Ultimate 10-Day Adventure in New Zealand: Family Friendly Fun and Nature Escapes

Day 1: Arrive and Explore

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Sky Tower Visit

Start your adventure soaring above the city at the Sky Tower, enjoying panoramic views of Auckland and beyond.
Sky Tower is located in the heart of Auckland; easily reachable by public transport.
NZD32, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Orbit

Have a delightful lunch revolving high above the city at Orbit, the Sky Tower's restaurant offering breathtaking views and delicious meals.
Located within the Sky Tower.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s history and culture as you wander through the exhibits and Maori artifacts at the Auckland Museum.
A 15-minute drive or 30 minutes by public transport from the Sky Tower.
NZD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll at Auckland Domain

Unwind in Auckland's oldest park, the Domain, featuring beautiful gardens and lovely walking paths.
Adjacent to the Auckland Museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sean's Kitchen

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a lovely ambiance at Sean's Kitchen, savoring local New Zealand dishes.
Located in the SkyCity complex.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Culture and Nature

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little Bird Organics

Start your day with healthy organic options at Little Bird Organics for a nourishing breakfast.
Only a short drive away from the city center.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waiheke Island

Take a scenic ferry ride to Waiheke Island, experiencing stunning beaches and renowned vineyards.
Ferry leaves from Auckland CBD, takes about 40 minutes.
NZD40 round trip, 3 hours including ferry time

12:30PM

Lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard

Indulge in lunch with a view at Mudbrick Vineyard, where you can savor locally produced wines.
Easily reachable by taxi or a short walk from the waterfront.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Oneroa Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Oneroa Beach, perfect for kids with its safe, shallow waters.
A 10-minute drive or walk from Mudbrick Vineyard.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Auckland

Catch the ferry back to Auckland to relax before dinner.
Ferries run regularly back to Auckland.
Covered in earlier costs, 40 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Dine at The Glasshouse, offering a fantastic menu that highlights seasonal ingredients.
Located in central Auckland, easily reachable by Uber or public transport.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure Awaits

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Rotorua

Hit the road early for Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and beautiful lakes.
The drive takes about 3 hours; consider breakfast snacks for the road.
NZD20 for snacks, 3.5 hours with stops

11:30AM

Redwoods Treewalk

Experience the thrill of walking high above the forest floor on the Redwoods Treewalk.
Located just outside of the city center, easily reached by car.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Head to Eat Streat for a variety of food options, perfect for the family with picky eaters.
Located in Rotorua’s city center.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Te Puia

Immerse your family in Maori culture and geothermal wonders at Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser.
A short 5-minute drive from Eat Streat.
NZD60, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the rejuvenating waters of the Polynesian Spa, a favorite for families.
Located close to the city center.
NZD70 for family pass, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Skyline Rotorua

End your day with a delicious dinner at Skyline Rotorua, complete with stunning views over the city.
Accessed via a gondola ride.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 4: More of Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Capers, known for its delicious menu and friendly atmosphere.
Located in central Rotorua.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kuirau Park

Explore the geothermal park where you can see bubbling mud pools and relaxing paths.
A short drive from the café, easy to find.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Zorb Rotorua

Experience the thrill of Zorbing, rolling downhill in a giant inflatable ball - great fun for the kids!
Located about 15 minutes outside Rotorua; a car or taxi is recommended.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Dog

Enjoy a delightful and delicious lunch at The Fat Dog, a family-friendly café famous for its burgers.
Located near the city center.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve

Indulge in some nature walks and enjoy spectacular views of Rotorua city and lake.
A short 15-minute drive from The Fat Dog.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine in style with breathtaking views at the Stratosfare Restaurant, rotating for a panoramic experience.
Located at Skyline Rotorua.
NZD70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Capital City Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Wellington

Leave picturesque Rotorua and drive down to Wellington, New Zealand's capital, filled with culture and excitement.
The journey takes about 5 hours.
NZD20 for snacks, 6 hours with stops

2:00PM

Lunch at Fidel’s Cafe

Stop for an early lunch at Fidel’s Cafe, famous for its rustic vibe and hearty meals.
Located in the heart of Wellington.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Te Papa Museum

Visit the national museum of New Zealand, where kids will love interactive exhibits and the colossal squid!
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Cable Car Ride

Take a fun ride on the Wellington Cable Car to the Botanical Gardens, a favorite with families.
Cable car station located near the museum.
NZD8, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The White House

Enjoy dinner at The White House, a family-friendly restaurant serving local cuisine.
Easily accessible from the Botanical Gardens.
NZD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Gateway to Paradise

