Ultimate 15-Day New Zealand Adventure: From North Island Wonders to South Island Splendors

Day 1: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand on April 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this popular spot known for its New York deli-style dishes, perfect fuel for a day of exploring Auckland.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Sky Tower Visit

Head to the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of Auckland city and its harbours, a must-see to orient yourself with the city layout.
NZD32, 1h30m

11:30am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s rich history and Maori culture at this museum located in the Auckland Domain. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
NZD25, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Occidental Belgian Beer Cafe

Savour Belgian-inspired dishes and a great range of beers in this lively eatery, ideal for a relaxed lunch near the waterfront.
NZD30, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll Viaduct Harbour

Walk along the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, enjoy the marina views, and perhaps a coffee at one of the cafés while soaking in Auckland's waterfront charm.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Experience contemporary Kiwi cuisine in a trendy setting. Their menu reflects local ingredients and fusion style dishes. Open till 10:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Rotorua Natural Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand on April 19, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Rotorua

Start early with a scenic 3-hour drive from Auckland to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture.
NZD50 (car rental fuel approx.), 3h

10:30am

Breakfast at Capers Café

Enjoy wholesome breakfast fare at this local favourite serving fresh, organic produce, preparing you for an active day.
NZD25, 1h

11:45am

Te Puia Geothermal Reserve

Visit the famous geothermal park to witness geysers like Pohutu and explore Maori cultural performances. Open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
NZD60, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine atop Mt Ngongotaha with panoramic views over Rotorua, offering diverse dishes with local ingredients.
NZD45, 1h

3:30pm

Polynesian Spa

Relax in therapeutic geothermal pools and spa treatments that highlight Rotorua’s natural mineral waters. Open 10:00am to 10:00pm.
NZD35, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Savour delicious tapas and fresh dishes in a cosy environment popular with locals and visitors alike. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 3: Waitomo Caves Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Travel about 1.5 hours from Rotorua to Waitomo, famous for its stunning glowworm caves.
NZD20 (fuel approx.), 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Waitomo Homestead

A quaint spot offering classic breakfast options with fresh local produce, perfect before your cave exploration.
NZD20, 1h

10:30am

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Take the guided boat tour through the magical glowworm-lit caves, an enchanting experience suitable for all ages. Open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
NZD55, 1h30m

12:30pm

Black Water Rafting Adventure

For the adventurous, book a black water rafting tour to experience underground rivers and waterfalls with full gear and guides.
NZD195, 3h

4:00pm

Drive to Hamilton

After an adrenaline rush, drive around 1 hour to Hamilton for overnight stay.
NZD20 (fuel approx.), 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Palate Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary dining with a focus on local produce in a stylish setting in Hamilton. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Wellington Transit and Exploration

Wellington, New Zealand on April 21, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Hamilton to Wellington

Set out early on a 6-hour drive south to New Zealand’s capital, rich with culture and seaside charm.
NZD70 (fuel approx.), 6h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fidel’s Café

A quirky café known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent brunch menu, perfect to relax after the drive.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Visit New Zealand’s national museum featuring natural history, Maori culture, and contemporary art. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Cuba Street Walk and Coffee

Explore this lively street known for boutiques, street art, and cafés—stop for a coffee break at Midnight Espresso.
NZD10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Fine dining in a beautiful historic building offering modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 5: Picton and Marlborough Sounds

Picton, New Zealand on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Take the scenic 3-hour ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton across the Cook Strait, admired for stunning ocean and coastal views.
NZD85, 3h

11:30am

Breakfast/Lunch at Le Café

Relax upon arrival at Picton’s waterfront café offering fresh seafood and light meals with harbour views.
NZD30, 1h

1:00pm

Marlborough Sounds Cruise

Join a 2.5-hour cruise through the scenic Marlborough Sounds to experience pristine waters and spectacular forestry-covered bays.
NZD95, 2h30m

4:00pm

Walk Picton Foreshore

Take a leisurely stroll along the Picton waterfront and marina, soaking up the relaxed small-town vibe.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Gables Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining in Picton with local wines and gourmet dishes in an elegant setting, open till 9:00pm.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 6: Nelson and Abel Tasman

Nelson, New Zealand on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Nelson

Travel 2 hours from Picton south to the vibrant city of Nelson, known for arts, beaches, and gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.
NZD30 (fuel approx.), 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at The General Store

Popular for its fresh baked goods and good coffee, ideal for fueling your morning in Nelson.
NZD20, 1h

10:30am

Abel Tasman Guided Kayaking

Join a half-day guided kayaking tour along Abel Tasman’s golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, starting at 10am, lasting 4 hours.
NZD120, 4h

3:00pm

Beach Time and Walk

Relax at Anchorage Bay or take a short walk around the park’s coastal tracks after kayaking.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hopgoods Restaurant

Treat yourself to modern New Zealand cuisine with local produce in a friendly, stylish atmosphere. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 7: South Island Scenic Drive

Nelson to Franz Josef, New Zealand on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Nelson to Franz Josef Glacier

Long but scenic drive of around 7 hours southward through the West Coast with lush rainforests and coastal views.
NZD70 (fuel approx.), 7h

11:00am

Breakfast stop in Greymouth at Fat Pigeon

Known for excellent coffee and freshly baked pastries, perfect to recharge halfway through your journey.
NZD20, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at King Tiger Eastern Eating House & Bar, Franz Josef

Dine on Asian fusion cuisine with local ingredients in a lively atmosphere, open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 8: Franz Josef Glacier Exploration

Franz Josef, New Zealand on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Rȇve Café

