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Ultimate 4-Week New Zealand Adventure: North & South Island Highlights

Viewed by 115 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Arrival & Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bestie Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with excellent coffee and locally sourced ingredients to fuel your day exploring Auckland.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Discover New Zealand’s history, Maori culture, and natural environment in this iconic museum with panoramic views of the city.
NZD25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Savour a classic New York-style deli lunch with a Kiwi twist in the heart of downtown Auckland.
NZD25, 1h

1:30pm

Sky Tower Visit

Experience spectacular city vistas from the Sky Tower observation deck and, for thrill seekers, try the SkyJump or SkyWalk activities.
NZD35, 1h

3:00pm

Walk Auckland Waterfront

Stroll along the Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter, enjoying lively cafés and harbour views.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

Dine in Auckland’s revolving restaurant atop the Sky Tower, offering panoramic night views alongside modern New Zealand cuisine.
NZD70, 2h
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Day 2: Bay of Islands Adventure

Paihia, New Zealand on April 22, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at The Good Juju

Fuel up with fresh, organic breakfast options before heading north to the Bay of Islands by car or bus (approx 3 hours).
NZD20, 1h

10:00am

Arrive Bay of Islands and Check-in

Settle in Paihia, the gateway for exploring the stunning Bay of Islands.
Varies, 0.5h

10:30am

Boat Tour to Hole in the Rock

Take a scenic cruise around the Bay, including a visit to the famous Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island. This tour often includes dolphin spotting.
NZD90, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Charlotte’s Kitchen

Enjoy casual dining with fresh seafood and local produce right on the waterfront.
NZD30, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Visit this historic site where New Zealand’s founding document was signed, featuring cultural performances and museum exhibitions.
NZD30, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Gables Restaurant

Dine in an elegant colonial-style restaurant offering fine local cuisine in Paihia.
NZD65, 2h
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Day 3: Rotorua Geothermal & Maori Culture

Rotorua, New Zealand on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy a healthy and hearty breakfast to prepare for a full day of exploration.
NZD22, 1h

8:30am

Travel from Bay of Islands to Rotorua

Drive or take a domestic flight (approx 5 hours by road) heading south to Rotorua, a key geothermal and cultural hub.
Varies, 5h

2:00pm

Visit Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village

Explore Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscapes while learning about Maori culture and traditional crafts in this living village.
NZD50, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural hot mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, open until 9pm, perfect after a day of travel and sightseeing.
NZD45, 2h

7:00pm

Traditional Maori Hangi & Cultural Performance Dinner

Experience an authentic Maori hangi feast alongside cultural performances including dance and song.
NZD85, 3h
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Day 4: Taupo & Waterfall Hiking

Taupo, New Zealand on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

Enjoy specialty coffee and fresh, vibrant breakfast fare to start your day energized.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Travel Rotorua to Taupo

Short scenic drive south (about 1 hour), arriving in Taupo, known for its lake and natural attractions.
Varies, 1h

10:30am

Huka Falls Walk

Visit the spectacular Huka Falls where the Waikato River narrows and cascades powerfully; an easy and popular hike suitable for all ages.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Bistro Lago

Dine overlooking Lake Taupo with a menu focused on fresh local ingredients and lake views.
NZD35, 1h

1:30pm

Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk

Explore this otherworldly geothermal area of bubbling craters and steam vents on an easy 45-minute walk.
NZD8, 1h

3:00pm

Taupo Bungy or Jet Boat Ride (Optional)

For adventure enthusiasts, try the Taupo Bungy jump or a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waikato River, both operating through the afternoon.
From NZD150, 1-2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Brantry

Enjoy modern New Zealand cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a stylish lakeside setting.
NZD55, 2h
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Day 5: Wellington City & Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Cafe

Savour a hearty and artistic breakfast in this iconic Cuba Street café before your journey to the capital.
NZD22, 1h

8:30am

Travel Taupo to Wellington

Drive south to Wellington (approx 5 hours) or take a domestic flight for a quicker transfer to New Zealand’s vibrant capital city.
Varies, 5h

2:00pm

Visit Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum

Explore New Zealand’s national museum showcasing art, history, and interactive Māori and Pacific exhibits - entry is free.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Cable Car Ride to Kelburn & Botanic Gardens

Take the historic Wellington Cable Car for panoramic city views and wander the lush Botanic Gardens, open until late.
NZD12, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Dine at one of Wellington’s top fine dining venues, known for innovative dishes featuring local produce.
NZD65, 2h
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Day 6: Picton & Marlborough Wine

Picton, New Zealand on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Cafe Wellington

Enjoy a filling breakfast before travelling to Picton via ferry, a scenic trip across Cook Strait (approximately 3 hours).
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Ferry Wellington to Picton

Cross over to the South Island on the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry, soaking in stunning waterway views.
NZD65, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Gusto

Enjoy fresh local seafood and Italian-inspired dishes in Picton’s lively village centre.
NZD30, 1h

