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Ultimate Family-Friendly Luxury Road and Rail Trip in New Zealand

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Arrive in Auckland

Start your adventure in this vibrant city known for its stunning harbor views and modern skyline.
Pick up your rental car from the airport.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at The Sugar Club

Indulge in a delicious breakfast with spectacular views of the Auckland skyline.
Located on level 53 of the Sky Tower, a short drive away.
NZD 40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking views from the Sky Tower and enjoy a family-friendly activity at the observation deck.
Just a 5-minute drive from The Sugar Club.
NZD 35 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Auckland War Memorial Museum

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's history, culture, and natural beauty, perfect for the whole family.
A short drive of 10 minutes.
NZD 25 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360

Enjoy a rotating dinner experience at the Sky Tower while taking in the city lights.
Arrange a reservation; located in Sky Tower.
NZD 100 per person, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Drive to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bagel Love

Fuel up with freshly made bagels in a cheerful atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a 3-hour scenic drive filled with lush countryside.
Follow State Highway 1 then State Highway 5 South.
NZD 0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Street

Discover a collection of trendy eateries offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate.
In downtown Rotorua, just a 10-minute drive from your hotel.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore geothermal wonders and see a live Kiwi bird in its natural habitat.
A 15-minute drive from downtown.
NZD 60 per person, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Prince Albert

Enjoy a family-friendly pub meal with local favorites in a casual setting.
Short drive from your hotel.
NZD 70 total, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Explore Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lemon Tree

Savor an incredible breakfast featuring local produce and a brilliant coffee selection.
Located 5 minutes from your hotel.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Tauhara

Hike up for stunning views of Lake Taupo and volcanic landscapes; a family-friendly walk.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
NZD 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taupo Boat Club

Relax with lakeside views while enjoying meals made with local ingredients.
A short drive from Mount Tauhara.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the powerful waterfalls, a short family-friendly walk along scenic paths.
15 minutes from the Boat Club.
NZD 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Vinegar Hill

Indulge in a hearty meal with excellent options for children.
Located downtown Taupo.
NZD 80 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Travel to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Didi’s Food Truck

Grab a quick healthy breakfast from this beloved local spot.
Located near Taupo lakefront.
NZD 15, 30 mins

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Take a scenic 4-hour drive to the capital city, known for its vibrant arts scene and coastal views.
Take State Highway 1 all the way down.
NZD 0, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Explore this eclectic street full of colorful cafes and unique shops; choose whatever looks good.
Cuba Street is the heart of Wellington.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Wellington Cable Car

Take the iconic cable car up to the Botanical Gardens which features stunning views of the city.
Located at the end of Lambton Quay.
NZD 8 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Wander through New Zealand's national museum for a fascinating insight into the culture and history.
A short drive from the cable car station.
NZD 0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Delight in a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights local flavors.
Located on Cuba Street.
NZD 120 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Ferry to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Prefab Eatery

Enjoy a warm, hearty breakfast with locally sourced ingredients.
Just a short drive to the restaurant.
NZD 25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Ferry to Picton

Enjoy the breathtaking views across the Cook Strait on a 3-hour ferry ride.
Ferry terminal located downtown.
NZD 70 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Green Frog Café

Stop by for a light lunch with delicious homemade options.
Located near the Picton Wharf.
NZD 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Picton Harbor

Take a scenic stroll or relax by the harbor, perfect for taking photographs.
Easily accessible from the cafe.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check into Hotel Picton Waterfront

Enjoy luxury accommodations with harbor views.
A short 5-minute walk.
NZD 300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at le Café

Dine on delicious French-inspired cuisine in an intimate atmosphere.
A short walk from your hotel.
NZD 90 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 6: Travel to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Collective

Grab specialty coffee and pastries at this renowned café.
Short drive from your hotel.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nelson

Enjoy a picturesque 2-hour drive along the coastline.
Follow the Queen Charlotte Drive.
NZD 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed

Savor coastal cuisine while enjoying views of the marina.
A short drive from the parking area.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Nelson Market

Explore the lively local market filled with crafts and delicious food stalls.
Located in the city center.
NZD 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into The Sails Nelson

Relax and recharge in this exquisite hotel with fantastic views.
Located 5 minutes from the market.
NZD 250, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hopgood's and Co.

Experience innovative dishes crafted using local and seasonal produce.
Less than 10 minutes away by car.
NZD 120 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 7: Drive to Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Deville

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with regional influences in the bustling café.
Short drive from the hotel.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Witness stunning landscapes on this 4-hour scenic journey through the Southern Alps.
Follow SH6 South.
NZD 0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Refuel with a selection of hearty options at this inviting restaurant.
Located in the village of Franz Josef.
NZD 40 total, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Tours

Join a guided tour to explore the stunning glacier landscapes and ice formations.
Book in advance for this organized excursion.
NZD 200 per person, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The White Pub

Enjoy hearty meals in a cozy pub atmosphere after a day of exploration.
Just a short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 80 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 8: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Kanu

