14-Day Self-Drive Round Trip Itinerary from Queenstown, New Zealand

Day Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on March 28, 2025

10:30AM

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, showcasing stunning scenery and a variety of local flora.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ferg Burger

Ferg Burger is famed for its delicious and massive burgers, making it a must-visit spot for lunch.
NZD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Skyline Queenstown

Ride the gondola up to Bob's Peak for breathtaking views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
NZD44, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Lake Wakatipu

Enjoy the picturesque views and take photos at this stunning lake, perfect for relaxation.
NZD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Indulge in a gourmet dining experience with locally sourced ingredients at Botswana Butchery.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 2: Journey to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Patagonia Chocolates

Start your day with a sweet treat at Patagonia Chocolates, known for its rich hot chocolate.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Head out on the beautiful 2-hour drive to Te Anau, known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take a guided boat tour to explore the enchanting glowworm caves, a unique natural wonder.
NZD85, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Redcliff Cafe, offering delicious meals with a scenic view.
NZD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Te Anau Lakefront Walk

Take a scenic walk along the lakefront, with breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Savor a warm meal at The Fat Duck, featuring local favorites and a cozy atmosphere.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 3: Milford Sound Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand on March 30, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out for the day.
NZD0, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Travel the stunning 1.5 hour scenic drive to Milford Sound, renowned for its breathtaking fjord landscapes.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Experience a guided cruise on Milford Sound to witness the majestic cliffs and waterfalls up close.
NZD110, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Milford Sound

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the scenic surroundings of Milford Sound.
NZD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Kayaking in Milford Sound

Experience the fjord from the water with a kayak adventure amidst its stunning scenery.
NZD120, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive back to Te Anau

Return to Te Anau, with the option of stopping for photos along the way.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Olive Tree

Savor a meal at The Olive Tree, featuring fresh, local produce and an extensive wine list.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 4: Explore Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Watersider

Enjoy a lakeside breakfast at the Watersider, known for its stunning views and great coffee.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wanaka

Enjoy the beautiful 1 hour drive to Wanaka, surrounded by stunning mountains and lakes.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Take a short walk to see the famous Wanaka Tree, an iconic photo opportunity.
NZD0, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Lake Wanaka Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wanaka to fully experience the beauty of the area.
NZD75, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Big Fig

Feast on a delicious lunch at The Big Fig, specializing in wholesome, hearty meals.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike the Roys Peak Track

Embark on the famous Roys Peak Track for breathtaking panoramas; plan for a challenging uphill hike.
NZD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kika

Dine at Kika, where modern cuisine meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
NZD50, 2 hours
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Day Day 5: Visit Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand on April 1, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your accommodation before the day’s adventure.
NZD0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Travel the scenic 4-hour drive to Franz Josef, surrounded by lush rainforest and mountains.
NZD0, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Landing

Lunch at The Landing offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious local dishes near the glacier.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Franz Josef Glacier Hike

Join a guided hike to experience the stunning glacier landscape up close, including ice formations.
NZD200, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Unwind in the natural hot pools surrounded by the rainforest after a day of adventure.
NZD40, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Station

Enjoy a cozy meal at The Station Restaurant, offering a range of comforting dishes.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 6: Hokitika and the West Coast

Hokitika, New Zealand on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with breakfast at your lodging before heading out.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hokitika

Head north towards Hokitika, enjoying marvellous views along the 2-hour drive.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hokitika Gorge

Explore the stunning Hokitika Gorge with its vivid turquoise waters and suspension bridge.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fat Pipi Pizza

Grab a delicious slice at Fat Pipi Pizza, famous for its creative toppings.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hokitika Beach and Sunset Point

Wander along Hokitika Beach and visit the nearby Sunset Point for stunning views.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Garrison

End your day at The Garrison for a hearty meal in a charming setting.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 7: Greymouth Visit

Greymouth, New Zealand on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast as you prepare for another day of exploring.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Greymouth

Take a scenic drive to Greymouth, approximately an hour from Hokitika.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Monteith's Brewery

Tour the renowned Monteith's Brewery and sample some of their local brews.
NZD30, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Speight's Alehouse

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Speight's Alehouse, with a great selection of pub food.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Museum