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Nelson

Transition from Wellington to Nelson by catching a scenic morning flight to this picturesque city famous for its sunshine.
Airport is close to the city center.
NZD100, 1 hour flight

10:00AM

Breakfast at Urban Ore

Have a delightful breakfast at Urban Ore, known for its local, fresh ingredients and family-friendly options.
Short drive from Nelson Airport.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Nelson Market

Visit the vibrant Nelson Market for unique crafts and delicious local produce that's fun for the whole family.
Located in the city center.
Free; bring NZD20 for crafts., 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed

Savor lunch by the waterfront at The Boat Shed with fresh seafood and local wines.
Short walk from the market.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Centre of New Zealand

Hike or walk to the Centre of New Zealand for magnificent views over Nelson and the bay.
Accessible via a short 15-minute walk from the city center.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hopgoods Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Hopgoods with locally sourced ingredients; it's a treat for the family.
Walking distance from the city center.
NZD80, 2 hours
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Day 7: Beach and Trek

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Travel to Abel Tasman

Set off early for a day trip to stunning Abel Tasman National Park, renowned for its golden beaches and coastal tracks.
Drive takes about 1 hour to reach the park.
NZD20 for snacks., 1.5 hours

8:30AM

Break at Bark Bay

Enjoy a packed breakfast picnic at beautiful Bark Bay surrounded by nature.
Access it by walking or water taxi from the park entrance.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Go Kayaking

Kayak the stunning coastline of the national park, exploring secret coves and beaches.
Book a guided kayaking tour in advance.
NZD100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Park Café

Indulge in a casual lunch at the Park Café, offering great food near the beach.
Located within the park.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Beach Time at Onetahuti Beach

Wrap up your adventure with a relaxing time at Onetahuti Beach, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Easily reachable from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nelson

Head back to Nelson after an adventurous day at Abel Tasman.
Drive back takes about an hour.
Covered in earlier costs, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Vic

Refuel with a hearty meal at The Vic, known for great pub food that's family friendly.
Central Nelson location.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: South Island Wonders

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Christchurch

Leave Nelson and drive to Christchurch, which is known for its beautiful gardens and architecture.
The drive takes about 5 hours.
NZD20 for snacks., 6 hours with stops

2:00PM

Lunch at the Spice Paragon

Taste the flavors of Southeast Asia with authentic dishes at Spice Paragon.
Located in the central city.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a great spot for everyone in the family.
Just a short drive from Spice Paragon.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Take a Tram Ride

Hop on the iconic Christchurch Tram for a guided tour of the city, a fun adventure for the family.
Trams are accessible throughout the city center.
NZD25, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlesticks

Enjoy dinner at Fiddlesticks, a relaxed dining spot serving modern New Zealand cuisine.
Located near the Botanic Gardens.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel to Queenstown

Drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, filled with excitement and breathtaking scenery.
A scenic trip that takes around 6 hours.
NZD20 for snacks., 7 hours with breaks

3:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Grab an iconic burger from Fergburger, a must-visit spot in Queenstown for its gigantic size and great flavors.
Located in central Queenstown.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, perfect for family picnics and games.
Just a short walk from Fergburger.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Take the Skyline Gondola

Experience a breathtaking view of Queenstown from the skyline gondola and possibly ride a luge.
Located at the base of the mountain accessible via local transport.
NZD55, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Cow

Wind down your day with dinner at The Cow, an old-world pizzeria specializing in delicious Italian food.
Located centrally in Queenstown.
NZD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Magnificent Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Travel to Milford Sound

Set off early to explore the serene beauty of Milford Sound, known for its stunning fiords and majestic landscapes.
The drive is approximately 2 hours from Queenstown.
NZD20 for snacks., 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Cruise on Milford Sound

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, surrounded by pristine waterfalls and towering cliffs.
Book your cruise in advance; docking point is easy to find.
NZD90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Cafe

Enjoy lunch at the Milford Sound Café, known for its homely meals with stunning views.
Conveniently located near the cruise terminal.
NZD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hike in Fiordland National Park

Explore trails in Fiordland National Park and admire the stunning landscapes surrounding you.
Various trails are accessible from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Queenstown

Head back to Queenstown, reminiscing about the day’s experiences in a breathtaking setting.
Drive back takes around 2.5 hours.
Covered in earlier costs, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Saffron

End your holiday with a splendid dinner at Saffron, known for its fine dining experience featuring local produce.
Located centrally in Queenstown.
NZD90, 2 hours
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