14-Day New Zealand Adventure from Melbourne: Glowworm Caves, Bungee Jumping, and Cultural Exploration

Day 1: Arrival & Explore

Auckland, New Zealand on July 6, 2025

9:00am

Flight from Melbourne to Auckland

Take an early flight for the most part of the day to explore Auckland, NZ’s largest city full of urban culture and harbor views.
NZD150, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy classic New York-style deli sandwiches in a casual atmosphere, open from 11am to late.
NZD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s natural history, Maori culture, and Pacific treasures. Open 10am to 5pm.
NZD25, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk Auckland Waterfront and Viaduct Harbour

A great relaxing stroll with views of the harbor and vibrant nightlife.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Grove

Modern NZ dining experience featuring fresh local ingredients, open till 10pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 2: Cultural Day

Rotorua, New Zealand on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Bus to Rotorua

Budget-friendly bus ride to Rotorua (~3 hours), a hub for geothermal and Maori culture.
NZD30, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Fat Dog Cafe

Popular spot for casual dining with hearty New Zealand favorites near Rotorua center.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts

See geysers, boiling mud, and enjoy Maori cultural performances. Open 8:00am–5:00pm.
NZD55, 3h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural hot springs with stunning lake views, open until 10pm.
NZD35, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Atticus Finch

A cozy restaurant serving modern dishes with local ingredients, open till 9pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 3: Glowworm Caves

Waitomo, New Zealand on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Travel bus to Waitomo

Journey by bus about 2 hours southwest to Waitomo to visit famous glowworm caves.
NZD25, 2h0m

10:00am

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Guided boat tour under thousands of glowworms lighting the caves, open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
NZD50, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Huhu Cafe

Casual, locally loved cafe for healthy and fresh options near the caves.
NZD20, 1h0m

1:00pm

Travel bus to Taupo

Continue east for about 2.5 hours to Taupo, a hotspot for adventure sports.
NZD30, 2h30m

4:00pm

Explore Lake Taupo waterfront

Relax and admire New Zealand’s largest lake and surrounding volcanic scenery.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Plateau Restaurant

Upmarket but cozy eatery focusing on local produce and wine, open till 9pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 4: Bungee & Adventure

Taupo, New Zealand on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Taupo Bungy Jump

Experience New Zealand’s first commercially operated bungy jump off the historic Taupo Bungy Bridge, open 8am to 5pm.
NZD140, 2h0m

10:30am

Skydiving or Jet Boating on Lake Taupo

Choose adrenaline-packed skydiving with spectacular views or thrilling jet boat rides available daily around the lake.
NZD350 (skydiving) or NZD120 (jet boating), 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Brantry

Farm-style café offering hearty breakfast and lunch in a rustic setting, open 7am to 3pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Huka Falls Walk

Short scenic walk to view the powerful falls of Waikato River, open all day.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Vine Eatery & Bar

Contemporary New Zealand cuisine featuring local wines and seasonal ingredients, open till 9pm.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 5: Travel to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Bus to Wellington

Long scenic bus ride (about 6 hours) south to Wellington, the capital city known for arts and café culture.
NZD45, 6h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Fidel’s Cafe

Iconic bohemian café on Cuba Street serving eclectic and hearty meals, open until 5pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Te Papa Museum

National museum showcasing New Zealand’s history and art with interactive exhibitions. Open 10am to 6pm.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Walk Along Wellington Waterfront

Enjoy a relaxing stroll watching boats and vibrant street art with plenty of cafés and bars.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Upscale restaurant celebrated for inventive local dishes and elegant setting, open until 9pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 6: Chill & Culture

Wellington, New Zealand on July 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Olive Cafe

Award-winning café with creative breakfasts and excellent coffee, open from 7:30am.
NZD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Cable Car to Kelburn

Ride the historic cable car for panoramic views and visit the Botanic Gardens.
NZD5, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chocolate Fish Cafe

Contemporary New Zealand flavors with a seaside vibe, located near the harbor.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Weta Workshop Tour

Experience behind the scenes of the famous film effects studio. Book ahead, open 9:30am-4:30pm.
NZD60, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Oriental Bay Beach

Chill and walk on the sandy beach near the city center.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Fresh seafood dishes with a stylish atmosphere, open till 9pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 7: Travel to Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on July 12, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Queenstown

Fly early from Wellington to Queenstown for adventure hub, approx 1.5 hour flight.
NZD100, 1h30m

9:00am

Check-in and light breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Local favorite with great coffee and fresh healthy options right in downtown Queenstown.
NZD20, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Peaceful walk with lake views and scenic nature trails.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bespoke Kitchen

Bright, casual spot with fresh produce and inventive dishes, open all day.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Exciting fast-paced jet boat adventure through narrow canyons, open daily 9am–5pm.
NZD135, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Lake Wakatipu Shore

