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Epic Family Adventure: Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 131 travelers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eighthirty Coffee

Start your day with fresh coffee and a delightful breakfast at Eighthirty Coffee, famous for its locally sourced ingredients.
Located in the heart of Auckland, only a short walk from your camper van.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Family fun awaits at Auckland Zoo, where you can explore diverse animal habitats and enjoy educational talks.
Drive 15 minutes from the cafe to the zoo.
NZD60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Relish a hearty lunch featuring local produce and a variety of delicious dishes.
Just a 10-minute drive from the zoo.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Sky Tower Visit

Take in panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower observation deck; it's a must-do for first-time visitors.
A quick 10-minute drive will take you to Sky Tower.
NZD45, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into your Campervan

Settle into your camper van at a local holiday park and get ready for your road trip adventure.
Drive to the park close to the city center about 15 minutes away.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

Enjoy a unique dining experience at the revolving restaurant atop the Sky Tower, offering stunning city views.
Head back to the Sky Tower (10 minutes) for dinner.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Journey to Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the camper van

Enjoy a breakfast prepared in your camper van featuring the essentials you stocked up on.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Head out on your journey to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal wonders.
Approx. a 3-hour scenic drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Savor delicious meals from a variety of food stalls along the lakeside promenade.
Find parking at the nearby lots and walk to the promenade.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Puia

Explore Maori culture and witness stunning geysers and hot springs at Te Puia.
Only a 10-minute drive away.
NZD60, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax in Polynesian Spa

Unwind in the natural thermal hot pools while the kids enjoy the family-friendly pools.
A 5-minute drive will get you there.
NZD100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Rotorua Night Market

Explore the vibrant market filled with local food and artisans every Thursday night.
Just a 10-minute drive from your spa getaway.
NZD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Adventure in Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shack

Start the day with fresh brews and delicious pastries at this beloved local cafe.
Drive to the cafe from the holiday park, about 15 minutes.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Taupo

Embark on a short drive to Taupo, famed for its stunning lake views and adventure activities.
Approx. 1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

10:15AM

Huka Falls Visit

Marvel at the beauty of Huka Falls, where you can take photos and learn about its geology.
Driving time is 15 minutes from Taupo town.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed

Enjoy lakefront dining and fresh seafood with a picturesque view.
A 10-minute drive from the falls.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Boat Cruise on Lake Taupo

Experience stunning views of the lake and unique rock formations on a family-friendly cruise.
Board the tour near the Boat Shed.
NZD150, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into Taupo Holiday Park

Set up and relax at the family-friendly holiday park close to Taupo.
Drive to the park, 15 minutes away.
NZD70, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Lakeview Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious steak dinner with a view of the lake as the sun sets.
Just a 5-minute drive from the holiday park.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Nature at Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at camper van

Fuel up for the day with breakfast cooked right in your camper van.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Start your scenic drive towards the breathtaking Tongariro National Park.
Approx. 1-hour drive from Taupo.
N/A, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tackle the famous hiking trail known for its incredible scenery; family-friendly options available.
Begin the trek directly from the visitor center.
Free, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch along the trail

Pack a picnic to enjoy amid the stunning landscapes.
Find a scenic spot on the trail.
NZD40, 1 hour

4:00PM

Finish Hike and return to camper van

Relax and regroup in your camper van after an exhilarating day outdoors.
Return to the starting point of the hike.
N/A, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Cafe

Dine at the local cafe specializing in hearty meals and delicious desserts.
Drive to the cafe in the nearby village, about 15 minutes.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tongariro National Park

Day 5: Cultural Day in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Hangar

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast with local ingredients to kickstart your day.
N/A during the drive to Wellington.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Wellington

Make your way to the capital city, where culture and stunning views await.
Approx. 4-hour drive through the scenic roads.
N/A, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fidel's Cafe

This vibrant eatery offers fresh, delicious options including burgers and salads.
Located in the city center, a short drive from where you park your van.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa

