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14-Day Adventure and Nature Itinerary in New Zealand

Viewed by 82 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Vista

Kickstart your day with a delightful breakfast featuring fresh New Zealand ingredients at La Vista, offering stunning views of the harbor.
La Vista is located at the Auckland Waterfront, easily accessible.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sky Tower

Ascend to the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and beyond, capturing stunning vistas of Auckland.
Head to Victoria Street West, which is a short 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk.
NZD 32, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Orbit 360°

Enjoy a unique dining experience in the revolving restaurant at the top of the Sky Tower.
Located within the Sky Tower itself for convenience.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Auckland Domain

Stroll through Auckland's oldest park, featuring beautiful gardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
A 15-minute drive from the Sky Tower.
NZD 15 - Museum Entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Glass Boat

Dine on fine seafood while watching the sunset over the Waitemata Harbour.
A 12-minute drive from Auckland Domain.
NZD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom Tom Bar & Eatery

Indulge in a breakfast of eggs benedict with locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Greater Auckland.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to the famous vineyard-laden Waiheke Island, perfect for wine lovers.
Ferry terminal is 10 minutes from central Auckland.
NZD 42 (ferry), 5 hours including wine tastings

3:00PM

Relax at Mission Bay

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront at Mission Bay, one of Auckland’s beautiful beaches.
Return to Auckland by ferry, then drive 15 minutes to Mission Bay.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pocket Kitchen

Savor comforting dishes at this popular eatery known for its local faves.
A 10-minute drive from Mission Bay.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before leaving for Rotorua.
Enjoy your stay and meal at your Auckland hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Take the scenic drive from Auckland to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture.
It's a 3-hour drive on the State Highway 1.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Explore the outdoor eating area filled with vibrant restaurants and grab a bite to eat.
Located in the heart of Rotorua, easy to find.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Experience the geothermal landscapes and Maori culture at Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu geyser.
A short 10-minute drive from Eat Streat.
NZD 70, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a New Zealand twist on international flavors.
Just a quick 5-minute drive from Te Puia.
NZD 60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Explore Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lady Jane's

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local produce at this charming spot.
Located near the Rotorua Arts Village.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore the colorful geothermal landscapes with bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes.
It's a 30-minute drive south of Rotorua.
NZD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mud Club

Delight in unique baked goods inspired by the surrounding geothermal landscapes.
On-site at Wai-O-Tapu.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Kuirau Park

Enjoy strolling through this geothermal park and soaking in free hot pools.
Return to Rotorua, only 10 minutes away.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Eat Street

Head back to Eat Street for diverse dining options; explore other restaurants in the area.
Short drive from Kuirau Park.
NZD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Travel to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your Rotorua hotel before traveling to Wellington.
Enjoy the meal before you leave.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Embark on the scenic drive to Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand.
It's approximately a 5-hour drive via State Highway 1.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Fidel's Café

Enjoy a funky café atmosphere with hearty sandwiches and delicious coffee.
Located in Cuba Street, Wellington.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Discover New Zealand’s national museum with interactive exhibits and stunning galleries.
Located near the waterfront.
FREE (donation recommended), 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Experience fine dining using local ingredients in a beautifully restored church setting.
Just a short 10-minute walk from Te Papa.
NZD 120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: Explore Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Savor a leisurely breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a full day ahead.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cable Car to Kelburn

Travel by cable car to Kelburn for breathtaking views of the city and harbor.
Cable car station is a 10-minute walk from your hotel.
NZD 7 each way, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wellington Botanic Garden

Wander through stunning gardens filled with native and exotic species.
Located atop the Kelburn cable car station.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Chocolate Fish Café

Dig into delicious casual meals at this waterfront café overlooking the marina.
Drive or take a bus; approximately a 15-minute journey.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Zealandia Eco Sanctuary

Explore New Zealand's wildlife and flora in this unique eco-sanctuary.
It's a 10-minute drive from The Chocolate Fish.
NZD 23, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood with a local twist at this cozy restaurant.
A quick 15-minute drive from Zealandia.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Travel to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Wellington at your hotel.
Included in your stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Depart Wellington and head to Nelson, known for its art, food, and stunning beaches.
A picturesque 2-hour drive including a ferry ride across Cook Strait.
NZD 60 (ferry included), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Styx

Relish in European-inspired cuisine and local ingredients in this quaint cafe.
Located in the heart of Nelson.
NZD 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Nelson Market

Visit the vibrant market to experience local crafts, produce, and baked goods.
A 10-minute walk from The Styx.
FREE, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's

Treat yourself to a refined dining experience with the freshest seafood and fine wines.
Just a short 5-minute drive from the market.
NZD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Adventure in Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at your hotel

Have an early breakfast to kickstart your adventure in Abel Tasman.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman

