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14-Day New Zealand Family Adventure: Nature, Cities, and Culinary Delights

Viewed by 75 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

10:00AM

Arrive in Auckland

After settling into your accommodation, kick off your New Zealand adventure by exploring the bustling city.
Airport shuttle or rental car to hotel.
NZD 50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Enjoy casual dining with locally sourced ingredients at this popular eatery, famed for its oysters and seasonal dishes.
Drive to 86 Federal St, a quick 10-minute ride.
NZD 75, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Sky Tower Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking views of the Auckland skyline from the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
15-minute walk from Depot Eatery.
NZD 32, 2 hours

5:00PM

Auckland Domain Park

Relax in one of Auckland's oldest parks, perfect for a stroll and learning about native flora.
Drive to Auckland Domain, around 10 minutes from Sky Tower.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

Finish the day with a rotating dining experience at Orbit, where you can enjoy a meal with panoramic views.
Return to Sky Tower to dine.
NZD 120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Cultural Experiences in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Glasshouse

Delight in a contemporary breakfast approach featuring local produce, located in the central city.
5-minute drive from hotel.
NZD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover New Zealand's history and culture through fascinating exhibits at this iconic museum.
Drive to the museum, about 5 minutes from breakfast spot.
NZD 25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tom Tom Bar & Eatery

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with a diverse menu right next to the stunning waterfront.
15-minute drive from the museum.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Waiheke Island

Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for stunning beaches and unique art galleries.
Ferry terminal is near Tom Tom Bar.
NZD 40, Half-day excursion

6:00PM

Dinner at Cable Bay Vineyards

Taste excellent local wines paired with gourmet cuisine surrounded by breathtaking vineyard views.
Short drive from the ferry terminal on Waiheke.
NZD 130, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 3: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a continental breakfast before embarking on your journey.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Take a scenic 3-hour drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and rich Maori culture.
Rental car journey along State Highway 1.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Street

Experience a vibrant atmosphere with various food options from around the world.
Short drive to Eat Street, located downtown.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore the geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences at Te Puia, where you can see the world-famous Pohutu Geyser.
Drive to Te Puia, about 5 minutes away.
NZD 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Indulge in thermal pools perfect for family relaxation after a day of exploration.
10-minute drive from Te Puia to the spa.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Stratosfare Rotorua

Enjoy a buffet dinner with stunning views of Lake Rotorua.
Short drive to the restaurant located on the hill.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 4: Adventure Activities in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for an adventurous day with a hearty breakfast.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

White Water Rafting

Get the adrenaline pumping with family-friendly whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River.
Company transport provided.
NZD 140/pax, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Dog

Enjoy a relaxed, casual atmosphere perfect for families, serving gourmet burgers and pizzas.
Return to Rotorua town, about 30 minutes away.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Zorbing Experience

Experience the thrill of rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball, a unique Rotorua activity.
Drive to Zorb location, about 15 minutes from lunch.
NZD 40/pax, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Redwoods Treewalk

Take an elevated walkway through majestic redwoods, offering a bird's-eye view of the stunning forest.
10-minute drive from Zorb to the Treewalk.
NZD 29, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Salty's Rotorua

Dine on waterfront views while enjoying fresh seafood and other local dishes to end the day.
Drive back towards the city, approximately 10 minutes.
NZD 85, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 5: Lake Taupo Exploration

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast to prepare for travel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Enjoy a scenic drive of about 1 hour to Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand.
Take State Highway 5.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the power of nature as you explore the beautiful Huka Falls, known for its stunning turquoise waters.
Drive 10 minutes to the attractions.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lake Taupo Boat Cruise

Take a relaxing boat cruise; spot the famous Maori rock carvings along the way.
Depart from Taupo Marina.
NZD 50/pax, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Brazz

Enjoy a casual lunch featuring an array of choices including gluten-free and vegan options.
Short walk from the marina.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Craters of the Moon

