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Ultimate 9-Day Adventure Road Trip Through New Zealand's South Island Ending in Christchurch

Viewed by 188 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Queenstown, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at Frank's Cafe

Kick off your adventure with a delicious breakfast while soaking in the stunning views.
Located centrally in Queenstown.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Ride the Skyline Gondola

Ascend the hill for breathtaking views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
A short walk from the café.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

After descending, grab a world-famous Fergburger for an unforgettable lunch.
Located in the central area.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Jack's Point

Take a drive to Jack's Point for spectacular views and a leisurely walk along the lake.
A scenic 20-minute drive from Queenstown.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at your accommodation

Settle into your chosen hotel or lodge and relax before the evening.
Many options are available in Queenstown.
NZD200, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Stroll along Lake Wakatipu

Enjoy a gentle stroll along the waterfront of Lake Wakatipu as the sun sets.
Easy access from most accommodations.
NZD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Indulge in a fine dining experience with locally sourced dishes and an extensive wine list.
Located in Queenstown’s waterfront area.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 2: Fiordland Adventure

Milford Sound & Te Anau, New Zealand

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast to kick-start an exciting day ahead.
Onsite at your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a scenic drive through the Fiordland National Park towards Milford Sound.
Approximately 2-hour drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

9:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Join a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, surrounded by towering mountains and waterfalls.
Board the cruise at Milford terminal.
NZD120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Enjoy a quick lunch at the café before your return journey.
Located near the cruise terminal.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Te Anau

Head to the lovely town of Te Anau, your base for exploring Fiordland.
A beautiful 2-hour drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle in at your accommodation and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Many lodging options available.
NZD150, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savour mouth-watering dishes at this beloved local eatery.
Located centrally in Te Anau.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound & Te Anau

Day 3: Te Anau to Wanaka

Te Anau & Wanaka, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation overlooking the serene lake.
Onsite at your accommodation.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Journey towards Wanaka, renowned for its stunning landscapes.
Approximately a 2-hour drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Wanaka Tree

Marvel at the iconic lone tree that stands in Lake Wanaka, perfect for photos.
Access via lakefront.
NZD0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Blue Pools

Take a short drive to see the stunning Blue Pools and walk along the suspension bridge.
About 30 minutes from Wanaka.
NZD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Savour gourmet lunch featuring fresh local ingredients.
Back in Wanaka, by the lakefront.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Puzzling World Visit

Enjoy an afternoon of quirky visual illusions and interactive exhibits.
Short drive from The Landing.
NZD30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Relax in your hotel or lodge, enjoying the gorgeous views.
Various options in Wanaka.
NZD150, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

Experience fine dining in a lovely setting with seasonal menus.
Located nearby your accommodation.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau & Wanaka

Day 4: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with breakfast before your journey to the glacier.
Onsite at your accommodation.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes on your way to the glacier.
About a 3.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Hike

Join a guided tour to explore the stunning glacier and ice formations.
Meet your guide near the glacier.
NZD200, 3 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at The Landing Café

Refuel with a delicious meal at this popular local café.
Close to the glacier area.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Glacial Hot Pools

Unwind in the soothing hot pools after an exhilarating day of adventure.
Located near the glacier.
NZD60, 2 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into your lodge and enjoy a restful evening.
Various options available near the glacier.
NZD150, 30 minutes

8:00PM

Dinner at The Restaurant at Waldhaus

Indulge in an exquisite dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Located close to your accommodation.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 5: Scenic Drive to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your lodge

Enjoy breakfast amidst the stunning backdrop of the glacier.
Onsite at your accommodation.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Journey to Lake Tekapo, famous for its beautiful blue waters.
Approximately a 5-hour scenic drive.
NZD0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into your lakeside lodge with stunning views.
Lodging options are available at Lake Tekapo.
NZD150, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Admire this iconic church located on the shores of Lake Tekapo.
Short drive or walk from your lodge.
NZD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stargazing at Mt John Observatory

Experience the night sky and stunning views at this renowned observatory.
Short drive to the observatory.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mackenzie's Café

Savour local dishes highlighting the region's produce.
Conveniently located in Tekapo Village.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 6: Mount Cook Highlights

Mount Cook & Lake Pukaki, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at your lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading towards Mount Cook.
Onsite at your lodge.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Embark on a scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Hike the Hooker Valley Track

Explore the picturesque Hooker Valley Track leading to stunning glacier views.
Park at Hooker Valley car park.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hermitage Hotel

Indulge in a delightful meal paired with spectacular mountain views.
Located in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Lake Pukaki

Stop by Lake Pukaki for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
On your way towards Christchurch.
NZD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Christchurch

Head to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island.
Approximately a 3-hour drive.
NZD0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into your hotel and relax before dinner.
Multiple lodging options in Christchurch.
NZD150, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at The Press Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients in the heart of the city.
Easily accessible from your hotel.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook & Lake Pukaki

Day 7: Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation.
Onsite at your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning Botanic Gardens and enjoy the tranquil environment.
Short drive or walk from your hotel.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Discover the history and natural environment of New Zealand at this fascinating museum.
Located near the Botanic Gardens.
NZD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Caffeine Laboratory

Grab lunch at this trendy café known for its excellent coffee and innovative menu.
A short drive from the museum.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Take a Tram Tour

Enjoy a scenic tram tour of Christchurch to see the city's beautiful sites.
Board the tram at Cathedral Square.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore New Regent Street

Stroll along this picturesque street with colourful buildings and boutique shops.
Just a short walk from Tram stops.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Dining Room

End your day with a sophisticated dining experience in a beautifully designed restaurant.
Located in the heart of Christchurch.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 8: Adventure to Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before taking a scenic drive to Akaroa.
Onsite at your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Akaroa

Set off on a journey to the picturesque French-inspired town of Akaroa.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Akaroa Harbour

Take a scenic cruise around the harbor to spot dolphins and enjoy the coastal views.
Board the cruise from the harbour.
NZD90, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ma Maison

Savour a delightful lunch featuring local produce in a charming setting.
Located in the heart of Akaroa.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Giant's House

Marvel at the beautiful mosaic garden and art installations at this unique location.
Just a short walk from the dining area.
NZD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Christchurch

Head back to Christchurch, taking time to relax and reflect on your journey.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Arrive back in Christchurch for your last night.
Numerous options available in Christchurch.
NZD150, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

Experience an unforgettable dining experience on a moving tram while enjoying local delicacies.
Board at the tram station.
NZD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Akaroa

Day 9: Wrap-Up & Departure

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Christchurch and prepare for your departure.
Onsite at your hotel.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return Rental Car

Return your rental car before heading to the airport.
Car rental companies are near the airport.
NZD0, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Depart for Airport

Catch your flight from Christchurch International Airport, concluding your NZ adventure.
30-minute drive to the airport.
NZD0, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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