Take the 1-hour scenic drive to the national park, renowned for its coastal trails.
Grab your gear and drive directly to the park.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 1 hour

8:30AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Engage in a kayak adventure exploring hidden coves and beaches from the water.
Kayak rental stations are available within the park.
NZD 80, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a scenic lunch surrounded by nature; prepare a packed meal before heading out.
Choose a spot near a beach or on a lookout.
NZD 20 (for supplies), 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hiking in the National Park

Hit the trails to discover stunning sceneries and wildlife on your chosen route.
Hiking trails start from various points in the park.
FREE, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Golden Bear

Savor a delicious meal featuring local ingredients at this cozy restaurant.
Drive back to Nelson, approximately 1 hour.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 9: Travel to Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Franz Josef Glacier.
Included in your stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Travel through breathtaking scenery on your way to the majestic glacier region.
Approximately a 6-hour drive, filled with nature's beauty.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Grab a quick and delicious bite at this welcoming local eatery.
Located in Franz Josef, right near your accommodation.
NZD 30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Glacier Valley Walk

Embark on a scenic walk to experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier up close.
Start from the visitor center just 5 minutes away.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Glacial Restaurant

Indulge in a lovely dining experience with mountain views and local cuisine.
Only a short walk from the walk's endpoint.
NZD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 10: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

7:00AM

Early Breakfast

Fuel up on a delicious breakfast at your hotel before moving on to Queenstown.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy the spectacular drive to Queenstown, known for its adventure sports.
Approximately a 4-hour drive with stunning views.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Sink your teeth into a famous gourmet burger from this popular spot.
Located in the heart of Queenstown.
NZD 25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Glenorchy Day Trip

Take a scenic drive to Glenorchy and experience breathtaking landscapes.
It's an hour's drive from Queenstown.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 3 hours

4:30PM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Ascend to Bob's Peak for stunning views and possibly bungee jumping!
Return to Queenstown and head directly to the gondola.
NZD 50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy panoramic views and a gourmet dinner at this fine dining restaurant.
Located at the top of the gondola.
NZD 100, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Exploring Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Queenstown Bakery

Grab a fresh pastry and coffee to fuel up for your adventure-filled day.
A short walk from most accommodations in Queenstown.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience an adrenaline rush with a thrilling jet boat ride through the beautiful Shotover River canyon.
Drive to the jet boat pick-up location, approximately 30 minutes away.
NZD 145, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arrowtown

Visit the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown, filled with charming streets and shops.
A 30-minute drive from the jet boat location.
FREE, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Postmaster's Green

Enjoy traditional Kiwi cuisine in a relaxing setting within Arrowtown.
Located centrally in town.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley

Discover some of New Zealand’s best wines at local wineries in Gibbston Valley.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Arrowtown.
NZD 50, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Savor exquisite dishes with a cozy ambiance in this unique dining location.
Drive back to Queenstown, a quick 30 minutes.
NZD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Travel to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast at your Queenstown hotel.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Head to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
A scenic 2-hour drive on State Highway 94.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Journey into a magical underground world illuminated by thousands of glowworms.
Cave tours start at the Te Anau Lake shores.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Enjoy a warm atmosphere and adventurous dishes at this popular eatery.
Located near Lake Te Anau.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Lake Te Anau Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque lake, soaking in the stunning surroundings.
Start from The Fat Duck, walk the lakeside path.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Red Cliff Café

Dine at this charming café featuring local ingredients cooked to perfection.
Just 5 minutes away from Lake Te Anau.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 13: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast at your Te Anau hotel so you are energized for the day ahead.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Set off early to enjoy a scenic drive to one of the world’s most stunning natural attractions.
The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, surrounded by dramatic fjords.
Cruise departs from the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Milford Sound

Disembark and take short walks to enjoy stunning views and photo opportunities.
Walks are accessible near the terminal.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic at Milford Sound

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by incredible scenery.
Find a scenic spot near the terminal.
NZD 20 (for supplies), 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive back to Te Anau

Head back after your amazing encounter with Milford Sound.
The return drive is a scenic route.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Dinner at your hotel

Savor a relaxed evening dinner back at your hotel after a long day.
Dinner is served at the hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Travel to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Complete your New Zealand adventure with a farewell breakfast at your Te Anau hotel.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Make your way to Christchurch for the last leg of your journey.
A scenic 6-hour drive, so start early.
FREE (transportation cost already accounted), 6 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Bicycle Thief

Enjoy modern New Zealand cuisine with a creative twist.
Located near the city center.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the city.
Drive or walk to the gardens from lunch, only a few minutes away.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Roots Restaurant

Savor the last dinner of your journey featuring foraged and locally sourced ingredients.
Located in the heart of Christchurch.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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