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14-Day Family Adventure in New Zealand: Nature, Culture, and City Experiences

Viewed by 128 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

10:00AM

Arrive at Auckland Airport

Welcome to New Zealand! Pick up your rental car and get ready for an exciting adventure.
Directly exit the airport onto the State Highway 20.
NZD0, 30 mins

11:00AM

Visit Sky Tower

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the Sky Tower's observation deck.
Drive 15 minutes to Sky City.
NZD32 per adult, NZD15 per child, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Orbit 360° Restaurant

Relish a buffet lunch while continuing to appreciate the views.
Located in the Sky Tower.
NZD45 per adult, NZD20 per child, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's history and culture, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
Drive 15 minutes to the museum.
NZD25 per adult, NZD10 per child, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly hotel in Auckland.
Short drive to the hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Depot Eatery

Enjoy fresh, local cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for families.
Short drive from the hotel.
NZD40 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little & Friday

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this local favorite.
15 minutes from the hotel.
NZD15 per adult, NZD10 per child, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Explore the diverse wildlife exhibitions; it's a hit with kids and adults alike.
Drive 20 minutes to the zoo.
NZD24 per adult, NZD12 per child, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Enjoy casual lunch options featuring fresh, local ingredients.
Within the zoo grounds.
NZD20 per adult, NZD10 per child, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for breathtaking beaches and vineyards, allowing the family to relax.
Ferry from Auckland's downtown ferry terminal.
NZD42 per adult, NZD22 per child (return ticket), 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard

Dine amidst stunning views and delicious New Zealand cuisine.
Short drive on the island from the ferry terminal.
NZD60 per adult, NZD30 per child, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Travel to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before hitting the road.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy scenic views as you travel to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
Take State Highway 1 and then State Highway 5.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly accommodation in Rotorua.
Short drive from the main road.
Varies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Patrona Restaurant

Enjoy delightful contemporary cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Close to the hotel in central Rotorua.
NZD25 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Te Puia Geothermal Park

Witness geysers and hot pools while learning about Māori culture.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
NZD50 per adult, NZD25 per child, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Redwoods Cafe

Savor wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads in a picturesque setting.
Short drive to the Redwoods.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Rotorua Adventures

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a healthy breakfast before an exciting day ahead.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore vibrant geothermal landscapes and admire the famous Champagne Pool.
30-minute drive from Rotorua.
NZD38 per adult, NZD17 per child, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Lakefront Bistro

Dine overlooking Lake Rotorua with a diverse menu to please everyone.
Short drive back to Rotorua city center.
NZD25 per adult, NZD12 per child, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Rafting on Kaituna River

Experience an exhilarating white-water rafting adventure suitable for families.
Drive 20 minutes toward the activity base.
NZD115 per adult, NZD95 per child, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening at Tamaki Māori Village

Enjoy a cultural experience with a traditional Māori feast and performances.
Short drive from the rafting base.
NZD139 per adult, NZD70 per child, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Discover Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Refuel your energy for the journey to Taupo.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Enjoy scenic views along the way, stopping at Huka Falls for a quick photo op.
Take State Highway 1 and then State Highway 5.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the stunning turquoise waters and booming waterfall.
5-minute drive from the road.
NZD0, 30 mins

11:00AM

Continue to Taupo

Arrive at the stunning Lake Taupo, renowned for its outdoor activities.
10-minute drive from the falls.
NZD0, 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at the Lakehouse

Enjoy waterfront dining with a fantastic menu for families.
Located by Lake Taupo.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Lake Taupo

Enjoy activities like kayaking or paddleboarding on the tranquil lake.
Walk from the restaurant to the lakefront.
NZD60 per person for equipment rental, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax and unwind at your family-friendly accommodation.
Short drive from the lake area.
Varies, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Savor seasonal dishes with a local flair in a cozy atmosphere.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
NZD55 per adult, NZD25 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 6: Wellington's Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up before your travel to the capital city.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Arrive in the vibrant capital city known for its culture and arts.
Take State Highway 1.
NZD0, 4.5 hours

1:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into a family-friendly hotel in Wellington.
Short drive from the road.
Varies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at arepa Fella

Enjoy tasty Venezuelan arepas with family-friendly options.
Nearby the hotel.
NZD20 per adult, NZD10 per child, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Explore interactive exhibits that captivate both children and adults.
10-minute drive from lunch.
NZD0 (free entry), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Dine in a fine restaurant emphasizing locally sourced ingredients.
Short drive back into the city center.
NZD75 per adult, NZD30 per child, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Wellington Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with New Zealand coffee.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cable Car and Botanical Gardens

Experience a scenic cable car ride leading to stunning gardens.
10-minute drive to the cable car station.
NZD4 per adult, NZD2 per child (return ticket), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Zealandia

Discover the wildlife sanctuary full of native species and beautiful walks.
20-minute drive from the gardens.
NZD25 per adult, NZD12 per child, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sweet Mother’s Kitchen

A family-friendly diner offering a mix of local and international dishes.
Drive back towards the city centre.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Weta Workshop

