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Explore the illuminated beauty of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on an underground boat tour.
Join your guided tour at the caves entrance.
NZD 55, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Waitomo Homestead with delicious local dishes.
Drive from the caves to the restaurant.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Black Water Rafting

For a thrilling experience, embark on a black water rafting adventure through the caves.
Head back to the tour operator's office to suit up.
NZD 130, 3.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Huhu Cafe

Wind down with a hearty meal at Huhu Cafe which has a lovely ambiance and local cuisine.
Drive to Huhu Cafe from the previous activity.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 3: Cultural and Geothermal Delights

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy the scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Māori culture.
A short 2 hours drive south.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Discover traditional Māori culture and geothermal wonders including geysers and mud pools.
Follow signs to Te Puia upon arrival in Rotorua.
NZD 50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pavilion

Sample local cuisine while surrounded by gardens at The Pavilion in Te Puia.
On-site dining at Te Puia.
NZD 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Whakarewarewa

Experience the living Māori village and hot springs in Whakarewarewa.
Drive a short distance to Whakarewarewa.
NZD 40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sabroso

Dine in style at Sabroso, offering wonderful tapas and dishes inspired by the Spanish coastal cuisine.
A short drive from Whakarewarewa to Sabroso.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Adventure by the Lake

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Take a scenic 1-hour drive to Taupo, where a stunning lake awaits.
Follow SH1 south to Taupo.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Huka Falls Walkway

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Huka Falls and enjoy the striking turquoise waters.
Follow the walking trail from the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at The Bistro

Recharge at The Bistro, known for its quality coffee and kiwi dishes.
Take a short drive to The Bistro.
NZD 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lake Taupo Activities

Spend the afternoon enjoying activities such as kayaking or fishing on New Zealand's largest lake.
Book a water activity at one of the rental shops on the lake shore.
NZD 80, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Ploughman

Indulge in a delicious meal at The Ploughman featuring local produce and a great selection of wines.
A short drive from the lake back to the restaurant.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Great Mountain Views

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Begin your day with a stunning drive to Tongariro National Park, renowned for its volcanic landscapes.
Drive approximately 1 hour to Tongariro National Park.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on one of the world's best one-day treks, traversing diverse terrains and volcanic landscapes.
Start at the Mangatepopo car park.
Free, 7 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Park Cafe

After your trek, relax with a hearty meal at The Park Cafe, offering warming comfort food.
Drive from the trek's endpoint to the cafe.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 6: Capital City Scenic

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel to Wellington, the capital city known for its vibrant arts scene, museums, and stunning harbour.
Drive approximately 4 hours south to Wellington.
Free, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fidel's Cafe

Relax at Fidel's Cafe, famous for its award-winning brunch and coffee in the city.
Find Fidel’s Cafe in the Cuba Street area.
NZD 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, where engaging exhibits tell the story of the land and its people.
Head to Te Papa, located on the waterfront.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take the Cable Car

Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanical Gardens with lovely views of the city.
Purchase tickets at the cable car station.
NZD 9, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Bank

Finish your day with dinner at The Old Bank, set in a historic building and offering exceptional local dishes.
Walk to The Old Bank from the cable car.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Scenic Coast and Wine

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel to Nelson, known for its vibrant arts scene and nearby wine regions.
Drive approximately 2 hours northwest towards Nelson.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Nelson Market

Explore local crafts and fresh produce at the Nelson Market, ideal for snagging unique souvenirs.
Find the market in the city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hopgood's

Indulge in a refreshing meal at Hopgood's, where fresh ingredients take centre stage.
Take a short drive from the market to Hopgood's.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Wine Tasting in Marlborough

Take an afternoon trip to Marlborough region for renowned wine tasting experiences at several wineries.
Drive from Nelson to Marlborough, about 1 hour away.
NZD 50, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Boat Shed

End your day at The Boat Shed, enjoying a seafood feast overlooking the water.
Drive back to Nelson for dinner.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Coastal Adventure

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Abel Tasman

Head to Abel Tasman National Park for a day filled with coastal trails, native forests, and golden beaches.
The drive from Nelson takes about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Abel Tasman Coastal Track

Embark on the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track while soaking in breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Start from the Park entrance.
Free, 6 hours (full day hike)

4:30PM

Lunch on the Track

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Find a scenic spot on the track.
NZD 15, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

After returning from your hike, enjoy entrees and burgers at The Fat Tui, a local food truck known for great taste.
A short drive back from Abel Tasman.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Wild Coast Explorations