Enjoy French-style breakfast pastries and good coffee to start the day near the glacier village.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Embark on a guided glacier valley walk or heli-hike for a spectacular close-up experience of the glacier. Walks depart early morning, lasting approx 3 hours.
NZD140 (guided walk), NZD600+ (heli-hike), 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Landing

Enjoy modern café fare and local produce, paired with glacier views in a casual setting.
NZD30, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Soak in natural hot pools surrounded by forest in the afternoon, ideal for soothing tired muscles after hiking. Open 9:00am to 9:00pm.
NZD32, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Alice May

Cozy restaurant offering homestyle New Zealand cuisine with hearty meals and local wines. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 9: Queenstown Adventure Start

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Queenstown

Travel 4 hours from Franz Josef to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
NZD50 (fuel approx.), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Famous for its gourmet burgers and must-try for visitors, expect a flavorful and satisfying meal.
NZD20, 1h

2:00pm

Skyline Gondola Ride

Take the gondola up Bob’s Peak for stunning views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Open 9:00am to 9:00pm.
NZD44, 2h

5:00pm

Luge Ride

Enjoy thrilling luge rides down the hill from the Skyline base, great for family fun or solo adrenaline seekers.
NZD35, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Rata Restaurant

Contemporary cuisine by a celebrity chef focusing on local ingredients in an elegant environment. Open till 9:30pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Fiordland Scenic Experience

Te Anau/Milford Sound, New Zealand on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Te Anau

2 hours drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
NZD30 (fuel approx.), 2h

8:30am

Breakfast at Miles Better Pies

Enjoy classic New Zealand meat pies and fresh coffee to start your day in Te Anau.
NZD15, 0h45m

9:30am

Milford Sound Day Tour

Full-day coach or self-drive tour to Milford Sound with a cruise on the fjord offering stunning waterfalls and wildlife viewing, tours run from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
NZD130, 8h

6:30pm

Dinner back in Queenstown at Botswana Butchery

Enjoy premium steaks and seafood with lake views in a sophisticated setting. Open till 9:30pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Adventure and Relaxation

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder

Trendy café offering fresh organic food and excellent coffee in central Queenstown.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Jet Boating on Shotover River

Experience a thrilling jet boat ride through the Shotover Canyons, a highlight of Queenstown adventures.
NZD159, 1h

11:30am

Wine Tasting Tour

Head out on an afternoon wine tour to Central Otago vineyards known for pinot noir, journeys typically take 3-4 hours.
NZD120, 4h

4:00pm

Visit Queenstown Gardens

Relax with a walk or a lakeside bench as you enjoy the peaceful botanical gardens in town.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door

Enjoy seasonal dishes paired with wines at this acclaimed winery restaurant. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD65, 1h30m
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Day 12: Dunedin Historical Tour

Dunedin, New Zealand on April 29, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Dunedin

Approximate 3.5 hour scenic drive from Queenstown to Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and wildlife.
NZD40 (fuel approx.), 3h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Morning Magpie

A local favourite café specializing in coffee and fresh, creative breakfasts.
NZD20, 1h

12:00pm

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Book a guided tour to see albatross, penguins, and seals on this scenic wildlife hotspot. Tours run from 12:30pm lasting 4 hours.
NZD90, 4h

5:00pm

Walk Historic Dunedin Railway Station

Visit this architectural gem and take photos of one of New Zealand’s most photographed buildings.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Plato Dining Room and Bar

Delight in innovative New Zealand cuisine with a strong local seafood focus, open till 9:00pm.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 13: Christchurch City Tour

Christchurch, New Zealand on April 30, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Christchurch

Travel from Dunedin to Christchurch, approximately 5 hours by road through South Island’s diverse landscapes.
NZD50 (fuel approx.), 5h

12:30pm

Lunch at C1 Espresso

Innovative café known for robot baristas and creative food combos, perfect introduction to Christchurch cuisine.
NZD25, 1h

2:00pm

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through one of New Zealand’s finest gardens featuring diverse plant collections and Avon River surrounds. Open 7:30am to 7:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Canterbury Museum

Discover local history, Maori culture, and natural history exhibits in this centrally located museum. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Riverside Market Food Court

Explore diverse food stalls with global cuisines in a lively market atmosphere, great for casual dining.
NZD30, 1h
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Day 14: Akaroa Day Trip

Akaroa, New Zealand on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Drive to Akaroa

An hour’s scenic drive from Christchurch leads you to this charming French-inspired historic town on Banks Peninsula.
NZD20 (fuel approx.), 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at The Little Bistro

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee in this cozy and highly rated Akaroa café.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Dolphin Swimming or Harbour Cruise

Join a dolphin swim experience or a harbor cruise to spot rare Hector’s dolphins and other marine life. Tours depart around 9:30am and 11:30am, lasting approx 1.5 hours.
NZD130 (swim), NZD50 (cruise), 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Brasserie

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes in a beautiful waterfront setting, open till 3pm.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Walk Akaroa Village & French Bay

Explore historic streets, boutique shops, and waterfront parks at a leisurely pace.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch to prepare for departure or additional sightseeing.
NZD20 (fuel approx.), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Modern New Zealand dining with open kitchen and seasonal menus, a fine way to conclude your journey. Open till 9:00pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 15: Departure Day

Christchurch, New Zealand on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Black Betty Café

Enjoy your final New Zealand breakfast with excellent coffee and locally sourced dishes in a vibrant setting.
NZD25, 1h

10:00am

Christchurch Airport Transfer

Head to Christchurch International Airport for your onward journey or return flight home.
NZD50 (taxi/shuttle approx.), 1h
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