20-Day Nature-Filled Road Trip Itinerary in New Zealand for Nature Lovers & Photographers

Day 1: Explore Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on March 28, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at TomTom

Start your day with divine freshly baked pastries and locally sourced coffee at TomTom, known for its artisanal vibe.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Sky Tower

Visit the iconic Sky Tower for stunning panoramic views of Auckland and its surrounding landscapes.
NZD32, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and fresh shared plates celebrating local produce at Depot Eatery.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Auckland Domain

Wander through Auckland Domain, a beautiful park showcasing native flora and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stay at the Hotel DeBrett

A boutique hotel in central Auckland, offering stylish rooms and excellent service.
NZD250, 1 night
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Day 2: Caves & Countryside

Waitomo, New Zealand on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Glasshouse

Enjoy gourmet breakfast options highlighting local ingredients at The Glasshouse before hitting the road.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the astonishing Waitomo Caves known for their glowworms.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Experience a guided tour through the stunning limestone caves illuminated by nature’s glowworms.
NZD120, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Waitomo Homestead

Relax with a rustic meal featuring local produce at the charming Waitomo Homestead.
NZD50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Scenic Drives & Stay at Waitomo Caves Hotel

Enjoy the surrounding views and a peaceful night’s stay at the Waitomo Caves Hotel.
NZD180, 1 night
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Day 3: Geothermal Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Factory

Try the delicious breakfast options featuring local eggs and free-range meats at The Factory.
NZD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rotorua

Enjoy a 2-hour drive to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Explore geysers, mud pools, and Māori culture at Te Puia, an incredible geothermal wonderland.
NZD70, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Savor a variety of food options from different vendors at the lively Eat Streat food precinct.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Lake Rotorua Walk

Take a scenic walk around Lake Rotorua, perfect for stunning photography and relaxation.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Stay at Peppers on the Point

Enjoy a luxurious lakeside boutique hotel with stunning views and fine dining.
NZD260, 1 night
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Day 4: Mountain Majesties

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Peppers on the Point before departing.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Tongariro National Park

Enjoy a picturesque 2-hour drive to Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Embark on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, renowned for breathtaking vistas and volcanic landscapes. This is a full-day hike.
Free, 7-8 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Park Hotel Ruapehu

Unwind with a relaxing dinner at the hotel, featuring delicious local dishes.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Stay at The Park Hotel Ruapehu

Spend the night at this comfortable hotel near the national park, perfect for relaxation.
NZD200, 1 night
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Day 5: Capital City & Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at The Park Hotel before driving to Wellington.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wellington

Enjoy a scenic drive of around 4.5 hours to arrive at New Zealand's vibrant capital.
Free, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Relish fresh seafood and quality dishes in a stylish setting at Ortega Fish Shack.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Explore New Zealand's national museum showcasing its cultural history and biodiversity.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Logan Brown

Experience fine dining with a unique New Zealand twist at Logan Brown, known for its lavish dishes.
NZD120, 2 hours

8:30PM

Stay at Ohtel

Unwind in luxury at Ohtel, a boutique hotel with a focus on contemporary design and comfort.
NZD300, 1 night
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Day 6: Scenic Ferry Crossing

Picton, New Zealand on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread before heading off to Picton.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to the Ferry Terminal

Head to the ferry terminal for your scenic crossing across the Cook Strait.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Ferry to Picton

Take the 3-hour ferry ride with breathtaking views over the Cook Strait.
NZD70, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The tapas House

Enjoy a casual lunch featuring delicious shared plates emphasizing local flavours.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Marlborough Sounds Scenic Drive

Embark on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Marlborough Sounds.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Stay at purepod – Marlborough Sounds

Enjoy a unique eco-pod experience high above the forest canopy in the stunning Marlborough Sounds.
NZD290, 1 night
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Day 7: Art & Nature Escape

Nelson, New Zealand on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Pod

Start your day with a simple organic breakfast in the serene surroundings of your eco-pod.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nelson

Venture to Nelson for a drive of about 2 hours through stunning landscapes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boathouse

Dine with views of the sea at The Boathouse, renowned for its local seafood dishes.
NZD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Nelson Art Gallery

