14-Day New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: Scenic Wonders from Queenstown to Auckland

Day 1: Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Kickstart your journey with delicious coffee and a fresh brioche at Vudu Cafe, a local favorite.
Walk to Vudu Cafe which is centrally located.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the gondola to Bob's Peak for breathtaking views of Queenstown and The Remarkables.
Walk to the gondola base less than 10 minutes away.
NZD 44, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with stunning panoramic views of Queenstown from atop Bob's Peak.
Dining is available at the summit.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Lake Wakatipu

Stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Wakatipu and soak in the stunning mountain scenery.
Walk to the waterfront, 15-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience a thrilling jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons.
Drive to Shotover Jet base, 10 minutes.
NZD 139, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Savor delicious pizza at this cozy and rustic Queenstown institution.
Drive or walk back to town, 10-minute walk.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ferg Bakery

Grab a pie or pastry to-go, known for their delectable baked goods.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Enjoy the scenic drive through rolling hills and stunning landscapes to Te Anau.
Follow SH6 and then SH94, a 2h drive.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Experience the magical glowworm caves that are among New Zealand's top attractions.
Walk to the cave entrance, 10-minute walk.
NZD 79, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Redcliff Cafe

Indulge in a hearty lunch with local specialties overlooking the lake.
5-minute walk from the caves.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Te Anau Lake

Take a leisurely walk along the shores of Te Anau Lake to enjoy more stunning views.
Walk to the lake shore.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Enjoy delicious contemporary New Zealand cuisine with an innovative twist.
Short drive from the lake area.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Wanaka Wonders

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cinema Paradiso

A unique café with a cinema vibe, offering great breakfast options and locally sourced coffee.
Walk from your accommodation, about 10 minutes.
NZD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Wind through the scenic landscape along Lake Wakatipu to reach Wanaka.
Take SH94, a 1.5h drive.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Snap a photo at the iconic Wanaka Tree, a beloved lakeside landmark.
Drive or walk to the lakeshore, 15-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Take a stroll at Rippon Vineyard

Wander around the beautiful vineyard while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Drive to the vineyard, about 5 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Relax with a leisurely lunch at this acclaimed bistro, overlooking the vineyard.
Around 5 minutes drive from Rippon Vineyard.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Lake Wanaka

Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on picturesque Lake Wanaka.
Rental shops are along the lakefront.
NZD 100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kika

Enjoy a fusion of flavors with fresh, local ingredients at this popular restaurant.
Short 5-minute drive from the lake.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Relax at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cafe

Dig into a delicious breakfast with local produce at The Cafe, overlooking the stunning lake.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Enjoy more scenic views on your way to the breathtaking Lake Tekapo.
Via SH8, approximately a 1-hour drive.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Explore this charming church, a famous icon of the region with panoramic views.
Drive to the church, 5 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stargazing at Mount John Observatory

Take a guided tour and witness the breathtaking southern night sky like never before.
Short drive to Mount John, about 15 minutes.
NZD 40, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kohan Restaurant

Savor Japanese cuisine with views of the lake at this well-regarded eatery.
5-minute drive from the observatory.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax by Lake Tekapo

Spend the afternoon soaking in the serene atmosphere along the shores of Lake Tekapo.
Walk to the lakeshore.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Astro Cafe

Enjoy dinner with breathtaking night views at this lakeside cafe while the stars begin to shine.
Drive to the cafe, about 10 minutes.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Majestic Mt. Cook

Mt. Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Lake Tekapo accommodation

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out for Mt. Cook.
At your accommodation, no travel needed.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mt. Cook

Travel towards Franz Josef, enjoying views of the Southern Alps along the way.
Take SH8, a 1 hour drive.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park

Hike some of the stunning trails to experience the breathtaking views of New Zealand's highest peak.
Drive to the park entrance, about 10 minutes.
NZD 0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Old Mountaineers' Cafe

Enjoy a bite with views of the mountains in this historic location.
Drive to the cafe from the park, about 10 minutes.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Learn about New Zealand's mountaineering history at this fascinating center.
Back to the base of Mt. Cook, about 10 minutes.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hike to Tasman Glacier Viewpoint

Embark on a moderate hike to catch stunning views of the Tasman Glacier.
Access via the park trailhead, about 5 minutes drive.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mt. Cook Alpine Lodge

Enjoy scrumptious local fare surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.
Dine at your accommodation.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Serene Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Mt. Cook accommodation

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Lake Pukaki.
At your accommodation, no travel needed.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Pukaki

Enjoy a relaxed drive to Lake Pukaki, where turquoise skies meet vibrant blue waters.
Take SH8, approximately a 30-minute drive.
NZD 0, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Photo Stop at Lake Pukaki

Stop for stunning photos at the picturesque shores of Lake Pukaki.
Park along the lakeside.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Area

Enjoy walking along the lake's edge or take a kayak out on the water.
Rental facilities nearby.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Pukaki Restaurant

Savor locally sourced meals with views of the lake at this delightful spot.
Short drive away, about 10 minutes.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Leisurely Afternoon by the Lake

Take this time to relax further or do some fishing on the lake.
Stay along the lake.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at the Lake Pukaki Viewpoint Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful dinner with views of the lake.
Short drive away.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Charming Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Lake Pukaki accommodation

Fuel up with a nourishing breakfast before heading to Christchurch.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Travel towards the largest city in the South Island known for its gardens.
Follow SH1, approximately 2 hours.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through these iconic gardens housing diverse plant species.
Drive to the gardens, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dux Dine

Enjoy fresh seafood and beer at this scenic garden restaurant.
Short drive from the gardens, about 10 minutes.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Take a stroll in the city center

Explore the revitalized city center, with boutique shops and art galleries.
Drive to city center, about 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Discover history and culture at one of New Zealand's most revered museums.
Walk from the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Dine in a vibrant atmosphere featuring seasonal menus and local treats.
Short walk from the museum.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Kaikoura Adventure

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Christchurch accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your journey to Kaikoura.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel along the coastline while enjoying stunning views of the ocean.
Via SH1, approximately 2.5 hours.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Enjoy a walk along the scenic coastal path, where you might see seals and dolphins.
Drive to the walkway access, about 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Fresh Fish Co.