Enjoy the sunset and serene lake atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rata

Award-winning fine dining by Michelin-starred chef, advanced booking recommended.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: More Adventure

Queenstown, New Zealand on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump

The original commercial bungy jump spot, open daily from 8am to sunset. Ideal for morning jump to beat crowds.
NZD205, 2h0m

11:00am

Breakfast/Late Brunch at Fergbaker

World-famous bakery with delicious pastries and savory dishes in the bustling town center.
NZD20, 1h0m

12:30pm

Gondola Ride to Bob's Peak & Luge

Take the scenic gondola for panoramic views and enjoy fun luge rides, open 9am to late.
NZD60, 3h0m

4:00pm

Free Time & Explore Local Shops

Wander Queenstown’s charming shops and cafes at your own pace.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Elegant dining spot known for quality meats and local wines, open till 10pm.
NZD75, 1h30m
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Day 9: Day Trip Excursion

Milford Sound, New Zealand on July 14, 2025

6:00am

Milford Sound Day Tour by Bus and Cruise

Early start for a full-day guided bus tour to Milford Sound with breathtaking fjord cruise, open year-round.
NZD150, 12h0m

6:30pm

Return and Dinner at Pub on Wharf

Relax with casual meals and local beers right on Queenstown’s waterfront after your long day.
NZD40, 1h0m
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Day 10: Leisure & Local

Queenstown, New Zealand on July 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe

Start leisurely with excellent coffee and breakfast options, perfect to relax.
NZD20, 1h0m

10:30am

Lake Wakatipu Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Enjoy peaceful water adventure rental activities for 2-3 hours along Queenstown’s lake.
NZD50, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Iconic burger joint known worldwide for hearty and creative burgers, open 8am to late.
NZD20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relaxing afternoon at Onsen Hot Pools

Private hot pools with stunning valley views; book in advance, open until 10pm.
NZD80, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Bunker

Intimate restaurant serving seasonal New Zealand dishes with good wines, open until 9:30pm.
NZD65, 1h30m
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Day 11: Travel to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Flight back to Auckland

Morning flight from Queenstown to Auckland, taking approx 2 hours.
NZD100, 2h0m

10:30am

Check-in and brunch at Orphans Kitchen

Trendy restaurant known for fresh and inventive dishes in hip Britomart district.
NZD30, 1h0m

12:00pm

Auckland Art Gallery

Explore New Zealand’s largest art collection focusing on local and international works. Open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Coffee & stroll on Queen Street

Explore shops and cafés on Auckland’s main shopping street.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Cassia

Modern Indian cuisine with creative twists, open till 10pm.
NZD65, 1h30m
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Day 12: Island Day Trip

Waiheke Island, New Zealand on July 17, 2025

8:30am

Ferry to Waiheke Island

Budget-friendly ferry from Auckland to Waiheke (35 minutes), famous for vineyards and beaches.
NZD25, 0h35m

9:15am

Waiheke Vineyards Tour

Visit top local vineyards with tastings, tours run regularly all day.
NZD50, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Cable Bay Vineyards Restaurant

Enjoy gourmet meals with stunning views overlooking the ocean and vineyards.
NZD60, 1h30m

3:30pm

Beach Time at Oneroa

Relax on the beautiful sandy beach and wander the village boutiques.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Return Ferry to Auckland

Evening ferry back to Auckland, allowing time to rest for next day.
NZD25, 0h35m

7:30pm

Dinner at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Popular downtown spot for fresh seafood and casual atmosphere, open until 10pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 13: Relax & Local Sights

Auckland, New Zealand on July 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bestie Cafe

Artisan coffee and brunch with a cozy vibe, opens at 7am.
NZD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Climb Sky Tower

Get spectacular 360 degree views of Auckland from the tallest free-standing structure, open 9am–10pm.
NZD35, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Blue Breeze Inn

Tropical Polynesian-inspired menu with vibrant dishes and cocktails, open noon to 9pm.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Cornwall Park

Wide green spaces and peaceful walking trails in the city, perfect for afternoon relaxing.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Explore Ponsonby Road

Trendy neighborhood with boutiques, galleries, and several eateries.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Prego

Classic Italian and Mediterranean food in a lively atmosphere on Ponsonby Rd.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 14: Departure Day

Auckland, New Zealand on July 19, 2025

7:00am

Final Breakfast at Best Ugly Bagels

Grab a quick, famous bagel with tasty fillings before heading home.
NZD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Auckland Airport

Budget shuttle or bus transfer to airport for international flight back to Melbourne.
NZD15, 1h0m

11:00am

Flight from Auckland to Melbourne

Direct flight back to Melbourne concluding the New Zealand adventure.
NZD150, 4h30m
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