Explore local artworks and exhibitions at the Nelson Art Gallery, celebrating emerging talent.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Spend time at Tahunanui Beach

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the sandy shores of Tahunanui Beach, perfect for photography.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stay at Sentinel House

A luxury BnB in Nelson providing cozy rooms with modern amenities and delicious breakfasts.
NZD220, 1 night
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Day 8: National Park Adventure

Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sentinel House

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with fresh local produce at your BnB.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Drive for about 1 hour to reach the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Sea Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Experience the stunning coastline and wildlife on a guided sea kayaking tour of the park.
NZD110, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at the Park Café

Savour fresh local cuisine while taking in beautiful views at the café located inside the park.
NZD50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hiking in Abel Tasman

Enjoy a leisurely hike on one of the park’s beautiful trails, known for stunning vistas and wildlife.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Stay at Awaroa Lodge

Relish in a unique stay at Awaroa Lodge, nestled in the heart of the national park.
NZD250, 1 night
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Day 9: Beach & Rainforest

Punakaiki, New Zealand on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Awaroa Lodge

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast overlooking the national park.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Punakaiki

Take a scenic drive of about 3 hours along the coast to Punakaiki, famous for its pancake rocks.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pancake Rocks Café

Enjoy lunch with stunning views of Punakaiki’s unique rock formations at the café.
NZD60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Visit the famous Pancake Rocks and see the blowholes in action – an iconic natural sight!
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stay at Punakaiki Resort

Relax at Punakaiki Resort, offering rooms with stunning ocean views in a peaceful environment.
NZD210, 1 night
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Day 10: Glaciers Ahead

Franz Josef, New Zealand on April 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for Franz Josef.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef

Drive for approximately 1.5 hours through lush rainforests to Franz Josef.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike

Experience an unforgettable heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier, combining a helicopter ride and guided hike.
NZD600, 3-4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at the Glacier View Café

Enjoy a casual lunch at the nearby café while relishing scenic views.
NZD70, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Spend a luxurious night at Te Waonui, a retreat nestled in the rainforest, perfect for relaxation.
NZD280, 1 night
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Day 11: Lakeside Beauty

Wanaka, New Zealand on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Retreat

Indulge in a delicious breakfast amidst the serenity of Te Waonui.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy a picturesque 3-hour drive to Wanaka, renowned for its stunning lake and mountain backdrop.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Big Fig

Savour healthy and hearty meals at The Big Fig, known for its fresh ingredients and warm atmosphere.
NZD55, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Wanaka Tree

Capture a stunning photo of the famous Wanaka Tree, a must-see for photographers.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Lake Wanaka Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore of Lake Wanaka, perfect for photographing the surroundings.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Stay at Edgewater Hotel

Relax in style at the Edgewater Hotel, featuring lakeside rooms with magnificent views.
NZD260, 1 night
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Day 12: Adventure Awaits

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Edgewater

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast overlooking the lake.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Queenstown

Set off for a short 1-hour drive to vibrant Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Glenorchy Scenic Drive

Embark on a stunning scenic drive to Glenorchy, known for incredible mountain and lake views.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ferg Burger

Don’t miss lunch at the iconic Ferg Burger, famous for its enormous, flavour-packed burgers.
NZD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skyline Queenstown

Take the gondola to the top of Bob's Peak for awe-inspiring views of Queenstown and surrounding mountains.
NZD44, 2 hours

6:00PM

Stay at Rydges Lakeland Resort

Relax at this family-friendly resort nestled next to Lake Wakatipu with stunning views.
NZD230, 1 night
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Day 13: Nature’s Paradise

Te Anau, New Zealand on April 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Rydges

Enjoy a delightful breakfast before heading out to explore more.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Take a scenic drive of about 2 hours to reach the tranquil Te Anau.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Café

Dine on homemade dishes and local products at the welcoming Redcliff Café.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Embark on a fascinating guided tour of the stunning Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
NZD85, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stay at Distinction Te Anau Hotel

Find comfort in your lakeside hotel featuring beautiful views and cozy amenities.
NZD190, 1 night
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Day 14: Fiordland Wonders

