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Ultimate 5-Day New Zealand North Island Adventure Itinerary

Viewed by 94 travelers

Day 1: Auckland Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast here, known for its classic American-style fare with a Kiwi twist – open from 7:30am.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sky Tower

Enjoy panoramic views of Auckland from the iconic Sky Tower – open from 9:00am to 10:00pm.
NZD32, 1h

11:00am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s history and Maori culture at this renowned museum, open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
NZD25, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Elliott Stables

Sample diverse dishes in this vibrant food hall in central Auckland – perfect for a relaxed lunch, open from 11:30am to late.
NZD30, 1h

2:30pm

Walk around Viaduct Harbour

Take a scenic walk by the waterfront, enjoy the yacht views and lively atmosphere – open public space.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Auckland Domain

Visit the largest park in Auckland with beautiful landscapes and gardens to unwind.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Depot Eatery

Enjoy fresh seafood and shared plates in a bustling casual setting – open until 10:00pm.
NZD45, 1h30m
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Day 2: Rotorua Geothermal Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand on May 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Fuel up with fresh, locally sourced breakfast options before heading out – open from 7:00am.
NZD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Rotorua (3 hours approx.)

Scenic drive south from Auckland through New Zealand’s beautiful countryside.
Fuel cost approx. NZD30, 3h

11:30am

Visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Village

Explore Maori culture and impressive geothermal activity in this living village – open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
NZD50, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Eat Streat

Enjoy a variety of café-style fare in a lively outdoor street precinct – open midday onwards.
NZD25, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in soothing geothermal pools with lake views, open 8:00am to 10:00pm.
NZD39, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Dine on modern New Zealand cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a cosy setting.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 3: Taupō Outdoors

Taupō, New Zealand on May 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Storehouse Eatery & Dispensary

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in a cosy café with great coffee, open from 7:30am.
NZD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Taupō (1 hour approx.)

Short morning drive to Taupō, gateway to outdoor adventures and lake activities.
Fuel cost approx. NZD10, 1h

9:00am

Huka Falls Walk

Take a 1-hour walk to see the spectacular Huka Falls, a powerful and scenic waterfall – accessible any time, best in daytime.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Lake Taupō Cruise

Enjoy a 2-hour scenic boat cruise on New Zealand's largest lake with stunning views.
NZD55, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Brantry

Lunch in an elegant setting offering seasonal New Zealand cuisine, open from 11:30am.
NZD40, 1h

2:30pm

Crater of the Moon Walk

Explore a fascinating geothermal walkway with steaming craters and fumaroles – open daylight hours.
NZD10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Drive to Wellington (4 hours approx.)

Evening drive to the capital city, enjoy scenic landscapes en route.
Fuel cost approx. NZD40, 4h

9:30pm

Late dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in fine dining featuring local produce in an elegant setting, kitchen open till 10pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 4: Wellington Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Café

Start your day with delicious coffee and classic breakfast on Cuba Street, open from 7:30am.
NZD22, 1h

9:30am

Te Papa Museum

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

12:00pm

Lunch at Sweet Mother’s Kitchen

Enjoy Southern US-inspired dishes in a funky, casual atmosphere, open 11:30am onwards.
NZD30, 1h

1:30pm

Cable Car & Botanic Gardens Walk

Ride Wellington’s historic cable car and stroll the beautiful botanic gardens - cable car runs 7:00am–10:00pm.
NZD9 return, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Cuba Street

Browse boutique shops, street art and coffee spots in vibrant Cuba Street precinct.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Savour fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed yet stylish setting – open until 9:30pm.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 5: Hobbiton & Auckland Return

Matamata to Auckland, New Zealand on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before departure for Hobbiton, ensuring an energetic start.
Included with accommodation, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Hobbiton Movie Set

Travel to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set for a magical guided tour – about 2 hours from Wellington, tours run 9:00am to 5:00pm.
NZD89, 2h

10:00am

Hobbiton Guided Tour

Experience the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings with a knowledgeable guide.
Included, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Green Dragon Inn

Enjoy themed pub fare and drinks in the authentic Hobbiton setting.
NZD30, 1h

1:30pm

Drive back to Auckland

Return to Auckland for your departure or further travel – approximately 2 hours drive.
Fuel cost approx. NZD30, 2h

4:00pm

Relax or last-minute shopping in Auckland

Spend your final afternoon at leisure exploring local shops or relaxing before your onward journey.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Grove

Conclude your trip with a fine dining experience at one of Auckland’s top restaurants, known for innovative NZ cuisine.
NZD75, 1h30m
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