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Adventure Road Trip Itinerary for South Island New Zealand

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Day 1: Arrive & Explore

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dux Dine

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Dux Dine, famous for its fresh and local produce.
Located in the Riccarton area of Christchurch.
NZD 70, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, where the kids can run free while you soak in the stunning landscapes.
Just a short drive or pleasant walk from Dux Dine.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining experience aboard a vintage tram while taking a scenic tour of the city.
Located in the city center.
NZD 190, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Quake City

Learn about the 2011 earthquake and its impact on Christchurch through engaging exhibits that capture the city’s resilience.
Located in the heart of the city.
NZD 30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casadigna

Wrap up your day with delightful Italian cuisine that kids will love.
Close to the city center.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Scenic Drive

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Collective

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients before heading out.
Located in the city center.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Begin your scenic journey to Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters and lovely landscapes.
Take State Highway 1 to State Highway 8; about a 3-hour drive.
N/A, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Godley Hotel

Enjoy lunch with a view of the lake; try their famous fish and chips.
Located by the lakefront.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Explore the iconic church and take stunning photographs against the lake backdrop.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Enjoy an unforgettable evening under one of the clearest night skies in the world.
Head back to the lakefront for the best views.
NZD 45, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mackenzies Cafe

Unwind with a homely dinner featuring regional dishes.
Located in Lake Tekapo township.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 3: Mount Cook Adventures

Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Red Sled Coffee

Start the day with excellent coffee and delicious options for the whole family.
Located in Lake Tekapo township.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Continue your journey to Mount Cook, where you can witness breathtaking alpine views.
Take State Highway 8 to Mount Cook Road; around a 1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Explore the visitor center and enjoy short walks suitable for families, showcasing stunning scenery.
Access directly from the entrance of the national park.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Old Mountaineers’ Cafe

Savor a delicious meal here while soaking up panoramic views of the mountains.
Located in Mount Cook Village.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Scenic Helicopter Ride

Experience the magnificence of the Southern Alps from above; an unforgettable adventure for the family.
Helicopter tours can be booked in advance near the visitor center.
NZD 600, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Alpine Lodge Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy meal featuring local game and fresh produce at the lodge.
Located in the lodges at Mount Cook Village.
NZD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

Day 4: Queenstown Highlights

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Begin your day with freshly brewed coffee and a selection of homemade pastries.
Located in the heart of Mount Cook Village.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Head south to Queenstown, renowned for its adventure sports and stunning scenery.
Take State Highway 8; about a 3-hour drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Winnie’s Gourmet Pizza Bar

Indulge in delicious gourmet pizzas, perfect for the whole family.
Located near the center of Queenstown.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take a scenic gondola ride to Bob's Peak for breathtaking views and fun activities like luge.
Gondola station is a short walk from the restaurant.
NZD 90, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Queenstown Gardens

Unwind in the beautiful gardens, perfect for the kids to run and explore.
A short walk from the gondola station.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Treat yourself to a hearty dinner with exquisite dishes and a great family atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Queenstown.
NZD 180, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 5: Adventure Day

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yonder

Start with a healthy, delicious breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Jet Boat Ride on the Shotover River

Experience the exhilarating jet boat ride through the stunning canyons - fun for all ages!
Bookings available online or locally in Queenstown.
NZD 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Horse Riding at Deer Park Heights

Enjoy a family-friendly horse riding experience in a stunning setting.
20 minutes drive from Queenstown center.
NZD 250, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Flame Burger

Refuel with gourmet burgers that everyone will love.
Located in the center of Queenstown.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kiwi Birdlife Park

Get up close and personal with New Zealand’s unique wildlife in this family-friendly sanctuary.
Located within walking distance from the town center.
NZD 120, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Experience a cozy, rustic dining atmosphere known for wood-fired pizzas and pasta.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 6: Milford Sound Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at The Pedlars Inn Cafe

Grab an early breakfast before your day trip; perfect for a quick bite.
Located in Queenstown.
NZD 50, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a stunning drive to Milford Sound, filled with scenic stops along the way.
Take State Highway 94; roughly a 2.5-hour drive.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Board a scenic cruise to witness the magnificent fjords and waterfalls; don’t miss the stunning views!
Cruise departures are available at the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 540, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Visitor Centre Café

Enjoy a casual lunch with beautiful views after your cruise.
Located at the visitor centre.
NZD 80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Short Nature Walk

Explore easy walking tracks around Milford Sound to stretch your legs and take in the pristine nature.
Paths available near the visitor centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Enjoy the stunning scenery on the return drive while reminiscing on the adventure.
Return via State Highway 94.
N/A, 2.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Ramen Rangoon

Finish off the day with comforting ramen that the whole family will enjoy.
Located in the center of Queenstown.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 7: Relax in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kika

