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 New Zealand Adventure: From Fiordland to the North Island

Viewed by 122 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Begin your adventure by settling into your hotel in Queenstown, a hub for outdoor activities.
Drive from Queenstown Airport to hotel, 15 minutes.
NZD150, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in the legendary Fergburger for a hearty lunch; try the 'Queenstown' burger—it's a must!
5-minute walk from hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Lake Wakatipu

Take a relaxing stroll along Lake Wakatipu’s shores for stunning views of the Remarkables.
10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Skyline Gondola

Ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of Queenstown; enjoy the scenery on the ascent.
15-minute walk from lakeside.
NZD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner at Stratosfare with views of the sunset over Lake Wakatipu.
Atop the Skyline Gondola.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 2: Fiordland Exploration

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Enjoy a scenic drive to Milford Sound, taking in the breathtaking views along the way.
2-hour drive from Queenstown.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Board a boat for a 2-hour cruise through the stunning fjords, witnessing waterfalls and wildlife.
Departure point at Milford Sound wharf.
NZD120, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Refuel with lunch at the café, enjoying local flavors amidst dramatic scenery.
Located at Milford Sound visitor center.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking Experience

Take a guided kayaking tour for a closer look at the serene waters of Milford Sound.
Meet at the kayak rental site.
NZD150, 2 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Te Anau

Head to Te Anau for an overnight stop; enjoy the peaceful lakeside view.
2-hour drive back.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Branding Room

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Branding Room, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
In the center of Te Anau.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 3: Te Anau to Wanaka

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Te Anau Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee at the renowned Te Anau Bakery.
Short walk from hotel.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Dive into an enchanting experience at the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a highlight of the area.
Literally beside the lake, guided tours depart from the boat jetty.
NZD65, 2 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Set out for Wanaka, a picturesque journey filled with beautiful views.
2-hour drive from Te Anau.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow

Savor delicious pizza at The Cow, a rustic establishment with great local vibes.
Located in downtown Wanaka.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Lake Wanaka

Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Wanaka or relax on the beach.
10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Hike to Roy's Peak

Embark on a scenic hike to Roy’s Peak for stunning views over Wanaka.
Drive 15 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

End the day with a fine dining experience at Bistro Gentil, celebrating local cuisine.
Located 5 minutes from the Wanaka centre.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 4: Adventure in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Relishing Food

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Relishing Food, known for its organic ingredients.
5-minute walk from hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Jumping

Experience the thrill of a lifetime at AJ Hackett's Kawarau Bungy, New Zealand's first commercial bungy jump!
30-minute drive from Wanaka.
NZD205, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Bungy Café

Recover from your jump with a light lunch at the onsite café, enjoying the warm ambiance.
Within the bungy site.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Rippon Vineyard

Tour the picturesque Rippon Vineyard for stunning views and a tasting of local wines.
15-minute drive from the bungy site.
NZD40, 2 hours

5:30PM

Take Photos at Wanaka Tree

Stroll to the iconic Wanaka Tree for a perfect photo opportunity, especially at sunset.
10 minutes drive from Rippon Vineyard.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Banyan Tree

Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Banyan Tree, known for its tapas-style menu and cozy setting.
Just a short drive from Wanaka.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 5: Journey to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a comforting breakfast in Wanaka at a local café of your choice.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Set off on a scenic drive to Lake Tekapo, famous for its stunning turquoise waters.
2-hour drive from Wanaka.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Explore the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully set against the lake backdrop.
Short walk from parking.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Greedy Cow

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Greedy Cow, known for its hearty burgers and milkshakes.
Located near the lake, 5-minute walk.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Take an afternoon to relax and explore the area, followed by a stunning evening of stargazing.
Enjoy at leisure around Lake Tekapo.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dark Sky Diner

Dine at Dark Sky Diner after a full day, offering good food with magnificent lake views.
Short drive from stargazing spot.
NZD55, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 6: Aoraki National Park Adventure

Aoraki National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café before a day of adventure in the national park.
Near your accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Aoraki National Park

Take the scenic drive to Aoraki National Park, marveling at the stunning landscapes.
1-hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
Free (fuel costs vary), 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike Hooker Valley Track

Embark on the Hooker Valley Track, a popular hiking trail offering stunning views of Aoraki.
Start the track at the Hooker Valley car park.
Free, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Hooker Lake

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch along the way, with breathtaking views of the lake.
During the hike.
NZD15 (for supplies), 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the National Park Visitor Center

Visit the Aoraki National Park Visitor Center to learn more about the region's ecology.
Close to the park entrance.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive back to Lake Tekapo

Head back to Lake Tekapo for another evening at this beautiful spot.
1-hour drive back.
Free (fuel costs vary), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Last Kitchen

Dine at The Last Kitchen for a relaxed atmosphere and excellent local dishes.
Located in Lake Tekapo township.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Aoraki National Park

Day 7: Coastal Drive to Moeraki Boulders

Moeraki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start the day with breakfast at a cozy café in Lake Tekapo.
Nearby your accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Moeraki Boulders