Explore New Zealand's national museum showcasing art, culture, and history, perfect for kids.
Walk to the museum from the cafe, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city as you ascend to the Botanical Gardens.
Head to the cable car station which is a 10-minute walk from Te Papa.
NZD20, 1 hour

5:30PM

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the stunning gardens featuring beautiful plants and walking trails.
Enjoy the garden stroll at your leisure.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Old Quarter

Savor Asian fusion dishes with a unique twist in this cozy downtown restaurant.
Make your way back by walking for about 10 minutes.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 6: Scenic Ferry to Picton

Picton, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast in the camper van

Prepare another tasty breakfast in your camper van as you gear up for your journey.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Ferry Terminal

Head to the ferry terminal to catch the ferry to Picton, enjoying more stunning views.
Just a short drive of about 10 minutes.
N/A, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Ferry ride to Picton

Relax and soak in the breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds during the ferry ride.
Board the ferry at the terminal, a convenient process.
NZD130, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Garrison Restaurant

Enjoy meals with fresh local produce while overlooking the harbor.
Just a few minutes' drive from the ferry terminal.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Picton Waterfront

Wander around the charming waterfront and enjoy various shops and galleries.
Take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into Picton Holiday Park

Get settled in your camper van at a scenic holiday park near the waterfront.
Only a short drive from the waterfront.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Foam Café

Delight in an array of lovely meals focusing on fresh seafood and local dishes.
A quick drive back to the waterfront area.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Picton

Day 7: Nature and Adventure in Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at camper van

Fuel up for a day of adventures with breakfast in your camper van.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Enjoy the scenic drive to Nelson, known for its adventure activities and beautiful beaches.
Approx. 2-hour drive.
N/A, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Abel Tasman National Park

Explore the stunning beaches, hiking trails, and beautiful landscapes of this natural gem.
Drive to the park entrance, about 30 minutes from Nelson.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Park Café

Dine with gorgeous views of the park as your backdrop.
A quick visit to the café within the park area.
NZD50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience an unforgettable kayaking adventure through the stunning coastline and hidden coves.
Book a guided tour directly in the park.
NZD150, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Bach Mediterranean Restaurant

Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine with a local twist in this charming restaurant.
Drive back to Nelson city center, about 30 minutes.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nelson

Day 8: Wildlife Encounter in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at camper van

Whip up a hearty breakfast to prepare for an exciting wildlife day.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel to the scenic town of Kaikoura, famous for its marine life and stunning coastline.
Approx. a 2-hour drive.
N/A, 2 hours

10:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an exhilarating boat trip for a chance to see majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Meet at the tour base in Kaikoura.
NZD200, 3.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy a meal with local seafood delicacies while overlooking the ocean.
Only a short drive from the tour base.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kaikoura Peninsula

Take a leisurely walk along the scenic peninsula and enjoy spotting fur seals along the coast.
Drive to the peninsula, only 10 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into Kaikoura Holiday Park

Settle in at this cozy park offering great amenities for families.
Short drive from the peninsula.
NZD70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Green Dolphin Restaurant

Savor delicious local cuisine and fine wine at this renowned restaurant.
A brief drive from the park, less than 10 minutes.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kaikoura

Day 9: Final Stop in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at camper van

Prepare a final breakfast in your camper van, reminiscing about your journey.
N/A
NZD20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Enjoy one last scenic drive as you make your way to the vibrant city of Christchurch.
About 2-hour drive.
N/A, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through beautiful gardens showcasing a variety of plants and flowers.
Located in the city center, parking nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Laboratory

Experience a unique dining concept with a quirky atmosphere and delectable dishes.
Just a short drive or walk from the gardens.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Quake City

Learn about Christchurch's resilience through exhibits showcasing the impact of the 2011 earthquake.
A 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
NZD35, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into Christchurch Holiday Park

Wrap up your adventure and relax in the comfort of your holiday park.
Drive to the park, just 10 minutes away.
NZD70, 1 hour

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant

Toast to your incredible journey with a delicious farewell dinner featuring local favorites.
Short 10-minute drive to the restaurant.
NZD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch
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