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Epic 8-Day New Zealand Adventure: From North to South

Viewed by 59 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Federal Delicatessen, renowned for its New York-style brunch fare.
Located in central Auckland, easy walking distance from any downtown accommodation.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sky Tower

Ascend the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Auckland skyline and surrounding islands.
Take a short 5-minute walk from The Federal Delicatessen.
NZD 32, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Auckland Harbour

Stroll along the Auckland Waterfront, visiting the lively Viaduct Harbour filled with shops and cafes.
Walk towards the Harbour from Sky Tower; about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Snickel Lane

Dine at Snickel Lane, a hidden gem offering delicious street food-style dishes, perfect for a casual lunch.
Located a short 10-minute walk from the Waterfront.
NZD 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Auckland Art Gallery

Immerse yourself in New Zealand art at the Auckland Art Gallery, showcasing contemporary and traditional works.
A 15-minute walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ortolana

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at Ortolana, known for its fresh, seasonal menu and serene ambiance.
A pleasant 10-minute walk from the gallery.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auckland

Day 2: Adventure in Rotorua

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lady Jane's Old-Fashioned Chocolate Shop

Enjoy a sweet breakfast at Lady Jane's, where you can indulge in gourmet chocolates and pastries.
Driving from Auckland to Rotorua takes about 3 hours; this breakfast place is conveniently located upon arrival.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Discover Rotorua’s unique geothermal activity at Wai-O-Tapu with its vibrant and colourful hot springs.
A short 30-minute drive from breakfast.
NZD 30, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Head to Eat Streat for a variety of casual eateries, choosing from local and international cuisines.
About 25 minutes drive back to central Rotorua.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tamaki Maori Village

Engage in a culturally enriching experience with a visit to the Tamaki Maori Village, learning about Maori traditions and customs.
A 15-minute drive from lunch.
NZD 150, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Enjoy dinner at Atticus Finch, known for its quality local dishes and charming atmosphere.
A short 10-minute drive from Tamaki Maori Village.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Scenic Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Red Dog Cafe

Start the day with a delicious coffee and breakfast at Red Dog Café, a popular spot among locals.
A 1-hour drive from Rotorua to Taupo.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Taupo Walk

Experience the stunning views on a walk along the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake.
Located just a few minutes from Red Dog Cafe.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Huka Falls

Witness the power of Huka Falls, where you can explore viewing platforms along the scenic river.
A 10-minute drive from the lake walk.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Café

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Café, known for its great coffee, fresh sandwiches, and stunning lake views.
A short 15-minute drive back towards Taupo.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Skydiving Taupo

For the thrill-seekers, experience an exhilarating skydive over the breathtaking Lake Taupo.
Easily accessible location within Taupo.
NZD 300, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Burger Spot

Cap off your day with a casual dinner at The Burger Spot featuring gourmet burgers with local ingredients.
A 10-minute drive from the skydive drop zone.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 4: Cultural Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Floridita

Have a tasty breakfast at Floridita, famous for its creative brunch options and fresh ingredients.
A 4.5-hour drive from Taupo to Wellington.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Papa Museum

Discover New Zealand's history and culture at Te Papa, the national museum known for its interactive exhibitions.
Located a short 5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cuba Street

Venture to Cuba Street, bustling with cafes and eateries, to enjoy a diverse lunch from local vendors.
Just a 10-minute walk from Te Papa.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Wellington Botanic Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through the Wellington Botanic Garden, appreciating its beautiful flora and stunning views.
About a 15-minute walk from Cuba Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Ride the Wellington Cable Car

Experience a scenic ride on the Wellington Cable Car offering stunning views of the city.
A quick 10-minute walk from the Botanic Garden.
NZD 7, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Larder

Savour a meal at The Larder, a delightful restaurant known for offering fresh, local produce.
A 10-minute drive from the cable car station.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Wellington

Day 5: Charming Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Start your day with rich coffee and gourmet breakfast options at Caffeine Laboratory.
Fly from Wellington to Christchurch (1-hour flight), and the café is 10 minutes from the airport.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
Located a quick 5-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Black Betty

Visit Black Betty for a delicious, casual lunch featuring a variety of dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from the gardens.
NZD 25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Canterbury Museum

Explore the exciting exhibitions at Canterbury Museum that showcases New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage.
A 5-minute walk from Black Betty.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Punting on the Avon River

Experience a classic Christchurch activity, punting on the Avon River surrounded by picturesque scenery.
Easily accessible from Canterbury Museum, just a 10-minute walk.
NZD 35, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The George

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at The George, known for its gourmet dishes and elegant setting.
A short 5-minute drive from the punting area.
NZD 85, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Christchurch

Day 6: Adventures in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Frankton Arm Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Frankton Arm Café with stunning lake views and hearty options.
A 5-hour scenic drive from Christchurch to Queenstown.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Queenstown

Ride the gondola to the Skyline Queenstown for breathtaking views and optional luge rides for more thrills.
Located very close to the café.
NZD 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Experience one of Queenstown's most famous places, Fergburger, known for its gourmet burgers.
An easy 10-minute walk from Skyline.
NZD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Feel the adrenaline rush as you take a thrilling jet boat ride through the stunning Shotover Canyon.
A short drive to the nearby jet boat operator.
NZD 130, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, perfect for relaxation or a lovely walk.
A quick 10-minute drive from the jet boat area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savour an elegant dinner at Botswana Butchery, famous for its fine dining experience with a local twist.
A 10-minute walk from the gardens.
NZD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 7: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before setting off for the day’s adventure.
Depart from Queenstown early; transportation can be arranged through your accommodation.
Included in stay, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Experience a scenic drive through the breathtaking Fiordland National Park on your way to Milford Sound.
Transportation arrangements can be made from Queenstown.
NZD 100 (for transport), 4 hours

12:00PM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a stunning cruise through Milford Sound, witnessing waterfalls and incredible landscapes.
Board the cruise upon arrival at Milford Sound.
NZD 100, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Savour a packed lunch provided during your cruise while enjoying the magnificent views.
Included in cruise package.
Included in cruise, 1 hour

3:30PM

Return Drive to Queenstown

Make your way back to Queenstown, taking in the picturesque scenery once more.
Utilize the same transportation back.
Included in transport price, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Aloha Motorsport

Treat yourself to a casual dinner at Aloha Motorsport, featuring delicious casual dining with a modern flair.
Return to Queenstown for an easy 10-minute drive.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milford Sound

Day 8: Historic Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Press Club

Enjoy breakfast at The Press Club, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious breakfast options.
A 3-hour scenic drive from Queenstown to Dunedin.
NZD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Larnach Castle

Explore the history and gardens of Larnach Castle, one of New Zealand’s most famous landmarks.
Located 20 minutes from central Dunedin.
NZD 40, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Esplanade

Dine with a view at The Esplanade, acclaimed for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
Head back to Dunedin, around a 30-minute drive.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Otago Peninsula

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Otago Peninsula, famous for its wildlife, including albatrosses and penguins.
A scenic drive from lunch, approximately 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Dunedin Railway Station

Explore the heritage Dunedin Railway Station, known for its stunning architecture.
A short drive back to Dunedin's city centre.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Scalded Dog

Savour your final dinner at Scalded Dog, a fine dining restaurant known for its creative dishes and intimate setting.
Located in Dunedin city centre.
NZD 60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dunedin
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