Embark on a scenic drive to the Moeraki Boulders, famous for their unique spherical shapes.
2-hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Moeraki Boulders

Wander around the beach to marvel at the Moeraki Boulders, perfect for photography.
At Moeraki Beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Moeraki Boulders Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and local meals at the restaurant overlooking the boulders.
Located a short walk from the beach.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Kaikoura

Continue your drive to Kaikoura, where the mountains meet the sea.
2-hour drive from Moeraki.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for Kaikoura's coastal delights.
Near Kaikoura town.
NZD150, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy dinner at The Pier Hotel with a focus on fresh local seafood and stunning ocean views.
Located in central Kaikoura.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Moeraki

Day 8: Whale Watching Day

Kaikoura, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for whale watching.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Join a whale watching tour to spot sperm whales and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Departure point at Kaikoura harbor.
NZD160, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Green Dolphin Restaurant

Refuel with lunch at Green Dolphin, known for its excellent seafood offerings.
Located near Kaikoura township.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Take a scenic stroll along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway to enjoy coastal views and wildlife.
Start of the walkway is easily accessible.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Kaikoura Seal Colony

Head to the Seal Colony for close-up views of New Zealand fur seals in their habitat.
Located on the coastal road.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Craypot

Savor delicious local crayfish at The Craypot, a well-known dining spot in Kaikoura.
Short drive from hotel.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 9: Journey to Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, indulging in local options.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Waitomo

Set off on your scenic drive to Waitomo, known for its stunning caves.
3-hour drive from Kaikoura.
Free (fuel costs vary), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy lunch at Waitomo Homestead before your cave adventure.
Located close to the caves.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Waitomo Caves

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Waitomo Caves and witness the spectacular glowworms.
Guided tours are available at the caves.
NZD65, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Continue your exploration with a visit to the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Short walk between cave attractions.
NZD65, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Waitomo Organic Farm

Savor a delicious meal at Waitomo Organic Farm, known for its fresh, local produce.
Located nearby the caves.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 10: Adventure at Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the national park.
On-site dining.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Drive to Tongariro National Park, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and hikes.
2.5-hour drive from Waitomo.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike, a breathtaking adventure.
Parking area at the start of the trail.
Free, 7-8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Café

End your day with a satisfying meal at The Park Café, offering delightful local cuisine.
Located within the national park.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 11: Relaxation in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your drive to Rotorua.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Set off for Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
1.5-hour drive from Tongariro National Park.
Free (fuel costs vary), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Te Puia to witness bubbling mud pools, geysers, and Maori culture.
Short drive from your hotel.
NZD65, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pavilion

Enjoy a lovely lunch overlooking the geothermal park at The Pavilion.
While at Te Puia.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax in Rotorua’s Hot Springs

Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Rotorua's famous hot springs.
Multiple options available in Rotorua.
NZD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Skyline Rotorua

Enjoy stunning views from Skyline Rotorua, followed by optional luge rides.
Short drive from hot springs.
NZD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Try local dishes at Atticus Finch, famous for its inventive menu and great atmosphere.
Located in central Rotorua.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 12: Cultural Experience in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast to start your day in Rotorua before heading to Auckland.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Auckland

Embark on a scenic drive to Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand.
3-hour drive from Rotorua.
Free (fuel costs vary), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tom Tom Bar and Eatery

Excite your taste buds with lunch at Tom Tom, featuring a modern menu.
In the Auckland CBD.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover New Zealand's history and culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Short drive from lunch.
NZD25, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Viaduct Harbour

Take a relaxing walk around the Viaduct Harbour, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Sky Tower Observation Deck

End your day with stunning panoramic views at the Sky Tower observation deck.
Short drive or walk from the Viaduct.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

Enjoy a memorable dining experience with panoramic views at the revolving restaurant.
Located at the top of Sky Tower.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 13: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Relish a restful breakfast at your hotel in Auckland before exploring the city.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waiheke Island

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island, renowned for its grapevines and beaches.
Ferry terminal walking distance from your hotel.
NZD40, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Wine Tasting on Waiheke

Visit a vineyard for wine tasting, enjoying the local flavors of this beautiful region.
Short drive or walk depending on vineyard.
NZD45, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Oyster Inn

Dine at Oyster Inn with a fantastic view, specializing in fresh seafood.
Located in Oneroa on Waiheke Island.
NZD50, 2 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Onetangi Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Onetangi Beach, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Short drive from Oneroa.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard

Return to Auckland and dine at Mudbrick Vineyard, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Late ferry back to Auckland.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 14: Departure from Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have a last breakfast at your hotel before departure, soaking in the final moments of your New Zealand adventure.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute Shopping in Auckland

Spend some time shopping for souvenirs in Auckland's vibrant CBD.
Walking distance from your hotel.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant while reminiscing about your trip.
On-site at your hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Check-out and Departure to Airport

Check out of the hotel and head to the airport for your departure.
Drive to Auckland Airport.
Free (transport costs vary), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Auckland
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed