travel itinerary new zealand

The Most EPIC 1, 2 or 3 Week New Zealand Itinerary (2024)

• Last Updated: April 10, 2024

Read on the learn about the most epic New Zealand itinerary you can plan!

Welcome to one of the world’s most stunning destinations. New Zealand is, quite justifiably, top of many people’s travel bucket list. 

The home of adrenaline sports, breathtaking scenery and the Lord of the Rings, New Zealand has plenty to keep you entertained for months. 

However many of us sadly don’t have months available, so I’ve put together these 1 week, 2-week and 3-week New Zealand itineraries.

Plus there are a few extra places if you’re lucky enough to have a little longer. 

I’ve varied each New Zealand itinerary so that you can potentially chop and change or merge them together, giving you plenty of options to choose from. 

Table of Contents

Getting To and From New Zealand

Getting around new zealand, day 1 and 2 – auckland , day 3 and 4 – bay of islands, day 5 – waitomo caves, day 6 – tongariro national park, day 7 – hobbiton , day 1- akaroa and the banks peninsula, day 2 – okains beach, the banks peninsula and driving to mount cook, day 3 – mount cook and drive to wanaka, day 4 – hiking around lake wanaka , day 5 – adrenaline sports around lake wanaka, day 6 – milford sound, day 7 – queenstown, day 1 and 2  – auckland, day 3 – mount maunganui, day 4 – rotorua and drive to the tongariro national park, day 5 – tongariro national park , day 6 – wellington, day 7 – crossing the cook strait and driving to the abel tasman national park. , day 8 – hiking in the abel tasman national park , day 9 – south islands west coast – kaiteriteri to hokitika, day 10 – south island’s west coast – hokitika to franz josef or fox glacier and on to queenstown, day 11 and 12 – queenstown, day 13 – mount cook national park, day 14 – christchurch, day 1 – auckland , day 2 – waitomo , day 3 – tongariro national park, day 4 – the forgotten world highway, day 5 – wellington , day 6 – crossing the cook strait to picton and driving to kaikoura, day 7 – whale watching and dolphin swimming in kaikoura, day 8 and 9 – akaroa, the banks peninsula and driving to mount cook., day 10 – hiking around mount cook, day 11 and 12 – wanaka, day 13 and 14 – queenstown , day 15 and 16 – doubtful sound , day 17 and 18 – catlins national park , day 19 and 20 – dunedin and the otago peninsula , day 21 – christchurch , north island , south island , new zealand itinerary transport tips.

Getting around New Zealand with a rental car is fairly easy, as long as you’re confident with self-driving.

Public transport isn’t a great option, and you’ll end up missing out on the many great spots to visit along the way.

Alternatively, you can look at signing up for a tour. We recommend Haka Tours .

For the vast majority of travellers, New Zealand is a fair distance away. The country has 5 main international airports, Auckland and Wellington on the North Island and Christchurch, Queenstown, and Dunedin on the South Island. 

We have more information on our dedicated New Zealand page here .

This means you don’t necessarily need to follow circular itineraries.

However, this will bring additional one-way charges for vehicle hire, although these are usually cheaper outside of the summer months. 

All of these examples will require you to hire a rental car or a campervan to get around.

Spaceship does the best, affordable campervans in New Zealand.

New Zealand is not really a country you can visit solely through public transport.

Roads are generally in excellent condition although do watch out for weather warnings and other such notifications from the government in the winter months especially. 

Any New Zealand road trip itinerary is likely to involve a fairly large amount of driving.

It is also very likely that journey times will be longer than in your home countries due to New Zealand’s terrain.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

7 Day New Zealand North Island Itinerary (Into and out of Auckland)

This 7-day New Zealand itinerary around the North Island of New Zealand is a circular loop flying in and out of Auckland .

This means you won’t have to pay a one-way charge when hiring a set of wheels.

Our first New Zealand itinerary begins in Auckland, the City of Sails. As New Zealand’s largest city there are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained for a couple of days.

Spend your first day in the city itself. Maybe head up to the Sky Tower , the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, and check out the views. 

The city is also home to the excellent Auckland Museum and Auckland Art Gallery which are well worth checking out.

Spend your evening wining and dining in the city’s slick restaurants and bars.

On your second day take the chance to explore Auckland’s stunning scenery.

Whether you fancy a bit of beach bumming, island hopping, or hiking Auckland has it all. 

Pick up your wheels and head out early to this gorgeous area of New Zealand’s North Island.

From Auckland, it’s roughly 3-4 hours to the town of Paihia which along with Russell forms the heart of the Bay of Islands. 

Spend your first here day exploring Russell and Paihia, home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds .

Alternatively, you could check one of the many hiking trails in the area.

However, if wildlife is your thing then head out on one of the wildlife cruises that depart from Paihia. 

The next day begins the drive down to Waitomo.

However, make sure you drive back via the Tutukaka Coast . This deserted expanse of stunning coastline is home to plenty of gorgeous beaches and short coastal walks.

Waitomo is one of New Zealand’s best destinations for adrenaline activities. Get ready to squeeze, swim, slide and climb your way through some seriously awesome caves. 

There are numerous trips, tours, and trails ranging from the more sedate, where you can check out the glow worms all the way up to epic caving and black water rafting trips. 

The highlight is probably the Lost World Cave which starts with a 100-metre abseil into the cave. Trust me, it’s awesome! This will be an awesome addition to your New Zealand itinerary.

This stunning national park is home to what some describe as the best one day walk in the world; the Tongariro Crossing.

You’re best off staying in the village of Whakapapa as this is closest to the crossing as well as a number of other trails.

Of these other trails, the pick of the bunch is the short, but stunning ridge walk and the longer Taranaki falls trail.

Get ready for sore feet and spectacular views.

On your way back to Auckland pay a visit to Hobbiton . It is here that numerous scenes for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies were filmed.

The movie set is built amongst the rolling hills of Alexander farm in Waikato. 

If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings or the Hobbit then this is a must-visit.  

Check out these awesome Hobbiton tours on Get Your Guide .

There are plenty of other great things to do on North Island New Zealand so give yourself more time if you can before moving on to the South Island.

7-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (into Christchurch, out of Queenstown)

This 7 Day South Island New Zealand road trip itinerary takes in some of the South Islands’ most stunning destinations.

Pick up your wheels from Christchurch Airport and make a beeline for Akaroa , the main town on the Banks Peninsula. This will be the first stop on your New Zealand road trip itinerary for the South Island.

The drive from Christchurch is absolutely spectacular. There are amazing views over Akaroa and large swathes of the Banks Peninsula from the Hilltop , an excellent pub/restaurant.

Keep your fingers crossed for a blue sky day!

You could spend the rest of the day hiking around Akaroa, exploring the town itself or checking out one of the wildlife cruises.

Blackcat cruises run excellent dolphin-watching and swimming trips from the harbour. Be sure to book early in the summer months . 

Get up bright and early and head over to Okains Beach on the eastern end of the Banks Peninsula. This is an epic place to visit on a New Zealand road trip itinerary.

This deserted beach is an absolute gem with spectacular views, both there and on the drive over. The waves are a decent size, although do be aware of potential rip currents and don’t go out of your depth. 

You can spend the rest of the day taking on one of the area’s many hiking trails.

However, you may want to begin the stunning drive to Mount Cook . On the way make sure you check out Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepard before carrying on the Lake Pukaki.

At Lake Pukuai expect stunning views of Mount Cook (on a clear day only I’m afraid) as well as some amazing salmon sashimi from the Mount Cook Alpine Salmon shop . 

Spend the night in Mount Cook village. If you’re in a campervan or have a tent stay at the White Horse Hill campground .

It does get busy in the summer months so don’t get here too late. The facilities are basic, but the views are amazing. 

Pull on your hiking boots and get ready for some breathtaking alpine scenery on your New Zealand road trip itinerary.

READ MORE: Here’s our complete guide to the best hikes in New Zealand !

The most popular hike is the Hooker Valley , and with good reason.

The views en route and at the trail’s end on the edges of Hooker Lake are breathtaking. Expect the hike to be around 3 hours return.  

Check out the Red Tarns Track which is a solid stair climb. Your knees will hate you but the view is worth it.

Additionally, the Kea Point Track is well worth checking out especially as it’s only one hour from the White Horse Hill campsite.

Over the other side of the National Park, you will find the Tasman Glacier and Blue Lakes walk , which gives amazing views of the Tasman Glacier and on a clear day, Mount Cook. 

Hop into your wheels and begin the 200km journey to the gorgeous town of Wanaka.

Welcome to what many would describe as their favourite place in New Zealand. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit twice and each time it’s taken my breath away. 

Naturally, as you would expect there are hiking trails galore around here, so pull on your boots and slap on the sunscreen. 

Probably the most well-known is the hike up to Roys Peak . It’s a 16km return hike, 8km up and 8km down with no shade and a lot of switchbacks.

However, the views at the top are sublime.

End the day with a BBQ on the edge of Lake Wanaka, utilising one of the many free BBQs along the lake’s edge.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these incredible things to do in Wanaka to your itinerary!

As spectacularly beautiful as Lake Wanaka is, it also has its fair share of adrenaline sports to get your hearts racing. 

Try your hand at one of New Zealand’s newest adrenaline sports – canyoning.

Start at the top of a canyon and work your way down by any means necessary. Deep Canyon is the company to go with, offering some amazing trips. 

If that’s not your thing but you still want to set your heart pounding then head over to Sky Dive Wanaka who are more than happy to throw you out of a plane. 

Get ready for a long drive! You’ll need an early start from Wanaka to get to Milford Sound on your New Zealand road trip. But Milford Sound is very doable as a day trip.

You have two options. Book a tour in Queenstown that will handle the travel to Milford Sound and the cruise itself.

Or drive to Milford Sound and book a cruise yourself.

Either way, you will need to book in advance. 

Milford Sound is spectacular and is unsurprisingly one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand. Get ready to have your breath taken away. 

After an epic day in Milford Sound, drive back up to Queenstown that night.

For a real unique experience (if you have the extra day up your sleeve), check out the overnight boat trip with Real Journeys in Milford Sound .

Spend the final day of your New Zealand road trip in the self-proclaimed adrenaline capital of the world.

If you’ve got the stomach and the money then do one of the many Bungy jumps or the terrifying canyon swing, which is absolutely amazing. 

However, if the pennies are running low the Skyline Luge is an excellent budget option that offers breathtaking views over Queenstown and the Remarkable’s.

Make sure you visit Fergburger to chow down on one of their legendary meat patties. A fantastic way to sign off. 

READ MORE: More great ideas about what to do in Queenstown.

2-Week New Zealand Trip (into Auckland and out of Christchurch)

This 2-week itinerary takes in some of the best moments of the North and South Island’s 1-week itineraries but adds in a few new destinations as well. 

It follows a common route of flying into Auckland and out of Christchurch.

Do be aware that you will be charged one-way fees on any cars or camper vans you rent. You can also do this route in reverse if you wish.  

Spend your first day getting acclimatized and checking out Auckland’s, museum’s galleries and attractions. 

On your second day, get out and explore some of the awesome hikes and natural scenery surrounding the city, especially in and around the Haruki Gulf .

This gorgeous coastal town is one of New Zealand’s most popular domestic tourist destinations.

The beaches here are gorgeous however the real highlight is the Mauao , Mount Manganui’s spectacular walking track.

The views from the top are absolutely spectacular!

Welcome to New Zealand’s geothermal capital. Head over to Te Whakarewarewa to check various interesting sights in this thermal reserve.

It’s home to over 500 springs as well as the famous geyser Te Puia . 

If you want to get to know some of New Zealand’s birds then head over to the city’s Kiwi Sanctuary when you can see these beautiful, but endangered birds. 

Begin driving over to Tongirio Park late in the afternoon and in the summer months you may be able to time this right to catch the sun setting along Lake Taupo which is absolutely spectacular.

If you want to stay at the campsite in Whakapapa be sure to book ahead, especially in the summer months.

READ MORE: Check out some of the best things to do in Rotorua .

Pull on those hiking boots and get ready to take a lot of pictures.

We’ve already mentioned some of the top hikes in the region, but an interesting fact is that Mount Ngauruhoe , one of the 3 mountains that make up the park, is Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings films.  

New Zealand’s wet and windy capital packs quite a punch. There is a lot to do here, so sadly you will be unable to pack everything into one day. 

If you have time for one thing in Wellington make sure you head to the incredible Te Papa museums situated on the city’s waterfront.

This excellent museum has numerous excellent exhibitions focusing on New Zealand’s history and geography. 

If you fancy getting outside, head up to Mount Victoria for spectacular views over the city. 

Spend the evening eating around Hannahs Lane , followed by a beer or two on Cuba Street .

READ MORE: Check out our guide on what to do in Wellington .

Get up bright and early to board the ferry to cross the Cook Strait to the port of Picton . The journey over is spectacular, especially the final section. 

Once off the ferry, hot foot it over to Kaiteriteri , one of the final towns before the Abel Tasman National Park.

On the way, find some time to stop in the pretty town of Nelson. We have an article on things to do in Nelson if you have more time. 

Kaiteriteri is a tiny town that is the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. There’s not much going on here, but there are a couple of decent eateries and nice beaches. 

The full Abel Tasman Coastal Track takes anything between 3 and 5 days.

However, there are plenty of excellent one-day hikes and kayaking trips for those that don’t have quite so much time.

One particularly excellent day hike starts at Bark Bay and then heads south finishing at Anchorage Bay .

This 12km hike takes you through some of the park’s most spectacular scenery. You can also extend this trail by detouring to visit Cascade Falls and the gorgeous Cleopatra Pools .

To get out here you will need to have a sea taxi booked to and from your start and endpoints.

You can privately charter taxis, although it will be much more expensive. There are also options to combine a half-day cruise with a hike as well. 

However, if you fancy getting out onto the water then take the opportunity to take a kayaking or combined kayaking and hiking trip.

We have an awesome article on kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park for you to check out.  

Get a good night’s sleep in Kaiteriteri as there are two epic days of driving coming up!

Get up bright and early and head towards one of New Zealand’s most stunning areas: the South Island’s West Coast. 

Expect desolate coastal roads, windswept beaches, and alpine scenery as you get closer to the Southern Alps of New Zealand. 

From Kaiteriteri you will come through the Buller Gorge with plenty of great scenery and some lovely little towns.

You’ll continue along the coast to Westport and then head south hugging the ocean.

Make sure you check out the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki , the numerous deserted beaches and spectacular viewpoints.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic or a cheeky beer. 

End your day by getting to the quaint town of Hokitika and visiting its rather lovely gorge.

There are numerous awesome campsites in this area, however, like many along the west coast water-saving measures are frequently implemented. 

Head south towards either Franz Josef or Fox Glaciers. At both, there are decent short hikes where you can see the glaciers up close .

However, you can also see the amount they have receded in recent years. As a result, glacier hikes, unless you’ve got deep pockets for a heli hike, are no longer an option. 

That being said the valley walks to viewpoints at both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers offer some spectacular views, along with a stark reminder about the challenges our planet faces. 

If you fancy something a little more high octane then head to Skydive Franz where you can throw yourself out of a plane with epic views of both the ocean and the Southern Alps. 

Continue on through the Haast pass to Lake Wanaka. 

We’ve already mentioned Queenstown in the previous itinerary, so you already know there is hiking, adrenaline sports or just lazing by the lake on offer!

You could also do a day trip to nearby Arrowtown , a gorgeous little town nestled in the hills between Queenstown and Wanaka.

Make sure you pick up a pie here, which is a classic New Zealand snack. 

From Wanaka head to Mount Cook National Park. The drive up Lake Pukaki is absolutely breathtaking with stunning views available on clear days.

From the Whitehorse Hill campground definitely do one of the many hikes in the area. Although it’s the busiest, the Hooker Valley Trail provides the best views of Mount Cook!

Spend the night at Mount Cook and enjoy an epic sunset behind the Southern Alps .

From Mount Cook make the long journey back to Christchurch.

In the city itself check out the botanical gardens and see how the city is rebuilding itself after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.

Head up to the summit of Mount Cavendish via the Christchurch gondola for some lovely views of the city before heading back to the airport.

3 Weeks in New Zealand – Fly into Auckland and out of Christchurch

We’ll continue the north-to-south theme with this itinerary. However, like the 2-week New Zealand itinerary, this one can also be done in reverse.

This route is slightly South Island heavy, but it does include 5 places we haven’t yet mentioned so there’s plenty of variety here!

Get over the jet lag and take it easy in the City of Sails, a true highlight of the North Island of New Zealand. Drive down to Waitomo in the evening. 

Spend the day spying glow worms or making your heart work just a little bit faster in New Zealand’s cave capital. 

After a day of caving drive to the village of Whakapapa in the Tongariro National Park in preparation for taking on the Tongariro Crossing. 

Get ready for some seriously sore feet as you take on what some regard as the best one-day walk in the world. 

After a good night’s sleep, take on the fascinating and often overlooked Forgotten World Highway which runs for 148 km from Taumarunui to Taranaki.

This quirky route is built on old colonial bridle paths through forests, gorges, and tunnels there are a lot of single-lane portions that will require some very careful navigation. 

However, after doing it, it’s easy to see why this is regarded as one of the best one-day drives in New Zealand. 

At the end of the Forgotten World Highway, you will have the opportunity to take in stunning views of Mount Taranaki before you head south toward Wellington.

Hitamangi is a decent place to spend the night as it’s only a couple of hours from here to Wellington.

From Hitamangi head down to Wellington to make the most of the Te Papa museum and then eat and drink yourself silly on Cuba Street!

After the gorgeous crossing from  Wellington to Picton (weather dependent of course) head over to the gorgeous seaside town of Kaikoura. 

Enjoy a well-earned pint in one of Kaikoura’s pubs 

Kaikoura’s greatest attraction is its stunning array of New Zealand wildlife. The seas around Kaikoura are home to sperm whales, dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and albatross amongst many others. 

There are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with these stunning creatures through the amazing wildlife activities on offer. 

If you don’t fancy getting wet then book one of the city’s whale-watching tours .

The ocean waters around Kaikoura are home to the world’s largest predator, the sperm whale, with both humpback whales and orcas passing through on their New Zealand coastal migration routes during the year. 

You can also check out kayaking trips to watch seals and dolphins as well as bird-watching trips to observe the albatross that live in the area. 

If you fancy staying on dry land then head to Point Kean to observe the seal colony. Do not get too close and do not get between them and the water.

This gorgeous part of New Zealand keeps you close to the coast, but Kaikoura’s mountainous backdrop is replaced by the green rolling hills of the Banks Peninsula. 

Spend your first day soaking up the sun in Akaroa , maybe head out dolphin watching or head out on one of the many hikes in the area. 

On your second day head over to the gorgeous and often deserted Okains beach before heading south towards Mount Cook.

Stop in at Fairlie bakehouse for an epic pie before powering on past Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki before arriving at Mount Cook.

You know the deal here! Hiking in some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand.

For so many years Wanaka was very much in Queenstown’s shadow.

However there are many that would say it’s little old Wanaka that is the leading light in this region of New Zealand. 

Spend your two days here hiking and giving your heart something to worry about with the various adrenaline activities on offer. 

A short, very pretty drive away from Wanaka is the adrenaline capital of the world – Queenstown.

Set on the edge of Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables across the way this is certainly one of the most picturesque places in New Zealand. 

However be warned, this is also one of the most expensive areas in New Zealand, so expect that to be reflected in the prices of accommodation and food. 

Spend at least one day doing some crazy adrenaline activities. This was the place where AJ Hackett created the bungy from the Kawarau Bridge.

If you fancy something altogether more terrifying then head for the Nevis or the Canyon Swing. I have done the latter and can confirm that it is absolutely amazing. 

On your second take a more sedate pace around Queenstown itself or take a day trip to either Arrowtown or Glenorchy .  

If you have the time and the money then Doubtful Sound is a must. It isn’t as famous as Milford Sound in New Zealand, but it should be!

Words and photos cannot describe the sheer size and beauty of this stunning expanse of wilderness. 

The drive from Queenstown to Manapouri is a long one, so if you’re planning an overnight trip you will probably need to drive down the night before.

However, if you’re doing a day trip then you can take day 15 to drive down, and day 16 to visit Doubtful Sound. 

We have an article on kayaking in Doubtful Sound which is well worth checking out. 

Day trips are certainly doable, but it is a long day.

To get to Doubtful Sound you will need to take a boat across Lake Manapouri, before and then a coach along the most expensive road in New  Zealand before reaching the shores of Doubtful Sound. 

Whether it’s raining or shining Doubtful Sound is absolutely stunning. 

From Manapouri head down to Curio Bay in the heart of the Catlins National Park.

This rarely visited New Zealand national park is nestled in the southeastern corner of the South Island. Its rugged coastline, gorgeous beaches, and hiking trails provide plenty of things to do. 

From Curio Bay , it’s possible to spot dolphins from the beach. 

A short drive from Dunedin is the gorgeous Otago peninsula. Like the Kaikoura peninsula, wildlife is what draws people here. 

The Royal Albatross Centre on the edge of the peninsula offers the opportunity to see these beautiful birds close up.

Come by in the evenings to see the adorably cute little blue penguins returning to their nests after a day of feeding. 

Additionally, take the opportunity to kayak with the area’s local seal population which is a truly fantastic experience. 

The peninsula is also home to numerous excellent hikes and trails. 

READ MORE: Adventure activities in Otago for you to check out.

Spend your final day driving back up to Christchurch and exploring the city’s botanical gardens and visiting some of its museums and art galleries before you return your wheels. 

Alternative Spots

Even 3 weeks in New Zealand is still a squeeze, so there are certainly a few places we’ve missed.

Sadly there are some difficult decisions to be made.

In general, there is probably more to do on South Island than on the North Island. However, this will naturally change from person to person. 

Here are a few areas that are also well worth visiting that we haven’t mentioned here: 

• Cape Reinga and the Northland 
• Napier and Hastings
• Nelson Lakes National Park 
• Marlborough Wine Region 
• Mount Aspiring National Park
• Any of New Zealand’s great walks
• Arthur’s Pass National Park 
• Hammer Springs 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Whanganui Journey in New Zealand – The Ultimate Guide [2024]

The ultimate guide to new zealand’s south island in winter.

5 Best Adventure Activities In Taranaki, New Zealand

Related Posts

Wanaka homestead review – a home away from home, 13 amazing things to do in franz josef (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

How to Plan the Perfect New Zealand Itinerary

Home » Blog » New Zealand » How to Plan the Perfect New Zealand Itinerary

With miles of jaw-dropping landscapes and experiences, it can be hard to decide how to plan for a trip to New Zealand. We’re walking you through how to put together the perfect New Zealand itinerary based on our travels.

New Zealand is truly one of our favorite countries to explore. And if you know me, you know how hard it is for me to choose favorites.

The relatively small island nation is home to an astounding variety of scenery: lush forests, snow-capped mountains, volcanoes, ancient glaciers, stunning coastlines, rugged fjords, and rolling farmland.

There are tons of activities to get your adrenaline pumping in the “Adventure Capital of the World”. You can go caving, hiking, skydiving, skiing, climbing, bungee jumping, jet boating, swimming with dolphins, camping… just to name a few.

But there are also plenty of opportunities to slow down. On our trip, we soaked in hot springs, sipped wine, sampled the local cuisine , slept in mountain huts, and relaxed on the beach.

We spent 5 weeks traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, and we’ve been lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly how to plan the perfect New Zealand itinerary, from how much time you’ll need to where to go and how to spend your days.

New Zealand itinerary contents

• Where to go
• Type of travel
• Where to start/end 
• How many days
• Typical Budget
• Accommodation
• Perfect New Zealand itinerary
• Booking your trip
• Itinerary planning resources

Want to save time and energy on planning?

If you want to save yourself the hours of research and planning, we’ve got you covered with our  ultimate done-for-you New Zealand Itinerary . This itinerary includes a lot of what you’ll find in this article,  plus so much more!

We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days (because so many people wanted a 1-month route) that hits the top destinations on both the North and South Islands in one epic road trip. 

We’ll send you our complete 1 month itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary today!

Where to go on your New Zealand itinerary

From the vibrant cities and geothermal wonders of the North Island to the wild fjords and towering mountains of the South Island, below is a list of places to consider visiting on your New Zealand itinerary. We’ve included the country’s main highlights as well as some underrated gems not to be missed.

(Are you skipping the North Island all together? Jump down to the South Island .)

North Island

With thermal hot springs, white sand beaches and enough volcanoes to make your head spin, New Zealand’s North Island is not to be overlooked. Though it is often outshined by its more mountainous neighbor to the south, we found the North Island to be quite enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a shortcut, we created a perfect New Zealand North Island itinerary that brings you to all the major highlights, as well as hidden gems off the typical tourist path.

We’re even sharing where to stay and what to eat in the North Island, so you have all the information you need right at your fingertips!

Below we’ve listed all of the top places to consider visiting on the North Island of New Zealand.

Due to its large international airport, Auckland is the entry point for most visitors to New Zealand. It’s also the country’s largest city, with more than a third of the national population residing here.

This “City of Sails” is a dynamic, multicultural metropolis with a buzzing waterfront, lots of green space, and a diverse dining scene. In addition to all the fun things to do in Auckland , it also makes a great base for some of the North Island’s best day trips.

Waiheke Island

Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a captivating gem known for its world-class wines, which visitors can sip while taking in the picturesque vineyards and olive groves that dot the landscape.

Nature lovers can explore pristine beaches, lush forests, and rugged coastal cliffs , while cultural connoisseurs browse art galleries, boutique shops, and fine dining establishments.

This geothermal wonderland of Rotorua boasts bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and colorful mineral-rich hot springs alongside lush forests and serene lakes. It is also home to the Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village and offers cultural experiences, including traditional Maori performances and cuisine.

Coromandel Peninsula

A coastal region with a laid-back vibe , the Coromandel Peninsula is home to some seriously bucket list-worthy experiences. Trek or kayak to the marine reserve at Cathedral Cove, dig your own personal hot tub at Hot Water Beach, or kick back in the charming seaside towns of Whitianga and Coromandel Town.

Mount Maunganui

Located in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, Mount Maunganui is a dreamy destination for hikers, surfers, and beach bums alike. Summit the iconic Mauao, an extinct volcanic cone , for panoramic views of the surrounding land and seascapes.

Bay of Islands

The 144 islands that make up this subtropical region are full of cute seaside towns and marine wildlife . The Bay of Islands is also historically significant, as this is where the Treaty of Waitangi (New Zealand’s founding document) was signed in 1840.

Cape Reinga

The Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean at the northern tip of the North Island. The mesmerizing collision of currents makes it easy to see why Cape Reinga is a site of deep spiritual significance in the Maori tradition. 

