Adventure and Scenic Hikes in South New Zealand: 15-Day Self-Drive Itinerary for Couples

Day 1: Arrival and Relax

Queenstown, New Zealand on January 10, 2026

3:00PM

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive in Queenstown and pick up your rental car. Check in at a centrally located medium-budget hotel like Reavers Lodge for comfort and access.
NZD150, 1h0m

5:00PM

Lake Wakatipu Walk

Take an easy walk along the scenic lakefront to get a feel for the stunning surroundings and unwind after traveling.
Free, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Fergburger

Enjoy a famous gourmet burger at Fergburger, known for tasty, filling meals and local flavour. Open till 10pm.
NZD20, 1h0m
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Day 2: Adventure Activities

Queenstown, New Zealand on January 11, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Vudu Café

Start with healthy breakfast options including fresh coffee at Vudu Café, open from 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

9:00AM

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience thrilling jet boat rides through the Shotover River canyons, a must-do adventure with spectacular landscapes.
NZD130, 1h0m

11:00AM

Skyline Gondola & Luge

Enjoy panoramic views from the gondola and some luge rides for fun and excitement.
NZD60, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Have delicious hearty pizzas at this iconic historic restaurant in Queenstown. Open from 11:30am.
NZD30, 1h0m

3:00PM

Queenstown Gardens Walk

Relax with a scenic stroll in Queenstown Gardens, with beautiful views of the Remarkables mountain range.
Free, 1h0m

6:00PM

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Savour premium New Zealand meats and seafood in an elegant setting. Reservations recommended. Open till 9:30pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 3: Drive to Fiordland

Te Anau, New Zealand on January 12, 2026

7:00AM

Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

Enjoy fresh baked goods and coffee before the drive. Opens at 7am.
NZD18, 1h0m

8:00AM

Drive to Te Anau

Drive south from Queenstown to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The scenic drive is about 2 hours.
Fuel cost NZD30, 2h0m

11:00AM

Check-in and Explore Te Anau

Check into a cozy accommodation like Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park. Explore the lakefront walking tracks.
NZD100, 1h0m

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Casual dining with New Zealand pub-style dishes. Open from 11:30am.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00PM

Lake Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Take a guided boat tour inside glowworm caves, a magical nature experience. Tours run from 1pm to 4pm, lasts 2h15m.
NZD90, 2h15m

6:30PM

Dinner at Redcliff Cafe

Enjoy fresh local cuisine in a lovely atmosphere, known for salads and fish dishes. Open till 8:30pm.
NZD40, 1h0m
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Day 4: Milford Sound Adventure

Milford Sound, New Zealand on January 13, 2026

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Te Anau Bakery

Grab some quick breakfast pastries and coffee before heading out. Opens at 7am.
NZD12, 0h45m

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Travel along one of NZ's most scenic routes to Milford Sound (about 2 hours).
Fuel cost NZD25, 2h0m

10:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Take a 2-hour boat cruise to see spectacular fjords, waterfalls and wildlife like seals and dolphins. Cruises operate daily 9am-3pm.
NZD100, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Lodge Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch with views over the water.
NZD20, 1h0m

2:00PM

Short Hike - The Chasm Walk

A delightful 30-minute walk to see powerful waterfalls and unique rock formations, located near the Milford Sound visitor center.
Free, 0h45m

4:00PM

Drive back to Te Anau

Return drive to Te Anau for overnight stay.
Fuel cost NZD25, 2h0m

7:30PM

Dinner at Ivory Restaurant

Relax with fine dining options featuring local lamb and seafood. Open till 9pm.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 5: Drive to Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand on January 14, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Miles Better Pies

Start your morning with savory pies and coffee, available from 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:30AM

Drive to Wanaka

Travel north to Wanaka via Crown Range Road for breathtaking alpine views. Drive takes approx 3.5 hours.
Fuel cost NZD40, 3h30m

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at Big Fig

Check into a medium-budget hotel like Wanaka Hotel. Lunch at Big Fig, popular for fresh, healthy local dishes. Open till 3pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00PM

Mount Iron Track Hike

A moderate 2-3 hour hike offering panoramic views of Wanaka and surrounding mountains. Accessible year-round; carry water and sun protection.
Free, 3h0m

6:30PM

Dinner at Kika

Dinner with a menu inspired by global flavours, featuring NZ ingredients. Open till 9pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 6: Wanaka Adventures

