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14-Day New Zealand Adventure: From Christchurch to Fiordland

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Day 1: Arrive in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Begin your New Zealand adventure by settling into your hotel in Christchurch, a city known for its beautiful gardens and culture.
Transportation from Christchurch Airport to hotel, about 20 minutes.
NZD150, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Curator's House

Indulge in a lovely lunch at The Curator's House, beautifully situated in the Botanic Gardens.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
NZD35, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning Botanic Gardens and explore the beauty of New Zealand's flora.
Adjacent to The Curator's House.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Discover New Zealand's heritage at the Canterbury Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits.
Short walk from the Botanic Gardens.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check out Restart Mall

Stroll through Restart Mall, a unique shopping area built from shipping containers, showcasing local businesses.
Short drive or 15-minute walk from the museum.
Free (shopping costs vary), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Riff (Fine Dining)

Experience fine dining at Riff, known for its inventive menu inspired by local ingredients.
15-minute drive from Restart Mall.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 2: Drive to Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, preparing for the scenic drive ahead.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Set off on a beautiful coastal drive to Kaikoura, renowned for its marine wildlife.
2.5-hour drive from Christchurch.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Kaikoura Peninsula, taking in stunning coastal views.
Easily accessible from Kaikoura township.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Whaling Station

Savor fresh seafood at The Whaling Station, a charming spot with ocean views.
In central Kaikoura.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kaikoura Seal Colony

Head to the Seal Colony to observe New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat.
Short drive or walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and unwind at your hotel before dinner.
Located in central Kaikoura.
NZD150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pier Hotel

End the day with dinner at The Pier Hotel, which offers a focus on fresh local seafood.
5-minute drive from hotel.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 3: Journey to Moeraki Boulders

Moeraki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation to kickstart your day.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Moeraki Boulders

Set off for a scenic drive to the Moeraki Boulders, famous for their unique spherical shapes.
2-hour drive from Kaikoura.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Moeraki Boulders

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, marveling at the stunning Moeraki Boulders.
At Moeraki Beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Moeraki Boulders Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the Moeraki Boulders Restaurant, offering fresh seafood and local dishes.
A short walk from the beach.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Dunedin

Continue your drive to Dunedin, known for its rich Scottish heritage and stunning architecture.
1-hour drive from Moeraki.
Free (fuel costs vary), 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Larnach Castle

Explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, with beautiful gardens and stunning views.
15-minute drive from central Dunedin.
NZD50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and refresh at your hotel before dinner.
Located in Dunedin.
NZD150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Canton Restaurant

Enjoy a delectable dinner at the Canton Restaurant, famous for its modern contemporary cuisine.
In central Dunedin.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Moeraki

Day 4: Fiordland Exploration

Te Anau, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at a popular café in Dunedin.
Near your hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Set off for Te Anau, a gateway to Fiordland National Park.
2-hour drive from Dunedin.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take an enchanting tour of the Glowworm Caves, showcasing the mesmerizing glowworms.
Cave tours start from the downtown area.
NZD65, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Radfords

Enjoy lunch at The Radfords Café, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious meals.
Located in Te Anau.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Fiordland National Park Visitor Center

Discover more about the natural beauty and adventure opportunities in Fiordland National Park.
Visitor center in Te Anau.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive to Te Anau Lake

Take a scenic drive to Te Anau Lake, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
10-minute drive from the visitor center.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Stroll around Te Anau Lake

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Te Anau Lake, soaking up the atmosphere.
Walking trail around the lake.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Branding Room

End your day with dinner at The Branding Room, renowned for its hearty local dishes.
In central Te Anau.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 5: Milford Sound Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before an exciting day at Milford Sound.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a scenic drive to Milford Sound, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
2-hour drive from Te Anau.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

10:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Board a boat for a 2-hour cruise through the majestic fjord, observing waterfalls and wildlife.
Cruise departs from Milford Sound wharf.
NZD120, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Refuel with lunch at the outdoor café, enjoying great views and local options.
Near the wharf.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Kayaking Experience

Join a guided kayaking tour for a close encounter with the stunning waters of Milford Sound.
Meet at the kayaking area near the dock.
NZD150, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive back to Te Anau

Return to Te Anau to rest after an adventurous day.
2-hour drive back.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Red Crater

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Red Crater, praised for a warm atmosphere and local cuisine.
Located in Te Anau.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 6: Adventure in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at a local café in Te Anau.
Near your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Set out for Wanaka, famous for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities.
2-hour drive from Te Anau.
Free (fuel costs vary), 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at The Cow

Savor a delicious pizza at The Cow, a rustic restaurant with a great vibe.
In downtown Wanaka.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

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

3:00PM

Hike to Roy's Peak

Embark on a scenic hike to Roy’s Peak for breathtaking views over Wanaka.
Drive 15 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 3-4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Bistro Gentil, known for its exquisite local cuisine.
Located 5 minutes from the Wanaka center.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 7: Bungy Jumping and Visit Lake Tekapo

AJ Hackett Kawarau & Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Relishing Food

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Relishing Food in Wanaka.
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 views.
Within the bungy site.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Continue on your journey to Lake Tekapo, famous for its stunning turquoise waters.
1.5-hour drive from Kawarau Bungy.
Free (fuel costs vary), 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Explore the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully set against the lake backdrop.
Short drive from the lake area.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

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

7:30PM

Dinner at Dark Sky Diner

End the day with dinner at Dark Sky Diner after a full day, offering remarkable views.
Short drive from the stargazing spot.
NZD55, 2 hours
Find Hotels in AJ Hackett Kawarau & Lake Tekapo

Day 8: Aoraki National Park Adventure

Aoraki National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day 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 beautiful hike 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, surrounded by breathtaking views.
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 the evening.
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 9: Journey to Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

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

9:00AM

Drive to Waitomo

Set off on your scenic drive to Waitomo, known for its stunning caves.
3-hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
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.
Near the caves.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 10: Scenic Day in Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Tongariro National Park.
On-site at your accommodation.
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: Island Adventure at Waiheke

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Relish a restful breakfast at your hotel in Auckland before exploring Waiheke Island.
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 Waiheke Island

Day 14: Departure from Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have a last breakfast at your hotel before departure, soaking up 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
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