If you haven’t heard of Hobbiton, you may be living under a rock (or a hill!)… The Lord of the Rings film set is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions, complete with life-sized hobbit holes , magical gardens, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn.

Nestled in the heart of the North Island’s volcanic plateau, the deep blue waters of New Zealand’s largest lake provide a scenic backdrop for swimming and boating. On the north shore of the lake, the town of Taupo serves as a gateway for Tongariro National Park, home to New Zealand’s best day hike .

Hawke’s Bay

Hugging the North Island’s east coast, the region of Hawke’s Bay is known as “New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country” for good reason. With 200+ vineyards and 70+ wineries, Hawke’s Bay is one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World.

Not a fan of vino? You won’t be left wanting for other choices – craft beer, distilleries, fresh juices, cafes, and some of the country’s best restaurants – you’ll find it all in Hawke’s Bay.

New Zealand’s capital is a compact but thriving harbor city at the southern tip of the North Island. Caffeine fiends (like us!) will enjoy the city’s famous coffee culture , while foodies (also us!) can indulge in an eclectic dining scene . 

There are plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion in the urban hub with museums, galleries, theaters, and live music venues, as well as chances to explore the city’s natural surroundings.

Read more in our Wellington Travel Guide .

South Island

With picturesque fjords, snow-capped mountains, temperate rainforests, and black sand beaches, New Zealand’s South Island is a nature-lover’s paradise.

We’ve created an action-packed 2-week South Island New Zealand itinerary that hits the major highlights and gets off the beaten path. 

We even included tips for altering it to fit a shorter trip, and recommendations for what to see if you have more than two weeks to explore!

Below are some of the places we’d recommend including in your travels on New Zealand’s South Island.

Christchurch

Known as the “Garden City” for its parks, green spaces, and famous Botanic Gardens , Christchurch is a lively city with a buzzy vibe.

Rebuilding efforts following the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 focused heavily on environmental initiatives and Christchurch has since become a shining example of innovative urban planning and sustainability . 

Lake Tekapo

Situated in a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve and surrounded by the rugged Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo offers a tranquil escape on the South Island. With turquoise glacial waters by day and dazzling star-filled skies by night, the scenery at Lake Tekapo is nothing short of breathtaking.

Lake Pukaki

Another stunning alpine lake, the vivid turquoise color of Lake Pukaki is caused by “rock flour” suspended in the meltwater from the Tasman and Hooker glaciers. Its postcard-worthy surroundings and proximity to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park make Lake Pukaki a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

At 3,724 meters (12,218 feet), Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak and the crown jewel of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. It’s a haven for hiking and mountaineering; in fact, the majestic peak famously aided Sir Edmund Hillary in preparing to summit Everest. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be a legendary mountain climber (or even a hiker) to enjoy the park’s breathtaking glacial vistas and alpine scenery.

Not only is Queenstown credited as the birthplace of bungee jumping , it also offers a plethora of other heart-pumping activities, earning itself a reputation as the “Adventure Capital of the World”. Not an adrenaline junkie? No problem! From cultural activities to culinary adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Queenstown for all ages and interests.

Nestled on the shore of its namesake lake, Wanaka is a charming resort town with a proud craft beer culture. In the evenings, you can find outdoor enthusiasts enjoying a pint in one of the local breweries after a day of hiking, mountain biking, skiing (winter), or water sports (summer).

This idyllic lakeside town is the perfect base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions, such as Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, and 3 of the country’s 10 Great Walks. Meanwhile, Te Anau itself offers both relaxing and adventurous activities, including l ake cruises, glowworm caves, and a bird sanctuary .

Milford Sound & Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Area known for its untamed wilderness and biodiversity , and Milford Sound is the star of the show. With towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and verdant rainforests, Milford Sound is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the world.

Read more in our Milford Sound series:

• Milford Sound Cruise Guide
• Milford Sound Travel Guide
• Queenstown to Milford Sound Road Trip Guide

First thing’s first: “West Coast New Zealand” is a specific region, stretching from Haast to Kahurangi National Park on the South Island’s – well – west coast.

Okay, now that that’s cleared up… 

The West Coast was one of our favorite regions in the country, a wild and untamed wilderness ranging from glaciers and snow-capped alps in the south to palm trees and white sand beaches in the north.

Read more in our West Coast Travel Guide .

Lake Rotoroa

Enveloped by soaring mountain peaks and thick beech forests , Lake Rotoroa offers a remote escape 40 minutes from the nearest village of St. Arnaud. The surrounding Nelson Lakes National Park is threaded with trails ranging from leisurely walks to strenuous hikes. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching!

Abel Tasman

New Zealand’s smallest national park packs a big punch with golden sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush native forests. This coastal paradise holds secluded coves and hiking trails that are perfect for kayaking and spotting wildlife, such as dolphins and fur seals .

Situated on the shores of the South Island’s Tasman Bay, New Zealand’s sunniest city is a hub for artists and craftspeople of traditional, Maori, and contemporary persuasion. Visit the weekend markets for a chance to taste artisanal products and find a handcrafted souvenir to take home.

Marlborough

As New Zealand’s largest wine region, Marlborough is best known for its Sauvignon Blanc and fresh seafood (a match made in heaven!), as well as its diverse and stunning scenery. Rolling vineyards give way to the Marlborough Sounds, an intricate network of sheltered waterways and island sanctuaries that are home to dolphins, whales, seals, and the iconic kiwi bird.

The coastal town of Kaikoura is renowned as one of the best places in the world for marine wildlife encounters, including whale watching and swimming with dolphins (ethically!). The abundant marine life coupled with its striking position between the dramatic Kaikoura Ranges and the Pacific Ocean make this a truly one-of-a-kind destination.

Dunedin and Otago Peninsula

Dunedin rests at the head of a sheltered harbor, cradled by the Otago Peninsula on the South Island’s eastern shore. The city is steeped in Scottish heritage and historic architecture, including New Zealand’s only castle.

On the Otago Peninsula, scenic drives and hikes offer opportunities to view penguins, seals, sea lions, and albatross in their natural habitats. 

Stewart Island

Located 30 kilometers south of New Zealand’s South Island, Stewart Island is a perfect place to get away from civilization. This remote island is known for excellent bird spotting, hiking, stargazing , and the peace that comes with being on an island with just 400 permanent residents.

Great Barrier Island

For picture-perfect beaches, untouched forests, and secluded bays, Great Barrier Island is a place to get away from it all. This tropical-feeling island is completely off-grid and has a population of 1,000 people. Getting here requires a 4.5-hour ferry ride from Auckland or a 30-minute flight.

When to go to New Zealand

Spring (December – February) in New Zealand means temperatures are warming up and the days are getting longer. This is also lupin season, which is a big draw for photographers.  

Summer (January – March) brings long and sunny days with warmer temperatures — great for hiking and long days at the beach. 

Fall (March – May) is a great time to avoid high season crowds (and prices!) while still having enough daylight and comfortable temps to enjoy an array of outdoor activities.

Winter (June – August) in New Zealand is great for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Or if you are on a tight budget, this season brings the most discounted rates and the fewest crowds of the year. 

Our personal pick would be to plan your New Zealand itinerary during the shoulder season between spring and summer (November/December).  

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns, and other factors, check out our complete guide to the best time to visit New Zealand . 

Car vs. Campervan: How to get around on your New Zealand itinerary

Though public transportation in New Zealand is pretty good, having your own set of wheels is hands-down the best way to explore the country for a few reasons:

• You can see hidden gems and get off the beaten path.
• You’ll be able to travel on your own schedule, and getting from point A to point B is faster.
• Driving in New Zealand is easy and parking is plentiful.

Now that we’ve established you’re renting a vehicle, you might be wondering, car or campervan?

Renting a car in New Zealand is fairly straightforward, but it has a few little quirks that might surprise you, even if you’re a pro at car rentals. We put together a huge guide to New Zealand car rentals to share all our insider information with you, including things we wish we’d known before our trip.

The main advantage of renting a car (as opposed to a campervan) is that a smaller vehicle is generally easier to drive and park. And unless you’re really into campervans (like us!), you’re probably more used to driving a car and might be more comfortable with this option.

Be sure to book your rental car and any rental gear before your trip begins. And don’t forget travel insurance ! Picking a policy that covers your rental car is often cheaper than buying a separate policy through the rental company.

We personally traveled by campervan for 5 weeks in New Zealand and loved every minute of it! We think it’s the best way to explore this glorious country. Here are a few reasons why we love it:

• It’s easy. There are few countries in the world as well set up to accommodate campervans as New Zealand, and there are tons of places to camp (some of which are free!).
• You can save money. When you see the price tag attached to a campervan rental, you’ll probably think “Whaaat?! That ain’t cheap!” But what you have to remember is that this is your rental vehicle and your accommodations all in one!
• You can save money (again). Is there an echo in here? You can also save money in a campervan by cooking your own meals , so I think it’s worth repeating!
• It’s the adventure of a lifetime! Campervan travel adds a level of freedom even beyond driving a car, as well as experiences you won’t get at a hotel. It’s magic. Trust me.

If this got your attention, we have a guide to the best campervan rentals in New Zealand that walks you through your rental options and what to look out for. We’ve even included an exclusive discount for our readers! 

We also put together a HUGE guide to planning your New Zealand campervan trip with tons of insider tips and advice. Make sure to give it a read before booking your trip!

Where to start and end your New Zealand itinerary

Deciding where to start and end your travels is another factor you’ll want to consider when planning the perfect New Zealand itinerary.

New Zealand has quite a few international airports – there’s one in just about every major city. So you’ll have a lot of options to choose from.

We’ve done the research, and we personally recommend starting your itinerary in Auckland .

For starters, you’ll likely fly into Auckland, since it has the biggest international airport. And as New Zealand’s largest city, you’ll find a wide selection of rental cars and campervans you can pick up in Auckland.

However, if you want to start your road trip somewhere else, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown also have plenty of options for campervan pickups.

We’ve designed our 1-month New Zealand itinerary to begin in Auckland and end in Christchurch. Some rental companies will allow you to pick up and return your vehicle in different locations (sometimes for a fee). If not, you can always hightail it back to Auckland to return your rental.

Cook Strait Ferry

The Cook Strait Ferry operates between the North and South Islands in New Zealand, connecting the cities of Wellington and Picton. The ferry service provides both passenger and vehicle transportation, making it a vital link for travelers exploring both islands.

Not only is it an efficient way to get from one island to the other (especially if you are traveling by campervan or car), the ferry is an iconic journey across the Cook Strait with incredible views. Many people believe it’s the most scenic ferry crossing in the world! 

How many days is enough for New Zealand?

This is a tough one to answer because even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough. Seriously.

We spent 5 weeks traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, and we’ve been lucky enough to experience a lot of what this country has to offer. Even so, we still left with a loooong list of things to do “ next time ”. 

That said, we do have some suggestions based on the amount of time you have to explore New Zealand:

1 Week New Zealand

If you have just one week, we recommend focusing on a specific area. Base yourself in a city like Queenstown or Auckland and plan for a couple of day trips.

2 Weeks New Zealand

Choose one island to explore. We have perfect 2-week itineraries ready-to-go for both the North Island and South Island . All the hard work is done for you!

1 Month New Zealand

We think a month is ideal for your first trip to New Zealand . With our 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary , you’ll experience a good chunk of the country’s must-sees and hidden gems (we have lots!).

5+ Weeks New Zealand

Extra time? Even better! Our 1-month New Zealand itinerary is packed with insider tips to customize your trip , including what to add if you have more time.

What is a typical travel budget for New Zealand?

I’ll give it to you straight: New Zealand ain’t cheap. But don’t let that stop you – it is still totally possible to explore New Zealand on a budget . 

If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, you could get by with a daily budget of $60 – $90 per person.

If you want a few splurges and to stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $100 – $150.

On the other hand, you could easily blow through upwards of $200 per person per day if you book luxury hotels, eat out, and pack your itinerary with tours like bungee jumping and scenic helicopter flights.

For a more detailed breakdown, see our New Zealand travel guide .

Where to stay around New Zealand

New Zealand is a developed country with lots of accommodation options. As with any destination, lodging will be more plentiful (but generally more expensive) in the city centers, and prices will be higher during peak tourist season (December to February in NZ).

Our New Zealand itinerary has options for hotel/Airbnb stays as well as campsites, so you can tailor it for your personal travel style.

From chains like Holiday Inn to boutique hotels and resorts, you can find it all in New Zealand. Hotels are usually concentrated around metropolitan centers and may not be available in some remote areas. We recommend using Booking.com to search for hotels and compare prices.

Insider Tip: Traveling on a tight budget? Use Booking.com to search and compare prices for hostels. With the exception of certain campsites, hostel dorms are usually the cheapest accommodations out there.

Renting an Airbnb is one of our favorite ways to get to know a place. Plus, they offer experiences you won’t get in a hotel:

• Get off the typical tourist track and experience the country from a local’s point of view.
• Stay in the suburbs or the countryside, outside of the major hotel areas.
• Enjoy perks like having your own kitchen and laundry – especially for a long-term stay.
• Psst! Read about why we prefer Airbnbs over hotels when traveling with a baby.
• Save money!
• Find unique stays, like this rainforest retreat near Auckland .

Never booked an Airbnb before, or worried about getting a dud? No sweat – we have Airbnb basically down to a science. We even created a whole guide to booking Airbnbs where we share all our tried and true secrets to ensure a great experience.

There are all types of campgrounds in New Zealand, from totally free to pretty pricey (like $70 NZD per night), from unmaintained sites to holiday parks with hot showers, BBQs, and all the frills. And then there’s everything in between.

New Zealand campsites are also quite different from those in North America. Most of the camping in New Zealand is more or less a field where campervans have space to park.

We know how overwhelming it can be to sift through tons of campsites while trying to decipher unfamiliar jargon (what exactly is a “holiday park?!”). So we created a New Zealand camping guide , complete with a rundown of the rules and a map of the best campsites in the country.

Our perfect New Zealand itinerary

Countless hours were spent researching our route for New Zealand. We pored over article after article. We talked to Kiwis and asked for their local advice. And we finally came up with a plan.

All our research paid off: We had an incredible road trip! So, we’ve taken our road trip route and made it even better for you. 

We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days (because so many people wanted a 1-month route) that hits the top destinations on both the North and South Islands . We added some things we wish we would have made it to and we altered a couple things here and there that we wish we would’ve done differently.

This New Zealand itinerary is set up to be done as a campervan road trip . However, you can also follow this route if you’re traveling with a rental car and staying at hotels or Airbnbs along the way. 

Important Note: One thing to know about traveling in New Zealand is you’ll need to be flexible. The weather in this country can be highly unpredictable (especially on the South Island), and a day of heavy rain or a surprise snowfall might derail your plans of hiking or bungy jumping. We would highly recommend having some “flex days” so you can alter your plans if you encounter weather that is not ideal. Trust us on this one.

Highlights of our New Zealand itinerary

Below are some of the can’t-miss things to do in New Zealand that we’ve included in our epic one month itinerary. 

• Discover Auckland and Waiheke Island
• Hike to Pinnacles Hut and witness the sunrise over the Pinnacles
• Explore the beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula
• Sea kayaking to Donut Island and camping on the beach
• Take the Hobbiton movie set tour
• Hiking in and around Rotorua and Lake Taupo
• Trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Eat and drink your way through Wellington
• Swim with dolphins (ethically!) in Kaikoura
• Wine tasting in Marlborough
• Explore Abel Tasman National Park
• Go rafting through a glowworm cave
• See Pancake Rocks
• Get up close and personal with Franz Josef Glacier
• Drive the beautiful Haast Pass
• Hiking around Wanaka
• Adventure activities in Queenstown
• Cruise Milford Sound
• Enjoy the laid back but incredibly scenic Key Summit hike

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a paid itinerary since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $15 for an entire 1-month itinerary. We think this is an extraordinary value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

If you don’t have enough time to do both islands, we broke down our full itinerary into separate itineraries in the following articles:

• North Island Itinerary
• South Island Itinerary

Booking your New Zealand trip

We have a handful of go-to resources that we use when planning nearly all our trips. Here are the platforms we use to book our most basic travel needs:

• Flights: Skyscanner
• Campervan rentals: Motorhome Republic
• Rental cars: Discover Cars
• Hotels: Booking
• Unique accommodations: Airbnb

Don’t forget about travel insurance!

Hold up – don’t even think about getting on a plane without this! Travel insurance is just as important as your passport and, contrary to popular belief, it is not expensive.

We know a lot of people will forego this step simply because they get too overwhelmed by all the options. 

Please don’t do that!  

We made a comprehensive guide to travel insurance to help you out. We share which companies we use and what policy details to look for when you go over your travel insurance comparison.

Our recommendation: 

Our personal pick for travel insurance is SafetyWing . Their policies are geared toward frequent travelers and digital nomads, and they’re one of the few providers who have coverage for Covid-19.

What sets SafetyWing apart is their emphasis on flexibility and adaptability . Unlike traditional insurance policies with fixed durations, SafetyWing’s coverage is designed to be subscription-based, allowing travelers to pay on a monthly basis and enjoy continuous protection while on the move.

New Zealand itinerary planning resources

We have TONS of resources for planning your trip in our New Zealand travel guide . Below are some of our top recommended articles for New Zealand itinerary planning…

• Things to Know Before Traveling in New Zealand
• Exciting Things to Do in New Zealand on Your First Visit
• New Zealand Travel on a Budget + Money-Saving Tips
• Best Time to Visit New Zealand: When to Go & When to Avoid!
• Ultimate Guide to Planning Your New Zealand Campervan Trip
• Best Campervan Rentals in New Zealand
• Best New Zealand Campsites: Ultimate Guide + Map
• Car Rental in New Zealand: Essential Guide + Tips
• Incredible New Zealand Hikes + Local Tips
• Best New Zealand Foods to Try (& what to skip!)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for New Zealand !  It’s full of good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your campervan trip in New Zealand. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Want your itinerary planned for you?

• Perfect 1 Month New Zealand Itinerary
• South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip
• North Island New Zealand: 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Are you planning your own perfect New Zealand itinerary and still have questions? Let us know in the comments below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (2) on “ How to Plan the Perfect New Zealand Itinerary ”

Dear friend superb guide you covered almost everything a traveler should look into. I’ve been thinking lately that I would love to visit I am glad to read your blog about your travel experience very interesting thanks. Your personal experiences and vivid descriptions truly bring the city to life, making me feel like I’m right there with you on this incredible journey. Your blog is a wonderful source of inspiration for fellow adventurers looking to explore the magic of. Keep sharing your stories and insights – they’re a delight to read! Sreenandhana from Kerala tourism.

Great article! I am thinking of a two month New Zealand trip next year, in October, November, and December. Will probably fly into Auckland and spend about three weeks to a month road tripping the North Island. Then will go down to the South Island and spend about a month to five weeks road tripping before going back up to Auckland and flying home. How is the weather in the North island during mid October to mid November? Will I be able to hit up beaches? Also, is mid November to mid December a good time to see lupins on the South Island? What would be the ideal (female) packing list during this time? Thanks in advance!

P.S Hope you enjoyed your Arizona hike! Can’t wait to hear about it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• facebook-official
• youtube-play
• pinterest-circled

New Zealand in 1 Month (4 Weeks / 30 Days): Road Trip Itinerary

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the ultimate 4-week new zealand road trip itinerary.

We know that you have heard a million times: one month is not enough time to explore New Zealand . But if four weeks is all the time you have for travelling Aotearoa , then you can certainly have a good go at it! In the itinerary below, we go over how you can really make the most of New Zealand in four weeks.

The great thing about road-tripping around New Zealand for four weeks is that it opens many transport options for you to really make the trip your own. We go through a quick guide on how to get around New Zealand in a month before we get into the itinerary. For an idea of what awesome destinations to hit, as well as activities and budget accommodation, take a look at the 30-day New Zealand itinerary below. You’ll also get an idea of travel time between destinations so you can work out the perfect New Zealand trip for you.

What’s more, we show you how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel – more on that at the bottom of the itinerary.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary for 4 Weeks (30 Days): Overview

• Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)
• Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua (via Hobbiton)
• Day 3 – Explore Rotorua
• Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo
• Day 5 – Taupo to the Tongariro National Park
• Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Ranges
• Day 7 – Adventure in the Ruahine Ranges
• Day 8 – Ruahine Ranges to Wellington
• Day 9 – Wellington to Picton
• Day 10 – Picton to Nelson
• Day 11 – Explore Nelson or Abel Tasman Day Trip
• Day 12 – Nelson to Punakaiki (via Nelson Lakes)
• Day 13 – Punakaiki to Franz Josef
• Day 14 – Franz Josef to Wanaka
• Day 15 – Wanaka to Queenstown
• Day 16 – Explore Queenstown or Milford Sound Day Trip
• Day 17 – Queenstown to Mt Cook
• Day 18 – Explore Mt Cook
• Day 19 – Mt Cook to Geraldine (via Lake Tekapo)
• Day 20 – Geraldine to Christchurch
• Day 21 – Christchurch to Kaikoura
• Day 22 – Explore Kaikoura
• Day 23 – Kaikoura to Picton
• Day 24 – Picton to Wellington
• Day 25 – Wellington to Whanganui
• Day 26 – Whanganui to Stratford
• Day 27 – Stratford to Waitomo
• Day 28 – Explore Waitomo
• Day 29 – Waitomo to Auckland
• Day 30 – Explore Auckland + Departure

How to Get Around New Zealand in 4 Weeks

We’re not going to beat around the bush there is going to be a lot of driving – A LOT. If you can handle it, then get yourself a rental vehicle and continue down to the itinerary below. Otherwise, if driving almost every day for an entire month does not quite sound like the trip you were imagining, then consider travelling New Zealand by bus. Here are your options when it comes to travelling New Zealand in a month.

Car or Campervan Rental

The itinerary below begins and ends in Auckland meaning that you can have the same rental vehicle for the entire trip and avoid those hefty “one-way” fees. Get started with planning your vehicle rental in New Zealand with The Guide to Renting a Car and The Guide to Renting a Campervan in New Zealand .

National Coach

By far the cheapest option for getting around New Zealand is by coach. Get one of the InterCity bus passes to hit all of the destinations listed below. For more information, see How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand .

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

A hop-on hop-off bus is a flexible bus tour where you can hop off the bus at any point on the route and jump back on the bus at a later date. There are a few hop-on hop-off bus companies in New Zealand where their national bus passes have a minimum travel time of around 20 days, which you can discover for yourself in  Hop-On Hop-Off Buses in New Zealand: Complete Guide + How Do They Work .

Escorted Bus Tours

All the logistics are sorted out for you, so all you need to do is enjoy. There are a number of bus tour companies offering 21-28-day tours around New Zealand following a similar itinerary to what is featured below, yet including accommodation, some meals and some activities. Check them out in The Best 20+ Days Tours of New Zealand .

For more ways to explore New Zealand, take a look at the 10 Best Ways to Travel Around New Zealand .

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei (Coromandel)

Drive time: 2 hrs 15 mins

You’ve arrived in Auckland , New Zealand! You will have plenty of time to see the city toward the end of this 4-week New Zealand itinerary, but for now, head south toward the Coromandel and the start of your one-month New Zealand adventure. Coromandel is the home of beautiful beaches, most famously, Cathedral Cove .

Things to Do in Hahei

These are pretty relaxing and accessible activities/sights to see for your first day in New Zealand:

• Hike to the famous Cathedral Cove and its beach with white cliffs and a giant coastal arch
• Take a boat tour with Hahei Explorer to Cathedral Cove
• Explore beaches and islands with Cathedral Cove Kayaks
• Go to Hot Water Beach at low tide to dig yourself a hot pool in the sand.

For more ideas, head to the  22 Best Things to Do in The Coromandel .

Accommodation in Hahei

• Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Hahei Holiday Resort
• Tatahi Back Packer

See more like this in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Coromandel .

• The Church Accommodation
• Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort
• Hahei Beach Apartment

For more mid-range stays, take a look at the  15 Best Hotels & Resorts in the Coromandel .

Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua (Via Hobbiton)

Drive time: 3 hours

Your final destination today is Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and for being the cultural heart of New Zealand. Before you get there, don’t miss the Karangahake Gorge , halfway through the drive. There are a number of walking tracks in the area between 45 minutes to 4 hours going through a historic mining area taken back by the forest and the river. Walk through mining tunnels, through native forest, alongside mining relics and to magnificent waterfalls.

On the other hand, you may want to use that time to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in the town of Matamata .

Things to Do in Rotorua

If you get to Rotorua with time to spare, here are a few suggestions.

• Relax in a natural geothermal hot pool. There are paid options, such as the Polynesian Spa (more info on  Klook  or  KKday ) , or go find some of the 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua
• See an evening cultural performance at one of the Maori attractions
• Go for a bite to eat on Eat Streat and beyond
• See the forest decorated on the Redwoods Treewalk
• Have a race on the night Luge at Skyline Gondola .

For more recommendations, check out the  25 Best Things to Do in Rotorua .

Accommodation in Rotorua

• Holdens Bay Holiday Park
• BKs Rotorua
• Rock Solid Backpackers

For more options, check out the  20 Best Budget Accommodations in Rotorua .

• Kings On Peace
• Silver Fern Rotorua
• Aura Accommodation

See more stays in  The 50 Best Accommodations in Rotorua .

• Pullman Rotorua
• Regent of Rotorua
• Ngamihi Lodge

More lavish finds are available in the  20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Rotorua .

Day 3 – Explore Rotorua

There is so much to do in Rotorua that it is the perfect place to have a break from driving. There’s a huge range of activities from adrenaline fixes, wildlife, Maori cultural shows, geothermal parks and so much more!

• Geysers, steaming lakes, bubbling mud, silica terraces and so much more can be seen in one of the many geothermal parks of Rotorua
• Catch a Maori cultural performance (if you missed doing so yesterday)
• Do some adrenaline activities Zorb your way in a giant hamster ball down a hill, go luging from the top of the Skyline Gondola , hike or mountain bike in the Redwood Forest , jet boat or do a freefall experience at the Velocity Valley , and so much more!
• See native New Zealand wildlife at Wingspan or National Kiwi Hatchery (more info on Viator and Klook ) .

For more inspiration, get stuck into The Complete Guide to Rotorua .

Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo

Drive time: 1 hour

Not too far from Rotorua is Taupo on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake! Again, there really is a lot to do here. If you want to skydive and/or bungy jump on the North Island then Taupo is a great place to do it. Plus, there are plenty of options to get out on the lake, relax in hot pools, see raging waterfalls and more!