Delight in freshly caught seafood at this local favorite.
Short drive from the walkway, about 5 minutes.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Join a tour for a chance to see the majestic sperm whales off the Kaikoura coast.
Drive to the tour operator base, about 5 minutes.
NZD 150, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Pier Hotel

Savor great local dishes while gazing out over the ocean.
Short drive from the whale watching base.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Lake Taupo Bliss

Lake Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Kaikoura accommodation

Savor a traditional Kiwi breakfast before your drive.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Taupo

Backtrack to return to Lake Taupo, enjoying the scenic route.
Via SH1, about a 4-hour drive.
NZD 0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lake Taupo's Lakehouse

Enjoy lakeside views and fresh local fare at this popular spot.
Short drive from the lake entrance.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Huka Falls

Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Huka Falls—a must-see in Taupo.
Drive to Huka Falls, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax by Lake Taupo

Take time to relax by the lake and enjoy the stunning views.
Return to the lakefront.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Brantry

Indulge in exquisite contemporary cuisine at this fine dining establishment.
Short drive from the lake.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Rotorua Relaxation

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Lake Taupo accommodation

Enjoy breakfast while savoring the views before moving on.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Take a scenic drive through lush landscapes to reach Rotorua.
Via SH5, approximately a 1 hour drive.
NZD 0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Te Puia Thermal Reserve

Witness stunning geothermal activity, including geysers and bubbling mud pools.
Short drive from the entrance.
NZD 50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Rotorua Night Market

Experience local flavors at the vibrant food stalls of the night market.
Drive to market area, about 10 minutes.
NZD 20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax in the Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the rejuvenating geothermal pools renowned for their healing properties.
Short drive from the market.
NZD 65, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Redwoods Forest

Wander through towering redwoods and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful forest.
Short drive to the entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Eat Street

Dine from a selection of cuisines in this vibrant dining precinct.
Drive to Eat Street area, about 5 minutes.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Coromandel Peninsula Excursion

Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Rotorua accommodation

Start the day with a nourishing breakfast before heading out.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Coromandel Peninsula

Enjoy the scenic drive, punctuated by beautiful coastal views to Coromandel.
Take SH25, approximately a 2-hour drive.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hot Water Beach

Dig into the sand at low tide to create your own natural hot pool.
Local signage guides you the way.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Coromandel Oyster Company

Devour fresh seafood delights at this renowned eatery.
Drive to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Cathedral Cove

Hike down to this stunning bay with its famous rock arch and crystal-clear waters.
Drive to the entrance, about 20 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Pour House

Enjoy a cozy meal with wood-fire specialties at this charming local favorite.
Drive back toward Coromandel Town, about 30 minutes.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Coromandel accommodation

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast before hitting the road for Auckland.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Auckland

Take a 2.5-hour drive into New Zealand's largest city, filled with dynamic culture.
Via SH1, approximately a 2.5-hour drive.
NZD 0, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover Maori history, military history, and cultural exhibits at this iconic museum.
Drive to the museum, about 15 minutes.
NZD 20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Cigale French Market

Savor local and French delicacies at this bustling food market.
Short drive from the museum.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking views of Auckland from this iconic landmark.
Short drive to Sky Tower, about 10 minutes.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Viaduct Harbour

Unwind by the waterfront, with options for shopping and dining or simply enjoying the view.
Short drive from Sky Tower, about 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baduzzi

Conclude your adventure with a hearty dinner at this popular Italian restaurant.
Drive to Baduzzi in the Wynyard Quarter, about 5 minutes.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Auckland accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you prepare for another day of exploring.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Auckland Art Gallery

Discover impressive collections of New Zealand and international art.
Short drive from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Walk along Mission Bay Beach

Stroll along the beach and enjoy the sun and sea air.
Drive to Mission Bay, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mission Bay’s Da Vinci’s

Enjoy a delicious meal with a beach view at this popular bistro.
Short walk from the beach.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Auckland Domain

Wander through this spacious park, enjoying gardens and historical monuments.
Drive to the domain, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

Venture through the fascinating underwater habitats and marine life exhibits.
Drive for about 15 minutes.
NZD 40, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Dine right by the waterfront with a menu dedicated to celebrating local produce.
15-minute drive from the aquarium.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Wrap Up in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Auckland accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your last day in New Zealand.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute shopping at Victoria Street

Explore local shops for souvenirs and gifts before your departure.
Short drive from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Experience the diverse wildlife from New Zealand and beyond in this popular zoo.
Drive to the zoo, about 15 minutes.
NZD 28, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a local food truck

Grab a quick bite from one of Auckland’s famous food trucks for exciting international flavors.
Short drive from the zoo.
NZD 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Albert Park

Find some peaceful moments in this beautiful park before you leave the city.
Walk to the park, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight home, filled with cherished memories of New Zealand.
Drive to Auckland Airport, about 30 minutes.
NZD 0, 30 minutes
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