14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip in New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hello Friends + Aloha

Start your day with delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes and local coffee.
Located in the city center, just a short drive from your accommodation.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sky Tower Visit

Take a scenic elevator ride to the Sky Tower's observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Drive or use public transport to get to Victoria Street.
NZD 38, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Auckland Zoo

Explore the Auckland Zoo and see native wildlife including kiwi birds and Tuatara.
A short drive from Sky Tower.
NZD 75, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Zeppa

Enjoy tapas and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families.
Drive to La Zeppa, located on Fort Lane.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Waiheke Island Ferry

Take a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for beautiful beaches and lush vineyards.
Ferries leave from the Auckland Ferry Terminal.
NZD 42, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Oyster Inn

Savor fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean.
Located on the Main Road in Oneroa on Waiheke Island.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Rotorua Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Village Green

Enjoy a hearty Kiwi breakfast before heading out for adventures.
Drive about 3 hours from Auckland to Rotorua via SH1 and SH5.
NZD 75, 1 hour

10:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Discover bubbling mud pools and geysers that Rotorua is famous for.
It's about a 5-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
NZD 40, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eat Street

Experience a variety of international cuisines along the bustling eatery strip.
A short drive back to the central city.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Rainbow Springs Nature Park

Meet kiwis and explore stunning gardens and native wildlife.
Just 5 minutes from Eat Street.
NZD 40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Polynesian Spa

Relax in the natural hot springs, perfect for families winding down.
About 10 minutes drive from Rainbow Springs.
NZD 160, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Pig and Whistle

Enjoy a cozy dinner with classic pub fare in the heart of Rotorua.
A 5-minute drive from Polynesian Spa.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Charming Taupo

Taupo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stoked Restaurant

Fresh smoothies and mouth-watering breakfast options energize your day.
Drive 1 hour from Rotorua to Taupo via SH5.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Taupo

Enjoy a morning by the lake with views of the mountains, take a walk or have a swim.
Just a few minutes drive from Stoked.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Huka Falls

Witness the powerful Huka Falls, a must-see natural wonder.
Drive 10 minutes to the falls.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The boat shed cafe

Relax at this lakeside café with stunning views and delicious food.
A 15-minute drive back towards Taupo town.
NZD 85, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Orakei Korako Geothermal Park

Explore the hidden geothermal wonders of this park.
About a 30-minute drive from the café.
NZD 32, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Thai Delight

Indulge in authentic Thai flavors at this local favorite.
Return to Taupo, around 30-minute drive to town.
NZD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Tongariro

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 110

Start your day with a filling breakfast before your adventures.
Drive about 1 hour from Taupo to National Park Village.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on one of New Zealand’s most popular day hikes; it’s a family-friendly trek.
Access points for the hike are nearby. Ensure you check weather conditions.
Free, 7 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Station Cafe

Savor hearty meals after a long day of hiking in a rustic setting.
It's located just in National Park Village.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Wellington City

Wellington, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Prefab Cafe

Enjoy organic breakfast options in this famous city café.
Drive about 2 hours from Tongariro to Wellington.
NZD 75, 1 hour

9:30AM

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Visit New Zealand’s national museum, showcasing the country’s culture and history.
Located in the heart of Wellington.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Waterfront

A selection of eateries lining Wellington's picturesque waterfront.
Stroll to nearby cafes along the waterfront.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Cable Car to Kelburn

Ride the iconic cable car for fantastic views over the city.
The cable car station is near the waterfront.
NZD 12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens just above the cable car station.
A short stroll from the cable car terminal.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Chicken Inn

Treat yourselves to a family-friendly dinner specializing in roast chicken.
Located near the gardens and Wellington central.
NZD 85, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Picton via Ferry

Picton, New Zealand

7:00AM

Breakfast at Fidel's Cafe

Start your day with a vibrant breakfast and coffee before catching the ferry.
Drive 30 minutes to the ferry terminal.
NZD 80, 1 hour

8:30AM

Ferry to Picton

Relax as you cruise the stunning waters of Marlborough Sound.
Depart from Wellington Ferry Terminal.
NZD 100, 3 hours

11:30AM

Picton Waterfront

Explore the charming waterfront of Picton upon arrival.
The waterfront is a short walk from the ferry terminal.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Seabreeze Cafe

Satisfy your hunger with fresh seafood and local dishes.
Located along the waterfront.
NZD 70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Marlborough Sounds Kayaking

Experience the beauty of the sounds from the water with a family-friendly kayaking trip.
Kayaking departs from the waterfront.
NZD 150, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bistro

End your day with diverse cuisines in a cozy environment.
Located within walking distance of the waterfront.
NZD 95, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Abel Tasman Adventures

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Picton Bakery

Enjoy pastries and coffee before heading to the national park.
Drive about 2 hours to Abel Tasman via SH1.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Abel Tasman National Park

Embark on a family-friendly hike or relaxing beach day in this stunning coastal park.
Access the park from Marahau after a short drive.
Free, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Park Café

Refuel with a selection of sandwiches and local dishes post-hike.
The café is located near the park entrance.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking or Scenic Boat Cruise

Explore the sparkling waters and beaches of Abel Tasman – perfect for families.
Booking can be done at the park entrance.
NZD 150, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Savor unique gourmet burgers from this local hotspot.
A 20-minute drive from the park to Kaiteriteri.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Nelson Exploration