Things to Do in Taupo

• Take a trip out on New Zealand’s largest lake , whether it’s fishing, kayaking, sailing, cruising or parasailing
• Bungy jump over the Waikato River with Taupo Bungy
• Do a skydive with Taupo Tandem Skydive
• Go on a white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River with Tongariro River Rafting
• Walk along the Waikato River to a natural hot pool at Spa Park , then onto Huka Falls
• Sail to the Maori Rock Carvings with Sail Barbary (more info on Viator and Klook ).

For more inspiration, take a look at the 20 Best Things to Do in Taupo .

Accommodation in Taupo

• Haka Lodge Taupo
• Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
• Chevron Motel

Check out more options over at the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Taupo .

• Millennium Hotel Lake Taupo
• Suncourt Hotel

For more, check out the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Taupo .

• Hilton Lake Taupo
• Flying Trout Boutique Lodge

Discover more upscale finds in the  15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Taupo .

Day 5 – Taupo to Tongariro National Park

Drive time: 1 hr 15 mins

Get up early and drive to the Tongariro National Park to do the Tongariro Crossing , New Zealand’s most popular day hike over the volcanic plateau. Otherwise, take your time getting to the Tongariro National Park and enjoy one of the shorter hikes in the area , still giving fantastic views of the Central North Island volcanoes. You also have the option of mountain biking or even skiing on the Whakapapa Ski Field in winter.

Things to Do in Tongariro National Park

• Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , taking you over the volcanoes of the central North Island. The 6-8-hour hike is one-way and requires some planning in terms of transport and keeping safe; take a look at our Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to work out a plan
• Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa Ski Field in winter
• Choose from other hikes in Tongariro National Park, such as Tawhai Falls , Silica Rapids and Taranaki Falls
• Discover the birthplace of the Haka at the historical Opotaka .

For more ideas, check out the  15 Best Things to Do in the Tongariro National Park .

Accommodation in National Park Village

• National Park Backpackers
• Howards Mountain Lodge
• The Crossing Backpackers

See more options in the  7 Best Hostels in National Park Village & Whakapapa .

• Plateau Lodge
• The Park Hotel
• Tongariro Crossing Lodge

Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Ranges

Drive time: 2 hours

The mission today is to spend some time in the New Zealand wilderness. Ruahine Forest Park is an awesome place to do that and a local favourite! There are a few different wilderness lodges and camping options in the Ruahine Forest Park, as well as activities from hikes to horse riding to white water rafting.

To break up the journey, stop in Ohakune for a coffee or check out the Mangawhero Walking Track (1-hour loop) to walk in the forests at the base of Mt Ruapehu.

Your final destination today will be at one of the accommodation options listed below. You’ll get more time to explore the area or do an activity there tomorrow.

Accommodation in the Ruahine Ranges

• River Valley Lodge
• Makoura Lodge
• Historic Shearers Quarters
• Mairenui Rural Retreat

Day 7 – Adventure in the Ruahine Ranges

It’s time to relax/go wild in the Ruahine Forest Park ! Whatever your bag is, you could do some white water rafting or horse riding at River Valley , horse riding, 4x4ing or claybird shooting at Makoura Lodge , or hiking in the Ruahine Ranges . Alternatively, relax at your farmstay to get a taste of Kiwi life.

Things to Do in the Ruahine Ranges

• Go white water rafting with River Valley
• Horse trek through the stunning landscape with River Valley Stables or Makoura Lodge
• Hike one of many Ruahine tracks listed in the 25 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North .

Day 8 – Ruahine Ranges to Wellington

Drive time: 3 hrs 20 mins

Your final destination today is the capital city of New Zealand! However, we recommend breaking up the drive by stopping along the Kapiti Coast , full of beaches and walks to check out! Walk over a sand dune walkway at Queen Elizabeth Park or relax on Pekapeka Beach . There’s plenty more to discover in the  10 Best Things to Do on the Kapiti Coast .

Once you reach Wellington you have the evening to enjoy the eateries and nightlife of the capital city ! You’ll have more time to explore Wellington on the way back up north.

Accommodation in Wellington

• Microtel by Wyndham Wellington
• The Dwellington
• Trinity Hotel

Need more options? Head to the  15 Best Budget Accommodations in Wellington .

• Willis Village
• U Boutique Hotel
• Quest on Thorndon

Check out The 50 Best Accommodations for all of your best options.

• InterContinental Wellington
• Rydges Wellington
• Sofitel Wellington

See more stays in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wellington .

Day 9 – Wellington to Picton

Ferry time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Today you have the treat of taking the ferry from the North Island to the South Island ! We recommend a sunrise or sunset sailing for the best prices and the best light for a stunning journey across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds – see The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island: Full Guide .

Depending on what time your sailing is, you will either have time to do something in Wellington or Picton . Here are some ideas.

Things to Do in Wellington

• Visit the Te Papa Museum to learn everything there is to know about New Zealand
• Go to Zealandia to see native New Zealand wildlife
• Do a self-guided  Lord of the Rings tour or be guided by Xplor Tours
• Tour the city sights of Wellington from the Waterfront to Cuba Street to the Botanic Gardens to Mt Victoria. Find out more in our   One Day in Wellington: City Walking Tour Itinerary …

… And more as listed in the  25 Best Things to Do in Wellington .

Things to Do in Picton

• Take the Beachcomber Cruises ‘ mail boat cruise out onto the waters of the Marlborough Sounds
• Go dolphin swimming with E-Ko Tours (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Mountain bike the Link Pathway or Queen Charlotte Track
• Kayak around the harbour with Wilderness Guides
• Take a tour of the wine region and do some wine tasting with Sounds Connection .

Learn more about these activities, as well as many others, in the  20 Best Things to Do in Picton .

Accommodation in Picton

If everything goes to plan and you do not miss your ferry then these are some excellent accommodation options in Picton.

• Harbour View Motel
• Waikawa Bay Holiday Park
• Tombstone Backpackers

For more ideas, check out the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Picton .

• Beachcomber Inn
• Tasman Holiday Parks Picton
• A Sea View B&B

Check out the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Picton for more details on these accommodations and others.

• Kippilaw House
• Escape to Picton Boutique Hotel
• Bay of Many Coves

Learn more about these stays in the  10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Picton .

Day 10 – Picton to Nelson

Drive time: 1 hr 50 mins

Do one of the activities that you missed in Picton yesterday or hit the road to Nelson .

Stop by Havelock to take a boat cruise out into the Marlborough Sounds or join a kayaking tour with Pelorus Eco Adventures down the Pelorus River one of The Hobbit filming locations . For more inspiration, check out the   10 Best Things to Do in Havelock .

Then you will reach New Zealand’s sunniest city, Nelson, where you will have more opportunities to do some of the following activities…

Things to Do in Nelson

• Walk to the Centre of New Zealand found in the Botanic Reserve
• Step back in time and also try some craft beer at Founders Park
• See where the One Ring was made at the Jens Hansen Ringmaker store
• See native birds at the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary
• Treat yourself to local Nelson cuisine …

… And the list continues over in the 20 Best Things to Do in Nelson .

Accommodation in Nelson

• Delorenzo Studio Apartments
• Tahuna Beach Holiday Park
• Tasman Bay Backpackers

There’s a lot more listed in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Nelson .

• The Hotel Nelson
• Harbourside Lodge
• Quest Nelson

Check out more options in the   20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Nelson .

• The Sails Nelson
• Tides Hotel
• Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

More indulgent options await in the  10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Nelson .

Day 11 – Nelson or Abel Tasman Day Trip

Drive time: 0-1 hour

Nelson is the gateway to three national parks in the South Island. One of which is the Abel Tasman National Park , full of pristine golden sand beaches backed with lush forest. Tours operate from Nelson daily taking you into the Abel Tasman National Park, such as Wine, Art & Wilderness . Either drive to Kaiteriteri yourself (1 hour one way) for maximum flexibility or take one of the shuttle services.

In Kaiteriteri, you have a great deal of Abel Tasman options from kayaking tours, water taxis to hikes, or boat tours…

Things to Do in the Abel Tasman National Park

• Paddle a traditional Maori canoe with Waka Abel Tasman
• Skydive over beaches with Skydive Abel Tasman (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Do some beach-hopping by kayak with Wilson’s Abel Tasman
• Cruise Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri with Wilson’s Abel Tasman
• Take a hiking a boat cruise of Abel Tasman from Nelson with Wine, Art & Wilderness .

Learn more about these activities and more in the  20 Best Things to Do in the Abel Tasman National Park .

Day 12 – Nelson to Punakaiki (via Nelson Lakes National Park)

Drive time: 3 hrs 45 mins

There’s a fair bit of driving to do today but the beautiful views of the Buller Gorge help pass the time quickly. There are a few quaint towns to stop by for a coffee, such as Murchison . However, to really make the most of the drive we suggest taking a 20-minute detour into the Nelson Lakes National Park to see the beautiful Lake Rotoroa or Lake Rotoiti . Both are very similar in terms of views and short walks available so take your pick!

Once you arrive in Punakaiki , you have plenty of experiences to choose from but don’t miss the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes for their impressive and bizarre rock formations.

Things to Do in Punakaiki

• Do the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk
• Visit the Punakaiki Cavern
• Kayak on the Pororari River with Waka Puna
• Experience Barrytown Beach by horse wagon with Golden Sands Horse and Wagon Tours
• Sample the Paparoa Track , one of the New Zealand Great Walks.

Learn about all of these activities and more in the  10 Best Things to Do in Punakaiki .

Accommodation in Punakaiki

• Te Nikau Retreat
• Punakaiki Beach Hostel

More details on these hostels can be found in the  5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Punakaiki .

• Punakaiki Beachfront Motels
• Punakaiki Beach Camp
• Tasman Sea Retreat
• Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Day 13 – Punakaiki to Franz Josef

Head to the West Coast’s Glacier Country where you’ll find some of the world’s most mesmerising glacier experiences. Franz Josef is your opportunity to walk on, crawl inside, fly over, skydive over or walk up to a glacier, as described in the 7 Ways to Take on New Zealand’s Glaciers . Nevertheless, there’s actually more to do here than glacier gallivanting! Check it out in the list below.

Things to Do in Franz Josef

• Do a heli-hike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides
• Do one of New Zealand’s highest skydives over the glacier and the Southern Alps with Skydive Franz Josef & Fox Glacier (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Hike to the Franz Josef Terminal Face
• Relax in the Waiho Hot Tubs
• Kayak on the reflective waters of Lake Mapourika with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours (on Viator and Klook ) .

Get much more details over in the  25 Best Things to Do in Franz Josef .

Accommodation in Franz Josef

• Franz Josef Montrose
• Rainforest Retreat
• Glow Worm Accommodation

Discover more affordable stays in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Franz Josef .

• Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
• Punga Grove
• Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef

Head to the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Franz Josef for more recommendations.

• Te Waonui Forest Retreat
• Westwood Lodge
• Kahere Retreat

For more details, check out the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Franz Josef .

Day 14 – Franz Josef to Wanaka

Drive time: 3 hrs 40 mins

You’ve got a long drive ahead today but plenty of reasons to stretch your legs. You’ll be going through another super scenic road on the Haast Pass where we recommend you stop at Thunder Creek Falls just a minute’s walk from the road. Then don’t miss the Blue Pools of Haast . This is a 1-hour return walk through the forest to some of the clearest and bluest rivers you will ever see!

This evening, you will have the time to relax by the beautiful Lake Wanaka .

Things to Do in Wanaka

• Hike up Roy’s Peak
• Climb a waterfall with Wild Wire Wanaka
• Visit Puzzling World and get lost in their giant maze
• Skydive over beautiful Lake Wanaka with Skydive Wanaka
• Cruise to a sanctuary island on Lake Wanka with Eco Wanaka Adventures .

Head to the 25 Best Things to Do in Wanaka for more ideas.

Accommodation in Wanaka

• Altamont Lodge
• Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Mountain View Backpackers

More cheap stays can be found in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Wanaka .

• Club Wyndham Wanaka, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
• Archway Motels & Chalets
• The Moorings Motel and Apartments

Check out the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Wanaka  for more ideas.

• Wanaka Luxury Apartments
• Lime Tree Lodge
• Edgewater Hotel

More recommendations can be found in the  10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wanaka .

Day 15 – Wanaka to Queenstown

Time to hit the “Adrenaline Capital of the World”! Take the Crown Range  to be the best views on the way to Queenstown. Once there, you have so much to do! Take a look at The Complete Guide to Queenstown or the list below.

Things to Do in Queenstown

• Do a bungy jump; you have three to choose from in Queenstown
• Do a giant swing with Nevis Swing or Shotover Canyon Swing
• Experience the thrills of a jet boat ride
• Go skiing or snowboarding at The Remarkables in winter
• Hike Ben Lomond .

The possibilities are endless, as described in the 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown .

Accommodation in Queenstown

• Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Adventure Queenstown Hostel
• Melbourne Lodge

Choose from more affordable stays in the  15 Best Budget Accommodations in Queenstown .

• Lomond Lodge Motel & Apartments
• The Glebe Apartments
• Alexis Motel & Apartments

Browse all of the top stays in The 50 Best Accommodations in Queenstown .

• QT Queenstown
• Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
• Hulbert House

Find out more about each premium accommodation in our 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Queenstown .

Day 16 – Explore Queenstown (or Milford Sound Day Trip)

With towering mountains, untouched rainforest and unbelievable scenery, Milford Sound is an unforgettable journey.

To have a break from driving, we recommend taking one of the many bus tours to Milford Sound and then boarding a cruise of the fiord. Bus trips give you plenty of opportunities to hop off the bus and do multiple short walks on the way. For more information, get your head in the 10 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown & Te Anau .

If a 13-hour bus and cruise trip doesn’t appeal, see the 6 Best Scenic Flights to Milford Sound from Queenstown instead.

However, if you want a break from the road, you have plenty more options for things to do in Queenstown listed above as well as some more inspiration in the 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown .

Day 17 – Queenstown to Mt Cook

If you have not had enough of epic scenic drives, then here’s one more for you through the Lindis Pass on the way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.

On the way to Mt Cook, consider stopping by the Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell to challenge your travel buddies to go-karting or stop by Omarama for their hot pools with a view. Additionally, there is a pleasant river walk in Twizel .

Once at Mt Cook , you have a lot of options to explore the heart of the Southern Alps with its glaciers, but we’ll get onto that more tomorrow.

Accommodation in Mt Cook

• Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
• Glentanner Park Centre

You know the drill; check out  5 Best Budget Accommodations in Mt Cook .

• Aoraki Court Motel
• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge
• Aoraki Alpine Chalet

See the  10 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Mt Cook for your top options.

• The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook
• Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
• Lakestone Lodge

Go high-end with the  5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Mt Cook .

Day 18 – Explore Mt Cook

There are many ways to enjoy the impressive landscape of the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park , from glaciers to lakes to mountains, so you’ll want to spend a whole day doing some or all of the following activities!

Things to Do in Mt Cook

• Walk the Hooker Valley Track
• Land on the Tasman Glacier in a ski plane (more details on Viator or Klook )
• Do a heli-hike on New Zealand’s longest glacier with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding
• Go boating on the Tasman Lake with Glacier Explorers
• Stargaze in the Aoraki Mt Cook International Dark Sky Reserve .

That’s right, you can learn more about these experiences, as well as many others in the  20 Best Things to Do in Aoraki Mt Cook .

Day 19 – Mt Cook to Geraldine (via Lake Tekapo)

Next stop, Geraldine! This is not without an obligatory stop at Lake Tekapo with its vibrant blue lake and the most scenic church in New Zealand, The Church of the Good Shepherd . We have a list of experiences for you in the  10 Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo .

Stop by the Fairlie Bakehouse for one of their award-winning New Zealand pies, then onward to Geraldine . You have time to either do an activity this evening or tomorrow morning so take your pick from the following!

Things to Do in Geraldine

• Do grade 5 white water rafting on the Rangitata River with Hidden Valleys
• Go canyoning in the Kaumira Canyon with Big Rock Adventures
• Walk in the Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve
• Explore the Orari Gorge Track
• Visit all of the town’s vintage museums, including the Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Museum , Route 79 Museum , Roger Mahan Heritage Centre and Geraldine Museum .

All of these and more are listed in the  10 Best Things to Do in Geraldine .

Accommodation in Geraldine

• Geraldine Top 10 Holiday Park
• Waikonini Homestead
• The Empty Nest
• Geraldine Motels
• ASURE Scenic Route Motor Lodge
• Four Peaks Motel
• The Vicarage
• Ngā Whare Mānatu

Day 20 – Geraldine to Christchurch

If you missed any of the awesome activities yesterday, take the time to do them before you hit the road to Christchurch.

Journey through the Canterbury Plains, perhaps stopping by the Ashburton Domain to stretch your legs, to Christchurch where you now get the chance to explore the South Island’s biggest hub.

Things to Do in Christchurch

• Wander around the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• Visit the Canterbury Museum
• Take to the skies in a unique way with Adventure Balloons NZ
• Take a hop-on hop-off tram tour of the city (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Feel the freeze at the International Antarctic Centre
• Try some Kiwi cuisine in Christchurch .

Get more details in the  15 Best Things to Do in Christchurch .

Accommodation in Christchurch

• The Bealey Quarter
• Southwark Hotel & Apartments
• BreakFree on Cashel

See more reasonably-priced stays in the  12 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch .

• Golden Hotel
• ibis Christchurch
• Quality Hotel Elms

All the top recommendations can be found in 20 Best Hotels in Christchurch .

• The Observatory Hotel Christchurch
• Sudima Christchurch City
• The Mayfair

For the cream of the crop, check out the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Christchurch .

Day 21 – Christchurch to Kaikoura

Enjoy a coffee in Christchurch before hitting the road toward Kaikoura , the marine wildlife mecca of New Zealand. The drive is a scenic one along the coast until you reach the small coastal town famous for its seafood and sea life. Although you have a full day to make the most of Kaikoura tomorrow, there is so much to do that you can start exploring straight away!

Things to Do in Kaikoura

• Walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway  with multiple viewpoints over seal colonies
• Catch a scenic flight with Wings Over Whales (more info on Viator  and Klook ) to see whales from the sky
• Join a wildlife boat tour to see whales with Whale Watch Kaikoura (on Viator and Klook )
• Have a close encounter with seals with Seal Kayak Kaikoura (on Viator and Klook )
• Try some famous Kaikoura crayfish at the local restaurants.

More details can be found in the  20 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura .

Accommodation in Kaikoura

• Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park
• Dusky Lodge and Backpackers
• Brook House B&B & Cottages

Find more affordable stays in the  15 Best Budget Accommodations in Kaikoura .

• Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments
• Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
• Koura Bay Golf Resort

For more options, take a look at the  21 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Kaikoura .

• Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses
• Glenburn Coastal Retreat
• The Hamptons

Discover more details in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Kaikoura .

Day 22 – Explore Kaikoura

Because there is so much to do in Kaikoura, we recommend spending the day doing any activities you missed yesterday. Plus, here are some more things to do in Kaikoura, which are best done if you are spending a whole day here.

More Things to Do in Kaikoura

• Hike Mt Fyffe for some epic views.
• Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat with Dolphin Encounter
• Land in the majestic Kaikoura Mountains with Kaikoura Helicopters
• See the world’s largest seabirds with Albatross Encounter
• Trek through woodlands with a special friend with Kaikoura Llama Trekking .

Again, more details can be found in the 20 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura .

Day 23 – Kaikoura to Picton

Next stop, Picton! As you travel to Picton, be sure to stop off in Blenheim . Blenheim is surrounded by vineyards and is in the centre of New Zealand’s biggest wine-making region. Take advantage of that fact by going on a wine-tasting tour or hiring a bike for a self-guided tour among the vines. Check out our top recommendations in the   15 Best Things to Do in Blenheim .

Once you reach Picton , again, you have a lot of things to do from exploring the Marlborough Sounds to mountain biking to hiking. Take a look at the list on Day 9 to see if there was anything you missed, or get more inspiration from the 15 Best Things to Do in Picton .

Accommodations in Picton are also listed on Day 9 .

Day 24 – Picton to Wellington

We recommend taking the ferry early today to give you enough time to explore Wellington – see The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island   for a full recap.

Was there an activity that you missed in Wellington? Check Day 9 for recommendations or simply head to the 25 Best Things to Do in Wellington .

Then have a relaxing evening in New Zealand’s capital city, perhaps indulging in its food scene (see The Food Guide to Wellington ), before hitting the road up north tomorrow!

Day 25 – Wellington to Whanganui

Drive time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Make your way back up north via the west coast of the North Island to see some wild coastline and the perfectly-shaped Mt Taranaki volcano. The journey begins by heading toward Whanganui , a coastal town with a culturally important river and a whole lot of charm.

Things to Do in Whanganui

• Check out Victoria Avenue for its shopping and historic architecture
• Walk the tunnel to the Durie Hill Elevator then climb the Durie Hill Tower !
• Visit the stunning Kai Iwi Beach
• Watch the insane amount of birds at Virginia Lake
• Experience the Whanganui River by canoe with Ki Tai .

More ideas can be found in the  15 Best Things to Do in Whanganui .

Accommodation in Whanganui

• Whanganui River TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Riverview Motel
• Braemar House

Check out the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Whanganui for more ideas.

• Anndion Lodge Motel
• 151 On London Motel
• The Avenue Hotel

Get more inspiration from the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Whanganui .

• Rutland Arms Inn
• Aotea Motor Lodge
• Browns Boutique Bed & Breakfast

Find alternative upscale stays in the 7 Best Luxury Accommodations in Whanganui .

Day 26 – Whanganui to Stratford

Drive time: 1 hr 30 mins

On today’s drive, you’ll get to see the wild west coast of the Taranaki region as you make your way up to Stratford . Stratford is on the edge of the Egmont National Park with the impressive Mt Taranaki at its centre. Stratford gives good access to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre and the Stratford Plateau on Mt Taranaki giving you a great deal of walking and hiking options through enchanted forests to waterfalls and volcano views!

Things to Do in Stratford

• See the town centre Glockenspiel that performs at 10 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 7 pm
• Do the Wilkies Pools Loop Track  and Dawson Falls Track
• Take a stroll around King Edward Park
• Step back in time at Pioneer Village
• Check out the Percy Thomson Gallery .

For more recommendations, head to the  10 Best Things to Do in Stratford and the 10 Best Things to Do in Egmont National Park .

Accommodation in Stratford

• Stratford Motel and Holiday Park
• Regan House
• Amity Court Motel
• Antonio Mews Motel
• Brecon Pond Bed & Breakfast
• Platinum Lodge
• The Old Eltham Post Office

Day 27 – Stratford to Waitomo

Drive time: 3 hrs 15 mins

Now it’s time for an ironically unforgettable journey through the Forgotten World Highway . Fill up with fuel before delving into this historical and isolated part of the North Island.

You will get breathtaking views of Mt Taranaki as you leave Stratford. Stop by the Republic of Whangamomona and get your passport stamped. After that, you will go through old tunnels (or over them if you are too scared), as well as through the wild and wonderful Tangarakau Gorge . There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. You can find a few in our 10 Places You Can’t Miss on the Forgotten World Highway .

After a long drive to Waitomo , just relax in Waitomo in one of these affordable accommodations.

Accommodation in Waitomo

• Juno Hall Backpackers
• Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge

Learn more in the  10 Best Budget Accommodations in Waitomo .

• Waitomo Orchard Estate B&B
• Woodlyn Park Motel

See more options in the  10 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Waitomo .

Day 28 – Explore Waitomo

Now you have the whole day to enjoy one or more of the epic glowworm and caving activities in Waitomo . Join one of the caving operators in Waitomo, throw on a sexy wetsuit and tube/abseil/climb your way through the glowworm caves! There are a few walks in the area too if you are still feeling active.

Things to Do in Waitomo

• Explore the Waitomo caves with one of the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours
• Do a walking tour of the Ruakuri Cave  or the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Do the Ruakuri Bush Walk  at night to see glowworms
• Go on a caving adventure with Waitomo Adventures , The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. (more info on Viator and Klook ) or Cave World Waitomo .

Check out the  15 Best Things to Do in Waitomo for more recommendations.

Day 29 – Waitomo to Auckland

Take your time driving up to your final destination on this four-week itinerary of New Zealand. There are a lot of quirky little towns to stop by on the way like Otorohanga with the best public toilets in New Zealand and the Ed Hillary Walkway in the centre of town. For a bit of nature, do one of the short walks of the Pirongia Forest Park , or revel in what people can do with nature at the Hamilton Gardens .

You’ll then reach Auckland city where you can relax tonight at one of the harbour eateries or on top of the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sky Tower (more info on Viator and Klook ) . Well give you more ideas on what to do in Auckland tomorrow, but if you have time, you can fit in some activities this evening.

Accommodation in Auckland

• ibis budget Auckland Central
• Empire Apartments
• Attic Backpackers

More cheap stays can be found in the  20 Best Budget Accommodations in Auckland .

• SkyCity Hotel Auckland
• Auckland City Hotel
• Ramada Suites Victoria Street West

There’s a lot more where that came from in The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland !

• SO/ Auckland
• The Hotel Britomart
• voco Auckland City Centre

See more stays in the 25 Best Luxury Hotels & Accommodations in Auckland .

Day 30 – Explore Auckland + Departure

Drive time: 45 minutes

For your final day in New Zealand, why not have one last day of wild beauty by taking the ferry to one of the off-shore islands , like Rangitoto , Waiheke or Tiritiri Matangi ?

Alternatively, this could be your last chance to do a skydive in New Zealand with Skydive Auckland or jump from the Sky Tower . You can even cruise out into the harbour searching for whales and dolphins with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari (more info on Viator and Klook ) . Auckland really has a lot to offer!

Things to Do in Auckland

• See T-rexes and Maori artefacts at the Auckland Museum (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Walk up the volcanic Rangitoto Island
• Drink wine and be merry on Waiheke Island
• See protected wildlife on the Tiritiri Matangi Island bird sanctuary
• Do a skydive at Skydive Auckland
• Jump off the Sky Tower with the SkyJump or walk around the top of it with the SkyWalk
• Take a whale-watching cruise with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari (on Viator and Klook )
• Walk to Mt Eden for some city views.

And the list continues over at the  50 Best Things to Do in Auckland .

Departure from Auckland Airport

Then, it’s time to return your rental car and head to Auckland Airport for the next step of life’s adventure. You can either return your vehicle at your vehicle rental company’s Auckland Airport depot and then the company will likely provide a free shuttle to your requested terminal.

Alternatively, you can return your vehicle to the Auckland city depot (perhaps on Day 29 ) and take an airport transfer to the airport – take a look at The Cheapest Airport Transfers for Auckland Airport for recommendations.

