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14-Day Epic Adventure: Discover New Zealand and Brisbane

Viewed by 67 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Federal Delicatessen

Kick off your adventure with a delicious New Zealand breakfast featuring house-made bagels and mighty coffee.
Located in the heart of the city.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Take stunning panoramic views of Auckland and its surroundings from the iconic Sky Tower.
Short walk from the café.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Auckland Waterfront

Stroll along the vibrant waterfront area and soak in the atmosphere.
A short 10-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Fish Market

Enjoy freshly caught seafood at the Auckland Fish Market, a local favorite.
Just a few minutes from Waterfront.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Waiheke Island Day Trip

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island and explore vineyards and beaches.
Ferry leaves from downtown Auckland.
NZD42, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sidart

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at one of Auckland’s finest fine dining restaurants.
Short drive or taxi ride.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Discover Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Start early for a scenic drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
Drive via State Highway 1 and SH5.
Free, 3 hours

10:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Reserve

Explore bubbling mud pools and geysers in this Maori cultural and geothermal park.
15-minute drive from city center.
NZD50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Sample various local bite-sized dishes in Rotorua's vibrant dining precinct.
Short drive from Te Puia.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Walk among the towering redwood trees on a suspended walkway.
5-minute drive from the lunch spot.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural thermal hot pools, a quintessential Rotorua experience.
Short drive from the treewalk.
NZD45, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Factory

Enjoy hearty, locally inspired dishes at this welcoming Rotorua restaurant.
Just a short drive away.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Taupo Adventures

Taupo, New Zealand

8:30AM

Drive to Taupo

Hit the road to Taupo, a picturesque town by New Zealand's largest lake.
Around 1 hour from Rotorua via SH5.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Huka Falls

Marvel at the stunning Huka Falls and capture amazing photos.
10-minute drive from Taupo town.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Jet Boating Experience

Feel the thrill of jet boating on the Waikato River.
Meets at Huka Falls base.
NZD115, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Landing Cafe

Enjoy lake views while indulging in seasonal, local dishes.
Return to Taupo town.
NZD35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lake Taupo Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Taupo to enjoy the scenery.
Walkable from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity at this unique park.
Short drive from the lake.
NZD8, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plateau

Savor fresh, locally sourced cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Short drive back to Taupo town.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Wellington Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Travel to the capital city of New Zealand while taking in scenic landscapes.
Drive via SH1 for approximately 4.5 hours.
Free, 4.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Ciderhouse

Relax at this cozy restaurant with a variety of pies and local ciders.
Prepare for lunch upon arrival in Wellington.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Wellington Cable Car

Take a ride to the top for stunning views of the city and beyond.
Located in the city center.
NZD6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum featuring exhibitions on art, culture, and history.
Short walk from cable car.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Zest Café for Snacks

Grab little bites and recharge after a busy day of exploring.
Walkable from Te Papa.
NZD20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Finc Restaurant

Enjoy beautifully plated dishes focused on fresh, local ingredients.
Short taxi ride from the café.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Journey to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Picton

Head northward to Picton, where the ferry to the South Island awaits you.
Drive via SH1 for about 3.5 hours.
Free, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Picton Waterfront Walk

Take a peaceful stroll along Picton's beautiful waterfront.
Walking distance from the ferry terminal.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Seabreeze Café

Savor delicious, fresh seafood with panoramic harbor views.
10-minute walk from the waterfront.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Catch the Ferry to Wellington

Board the ferry and enjoy beautiful views of the Cook Strait on the way to the South Island.
Ferry terminal is close to the café.
NZD70, 3 hours

5:00PM

Arrival in Wellington

Check-in and rest before dinner, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.
Accommodation in Wellington.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at La Bella Italia

Delight in authentic Italian cuisine in a quaint setting.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD45, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 6: Nelson and the Arts

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel from Wellington to Nelson, the sunniest town in New Zealand.
Drive via SH1 and SH6 for about 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Nelson Market

Dive into local culture at the vibrant farmer's market held on Saturdays.
Town center location.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Hopgoods

Indulge in seasonal dishes crafted with fresh local ingredients.
Short walk from the market.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the World of WearableArt

Explore this renowned museum showcasing wearable art and design.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

McCashin's Brewery Tour

Enjoy a tour of one of New Zealand's best craft breweries and tastings.
Only a 20-minute drive.
NZD30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Styx

Relish comforting meals in a rustic brewery setting.
Back to the town center.
NZD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 7: Franz Josef Glaciers

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Head to the stunning rainforests of Franz Josef, home to majestic glaciers.
Drive via SH6 for about 6 hours, a picturesque journey.
Free, 6 hours

2:00PM

Glacier Walk/Heli-Hike

Explore the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier, either by foot or via a scenic helicopter ride.
Meet at the local tour operator.
NZD400, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Ease your muscles in natural hot pools surrounded by lush rainforests.
5-minute drive from glacier.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Savor delicious dishes sourced from local farms in a cozy atmosphere.
Back in the town center.
NZD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 8: Thrills of Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Queenstown