Start your morning with a cozy breakfast famous for its locally sourced ingredients.
Located near Queenstown.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a picturesque 1-hour drive to Wanaka, known for its beautiful lakes and mountains.
Take State Highway 6.
N/A, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Snap a family photo with the iconic Wanaka Tree standing in the lake; it’s a must-see!
Located at the edge of Lake Wanaka.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Spice Room

Savor delicious Indian cuisine with options that cater to different taste buds.
Located in the town center.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Puzzling World

Challenge your family with this quirky attraction featuring puzzles and illusions; fun for all ages!
Just a short drive from the town centre.
NZD 100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Lake Wanaka

Unwind at the lake, allowing the kids to play while the scenery calms your soul.
Easily accessed from Puzzling World.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ruby's Pizza

Enjoy a family-friendly pizza joint with all the toppings you could want.
Located in Wanaka township.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 8: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Bakery

Grab some fresh pastries and coffee to go before heading out.
In Wanaka township.
NZD 40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Enjoy your 3.5-hour scenic drive to Franz Josef, surrounded by lush rainforest and mountains.
Take State Highway 6.
N/A, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Some homely café food to recharge after your journey.
Locate within Franz Josef village.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take an easy walk to the glacier viewpoint and witness the majestic ice formations.
Trailhead is accessible from the village.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

End the day by soaking in the warm pools surrounded by nature - blissful for the whole family.
Located in Franz Josef village.
NZD 150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Monsoon

Savor delightful Asian fusion cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
Located in the village.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 9: Scenic Drive to Greymouth

Greymouth, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ice Creamery

Start your day with delicious ice cream and snacks to fuel up.
Located in Franz Josef village.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Greymouth

Depart for Greymouth, a picturesque coastal town known for its rich history.
Take State Highway 6; about a 2-hour drive.
N/A, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Greymouth Railway Station

Have a look at this historic railway station and the charming architecture.
Located in the town center.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Monteith's Brewery

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at this brewery with options for kids and adults alike.
Located within the brewery.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Greymouth History House

Dive into the local history and culture of the West Coast region through the informative exhibits.
Located a short drive from the brewery.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Enjoy some downtime at the beach, with opportunities for children to play in the sand.
Drive to the closest beach area in Greymouth.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Fresh 2 Order

Delight in fresh, locally sourced seafood for dinner with a family-friendly ambiance.
Located in Greymouth.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Greymouth

Day 10: Return to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Square Coffee

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast on the go before back to Christchurch.
Located in Greymouth.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Return to Christchurch along the scenic route filled with beautiful landscapes.
Follow State Highway 73; about a 3-hour drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Riverside Market

Explore various food stalls and enjoy a variety of delicious options for all ages.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Learn about the cultural and natural history of the region with interactive exhibits.
Just a short distance from the Riverside Market.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore the Tannery

Stroll through this boutique shopping area with charming shops and cafes.
Located in Woolston suburb.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant

End your road trip with a memorable dinner featuring seasonal dishes made from local produce.
Located in central Christchurch.
NZD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 11: Adventure in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Company

Grab a quick coffee and pastry before heading out on the road.
Located in Christchurch.
NZD 40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Take a scenic drive along the coast to Kaikoura, famous for its marine life.
Follow State Highway 1; about a 2.5-hour drive.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an unforgettable boat tour to witness majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Tours can be booked in advance at the Kaikoura harbor.
NZD 600, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Fresh Seafood Company

Savor fresh, local seafood at a restaurant renowned for its catch.
Located near the harbor.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a scenic walk along the coast, spotting seals and stunning views.
Access the walkway from the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Noosa Beach Cafe

Relax and enjoy a casual meal overlooking the ocean, a perfect end to the day.
Located near the waterfront.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 12: Picton Fun

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kaikoura Bakery

Start your day with some hearty pastries and coffee.
Located in Kaikoura.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Picton

Head to Picton, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, known for stunning scenery.
Follow State Highway 1; about a 2.5-hour drive.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Learn about historic ships and maritime history at this fascinating museum.
Located on the Picton waterfront.
NZD 10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mussel Pot

Delight in fresh mussels and seafood dishes that the whole family can enjoy.
Located in Picton township.
NZD 110, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Snout Point

Take a leisurely walk offering stunning views over the sounds; perfect for a family outing.
Drive to Snout Point trailhead; about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Picton RSA

End your day with a comforting dinner at this community-oriented venue.
Located in Picton.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 13: Return to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Vault

Enjoy one last breakfast at a cozy café before heading to the ferry.
Located in Picton.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Wellington

Cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry, taking in the stunning views.
Depart from Picton ferry terminal.
NZD 200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Wellington Waterfront

Grab lunch near the waterfront at one of the vibrant eateries.
Located along the harbor.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum with fascinating exhibits suitable for all ages.
Located on the waterfront.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Walk Around Oriental Bay

Take a leisurely stroll by the beach, as the kids enjoy the playground.
Short walk from Te Papa.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Conclude your breathtaking journey with a fine dining experience featuring seasonal flavors.
Located in Wellington city.
NZD 200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington
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