Plan This Itinerary with First Light Travel

If you like this New Zealand road trip itinerary for four weeks but don’t like the hassle of planning everything yourself, then there’s a way to lighten the load. First Light Travel is an online travel agent specialising in road trip itineraries in New Zealand. Plus, using their service is super simple:

• First , send First Light Travel an enquiry by completing their online form
• Then , you’ll receive your customised self-drive itinerary
• Review your itinerary and work with your First Light Travel agent on perfecting it
• Finally , First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel has access to more than 20,000 travel products, including almost all the tours and accommodations featured on this list (and more). With that and their local expertise here in New Zealand, they will create a well-catered itinerary to meet your needs while also suggesting some dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. They only work with companies where their past clients have had positive experiences, so you know you’re in good hands.

What’s more, all of the bookings are arranged by First Light Travel, so instead of having to contact each individual accommodation and operator should your travel plans change, any amendments can be done through your FLT agent – easy! Did we mention the service is at no extra cost to you?!

For more information on planning your own New Zealand itinerary, see  How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary . Or better yet, jump on firstlighttravel.com and start making your own itinerary there.

More New Zealand Itineraries for 1 Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days

That’s the end of our New Zealand road trip itinerary for four weeks / 30 days. If this itinerary didn’t take you fancy, see our alternative one-month itineraries:

• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: 1 Month
• New Zealand Family Itinerary: 1 Month
• New Zealand Honeymoon & Romance Itinerary: 1 Month
• New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: 1 Month
• New Zealand Food  Itinerary: 1 Month
• How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, new zealand luxury itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days, new zealand family itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days, new zealand honeymoon & romance itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days, new zealand food itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days 🥝, new zealand budget & backpacking itinerary: 1 month / 4 weeks / 30 days, recommended for you, the best way to spend 7 days in the south island, north island 1 week (7 days) road trip itinerary (auckland to wellington), north island in 2 weeks: new zealand road trip itinerary 🚗⛰️ [2024], destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

Welcome/Kia Ora By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Ora! By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 NZ Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer – About Us – Our Standards

2 Weeks in New Zealand Itinerary: 14 Days of Adventure, Scenery and Culture

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

Sharing is caring!

New Zealand was one of our family’s most memorable stops on our gap year, and one of the longest as well: we spent 6 weeks exploring the best of Aotearoa. Since most visitors can’t spare that much time, we’ve partnered with local expert Veronika of Go Ask A Local to share her top picks for a 2 week New Zealand itinerary.

That reflects the typical time most visitors have to explore, and it’s enough to give you a wonderful taste! You won’t see everything (even we couldn’t!) but you will enjoy many of the best places to visit in New Zealand. In this 14 day itinerary for New Zealand we’ve tried to give as much detail as you need to plan your own adventure, including where to stay, transportation and a mix of free and paid top New Zealand activities.

There’s so much to see and do here that one trip will never be enough to experience it all, but this comprehensive 14 day New Zealand itinerary covers a lot of ground and gives a perfect introduction to my country. Enjoy!

As you can see below, the basic structure is a four day NZ North Island road trip followed by a 10 day South Island New Zealand itinerary.

14 Day New Zealand Itinerary overview

Here’s a quick overview of your 14 day New Zealand itinerary, including quick booking links to expedite your travel planning. You don’t need to do every one of these activities, but choose the ones that excite you! Be sure to book your car , lodgings and must-do New Zealand activities well in advance so you don’t miss out.

• Pick up rental car at AKL
• 1 night hotel in Auckland CBD
• All Blacks Experience

Stay 3 nights in Rotorua

• Waitomo Cave or Glowing Adventures small group caving tour
• Hobbiton evening banquet tour
• Tamaki Maori Village (evening)
• Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland
• Return rental car at ROT
• Fly from Rotorua to Christchurch

Stay 2 nights in Christchurch

• Pick up rental car at CHC
• Christchurch Bike Tour
• Waka on Avon
• Akaroa wildlife tour
• Stay 2 nights in Mt Cook Village
• Dark Sky Project
• Top of Tasman flight/glacier hike
• Stay 2 nights (potentially 3) in Queenstown
• Bike the Central Otago Rail Trail
• Jet boat & hike
• Waterfall climbing
• Stay 2 nights Te Anau
• Glow Worm cave
• Off-roading and jet boat
• Milford Sound cruise with Southern Discoveries or RealNZ
• Milford Sound kayaking tour
• Stay 1 night in Queenstown (unless you’ve modified itinerary as below)
• Return rental car at ZQN

Detailed 2 Week New Zealand Itinerary

New zealand itinerary day 1: auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland

Overview of the city

Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, our largest and most diverse city. The Auckland region is dotted with 48 volcanic cones which provide spectacular panoramic views of the city and harbour. Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park encompasses an incredible 1.2 million hectares of coast, sea and islands – and you have myriad ways to explore it.

The jewel of the Hauraki Gulf is Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves, farm land, and golden beaches. Auckland is also a shopper’s paradise with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. 

For foodies, you can discover the diverse range of cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from around the globe and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart precinct and City Works Depot.

Upon arrival in Auckland, you’ll want to pick up your rental car at the Auckland airport. That’ll give you the most flexibility to explore the city and enable an early morning tomorrow. Just be prepared for the city’s terrible traffic!

Where to stay in Auckland

You’ll be staying just one night in Auckland. To make the most of your limited time exploring the city, stay in the Auckland CBD . Here are some great options to research for where to stay in Auckland your first night:

• Fable Auckland, MGallery
• Crowne Plaza Auckland
• SkyCity Hotel
• Mövenpick Hotel Auckland

Things to do in Auckland

Viaduct Auckland : Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, Viaduct Harbour is a residential, commercial and entertainment precinct. Viaduct Harbour boasts some of Auckland’s finest restaurants and bars, from fresh seafood at Kermadec Ocean Fresh Restaurant, to the ever-popular bar and restaurant Waterfront, the lively atmosphere at O’Hagans to a stylish dining experience at Soul. Regardless of where you dine, you can count on being seated overlooking the water while sipping fine wine and enjoying terrific food. 

All Blacks Experience : Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 45 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka, up close and personal. You can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in a hands on, interactive zone.

Britomart : This is a vibrant shopping, entertainment and business precinct in the heart of downtown Auckland. Surrounded by beautiful heritage buildings, it’s a neighbourhood of buzzing restaurants and cool bars, designer boutiques and quirky art spaces. You’ll find cutting-edge street fashion and the HQs of some of New Zealand’s leading creative and corporate organisations. Plus, the best of downtown waterfront Auckland is just outside your front door. If you’re feeling hungry, you have fresh Italian fare, authentic Vietnamese, best-in-class coffee, and delicious desserts all in one place. 

Read more: 10 tips you need to read before you visit New Zealand

New Zealand Itinerary Day 2: Auckland – Waikato – Rotorua

Driving distance: 3 hours (without stops)

One of the richest agricultural and pastoral areas of the world, the Waikato is home to New Zealand’s famous dairy and thoroughbred horse racing industries and is a base for a number of agri-businesses and research institutes. Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.

Where to stay in Rotorua

You’ll be staying 3 nights in Rotorua, which is potentially the longest stop you’ll have on this action-packed 2 week New Zealand itinerary. If you’re normally inclined to stay in vacation rentals for the extra space, creature comforts and laundry then this is the best time to do it!

You’ll be driving around the region so it’s not critical to stay in the center of town. That said, town has a bustling scene especially along Eat Streat.

• Lakeside cottage with full laundry – sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms, beautifully appointed with amazing views
• Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua – beautiful lakeside hotel with indoor pool, cultural shows and a variety of room sizeas
• Best Western Braeside Rotorua – family-oriented retreat offering multi-room suites with mini golf, playground, pool, game room and more

Things to do in Waikato and Rotorua

Waitomo Caves : Under the green hills of Waitomo lies a labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers. The area’s name comes from the Maori words wai (water) and tomo (hole). The caves were carved by underground streams pushing through soft limestone over thousands of years. Many have amazing stalactites growing down from the ceiling and stalagmites growing up from the cave floor. The cave walls are also decorated with galaxies of native glow worms. 

The easiest way to see the caves is with a walking or boat tour. If you’re into adventure, try the unique experience of blackwater rafting – you’ll crawl, swim and float through the caves on a rubber tube. You can also abseil or zip-line through the darkness.

Glowing Adventures – Private Glow Worm Eco Tour : An off the beaten track eco tour where guides will escort you through native New Zealand forest and into untouched caves. Small tours of no more than 8 people give groups the ability to move slowly through the caves and really enjoy and explore, including a rather mesmerizing glow worm display. You’ll see the caves just as nature intended. There are no handrails, electric lights, concrete paths, or other modifications, and the tour involves climbing over boulders, up hills and wading through streams. Be aware that a moderate level of fitness is required.

Hobbiton Tours in Matamata -the evening banquet tour : For any Lord of the Ring fans, experience the Hobbiton Movie Set with a guided tour through The Shire at dusk. You’ll be escorted though the 12 acre site, with a guide recounting fascinating stories and anecdotes about the trilogies. The tour concludes at The Green Dragon Inn with a complimentary beverage. You’ll then be moved through into The Green Dragon dining room and treated to a banquet feast fit for a Hobbit.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 3: Rotorua

Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as fascinating Maori culture. From crystal-clear streams and gorgeous forest, to epic biking trails and explosive geysers, Rotorua has something for everyone. 

Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland. After marvelling at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity within you have lots of options to enjoy a simple soak in a natural hot stream or indulge in a wellness getaway at a luxurious spa. 

To experience Maori culture, hospitality and food, try a hangi feast cooked in the steaming ground and take a tour of an authentic pre-European village at Tamaki Maori Village – find out more here . The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, native forests and 18 fresh water lakes, making it the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Things to do in Rotorua

Tamaki Maori Village : Rotorua is, in many ways, the modern capital of Maori culture in New Zealand. In this fun-filled evening you’ll see traditional performances, take part in Maori games and agility training activities and enjoy the traditional hangi feast. It’s one of the best things to do in Rotorua for good reason!

Rotorua Canopy Tours · Ultimate Canopy Tour – Eco Zip Line experience : This tour takes you deep into untouched New Zealand forest. It’s an adrenaline-fueled experience with great kiwi guides who lead small groups on really personal tours.

OGO Rotorua · Zorbing : Try out a slice of Kiwi ingenuity – take a sneak peek at the OGO making factory and try out a dry or wet ride OGO Ride while overlooking the spectacular views of Lake Rotorua & Mokoia Island.

Te Puia Arts and Crafts Centre, Rotorua – Geyser by night : Discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud and beautiful native bush. During this nighttime experience you’ll get to experience the geothermal valley in an inimitable multi-sensory experience. 

Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua – Nightlights Forest Walk : Another nighttime activity, this tour offers the opportunity to explore Rotorua’s majestic Redwood forest under the shroud of darkness. Illuminated by design and sustainability champion David Trubridge’s bespoke creations it’s an immersive and captivating environment which encompasses 30 lanterns, over 40 “infinite colour spots” and feature lights that illuminate the 117-year-old redwood trees, forest ferns and pungas.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 4: Day trip to Lake Taupo

The town of Taupo sits at the edge of Australasia’s largest lake. Local attractions include trout fishing, skiing, and geothermal parks. Lake Taupo is actually a huge volcano with a fiery history whose most recent eruption, in 181 AD, was large enough to change the sky as far away as Europe and China. According to Maori legend, the lake is the pulsating heart of Maui’s fish (New Zealand’s North Island). 

The lakeside town provides a base for visitors who love to fish for trout, ski Mount Ruapehu and explore the local geothermal phenomena. Popular Taupo experiences include Huka Falls, geothermal walks, a prawn farm, and lake cruises. This is also a fantastic region for year-round mountain biking, with the recent completion of the Great Lake Trail. Along with cycling, there’s excellent hiking and golf opportunities. 

Things to do in Lake Taupo

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland : Sculpted by volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is one of New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse sightseeing attractions. You’ll see a uniquely different natural landscape whose formation lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. Just don’t mind the smell!

Huka Falls: The Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river, moves gracefully north from Lake Taupo between banks 100 metres apart. Just before the Huka Falls it enters a shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock. The effect of this rapid change is nature’s large-scale equivalent of a fire hose feeding into a very fine nozzle. The previously placid waters roar and rumble at great speed along the ravine before bursting into space out over Huka Falls to crash into the pool 11 metres below. A foot bridge right at the top of the falls puts you in a prime position to get up close and witness the explosive display of more than 220,000 litres of water blasting by every second.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 5: Fly from Rotorua to Christchurch

Christchurch overview

Christchurch city promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. As the gateway to the South Island, it’s a must on any itinerary. Christchurch has an evident energy which Lonely Planet described as a “vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively.” The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favourites. 

Visit the Re Start container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to the creative vibe. Traditionally known as the Garden City, Christchurch’s award winning Botanic Gardens are over 150 years old and boast an enviable collection of exotic and native plants. The Avon River flows gently through the city centre, making Edwardian punt rides an iconic way to sightsee. Alternatively, catch a ride aboard the Historic Tram or take a bicycle tour to learn about Christchurch’s history.

Where to stay in Christchurch

It’s worth staying in Christchuch Central City for your two nights, as it’s a lovely area full of wonderful sites to explore. The city also boasts numerous charming bed & breakfasts in the heart of the action, even with a variety of room sizes to accommodate all needs.

• Orari Boutique Hotel – lovely historic home that has been converted to a bed & breakfast
• The Grange B&B – modern amenities in a historic mansion
• Sudima Christchurch City – a taste of luxury in a fantastic location

Things to do in Christchurch

Christchurch Bike Tours : Take a leisurely 2.5 hour guided cycle tour along the peaceful cycle paths of Christchurch’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, riverside cycle trails, and through the green expanse of Hagley Park to historic Mona Vale. With flat elevation and purpose-built cycle paths, the route is both accessible and enjoyable, and urban hire bikes are custom-fit to each client.

Riverside Market Christchurch: This is an exciting new development consisting of a 7-day-trading, indoor farmers’ market that links to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars. It provides a reliable source of fresh, organic, locally grown food and supports small local businesses, community, and the environment through an initiative to minimize packaging and waste.

Waka on Avon : Explore Christchurch by Waka on the Avon River. Leaving from Margaret Mahy Playground, this 45 minute waka paddling experience is a unique historical and cultural trip on Ōtākaro Avon River. You’ll paddle a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon while learning about the importance of the waka to Māori culture. 

Early Māori originally came to Aotearoa New Zealand by Waka. Then 180 years ago, waka were an important part of the early building of Christchurch, with Māori and early settlers transporting on, trading by and working along the Avon River together. It’s a memorable experience.

Margaret Mahy Playground: If you’re traveling in New Zealand with kids, you won’t want to miss Margaret Mahy Playground! It’s the best playground in New Zealand and has apparatus for children from toddlers through tweens. You can easily spend several hours here, so bring snacks.

Quake City : This interactive exhibit explains how the Canterbury Earthquake occurred and the far-reaching impacts on Christchurch and its surroundings.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 6: Day trip to Banks Peninsula

An easy drive south-east of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula is the South Island’s most interesting volcanic feature. Originally an island formed by two volcanic cones, the peninsula has two dominant craters which form Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours. The peninsula was named for botanist Joseph Banks, who sailed with Captain James Cook on the Endeavour. 

The Banks Peninsula is likened to the crown of Christchurch with the two magnificent harbours as the main jewels set within it, where the old craters were invaded by the sea in ages past. The crater rims stand majestically in a ring of craggy peaks and the outer flanks boast some of the most spectacular outer coast scenery in New Zealand of towering cliffs punctuated by beautiful sandy beaches.

Things to do in Banks Peninsula

Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa : The ultimate dolphin experience – during this cruise you’ll get the chance to see and swim with these beautiful marine mammals close up in the wild in their natural habitat. You’ll swim with the endangered Hector’s Dolphin, the world’s rarest and smallest oceanic dolphin. Hector’s dolphins are protected in Akaroa Harbour by a marine mammal sanctuary. Please note though that there is no touching of the dolphins as this is a pure natural encounter where participants enter and respect Hector’s dolphin’s environment and behaviour.

Akaroa: Located on the south-east side of the deep, sheltered Akaroa Harbour, the charming township of Akaroa is unique as it was the only French settlement in New Zealand. And the best way to explore Akaroa is on foot. You can visit local restaurants which focus on French cuisine and head along to Barrys Bay Cheese, where they continue making cheese with century-old methods. If you have time after strolling through the town, take a harbour cruise to view dolphins, penguins and fur seals.

Pohatu Penguin Habitat: How about an evening penguin tour? This is a wonderful option for people who wish to view penguins in the wild. You have a few tour options, one of which includes pick-up at Akaroa with a truly spectacular Scenic 4WD van ride to Pohatu. The tour concentrates mostly on the Little penguin but other native and endemic birds may also be seen. 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 7: Christchurch – Canterbury Plains – Mt Cook National Park 

Stay 2 nights in the Park

Driving distance 3.5 hours (without stops)

The Canterbury Plains is an area of braided rivers and pastoral perfection between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. Almost perfectly flat, the plains are a remarkable sight from the air – a patchwork of agricultural activity that ranges from grazing grass and wheat to herbs and sunflowers. The area produces more than 80% of New Zealand’s grains, crops and seeds.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers in the country. It is alpine in the purest sense, with towering peaks, glaciers, and permanent snow fields all set under a star-studded sky.

Where to stay near Mt. Cook

You’ll want to stay right in Mount Cook village for easiest access to some of the best scenery in New Zealand. When you consider where to stay, keep in mind that the area is very remote with just a few restaurants. Many visitors find it easiest to bring provisions with them to prepare at least breakfast and lunch, even if they opt to dine in one of the village’s handful of restaurants for dinner.

• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge – Clean, budget-friendly accommodations with a lovely shared kitchen and lounge that opens to a perfect deck for daytime relaxing or nighttime star gazing Note from Melissa: We stayed here during our own visit to Mount Cook and met many wonderful fellow travelers! We would return in a heartbeat.
• The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook – Full service hotel, including most of the village’s dining options so it’s a great choice if you don’t want to worry about bringing and preparing food
• Aoraki Alpine Chalet – Perfect for a big group (up to 8) or those wanting more space without sacrificing location or amenities

Where to stop between Christchurch and Mt Cook

Lake Tekapo: picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water. On the shores on the lake you’ll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district and is still used as a place of worship. 

Dark Sky Project – The Summit Experience : at Otehiwai, University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. Prepare for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery at the world-renowned research centre, New Zealand’s most popular stargazing & observatory experience. Minimum age 7.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 8: Mt Cook National Park 

The park encompasses 23 peaks over 3000 meters high, but is surprisingly accessible for people wanting all different levels of physical activity.

As mentioned previously, far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent, and the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. 

Mountaineers regard the area to be the best climbing region in Australasia, but less-skilled adventurers can still find plenty of satisfaction with the mountain walks that lead to alpine tarns, herb fields and spectacular glacier views. Encounters with cheeky kea (mountain parrots) are part of the fun.

At 27 kilometers in length, the mighty Tasman Glacier is a powerful piece of landscaping equipment. While it slowly carves the valley sides, it provides a landing place for small ski planes and helicopters.

Things to do in Mt Cook National Park

Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike : You’ll start with a scenic flight into the Tasman Glacier, with views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and the surrounding snow-capped mountains that form the Southern Alps. From there, you’ll continue to explore the incredible Tasman Glacier on this one in a lifetime hiking experience. You can do this with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding which offer an excellent level of safety with guides certified by the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. The guides have years of experience exploring the glacier so you get extensive local knowledge to help you discover hidden gems.

Tekapo Springs · Hot Pools: This complex has three hot pools and an Aqua Play Area with yet another two pools. You get steam and sauna rooms with cold plunge pools adjacent to the hot pools. As you relax, you have stunning views of the lake, mountain, and forest. You also have an excellent onsite café with both indoor and outdoor dining.

Hooker Valley: This is one of the most popular walks in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, seen in the photo above. You’ll pass through Hooker Valley as you walk alongside the Hooker River. Walking one of these tracks is the best way to experience the pristine wilderness here. Walks encompass up close views of icebergs, glaciers and majestic mountains. Good luck ever putting your camera away!

The full Hooker Valley walk takes 4 hours start to finish. It starts at the Visitor Centre or White Horse Hill campground/carpark (at the end of Hooker Valley Rd off State Highway 80) and the track leads up the Hooker Valley, along the Hooker River and ends at the glacier lake, where on a clear day you’ll catch amazing views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. It’s a mostly flat trail but a few sections are rocky or muddy, and there are three swing bridges to cross. As always, be prepared for ever-changing weather conditions.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 9: Mt Cook – Central Otago – Queenstown 

Stay 2 nights in Queenstown (or potentially 3 depending on the timing of your departing flight – see note on Day 13)

Driving distance 3 hours (without stops).

You will cross one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets The “Lindis Pass” as you head into Central Otago. It’s a powerful landscape, sunny, dry and brown with weathered ancient mountains, alpine herb fields and fast lowing rivers.

Central Otago, on New Zealand’s South Island, is know for its wine, cycling and dramatic scenery. Taste your way around the sunny Central Otago’s Pinot Noir vineyards, cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail or explore picturesque heritage towns.

Your destination for today is Queenstown which sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables mountains rising up behind it. This is a sophisticated resort town that’s mindbogglingly scenic. With both lake and mountain activities, its well-suited to almost any kind of adventure. For those looking for some luxury, Queenstown is just as well known as a place for indulgence.

Where to stay in Queenstown

Queenstown can get very busy, especially in summer and winter. You’ll be happy to have centrally located accommodations that offer parking.

• Crowne Plaza Queenstown – Queenstown’s best located luxury hotel. With lake views and all of the amenities you’d expect from a 4-star hotel, the Crowne is a top choice for those who don’t mind a little splurge.
• Holiday homes – Because Queenstown is a year-round adventure destination, there’s an enormous selection of holiday homes for rent! Find one that offers the space you need within your budget and enjoy. If you’ve packed light for New Zealand, this is also a great opportunity to catch up on laundry (especially if you wind up staying for 3 nights). Just double-check that your chosen property includes bed linens, as not all holiday homes in New Zealand do.

Where to stop between Queenstown and Mt Cook

Clyde: in historic Clyde you can wander the town, relax in countless lovely cafes, and just enjoy the atmosphere or hire a mountain bike to explore the surrounding hills. This historic town is located at the foot of a river gorge and is surrounded by rounded hills of schist punctuated with large craggy rocks. Schist is gold bearing rock and pretty substantial finds in the rivers near town sparked a gold rush in the late 1800s. It’s easy to see why some of the first Europeans here chose this site as a place to settle. The micro-climate offers hot, dry summers, with mild springs and autumns that are full of nature’s colours. 

Bike It Now! – Biking the Otago Rail Trail : Hope on a bike and explore the Otago Central Rail Trail as it cuts through the Raggedy Range that separates the Manukerikia and Ida Valleys. Highlights of this section of the trail include the 37m high Poolburn Viaduct, two tunnels, the trails longest bridge, and of course Central Otago’s stunning landscapes. You should allow 5- 6 hours for the whole experience including some time to stop for a bite to eat.

Queenstown: Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations. It sits on the shore of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu amidst dramatic mountain ranges. Queenstown is suited to all kinds of adventures – especially throughout summer. Activities like hiking (like Queenstown Hill pictured above), paragliding, zip lining, 4WD driving, and kayaking are a great way to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful outdoors.

Other activities like skydiving , jet boating, river rafting and bungie jumping offer a fun and exhilarating day out. If adventure isn’t your thing and you just need time to kick back and relax, there are plenty of experiences on offer. Treat yourself to some boutique shopping and be sure to experience the excellent local food and wine. 

A popular holiday spot at any time of the year, Queenstown is renowned for its four distinctive seasons. Winter brings crisp, blue-sky days, spring retains the snow but blooms into longer, warmer days, summer offers sunshine and long twilights, and autumn a burst of brilliant red and gold. Over the years, the town has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping. 

Read more : A local’s guide to 2 days in Queenstown

New Zealand Itinerary Day 10: Lake Wanaka Adventures

45 kilometres long and covering 193 square kilometres, the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are perfect for jetboaters, sailors and kayakers. Nestled below towering mountains, Wanaka is the most tranquilly set of the South Island lakes and is much more than a winter destination. Year round activities include fishing, hiking, canyoning, climbing and skydiving. 

Excavated by massive glaciers more than 10,000 years ago, Lakes Wanaka and Hawea lie side by side. Lake Wanaka is the source of New Zealand’s largest river, the Clutha. Lake Hawea feeds into the Hawea River, which joins the Clutha at Albert Town. Ringed by pebbly beaches and with magnificent views to the surrounding peaks, both lakes offer a variety of adventures, especially during the long, hot months of summer.

Things to do in Wanaka (and nearby)

Wanaka River Journeys – Jet boat and wilderness walk : Enjoy an exciting half day Jet Boating adventure beneath the spectacular scenery of Glaciers & lots of Lord of the Rings film locations. You’ll head into into Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. You’ll shoot down shallow braids, drift into turns and experience some thrilling spins as local guides tell you about this history and nature here. After the ride, you have a 50-minute walk through remote moss covered forest, waterfalls and glacier fed streams. 

Wild Wire: For anyone not interested in the jet boat and walk, consider joining in on the highest waterfall via ferrata in the world.

Choose from 1 of 3 climbs: The easiest climb “Go Wild” is one of those great Wanaka activities that’s fun and easy to do with the family, the Intermediate climb “Wild Thing” is perfect for those looking for a bit more adventure and the advanced climb “Lord of the Rungs” is the highest waterfall via ferrata in the world and includes a return via helicopter and is definitely one of the most spectacular things to do in New Zealand.

Mt. Aspiring National Park: Stretch your legs in this beautiful wilderness of native forests, towering mountains and river valleys. Named for Mt Aspiring, one of New Zealand’s highest peaks, the park is a veritable dreamland and hiker’s paradise. You have a host of short walks concentrated at the end of the park’s access roads. Shorter walks include the Routeburn Nature Walk, Haast Pass Summit, Lake Sylvan near the lower dart River and the Blue Pools Walk. You also have longer hikes with options to traverse mountain saddles; the Dart/Rees River circuit, Greenstone/Caples and the Wilkin Valley tracks are a few options. In summer, it’s possible to walk from one valley to another over spectacular mountain passes. 

Hook Restaurant – Lake to plate fishing/dining experience: For a dinner experience a bit different from the norm; catch a Chinook salmon from their spring-fed fishing lakes then relax or explore while the team prepares it for you! This is the Hook experience – “from lake to plate”.

