14-Day New Zealand Historical, Culinary and Nightlife Adventure for Couples

Day 1: Arrival & Auckland exploration

Auckland, New Zealand on November 1, 2025

9:00am

Arrival in Auckland - Transport to accommodation

Arrive at Auckland Airport and take a taxi or shuttle to your mid-range hotel in central Auckland, such as the Grand Millennium Auckland, offering comfortable amenities and a convenient location.
NZD50, 1h

11:00am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand’s rich history, including Maori and Pacific Island exhibits in this iconic museum set in Auckland Domain. A great introduction to the country’s cultural heritage.
NZD28, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Enjoy locally sourced seafood and New Zealand lamb in a casual hip setting. Depicting local cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
NZD40, 1h

3:00pm

Wynyard Quarter Stroll & Hidden Gems

Discover hidden gems in this revitalized waterfront area with boutique shops, art installations, and scenic views.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Grove

Savor fine contemporary New Zealand cuisine with fantastic wine pairings in an intimate ambiance perfect for couples.
NZD75, 2h

8:30pm

Nightlife at Ostend Secret Bar

Cap off the night at this hidden speakeasy-style bar with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy setting, ideal for couples.
NZD20, 2h

Day 2: Historical Sites & Culinary

Auckland, New Zealand on November 2, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast inspired by New York deli classics, loved for its local twist on comfort food.
NZD25, 1h

10:30am

Visit Rangitoto Island

Take a ferry (30 min) to this volcanic island for hiking and panoramic views of Auckland. An untouched natural wonder and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
NZD34 (ferry), 4h

3:00pm

Light Late Lunch at The Lumsden Freehouse

Enjoy modern bistro-style dishes and craft beers in this neighborhood pub with a laid-back vibe.
NZD35, 1.5h

5:00pm

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Discover New Zealand’s largest art collection with a mix of contemporary and historical works in a beautifully restored heritage building.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cassia

Dine on innovative Indian fusion cuisine in an elegant, intimate setting combining local produce with bold flavors.
NZD80, 2h

10:00pm

Nightlife: Explore Viaduct Harbour Bars

Enjoy late-night drinks at vibrant bars along the waterfront, perfect for couples looking to soak in the lively nightlife atmosphere.
NZD30, 2h

Day 3: Travel to Rotorua & Maori Culture

Auckland to Rotorua, New Zealand on November 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before traveling to Rotorua.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive or bus to Rotorua

Travel approximately 3 hours south to Rotorua by rental car or InterCity bus, enjoying scenic views en route.
NZD60 (bus) / Rental car varies, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Eat Streat

Sample local and international cuisine in Rotorua's lively dining precinct, perfect for relaxed meals after your trip.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Rotorua Museum - Government Gardens

Explore local history focusing on Maori culture, geothermal wonders, and the area's colonial past in the museum's heritage building.
NZD25, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural hot mineral pools with views of Lake Rotorua, an essential romantic experience for couples.
NZD45, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner and Maori Cultural Experience at Tamaki Maori Village

Enjoy a traditional Hangi feast and performance by Maori entertainers, immersing yourselves in authentic local culture in an intimate setting.
NZD110, 3h

Day 4: Geothermal Parks & Hidden Gems

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Capers Epicurean

Start your day with fresh coffee and artisan pastries at this beloved local favorite café.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Explore stunning geothermal features including colorful pools, geysers, and bubbling mud, one of New Zealand’s most surreal landscapes.
NZD35, 2.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Atticus Finch

Relax and enjoy small plates and fresh dishes inspired by local ingredients in a stylish and casual setting.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Hidden gem visit: Blue Lake (Tikitere)

A tranquil spot perfect for romantic walks, the Blue Lake is a lesser-known gem with beautiful turquoise waters surrounded by native forest.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Return to hotel, rest

Take some downtime to freshen up and relax before evening activities.
Included, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Stratosfare Restaurant

Dine at Skyline Rotorua’s top-level restaurant with panoramic views of the city and surrounding lakes, offering local seasonal menu.
NZD65, 2h

9:00pm

Nightlife: Explore local bars in Rotorua CBD

Enjoy craft beers and cocktails at popular local bars such as Joe’s Garage or Brew Moon, known for friendly atmosphere.
NZD30, 2h

Day 5: Travel to Wellington & City Discovery

Rotorua to Wellington, New Zealand on November 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before heading south to Wellington.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight from Rotorua to Wellington

