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Affordable 12-Day New Zealand Adventure and Cultural Experience

Viewed by 89 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Arrival in Auckland

After landing in Auckland, pick up your rental car and settle into your budget accommodation.
Driving from Auckland Airport to the city center.
AUD100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Visit Auckland Sky Tower

Experience stunning panoramic views of the city from the iconic Sky Tower.
A 15-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy casual fare at this New York-style deli, famous for its reuben and bagels.
A short walk from Sky Tower.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Wander Viaduct Harbour

Take a leisurely walk along the vibrant waterfront and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
15-minute stroll from lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Big J's Takeaways

Grab some fish and chips at this local favorite for dinner.
Drive back to accommodation.
NZD15, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Best Ugly Bagels

Start your day with fresh bagels and coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
15-minute drive from accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Auckland Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of New Zealand with Maori artifacts and natural history exhibits.
Drive 10 minutes to the museum.
NZD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Cigale French Market

Enjoy fresh local produce and French delicacies at this bustling market.
15-minute drive from museum.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Surf at Piha Beach

Experience the rugged beauty of Piha Beach with waves perfect for beginners.
40-minute drive from lunch spot.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Dine on modern New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Drive back to Auckland City Center.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Hobbiton and Rotorua

Hobbiton and Rotorua, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before hitting the road.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Hobbiton

Travel to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set for a magical tour.
1.5-hour drive from Auckland.
NZD75, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Explore the charming set where ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ were filmed.
Tour is guided and provided by Hobbiton.
NZD79, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hobbiton Cafe

Enjoy a Hobbit-themed lunch overlooking the picturesque landscape.
On-site dining at Hobbiton.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Drive to Rotorua

Continue your journey to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity.
1-hour drive from Hobbiton.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and learn about Maori culture.
10-minute drive from accommodation.
NZD60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Eat Streat

End your day indulging in local cuisine on this vibrant street filled with eateries.
Walking distance from Te Puia.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hobbiton and Rotorua

Day 4: Relax in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Accommodation

Enjoy a self-prepared breakfast to start your day right.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Discover stunning geothermal features including bubbling mud pools and colorful hot springs.
30-minute drive from accommodation.
NZD32, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Info Centre Cafe

Grab a bite with a view at the café located at Wai-O-Tapu.
On-site at Wai-O-Tapu.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural thermal pools located by Lake Rotorua; a perfect place for rejuvenation.
Drive back to Rotorua City.
NZD55, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Rotorua Lakefront

Take a peaceful stroll along the waterfront of Rotorua.
10-minute drive from Polynesian Spa.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Tudor Rose

Experience casual dining with a focus on local flavors in the heart of Rotorua.
Drive back to accommodation.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Adventure at Waitomo

Waitomo, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Fuel up with breakfast at your accommodation before leaving.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Head to the famous Waitomo caves to witness glowworms and beautiful limestone formations.
1.5-hour drive from Rotorua.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tour

Join a guided tour to experience the enchanting glowworms and stunning cave passes.
Tour is guided and provided by Waitomo Caves.
NZD55, 1 hour

11:00AM

Black Water Rafting

For the thrill-seekers, experience black water rafting through the caves with stunning rock formations.
Guided experience by Waitomo Adventures.
NZD125, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Waitomo Homestead Cafe

Refuel with a hearty lunch at the on-site café.
On-site dining at Waitomo caves.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive back to Auckland

Return to Auckland to catch your flight to Queenstown.
2-hour drive from Waitomo.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Flight to Queenstown

Catch your domestic flight to Queenstown for your South Island adventure.
Airport drop-off and check-in.
AUD150, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

Savor the legendary burgers from one of the best burger joints in New Zealand.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 6: Discover Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kahawai Cafe

Start with a delicious breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients.
Walking distance from accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the gondola to Bob's Peak for breathtaking views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.
15-minute walk to the gondola station.
NZD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine with a view while enjoying a delicious meal at Stratosfare.
On-site dining at the gondola station.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Experience the adrenaline rush of jet boating skimming through stunning river canyons.
10-minute drive from gardens.
NZD130, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Lake Wakatipu

