12-Day New Zealand Adventure: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Iconic Hikes from Auckland to Christchurch

Day 1: Auckland to Waitomo Caves

Auckland to Waitomo Caves, New Zealand on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this popular Auckland deli, known for generous portions and locally sourced ingredients.

NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive Auckland to Waitomo Caves

Travel about 2.5 hours south from Auckland to the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves region, famed for its glowworm displays.

Fuel cost approx NZD40, 2h30m

12:00pm

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Explore the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves via guided boat tour to witness thousands of bioluminescent glowworms illuminating the cave ceilings.

NZD60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Huhu Café

Savor modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh local produce in a cozy setting near Waitomo.

NZD30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive to National Park Village - Tongariro Region

Head about 2.5 hours southeast to National Park Village, the gateway for Tongariro Alpine Crossing trail.

Fuel cost approx NZD40, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Station Café Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in National Park Village featuring Kiwi pub classics and hearty meals perfect for preparing for the hike next day.

NZD35, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand on May 16, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel or Café

Fuel up early with a nutritious breakfast to get ready for the full-day challenging Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike.

NZD20, 0h45m

7:00am

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike

Embark on one of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes, offering volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and panoramic views. Note the hike generally takes 7-9 hours and the weather can be variable.

Free, 8h0m

4:30pm

Post-Hike Snack and Rest

Relax and enjoy light refreshments at your accommodation or local café in National Park Village.

NZD15, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Plateau Restaurant & Bar

Dine with a focus on local ingredients and hearty meals perfect for recovering after the demanding crossing.

NZD40, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Runanga Waterfalls

Runanga, New Zealand on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tramping Lodge Café

Enjoy breakfast near Tongariro with options suited for energetic travelers.

NZD20, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Runanga

Head southwest approximately 5.5 hours to Runanga on the West Coast to explore the Coal Creek Falls Track.

Fuel cost approx NZD60, 5h30m

2:15pm

Coal Creek Falls Track Walk

Take a moderate hike through lush rainforest to stunning waterfalls featuring scenic views and tranquil surroundings. The walk generally takes 1 hour each way.

Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Runanga Tavern

Sample local beers and hearty pub meals in the charming Runanga town.

NZD30, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Hokitika Gorge Exploration

Hokitika, New Zealand on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mile High Café, Runanga

Start with a fresh and filling breakfast to prepare for your day at Hokitika Gorge.

NZD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Hokitika

Short 30-minute drive to Hokitika, a town famous for its jade and coastal scenery.

Fuel cost approx NZD10, 0h30m

10:00am

Hokitika Gorge Walk

Experience the spectacular turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge with an easy walk across the suspension bridge and along river trails. Open daily with free access.

Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Green Peacock Restaurant

Enjoy fresh local meats and vegetarian options in a welcoming environment in Hokitika.

NZD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tatare Tunnels Walk

Drive approximately 55 minutes south and take a unique walk around the historic Tatare Tunnels, known for its natural beauty and walking tracks.

Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hokitika Beachfront Hotel

Enjoy a cozy dinner with views or near the beach, featuring fresh seafood.

NZD40, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Franz Josef, New Zealand on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kokopelli Bakery & Café, Hokitika

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee before heading south.

NZD20, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive Hokitika to Franz Josef

Travel approx 2 hours south to the Franz Josef Glacier area.

Fuel cost approx NZD20, 2h0m

10:30am

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Explore the glacier valley walk offering incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier terminus and the surrounding rainforest. Accessible year-round and free.

Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Landing

Dine on fresh and locally inspired dishes in a comfortable setting in Franz Josef village.

NZD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Glacier Hot Pools

Relax in the natural thermal hot pools heated by the glacier’s geothermal activity. Open 9am-9pm.

NZD30, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Alice May Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy gourmet dinner featuring local produce and wines in Franz Josef village.

NZD40, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Fox Glacier Valley Walk

Fox Glacier, New Zealand on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Last Kitchen, Franz Josef

Have a delightful breakfast before your short drive to Fox Glacier.

NZD25, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive Franz Josef to Fox Glacier

Take a scenic 30-minute drive south to Fox Glacier village.

Fuel cost approx NZD10, 0h30m

9:45am

Fox Glacier Valley Walk

Enjoy an easy 1.5-hour walk through native forest and river valley to views of Fox Glacier. The trail is well-maintained and open year-round.

Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The White Pub

Relax with casual meals and a friendly atmosphere close to the glacier area.

NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Optional: Guided Glacier Valley Heli-Hike or Scenic Flight

Consider booking a helicopter glacier walk or scenic flight for an unforgettable aerial view (book in advance, seasonal availability).

NZD350+, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Kaiwhekea Café

Enjoy fresh and health-conscious local dishes in Fox Glacier village.

NZD35, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rosa’s Café, Fox Glacier

Fuel up with a great breakfast before the scenic drive east.

NZD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Drive about 5.5 hours through spectacular South Island landscapes to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Fuel cost approx NZD70, 5h30m

3:00pm

Check-in and Relax at Queenstown hotel

Take some downtime after the long drive to enjoy Queenstown’s vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation cost varies, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at Fergburger

Try the iconic gourmet burgers that Queenstown is famous for; a must-visit casual dining spot.

NZD20-30, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Queenstown Adventure Day

Queenstown, New Zealand on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

Enjoy excellent coffee and creative breakfasts to energize a busy adventure day.

NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Skyline Gondola & Luge

Take a gondola ride up Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu followed by several thrilling luge rides. Open 9am-9pm.

NZD60, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Rustic Italian fare in a cozy, historic Queenstown building famous for its pasta and pizzas.

NZD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk Queenstown Gardens & Waterfront

Leisurely walk exploring the beautiful lakeside gardens and mountain views, great for photos and relaxing.

Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at Rata

Dine at a fine dining restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett featuring NZ seasonal produce.

NZD70+, 1h30m

View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Hooker Valley Track Hike

Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand on May 23, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast in Queenstown

Get an early start with a quick breakfast before heading north to Mount Cook National Park.

NZD20, 0h45m

7:30am

Drive Queenstown to Mount Cook Village

Drive approximately 3.5 hours north to Mount Cook National Park, the base for Hooker Valley Track.

Fuel cost approx NZD45, 3h30m

11:00am

Hooker Valley Track Hike

Embark on this iconic 3-hour return walk offering stunning views of Mount Cook, swinging bridges, and glacial valley landscapes. Track is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels.

Free, 3h0m