Wanaka, New Zealand on January 15, 2026

7:00AM

Breakfast at Relishes Café

Enjoy fresh breakfast and excellent coffee at this café open from 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:30AM

Skydiving or Paragliding

For thrill-seekers, book a skydiving jump or tandem paragliding flight over Wanaka’s stunning landscape. Check weather; operations start around 8am.
NZD300 (skydiving) / NZD180(paragliding), 3h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House

Enjoy hearty Italian food in a cozy setting. Open from 11:30am.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00PM

Lake Wanaka Water Activities

Try kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Wanaka for relaxed adventure. Rentals available all day.
NZD50, 2h0m

5:00PM

Relax at Wanaka Hot Pools

Unwind in private hot pools surrounded by nature, open till 9pm. Booking recommended.
NZD80, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at Francesca's Italian Kitchen

End your day with authentic Italian cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Open till 9pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 7: Drive to Glacier Country

Fox Glacier, New Zealand on January 16, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Boot BBQ

Enjoy a quick and tasty breakfast at this café open from 7am.
NZD15, 0h45m

8:30AM

Drive to Fox Glacier

Drive west through Haast Pass National Park to Fox Glacier, a scenic 3.5-hour journey.
Fuel cost NZD50, 3h30m

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at The White Pub

Check into a medium-budget lodge like Holly Homestead. Have pub-style lunch at The White Pub open from 12pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:30PM

Lake Matheson Walk

Take an easy 1.5-hour walk around Lake Matheson for iconic reflections of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman.
Free, 1h30m

4:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

Soak in natural hot pools surrounded by rainforest. Open until dusk, check opening times in advance.
NZD25, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Landing

Treat yourself to fresh seafood and fine dining at The Landing restaurant. Open till 9pm.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: Fox Glacier Explore

Fox Glacier, New Zealand on January 17, 2026

7:00AM

Breakfast at Fat Dog Café

Enjoy fresh coffee and breakfast fare starting from 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:30AM

Guided Glacier Hike or Helicopter Tour

Book a guided glacier hike or scenic helicopter flight to explore Fox Glacier genuinely. Starts at 8am, weather permitting.
NZD350 (heli) or NZD180 (hike), 3h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Kokomo Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with impressive culinary flavours. Open from 12pm.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit West Coast Wildlife Centre

See rare kiwi birds and learn about conservation efforts. Open 9am-5pm daily.
NZD15, 1h0m

4:00PM

Walk Franz Josef Glacier Valley Track

If time permits, take a short shuttle and walk half an hour into the valley to view Franz Josef Glacier from afar.
NZD10 (shuttle), 2h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Last Kitchen

Finish with creative dishes featuring local ingredients. Open till 9pm, booking advised.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 9: Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand on January 18, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Snakebite Brewery and Cafe

Enjoy crafted coffee and breakfast in a casual spot open 7:30am.
NZD15, 1h0m

9:00AM

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Short 30-minute drive from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier town.
Fuel cost NZD10, 0h30m

10:00AM

Check-in and Explore Franz Josef Village

Check into your accommodation like the Franz Josef Oasis. Explore the village shops and galleries.
NZD110, 1h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Alice May

Savour hearty meals with a cosy atmosphere. Open 12pm-2:30pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

2:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Walk

Walk the Valley Walk to glacier viewpoints and the glacier terminal face, about 1.5-2 hours return.
Free, 2h0m

5:00PM

Relax at Glacier Hot Pools

End the day soaking in hot mineral pools surrounded by rainforest. Open till 9pm. Pre-booking recommended.
NZD28, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at King Tiger Eastern Eating House & Bar

Dinner with Asian fusion cuisine in a lively setting. Open till 9:30pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Drive to Hokitika

Hokitika, New Zealand on January 19, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Full of Beans

Hearty breakfast and great coffee. Opens at 7:30am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:30AM

Drive to Hokitika

Drive north along coast to Hokitika, about 1.5 hours. Scenic coastal views en route.
Fuel cost NZD20, 1h30m

10:00AM

Visit Hokitika Gorge

Take a 1-hour return walk to stunning turquoise Hokitika Gorge, a perfect spot for photos and nature appreciation.
Free, 1h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Fat Pigeon