Puzzling World : If you’re visiting New Zealand with children or teens, be sure to plan a few hours at Puzzling World. It has an indoor museum full of engaging optical illusions and puzzles along with an enormous outdoor maze.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 11: Wanaka – Central Otago – Te Anau

Stay 2 nights in Te Anau

Driving distance 3hrs (without stops)

Central Otago is the home of New Zealand Pinot noir and you have countless options for wine tasting and touring. The town of Cromwell was established by gold miners, but now its treasure is stone fruit.

Today, by late afternoon you’ll reach Te Anau. Lake Te Anau is the largest of the southern glacial lakes, covering an area of 344 square kilometres. The main body of the lake runs north-south and three large fjords reach out from its western side – these arms are called North Fjord, Middle Fjord and South Fjord.

Where to stay in Te Anau

Te Anau is a compact town with many walkable restaurants and a lovely waterfront. It’s nice to stay in town if possible to walk, but even if not it’s easy to navigate by car as well.

• Edgewater Model – great lakeside location and plenty of options to suit all needs
• ASURE Explorer Motel & Apartments – walking distance to most of Te Anau, while also providing spacious accommodations and pretty grounds
• Holiday home for active groups – sleeps up to 11 people in a cluster of cottages, also includes 6 bikes (with helmets) and 2 kayaks (with life jackets)

Things to do in Central Otago and Te Anau

Oxbow Adventure Co – Ultimate Off Road Ride and Jet Sprint Boat Ride : Enjoy a ride on totally custom-built 4WD, 4-wheel-steer off-roaders. The off-roader ride is one of Queenstown’s most unique adventure experiences, though definitely not for the fainthearted. 

Arrowtown : Arrowtown is a living historic settlement. Wander the tree-lined streets of restored cottages and explore gold mining sites. This is one of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, and sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush. The settlement grew quickly as pioneers constructed cottages, shops, hotels and churches, more than 60 of which can still be seen today.

A special highlight is the Chinese settlement at the edge of the river. Built by Chinese miners from 1868, this area of restored shelters and buildings paints a picture of earlier times. In April and May Arrowtown ignites with colour as deciduous trees prepare for winter. A festival is held in the last week of April to celebrate the gorgeous seasonal colours. 

Te Anau: This is the perfect town to base yourself in to visit Milford Sound. Nestled on the edge of a lake, you have lots of accommodation options. Te Anau is the main visitor base for the glacier-carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park. Do be aware that it’s best to book accommodation ahead in the busy months of January, February and March. In town, you have loads of restaurant options dishing up local fare like venison, lobster and all manner of seafood. 

At the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre you can make plans to walk the Milford, Routeburn, or Kepler Tracks. Apart from hiking, popular local activities include scenic flights, lake cruising, fishing, kayaking and exploring the Te Anau Glowworm caves – this tour is a great choice if you didn’t get to visit the Waitomo cave and it includes a lovely boat ride across Lake Te Anau. There’s also a bird sanctuary that specializes in native birds.

New Zealand Itinerary Day 12: Fiordland National Park

One of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand; the power of Fiordland’s scenery is seriously impressive. Ancient rainforest clings impossibly to the mountains; waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters into massive fiords; and shimmering lakes and granite peaks look the same today as they did a thousand years ago. The fourteen fiords that ringe this south-west corner of the South Island were 100,000 years in the making, with the final details added during the most recent ice age just 10,000 years ago. On all sides of the fiords, spectacular waterfalls tumble incessantly as the region’s plentiful rainfall finds its way to the sea.

Things to do in Fiordland Park

Day trip to Milford Sound: Situated on the west coast of the South Island, Milford Sound is a fusion of spectacular natural features. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 1000 feet. If you’re lucky to arrive after heavy rainfall (a common occurrence here!), the waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect. Boat cruises during the day are an excellent way to experience the Sound. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you might also like to head out sea kayaking, diving or flightseeing. If you’re interested in learning more about local marine life, you can visit the underwater observatory at Harrison Cove.

Mirror Lakes: One of the Milford Road highlights, the Mirror Lakes, are world-famous for their beauty and the way they reflect their surrounding scenery. Stunningly scenic, they provide breathtaking reflections of the Earl mountain ranges on a calm day. While thousands of tourists visit the Mirror Lakes every year searching for the perfect photo op, they’re also habitats for many animals, including some of New Zealand’s rarest birds. Our smallest duck, the scaup or pāpango, lives in the Mirror Lakes and other Eglinton Valley waterways, as do the grey duck or pārera. Under the water, you’ll find long-finned native eels and brown and rainbow trout.

Southern Discoveries – Nature Cruise of Milford Sound : Pack your camera and join expert nature guides on a special cruise that takes you closer to the natural beauty of Milford Sound. These are smaller boats which let you get close enough to see basking seals, dolphins, or, if you’re lucky, a rare Fiordland crested penguin. If Southern Discoveries is booked or doesn’t match your schedule, the RealNZ Milford Sound cruise is excellent and covers much the same route.

Roscos Milford Sound Kayaks : If you feel like a more active day, consider an organized kayaking trip! This trip takes you on a big loop of Milford Sound, meaning you get to take in all the highlights. 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 13: Glenorchy to Queenstown

Stay 1 night in Queenstown, or if your return flight is late on day 14 you can instead bump Glenorchy to day 11 as a day trip from Queenstown and extend your stay there by one night. You’d then stay the last two nights of your trip in Te Anau and drive directly to the Queenstown airport (2 hours). That may be an easier option for those who don’t want to unpack and repack an extra time.

Enjoy your last full day in New Zealand exploring the area of Glenorchy before you head back for another night in Queenstown. 

Things to do in Glenorchy

Glenorchy: Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu & is the gateway to hiking trails and “Middleearth” magic. Set against a background of native beech forest and towering mountain ranges, it is rather awe-inspiring, even for those of us who have seen it countless times. Glenorchy’s spectacular landscapes have become a prime location for film scouts, and many scenes from The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Narnia movies were filmed here.

Queenstown: We’ve already been over many of the options for things to do in Queenstown on Day 9. Today’s your chance to do anything you didn’t have time for then! 

New Zealand Itinerary Day 14: Depart New Zealand

After 13 busy days it’s time to head home or on to your next destination. You’ll have seen and experienced some of the best that New Zealand has to offer, but there’s still plenty left to discover on your next trip!

Want more help planning your New Zealand travel itinerary? Be sure to reach out to Veronika for her expertise.

PS – Be sure to grab one last Fergburger on your way to the airport!

About Veronika

Veronika has done a little bit of everything in New Zealand tourism over the past 20 years. For a decade she worked as a driver-guide, exploring every corner of the country. Since then, she’s settled down a bit and has spent the last 10 years running her own boutique tour agency which specializes in fully custom trips, including many like this New Zealand 14 day itinerary. 

With more than twenty years of travel experience and an understanding of the subtle nuances of traveling in this diverse country, she hopes to give travelers the gift of truly exploring and immersing themselves in New Zealand. She’s looking forward to helping you plan an unforgettable visit to her little corner of the world!

Planning your New Zealand 2 week itinerary

Are you getting ready for an epic New Zealand itinerary of 2 weeks? Don’t miss these articles to help you plan:

• 10 things to know before you visit New Zealand
• A Local’s Guide to 2 Days in Queenstown
• Bike the Otago Central Rail Trail
• The best things to do in Tasman, New Zealand for outdoor lovers
• Beautiful pictures of New Zealand’s North Island beaches
• Up close with Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village
• Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga: Exploring the beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

What to read next

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

The Ultimate 3 Week New Zealand Itinerary

Last Updated March 27, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » The Ultimate 3 Week New Zealand Itinerary

Bold claim I know, but in a country where it’s almost impossible not to have the Lord of the Rings soundtrack play as you’re going there and back again, you’ll instantly fall in love with the jaw-dropping landscapes, heart-pumping adrenaline, never-ending ecological playground, and impossibly cute mascot, the Kiwi.  It’s a paradise that you have to experience for yourself and that’s where I come in.

Planning for a trip to New Zealand is no easy task and as I was planning my own trip, I was overwhelmed with all the choices and places that we could go.  To pass down all the knowledge that I’ve learned from my experiences, this travel guide is meant to get down to the details of what you need to know to plan your own Middle-Earth-sized 3 week New Zealand itinerary .

• 3 Week New Zealand Itinerary Highlights

New Zealand is a vast, dynamic, yet compact country which makes it easy to explore and see a ton.  That said, you still need time to see it properly which is why this itinerary is perfect.  You get to see almost everything you want to without having to do any real double backs.

Here were my top 5 highlights of New Zealand:

• Black Water Rafting
• Milford Sound
• Flying Kiwi

Curious where our favourite place we stayed was?  More on that below but I highly recommend  Arthur Street B&B in Whitianga of the Coromandel Peninsula

Read more about New Zealand

• What To Pack For New Zealand
• Top 5 Things To Do From Queenstown
• Flying Kiwi New Zealand Tour

How to get the best deals in travel

• Hottest deals  – Bookmark the  travel deals page .
• Car rentals  – stop getting ripped off and  learn about car rental coupon codes .
• Hotels  – Use  corporate codes  or get  Genius 2 tier  with Booking.
• Flights  – Have you ever heard of the  “Everywhere” feature ?
• Insurance  – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about  where to buy the best travel insurance .
• In This Article

Feel free to jump around!

Trip Planning Map

Day 1 – goodbye sydney, hello queenstown, day 2 – horseback riding in glenorchy, day 3 – milford sound, day 4 – thrills in queenstown, day 5 – the start of the reverse traverse, day 6 to 17 – flying kiwi, day 18 – hot water beach, day 19 – cathedral cove, day 20 – tongariro crossing, day 21 – hobbiton, the trip costs, what we missed, the whole experience, travel resources for your next trip, your 3 week new zealand itinerary.

If you want to see the country properly, you need at least 3 weeks , if not more.  This New Zealand itinerary was crafted from a trip that came up quite last minute between the months of October and November which landed in the middle of the Spring season.  Having been to the country before, I knew that I wanted to put something together that was more thorough than the first time around which meant trying to slow things down a little to see more.

Before we begin, make sure to read all of the basics in the Comprehensive New Zealand Travel Guide .  Inside you’ll find the kind of things you need to know when you start planning your very own trip including tips, coupon codes, and travel hacks.

This is a detailed driving route and key highlights custom map that I created for this itinerary.  One thing you’ll notice that the Flying Kiwi portion of the trip is left basic as you can check out their tour itinerary for the full details for the sake of simplicity.

Tip: View the New Zealand planning map in full screen and create a copy for yourself.  Make tweaks for your own trip and in Google Maps, you’ll be able to view it by going into the menu, selecting “My Places” and the “Maps” tab.

Back to the top

There’s a lot of ways to start your journey through New Zealand but with efficiency in mind and to make the most of the 3 weeks, I knew that this itinerary had to be a one-way route from the South to the North Island or vice versa.  Ultimately, logistically, things made more sense to start in Queenstown because of flights and spots open on Flying Kiwi’s Reverse Traverse .

What you’ll love about this is that Queenstown in the South Island is a really awesome spot to start off in and get acclimated.  It’s a place where you’re going to want to base yourself at least for a couple of days and that means it won’t be go-go-go right from the beginning.  Out of all cities in New Zealand, it’s also my favourite so you’re in good hands.

Since direct flights into Queenstown aren’t likely, you’ll be likely coming in from somewhere like Sydney such as I did or transit via Auckland.  Wherever you come from, get ready for one of the most scenic landings you’ll ever have.  On approach you’ll see the fjords, giant snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes, and fields dotted with the white wool of sheep.

The Queenstown airport is small but really easy to navigate and your first step once you get your bags is to grab your car rental.  If you followed my recommendation by booking with Snap ( formerly Hitch ), head over to the courtesy phone beside the Avis counter and let them know you’re here.  A van will come around the shuttle pick up loop and you’ll be set up with your eco-box car in a jiffy at their off-site office.  First thing though is to remember that you’ll be driving on the left side of the road so take some time to get used to that and think twice at intersections.

Your first day mainly consists of getting settled in and then exploring the downtown streets of Queenstown so take it as time to get to know the city and walk everywhere.  The stores may close early but a bunch of souvenir shops stay open a little later.

Finish off the night by grabbing dinner at the quirky and cozy Italian restaurant tucked in the corner of an alleyway named Cow Restaurant .  From its namesake, you learn that this used to be an old cow milking shed.  Inside you’ll find a ton of memorabilia from Queen Victoria period.  The pizzas are the best item on the menu hands down and might I add very large.  The best bang-for-buck is the large 14-inch size.

What you’ll see:

• Downtown Queenstown

Where you’ll eat:

• Cow Restaurant

Where to stay:

We never would’ve thought we’d be able to find something like this on Booking.com but it really goes to show you how they’ve stepped up their guesthouse game.

WE STAYED HERE

CLOSEBURN HOLIDAY HOUSE

While not in downtown Queenstown, this converted upscale cottage home is set with the perfect view of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.  There’s an on-site maid which is why everything is so ridiculously clean.  Bonus that it includes laundry facilities.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

GREAT ALTERNATIVE

QUEENSTOWN LAKEVIEW HOLIDAY PARK

While you’d think a holiday park is mainly for campervans and RV’s, they actually have private lodges available that are fully equipped.  They’re located in a great spot, walkable to the downtown, and quite luxurious.

TIP:  Parking in Queenstown can be tricky but the best free street parking we found was on Brecon Street.  This spot is good for 240 minutes (4 hours) of free parking (8AM – 6PM, 7 days a week).  In the middle of the day, spots get filled up really quickly but the evenings seemed to be easy.

Your first full day starts with an early morning drive through the stunning drive to the town of Glenorchy.  The drive alone is an attraction on its own so make sure you account for a lot of stops along the way.  The moody morning fog and rising sun with the mountains as the backdrop make for a dramatic scene as the road skirts the pristine shores of the lake.

The best way to take in the landscape around Glenorchy is neither on foot or by car.  It’s by horse and that’s why the early morning start is needed.  The check-in time at the Dart Stables office in Glenorchy is at 7:50AM.  Once you’re all geared up, a shuttle will take you to the location of the stables near the foothills of Mount Alfred.  What makes the 2-hour River Wild experience such a treat is that you’re able to comfortably ride around the backcountry of the Dart Valley in a small group.  Their guide are extremely knowledgeable and will tell you all about the different locations used by films such as Lord of the Rings.

When you’re done, you’ll be famished so head into the small and charming town of Glenorchy which has a fantastic little cafe called The Trading Post which is also next to the beach and wharf which are all worth a walk to.

TIP:  If you have a drone, this is THE place to fly it so make sure you’re all charged up when you get here.

Hit the road again but before you leave Glenorchy, take the drive into Paradise .  Now there is an awesome 4WD Lord of the Rings Tour which heads in there and is probably more comprehensive but if you have your own car, you can easily drive the gravel road yourself.  You’ll see road signs pointing towards Paradise (pun intended) and all you have to do is follow that one way road in.  If you take a look at the map , you’ll see roughly the spot that we drove to and turned back.   This is the area where X-Men: Origins and Lord of the Rings/Hobbit scenes (Beorn’s house, final fight in the forest in Fellowship of the Ring, Isengard) were filmed.

Gauge your time as you’ll need to make a 3 hour drive to Te Anau .  This is another drive that will be filled with many scenic stops.  Ideally you’ll want to make this drive with the sun still up as well.

When it comes to Te Anau, there isn’t too much to do here but if you are looking to do something to close out the night, there’s a fun little zip-line that they’ve built into Lions Park and sunset over Lake Te Anau from the beach is also quite pretty.

Before calling it a night, make sure to pick up food and snack supplies for Milford Sound.  There’s a Four Square in the town centre where you can grab everything from breakfast food, sandwiches, drinks, granola bars, chocolate, and even hot dinner if you’d prefer to do your own thing

MUST-DO:  Fill up your tank.  Do not make the same mistake we did where we ran out of fuel when we got to Milford Sound and that whole debacle.

• Glenorchy town & wharf
• Te Anau – Lions Park and Lake Anau

What you’ll do:

• Dart River Adventures – River Wild

• Lunch – The Trading Post – Awesome little cafe with delicious croissant sandwiches and carrot cake to die for.
• Dinner – Bailiez Cafe – Run-of-the-mill restaurant with an affordable special menu.  Choices are limited in Te Anau and prices quite high for what you get.

YHA TE ANAU

I’ve stayed here twice and each time I’ve been very happy with its balance of location, price, comfort, and availability of private en-suite rooms.  It’s a hostel but it’s a good option for anyone travelling through Te Anau.

EXPLORER MOTEL & APARTMENTS

If you’re looking for a property that’s not a hostel but at a similar price to the YHA, this one is a great alternative that also offers a barbecue area, free parking and free Wi-Fi access.

As I mention in the Top 5 things to do from Queenstown , one of the jewels of the New Zealand is its largest park, Fjordland National Park .  Deep in the park is the indigo blue waters, flanking mountains, and thunderous waterfalls of Milford Sound.  Carved by glaciers millions of years ago, this is a sight you have to see in person and one of those places that if you missed, you’d have serious FOMO (fear or missing out).

The main reason to split up your time in Queenstown with a stay in Te Anau is to maximize the time you can explore the park.  The issue I have with day trips is that you end up wasting too much time on the road in a single day.

My recommendation is to book the first cruise of the day with Southern Discoveries .  There’s a couple of good reasons for this:

• Minimal traffic on the drive to Te Anau including Homer Tunnel
• The first cruise is typically discounted and it comes with a hearty breakfast buffet
• The morning light at Milford Sound is stunning and much better than the harsh light that you get mid-day.

The drive from Te Anau is only 1 hour 45 minutes but account for 2.5 hours as you’ll be tempted to stop A LOT especially once you enter Fjordland National Park.  Just remember that you’ll be taking the road back out.

TIP:  You won’t have any data the whole day so make sure you’ve made everything available offline on your phone including navigation.  This is where something like maps.me ( iOS / Android ) comes in handy.  If there’s a photo stop you have to skip because of time, just star it and come back on your way out. I talk about how I use maps.me as an offline map tool .

Everyone parks in the same giant lot once you get to Milford Sound and from there you walk over to the cruise terminal where all ships embarks from.  Simply show your voucher and you’ll be given the passes you need to board.

The cruise is the best way to see the entirety of Milford Sound starting from the terminal, out into the open waters of the Tasman Sea and then back in.  If you booked the cruise and kayak option, you’ll be able to get off at the Discovery Centre which will give you the opportunity to go down to the underwater observatory to see the very rare black coral, followed by a 1 hour kayaking session in Harrison Cove .  Personally, this is a great combination because you get to take your time to see the grand scale of Milford Sound from the boat and then experience it in a completely different way on the water and up close to the walls of the fjord.

TIP: We found that things are a little rushed when your kayaking session starts. When you’re done at the underwater observatory, ask the staff if you can get geared up earlier so there’s a bit more buffer time.

Back at the terminal, decide whether you’re interested in the Bowen Falls Track  (NZ$10 – adult, NZ$5 – child) which you can pay for at a kiosk beside the coffee and vending machines.  Alternatively, you can buy it from your cruise operator.  Tickets are required because a short boat ride is required.  When we were there, we decided to skip it because we didn’t know whether it was worth it or not but this is a short track to Lady Bowen Falls that only re-opened in 2018 after being closed for 15 years .  It’s a shame that it isn’t well promoted but if you’re interested definitely inquire about it.

TIP: Depending on the tide, I encourage you to head out from the parking lot and towards that iconic view of Mitre Peak.  At low-tide you can walk pretty far out and has pretty awesome reflections.

Once you leave Milford Sound, it’s up to you how much more you want to see.  There are a ton of photo spots but the main ones to look at for are The Chasm and Humboldt Falls .  The Chasm is right off the road so it’s easy to get to.  Humboldt Falls requires you to turn off onto the Hollyford Track at the Marion Corner.  From there, it’s a very long 4 hour drive back to Queenstown.

TIP: Gunn’s Camp on Hollyford Road carries emergency fuel if you need it.  The mistake we made was realizing we didn’t have enough so we turned back to Milford Sound only to realize that their machine was broken which left us stranded.

Depending on what time you get back into town, you can either have a sit-down dinner or pick up something on the way back.  Because of our gas issues in Milford Sound, we had to abandon our original plan to have some budget Thai food and just munched on the remainder of our snack food.

• Bowen Falls Track
• Hollyford Track’s Humboldt Falls
• Southern Discoveries cruise & kayak
• Lunch – Packed with supplies from Te Anau
• Dinner – Bronze Elephant Thai

Looking or something affordable in the city, we ended up with a budget hostel.

HIPPO LODGE BACKPACKERS

I’ll be honest, not exactly our favourite property especially since we were booked here for 2 nights but you get what you pay for.  We found that most people staying here were international employees and so really felt more like a university dorm than anything else. Luckily they have free parking.

MI-PAD SMART HOTEL

Centrally located hotel that isn’t going to run you through roof.  As a new hotel, everything is modern and extremely comfortable.  On top of that, they have an incredible rooftop patio that offers spectacular views since it’s on a hill and facing the lake.

After a couple of days on the road, it’s finally time to enjoy everything that Queenstown has to offer.  Yes, over the years it’s become even more touristy with the influx of Chinese tour buses, and stores like Louis Vuitton taking over (I know…why???) but there’s still a lot of charm to this town.  I liken Queenstown to a really laid back ski village like Park City in Utah.

There’s an overall buzz and excitement to the city whether it’s from people getting psyched for an upcoming adventure activity, going on a fancy night out, or shopping till something drops.

Instead of a flat white to start your day, head straight to Shotover Canyon for what has to be the most ridiculous boat ride known to man.  It’s called Shotover Jet and it’s an action packed experience that has you barreling through the canyon and boulders at unreal speeds, and pulling 360 degree spins that’s something out of a James Bond stunt team.  The only thing you can do is hold on to the metal bar in front of you dearly and screen at the top of your lungs.

TIP:  Read about the whole experience as part of the best things to do in Queenstown .

Head back into town and spend the rest of the day on foot.  There are plenty of stores to browse around.  This is also a good chance to buy any last minute supplies you might need before you hit the road again.  For example, if you forgot waterproof pants or need an extra layer, a store like Mountain Warehouse has reasonably priced gear.

When you’re hungry, it’s time to finally go to my favourite burger place in the world – Fergburger .  New Zealand is probably the last place you’d think would have legendary burgers but this is it.  There’s a reason why the line up goes out the door and why they’re open 21 hours a day.  My recommendation is to either try to Chief Piggum or the Ferg Deluxe.  Also, the hand-cut pepper & squid is a new revelation from this recent trip.  Wasabi mayo will change your life!

TIP:  To avoid the lines, call in to make your order ( full menu ).  That way, all you have to do is pick up your food at the window when it’s ready.

To round this out, make a reservation at the Body Sanctum Spa for a little bit of relaxation therapy.  Another popular spot that is impossible to book is Onsen Hot Pools .  From their private pools, you get pretty incredible open views of the Queenstown landscape.  If you’re keen on doing this, make sure to book at least 4 months ahead of time.

For dinner, if you’re up for a lighter and healthier, grab some food at Rehab which has a great selection of salads and cleansing juices.

With Flying Kiwi starting the next day, the last thing you’ll have to do is return your car to avoid having to deal with it tomorrow.  This part gets a little bit complicated because you’ll drive your car back to the airport for the return but will then need a way back into the city.  If you’ve read our Queenstown guide , you’ll know that taking the bus is not cost effective at all so call an Uber and get him/her to pick you up closer to the airport since they’re not allowed inside.

This is also probably a good night to do laundry.

• Shotover Jet
• Body Sanctum Spa or Onsen Hot Pools
• Lunch – Fergburger
• Dinner – Rehab (sadly permanently closed now)
• Same location as the previous day

With the Queenstown leg coming to a close, there isn’t much time to do anything substantial for this day since the Flying Kiwi pick up is at 2:30PM.  As a result, take your time, gather your bags, check-out, and head into the downtown.

The only challenge you’ll have is you’re going to be travelling around with your bags.  If you’d like to walk around town without them, you’ll need to go to the Baggage Storage by Smarte Carte inside the O’Connells Shopping Centre (NZ$13 per day for small items and $16 per day for large items).

If you’re hungry, there’s an excellent cafe named Vudu Cafe & Larder .  While you’re there, make sure to grab a flat white, avocado toast, and ginger crunch bar.  They’re also known for their vegan food if you have any dietary restrictions.

• Lunch – Vudu Cafe & Larder
• See Flying Kiwi Reverse Traverse itinerary

Heads up about Flying Kiwi

If you gone over to the Flying Kiwi Reverse Traverse Review , you’ll see that they’ve been acquired by Stray. They’re now back and running but they no longer offer the Reverse Traverse.

The good news is that much of the 14 day Reverse Traverse can be replicated on your own if you have a rental car.

Since the Reverse Traverse tour isn’t published anymore, we’ll do a quick breakdown of what days 5 – 18 should look like:

• Day 5 – Queenstown to Boundary Creek – Leaving Queenstown, you’ll largely be driving on this day to get your first campsite. Stop at one of the local farmer’s markets in Cromwell along the way. Stay at the Makarora Rest Station.
• Day 6 – Boundary Creek to Fox Glacier – Visit Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls, Ship Creek, try whitebait in Haast. Stay at Fox Josef Top 10 Holiday Park cabin.
• Day 7 – Fox Glacier to Okarito – Fox Glacier climb/heli-hike (weather dependent), Lake Matheson hike, spring bridge over Lake Matheson, Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, camp at Okarito Beach.
• Day 8 – Okarito – Punakaiki – Sunrise on Okarito Trig Walk, explore Hokitika (greenstone stores, pie, and National Kiwi Centre & Aquarium), enjoy the west coast drive towards Punakaiki, sunset at Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.
• Day 9 – Punakaiki to Marahau – Drive through Buller Gorge, pitstop at Berlins Cafe & Bar, Skydive Abel Tasman.
• Day 10, 11 – Abel Tasman – 2 day Ocean and Earth kayaking + hiking tour with Marahau Sea Kayaks including camping at Anchorage campsite. Final day camping at Old Macdonalds Farm.
• Day 12 – Marahau to Wellington – Stop in Nelson to grab a bite at Deville and walk around town before a wine tour in Marlborough (Saint Clair Family Estate) before arriving in Picton to take the Interislander ferry over to Wellington. Stay at a hgotel in Wellington.
• Day 13 – Wellington to New Plymouth – Start the day going to Weta Workshop’s “The Weta Cave” before hitting the road again with stops in Otaki, views of Mount Taranaki along the way, and setting up camp at Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park and then head out to the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge for sunset.
• Day 14 – New Plymouth to Auckland – Waitomo to do the Legendary Black Water Rafting and drive into Auckland. Stay at the Jucy Snooze Auckland. Have dinner at The Lula Inn.
• Day 15 – Auckland to Paihia – Start with breakfast at Shaky Isles in Auckland. Beach time in Urititi, stop in Kawakawa, Haruru Falls (including mangrove hike on Waitangi Trail). Camp in Paihia.
• Day 16 – Paihia Diving – Scuba diving with Paihia Dive to see the Rainbow Warrior wreck and Seal Bay.
• Day 17 – Paihia to Orewa – Sandboarding in Hokianga, Tane Mahuta Walk (see giant kauri tree), lunch in Dargaville. Camp at Orewa Beach Holiday Park.
• Day 18 – Orewa to Auckland – Final stretch back to Auckland which the next section picks up.

