9-Day Family Adventure Road Trip from Auckland to Christchurch

Day 1: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Club

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Coffee Club, enjoying their famous Eggs Benedict.
Located in downtown Auckland, easily accessible by walking or rental car.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Head over to the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond.
A short 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from breakfast.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of New Zealand at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
A short 10-minute drive from Sky Tower.
NZD28, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at La Cigale, a bustling French market offering delightful pastries and fresh local dishes.
Just a 5-minute drive away from the museum.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Auckland Zoo

Spend an afternoon watching unique wildlife at the renowned Auckland Zoo, featuring native and exotic species.
A 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
NZD25, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Michael's Restaurant

Wind down your day with a fantastic dinner at Michael's, serving exquisite local dishes in a child-friendly environment.
A 10-minute drive from the zoo.
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 2: Rotorua's Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Capers Epicurean before heading out of Auckland.
Located downtown, a brief drive from your accommodation.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy the scenic drive to Rotorua, taking in the lush landscapes en route.
It's about a 3-hour drive.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Dig into delicious dishes at the vibrant Eat Streat, known for its diverse food offerings.
Located near the lake in Rotorua.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu, including its famous Champagne Pool.
A 30-minute drive from lunch.
NZD25, 2 hours

4:00PM

Agrodome Farm Show

Experience the fun of an interactive farm show featuring sheep shearing and dog trials.
A 20-minute drive from Wai-O-Tapu.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pig & Whistle

End your day with a family-friendly meal at The Pig & Whistle, serving hearty New Zealand fare.
A short 15-minute drive from the farm.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Taupo Adventures

Taupo, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Ripe Deli

Start with a nutritious breakfast at Ripe Deli, known for its locally-sourced ingredients.
Located within Rotorua before heading out.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Taupo

Drive to Taupo, enjoying the stunning views of the lake and mountains along the way.
Only a 1-hour drive.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Huka Falls Walkway

Take a scenic stroll along the Huka Falls Walkway to view the impressive waterfalls.
A 15-minute drive from your accommodation.
NZD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Brantry

Savor delicious food and a lovely view at The Brantry, a family-friendly restaurant in Taupo.
A quick 10-minute drive deeper into Taupo.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lake Taupo Activities

Enjoy a variety of thrilling water activities like jet boating or kayaking on Lake Taupo.
Located at the lakefront.
NZD130, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Taupo's Bistro

Wrap up your day at Taupo's Bistro, offering a range of delicious New Zealand dishes.
Located near the lakefront.
NZD85, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Hawke's Bay Delights

Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Huka Lodge

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at Huka Lodge before the drive.
Located nearby, a short drive from Taupo.
NZD60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hawke's Bay

Travel to Hawke's Bay, known for its stunning coastline and wineries.
It's about a 2-hour drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Te Mata Peak

Explore Te Mata Peak for panoramic views of the region – a fantastic photo opportunity!
A short drive from your lodging.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Black Barn Vineyard

Enjoy lunch at the scenic Black Barn Vineyard, with a family-friendly menu and vineyard tours.
A brief 20-minute drive from Te Mata Peak.
NZD90, 2 hours

3:00PM

Art Deco Napier Tour

Explore the unique Art Deco architecture and history of Napier on a guided tour.
A 20-minute drive from the vineyard.
NZD50, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Urban Winery

Conclude your day at The Urban Winery, offering local dishes and winemaker specials.
A 15-minute drive from Napier's historical center.
NZD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Wellington Wonders

Wellington, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Martha's Pantry

Relish a delightful breakfast featuring fresh ingredients at Martha's Pantry before heading south.
Located in Havelock North, a brief detour.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Head to Wellington

Enjoy the scenic drive to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.
It's a 4-hour drive along the coastal route.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fidel's Cafe

Grab lunch at Fidel's Cafe known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu.
Located in Wellington's Cuba Street.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Te Papa Museum

Spend the afternoon exploring Te Papa, the national museum of New Zealand, known for its interactive exhibits.
Short drive from the cafe or a 15-minute walk.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Savor the evening with a memorable dinner at Logan Brown, offering an elegant atmosphere and exquisite dishes.
Located nearby in central Wellington.
NZD150, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nelson Nouveaus

Nelson, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Botanist

Start your day with a fresh breakfast at The Botanist, focusing on local produce.
Located in Wellington before departing.
NZD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel to Nelson, a picturesque town known for its arts scene and beaches.
A scenic 1.5-hour drive via the coast.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Nelson Markets

Explore the vibrant Nelson Markets filled with local artisans and fresh produce.
Located in the heart of Nelson.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Free House

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at The Free House, featuring local craft beers and fresh ingredients.
A short walk from the markets.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit World of Wearable Art Gallery

Discover innovative designs and art forms at the World of Wearable Art Gallery.
A short 10-minute drive or taxi ride.
NZD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Hopgood's & Co

Feast on an exquisite dinner at Hopgood's & Co, famous for its seafood specialties.
Located in Nelson city.
NZD100, 2 hours
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Day 7: Abel Tasman Fun

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Nelson's Sunday Market

Start your day at Nelson's Sunday Market with delicious local food offerings.
A convenient short drive from your stay.
NZD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Travel to Abel Tasman National Park for stunning beaches and hiking trails.
It's about 1 hour away.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience an unforgettable morning of kayaking among stunning coastal scenery.
Organized tours are available at the park entrance.
NZD90, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mangrove Café

Recharge with a casual lunch at The Mangrove Café located in the park.
A quick walk from kayaking.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking & Beach Time

Spend the afternoon hiking through the beautiful trails and relaxing on the beach.
Self-guided hikes are available on-site.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Conclude your active day with delicious gourmet burgers at The Fat Tui.
Return to Nelson for dinner.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Kaikoura Coastal Trip

Kaikoura, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The 5th Street

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at The 5th Street, known for fresh ingredients.
A convenient spot in Nelson before departing.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Embark on a scenic drive along the coast towards Kaikoura.
Expect around a 2.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Treat yourself to a beachfront lunch at The Pier Hotel with fantastic views.
Located right on the waterfront.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Whale Watching Tour

Experience the excitement of whale watching in Kaikoura, home to abundant marine life.
Tours are available at the local bay.
NZD150, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Seafood BBQ

Enjoy fresh seafood at the Seafood BBQ, known for its local specialities.
Short drive from the whale watching center.
NZD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Christchurch Finale

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Start the final day with great coffee and breakfast at the trendy Caffeine Laboratory.
Located in Kaikoura, easy access.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Head to Christchurch, absorbing the last sights of the beautiful South Island.
It's about a 2.5-hour drive.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Enjoy a casual lunch at Little High Eatery, a unique dining experience with multiple food vendors.
Located in the heart of Christchurch.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Soak in the beauty of nature at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a perfect way to wind down your trip.
A short drive or walk from lunch.
NZD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Quake City Museum

Learn about Christchurch's recovery from the earthquake at the engaging Quake City Museum.
A quick drive from the botanic gardens.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Post

Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at The Post, featuring luxurious local cuisine.
Located centrally in Christchurch.
NZD120, 2 hours
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