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21-Day Ultimate Nature and Waterfalls Adventure in New Zealand

Viewed by 71 travelers

Day 1: Redwoods & Hobbiton

Rotorua, New Zealand on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local produce to fuel your day.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Redwoods Treewalk

Explore the 23 suspension bridges and elevated walkways among majestic Californian Redwoods; an immersive forest experience.
NZD35, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Third Place Café

Sample fresh sandwiches and salads in a relaxed garden setting.
NZD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Discover the fascinating movie set where The Lord of the Rings was filmed, with picturesque scenery and guides sharing stories.
NZD89, 3h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Straits Café

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes with views of the lake.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 2: Okere Falls & Ziplining

Rotorua, New Zealand on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Flour & Oak

A great spot for artisan coffee and baked goods to energize you.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Okere Falls Track

Take a scenic walk along the river to see the picturesque Okere Falls and natural rock slides.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Storehouse

Casual dining spot with delicious pizzas and local fare.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Ziplining Adventure

Experience thrilling zipline tours through forest canopy and over lush landscapes in Rotorua.
NZD120, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a great atmosphere.
NZD45, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 3: Waitomo Glowworms

Waitomo, New Zealand on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

A light breakfast before driving to Waitomo Caves.
NZD15, 0h45m

9:30am

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Explore spectacular caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms, followed by a guided boat ride inside the cave.
NZD55, 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Huhu Café

Relax with fresh, wholesome lunch options in the village.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:00pm

Local Walks

Short nature walks around Waitomo to enjoy the lush greenery and rural landscapes.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at The Green Dragon

Warm up with hearty Kiwi dishes and a relaxed ambiance.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Waitomo

Day 4: Taupo Waterfalls & Tracks

Taupo, New Zealand on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Storehouse Taupo

Well-known for healthy breakfast and excellent coffee.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Wainui Falls Track

Enjoy a scenic 40-minute walk through native forest to the impressive Wainui waterfalls.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Te Waihou Walk (Blue Spring)

Famous for crystal clear blue spring water that supplies much of NZ's bottled water, this is a peaceful walk through stunning wetlands.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Vine Eatery & Bar

Modern dining with focus on local ingredients and wines.
NZD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Blue Pools Track

A short track leading to beautiful blue pools beneath swinging suspension bridges over the Makarora River.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Brantry

Enjoy upscale cuisine with fresh regional produce in a contemporary setting.
NZD45, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 5: Rob Roy Glacier Track

Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand on May 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel yourself early for the long day of hiking.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Rob Roy Glacier Track

A 10km return hike offering stunning views of Rob Roy Glacier and surrounding peaks, through pristine rainforest and alpine terrain.
Free, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch picnic on trail

Pack lunch to enjoy with spectacular glacier views.
DIY, 1h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at The Flying Fox

A great stop for hearty local meals after hiking near Wanaka.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park

Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Glacier View Café

Enjoy breakfast with views of the glacier valley.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

A moderate 1-2 hour walk providing views of the glacier terminal face and ice formations.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Alice May

Local favourite with hearty dishes and a warm atmosphere.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Glacier Hot Pools

Relax in warm, naturally heated pools surrounded by rainforest.
NZD25, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at King Tiger Eastern Eating House

Savour Asian-fusion dishes perfect after a day's adventure.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 7: Tasman River & Jet Boating

Mount Cook/Tasman, New Zealand on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Hermitage Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast with majestic views of Mount Cook.
NZD30, 1h0m

9:00am

Tasman River Viewpoint

Take in spectacular glacial river landscapes and surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Jet Boating on Tasman River

Thrilling jet boat ride through braided river channels with views of the mountains.
NZD170, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Old Mountaineers' Café

Classic Kiwi café serving delicious meals in a cosy setting.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hooker Valley Track

A scenic walk over swing bridges with stunning mountain and glacier views.
Free, 3h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Panorama Room

Enjoy fine dining with breathtaking alpine views.
NZD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Mount Cook/Tasman

Day 8: Milford Sound Adventure

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand on May 31, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at accommodation