Nelson, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mekong Cafe

Enjoy delicious Asian-inspired breakfast dishes before heading out.
Drive about 1 hour from Abel Tasman to Nelson.
NZD 75, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nelson Market Visit

Shop for local crafts and produce at the vibrant market (Saturdays only).
Head to Nelson's Challenge Community Hall.
Free (shopping extra), 2 hours

11:30AM

Founders Heritage Park

Explore New Zealand’s history and heritage at this interactive park.
A short drive from the market.
NZD 15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Free House

Enjoy fine fare and local beer in a relaxed pub atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Nelson.
NZD 85, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tahunanui Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the beach—great for families.
A short drive from The Free House.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Boat Shed

End your day at this beautiful dining spot by the water.
Just a 10-minute drive from Tahunanui Beach.
NZD 120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Landing

Grab a quick breakfast before the long drive to Franz Josef.
Drive 4 hours from Nelson to Franz Josef via SH6.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Take a guided tour or leisurely walk to witness the stunning glacier.
Follow signs to glacier access points.
NZD 140, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Glacial Cafe

Refuel with hearty meals surrounded by nature.
Located close to the glacier access points.
NZD 85, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind at the thermal pools after an exciting day.
A short walk from the café.
NZD 60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Alice May

Enjoy hearty fare in a cozy setting in Franz Josef.
Located a short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Queenstown Thrills

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Joe’s Garage

Fuel up with great coffee and breakfast before hitting Queenstown.
Drive about 4 hours from Franz Josef to Queenstown.
NZD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Queenstown Gondola

Take a gondola ride with stunning views before embarking on the luge.
Located just 5 minutes from the town center.
NZD 55, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fergburger

Experience a famous burger joint that the whole family will love.
Only a short walk away from the gondola.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shotover Jet Boat

An adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through the stunning Shotover Canyon.
The jet boat base is reachable within a 10-minute drive.
NZD 170, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Spend a relaxing afternoon walking through beautiful gardens.
Located a mere 5 minutes from the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Blue Kanu

Enjoy a fusion of Asian and Pacific flavors in a unique setting.
Easily accessible from Queenstown center.
NZD 130, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Milford Sound Trip

Milford Sound, New Zealand

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day early with a quick breakfast before heading out.
This will be your last day in Queenstown.
NZD 40, 30 mins

7:00AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Take a morning cruise to experience the breathtaking fjords and waterfalls.
Drive about 1.5 hours to Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 120, 2 hours

9:30AM

Milford Sound Scenic Flight (Optional)

For an unforgettable adventure, take a scenic flight back to Queenstown.
Departs from Milford Sound terminal.
NZD 350, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Refuel at the café in Milford Sound post-cruise.
Located near the terminal.
NZD 70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Return to Queenstown

Drive back to Queenstown and take in the scenic views.
Allow for approximately 1.5 hours return.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Queenstown Ice Bar

Experience an ice bar with a fascinating atmosphere; kids love the unique experience.
Head to the central area of Queenstown.
NZD 80, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Savor delicious pizzas in a rustic mountain lodge ambiance.
Very close to the Ice Bar.
NZD 100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Scenic Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Cardrona Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before making the scenic drive to Wanaka.
Drive 1 hour from Queenstown to Wanaka.
NZD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Wanaka and the #ThatWanakaTree

Visit the iconic tree and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the lake.
It’s within Wanaka town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Puzzling World

Explore the mind-bending maze and optical illusions at this unique attraction.
A short drive from the lake.
NZD 40, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Refuel with healthy lunch options overlooking the lake.
Get back to the town area.
NZD 85, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wanaka Lavender Farm

Admire the beauty of the lavender fields—a perfect spot for family photos.
Located a short drive from town.
NZD 20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen

Enjoy contemporary New Zealand dishes in a relaxed setting.
Back in central Wanaka.
NZD 110, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Christchurch Exploration

Christchurch, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffeine Laboratory

Grab a coffee and breakfast at this local café with a great atmosphere.
Drive 1 hour from Wanaka to Christchurch.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens and take a punting tour on the river.
A tranquil area accessible by car.
Free (punting extra), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The George Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a focus on local produce in this elegant spot.
A short drive from the gardens.
NZD 110, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Canterbury Museum

Learn about the history of the Canterbury region in an accessible way for kids.
Just a few minutes drive from The George.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Quake City

An interactive exhibition about earthquakes that hit Christchurch.
Located nearby the museum.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Dux Dine

Enjoy organic dishes with a focus on sustainability and fresh ingredients.
A quick drive from Quake City.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Charming Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Akaroa Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked treats and the aroma of coffee before heading out.
Drive 1.5 hours from Christchurch to Akaroa.
NZD 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Akaroa Harbour Cruise

Take a scenic cruise to see local wildlife, including dolphins.
Cruises depart from the Akaroa harbor.
NZD 120, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Shoreline

Relax with a family-friendly meal with views of the harbor.
A stroll along the waterfront will take you there.
NZD 80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Akaroa's French Heritage

Wander the charming streets and discover the French influence in the architecture.
It's easy to explore on foot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Giant's House

Explore whimsical gardens filled with giant mosaics and playful sculptures.
Located in Akaroa, just a short walk.
NZD 25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Wharf Cafe

End your trip by savoring delicious dishes while enjoying waterfront views.
The café is positioned right by the harbor.
NZD 90, 1.5 hours
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