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14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in New Zealand: Nature, Culture & Culinary Delights

Viewed by 91 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Explorations

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Experience

Start your journey at Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Take the SkyWalk elevator to the observation deck.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Albert Park Stroll

Afterward, stroll through Albert Park to admire the beautiful gardens and check out the historic art galleries nearby.
A 15-minute walk from Sky Tower.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tom Tom Eatery

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Tom Tom Eatery, famous for its gourmet burgers and fresh local ingredients.
Located near Albert Park.
NZD 80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Waiheke Island

Take a picturesque ferry ride to Waiheke Island for beautiful beaches and art galleries.
Ferry terminal is a 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
NZD 45 round trip, 4 hours including travel time

6:30PM

Dinner at Pocket Bar & Kitchen

End your day with family-style dining at Pocket Bar & Kitchen, offering delicious shared plates.
Return by ferry to Auckland then head to the bar.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Amano

Fuel up for the day at Amano, known for its delicious pastries and locally-sourced breakfast options.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Auckland Zoo

Visit the Auckland Zoo to see over 140 species of animals with family-friendly experiences.
20-minute drive from breakfast spot.
NZD 36 per adult, NZD 10 per child, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Indulge in a French-inspired lunch at La Cigale, featuring fresh local produce and pastries.
5-minute drive from the zoo.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium

Explore the wonders of marine life at Kelly Tarlton's, where kids can walk through underwater tunnels.
20-minute drive from restaurant.
NZD 39 per adult, NZD 20 per child, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Dine at the lively Glass Goose, with its exciting menu suitable for the whole family.
15-minute drive to the restaurant.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Cultural Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set out on a scenic 3-hour drive to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity.
Follow SH1 and then SH5.
Free, 3 hours

11:00AM

Te Puia

Visit Te Puia to see the geysers and learn about Maori culture with interactive exhibits.
10-minute drive from your hotel in Rotorua.
NZD 60 per adult, NZD 30 per child, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Bus Stop

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with classic Kiwi fare at The Bus Stop, perfect after your morning adventure.
Short drive from Te Puia.
NZD 70, 1 hour

3:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk pathway suspended among the towering trees.
10-minute drive from lunch spot.
NZD 35 per adult, NZD 20 per child, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

Head to Eat Streat for a variety of casual dining options that cater to everyone in the family.
5-minute drive nearby.
NZD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Nature Interaction in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Escape Cafe

Savor a hearty breakfast at Escape Cafe known for its local ingredients and inviting atmosphere.
Close to the hotel.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Agrodome Experience

Get hands-on with farm animals at Agrodome while enjoying an entertaining sheep show.
15-minute drive from the cafe.
NZD 40 per adult, NZD 20 per child, 2 hours

11:30AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Take a journey to the astonishing Waitomo Glowworm Caves for a magical underground boat ride.
1-hour drive from Agrodome.
NZD 75 per adult, NZD 40 per child, 3 hours including drive

3:00PM

Late Lunch at the caff at the caves

Grab a quick bite at the cafe located at the Waitomo Caves.
Within the Waitomo Caves site.
NZD 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive to Taupo

Make your way to Taupo, known for its stunning lake and adventure activities.
1-hour drive from Waitomo.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Plateau

Dine at Plateau, offering delicious and locally-sourced cuisine with family-friendly options.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Store House

Begin with a delightful breakfast at The Store House, known for its cozy atmosphere and local produce.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Huka Falls

Visit the stunning Huka Falls, where kids can learn about the power of nature and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
15-minute drive from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lake Taupo Boat Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Taupo, taking in the incredible views and rock carvings.
Return to Taupo Harbor for the cruise start.
NZD 70 per adult, NZD 35 per child, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Flying Fox

Replenish your energy at The Flying Fox, which features homemade pizzas and pasta.
Located near the harbor.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Tongariro National Park

Take a scenic drive to Tongariro National Park for breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly walks.
1-hour drive from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Vinegar Hill

End your day with a meal at Vinegar Hill, famous for its delightful menu suited for families.
30-minute drive back to Taupo.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 6: Nature's Best at Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before a day of adventure.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Scenic Walks in Tongariro

Embark on guided family walks through the breathtaking trails of Tongariro National Park.
Follows routes outlined by your accommodation.
NZD 50 per adult, NZD 25 per child for guided tours., 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tussock Bar & Café

Enjoy a scenic lunch at The Tussock Bar & Café with local cuisine and kid-friendly options.
In the National Park.
NZD 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Take on New Zealand's most popular day hike, suitable for families with a moderate fitness level.
After lunch, follow national park routes.
Free, 5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ruapehu Restaurant

Savor a delicious family meal at Ruapehu, providing local dishes and a warm atmosphere.
Near your overnight accommodation.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 7: Cultural Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel 4 hours to the capital city of Wellington, filled with cultural activities.
Take SH1 southbound.
Free, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Explore Cuba Street for eclectic dining options that showcase Wellington's culinary diversity.
Arrive and park in Cuba Street area.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Te Papa Museum

Dive into New Zealand's history at Te Papa, with engaging exhibits that captivate both kids and adults.
A 10-minute walk from Cuba Street.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Cable Car and Botanic Gardens

Take the famous Wellington cable car to the Botanic Gardens for beautiful views and walks.
Walk to the cable car station.
NZD 10 per adult, NZD 5 per child., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Flora

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Flora, featuring a seasonal menu that caters to all ages.
A short distance from the Botanic Gardens.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 8: Scenic Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Ferry to Picton