Light and quick breakfast to start early journey.
Included, 0h30m

7:00am

Drive to Milford Sound

Scenic 4-hour drive through spectacular Fiordland National Park.
Free, 4h0m

11:30am

Milford Sound Cruise

Explore majestic fjords, waterfalls and wildlife on a 2-hour guided cruise.
NZD120, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Milford Sound Lodge

Simple meals with great views of the fiord.
NZD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Short Walks: Milford Foreshore

Gentle stroll with stunning views of Mitre Peak and waterfalls.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Return to accommodation

Drive back or stay overnight locally if preferred.
Free, 4h0m
Find Hotels in Fiordland National Park

Day 9: Moon Geothermal Walk

Taupo, New Zealand on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Evolution Café

Vibrant café with excellent coffee and wholesome breakfast.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Craters of the Moon - Moon Geothermal Walk

Enjoy an easy 45-minute loop through geothermal craters and steam vents with informative signage.
NZD8, 1h0m

11:00am

Visit Huka Falls

Walk the easy tracks to see the powerful and iconic waterfall on the Waikato River.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bistro Lago

Dine overlooking Lake Taupo with contemporary dishes.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Jet Boating on Waikato River

Thrilling jet boat ride with exciting turns and scenic river views.
NZD130, 1h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at The Peak Restaurant

Upscale dining with panoramic lake views perfect for an end-of-day treat.
NZD60, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Taupo

Day 10: Star Gazing at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Astro Café

Fuel up for your day surrounded by mountain views.
NZD25, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Lake Tekapo

Walk along the shores and visit iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Reflections Café & Restaurant

Relaxed dining with lovely lake views and delicious menu options.
NZD35, 1h0m

3:00pm

Tekapo Springs Hot Pools

Relax in hot pools or try stargazing tours offered by the facility.
NZD35, 2h0m

7:30pm

Star Gazing Tour

Join a guided tour to experience the darkest skies with telescopes and expert commentary.
NZD75, 2h0m

10:30pm

Overnight at Lake Tekapo accommodation

Stay locally to maximise your star gazing experience.
NZD150, Overnight
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

Day 11: Blue Springs & More

Putaruru, New Zealand on June 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Fat Dog Café

Freshly made options in a cosy setting to start your day.
NZD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Blue Springs Walk

Admire crystal-clear blue water in natural spring and take a gentle walk around the area, perfect for nature lovers.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Justin’s Café & Bar

Casual local dining with a variety of options.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Afternoon Walk to Wainui Falls

Take an easy walk in the Whirinaki Forest Park to see the spectacular Wainui Falls.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Redoubt Bar & Eatery

Enjoy classic Kiwi pub food to round out your day.
NZD30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Putaruru

Day 12: White Water Rafting

Tongariro River, New Zealand on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up early before an adrenaline-packed day.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

White Water Rafting on Tongariro River

Experience thrilling grade 3-4 rapids with stunning volcanic scenery on a 2.5-hour guided rafting trip.
NZD130, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bulls Café

Relax with hearty meals and local favourites after rafting.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Leisurely Afternoon Walk

Explore nearby Te Waihou Walk if missed earlier or local short trails to relax muscles.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Redoubt Bar & Eatery

Casual dining with local flavours to end your active day.
NZD35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tongariro River

Day 13: Travel & Leisure Day

Queenstown, New Zealand on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Quality coffee and breakfast favourites in Queenstown.
NZD25, 1h0m

10:00am

Travel to Queenstown

Drive or flight from Taupo/Milford depending on logistical preference.
Varies, 3-4h

2:00pm

Leisurely exploration of Queenstown Gardens

Stroll the beautiful lakeside gardens and enjoy stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Rata

Fine dining with a focus on South Island flavours created by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett.
NZD65, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 14: More Queenstown Adventures

Queenstown, New Zealand on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

A favourite spot for fresh, healthy breakfasts and gourmet coffee.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:00am