Find a spot by the lakeside to unwind and take in the scenery.
Directly at the lakefront.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Savor delicious pizzas and hearty meals in a charming alpine ambiance.
Walk back to the restaurant.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 7: Trip to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before you head to Te Anau.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Set out on a scenic drive to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.
2-hour drive from Queenstown.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take a boat trip across Lake Te Anau to see the stunning glowworm caves.
Boat tour provided by Te Anau Tours.
NZD85, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing Restaurant

Dine on contemporary New Zealand cuisine while enjoying lake views.
10-minute walk from the boat terminal.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Te Anau Lakefront

Take a leisurely walk along the lakefront and soak in the picturesque environment.
Directly accessible from The Landing.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Relax a bit before your next adventure.
Drive back to accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Elvins Restaurant

Enjoy fresh local fare in a friendly atmosphere just off the main strip.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 8: Exploring Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Make sure to have a quick breakfast before departing early for Milford Sound.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a spectacular early morning drive to one of the most famous fjords in the world.
1-hour drive from Te Anau.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Join a scenic cruise and marvel at the stunning landscapes of waterfalls and towering cliffs.
Cruise provided by Real Journeys.
NZD89, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kayaking Adventure

Get up close with nature through a kayaking experience in the serene waters of the fjord.
Kayaking tour organized by local providers.
NZD150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a packed lunch with picturesque views during your cruise.
On-board meal.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Free Time in Milford Sound

Explore the area, take photos, and soak up the beauty of Milford Sound.
Directly at Milford Sound.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Head back to Te Anau to relax and recover after the day’s adventures.
Return to vehicle.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savor delightful meals made from local produce at this highly-rated restaurant.
Drive back to Te Anau.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 9: Wander Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Fuel up again with breakfast at your accommodation.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a morning drive to the charming town of Wanaka, known for its beautiful lake and mountains.
1-hour drive from Te Anau.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Wanaka Tree

Snap a famous picture by the iconic tree that stands in the lake.
Drive to the lakefront area.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Explore Rippon Vineyard

Sample delicious local wines amid stunning views over Lake Wanaka.
Drive a short distance to the vineyard.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Francesca's Italian Kitchen

Indulge in a hearty Italian meal with fresh local ingredients.
Drive back to Wanaka township.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk the Wanaka Lakefront Track

Take a gentle walk on the picturesque lakeside track, great for absorbing the local scenery.
Start at the lakefront area.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Puzzling World

Engage your mind at this quirky attraction filled with puzzles and optical illusions.
Drive to Puzzling World.
NZD25, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Room

Enjoy authentic Indian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive back to Wanaka township.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 10: Lake Tekapo Awaits

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Make breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for the day.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Set off for the incredibly scenic Lake Tekapo, famous for its vivid turquoise waters.
1.5-hour drive from Wanaka.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Admire the stunning architecture of the iconic church overlooking the lake.
10-minute drive from the lake.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Lake Tekapo Tavern

Delight in seasonal dishes prepared with local produce.
10-minute drive from the church.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Join a stargazing tour to witness the incredible night sky at this International Dark Sky Reserve.
Sign up with a local tour operator.
NZD50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax by the Lake

Spend time enjoying the stunning lakeside and surrounding mountains.
Directly accessible from your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Blue Lake Eatery

Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients for dinner.
Drive back to accommodation.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 11: Explore Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Prepare breakfast before checking out.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Set off early to experiencing the vibrant city of Christchurch.
3-hour drive from Lake Tekapo.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Christchurch Food Market

Enjoy a variety of delicious street food from local vendors.
Central location in Christchurch.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Christchurch Botanical Gardens

Wander through beautiful gardens and scenic landscapes.
Drive to the botanical gardens.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Christchurch Art Gallery

Visit the contemporary gallery showcasing local New Zealand art.
Short drive from the gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Craft Embassy

Dine on shared plates and regional brews, immersing into the local culinary scene.
Walk from the art gallery.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 12: Departure from Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a final breakfast before departing to the airport.
Self-prepared
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check out and drive to Airport

Finish packing and head to Christchurch Airport for your flight back to Brisbane.
30-minute drive from accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Flight from Christchurch to Brisbane

Bid farewell to beautiful New Zealand as you fly back home.
Check-in and security.
AUD200, Duration of flight is 3 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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