We put together a pretty cool montage of behind the scenes stories we shared from our entire trip so make sure you watch that!

In retrospect, this was a really cool hybrid road trip itinerary because we got to spend 2/3 of the trip guided by experts and travelling with new friends that we met on Flying Kiwi.  Their route is really well curated and gave us a chance to do much of what we wanted to see including highlights such as The Legendary Black Water Rafting , skydiving in the Abel Tasman, diving in the Bay of Islands , and our kayak and hiking combo in the Abel Tasman.

On the last day of your Flying Kiwi adventure tour, you’ll be returning back to Auckland.  After saying a fond farewell to your new travelling mates, you will be on your own again.  While it’ll be tempted to stay in the city for the day, the truth is that your time is better spent elsewhere (sorry Auckland!)

Considered to be off-the-path and often missed in most New Zealand itineraries is somewhere called the Coromandel peninsula which sits almost parallel to Auckland but on the East coast.  The landscape changes dramatically here and is a mix of gentle beaches, rugged coves, forest-filled mountains, and a haven for local vacation-goers.

Start off by grabbing your rental car and again I recommend Hitch as they have hands-down the cheapest rate.  Just keep in mind, their cars are quite outdated.  Like in Queenstown, their offices are off-site so wait for their shuttle in the designated area of the terminal.

TIP:  Need a cheap way to get from the city to the airport?  Ride the SkyBus Auckland City Express which has several pick up points downtown, runs 24 hours a day everyday, and should take less than 45 minutes to get to the airport.  Book your tickets online to get a cheaper rate (NZ$17.50 one-way for an adult).  It’s cheaper than a taxi/Uber for sure.

Hit the road and set your GPS to Whitianga.  If you’re a car enthusiast, you’re going to love the roads especially once you get into the mountains and you get to drive around the switchback windy and scenic roads that take you through Coromandel Forest Park .

Along the way, I recommend stopping at  Tairua which is a great pitstop to grab fresh fruit frozen ice cream and perhaps even fly the drone if you have one.

Whitianga is the closest large city which is why you’re headed that way as there are a number of good accommodation and dining options there.  When you get there, drop off your bags, settle in, and get ready to head out.   If you’re staying at a B&B like ours, they’ll have buckets and shovels available so make sure to load them into the car.

TIP:  How you plan out the rest of your afternoon or evening will solely depend on the tides at Hot Water Beach . When we were there, it happened to be at 5PM.  The best time to be at the beach is anytime in the +/- 2 hours range (3PM to 7PM in our case).  Factoring in the 30 minute drive from Whitianga and sunset time, you will either only have time to do Hot Water Beach or both Cathedral Cove and the beach.

If you don’t want to rush things, I’d recommend just doing Hot Water Beach since it’s not the kind of thing you can jump in and out and you want to make sure you have enough time to do grab dinner.

Hot Water Beach highlights an incredible phenomenon where volcanic activity well below the surface heats up an underwater river and bubbles to the surface at low tide.  Armed with a spade to dig up your own personal pool and bucket to bring cold water from the sea to cool the water down, this is the most outrageous way to spa that I’ve ever experienced but you’ll love it because you’re forced to get your hands dirty.  It’s a cross between treasure hunting and frantic digging and re-digging to maintain your own spa pool in the sand.  It’s hard to describe but once you get there, just look for the crowd of people and you’ll know what to do.  Budget 2 hours here.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Location:   From the main car park, cross the stream and the good places to dig are just north of the first giant boulder and before the rocks that stick out in the water.  In most cases, just follow the crowd.

Low Tide:  Check for low tide before going

• There are 3 main lots:  The Main Beach carpark (free), Te Waiwai carpark (free) and the Main Store carpark (paid)
• You can also pay for parking at Hotties Cafe, Hot Waves Cafe and the Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
• If the free lots are filled, look out for open spots along Pye Place road before or after the Main Beach carpark

What to bring:

• Spade and bucket – You can rent them at the beach if your accommodations don’t have them to borrow
• Shower gel, shampoo and conditioner
• For the best experience, show up 1 hour before low tide or right at low tide.  If you show up later, the beach will be littered with holes and there won’t be any opportunities to dig up a fresh hole since they’ll already be taken.  Showing up earlier will also have the advantage of finding free parking
• Instead of renting a spade and bucket, just ask to borrow one from someone else on the beach
• Use the bathroom at the change rooms as there are no facilities by the beach
• The easiest way to tell if there’s hot water underneath is to use your spade once and then dig your feet in to feel the temperature.  If it’s cool, there’s no point in digging further and move onto another spot
• Where can you put your bags? – I’d recommend keeping your valuables in the car as there’s you’ll have to put faith that nobody will take your things.  Most people will put their bags on or near the mound of boulders inland from the beach.  I recommend putting your things close to others and cover your things with your towel
• Where can I change?  I’d recommend putting your swim wear on in the car or at your hotel/B&B ahead of time.  When you come out of the beach, there’s a new change room facility which is well maintained and clean
• Where can I shower?  There are open showers just outside the change facility to rinse your feet and wash up

Read the reviews

When you’re done, drive back to Whitianga and have the best seafood of your trip at a restaurant called Squids .

• Hot Water Beach
• Lunch –  No specific recommendation as we snacked in the car but if you’re hungry, I recommend eating near Auckland because there is not much once you head out
• Dinner – Squids Bar & Grill (unfortunately permanently closed)

ARTHUR STREET B&B

Friendly hosts, fully-stocked rooms (including breakfast items), easy parking, and extremely comfortable, and available spade/bucket makes this a favourite of ours from our trip to New Zealand.

WHITIANGA B&B

An adult-only accommodation that’s extremely well rated and affordable.  Like Arthur Street B&B, there’s really no need to look at hostels because the prices are comparable and you don’t have to deal with shared bathrooms.

This naturally formed stone archway between two secluded coves in the Coromandel Peninsula should not be missed.  Expect stunning views at Cathedral Cove as this easy hike hugs along the coast, dramatic cliffs, pristine waters, and lush forests.

Start your day early by heading out to Hahei Beach .  While you could take the shuttle to the start of the hike trail, I recommend parking right by the beach itself and make the gentle ascent that only adds an extra 20 minutes.

One thing that you’ll immediately notice about the hike here is that it’s very well-paved and which makes it very easy and stroller-friendly.  Along the way, you’ll also have a few opportunities to do a few side hikes to additional coves and lookout points.

At the end of the trail that takes no more than 50 minutes from the beach, you’ll descend down into the the cathedral-like arch and the twin beaches on each side of the arch.

Hours:   No official hours

More info:    Website

• The parking lot at Hahei beach is free
• The lot at the start of the trail is closed from October 1 – April 30 and NZ$15 for 4 hours from May 1 to September 30 (quite limited)
• There is private parking from house owners on the road up to the top car park
• Hahei Visitor car park (on the right as you enter Hahei) is free and from there you can take a shuttle to take you to the top (NZ$5 return for adults, NZ$3 return for children, and NZ$10 for 2 adults and 2 children.  You can pay the driver by cash, use the machine, or pay online .
• Swimwear and towel if you plan on swimming at the beach
• Are there change rooms? – No there aren’t any facilities here
• Are there stairs?   A majority of the trail is smooth paved however steps are required when making your way down and up from Cathedral Cove.  There are also stairs on the beach walk up to the start of the trail

Grab lunch in Hahei as you’ll then need to make the long drive down to Taupo which will take 3.5 hours.  In Hahei, there’s the one plaza that has all o the food.  Coastal Co-Op has pretty awesome pizza and ice cream.

When you finally make it to Taupo , you’ll only have time to check out Huka Falls . Here you can witness the true power of 220,000 litres of water barrelling down a narrow passageway with ferocity.  The parking lot is only minutes away from the main bridge and with only a few lookout points, you can easily complete your visit in 10-15 minutes.

TIP:  The gates close at 5:30PM in the winter and 6:30PM in the summer.

With the big hike coming up the next day, take time to buy supplies as you’ll need to prepare your own lunch.  For the best prices, go to the Pak’N’Save . What we did was buy a bag of croissants, slices of cheese, and ham with extra water as well.

Sleep early because the pick up tomorrow is really early.

• Cathedral Cove
• Cathedral Cove Walk
• Coffee – Hahei Beach Cafe  (they have a bathroom)
• Lunch –  Coastal Co-Op
• Dinner – Mole & Chicken

RAINBOW LODGE BACKPACKERS

A popular hostel in Taupo that is very affordable.  The location is convenient as you’re walking distance to the Pak’N’Save and the restaurants by the lake.  A lively place with a large kitchen and open lounge.  Take advantage of their $5 burger nights.

HILTON LAKE TAUPO

One of the few Hilton properties in New Zealand.  A first-class hotel with a free pool, gym, and on-site Bistro Lago Restaurant by chef Gareth Stewart.   Rooms are spacious and luxurious.

Dubbed the “hike through Mordor”, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing has grown to international fame thanks to Lord of the Rings.  It’s a track that takes you through an other-worldly volcanic landscape, vivid Emerald Lakes, mysteriously red crater, and switchback plains, and ethereal jungle forest.  At 19.4km long, it’s also described as the best one day hike in New Zealand and I have to agree.

The trek is an incredible experience because it takes you through such a dynamic change of landscapes.  It truly gives you an appreciation of the awe-inspiring power of mother nature at work at its rawest form. That said, it’s still one hell of a work out and solid preparation is critical.

To do the hike, you need to reserve your spot at Tongariro Expeditions , the best shuttle company out there who will have you covered whether you’re staying in Taupo.  I loved how they were able to pick us up and drop us off directly from the hostel we were staying at.  It really made things so easy.

If you take a look at the cross section of the entire 7-9 hour hike, you’ll see elevation profile from start to end.  It’s a hike that ascends the saddle between the two mountains of Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro before descending into a collection of sulphuric lakes and down the backside.

Here are a few lessons learned from our experience:

Favourite part – My favourite part of the hike was near the beginning of the trail where you’re threading through the valley while the sun rises above the towering Mt. Ngauruhoe which surprisingly was more beautiful than its twin mountain and the hike’s namesake.  This is also the part of the hike that gave me serious flashbacks to Frodo and Sam as they snuck through the razor-shop rocks of Mordor.

Manageable uphills – The truth is that most of the hike wasn’t insanely hard and nothing compared to something like Dead Woman’s Pass on the Inca Trail .  All the ascents were manageable as long as you took lots of breaks in between.  When you’ve had enough, the trail usually levels out for a nice long pause.

The hardest part – The hard part was actually the descent from Red Crater Summit to Emerald Lakes (#5 in the map below).  This part consists of massively eroding loose gravel that seems like a short distance but lasts for an eternity because 1) there’s no good foothold at all 2) the ground slips underneath you without notice 3) others that really don’t have the right footwear act as big obstacles and 4) it’s the spine of a ridge and so there’s drop off on both sides.  It’s not something that most guides talk about so that’s why I highly recommend good shoes and perhaps a bit of slip and slide confidence

Crowds – We weren’t even there during high-season (mid November) and the trail was already quite packed.  Let’s just say there was never a point when it was just us.  Don’t expect to get any clean photos unless you start really early and hike really quickly.

Time management – We’re not fast hikers and what makes us even slower is the fact that I was also taking a lot of photo and video for the blog.  By the time we made it to the snow near the Red Crater Summit, it was already 10:40AM.  We didn’t make it to the Blue Lakes until 1:45PM.

Without a good grasp of time, I thought we were still good until we saw the signs.  By the time we made it to the Ketetahi Hut, it was 2:45PM and the sign said there was still another 1 hour 30 minutes left.  If you take a look at the Tongariro Expeditions guide, they recommend at least 2 hours.  Needing to make it to the car park by 4PM, we had to literally speed-hike/run back down in 1 hour 15 minutes.

Also don’t underestimate that last stretch.  It’s designated as hard for reason – it is never ending and just when you think the forest should clear into marking lot, it keeps going.  Somehow we pulled it off but I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone.

Location:   Book with Tongariro Expeditions to start your hike at the Mangatepopo Car Park

When:  There are two pick up times in Taupo – 5:20AM and 6:20AM.  Pick up times at the end of the trail happen between 1:30 – 4:30PM but in our case, it was 2PM – 4PM (seasonal reasons).

Price:  NZ$70 adult or NZ$35 child round trip from Taupo.  Alternatively if you’d like to park at the Ketetahi lot, you can hire a shuttle

Alternative services:   If you have a car and you’d like to park on the Ketetahi side, you can hire a one-way shuttle to Mangatepopo.  Pickups are from 6.30AM-8.30AM.  There is a special Tongariro shuttle parking lot for this

• Lunch and snacks
• 1.5 – 2L of water per person
• Real hiking shoes (i.e. Columbia’s Conspiracy Outdry shoe)
• Sunscreen – You’re completely exposed the whole trail.  With the ozone layer depletion near New Zealand, it’s so easy to get burnt here.  Re-apply at least once.
• Wear layers – be ready for all weather
• Beanie/toque in the winter
• Waterproof jacket and pants if it rains
• This hike is very weather dependent so you do need to check-in with Tongariro Expeditions the day before to see if they’re running or not
• Stock up on lunch, snacks, and water the night before
• Shuttle buses leave on time – We did not want to find out what would happen if we arrived after 4PM.  Our bus left at 4:04PM so that tells you just how on time they are
• Free hiking sticks – You’ll notice that hiking sticks can’t be rented from Tongariro Expeditions  and that’s because they them for free to borrow on the bus.  It’s not something they disclose but a pretty sweet perk
• Pay attention to colour of bracelets – Anyone with Tongariro Expeditions will have a rubber bracelet.  Your bus will be one colour and other buses will be another colour.  If you’re the first bus and notice other colours start creeping up on you, that’s when you know you’re starting to follow behind
• What happens if you don’t make the bus? – They instructed us to call them if we knew we wouldn’t make the last bus but I found that hilarious because I don’t had signal the whole hike.  Just don’t be late.
• What’s the bathroom situation? – I was impressed with how many bathroom outhouses were set up along the trail.  They’re frequent enough that you don’t need to really worry too much.  Just expect long lines especially after lunch hour so I’d recommend going before summiting Red Crater and again at Ketetahi Hut.

You’ll be exhausted when you get to Taupo.  Take a breather, reward yourself a great dinner over at Dixie Brown’s, and watch a brilliant sunset over Lake Taupo.

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Lunch –  Packed lunch
• Dinner – Dixie Brown’s
• The same as the previous day

End off your trip on a high with a couple of things two things that the North Island is best known for – geothermal activity and Hobbiton.

Start of your day by heading to Craters of the Moon which minutes outside of Taupo and across the street from Huka Falls.  While this might not have the scale or diversity of  Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland , it is one of those things that makes sense logistically, doesn’t take too long to do, and is quite affordable (NZ$8 for adults, NZ$4 for children).

Walk through the guided boardwalk which takes you through bubbling craters, hissing steam vents, and colourful soil.

Nearby town is a secret treasure that’s been known to locals for a long time but is now becoming a big attraction on its own.  The name gives it away – Spa Thermal Park .  It’s part of a large green space that features walking paths, playground, and open park but what makes this place special is the thermal stream at the edge of the Waikato river.

The hot stream mixes in with the river water and naturally forms several small rock pools.  Each pool is at its own temperature and cools down as you get closer to the river.

Address:   County Ave, Tauhara, Taupo 3378, New Zealand (look for Otumuheke Thermal Stream)

Hours:  7AM -8PM

Price:  Free

Parking:  Free at the park’s lot but spaces fill up quickly

• Are there change rooms? – Yes, a brand new facility was built with individual change rooms
• Are there lockers? – Free lockers are provided as part of the new building but if you’re comfortable, you can easily put your things on the rock near the water where you’ll be soaking

Hobbiton is the stuff of legends.  Scouted by Peter Jackson’s team for Lord of the Rings, the story is that they flew over this 1,250 acre sheep farm in Matamata and discovered that it was strikingly similar to The Shire with its giant pine tree and rising hill overlooking a lake.  They completely converted the rolling green hills into Hobbiton but at the time, they created it as a temporary set with the intention to return it back to a farm after filming was done.  When The Hobbit rolled around, they decided to re-build everything permanently for visitors to tour for years to come.

While it is as touristy as things come in New Zealand, its must-do for any Lord of the Rings pilgrimage.  The 2 hour tour takes you through the entire grounds of Hobbiton where it hits you just how thorough, detailed, and complete it is.  When you first enter in, you’ll have that out-of-body experience as I did where you realize that it’s all real.  The only disappointment is the fact that there’s nothing much behind those round doors but being able to stand inside one will make you forget pretty quickly.

From the farmer’s garden, hobbit-scale holes, human-scale hobbit holes, the beekeeper’s mailbox, chimney’s that puff real smoke, the house of the hobbit that picks his nose, and of course Bilbo’s Bag End, it’s easy to forgive the large group of tourists.  To round out the experience, you get to have a pint of Southfarthing’s own ales in the iconic Green Dragon pub.

Address:   501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata 3472, New Zealand

Hours:   Tours depart daily from 9am until 3:30pm. (Extra 4PM and 4:30PM tours between September 1 – April 30, and 5PM and 5:30PM between December 27 and February 28)

Price:  NZ$84 for adults, NZ$42 for youth (9-15), and free for children 0-8

Parking:    There’s plenty of parking in Shire’s Rest (where you wait for your bus pick up across the street from Hobbiton)

• Reservations in advance  are recommended
• If you have the time and spots are available, I highly recommend booking the evening banquet tour which lets you tour Hobbiton at dusk (best lighting) and a dinner feast in the Green Dragon
• Note that there are also pickups from the Matamata I-Site (info centre) or Rotorua
• There’s a Hobbiton Movie Set Store in Rotorua (1235 Fenton St, Rotorua)
• If you want to get photos of you in the Hobbit holes, your best bet is to stay near the back of the pack.  You won’t be able to hear too much of the commentary but it’s really the only way to get clean shots
• In Green Dragon, go around and pay attention to the random notes, pictures, and objects.  There aren’t any easter eggs but we found a few signs that gave me a chuckle
• The hobbit clothing at the back exit of Green Dragon are free for visitors to put on so take advantage of this photo op

Book your tour

The drive back to Auckland will take 2 hours and 15 minutes.  Check into where you’ll be staying at night or have dinner first, depending on your timing.

• Craters of the Moon
• Hobbiton Movie Set
• Spa Thermal Park
• Lunch –  Paulys Diner
• Dinner – Sri Penang

NEW MARKET COZY ROOM

This was the perfect B&B-type of place to end off our trip.  We wanted some something comfortable, not in the city, with easy parking and this ticked off all the boxes.  The room was super spacious and perfect all around.

If you’re looking to stay in the Central Business District (CBD) area, this is a great affordable option that is still a private en-suite room.  Well rated and close to a lot of food in the area.

As I mention in the New Zealand travel guide , you’ll know that this isn’t the cheapest country to travel through but if you do it smart, you don’t have to spend as much money as you think.

To give you an idea of the kind of money you’ll have to spend on a 3 week New Zealand trip, here’s a break down of all of our expenses.  Note this doesn’t include any flights, is for the two of us and is in NZD.

• Flying Kiwi – $5,690
• Activities – $2,692
• Food – $1,285
• Accommodations – $991
• Transportation – $795
• Souvenirs – $309
• Communications – $213
• Clothing – $60

Total = NZ$12,035.39 (for two)

No itinerary is perfect and there were plenty of things that I wish we could fit in but just couldn’t with the 3 week restriction we had.

As you can see from the trip map, you’ll see that this itinerary focuses on the western side of both islands of New Zealand which leaves the eastern side largely skipped.  If you’re considering alternatives or have a serious case of FOMO, take a look at some of these activities that may be worth adding if you want to expand from the 3 weeks.

• Kaikoura – Swimming with dolphins
• Rotorua – Maori cultural experience (highly recommended to us)
• Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier – glacier heli-hike experience (thanks to the weather)
• Lake Wanaka – the famous tree
• Mt Cook National Park –  Hooker Valley track
• Milford Sound – Routeburn track

Our full 3 week New Zealand itinerary was simply epic.  It was an unbelievable journey that spanned both the South Island and North Island, giving us a chance to see treasured highlights and experience bucket-list worthy activities.

This is a trip where we mixed and matched a traditional road trip with a guided bus tour and it was quite unique as a result.  For one, it made trip planning a heck of a lot easier because all I had to do was focus on the beginning and the end.   Through Flying Kiwi, we were able to make new friends with people we would’ve otherwise never encountered and it was our fun dynamic of travellers that really made things memorable.  The adventure bus tour also provided a nice change of pace between travelling as a couple and as a group.

New Zealand is somewhere that I could go again and again.  In 3 weeks you’ll be transported over climates that range from alpine, glacial, fjord, sub-tropical, rainforest, and full tropical.  More importantly, it’s a country that emphasizes doing just as much it does seeing which means there’s never a dull moment.  The adrenaline never really wears off while you’re out there and smiles run end to end all day long.

Helpful New Zealand Resources

Make sure you read these next!

Comprehensive New Zealand travel guide

Top 5 things to do from Queenstown

Flying Kiwi Reverse Traverse review

New Zealand packing guide

Got questions from your own trip to New Zealand? Let me help you by dropping a comment down below !

What you should read next

Le Meridien Bora Bora Overwater Bungalow and Resort Review Islands of Tahiti Packing List – French Polynesia including Bora Bora, Rangiroa, and Fakarava The Islands of Tahiti Travel Guide – What You Need To Know for French Polynesia

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

Find us on social media

Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

14 Day New Zealand Tour Itinerary | A Complete Travel Guide

If you’re looking to explore all the best that New Zealand has to offer, then this 1 4-Day New Zealand Travel Itinerary is perfect for you. Starting in Auckland , your first stop will be Magical Mangawhai before making your way to the Coromandel Peninsula , after you’ll pass through Taupo . Take a pit stop in Wellington and pop across to Picton to marvel at the beauty the top of the South Island has to offer.

There are so many beautiful spots in New Zealand and two weeks isn’t quite enough to explore it all properly but this 14 day New Zealand Travel itinerary highlights some of the best spots without trying to squeeze too much into your holiday!

There are so many reasons why New Zealand should be at the top of your Travel Bucket List. From its stunning landscapes and gorgeous beaches to its world-class wine and food, New Zealand has something for everyone.

But what really sets New Zealand apart is its incredible culture . The Kiwis are some of the friendliest people on the planet, and they love nothing more than welcoming visitors into their homes. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, New Zealand should definitely be at the top of your list.

How to get around New Zealand

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Day 2 and 3: Auckland – Mangawhai

Day 4: Mangawhai – Coromandel Peninsula

Day 5: Cathedral Cove and Hahei Beach

Day 6: Hot Water Beach and New Chums Beach

Day 7: Otama Beach, Optio Bay and Crayfish Bay

Day 8: Coromandel Peninsula to Taupo

Day 9: Explore Taupo

Day 10: Taupo to Wellington

Day 11: Wellington to Picton

Day 12: Picton to Nelson

Day 13: Nelson

Day 14: Nelson to Auckland

Best Hotels and Resorts in New Zealand

What is the best time of year to visit new zealand, 14 day new zealand itinerary – summary, share this:.

Quick disclaimer, for this 14 day New Zealand Travel itinerary you are definitely going to want to hire a car . Reason being, some of the BEST places in New Zealand are quite remote which means public transport won’t take you there.

Or it’ll take you some of the way there, and you’ll end up having to get a taxi the rest of the way which will end up hurting your wallet.

Be sure to look into hiring a car before you arrive in New Zealand . There has been a recent influx of tourists post covid (which is super awesome!) but it means some car rental companies are struggling to keep up. So to avoid missing out, best to be prepared.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to New Zealand to tick off this 14 Day New Zealand Itinerary

• Book your Rental Car in New Zealand on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best New Zealand Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in New Zealand on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to New Zealand, and get access to premium Airport Lounges.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in New Zealand.

14 Day New Zealand Travel Itinerary

Pin this New Zealand Trip Planner featuring an exhaustive 2 week New Zealand Tour Itinerary

After arriving in New Zealand’s biggest city, spend a day getting your bearings. Head to the Sky Tower for unbeatable views, take a walk through Auckland Domain and learn about New Zealand’s history at Auckland Museum .

Relax in the sun at the Viaduct for happy hour and grab a bite to eat. There is an awesome array of restaurants to choose from, some of the best in the city.

Auckland | Photo by Sulthan Auliya on Unsplash

If you’re feeling a little bit fancy and want to kick your holiday off right, Soul Bar is a popular choice. For something a bit more laid back try Hello Beasty or White and Wongs, both incredible Asian Fusion restaurants. I’m not exaggerating when I say the food is to die for, especially Hello Beasty. I’d happily eat there any day!

For a slightly cheaper night out Coops is a good option, or Dr Rudi’s is well known for their delicious pizzas.

Wherever you decide to go, you can’t really go wrong at the viaduct!

Start your day with a short drive north to Mangawhai Heads . They don’t call it Magical Mangawhai for nothing and it’s a summer hotspot you definitely want to check out.

Go for a swim at beautiful Mangawhai Beach , explore the quaint shops and cafes in the village and take a walk along the estuary.

In the afternoon, head to Te Arai Point for some surf or relaxation time on the golden sand beaches. Be sure to walk around to the beach to the right of Te Arai, it gives off massive Europe vibes and is so beautiful.

It’s very easy to spend a day or two enjoying the slower pace of Mangawhai beach town. The locals are incredibly friendly and due to Mangawhai’s growing popularity, there are quite a few boutique shops to explore.

Wake up early and drive to the Coromandel Peninsula , you’ll probably end up staying here for 3 or 4 days as there is plenty to do.

In fact you could probably spend your whole two weeks in the Coromandel and be quite content! However this New Zealand Travel itinerary is all about taking you to the best bits, so what hotspots do you need to hit?