Explore geothermal landscapes filled with unique flora and otherworldly scenery.
Drive from lunch, about 10 minutes.
NZD 10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Vine Eatery

Dine on delicious local cuisine made from fresh, organic ingredients.
Drive back towards Taupo town, about 10 min.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 6: Travel to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a farewell breakfast in Taupo before heading on to the capital.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Take a scenic 4-hour drive to Wellington, the windy capital of New Zealand.
Follow State Highway 1.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Experience eclectic dining and coffee culture on this vibrant street lined with unique eateries.
Drive to Cuba Street, approximately 15 minutes from your hotel.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum, featuring engaging exhibits about the country’s natural and cultural heritage.
Walk to the museum, about 15 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Take a scenic ride to the Kelburn lookout for breathtaking views of the city and harbor.
Walk to the cable car terminal, 10 minutes from Te Papa.
NZD 8/pax, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Botanist

Savor seasonal dishes made with local ingredients while enjoying a casual atmosphere.
15-minute walk from the cable car.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 7: Explore Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Floriditas

Start your day with delicious breakfast options at this popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Zealandia

Engage in eco-tourism at Zealandia, a sanctuary for native wildlife just outside the city center.
Drive, about 15 minutes from the café.
NZD 19/pax, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Karaka Cafe

Discover a family-friendly café surrounded by the sanctuary, offering locally sourced dishes.
On-site at Zealandia.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Catch a Wellington Windy Tour

Experience the city's quirky culture and fascinating history on this engaging guided tour.
Arrange the tour at Zealandia or your hotel.
NZD 45/pax, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Wellington Botanic Garden

Enjoy beautiful landscapes and stunning gardens perfect for family photos.
Drive or walk, about 10 minutes to the gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in an upscale dining experience featuring fresh local ingredients prepared with creativity.
15-minute drive from the gardens.
NZD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 8: Travel to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast to fuel up for the travel day ahead.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Nelson

Take a quick flight to Nelson, known for its beautiful beaches and artistic community.
Airport transfer to Wellington Airport.
NZD 100/pax, 1 hour flight time

11:00AM

Arrive in Nelson

Transfer to your accommodation and settle in before lunch.
Transfer from Nelson Airport to hotel, about 15 minutes.
NZD 30, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at The Styx

Dine in a relaxed café atmosphere, famous for their seasonal dishes.
Short drive or walk from your hotel.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Nelson Market

Spend the afternoon wandering through the local artisan market filled with fresh produce and handmade goods.
Short drive to the market area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Tahunanui Beach

End your day with relaxation at this family-friendly beach, great for swimming and sunbathing.
10-minute drive from the market.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Epicurean

Enjoy a delicious meal at this restaurant committed to fresh, local cuisine.
Short drive or walk from the beach.
NZD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Get ready for an exciting day with an early breakfast.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Take the 1-hour drive to the park known for its stunning coastlines and forest walks.
Rental car to park entrance.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking Adventure

Explore the beautiful bays of Abel Tasman by kayak, spotting wildlife along the way.
Company transport provided to kayaking base.
NZD 85/pax, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Awaroa Lodge

Replenish with a casual lunch at Awaroa Lodge on the beach; perfect after kayaking.
A short hike or kayak from the beach.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Coastal Walk

Hike a portion of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, taking in scenic views and native flora.
Begin the walk right from Awaroa Lodge.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nelson

Wrap up your day with the drive back to Nelson.
Drive back to Nelson, about 1 hour.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's Restaurant

End the day with an exquisite dining experience featuring innovative dishes and local wines.
Short drive or walk from hotel.
NZD 140, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Abel Tasman

Day 10: Travel to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast in preparation for a busy day of travel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Queenstown

Catch a local flight to Queenstown, famous for its adventure sports.
Transfer to Nelson Airport.
NZD 100/pax, 1 hour flight time

