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10-Day Scenic Adventure from Christchurch to Wellington, New Zealand

Viewed by 101 travelers

Day 1: Explore Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Enjoy a creative breakfast at C1 Espresso, famous for their innovative dishes and fresh coffee. Open from 7am to 3pm.
NZD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through these beautiful, expansive gardens showcasing native and exotic plants. It’s a peaceful start and open all day.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Taste modern New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere just next to the Avon River. Open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Canterbury Museum

Explore New Zealand’s natural and human history in this well-curated museum. Open 10am - 5pm.
Free (donations appreciated), 1h30m

3:30pm

Christchurch Tramway

Take a scenic tram ride through the city’s key sights, an excellent way to see the central city landmarks. Runs until 7pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Inati

Enjoy a unique shared dining experience highlighting fresh local ingredients with innovative presentation. Dinner service from 6pm.
NZD75, 1h30m
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Day 2: Day Trip to Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Christchurch Farmers Market

Fuel up on fresh local produce and coffee at the lively farmers market open Saturdays from 8am to 1pm. (If day permits, else revert to C1 Espresso).
NZD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Akaroa

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive through rolling hills and spectacular views to the historic French settlement town of Akaroa.
Car rental or transport cost varies, 1h30m

10:30am

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise

Spot Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins on an exciting wildlife cruise. Cruises run from 10am to 4pm.
NZD85, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Little Bistro

Eat fresh seafood with lovely harbor views at this cozy and casual bistro open from 12pm.
NZD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Akaroa Museum and Historic Walk

Learn about Akaroa’s French colonial history and enjoy a self-guided heritage walk around town.
Museum NZD5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch to relax in the evening.
Included in morning transportation, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Dux Dine

Savor a mix of Italian and New Zealand dishes in a comfortable setting open from 5:30pm.
NZD40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Explore Southern Arts & Parks

Christchurch, New Zealand on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Black Betty Café

Enjoy artisanal coffee and a hearty breakfast in a vibrant atmosphere, open from 7:30am.
NZD18, 1h0m

9:30am

Port Hills hike

Take a scenic hike up to the Port Hills for panoramic city and ocean views. Accessible year-round.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Monday Room

Taste innovative New Zealand dishes and craft cocktails at this chic-tempered spot open 12pm-2:30pm.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit New Brighton Pier and Beach

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the colorful New Brighton Pier and beachfront, ideal for an afternoon unwind.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Re:START Container Mall

Browse local shops and pop-up stores in this creative container mall reflecting Christchurch’s resilience. Open until 6:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Relish contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients in a cozy venue open from 6pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to Kaikoura

Christchurch to Kaikoura, New Zealand on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Little High Eatery

Enjoy a variety of breakfast vendors under one roof, serving fresh and creative options. Open from 7am.
NZD20, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Kaikoura

Travel along the picturesque 2.5-hour coastal route to Kaikoura, famous for marine wildlife.
Transportation or rental car, 2h30m

11:00am

Check-in and settle at accommodation

Relax and prepare for afternoon activities in Kaikoura.
Varies, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Pier Hotel Restaurant

Feast on fresh seafood, especially crayfish, with panoramic sea views. Open 12pm to 3pm.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Kaikoura Whale Watching Tour

Join a 3-hour tour to see sperm whales, dolphins and seals. Tours run typically 10am-3pm; check local availability.
NZD150, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Nin’s Bin

Casual dining spot popular for good local dishes and relaxed vibe. Open from 5pm.
NZD35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Explore Kaikoura & Drive to Marlborough

Kaikoura to Marlborough, New Zealand on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hello Cafe Kaikoura

Start your day with great coffee and breakfast dishes in a welcoming cafe open 7am to 2pm.
NZD18, 1h0m

9:00am

Kaikoura Seal Colony Walk

Visit the Fur Seal Colony at Point Kean on a short scenic walk open all day, perfect for wildlife photography.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive to Marlborough (Blenheim)

Journey south for about 2 hours to enter Marlborough, New Zealand’s premier wine region.
Transportation cost varies, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hans Herzog Estate Winery

Enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with premium Marlborough wines at this beautiful estate. Open 11:30am to 3pm Wed-Sun.
NZD55, 1h30m

2:00pm

Wine Tasting Tour

Visit 2–3 wineries such as Cloudy Bay and Allan Scott, tasting world-class Sauvignon Blanc, open mid-afternoon until 5pm.
NZD30 for tastings, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gusto at The Grand

Dine in style at this contemporary restaurant offering local produce and great wine list, open from 6pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 6: Drive to Wellington

Marlborough to Wellington, New Zealand on June 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Salvage Yard Cafe

Grab a relaxed breakfast with quality coffee, open from 7am, before heading out.
NZD18, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Wellington via Picton Ferry

Drive to Picton (30 min), then board the Interislander ferry (about 3.5 hours) crossing Cook Strait to Wellington.
NZD65 for ferry ticket, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch in Wellington at Fidel’s Cafe

Enjoy a lively atmosphere and hearty meals on Cuba Street, open 7:30am to 9:30pm daily.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Visit New Zealand’s national museum showcasing history, art, and natural science. Open 10am–6pm.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Wellington Waterfront

Enjoy the vibrant waterfront with sculptures, cafes, and views of the harbor. Great to explore in the early evening.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in fine dining with contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a heritage building, open from 6pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 7: Wellington Cultural Day

Wellington, New Zealand on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Prefab Eatery

Start your day with fresh and vegan-friendly breakfast, open 7:30am to 3pm weekdays.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Garden

Ride the iconic cable car up to the Botanic Garden for stunning views and a leisurely walk. Cable Car operates 7am - 10pm.
NZD9.50 round trip, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood inspired by New Zealand’s coastline. Open 12pm-2:30pm Wed-Sun.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary

Explore this renowned urban eco-sanctuary to see native wildlife in natural habitat. Open 9am to 5pm.
NZD38, 2h30m

5:00pm

Explore Cuba Street

Discover quirky shops, street performers, and cafes on the city's famous bohemian street.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Matterhorn

Enjoy rustic Swiss and European cuisines in a lively Wellington spot open from 6pm.
NZD45, 1h30m
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Day 8: Day Trip to Kapiti Coast

Wellington to Kapiti Coast, New Zealand on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Midnight Espresso

Grab a quick artisan coffee and breakfast, open from 7am.
NZD15, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive/train to Kapiti Coast

Travel about 1 hour north to Kapiti Coast for nature adventures and beaches.
Transport or car rental, 1h0m

9:30am

Kapiti Island Nature Reserve Tour

Book a guided tour to this predator-free sanctuary for rare birds and native plants. Tours start in the morning and last about 4-5 hours.
NZD145 approx, 5h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Charlie's Kitchen

Relax with modern Kiwi lunch menu in a friendly atmosphere, open 11:30am - 3pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Wellington

Travel back afternoon and have some rest.
Included, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack & Bar

Enjoy flavorful seafood and drinks on vibrant Cuba Street open from 5pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Wellington to Kapiti Coast

Day 9: Wellington Museums & Gardens

Wellington, New Zealand on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Cafe

Start with hearty breakfast and great coffee in the heart of Cuba Street, open 7:30am to 9:30pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Wellington Museum

Explore the city's cultural history and stories, open 10am–5pm.
NZD15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Little Penang

Enjoy delicious Malaysian flavors in this popular restaurant open 11:30am-2:30pm and 5pm-9pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Wellington Botanic Garden

Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring beautifully maintained gardens and sculptures. Open all day.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Mount Victoria Lookout

Drive or hike up for panoramic views of Wellington city and harbor, great for sunset photos.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Logan Brown

Celebrate your trip with elegant dining at one of Wellington's finest restaurants, open from 6pm.
NZD80, 2h0m
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Day 10: Departure Day

Wellington, New Zealand on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the hotel or local café

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before departing, depending on your flight time.
Varies, 1h0m

9:00am

Last-minute sightseeing or shopping

Visit local souvenir shops or take a short walk along the waterfront if time allows.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Head to Wellington Airport

Allow ample time for travel and check-in for your departure flight.
Transportation cost varies, 1h0m
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