Cathedral Cove

Hot Water Beach

Hahei Beach

• New Chums Beach

Crayfish Bay

Otama Beach

That might sound like a lot but luckily Cathedral Cove , Hahei Beach and Hot Water Beach are all pretty close to one another. Same goes for Opito Bay, Crayfish Bay and Otama Beach so you could probably knock out this list in 3 days (4 if you want more time relaxing at each place).

Let’s start with Cathedral Cove , one of New Zealand’s most iconic beaches . This place looks like something straight out of a movie set with its dramatic cliffs and the famous rock archway.

To beat the summer heat (and the crowds) you’ll want to head off early. The best way to get there is by walking. Cathedral Cove is also accessible by boat but walking is definitely the most popular option. With a distance of 2.5 kilometres and a walking time of 1 hour and 30 minutes return, it’s a pretty easy trek and so worth it once you get there!

Along the way, you’ll get some incredible views and there are plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to swing by Stingray Bay , it’s usually pretty quiet and a real hidden gem.

Stingray Beach

Once you arrive at Cathedral Cove, take some time to explore and swim in the clear blue water. It really is as beautiful as it looks in pictures!

In the afternoon, walk back to Hahei Beach for a spot of sunbathing or swimming. This place is pretty popular due to being another stunning beach and one that is a bit more accessible than Cathedral Cove. However, it’s still worth a visit to see New Zealand’s stunning east coast.

In the morning of your sixth day of this 14 Day New Zealand Travel Itinerary, you’ll want to make your way to Hot Water Beach . This beach gets its name from the natural hot springs that run underneath it and as you can probably guess by its name, it’s a great spot for a hot soak!

All you need to do is dig a hole and voila, you have your very own hot tub! The perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring.

Hot Water beach is only a short drive from Cathedral Cove and Hahei Beach so it’s easy to include in your itinerary before making your way out to New Chums Beach.

Just be sure to go 2 hours on either side of low tide so you can actually access the hot water, this will largely dictate when you’re able to squeeze it into your itinerary.

In the summer months, it’s great to visit in the early morning or late afternoon so you can enjoy the heat of the water. During the day while the sun is beating down you’ll probably want to give it a miss but the beach is still worth a visit if you have time.

After you’ll make your way to Whangapoua Beach as this is where you’ll start the New Chums Beach Walk from. New Chums Beach is New Zealand’s most isolated beach and because of this, it’s also one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets.

The walk itself should take around 30 minutes. You will pass over some rocks and uneven ground, even a stream right at the start too but it isn’t a difficult walk and most people should be completely fine.

Instead of gunning it straight for the beach once you arrive at New Chums, take the extra time to walk to the top of the lookout. It’s a rather steep climb but the views certainly won’t disappoint, trust me!

New Chums Beach Lookout

After conquering the lookout, make your way to the beach and take some time to relax. New Chums Beach is the perfect place to kick back and really enjoy New Zealand’s beautiful landscape.

Make your way to Kuaotunu afterwards for a central place to stay. If you don’t feel like cooking Luke’s Kitchen has some delicious cuisine to choose from and the restaurant has an awesome laidback coastal vibe.

If you’re lucky and get a table outside you’ll be able to see the sunset. Sometimes live music is played over the weekends in the summer months.

Day 7 is all about relaxing at the beach and they are pretty gorgeous beaches! You’ll be quite happy lounging about and swimming all day.

Start your day off at Otama Beach , it’s a great place for swimming or sunbathing. The pohutukawa trees at the edge of the beach provide some much-needed shade.

Out of the 3 beaches, Otama is the place with the most waves and has a rather steep gradient, perfect for running and diving straight into the ocean. In saying that it is still a very safe swimming beach.

It’s also pretty secluded so if you arrive in the morning, don’t be surprised if you’re the only ones here!

Once you feel like a change of scenery, make your way to Opito Bay . This is the perfect spot if you want to go kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding as the water here is usually very calm.

Lastly, end your day at Crayfish Bay for some incredible views. Located just a short 10-minute walk from Opito Bay it’s definitely not to be missed.

Instead of beautiful golden sand, this unique beach is stony and has some pretty dramatic rock formations to the right-hand side of the bay. Walk round the rocks for some spectacular views of the sparkling blue water.

If you’re feeling brave, there’s a cliff jump down into the water. If you visit in summer you’ll likely see others jumping from the rocks.

There are metal bars mounted into the rocks to help you climb back up after your jump or you can simply swim back to shore.

Whether you jump or not, Crayfish Bay is definitely worth a visit.

It’s time to leave the Coromandel Peninsula and make your way to Taupo.

The journey will take you about 3 and a half hours so best to get on the road early to make the most of your time in Taupo. Matamata is a good halfway point to grab a bite to eat.

Taupo is located in New Zealand’s North Island and is well-known for its incredible scenery and geothermal activity. There are plenty of things to do in Taupo , from hiking and biking to swimming and fishing.

Taupo | Photo by Brandon Weekes on Unsplash

You can also visit the thermal pools or go whitewater rafting on the Waikato River. The activities you choose to do here will all depend on what kind of holiday you’re after.

When it comes to food and drinks, Taupo is definitely the place to be. From fine dining restaurants to trendy cafes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town.

There is so much to do in Taupo that you may as well take an extra day to explore at a bit of a slower pace.

During the day drive around the lake and discover unique swimming spots. If you get a chance, I’d recommend hiring a kayak and checking out the Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay. It’s a beautiful sight and definitely worth a visit. Of course, it’s amazing spending time on the lake as well cause it is a stunner.

Make sure to take in the stunning views of New Zealand’s North Island from Huka Falls too. The thundering cascade is something that shouldn’t be missed.

Next it’s time to make the trek from Taupo to Wellington . At 4 hours and 40 minutes, it’s nothing too crazy and totally doable within a day.

There isn’t a lot to see on the way down so it’s a good idea to just get on the road and head straight there. Of course stop for a quick toilet break or some food when you need it.

Wellington | Photo by Jil Beckmann on Unsplash

When you arrive in New Zealand’s capital, there’ll be plenty of things to do. From visiting Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum to checking out the library or chilling at one of the beaches Wellington has to offer.

If you’re into shopping, head on over to Lambton Quay for some retail therapy or Cuba Street for some awesome bars, cafes and street art.

In the morning, catch the Interislander across Cook Strait to travel to the top of the South Island.

Make sure to book the ferry well in advance as over the summer months and particularly over the Christmas break the boats fill up fast. You’re also more likely to get stuck with the less desirable travel times the longer you leave it (think 2am in the morning!).

The ferry will drop you in Picton, a gorgeous little seaside town that people tend to pass straight on through. I recommend spending the night here so you can explore the area and catch one of the incredible sunsets in the evening.

Grab a bite to eat from a nearby cafe or bakery before making your way to Bob’s Bay . Even if it’s not hot enough to swim this picturesque bay is worth a visit.

The walk from the marina is pretty easy, it takes just 30 minutes and is known as the “lower track”. There is an “upper track” you can explore as well if you wish.

Enjoy an afternoon swim at the bay and watch some of the ships coming in. With toilet facilities and a picnic table, it’s got everything you need for a lazy afternoon.

In the evening, make your way down to the marina to watch the sunset. If you’re lucky the sky will turn into a gorgeous array of pinks and oranges. Take a picnic rug with you to sit down and relax on the grass.

Once the sun has gone down, wander around the collection of restaurants at the marina to find a bite to eat. Being a pretty small town there isn’t a ton of choice but you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy.

Picton is the gateway to New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds , a stunning collection of islands and waterways that are perfect for kayaking or boat trips. Spend the morning of day 12 doing a cruise through the Marlborough Sounds.

Marlborough Sounds

A cruise is a great option to discover some of the hidden bays and possibly spot some sea life such as dolphins and seals.

As an alternative to doing a cruise, you can also rent bikes and take them around Queen Charlotte Drive which is a fun way to explore the area and get some amazing views of the sounds.

Soon it’ll be time to make your way to Nelson, it’s worth stopping in Blenheim on the way if you’ve got time.

The region is known for its wine so it’d be rude not to try some! Wither Hills, Cloudy Bay and Villa Maria are just some of the top-rated vineyards in the area. Pop in for a glass of wine, or two and enjoy some delicious food.

After lunch, continue driving to the picturesque town of Nelson. This journey will take you through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, so be sure to make some stops along the way.

Nelson is a beautiful town in New Zealand that is known for its wine and stunning scenery. Visit the Abel Tasman National Park for a look at some of the most beautiful coastline in the country.

Spend the morning walking the coastal track, admiring the lush native bush and rugged limestone cliffs. It’s possible to just walk some of the track and then catch a boat back to the start so you don’t need to worry about booking any overnight huts.

Then, in the afternoon head to Kaiteriteri Beach for a refreshing swim. You can also take a walk through the city centre or visit one of the art galleries and museums.

Day 14 sadly means your holiday has come to an end. Catch a flight from Nelson back to the city of Auckland where you’ll farewell New Zealand.

If you have time before your flight, take a stroll around the Wynyard Quarter, New Zealand’s waterfront district. Stop off for a coffee at one of the many cafes in the area before you make your way to the airport.

Your New Zealand adventure may be over, but it’s sure to be an experience that you’ll never forget!

If you are wondering, where to stay in New Zealand, you can simply enter your dates, and hit the search button in the box below, to search and compare prices for the Best Hotels and Resorts in New Zealand, based on your needs.

Photo by Sarah Evans on Unsplash

New Zealand features four distinct seasons, each bringing its own unique set of experiences. The New Zealand summer (December to February) is usually the best time for travellers who are looking for hot weather, long days and plenty of outdoor activities.

Spring (September to November) is a great time for hiking, seeing the incredible New Zealand landscapes in bloom, and spotting some of New Zealand’s wildlife.

Autumn (March to May) is an ideal time for wine tasting, and the cooler temperatures make it a great time for mountain biking or trekking.

Finally, winter (June to August) brings snow-covered mountains, ski resorts and lots of hot thermal springs to explore. No matter which season you choose, New Zealand is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Day 6: Hot Water Beach and New Chums Beac h

No matter what you decide to do during your 14 days in New Zealand, it’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.

Enjoy discovering the stunning New Zealand scenery, getting up close with some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife, and indulging in New Zealand’s delicious food and wine. New Zealand is sure to leave you wanting more!

Don’t forget to Pin this New Zealand Travel Guide and New Zealand Trip Planner featuring an exhaustive 14 Day New Zealand Travel Itinerary , carefully crafted and curated by a local, which will help you in planning for your trip to New Zealand.

Also, if you like reading the content I create and curate, I will be really thankful if you could take a moment to

LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE and SUBSCRIBE 

Also, if you’re on Facebook, I would love to have you as a part of 

the Eat Travel Live Repeat Travel Community

Subscribe via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to theETLRblog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Privacy Overview

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

With its snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, rolling verdant hills, incredibly friendly locals, and abundant world-class wine, New Zealand is as wonderful as you’ve heard. In fact, take what you’ve heard and times it by ten. Because New Zealand will simply blow your mind when you visit.

People think because it’s a small country, you can see it all in two weeks. Unfortunately, that’s not true. There’s a lot to do here. From the north island to the south island, you need a lot of time here to see the highlights. You could literally fill months with activities and still only scratch the surface. New Zealand may be small but it punches above its weight with things to do.

But what if you don’t have months? What do you do then? What route do you take? What island should you start with? Where do you go?

Or what if you do have a month to spend? Then what? Where do you begin planning your New Zealand itinerary?

Below are my suggested itineraries that can help you plan your New Zealand road trip for maximum efficiency. Whether you have two weeks, one month, or even longer, these itineraries will ensure that you see the highlights and get off the beaten path.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

New Zealand Itinerary Highlights

Choosing the right vehicle.

• Two-Week North Island Route
• Two-Week South Island Route
• One Month Itinerary
• Things to Remember

Note : Two weeks is the minimum recommended time for a New Zealand road trip. There’s so much to see and do here, yet you still don’t want to be rushed or spend all your time in the car. If you only have two weeks, focus on one island.  

• Hike the Franz Josef Glacier
• See the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Visit Hobbiton
• Experience a Maori Cultural Show
• Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Go skydiving or bungy jumping
• Explore Fiordland National Park

Want more info on these activities (and many others)? I cover them all below!  

• Travellers Autobarn
• Wicked Campers

Prices vary a lot. Your daily rate will change depending on where you pick up the vehicle, if you are dropping it off at a different place, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when you book (in the high season, prices seem to double!).

If living out of a van for a few weeks doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun time, simply rent a normal car and book accommodation along the way. To book a car, check out Discover Cars , which searches rental agencies big and small to find the best deals.

If you plan to drive New Zealand, you can use this widget to get a free quote for your car rental:

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week North Island Route

Days 1–2: auckland.

Spend some time hanging out on the Auckland Domain, go snorkelling on Goat Island , and if you love wine like I do, take a wine tour on Waiheke Island .

For a list of more things to do in Auckland, check out my guide to the city!

Where to Stay : The Albion – This historic accommodation began as a “pub hotel” in the 19th century. Today there’s still a nice old tavern in the hotel. The rooms are comfortable and the place is quiet.

Days 3-4: Bay of Islands

While you’re here you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (one of the most important historical sites in the country), explore Cape Reinga (the northernmost point of New Zealand), and see wild dolphins on a boat tour .

For a list of more things to do in Bay of Islands, check out my complete guide!

Where to Stay : Haka Lodge – Located in Paihia, Haka Lodge has a lot of common spaces, a large kitchen, and great views over the harbor. Everything is super clean and the beds are comfortable. It’s a good place to meet people.

Day 5: Hobbiton

To see Hobbiton, you’ll have to take a tour that starts with a drive through the owner’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm, offering epic views over the Kaimai Range. From here, you can explore Bag End, wander around the hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. Tours start at 89 NZD.

Where to Stay : Cosy Country Stay B&B – This is a cute bed-and-breakfast located in Matamata just a few miles from Hobbiton. The hosts are fantastic, there’s complimentary breakfast, and the property is quiet and tranquil, with roaming cats and goats for added atmosphere.

Days 6–7: Rotorua

The Maori were the original inhabitants of New Zealand, having arrived from Polynesia between 1320 and 1350. This is the best area to learn about Maori history and culture . Don’t miss seeing a Maori cultural show while you’re here (the Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience is the one I attended).

The region is also known for its geothermal activity, and the dynamic landscape makes for exciting nature walks, trips to smelly sulfuric geysers, and soaks in luxury spas with water from the hot springs.

Where to Stay : Rock Solid Backpackers – This is a centrally located hostel with an expansive array of facilities, including a cinema, a bar, a communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall.

Day 8: Waitomo

You can walk, abseil, or float down an underground river to see them. A 45-minute rafting trip is the standard visit, but if you want to go abseiling (also known as rappelling) there’s a five-hour option too. Prices start at 55 NZD for a boat tour and 195 NZD for extended tours with abseiling.

For a complete list of things to do in Waitomo, check out my guide on the town.

Where to Stay : Juno Hall – Close to the glowworm caves, Juno Hall has a swimming pool and tennis court on-site. There’s a large kitchen as well as an outdoor grill for barbecuing.

Days 9-10: Taupo

It’s also one of the best places to go skydiving in New Zealand thanks to the views and clear skies (though I didn’t do this while I was there).

I loved the small-town feel of Taupo, sitting by the lake, and being able to do so many hikes. I could have stayed here for weeks.

For a list of more things to do in Taupo, check out my guide!

Where to Stay : Finlay Jack’s has a huge kitchen, a big common room, a spacious patio with BBQs, fun and welcoming staff, bike rentals, and a super friendly hostel dog. Everything in the hostel is updated, with new, modern pod-style beds so you can get a great night’s sleep. In short, everything a backpacker or budget traveler would want from a hostel.

Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

As you wind your way through Tongariro National Park, you’ll walk through volcanic terrain (including where Mordor in Lord of the Rings was filmed), past high peaks and sulfur lakes, and end the day in a dense forest. It’s easy in parts (the beginning and end) and steep in others (especially the portion after “Mount Doom”), so you’ll get a good mix of difficulty levels.

Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, toilet paper, and a sweater or jacket (the weather can change rapidly). Expect to pay around 50 NZD per person for a round-trip shuttle to and from the trail or 325 NZD for a full-day guided hike .

Where to Stay : National Park Alpine Lodge – Located in National Park Village (the best place to stay if doing the trek), this lodge features budget-friendly private rooms, a communal kitchen and common area (with a cozy fireplace for cold nights!), and a helpful staff.

Otherwise, you can stay in Taupo, which is where people usually base themselves when they do this trek.

Days 12–14: Wellington

Be sure to visit Te Papa (New Zealand’s national museum), ride the cable car to the Cable Car Museum, and tour Weta Workshop (an Academy Award–winning props and special effects studio).

For a list of more things to do in Wellington, check out my detailed guide to the city.

Where to Stay : The Marion – This boutique hostel is just blocks away from everything you’ll want to see. It’s cozy, with comfy beds and large bathrooms, and the staff really go out of their way to make you feel welcome. It’s a clean, social spot to relax and meet other travelers.

If you’ve only got two weeks and are ending your 14-day New Zealand itinerary in Wellington, you can fly out of the airport here to wherever you need to go next. If you have more time, you’ll take the car ferry (around 3.5 hours) to Picton on the South Island to continue your trip (in which case, follow the following two-week South Island itinerary, but in reverse).  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route

If you choose the South Island for your two-week road trip, start in Queenstown. Even if your international flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you can easily get a cheap flight to Queenstown. Queenstown also has direct flights to many major cities in Australia if your trip to New Zealand is part of a larger adventure in Oceania.

Days 1-3: Queenstown

Known as “the adventure capital of New Zealand” (it’s the launching pad for every sort of adventure activity you can think of), Queenstown lives up to the hype. Even though it has become hugely popular, I cannot express my love of Queenstown enough. I love sitting by the lake, watching the sunset with a bottle of wine, and hiking the nearby trails.

Explore nearby vineyards, enjoy the waters of Lake Wakatipu, or go bungy jumping, ziplining, rafting, or skydiving . There’s a lot to do here.

For a list of more things to do in Queenstown, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms have balconies, the showers have excellent water pressure, and the pillows are thick. There are activities every night and a free dinner and quiz night on Sunday. Overall, this is a great place to stay.

Days 4-6: Fiordland

Milford Sound is an amazing fjord that’s best known for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You can walk the wooded trail along the sandy shore for perfect views of the peak, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get close to powerful waterfalls.

The fjord itself is home to seal and penguin colonies. You can often see pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters too. Explore by boat and check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral and other underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the only company doing cruises that include the Underwater Observatory. Cruises start from 165 NZD .

While less well-known than Milford, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord in the country. You can only get to Doubtful via boat. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound costs 299 NZD.

Where to Stay : Milford Sound Lodge – This is quite literally the only place to stay within about 50 kilometers (31 miles). It’s not cheap, but the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is delicious, and the contemporary rooms are cozy yet modern. Otherwise, if you have a car, you can stay in the closest town, Te Anau where you’ll find cheaper accommodation.

Days 7-8: Wanaka

For a list of more things to do in Wanaka, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Mountain View Backpackers – This hostel has a huge outdoor space with a grill, space to lie in the sun, and a big table to congregate around (there were many enjoyable nights spent drinking wine outdoors).

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Hiking the glaciers here is an unforgettable experience. Sadly, because they have receded and are melting quickly due to climate change, the caves and walks have been shut down. Now, the only way to trek on the glaciers is via heli-hike ( an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/hiking experience ). These are expensive (500 NZD), but the helicopter ride, trekking, and experience as a whole are worth the price in my opinion.

Conversely, you can just hike to the glacier face and take photos from a distance. There are tons of viewing points (and you’ll see photos of just how far the glaciers have receded over the years).

Where to Stay : Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Just a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging offers free homemade soup every night, free breakfast (homemade waffles and pancakes!), two communal kitchens, and a hot tub.

Days 10–11: Abel Tasman National Park

The best way to see the park is by kayak, so you can explore the little coves and beaches that really make the area special. Full-day rentals start at around 110 NZD, or you can join a guided kayaking tour starting at 190 NZD. You can also take a scenic cruise around the park for 95 NZD.

Where to Stay : Marahau Beach Camp – Offers both dormitories and small private cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are also tent and campervan sites if you want to save money.

From here, pick your last stop: either drive onwards to Christchurch and end there or take the ferry over to Wellington (an adventure in and of itself!) and end there. Either way, you’ll be able to catch a cheap and quick flight back to Auckland for your international flight home.

If you’re heading to Christchurch, keep reading. If you’d like to visit Wellington, scroll back up and follow the tips in the North Island itinerary section.

Days 12-14: Christchurch

While there’s not a lot “to do” per se, the vibe here is really relaxed, and it’s worth not rushing through if you aren’t short on time. Be sure to ride the gondola , visit the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake City (a unique and interactive museum that recounts personal stories from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For a list of more things to do in Christchurch, check out my city guide.

Where to Stay : Urbanz – This is an awesome hostel located in downtown Christchurch with friendly staff and a huge kitchen. There’s also a hostel bar, a pool table, fast Wi-Fi, laundry, movies, and comfy couches, as well as a parking lot.

If you need to get back to Queenstown, it’s a 6 hour drive from here. Alternatively, you can fly to Auckland. The flight is just over an hour and tickets can be found for as low as 65 NZD if you book in advance.  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: One Month

Again, these are just recommended itineraries — I encourage you to adapt as needed!  

Things to Remember When Road-Tripping New Zealand

To help you make the most of your road trip, please remember the following rules:

• Traffic flows on the left here (not the right, like in the US or Canada).
• You must always park your car in the direction that traffic is going (or risk a fine).
• There are plenty of pull-off points for taking photos — use them instead of stopping at a random spot along the side of the road, which can be quite dangerous given how tight the roads are here.
• Roads here are winding, so remember that it might take longer than you expect to cover a particular distance.
• As long as your current and valid driver’s license is in English, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit.
• If you’re traveling by campervan, use the CamperMate app to find nearby campsites, gas stations, and dump stations.

New Zealand is an unforgettable country, loaded with epic landscapes, friendly Kiwis, and a rich culture. Due to its remote location, visiting is usually a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most travelers. Taking a road trip is the best way to make the most of your time here, tailoring your itinerary to your own preferences and New Zealand bucket list.

Book Your Trip to New Zealand: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for specific places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in New Zealand .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on New Zealand? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on New Zealand for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

• Bay of Plenty
• Mount Ruapehu
• Nelson/Marlborough
• Christchurch
• Why and How
• Tips and Advice
• Interactive Map
• Recommend to Friend
• Useful Links
• #Clearwater
• #Collective
• Rental Cars
• Accommodation
• Campervan Rental
• List Your Site
• T-shirts & more

New Zealand Itinerary Planning

Customized travel itinerary creation, travel tips and resources, discover new zealand regions.

Cheap New Zealand Travel Itineraries on a Budget

•   • $10 on average per night for campsite parking with facilities.
•   • $5 per day for petrol.
•   • $10 for food supplies.

Simple and Flexible Travel Planning

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 25 Comments

I spent a very happy year living, working and road tripping around New Zealand, and in that time I got to see quite a fair bit of what this magnificent country has to offer.

But what if you don’t have a year? What if you’ve got a more normal holiday period set aside for your trip, and you want to see as much of this phenomenally beautiful country as possible? Say… a month?

Well, fear not. New Zealand, unlike its vast neighbour, is a country which is eminently explorable in a month. Let’s get started with some pre-trip planning, and then look at a detailed one month New Zealand road trip itinerary.

Pre-trip planning for New Zealand

How to get around new zealand.

For this trip, I’m going to recommend that you have your own transport. Whilst New Zealand has a number of tour buses, and a limited rail service, the best way to experience the country at your own pace is with your own vehicle.

For a month, the easiest option is to rent a vehicle. Your two main choices are to rent a car, or to rent a campervan.

Generally, if you are aiming for a budget trip, then a car combined with hotels and hostels will proably work out cheaper than a campervan. Campervan hire can be expensive, and for the most part you have to pay for campsites anyway.

If you decide to rent a car, we usually recommend and use Discover Cars car rental price comparison tool , which works worldwide to find the best price on a rental car – it checks all the major car hire companies and we find it usually comes up with the best deal.

You could also try and buy a car and then sell it at the end , but in a month, you might not have the time or inclination to go down this road, despite the potential savings.

Of course, if you do want to rent a campervan to give yourself flexibility, and take advantage of the myriad beautiful campsites across the country, go for it! There are quite a few companies to choose from, we recommend taking a look at the options from Spaceship Rentals as a good starting point. Another great option is Motorhome Republic , who compare prices across a range of providers. You can see their New Zealand listings here .

Accommodation in New Zealand

There is no shortage of accommodation in New Zealand , from tucked away B&B’s and backpacker hostels right through to pricey high end establishments. There are also campsites galore, for the tent based travellers amongst you.

Prices vary. For a campsite, you will pay anything from 5 – 25 NZD per night per person. Hostel dorm beds go from around 22 NZD, whilst double rooms start at around 60NZD for two.

My advice would be to seek out the smaller, more personal accommodation providers, like the little hostels or B&B’s with personality. New Zealand is home to some truly wonderful hideaways, which cater to all types of traveller and every budget. You won’t be disappointed! Take a look at the booking.com listings for New Zealand to get the best deals.

When to visit New Zealand?

New Zealand has a fairly temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. It is busiest during the summer months (Dec – Feb), which is also when you are likely to get the better weather. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit, being less crowded and a bit cooler. If you’re visiting for the snow, then you will want to go in winter, (Jul-Sep).

My itinerary is for a more summery visit, as in winter many attractions become snow bound and harder to visit.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in New Zealand?

New Zealand isn’t a budget destination by any stretch of the imagination. Your main costs are going to be accommodation, transport and then food and any activities you want to take part in.

You could skimp on experiences, but my advice would be to budget for them and enjoy. Expect to budget at least 75-200 NZD per person per day all in.

Safety in New Zealand

New Zealand is a safe destination, assuming the volcanoes don’t go off while you are there. The main problem that affects travellers is having their vehicles broken into when leaving them parked for longer periods of time. Just ensure you take your valuables with you, and leave nothing at all on display, and you should be fine.

Let’s get on with this then. Based on my experiences, this is what I’d do for a month in New Zealand . I’d also recommend reading this excellent post on places to visit in New Zealand for more tips and planning advice.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: One Month

This New Zealand Road Trip itinerary is designed for a month of travel, however it can be extended or shortened of course depending on how much time you have available! I’d suggest that if you have less than two weeks to road trip in New Zealand, then focusing on the south island might be a good option.