Catch a morning ferry from Wellington to Picton, enjoying stunning coastal views.
15-minute drive to ferry terminal.
NZD 50 per adult, NZD 25 per child., 3 hours including check-in

11:30AM

Picton Waterfront

Explore the charming waterfront of Picton, with family-friendly parks and playgrounds.
Short walk from ferry terminal.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Coffee Pot

Dine at The Coffee Pot, a local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and great coffee.
Just a short walk from the waterfront.
NZD 60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Queen Charlotte Track

Begin exploring parts of the stunning Queen Charlotte Track with easy walking trails suitable for children.
Drive or take a shuttle to the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Marlborough Sounds

Enjoy a family dinner on the sunny terrace of a restaurant overlooking Marlborough Sounds.
Return to Picton's waterfront.
NZD 110, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 9: Nature and Adventure in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Make the picturesque drive from Picton to Nelson along the coastline, taking in the views.
Follow signs to Nelson, easy coastal route.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Apple Shed

Grab breakfast at The Apple Shed, offering fresh, locally-sourced produce.
In Nelson's town center.
NZD 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Nelson Market

Visit the local Nelson Market, filled with fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies.
Located in the town centre.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Smugglers Pub

Enjoy casual dining with some local brews at The Smugglers Pub, perfect for families.
Short walk from the market.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Nelson Lakes National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking in the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park, exploring easy trails with beautiful views.
A short drive out of town.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hopgoods Restaurant

Dine at Hopgoods, known for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu with a focus on freshness.
Back in the town centre.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 10: Coastal Discovery in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Begin with breakfast at your accommodation to gear up for a day of adventure.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take a Kayak Tour

Experience the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman with a guided family-friendly kayak tour!
Book in advance for suitable timing.
NZD 90 per adult, NZD 45 per child., 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Awaroa Lodge

After kayaking, enjoy a relaxing lunch at Awaroa Lodge focusing on local cuisine.
Accessible by kayak or a walking trail.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Beach Time at Abel Tasman

Spend your afternoon at one of the pristine beaches within Abel Tasman, swimming, and exploring.
Head to Litter Bay which is a short walk from Awaroa Lodge.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Enjoy some of the best fish burgers at The Fat Tui, perfect for families after a long day.
Drive back to the main road leading to your accommodation.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 11: Christchurch: Urban Pulse

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Set off on a scenic 5-hour drive to Christchurch, the South Island's largest city.
Follow SH6 southwards.
Free, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Savor lunch at Little High Eatery, a vibrant food market with a variety of cuisines to choose from.
An easy drive to the eatery from the highway.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Botanic Gardens

Take a relaxing stroll through the iconic Botanic Gardens of Christchurch.
Short drive or a 25-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Canterbury Museum

Visit the Canterbury Museum to explore its unique collection of natural and cultural artifacts.
Next to the Botanic Gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rydges Latimer

End the day enjoying dinner at Rydges Latimer, perfect for families with a casual dining option.
Located in the heart of the city.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 12: Serenity at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Enjoy the scenic 3-hour drive to Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters.
Follow SH1 and then SH8.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd

Visit the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy the surrounding lakeside views.
Short drive to the lakeside.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Astrophysics Cafe

Enjoy lunch with a view at The Astrophysics Cafe, featuring delicious meals and local coffee.
On the lakefront.
NZD 65, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stargazing Tour

Experience stargazing in one of the world’s darkest skies with a tour that mesmerizes all ages.
Local tour guide will pick you up from the cafe.
NZD 80 per adult, NZD 40 per child., 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Lake Tekapo Tavern

End the day at the family-friendly Lake Tekapo Tavern, serving hearty meals.
Short drive back to the tavern.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 13: Adventure Awaits in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Take a scenic drive of about 3 hours from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown, known as New Zealand's adventure capital.
Follow SH8 and SH6 to Queenstown.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Fergburger

Enjoy the iconic Fergburger for what is hailed as the best burger in New Zealand.
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD 75, 1 hour

1:00PM

Jet Boating Experience

Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling jet boating ride through the Shotover River canyons.
A short walk from Fergburger.
NZD 125 per adult, NZD 90 per child., 2 hours including safety briefing

3:30PM

Skyline Gondola

Take the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views over Queenstown, followed by some time at the Luge.
Short walk from the jet boating location.
NZD 60 per adult, NZD 35 per child for luge rides., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

End the day at The Cow Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious pizzas and pastas in a cozy setting.
Walk back to the restaurant from Skyline.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 14: Majestic Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set out early for a stunning drive to Milford Sound, ensuring you stop along the way to enjoy the scenery.
Take SH94, stopping at picturesque locations.
Free, 2 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise through Milford Sound's breathtaking fiords, making sure to have your camera ready.
Board the cruise at the accommodations harbor.
NZD 80 per adult, NZD 40 per child., 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Red Boat Cafe

Enjoy a light lunch at The Red Boat Cafe with picturesque views of the fiords.
Located at the cruise terminal.
NZD 65, 1 hour

1:00PM

Kayak Tour

Experience Milford Sound more closely with a family-friendly kayak tour through its stunning waters.
Tour option arranged through the cruise company.
NZD 100 per adult, NZD 50 per child., 2 hours

3:30PM

Return Drive to Queenstown

Drive back to Queenstown, reflecting on a memorable end to your New Zealand adventure.
Retrace your route back to Queenstown.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Celebrate the end of your journey with a fantastic farewell dinner at Botswana Butchery, known for its exquisite menu.
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound
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