Comprehensive 8-Day Itinerary for Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand in August

Day 1: Auckland Arrival

Auckland, New Zealand on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bestie Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bestie, known for its excellent coffee and fresh, delicious brunch options, perfect for fuelling your Auckland exploration.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Sky Tower Auckland

Visit the iconic Sky Tower for fantastic panoramic views of Auckland and beyond. Open from 8am to 10pm, it’s a great way to get oriented with the city skyline.
NZD32, 1h

11:00am

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Explore New Zealand's history, Māori culture, and natural heritage. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm and provides a deep insight into the region’s rich past.
NZD25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Giapo

Enjoy innovative ice cream creations and light meals at Giapo, open from 11am to 7pm, an Auckland culinary gem that’s fun and delicious.
NZD25, 1h

2:30pm

Viaduct Harbour Walk

Take a relaxing stroll through Viaduct Harbour, enjoying waterfront views and vibrant boating life. This area is open all day and perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Dine at this popular waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, open until 10pm - a great spot to experience Auckland's dining scene.
NZD60, 2h

Day 2: Island Adventure

Auckland, New Zealand on August 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Odettes Eatery

Delight in artisanal pastries and excellent coffee at this artisan bakery, open from 7am, setting a perfect start for your island day.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Waiheke Island Ferry and Vineyard Tour

Catch the ferry (departs approx every hour) to Waiheke Island and explore its renowned vineyards and stunning beaches. Recommended wineries include Mudbrick and Cable Bay; tours run through the day.
NZD60, 6h

4:30pm

Return ferry to Auckland

Enjoy scenic views on the ferry back to Auckland, relaxing after a day of wine tasting and island exploration.
Included in ferry ticket, 40m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Grove Restaurant

Experience contemporary New Zealand cuisine at The Grove, noted for its fine dining and local ingredients, open till 9:30pm.
NZD70, 2h

Day 3: City Culture

Auckland, New Zealand on August 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy a New York-inspired breakfast with a Kiwi twist at Federal Delicatessen, open from 7am, ideal for energising before a culture-packed day.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Visit New Zealand's most extensive collection of national and international art, open 10am to 5pm, a must for art enthusiasts and culture seekers.
NZD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Savour casual dining with spectacular seafood and iconic New Zealand fare at Depot, open from 11:30am.
NZD35, 1h

1:30pm

Auckland Domain and Wintergardens

Walk through Auckland Domain's greenery and visit the historic Wintergardens, open from 7am to dusk, a refreshing afternoon outdoors.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at your accommodation

Take some rest before your journey to Wellington tomorrow, preparing for the next leg of your trip.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cassia

Indulge in elevated Indian cuisine with a modern twist at Cassia, open until 10pm, a highlight in Auckland's dining offerings.
NZD65, 2h

Day 4: Travel to Wellington

Auckland to Wellington, New Zealand on August 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Little & Friday

Enjoy great coffee and light breakfast bites at Little & Friday, open from 7am, a cosy start before travel.
NZD18, 1h

9:00am

Visit Auckland Botanic Gardens

Explore diverse plant collections open from 7am to 6pm before your afternoon departure; a peaceful nature break.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Breeze Inn

Have a delicious Pacific-inspired lunch at this vibrant eatery, open until 3pm, perfect for a flavourful midday meal.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Flight from Auckland to Wellington

Take a quick 1-hour flight to Wellington; multiple daily options available, book early for best prices.
NZD120, 1h

4:00pm

Check-in and relax in Wellington hotel

Settle into your hotel and unwind after your travel, preparing for exploring Wellington the following day.
Varies, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Dine at one of Wellington’s top restaurants, known for its fine local cuisine and elegant atmosphere, open until 10pm.
NZD75, 2h

Day 5: Wellington Sights

Wellington, New Zealand on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Cafe

Enjoy a bustling café vibe with hearty breakfasts and excellent coffee, open from 7am, a local favourite in Cuba Street.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Visit New Zealand’s national museum, open 10am to 6pm, showcasing rich history, culture, and art – must-see in Wellington.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chameleon Restaurant

Enjoy hearty Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Chameleon, open 12pm to 3pm, known for its warm hospitality.
NZD40, 1h

2:00pm

Botanical Gardens Cable Car and Walk

Ride the historic cable car to the Botanic Gardens, open 7am to 7pm, then enjoy scenic walks and views over Wellington Harbour.
NZD9, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Cuba Street

Walk through Wellington’s eclectic shopping and dining precinct, full of unique boutiques and street art – open all day.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Taste fresh seafood with a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere at Ortega, open until 10pm – book ahead for weekend evenings.
NZD65, 2h

Day 6: Wellington Outdoors

Wellington, New Zealand on August 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Prefab

Start with excellent coffee and breakfast dishes at Prefab, open from 7am, popular for its fresh and tasty options.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Discover native wildlife in this incredible urban ecosanctuary, open 9am to 5pm, a unique conservation experience in Wellington.
NZD22, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Larder

Enjoy seasonal local produce at The Larder, open 12pm to 3pm, offering fresh, vibrant meals in a cosy setting.
NZD35, 1h

2:00pm

Oriental Bay Walk and Beach

Relax or stroll along Oriental Bay, Wellington’s favourite inner-city beach, open all day, perfect for an afternoon break.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Rest and refresh at your accommodation before the evening activities.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Charley Noble

Savour seasonal wood-fired dishes at Charley Noble, open until 10pm, one of Wellington’s top dining options for meat and seafood lovers.
NZD70, 2h

Day 7: Wellington Arts & History

Wellington, New Zealand on August 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Midnight Baker

Enjoy fresh baked goods and great coffee at The Midnight Baker, open from 7am, a local bakery with artisanal delights.
NZD18, 1h

9:30am

Wellington Cable Car Museum and Kelburn Lookout

Explore the history of the Wellington Cable Car, open 10am to 4pm, then enjoy breathtaking views from Kelburn Lookout.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Logan Brown (lunch menu)

Relish refined cuisine in a historic bank building, open 12pm to 2:30pm, perfect for an elegant midday meal.
NZD60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit the Museum of Wellington City & Sea

Learn about Wellington's maritime history and local stories in this engaging museum, open 10am to 5pm.
NZD15, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Waterfront and Queens Wharf

Enjoy a scenic walk around Wellington’s waterfront, with numerous cafes and bars to explore before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Havana Bar

End the day with vibrant Cuban flavours and cocktails in this stylish bar and restaurant, open till late.
NZD50, 2h

Day 8: Departure Day

Wellington, New Zealand on August 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ode Café

Have a relaxed breakfast with great coffee and wholesome food at Ode Café, open from 7am, ideal for a last Wellington meal.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Last minute shopping or walks

Use remaining time for final souvenirs or a stroll in nearby parks such as Frank Kitts Park before your onward journey.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Check-out and transfer to Wellington Airport

Prepare for your departure, ensuring timely arrival at the airport for your flight.
Varies, 1h