Explore behind-the-scenes magic of movie-making in this iconic workshop.
Drive 15 minutes from the restaurant.
NZD28 per adult, NZD14 per child, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Scopa

A cozy Italian restaurant perfect for families with a welcoming vibe.
Short drive from Weta Workshop.
NZD40 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 8: Journey to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before the scenic drive to Nelson.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel through beautiful countryside and rugged mountains towards Nelson.
Take State Highway 1 and then State Highway 6.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into a family-friendly hotel in Nelson.
Short drive from the main road.
Varies, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Workshop

Enjoy delicious, locally sourced food in a casual setting.
Located in the city center.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Nelson Markets

Experience local artisan products, crafts, and food at the vibrant outdoor market (only on Saturdays).
Stroll to the market from the lunch spot.
NZD0, cost of purchases vary, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Hogget

Savoring a menu focused on local produce and offers vegetarian-friendly dishes.
Short drive from the city center.
NZD45 per adult, NZD20 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 9: Abel Tasman Adventure

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A delightful breakfast will prepare you for a day of adventure.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to this beautiful park.
20-minute drive to the park entrance.
NZD0, 30 mins

9:00AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Explore the stunning coastline and see seals up close with a family-friendly kayak tour.
Meet at the kayaking base in the park.
NZD100 per adult, NZD70 per child, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Anchorage Bay

Have a beach picnic with packed lunches prepared for you.
Break on the beach mid-kayak tour.
NZD20 per adult, NZD10 per child, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Walks in Abel Tasman

Choose from various family-friendly walking trails ranging from short to moderate.
Hike from Anchorage Beach.
NZD0 (free entry), 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Nelson

Drive back to your hotel after a day of fun.
20-minute drive back.
NZD0, 30 mins

6:00PM

Dinner at the Boat Shed

Relax by the waterfront and enjoy casual dining with a view.
Located at the waterfront.
NZD35 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman National Park

Day 10: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast to prepare for a drive.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Experience breathtaking views as you travel towards the Southern Alps.
Take State Highway 6 along the coast.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel near the glacier.
Short drive from the main road.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at the Landing

Enjoy local New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Located near the hotel.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Franz Josef Glacier

Take a guided glacier walk or helicopter flight over the stunning ice formations.
Short drive to the glacier access area.
NZD300 per adult (helicopter), NZD150 per child (guided walk), 3.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Café

Relax and unwind with a casual dinner after a thrilling day.
Near your accommodation.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 11: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast before traveling to Queenstown.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel to the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Take State Highway 6.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into a family-friendly hotel in Queenstown.
Short drive from the main road.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Savor the famous burgers at this iconic eatery after a long journey.
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD25 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy scenic views of Lake Wakatipu.
Located near the city center.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

Experience breathtaking views of Queenstown from the Skyline Gondola.
Walk to the gondola base.
NZD44 per adult, NZD22 per child, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy dinner with stunning views across the Remarkables mountain range.
Located at the gondola summit.
NZD60 per adult, NZD30 per child, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A hearty breakfast to energize you for an adventurous day.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons.
Short drive to the jet boat launch site.
NZD139 per adult, NZD84 per child, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kiwi Birdlife Park

Learn about New Zealand’s unique wildlife and meet Kiwi birds in their natural habitat.
Drive back to the city center.
NZD35 per adult, NZD18 per child, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Remarkables Tavern

Savor a delectable lunch with a cozy atmosphere after the morning's excitement.
Short drive from Kiwi Birdlife Park.
NZD30 per adult, NZD15 per child, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take a Scenic Drive to Glenorchy

Journey to Glenorchy for stunning views of the surrounding regional park.
Drive along the scenic route from Queenstown.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Queenstown

Drive back after a scenic outing.
Take the same route back.
NZD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Indulge in fine dining with an emphasis on seasonal and local produce.
Located in Queenstown.
NZD90 per adult, NZD40 per child, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 13: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

A quick breakfast to prepare for the long drive ahead.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 30 mins

6:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Depart early for a scenic drive to the famous Milford Sound, known for its stunning views.
Follow the Milford Road.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Take a breathtaking boat cruise through the sound, with stunning views of waterfalls and wildlife.
Board the cruise at the Milford Sound terminal.
NZD110 per adult, NZD50 per child, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the stunning landscape.
Included on the cruise.
NZD0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to Queenstown

Travel back after enjoying the majestic views.
Drive back via the same scenic route.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Unwind after a long but rewarding day.
Short drive from the town center.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner in this rustic eatery famous for its pizza and pasta.
Located in Queenstown.
NZD45 per adult, NZD20 per child, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Departure to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Final breakfast before departing for Christchurch.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Enjoy the scenic views as you head back to Christchurch.
Take State Highway 1.
NZD0, 6 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Christchurch for a night before departure.
Short drive from the highway.
Varies, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through these historic gardens, a relaxing way to end your trip.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
NZD0 (free entry), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Monday Room

Enjoy a flavorful dinner with a great menu reflective of local culture.
Short drive back towards the center.
NZD60 per adult, NZD25 per child, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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