Skyline Gondola and Luge

Take gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views and thrilling luge rides.
NZD65, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Sample the iconic gourmet burgers, a must-do Queenstown experience.
NZD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Jet Boating on Shotover River

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through narrow river canyons.
NZD150, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relaxation at Lake Wakatipu

Walk or rest by the lakeside, soaking in scenery.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Upscale restaurant serving premium steaks and seafood in a stylish setting.
NZD70, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 15: Te Anau & Fiordland

Te Anau, New Zealand on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Miles Better Pies

Renowned pies and breakfast options for a quick meal.
NZD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Te Anau

Short scenic drive to gateway of Fiordland.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Kepler Track Short Walk

Sample part of the famous Kepler Track with forest and lake views.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Redcliff Café

Dine on hearty meals including vegetarian options.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Lake Te Anau Walks

Explore easy lakeside paths and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Comfort food in a relaxed local pub setting.
NZD35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 16: More Fiordland & Return

Te Anau / Queenstown, New Zealand on June 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Early breakfast before more Fiordland explorations.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Mirror Lakes and Lake Gunn Walk

Enjoy short and serene walks seeing iconic Fiordland scenery reflecting in lakes and forest.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch picnic

Bring provisions or stop at a café en route back.
NZD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Travel back to Queenstown

Scenic afternoon drive to Queenstown.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Blue Kanu

Dinner blending Pacific and Asian flavours in a lively environment.
NZD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Te Anau / Queenstown

Day 17: Leisure & Nature

Queenstown, New Zealand on June 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Exchange

Great start with creative breakfasts and coffee.
NZD22, 1h0m

10:00am

Queenstown Hill Time Walk

Climb the 2-3 hour walk for spectacular views across Queenstown and lakes.
Free, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Bespoke Kitchen

Healthy options and refreshing juices to recharge after the walk.
NZD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relaxation by Lake Wakatipu

Time to unwind by the lake or explore local shops and galleries.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Madam Woo

Asian street food style dishes in a unique and casual dining spot.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 18: Wainui Falls Revisit or New Track

Near Whakatane, New Zealand on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for travel or a nature morning.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Travel to Wainui Falls Track

Drive to Wainui Falls near Whakatane for a peaceful forest walk to refreshing waterfalls.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Hike Wainui Falls Track

Enjoy the beauty of waterfalls amid native forest, perfect for calming nature immersion.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Historic Wainui Hotel

Eat in a charming historic building serving local dishes.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at nearby beaches or explore town

Afternoon to soak in the coastal surroundings or local culture and shops.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Whakatane Thai

Spicy and fresh Thai cuisine to end the day.
NZD35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Near Whakatane

Day 19: Nature Walks & Water Bridges

Rotorua / Tauranga, New Zealand on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Little India Café (Rotorua)

Unusual but excellent start with exotic flavours.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Te Waihou Walk & Water Bridge

Explore the waterside walk to the famous vibrant turquoise spring and charming wooden water bridges.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch on route to Tauranga

Stop at a café for light lunch or picnic.
NZD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Mount Maunganui

Scenic walks up the mount with ocean and city views; sandy beaches to relax.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Cascade Eatery (Mount Maunganui)

Casual dining with seafood & local dishes by the harbour.
NZD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Rotorua / Tauranga

Day 20: Relax & Reflect

Rotorua, New Zealand on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hello Beasty

Modern café with flavorful breakfasts and artisan coffees.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Leisure Day or Spa Treatment

Choose to relax at Polynesian Spa or revisit favourite spots like Redwoods Treewalk or local markets.
NZD50-80, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Eat Streat

Try various eateries in this lively dining street.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Government Gardens and Rotorua Museum

Enjoy beautiful gardens and learn local history if open. Check museum for possible closures.
NZD15, 2h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Moose Bar & Restaurant

Rustic lodge dining with hearty and tasty fare to celebrate your trip.
NZD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Rotorua

Day 21: Departure

Rotorua, New Zealand on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Light breakfast before travel.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Transfer to Airport

Head to Rotorua or nearest airport for departure.
Varies, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Rotorua
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