Explore the Greymouth Museum to learn about local history and culture.
NZD5, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some time at Greymouth's beach, enjoying the coastal scenery.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Landing

Dine at The Landing for fresh seafood and amazing views of the coast.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 8: Travel to Nelson

Nelson, New Zealand on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on your drive to Nelson.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nelson

Travel around 3 hours to Nelson, with stunning coastal views along the way.
NZD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Affair

Delight in local dishes with a specialty coffee at Cafe Affair.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Nelson Market

Explore the local artisan market for fresh produce and craft goods. Open on Saturdays.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Enjoy a Trip to Rabbit Island

Take a short ferry ride to Rabbit Island for an afternoon of beach relaxation.
NZD15, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hopgood's

Savor high-quality, locally sourced cuisine at Hopgood's, a fine dining experience.
NZD75, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman, New Zealand on April 5, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before heading for adventure.
NZD0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Take a short 1-hour drive to Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its stunning beaches.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Join a guided kayaking tour to explore the coastline and spot wildlife.
NZD120, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Park Cafe

Grab a bite at Park Cafe, which offers light meals with nearby views.
NZD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Short Hike to Anchorage Bay

Take a scenic hike to Anchorage Bay, known for its stunning vistas.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Tui

Enjoy casual and delicious burgers from The Fat Tui, a local favorite.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 10: Wine Tasting in Blenheim

Blenheim, New Zealand on April 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day with breakfast before wine-tasting adventures.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Blenheim

Travel for about 1.5 hours to Blenheim, where you can taste the best wines of the region.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Wine Tasting Tour

Join a guided wine tasting tour to sample renowned Marlborough wines.
NZD150, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Wairau River Wines

Dine at Wairau River Wines, where you can enjoy fresh local cuisine paired with excellent wines.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre to see historic aircraft and exhibits.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Blondini

Cap the day with dinner at Blondini, offering delightful dishes with a cozy atmosphere.
NZD55, 2 hours
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Day Day 11: Picton and Marlborough Sounds

Picton, New Zealand on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at the accommodation before heading to Picton.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Picton

Take the scenic, 30-minute drive to Picton, located at the top of the South Island.
NZD0, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Marlborough Sounds Scenic Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise through the stunning Marlborough Sounds and spot wildlife.
NZD100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish and Chip Shop

Enjoy fresh fish and chips at the local takeaway for a casual lunch.
NZD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

Explore the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, home to the second oldest surviving merchant ship.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Waterfront

Spend some time relaxing at the picturesque waterfront, enjoying the views of the harbor.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Borough

Dine at The Borough for a delightful mixture of modern Kiwi cuisine.
NZD55, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 12: Kaikoura Whales

Kaikoura, New Zealand on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Get ready for a day of adventure with a healthy breakfast at your accommodations.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel about 2 hours to Kaikoura, famous for its marine wildlife.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Whale Watching Cruise

Experience a thrilling whale-watching cruise to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
NZD150, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy a seafood lunch with beautiful ocean views at The Pier Hotel.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Take a scenic walk along the Kaikoura Peninsula for stunning ocean views and possible wildlife sightings.
NZD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Green Dolphin

Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Green Dolphin, known for excellent seafood dishes.
NZD55, 1.5 hours
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Day Day 13: Drive to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on April 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before the drive to Christchurch, your final major stop.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Christchurch

Travel about 2.5 hours to Christchurch, known for its gardens and architecture.
NZD0, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely walk through the stunning Botanic Gardens in the heart of Christchurch.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dux Dine

Enjoy a lunch at The Dux Dine, known for fresh and sustainable dishes.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Canterbury Museum

Discover cultural and natural history at the Canterbury Museum.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Monday Room

Savor dinner at The Monday Room, offering a unique and delicious menu.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day Day 14: Return to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Christchurch before the journey back.
NZD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Queenstown

Make the 4-hour drive back to Queenstown with scenic stops along the way.
NZD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Stop for a delicious pizza or pasta at The Cow, a local favorite in Queenstown.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Last-minute Shopping in Queenstown

Spend your final hours shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a coffee at a local café.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Depart from Queenstown Airport

Return your car and head to the airport for your departure flight.
NZD0, 1 hour
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