Experience a fusion of flavors inspired by Pacific Islands for breakfast.
Located in downtown Queenstown.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy a scenic 4-hour drive filled with breathtaking views.
Follow State Highway 6.
NZD 0, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Taste one of the world's best burgers at this famous eatery.
Located near Queenstown’s waterfront.
NZD 50 total, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skyline Gondola

Take a gondola ride to the top for stunning panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range.
Short walk from Fergburger.
NZD 45 per person, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Queenstown Gardens

Enjoy a family-friendly outdoor space perfect for picnicking and exploring.
Located near the gondola base.
NZD 0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Dine on fine cuisine with exceptional wines, a treasure for food lovers.
Near the waterfront, easily accessible.
NZD 220 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Milford Sound Experience

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a day of adventure.
Included with your accommodation.
NZD 0, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Travel the scenic 2.5-hour route to Milford Sound.
Follow the Milford Road, passing stunning landscapes.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Set sail for a breathtaking cruise around beautiful fjords, observing wildlife along the way.
Book your cruise in advance.
NZD 120 per person, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Refuel with light meals while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Located next to the boat terminal.
NZD 30 total, 1 hour

1:30PM

Short Walks in the Fiordland National Park

Explore beautiful walking trails that cater to all ages; family-friendly options are available.
Within walking distance of the cafe.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Queenstown

Return on the scenic road, taking in views you might have missed earlier.
Follow the same route back.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Relax in a cozy environment while enjoying contemporary New Zealand cuisine.
Located in Queenstown’s town center.
NZD 150 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 10: Dunedin Exploration

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Earth

Begin the day with a nutritious breakfast packed with local flavors.
Short drive from your hotel.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dunedin

Travel 3.5 hours through lush landscapes to reach Dunedin, iconic for wildlife and history.
Take State Highway 1.
NZD 0, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Esplanade

Enjoy lunch with a view of the ocean while sampling fresh seafood.
Located along the coastal road.
NZD 60 total, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Otago Museum

Explore exhibits showcasing Dunedin's rich cultural and natural history.
Short drive from The Esplanade.
NZD 15 per person, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

Unwind in luxury accommodations in the heart of Dunedin.
Located downtown.
NZD 220, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Compass Cafe

Dine in a relaxed atmosphere with options for kids, featuring a local menu.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
NZD 80 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin

Day 11: Wanaka Wonders

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hillside Brunch

Sample a delicious brunch with a variety of farm-to-table options at this often-busy café.
10 minutes drive from your hotel.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a stunning hour-long drive through mountains and along lakes.
Follow the scenic route via State Highway 84.
NZD 0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Lake Wanaka

Relax by the famous lake or try some family-friendly watersports available nearby.
Easily accessible from the center.
NZD 0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Shore Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely meal overlooking the lake, featuring fresh local ingredients.
Great views of the lake.
NZD 70 total, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Puzzling World

Explore the quirky and entertaining attraction filled with mazes and illusion rooms for all ages!
Just a short drive from town.
NZD 20 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Red Star Burger Bar

Satisfy cravings with gourmet burgers and kid-friendly options.
Located in the heart of Wanaka.
NZD 50 total, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 12: Christchurch Splendors

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Class

Indulge in rich coffee and local baked goods at this cozy café.
In central Wanaka.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Take a scenic drive of 4.5 hours to reach the 'Garden City'.
Follow State Highway 1.
NZD 0, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Monday Room

Sample locally inspired dishes at this charming eatery in the heartbeat of Christchurch.
Located near the botanical gardens.
NZD 45 total, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautiful gardens, perfect for family exploration.
Adjacent to the Monday Room.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Check into The George

Enjoy luxury accommodations situated beside the Avon River.
A short drive from the gardens.
NZD 400, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at 5th Street

Indulge in modern cuisine in a relaxed and friendly setting; great for families.
Located downtown, accessible by a short drive.
NZD 100 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 13: Kaikoura Coastal Gem

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The George

Enjoy a gourmet breakfast at your luxury hotel before heading out.
Included with your stay.
NZD 0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel the scenic coastal route of 2.5 hours, tracing the coastline and mountains.
Follow State Highway 1.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Green Dolphin

Enjoy a casual meal with locally caught seafood and fresh ingredients.
Located conveniently in the center of Kaikoura.
NZD 50 total, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the thrill of spotting whales in their natural environment on a family-friendly cruise.
Book in advance for a great experience.
NZD 150 per person, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Take a scenic walk enjoying stunning coastal views; keep an eye out for seals!
Easily accessible from the town.
NZD 0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Taste incredible seafood dishes in a relaxed environment.
Located near the peninsula.
NZD 80 total, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 14: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at White Morph Bistro

Enjoy a lovely breakfast before heading back to Auckland.
Short drive from your hotel.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Auckland

Travel back to Auckland, a 3-hour drive through beautiful landscapes.
Follow the same route back.
NZD 0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Glasshouse

Dine at this modern establishment with a focus on fresh local ingredients.
Located near the city center.
NZD 60 total, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Auckland Art Gallery

Explore impressive art collections in this stunning venue, ideal for families.
Just a short drive away.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check-in for departure

Prepare for your departure, reminiscing on a trip filled with adventure and luxury.
At Auckland Airport.
NZD 0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Auckland
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