Enjoy fresh sandwiches, soups, and vegetarian options. Open 10am-3pm.
NZD20, 1h0m

1:30PM

Explore Hokitika Town and Galleries

Browse artisan shops and jade galleries famous in Hokitika.
Free, 2h0m

4:00PM

Sunset at Hokitika Beach

Relax with a walk on the beach and watch the famous glow worm grove nearby after dusk.
Free, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Gorge Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy modern New Zealand cuisine featuring local seafood. Open till 9pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 11: Drive to Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand on January 20, 2026

7:00AM

Breakfast at Three Sisters Café

Start your day with a filling breakfast in Hokitika. Opens at 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:00AM

Drive to Arthur's Pass

Drive inland via scenic roads to Arthur's Pass National Park town, about 2.5 hours.
Fuel cost NZD25, 2h30m

11:00AM

Check-in and Walk Devils Punchbowl Waterfall

Check into accommodation like Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel. Then enjoy a 1.5 hour return walk to the spectacular waterfall.
NZD110 + Free walk, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bealey Hotel

Enjoy classic pub meals in a historic mountain hotel. Open from 12pm.
NZD25, 1h0m

3:00PM

Arthur's Pass Walking Track

Explore nearby walking trails like the Nature Trail for forest and birdlife experiences; 1-2 hours.
Free, 2h0m

5:00PM

Relax in Arthur's Pass Hot Pools

Soak in hot mineral pools to soothe muscles after hikes. Open till 8pm.
NZD15, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at The Wobbly Kea

Enjoy hearty local food and great atmosphere. Open till 9pm.
NZD40, 1h30m
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Day 12: Hiking and Nature

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand on January 21, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Coffee Culture

Begin with fresh coffee and breakfast. Opens 7:30am.
NZD15, 1h0m

8:30AM

Devils Nose Track or Avalanche Peak Hike

For adventure, try the Devils Nose Track (approx 2.5h) or the challenging Avalanche Peak hike (6-8h) if fit and prepared. Start early.
Free, 3h-6h

2:00PM

Lunch Picnic or at Local Café

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch outdoors or visit a local café if back in town early.
NZD20, 1h0m

4:00PM

Relax at the Hot Pools

End your hiking day with a refreshing soak in the hot pools. Open till 8pm.
NZD15, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at Wobbly Kea

Enjoy cozy comfort food at this friendly mountain pub.
NZD40, 1h30m
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Day 13: Drive to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on January 22, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at Arthur's Pass Bakery

Grab fresh pastries and coffee before leaving. Opens 7:30am.
NZD15, 0h45m

8:30AM

Drive to Christchurch

Drive east through Canterbury plains to Christchurch, around 2.5-3 hours.
Fuel cost NZD30, 3h0m

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Stay in a centrally located hotel like Rendezvous Hotel. Lunch with a modern Kiwi menu.
NZD35, 1h0m

2:00PM

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Walk through beautiful themed gardens and the Avon River pathways. Gardens open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 2h0m

5:00PM

Punting on the Avon River

Relax with a traditional punt ride along the river through the city gardens; operates until early evening.
NZD35, 0h45m

7:30PM

Dinner at Inati

Experience innovative New Zealand cuisine in a degustation format. Reservation necessary. Open till 9pm.
NZD90, 2h0m
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Day 14: Christchurch Explore

Christchurch, New Zealand on January 23, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Start your day with unique breakfast and coffee. Opens at 7am.
NZD15, 1h0m

9:00AM

TranzAlpine Train Day Trip (Optional)

If interested, book a return trip on world-famous scenic train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass (journey ~5 hours each way, full day required). Alternatively, explore local museums like Canterbury Museum.
NZD130 (Train) or Free for museums, Whole day option

12:00PM

Lunch at Little High Eatery

Casual food hall with multiple options; open all day.
NZD20, 1h0m

3:00PM

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

See native wildlife including kiwi birds and experience Maori cultural performances. Open 10am-5pm.
NZD35, 2h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at King of Snake

Enjoy Asian fusion cuisine in a vibrant setting. Open till 9:30pm.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 15: Departure

Christchurch, New Zealand on January 24, 2026

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel before checkout.
Included, 1h0m

8:30AM

Drive to Christchurch Airport

Return rental car and check in for your onward flight back home to Vizag.
Fuel cost NZD10, 30m
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