Travel to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.
Drive via SH6 for around 4 hours.
Free, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Indulge in the legendary burgers that Queenstown is famous for.
Located conveniently in town.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Jet Boat Ride at Shotover River

Feel the adrenaline rush on a thrilling jet boat ride.
Meet at the operator's base.
NZD105, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gondola Ride & Luge

Ride up Bob's Peak for stunning views, and enjoy a fun luge ride down.
Short taxi ride from the jet boat.
NZD75, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savor fine dining that highlights fresh local produce and meat.
Back to town.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 9: Serene Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Depart for the serene town of Te Anau, located near Fiordland.
Drive via SH6 for around 2 hours.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience magical glowworm caves, a unique natural wonder.
Meet at tour operator's office.
NZD75, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Enjoy gourmet bistro-style meals in a cozy setting.
Near the lakefront.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Lake Te Anau

Explore the stunning shores of Lake Te Anau at your leisure.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Milford Sound Dock

Scenic drive to Milford Sound where you'll be greeted by breathtaking landscapes.
Drive via Milford Road for 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Beef & Lamb Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner featuring local beef and lamb.
Back in Te Anau.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 10: Milford Sound Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand

8:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise through the iconic Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
Boarding at Milford Sound Dock.
NZD120, 2 hours

10:30AM

Kayaking Experience

Get up close and personal with the stunning landscapes while kayaking in Milford Sound.
Kayaking operator near dock.
NZD150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Red Boat Café

Enjoy simple, hearty meals at this cozy café with a view.
Back to the Milford Sound café.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Te Anau

Travel back to Te Anau and soak in the scenic drive.
Drive via Milford Road.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Rest and Relax

Take some time to unwind at your accommodation.
Return to your Te Anau hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Moose Bar and Grill

Enjoy delicious pub fare in a laid-back atmosphere.
Walking distance from accommodation.
NZD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 11: Fly to Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Fly to Brisbane

Catch your flight from Queenstown to Brisbane, soaking in last views of New Zealand.
Head to Queenstown Airport.
NZD150, 1 hour (for flight)

10:30AM

Arrival in Brisbane

Arrive in Brisbane and check into your accommodation.
Taxi from airport to city base.
AUD40, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Eat Street Northshore

Sample a range of international cuisines at this lively food market.
Vibrant portion of the city.
AUD30, 2 hours

2:00PM

South Bank Parklands

Explore the scenic South Bank, a hub for art, culture, and entertainment.
Walk from the lunch venue.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Queensland Art Gallery

Check out impressive collections of modern and traditional art.
A short walk from South Bank.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Story Bridge Hotel

Dine in a historic hotel featuring classic Australian fare.
Short taxi ride.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 12: Gold Coast Getaway

Gold Coast, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Gold Coast

Travel to the world-renowned Gold Coast, famous for its beaches.
Take the M1 for a scenic drive of about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Surfers Paradise Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sand at this iconic beach.
Parking available nearby.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Elk Espresso

Enjoy vibrant dishes with a focus on fresh local ingredients at this favorite brunch spot.
Short walk from the beach.
AUD35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Gold Coast Theme Parks

Choose from exhilarating theme parks like Dreamworld, Movie World, or Sea World.
Short drive from brunch.
AUD100, 5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cuban

Enjoy Latin-inspired dining with a relaxed vibe.
Back to Surfers Paradise.
AUD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Gold Coast

Day 13: Chill at Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Noosa Heads

Shift gears and head to vibrant Noosa Heads for stunning coastal scenery.
Take the scenic route via the Pacific Highway to reach in 2 hours.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Relax at Noosa Main Beach

Soak in the sun and enjoy the surf at this stunning beach.
Walking distance from parking.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bistro C

Dine on delicious Australian cuisine with breathtaking beach views.
Short walk from the beach.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Noosa National Park

Explore coastal walking tracks with picturesque landscapes in this stunning national park.
Access the park from the beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Noosa Beach House

Savor coastal-inspired dishes at this upscale beach house restaurant.
Short drive from the park.
AUD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Noosa Heads

Day 14: Brisbane Farewell

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Morning Coffee at Merlo Coffee

Kickstart your final day with a local coffee at this beloved café.
Located near your accommodation.
AUD5, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Explore Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Take a peaceful stroll through these lush gardens in the city center.
Short walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Cultural Walk at Brisbane City Hall

Discover the history and architecture of this iconic building and its surroundings.
A short walk from the gardens.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Tukka Aussie Restaurant

End your journey with authentic Australian cuisine in a rustic setting.
Short taxi ride from the city hall.
AUD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Queen Street Mall

Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs and experiencing city life.
Main street accessible by foot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Farewell Brisbane

Wrap up your incredible journey with a farewell to Brisbane before departing.
Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Brisbane
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