Take a short flight (about 1 hour) to Wellington to maximize time exploring the capital city.
NZD120, 1h

10:00am

Check-in at accommodation

Stay centrally in Wellington at a mid-range hotel such as the Rydges Wellington, close to theatres, restaurants, and historic sites.
NZD150 per night, 1h

11:00am

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Discover New Zealand’s national museum featuring history, art, and cultural exhibitions. Entry is free and engaging for history enthusiasts.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Fidel’s Café

Experience Wellington’s eclectic café culture with Latin-American inspired dishes in a quirky, colorful setting.
NZD30, 1h

3:00pm

Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Gardens

Ride the historic cable car up to the Botanic Gardens for great views, beautiful walking paths, and couples’ photo ops.
NZD12 (round trip), 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Enjoy a refined dining experience with a focus on New Zealand ingredients in a heritage building with romantic ambiance.
NZD90, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: Cuba Street

Explore a lively nightlife area packed with bars, live music venues, and a bohemian atmosphere great for couples.
NZD40, 2h

Day 6: Wellington Museums & Hidden Gems

Wellington, New Zealand on November 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Prefab Eatery

Kick start your day with specialty coffee and creative breakfast dishes in this trendy café.
NZD25, 1h

10:00am

Museum of Wellington City & Sea

Dive into Wellington’s maritime and local history featuring engaging exhibitions and interactive displays.
NZD15, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Savor fresh seafood with a creative twist in a cozy setting, a well-loved spot by locals.
NZD50, 1h

1:30pm

Hidden Gem: Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Visit this renowned wildlife sanctuary dedicated to restoring New Zealand’s native flora and fauna in an urban setting, perfect for nature-loving couples.
NZD28, 3h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Unwind before dinner and evening activities.
Included, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Charley Noble

Dine on wood-fired cuisine and enjoy the cozy atmosphere by the Wellington waterfront.
NZD70, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: Meow Bar

Finish the night dancing or enjoying cocktails in one of Wellington’s beloved underground bars, an intimate spot for couples.
NZD20, 2h

Day 7: Travel to Queenstown

Wellington to Queenstown, New Zealand on November 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before flying to Queenstown.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight Wellington to Queenstown

Fly approximately 2 hours to the adventure capital of New Zealand with stunning scenery.
NZD150, 2h

11:00am

Check-in at accommodation

Stay at a centrally located hotel like the SO/ Queenstown, blending luxury with a mid-range price and ideal for couples.
NZD200 per night, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fergburger

Taste the iconic Queenstown gourmet burger, a must-try local favorite known worldwide.
NZD20, 1h

1:30pm

Historic Arrowtown visit

Take a 20-minute drive to the charming gold-mining town of Arrowtown, full of heritage buildings and museums.
NZD10 (museum entry), 3h

5:00pm

Return to Queenstown and rest

Relax at your hotel or stroll along the lakefront.
Included, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Amisfield Bistro

Savor seasonal New Zealand cuisine in a rustic winery bistro, a romantic dining experience just outside Queenstown.
NZD85, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: The Bunker

Enjoy craft cocktails and live music in this intimate bar, ideal for couples wanting a sophisticated night out.
NZD25, 2h

Day 8: Adventure & Scenic Views

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder

Enjoy locally roasted coffee and creative breakfast dishes in a lively atmosphere.
NZD25, 1h

9:00am

Skyline Queenstown Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride for spectacular views over the town and Lake Wakatipu, followed by a visit to the viewing platform and optional luge ride.
NZD44, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant atop Skyline

Dine on local cuisine with breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range, perfect for a romantic afternoon meal.
NZD60, 1.5h

1:30pm

Hidden gem: Queenstown Gardens walk

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through beautifully maintained gardens with stunning lake and mountain views.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at hotel or lakeside café

Take a break and enjoy the surroundings before dinner.
Included, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rata

Taste modern New Zealand cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett in a stylish, intimate setting.
NZD90, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: Drift Bar

Experience artisan cocktails and lively vibe in this trendy Queenstown bar favored by locals and visitors.
NZD30, 2h

Day 9: Milford Sound Day Trip

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 9, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Grab a quick breakfast before your full-day Milford Sound tour.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise

Take a scenic coach ride through Fiordland National Park and enjoy a 2-hour cruise on Milford Sound to see waterfalls, wildlife, and stunning fjordscapes.
NZD210, 10h