Milford Sound, New Zealand on April 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a delightful breakfast before the journey to Milford Sound.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Enjoy a picturesque drive of about 1.5 hours to reach the stunning Milford Sound.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Experience the breathtaking landscape viewing Milford Sound’s famous waterfalls on a scenic cruise.
NZD85, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a packed lunch while admiring the stunning scenery.
NZD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Milford Sound

Spend time exploring the surrounding beauty of Milford Sound after the cruise.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stay at Milford Sound Lodge

Experience this unique lodge located in the heart of Fiordland National Park with an earthy vibe.
NZD330, 1 night
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Day 15: Wildlife Encounters

Dunedin, New Zealand on April 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Milford Sound Lodge

Fuel up with a good breakfast before you head to Dunedin.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dunedin

Travel for around 3 hours to reach Dunedin, a city rich in Victorian architecture.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Etrusco at the Savoy

Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine in a charming bistro atmosphere.
NZD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Otago Peninsula Scenic Drive

Explore the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife of Otago Peninsula on a scenic driving journey.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stay at Larnach Castle Lodge

Spend a night at New Zealand's only castle, offering an unforgettable experience.
NZD250, 1 night
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Day 16: Mountain Majesty

Mount Cook, New Zealand on April 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Larnach Castle Lodge

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in a majestic setting.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Venture towards Mount Cook with a scenic drive of around 4 hours, filled with breathtaking views.
Free, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Hermitage Restaurant

Savour delicious cuisine while enjoying incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook.
NZD75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Mount Cook Village Walk

Take an easy walk in the Mount Cook area to soak in the majestic scenery.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Stay at Mount Cook Lodge

Experience warm hospitality and stunning views at this mountain lodge.
NZD220, 1 night
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Day 17: Garden City

Christchurch, New Zealand on April 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your lodge

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at the lodge before departure.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Head to Christchurch with a drive of about 4.5 hours into the city.
Free, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at C1 Espresso

Visit C1 Espresso for a unique dining experience with an eclectic menu.
NZD65, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a picturesque place full of native flora.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The George

Finish the day with international fine dining at The George, featuring seasonal New Zealand dishes.
NZD130, 2 hours

8:30PM

Stay at The Classic Villa

Stay in a charming boutique villa in the heart of the city with beautiful décor.
NZD195, 1 night
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Day 18: Coastal Wonders

Kaikoura, New Zealand on April 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your boutique hotel

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel before driving.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Set off for a scenic 2.5-hour drive along the coastline to reach Kaikoura, famous for marine life.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Craypot

Savour fresh seafood at this cozy restaurant, well known for crayfish.
NZD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kaikoura Whale Watching Tour

Join an unforgettable whale-watching tour to see migrating whales and playful dolphins.
NZD150, 3 hours

5:00PM

Stay at The White Morph

Unwind at this beachfront property with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach.
NZD210, 1 night
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Day 19: Island Paradise

Bay of Islands, New Zealand on April 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading to your next destination.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Bay of Islands

Enjoy a scenic drive of about 6 hours to reach the beautiful Bay of Islands.
Free, 6 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at a local café

Savour the local flavours at a delightful café in the Bay of Islands.
NZD50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Beach Time at Paihia

Relax on the sandy beaches of Paihia, soak up the sun, and perhaps do some photography.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Duke of Marlborough

Enjoy dinner with a waterfront view at this highly-rated restaurant in Russell.
NZD95, 2 hours

9:00PM

Stay at Paihia Beach Resort

Relax in this beachfront accommodation with stunning views only steps from the beach.
NZD250, 1 night
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Day 20: Farewell New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand on April 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before preparing for your journey back to Auckland.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Auckland

Return to Auckland for your departure with a scenic 3-hour drive ahead.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a local café

Conveniently have lunch at a café along your return route.
NZD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend your last hours in Auckland enjoying some shopping at local boutiques.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Grove

Savour a memorable final dinner at The Grove, known for its modern cuisine and fine wine.
NZD130, 2 hours

8:00PM

Departure

Depart from Auckland, taking beautiful memories of New Zealand with you.
Free, N/A
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