11:00AM

Arrive in Queenstown

Settle into your accommodation and get ready for lunch.
Transfer from Queenstown Airport to hotel, about 15 minutes.
NZD 30, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Taste the iconic Fergburger, known for its gourmet burgers and delicious sides.
Short walk from your hotel.
NZD 60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Skyline Gondola Experience

Take the gondola up for breathtaking views and optional luge rides down the hill.
Close proximity, 10-minute walk from lunch.
NZD 50/pax, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens, ideal for a family picnic.
5-minute walk from the gondola.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savor exquisite dishes with a focus on local ingredients in a sophisticated setting.
10-minute walk from gardens.
NZD 120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 11: Adventure Day in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Get energized with a hearty breakfast before an action-packed day.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bungee Jumping or Zip Lining

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge or a scenic zip lining adventure through the forest.
Transfers provided by the adventure companies.
NZD 200/pax for bungee or NZD 150/pax for zip lining., 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Dig into hearty Italian pizzas and pasta in this cozy eatery set in a historic alpine lodge.
Return to main town area, approximately 20 minutes.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Jet Boat Ride

Soak up adrenaline with a thrilling jet boat ride through the Shotover river canyons.
Transfers provided from the restaurant.
NZD 100/pax, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore the Kiwi Birdlife Park

Learn about New Zealand's unique wildlife and see the beloved kiwi bird up close.
Short drive from jet boat dock.
NZD 40/pax, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Conclude the day with a unique dining experience in a cozy, intimate setting.
Drive back into town, around 5 minutes.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 12: Te Anau and Fiordland Adventures

Te Anau, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Te Anau.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Take the scenic drive of about 2 hours to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Follow State Highway 94.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Discover magical glowworm caves, a must-see for families offering scenic boat rides.
Transfer to boat, about 10 minutes walk.
NZD 66/pax, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Relish a delectable lunch at a cozy café known for its fresh produce and local flavors.
Short drive from the caves.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cruise on Lake Te Anau

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the picturesque Lake Te Anau, discovering the beauty of Fiordland.
Depart from the same pier as the glowworm caves.
NZD 50/pax, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to accommodation

End the day with some time to relax before dinner.
Return walk to hotel, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Tree

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a menu highlighting local ingredients.
Drive from hotel to town center, about 5 minutes.
NZD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 13: Milford Sound Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day early to prepare for the full-day Milford Sound tour.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

7:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Take the scenic 1.5-hour drive to Milford Sound, renowned for its stunning scenery.
Take State Highway 94; plan ahead for parking.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Experience the majestic beauty of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, perfect for spotting wildlife and waterfalls.
Depart from Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 90/pax, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at the Milford Sound Café

Enjoy a casual lunch at the café with picturesque views surrounding you.
Located near the bus terminal.
NZD 70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Take the scenic drive back to Te Anau after your Milford experience.
Follow State Highway 94.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Te Anau

Wander around Te Anau, a quaint town offering beautiful lakeside views and walking trails.
Walk from your accommodation, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Redcliff Café

Wrap up your day with delightful dishes and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Return drive to town center, about 5 minutes.
NZD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 14: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have your final breakfast in Te Anau before heading back to Auckland.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Queenstown Airport

Head to Queenstown Airport for your flight back to Auckland.
Drive about 2 hours to the airport.
NZD 0 (rental costs), 2 hours

12:00PM

Flight to Auckland

Catch your flight back to Auckland.
Airplane transfer.
NZD 100/pax, 1 hour flight time

2:00PM

Arrive in Auckland

Transfer to your accommodation in Auckland and relax for a bit.
Transfer back from Auckland Airport to hotel.
NZD 50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Farewell Lunch at Soul Bar & Bistro

Celebrate your New Zealand adventure with a farewell lunch overlooking the waterfront.
Short drive from the hotel.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Auckland Viaduct

Stroll along the Auckland Viaduct and enjoy the lively atmosphere before heading home.
Walk from restaurant, approximately 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland
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