6:00pm

Return to Queenstown and rest

Relax after a long day of exploring New Zealand’s natural wonder.
Included, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Enjoy premium steaks and New Zealand specialties in an elegant setting ideal for couples celebrating their adventure.
NZD90, 2h

Day 10: Explore More Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Joe’s Garage

Casual café with hearty breakfasts and excellent coffee to start your day.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Historic Kawarau Bridge

Visit the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump and enjoy peaceful riverside walks with history and adrenaline mixed in.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Artisan Food Store Red Rock

Enjoy a casual lunch with a focus on fresh, local produce and great coffee.
NZD35, 1h

1:30pm

Hidden gem: Glenorchy day trip

Drive 45 mins to this charming lakeside town known for pristine nature, perfect for couples wanting tranquility and stunning photo opportunities.
Free, 4h

6:00pm

Return to Queenstown and rest

Freshen up and relax back at your hotel.
Included, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jervois Steak House

Enjoy delicious steaks and a lively atmosphere, a great way to experience Queenstown’s culinary scene together.
NZD85, 2h

Day 11: Travel to Dunedin

Queenstown to Dunedin, New Zealand on November 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with breakfast before traveling to Dunedin in the South Island.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive or bus to Dunedin

Travel roughly 4.5 hours east to Dunedin, noted for its Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture.
NZD75 (bus) / Rental car varies, 4.5h

1:00pm

Check-in accommodation & lunch at Vogel St Kitchen

Mid-range boutique accommodation like The Victoria Hotel is perfect. Enjoy contemporary Kiwi cuisine for lunch at Vogel St Kitchen nearby.
NZD120 for hotel, NZD40 for lunch, 1.5h

3:00pm

Otago Museum

Explore natural history and Maori exhibits in this centrally located museum housed in a classic building.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Plato

A cozy restaurant known for locally sourced seafood and home-style cooking, perfect for couples.
NZD60, 2h

8:30pm

Nightlife: Octagon Bars

Experience Dunedin’s lively student nightlife in the Octagon, with a variety of bars to explore.
NZD25, 2h

Day 12: Dunedin History & Wildlife

Dunedin, New Zealand on November 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dawn Chorus

Enjoy a fresh breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere with excellent coffee options.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Larnach Castle Tour

Visit New Zealand’s only castle featuring beautiful gardens and history-rich interiors.
NZD43, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Well Tavern

Craft beer tavern with great pub grub in a warm historic setting.
NZD40, 1h

2:30pm

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Discover albatross colonies, yellow-eyed penguins, and seals on a guided tour of the scenic peninsula.
NZD120, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at No. 7 Balmac

Cozy spot offering refined dishes focusing on local produce and innovative cooking techniques.
NZD65, 2h

Day 13: Travel to Christchurch

Dunedin to Christchurch, New Zealand on November 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive or bus to Christchurch

Travel approximately 5 hours north to Christchurch, gateway to the South Island’s natural beauty and history.
NZD80 (bus) / Rental car varies, 5h

2:00pm

Check-in at hotel and lunch at Curator's House Café

Stay at a mid-range hotel like the Rydges Latimer Christchurch. Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes at Curator’s House nearby.
NZD150 hotel, NZD40 lunch, 1.5h

3:30pm

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Wander through extensive gardens featuring native and exotic plants, an ideal romantic afternoon walk.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at 27 Steps

Enjoy fresh New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed, intimate urban setting, perfect for couples.
NZD70, 2h

8:30pm

Nightlife: The Twisted Hop

Sample craft beers at this popular local brewery with a lively atmosphere.
NZD25, 2h

Day 14: Christchurch History & Departure

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your final day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Canterbury Museum

Explore extensive exhibits ranging from natural history to Maori culture and Antarctic exploration, showcasing the region’s heritage.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dux Dine

A casual eatery famous for seafood and local delicacies, perfect for a midday meal.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Punting on the Avon River

Enjoy a romantic gondola-style punting boat ride on Christchurch’s Avon River, a serene way to take in the city sights one last time.
NZD45, 1h

4:00pm

Return to hotel & pack

Prepare for departure the next day with an evening at leisure.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at Inati

Experience a unique multi-course dinner focused on sharing and local ingredients, a perfect end to your New Zealand trip.
NZD100, 3h