Punakaiki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Punakaiki

Set out for Punakaiki, known for its spectacular Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
Drive approximately 3 hours along the scenic coast.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Pancake Rocks Walk

Walk along the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and gaze at the unique limestone formations and blowholes.
Start from the car park at Pancake Rocks.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Punakaiki Tavern

Enjoy a hearty meal with beautiful ocean views at the Punakaiki Tavern.
A short drive or walk to the pub.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Paparoa National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking and experiencing the rich biodiversity of Paparoa National Park.
Access via several trailheads in the park.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Warehouse Cafe

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Warehouse Cafe, with ingredients sourced from local farms.
Drive back to the cafe near Punakaiki.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Punakaiki

Day 10: Glacial Wonders

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Travel south to Franz Josef, home to stunning glaciers and lush rainforests.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Punakaiki.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take a guided walk to the terminal face of the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier.
Book your tour before at a local operator.
NZD 130, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Dine at The Landing Cafe with delightful meals and fantastic glacier views.
Drive a short distance from the glacier walks.
NZD 40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind after your hike in the soothing hot pools surrounded by native bush.
Just a short drive to the hot pools.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The White Pub

Finish the day with classic pub fare at The White Pub; enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and hearty meals.
Drive a short distance back into town.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 11: Scenic Views and Lakes

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Set off for Wanaka, known for its stunning lake surrounded by mountains.
Drive approximately 3 hours from Franz Josef.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Lake Wanaka

Explore the lakeside area and enjoy stunning views of the volcanic mountains.
Access various viewpoints along the lake.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Relishes Cafe

Have a delicious lunch at Relishes Cafe, known for its seasonal menu and infused flavours.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wanaka Tree

Take a walk to the famous Wanaka Tree, one of New Zealand's most photographed trees.
A short walk from the lakefront.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Tandoori Palace

End the day with a unique Indian meal at Tandoori Palace, where spices come alive.
Drive to Tandoori Palace from the lake.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 12: Adventure Playground

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Travel to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand.
A brief drive of about 1 hour from Wanaka.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Queenstown

Experience breathtaking views of Queenstown from the Skyline gondola, where you can also try luging.
Access the gondola from the city centre.
NZD 44, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Grab an iconic burger from Fergburger, a must-try in Queenstown.
Located centrally in Queenstown.
NZD 18, 1 hour

1:30PM

Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Set off on a breathtaking scenic cruise of Milford Sound, known for its stunning fjords.
Drive to the cruise terminal approximately 1 hour from Queenstown.
NZD 110, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cow

Relax with a hearty meal at The Cow, known for its rustic setting and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Drive back to central Queenstown.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 13: Fiordland Magic

Milford Sound, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive back to Milford Sound

Make your way back to Milford Sound for more breathtaking exploration of this natural wonder.
Drive about 1.5 hours from Queenstown.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Kayaking in Milford Sound

Experience the fjords up close with a kayaking adventure, taking in the serene beauty of Milford Sound.
Meet your kayaking tour operator upon arrival.
NZD 110, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Cafe

Refuel at the Milford Sound Cafe with warm meals and drinks to recharge.
Located in the Milford Sound area.
NZD 30, 1 hour

3:30PM

Boat Cruise through the Fjords

Take a scenic boat tour through the fjords, spotting wildlife and enjoying picturesque views.
Book a tour at the docks.
NZD 60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Landing

End your day with dinner at The Landing, offering modern cuisine in a breathtaking setting.
Return to your accommodation in Milford Sound.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Nature's End

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Make your way to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
A short drive from Milford Sound, approximately 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you can see thousands of glowworms lighting up the cave walls.
A short drive to the cave entrance.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Redcliff Cafe

Savour local produce and delicious meals at Redcliff Cafe, overlooking the lake.
Drive back to the cafe close to the lakeside.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Fiordland National Park

Spend your final day exploring the stunning landscape of Fiordland National Park with various trails and walks.
Access multiple trails from Te Anau.
Free, 4 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savour an exquisite farewell dinner at The Fat Duck, known for its fine dining and local delicacies.
Drive back to the restaurant from your day’s activities.
NZD 75, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About New Zealand

Trip Packing List: New Zealand (Late February — Summer, warm days, cooler nights)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: New Zealand in Winter (June–August)
Packing List
New Zealand Weather in June: A Guide to the Kiwi Winter
Weather Guide
New Zealand Weather Guide: Year-Round Climate & Local Insights
Weather Guide
Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting New Zealand
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your New Zealand Trip

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