2:00pm

Marlborough Wine Tasting Tour

Spend the afternoon visiting renowned wineries around Marlborough, sampling world-class Sauvignon Blancs and local varietals.
NZD85, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Gusto Eatery & Bar

Relax with casual dining in Picton with a great menu of international and local favourites.
NZD40, 1.5h
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Day 7: Kaikoura Whale Watching

Kaikoura, New Zealand on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Olive Cafe

Start early with a fresh breakfast to prepare for whale watching activities in Kaikoura.
NZD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive Picton to Kaikoura

Travel south along the coast (approx 2.5 hours) to Kaikoura, famous for marine wildlife encounters.
Varies, 2.5h

11:00am

Whale Watching Cruise

Experience a remarkable whale-watching tour to see giant sperm whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat, operating morning and afternoon.
NZD130, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Pier Hotel

Enjoy fresh seafood with scenic views of the Kaikoura Bay.
NZD35, 1h

4:00pm

Walk Kaikoura Peninsula Seal Colony

A short walk to see lively fur seals relaxing along the coastline, free access and great for wildlife photos.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Green Dolphin Restaurant

Dine on New Zealand’s freshest seafood in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
NZD50, 2h
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Day 8: Christchurch City & Gardens

Christchurch, New Zealand on April 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Try innovative breakfast and specialty coffee at this award-winning downtown Christchurch café.
NZD22, 1h

9:00am

Drive Kaikoura to Christchurch

Travel south along the Pacific coast for approx 2.5 hours to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island.
Varies, 2.5h

12:00pm

Visit Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore beautiful and extensive gardens with diverse plant collections and relaxing green spaces, open daily from 7am to 9pm.
Free, 1.5h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Curator’s House

Enjoy fusion cuisine in a charming heritage villa setting in central Christchurch.
NZD35, 1h

3:00pm

Canterbury Museum Visit

Learn about the region’s cultural and natural history in this free museum open until 5pm daily.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Tram Ride Through City

Take a historic Christchurch tram to appreciate the city center’s revitalisation and street art.
NZD25, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Dine on European-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a stylish atmosphere.
NZD60, 2h
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Day 9: Lake Tekapo & Stargazing

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on April 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Culture

Have a fulfilling breakfast with great coffee and light bites before heading to Lake Tekapo.
NZD18, 1h

8:00am

Drive Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Travel inland for approx 3 hours to the beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, famous for its scenery and dark skies.
Varies, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Reflections Cafe & Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
NZD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Church of the Good Shepherd

Photograph the iconic stone church sitting on the lake's edge, a must-see landmark.
Free, 30m

2:00pm

Tekapo Springs Hot Pools

Relax in thermal pools with mountain views, open until 9pm, ideal for afternoon leisure.
NZD40, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Wilderness Lake Tekapo

Experience fine dining with a focus on local ingredients alongside spectacular lake views.
NZD65, 2h

9:30pm

Stargazing at Mount John Observatory

Visit the Dark Sky Reserve with guided tours available to experience the spectacular southern night sky.
NZD42, 2h
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Day 10: Queenstown Adventure Sports

Queenstown, New Zealand on April 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder Queenstown

Enjoy a vibrant breakfast with great coffee to prepare for adventure activities ahead.
NZD22, 1h

8:30am

Drive Lake Tekapo to Queenstown

Scenic journey through alpine terrain southbound to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, approx 3 hours.
Varies, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Try world-famous gourmet burgers that attract locals and tourists alike in Queenstown’s centre.
NZD20, 1h

1:30pm

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through narrow canyons on the Shotover River, lasting 1 hour.
NZD130, 1h

3:30pm

Skyline Gondola Ride & Luge

Ride to Bob's Peak by gondola for panoramic views and enjoy some family-friendly luge rides.
NZD55, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rata

Dine on refined New Zealand cuisine in a stylish environment by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett.
NZD75, 2h
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Day 11: Fiordland & Milford Sound

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand on May 1, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

Grab a quick, quality breakfast to ensure an early start for your Milford Sound trip.
NZD20, 30m

7:00am

Drive Queenstown to Milford Sound

Early scenic drive approx 4 hours to Milford Sound through Fiordland National Park, with breathtaking views on the way.
Varies, 4h

11:30am

Milford Sound Boat Cruise

Cruise the iconic fjord featuring towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife including seals and penguins; tours run daily until late afternoon.
NZD90, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch aboard cruise or Visitor Centre Cafe

Enjoy lunch with beautiful views either on the boat or at the Milford Sound Visitor Centre café.
NZD25, 1h

3:30pm

Return Drive to Queenstown

Scenic drive back through Fiordland, allowing time to stop for photos and short walks.
Varies, 4h

8:00pm

Dinner at Flame Bar and Grill

Relax with a hearty meal featuring premium steaks and local produce after a long day of sightseeing.
NZD50, 2h
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