Week 1 – The North Island

You’re going to arrive into Auckland, pick up your hire car, and head out of the city. Auckland has its charms , but you’re only here for a month, and you want to get started, right? So turn your motor south, and head down to the fabulously smelly town of Rotorua, around 3 hours drive south.

Day 1: Rotorua – Volcanic Wonderland and Cultural Experience

Rotorua is famous, predominantly, for being the home of volcanic activity on New Zealand. It’s also one of the more important places for experiencing Maori culture. I recommend spending a couple of hours on a day trip to Wai-o-Tapu thermal reserve , around 30km south of the city.

You’ll want to arrive in the morning to see the Lady Knox geyser go off, and then spend some time exploring the park, taking in incredible sights like the below pictured champagne pool.

Other highlights of staying in Rotorua include spending some time in the Polynesian spa (which some say is a possible cure for jet lag?), exploring the Rotorua Museum (itself a former bath house from the Victorian era), and of course, experiencing a Maori cultural evening .

I went to both the Mitai and Tamaki performances, and felt that the latter had the slight edge. Save money on these by booking via a hotel or the tourist office – this is usually cheaper than booking directly.

After you’ve filled up on culture and volcanoes, you’re going to head east, and take on the amazing East Cape of the north island – visited by less than 1% of visitors to New Zealand.

Days 2 – 4: East Cape – Deserted wilderness and spectacular coastal scenery

I’ve never understood why New Zealand’s East Cape is so under visited. Sure, it’s a bit out of the way, and it doesn’t have the sweeping majesty of the peaks of Tongariro , or Mount Taranaki out on the west coast, but what it does have are epic deserted driftwood coated beaches, sweeping vistas from switchback tarmac, and fascinating Maori heritage.

You’re going to need at least two days to do this area of the world justice, with highlights including the beautiful Tolaga Bay, black sand beaches, the east cape lighthouse and picturesque Raukokore Church.

The route winds from Opotiki to Gisborne along state highway 38, and there’s no shortage of accommodation along the way , from tiny guest houses and hostels to campgrounds. This is one road trip you will never forget – and we’re only in week one!

• Days 5 – 6: East Coast to Wellington – Wine tasting and Art Deco

After getting away from it all, what better way to get back to civilisation than by visiting the unusual art deco town of Napier on the east coast, and then spending some time exploring the world famous wineries of the Hawke’s Bay area. You could even explore the wineries by bicycle, if you were so inclined.

From here it’s down through the beautiful Wairapapa region , where you can explore more gorgeous coastline (such as that found at Castle Point), ancient cemeteries, and a town built in honour of one man’s travels. New Zealand really does have everything.

Now… with a car full of wine and memories, it’s time to do the last stretch of the drive, and pop down to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, and the place where you’re going to get your ferry to the South island.

Day 7: Wellington  

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, and is one of the cities in New Zealand that really deserves your attention. It’s also not very big, so you can easily squeeze in most of the highlights in a day, or even less.

My tips would be to take a walk (or drive, if you’re feeling lazy) up Mount Victoria, for incredible panoramic views of the windy city, and then spend some time getting seriously culturalised in the Te Papa museum – probably New Zealand’s best museum by far. This also happens to be free, and free is good.

Once you’re done, hop on the three hour ferry to the south island (in itself a beautiful trip!), and prepare to be amazed by mountainous beauty.

Alternative route from Rotorua .

The standard route for the north island followed by most goes as follows: Auckland – Rotorua – Tongariro National Park – Wellington . This route is well worn, and for good reason – it showcases some of the best of the North island in an easy to follow route.

My advice takes you off the beaten track, to the beautifully wild and deserted east cape region, and then down the wine region of the east coast. But if you just want to focus on the classic highlights, you won’t go wrong with the route down the middle – although you’re going to have your fill of epic mountains on the south island pretty shortly!

If you’re looking for more to do on the North island, or want to spend a bit longer here, check out my five must do’s on the north island for more ideas!

Week 2 – South Island North Coast

The ferry ride in through the sounds of New Zealand’s south island should have whet your appetite for what is coming next. This island couldn’t be more different from the north island – and lovers of majestic open scenery are about to get their minds well and truly blown. Let’s start off with a tour of Queen Charlotte sound.

• Day 8: Picton to Queen Charlotte Sound for inspiring fjord like scenery

The Queen Charlotte Sound is home to one of New Zealand’s great walks, and is, by all accounts, a fabulous bit of a walk. For the less walk inclined amongst you though, you can drive along the Kenepuru road, which offers lots of exciting views with none of the muscle strain.

And what views they are. Low cloud will hang like fog over the sounds, grasping on to the mountain ridges with trailing fingery tendrils. The reflections of the sky in the mirror perfect water will make you want to cry out with joy, with only the perfect stillness that surrounds you holding you back. And I promise you, the south island is only getting started.

There are a variety of places to stay in this area , either in Picton itself or in a little hostel or B&B. Ideally though, you will have packed a tent and some rudimentary camping gear, and you’re going to be able to set up camp at one of the fabulously located DOC campsites in the area. Don’t worry if you forget to pack the coffee though, the next stop on the tour will sort you right out.

• Day 9: Queen Charlotte to Nelson for incredible coffee and a laid back vibe

If you are at all into coffee, then Nelson needs to be on your to do list. New Zealanders are about as obsessed with coffee as any nation I’ve ever met, and Nelson isn’t a bad place to get that coffee fix going.

You’ll be able to find places that literally roast the coffee beans in front of you, before serving it up in whichever style you prefer (and yes, New Zealand has its own name for every type of coffee – you’ll want to read up before visiting!).

Nelson is also a pretty town for a wander, and a great launching point for heading to the north of the south island.

Days 10 – 13: Abel Tasman and Golden Bay for sea kayaking along the coast and amazing birdlife

The Abel Tasman national park is famous for gloriously golden sands and sparkling waters, with the highlight of a trip here being a kayaking expedition along the coast. Alternatively, if you’re not into water, then you’ll want to take a hike along the coastline and find out what there is on offer in New Zealand’s smallest national park.

I’d advise setting aside a two to three days to really explore this area, doing some hiking, and seeking out the wildlife opportunities on offer, such as penguin watching or getting up close with fur seals. Then, head further north to Golden Bay – home to the 26 kilometre long Farewell spit, which is New Zealand’s longest sandspit.

This is one of New Zealand’s most diverse areas for birdlife, but if birds don’t get your engine running, then wandering the dunes as windswept sands caress your ankles and azure skies meet endless ocean all around surely will.

Week 3 – West coast of the South Island

Ok, so I’m playing fast and loose with how many days there are in a week, but I’m not expecting you to be following this guide to the letter. Take it as a template to dream upon, and build your dream trip around it. Now, let’s head to:

Days 14 – 15: Karamea for a laid back vibe, pounding seas, and the amazing rock formations of the Oparara Basin

For reasons of time, many visitors to New Zealand miss out Karamea , which, like missing out the East Cape, seems to me to be an oversight. This is a quirky little laid back town on the far north of the west coast of the island, which requires a bit of a detour to visit, as the only way there is a one way road up from Westport.

Most adventurers shirk this trip, and head south for the grand glaciers. We’re going to get to those, fear not. But first, lets try out some whitebait, and visit Australasia’s largest free standing limestone arch.

To get to Karamea from Golden Bay you have to go back on yourself a way until you hit state highway six, which will take you over to the wild west coast. Turn north instead of south via Westport, and follow the road parallel to the stretch of sand known as the Karamea Bight, with a gorgeous scenic drive through the mountains thrown in, before you emerge in the peaceful plain that is home to Karamea .

In Karamea you need to try out the whitebait (the towns principal attraction), and take some time to explore the Oparara Basin, which is a geological marvel about an hours drive north in the hills. Here you will find hollowed out limestone caves, arches spanning over 200 metres in length and a place known as the Moria Gate. Worth the detour, I assure you.

Day 16 – 18: Glaciers , Mountains and Possum Pie . Time to get epic on the West Coast 

It’s now time to head south, and start to take in some of New Zealand’s serious masterpieces. I’m talking of course about the glaciers that can be found breaking free from the mighty spine of the southern alps, which stretch from one end of the isle to the other.

On your way down to the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, you’ll pass by the Pancake Rocks , weird shaped rocks which look just like stacks of pancakes. If you’re lucky, it might even be sunny when you try to photograph them . You’ll also have the opportunity to stop off at the Possum place, and learn more about this introduced pest than you ever thought possible. Then eat it, in a pie.

Finally, with the incredible backdrop of the southern alps to motivate you on, you’re going to come to one of New Zealand’s serious highlights, the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.

There are a multitude of ways to experience these glaciers, from a short walk to just take a look at them, through to scenic flights and guided glacier walks.Whatever you choose to do, you will not fail to be inspired by quite how insignificant man is compared to the might of nature.

Whilst you’re in the area, you’ll also want to check out the Mirror Lake (Lake Matheson), for gorgeous photography opportunities of stunning reflected alpine scenery. Because why not?

Days 19 – 20: Across the Haast Pass to Wanaka & Queenstown

Glaciers dusted off, it’s time to head back across the spiney southern alps at one of the few crossing points, this one being the Haast Pass . This is another glorious bit of road through gorgeous alpine scenery, with the Mount Aspiring National Park providing the back drop. As well as incredible mountain vistas, there are also lakes galore to be impressed by.

If you choose, you could stop off at Wanaka on the way across for a break, and take a wander along the lake. This is principally a skiing town, and is busiest in Winter, but there is plenty of scenery and hiking to enjoy all year round.

Then, head down to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown , where if there’s anything you could imagine your body being made to do, the Kiwi’s will have invented it, given it a name, and be willing to charge you to do it in Queenstown. Fun for everyone except your wallet.

Week 4 – Back to the mountains, and the home stretch to Christchurch

Days 21 – 23; te anau & the awe inspiring milford sound  .

There’s a list in New Zealand, of the top 100 things that every native must do before they die, and visiting Milford Sound and seeing Mitre Peak is number one on that list. Since we’ve got a month instead of a lifetime, it’s a no-brainer that this one has made it into our itinerary as well.

It’s a bit of a drive from Queenstown, as unfortunately the mountains didn’t erode in quite the perfect way to create a logical transport route, but the drive, like so many trips in New Zealand , is worth it in of itself.

There are loads of things to see as you drive in, and the landscape changes dramatically as you drive along, from grassy plains to towering mountains. I’d advise stopping at the Te Anau DOC office for up to date route information and attraction opening times.

Once you get to Milford Sound , you are going to take a cruise. You are going to see mile high mountains, waterfalls cascading hundreds of metres over cliffs into the sea, and you are going to realise how incredibly glad you are to be alive. Because Milford Sound really is that special. Take as much time as you can to visit this special place, and surrounding attractions, because it is worth it. Read more about visiting Milford, including advice on cruises, weather and getting here, in my Milford Sound post .

Days 24 – 27: To Mount Cook , for a mighty impressive bit of mountain 

You may think that by now you’ve had enough of mountains, and you want a bit of break. And that’s cool. If you want, instead of heading back inland, you’re welcome to pop out of Te Anau, and spend some time exploring the coast, with a trip to the Catlins , or some time in Dunedin . I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to diversify. Even if it meant you might miss sights like this:

Because for me, the southern alps are the most impressive sight in New Zealand, and none is so impressive as Mount Cook , which towers above all his brethren at just shy of 4000m. This is the mountain that Hillary cut his teeth on before tacking Everest. I promise you, however many mountains you think I’ve taken you to on this trip – you need to do this one too.

It’s a fair old drive up from Milford Sound to Mount Cook, so you’ll probably want to break it up a bit. Maybe a stop off in quaint little Arrowtown , a historic gold mining village just past Queenstown, would be nice.

Once you get to Mount Cook, I can recommend taking on some of the short hikes in the area. The excellent DOC office can fill you in on all the details, as well as weather conditions and safety advice – this is a high up alpine region after all. There’s even a posh hotel if that’s your thing.

Personally, I can recommend the three – four hour hooker valley walk which takes you as close to Mount Cook as you can get, as well as the walk to the Tasman Glacier and lake . Both offer incredible landscapes with not too much effort.

Days 28 – 30: Across to Christchurch, and some relaxing in a French style  

Ok, you’re running out of time in New Zealand. It’s time to turn your nose to the coast, and high tail it to Christchurch, not forgetting to stop off at the above pictured Lake Tekapo on your way for a last view of spectacular southern alp scenery reflected in the eerie blue of a glacial lake.

Christchurch, as you are probably aware, was very badly damaged in the earthquake of 2011, which caused widespread destruction, loss of life, and serious damage to property. The city is much recovered since then, but continues to undergo construction work as it turns itself into a garden city, so it may not be as accessible as it once was.

All is not lost, though. Just outside Christchurch you will find the Banks Peninsula and the charming French inspired town of Akaroa , which is just the perfect place to relax for however many days you have left on this incredible journey, take in some local air, and perhaps visit one of New Zealand’s most scenic toilets.

Then, return your hire car, hop on a plane, and pat yourself on the back. You did it!

The End! Well done!

Whew! That’s it for my round up of my ideal one month road trip itinerary in New Zealand. As always, a month is never going to be enough, but you should be able to see a lot of what this country has to offer in the time available.

New Zealand Road Trip Map

Here’s a map of this road trip to help you plan. You can also see this map on Google Maps here .

New Zealand Road Trip Overview

• Day 1: Rotorua – Volcanic Wonderland and Cultural Experience
• Day 2 – 4: East Cape – Deserted wilderness and spectacular coastal scenery
• Day 7: Wellington
• Days 10 – 13: Abel Tasman and Golden Bay for sea kayaking along the coast and amazing birdlife
• Days 14 – 15: Karamea for a laid back vibe, pounding seas, and the amazing rock formations of the Oparara Basin
• Day 16 – 18: West Coast:  Glaciers, Mountains and Possum Pie. Time to get epic on the West Coast
• Days 19 – 20: Wanaka & Queenstown for adventure
• Days 21 – 23: Te Anau & Milford Sound 
• Days 24 – 27: To Mount Cook , for a mighty impressive bit of mountain
• Days 28 – 30: Christchurch , and some relaxing in a French style

Further Reading

If you found this post helpful, you might like to check out my New Zealand guide section of the site, where I offer all kinds of advice, from must see attractions , through to awesome day hikes , as well as practicalities such as buying a vehicle , finding a job and even finding free internet .

For other reading, a fellow blogger wrote an excellent guide to your first time in New Zealand , which I found to be invaluable for my trip.

If you’d like some more resources to further plan your trip , then the following should help:

• This collection of New Zealand travel guides on Amazon.com ( Amazon UK for EU readers )
• The Lonely Planet Guide to New Zealand on Amazon.com ( UK / EU link )
• The Rough Guide to New Zealand on Amazon.com ( UK / EU link)

Enjoy – and if you have any feedback on this monster of a post, do share it in the comments below!

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 25 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Veronika says

4th October 2022 at 12:46 pm

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to New Zealand again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Laurence Norah says

4th October 2022 at 5:11 pm

Thanks very much Veronika – I hope you get back to New Zealand again soon!

Samuel Birch says

2nd December 2019 at 12:21 pm

I would love to travel in New Zealand as I believe that it is the most incredible place in the world to spend quality time with family or friends. Great Blog!! Keep sharing.

2nd December 2019 at 2:51 pm

Thanks very much Samuel – I hope you do get to visit New Zealand 😀

Deborah Brown says

13th March 2019 at 1:00 am

Hi guys, This is a fabulous, very helpful and informative blog, all of your comments and recommendations are really useful and the photos are fantastic. It will be quite a while before I can take such an amazing trip and I wanted to get an idea of what there was and the best approach to plan it (and then start saving hard!!) so thank you very much as this will definitely help me design my journey through what I feel is an amazing land. Best wishes to you both. Kind regards Deborah

13th March 2019 at 9:52 am

Hi Deborah!

Our pleasure, we’re delighted you found it useful. Good luck with the adventure!

Andrea O'Rafferty says

12th February 2019 at 4:11 am

Hi guys My friend and I followed your advice and guide to do the NC500 in September. It was invaluable. Scotland is so beautiful. We are off to New Zealand next January and I’m so pleased I’ve seen your blog. My question is we have an extra week to spare. Have you any suggestions as to how to spend it ? Thanks Andrea ps we are in our 60’s

12th February 2019 at 5:35 pm

Thanks for your comment, we’re delighted you were able to use our content to plan your trip!

So for New Zealand, if I had an extra week I would give that extra time to the north island. Many people rush to the south island, which certainly is very beautiful, but there’s lots to see on the north island too. So I’d suggest heading to the north of the island, then around the east cape. You could also cross the island and head to the Taranaki region, and the famous glow worm caves. Wellington is a nice city to spend a bit more time in as well.

I hope this helps a bit. I’m sure you’ll have no trouble finding more to do than I have listed here though!

28th November 2018 at 11:19 am

Thank you so much! The post is super useful.

28th November 2018 at 11:33 am

My pleasure Irene 😀 Have a wonderful trip!

Jessie says

19th October 2018 at 11:36 am

Love this!!! I’m visiting in a few weeks! Will probably arrive around the 17th or 18th of November. If I plan to stay in hostels and an occasional splurge in a nicer place… do you think i need to plan in advance? I’m doing that in Australia now with Air BNBs, and while I like having plans, I kinda like the idea in New Zealand of figuring it out as I go. Very different than Australia!

19th October 2018 at 2:45 pm

Hey Jessie 🙂

That should be ok, just be aware that you are coming into the summer in New Zealand so it will be a bit busier than average. But see how you go on the first few nights, which should give you an idea of the feasibility of your plan over the remainder of your trip 🙂

have a great time!

19th August 2018 at 11:31 pm

Thank you This is a wonderful article with great information. A fabulous reference as too where to get started.

20th August 2018 at 11:09 am

Our pleasure Lori – have a wonderful time in New Zealand 🙂

10th August 2018 at 3:12 pm

Can someone give me an expected budget for 2 people for this itinerary or very similar?

Paul Marshall says

25th June 2018 at 8:51 pm

Loving this guide. Heading back to New Zealand for my 3rd time in Feb and always keen to hear from others on their experience. So many places to visit.

25th June 2018 at 9:25 pm

Thanks Paul – it is a wonderful country for sure. Have a wonderful trip!

Dimitri Pagot says

3rd March 2017 at 10:36 pm

Exactly what I needed for planning the adventure of my life ! 🙂 Thanks a lot for the tips and all the itineraries, this is so helpful ! Thank you again ! Departure : August 2018 ! 🙂

Laurence says

4th March 2017 at 10:54 am

Awesome! Have an amazing trip 😀

harvard_staff says

31st December 2016 at 2:11 am

this is EXACTLY what I needed to begin planning our “trip of a lifetime” to New Zealand in a year….thanks so much!

31st December 2016 at 10:05 am

Perfect! My pleasure 😀 Have an amazing trip!

Bethaney says

14th February 2016 at 9:25 pm

As a Kiwi, I think this looks like a great itinerary. I’m pleased to see you include so much of the West Coast of the South Island in your itinerary. 🙂

Gabrielle Cormier says

19th July 2015 at 10:26 pm

Great article and tips 🙂 I’m going to NZ in November and I’m wondering how long in advance I should book my car rental and campsites (I’m bringing my tent)?

30th June 2015 at 10:06 pm

Hi Pedro – if you click on any of the images you get a slideshow. I also share a lot of photos from all my trips on the sites facebook page: http://facebook.com/findingtheuniverse 🙂

30th June 2015 at 10:05 pm

Hi Davey. I can’t argue with that, I actually lived up on in the Tongariro National Park for five months and loved it, as climbed Ngauruhoe as well! It’s certainly something folks should consider as part of this trip, although likely at the expense of seeing something else. There’s just so much awesome in New Zealand! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

• New Zealand Tourism
• New Zealand Hotels
• New Zealand Bed and Breakfast
• New Zealand Vacation Rentals
• Flights to New Zealand
• New Zealand Restaurants
• Things to Do in New Zealand
• New Zealand Travel Forum
• New Zealand Photos
• All New Zealand Hotels
• New Zealand Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in New Zealand
• New Zealand
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Welcome thoughts on our initial 3 week itinerary! - New Zealand Forum

• South Pacific    
• New Zealand    

Welcome thoughts on our initial 3 week itinerary!

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• South Pacific forums
• New Zealand forum

Hi talented Trip Advisor advisors!

We're planning a 3 week trip to NZ over the Christmas and NY holidays and would love feedback on our initial plan. We're a family of 4 (mid-40 adults and boys ages 10 and 12). We enjoy adventures, great food (and wine for the adults), culture, architecture, history, and politics. We are good being on the go and also taking it slow.

We're good with long roadtrips and will do them, as needed, or if there's something worthwhile to see along the drive. But if there's a smarter way to get from A to B, we'd rather do that.

We'd love any general feedback on this plan, along with thoughts on the addition of Kaikoura.

Finally, we have an extra day to allocate somewhere. Where should that be??

1 Fri, Dec 20 Land in Auckland (10a-ish)

2 Sat, Dec 21 Auckland

3 Sun, Dec 22 Matamata and Rotorua

4 Mon, Dec 23 Rotorua

5 Tue, Dec 24 Wellington

6 Wed, Dec 25 Wellington

7 Thu, Dec 26 Wellington

8 Fri, Dec 27 Ferry to South Island / Nelson

9 Sat, Dec 28 West Coast drive to Franz Josef

10 Sun, Dec 29 Franz Josef

11 Mon, Dec 30 To Queenstown via Wanaka

12 Tue, Dec 31 Queenstown

13 Wed, Jan 1 Queenstown

14 Thu, Jan 2 Queenstown with day trip to Milford Sound

15 Fri, Jan 3 Central Otago and Aoraki / Mount Cook

16 Sat, Jan 4 To Christchurch

17 Sun, Jan 5 OOPS! I missed this day when planning. So, we have another day we can allocate somewhere along this trip!

18 Mon, Jan 6 Kaikoura

19 Tue, Jan 7 Kaikoura

20 Wed, Jan 8 Kaikoura

21 Thu, Jan 9 Fly back to AKL

22 Fri, Jan 10 From home from AKL (3p-ish)

Please send over any and all thoughts! Thank you advance for your guidance!

21 replies to this topic

Thanks, all! We'll go with that one. Now about to start figuring out the details of what to do when we're in each location. I appreciate the suggestions already and have noted them. I'm sure I'll be back with specific questions (and will post in a new post).

• Itinerary help 1:04 am
• Queenstown winter recommendations 12:57 am
• North Island New Zealand itinerary ideas 12:55 am
• 8 nights in South Island 12:51 am
• Itinerary suggestions for a 2 week south Island trip 10:19 pm
• InterCity and GreatSights New Zealand premium coach services 9:14 pm
• Planning First Trip to NZ - Solo Traveler 7:13 pm
• Fairlie to Akaroa 3:12 pm
• Welcome thoughts on our initial 3 week itinerary! 1:08 pm
• North Island Itinerary yesterday
• Driving Conditions - Next Week road trip SI yesterday
• leaving auckland transport and departure tax yesterday
• Aurora yesterday
• Can I drop off and pick up walkers at Tongariro crossing. May 11, 2024
• Car Rentals - Do NOT Use Apex Car Rentals 100 replies
• Weather in October? 11 replies
• air new zealand premium economy vs skycouch 37 replies
• Beware of Omega Car Rental in Auckland! 9 replies
• Milford sound vs doubtful sound 7 replies
• Things to Buy 13 replies
• One week in New Zealand in January - where should we go??? 6 replies
• 2 week south / north island trip itinerary 16 replies
• 2 Weeks New Zealand - February or March 2012 5 replies
• best time to visit 5 replies

New Zealand Hotels and Places to Stay

• Why Visit NZ?
• I love NZ - destination information for travellers
• Important info for requirements to travel to NZ
• Driving in New Zealand
• How long to drive
• What to wear
• Kiwirail - Best to book in New Zealand
• Campervan Around NZ
• Rental Car Insurance - when it all goes wrong
• Caves - what and where
• Rental Car Insurance - the pros and cons
• New Zealand Road Trips
• NZ Trip Reports
• $400 Fine for Bringing Food into NZ
• Self contained campers
• How much time between international and domestic flights
• No drones in national parks or 4km of flight paths or airports
• Freedom camping and self containment

• Find an Expedition
• Voyage Calendar
• Travel Advisors
• Manage My Booking
• Call Now: +1-833-826-5828

Unveiling the Mysteries of Australian and New Zealand Subantarctic Islands: A Guide for Travel Advisors

Home > Blog > Travel Advisors > Unveiling the Mysteries of Australian and New Zealand Subantarctic Islands: A Guide for Travel Advisors

Last updated on May 13 th , 2024

As travel advisors, you are undoubtedly aware of the growing fascination with unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Many Travellers yearn for experiences that transcend the ordinary, seeking out adventures that promise unparalleled excitement and discovery. Enter Aurora Expeditions’ latest offering: our  Subantarctic Discovery  expedition aboard the new purpose-built  Douglas Mawson .

This expedition represents our return to the Subantarctic Islands for the first time in 13 years. Protected for their unique environments and significant ecological value, the Subantarctic islands are an under-visited pocket of the world and perfect for the Aurora Expeditions traveller. The rugged beauty of the islands, thrills of its remoteness, and incredible wildlife species – many endemic to the region – make this an Antipodean trip to remember.

With five Subantarctic Island groups – Snares, Auckland, Campbell, Antipodes, and Bounty – there’s an abundance of natural wonders to explore. While the steep cliffs, rocky islets, misty landscapes, and unique flora appeal, the wildlife makes these expeditions exceptional.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the allure of the  Australian and New Zealand Subantarctic Islands  expeditions with Aurora Expeditions and provide you with valuable tips on how to effectively sell these awe-inspiring journeys to your diverse clientele.

Understanding the appeal of the Subantarctic Islands

The appeal of the Australian and New Zealand Subantarctic Islands lies in their pristine beauty, rich biodiversity, and profound connection to both natural history and human exploration. Read on for an in-depth exploration of each island and why they captivate the hearts of adventurous travellers.

Stewart Island (Rakiura)

As the northernmost of the Subantarctic Islands, Stewart Island offers a captivating blend of rugged coastline and ancient forests. Visitors are enchanted by the sight of blue and yellow-eyed penguins gracefully navigating the pebbled shoreline, while white-capped albatross soar majestically overhead. The island’s untouched landscapes evoke a sense of timelessness, transporting travellers to a bygone era when humans lived in harmony with nature.

Fiordland (Te Rua-o-te-moko)

Fiordland’s breathtaking glacial fjords, deep lakes, and snow-capped Southern Alps create a dramatic backdrop for exploration. Beyond the stunning scenery, the opportunity to encounter playful bottlenose dolphins, lounging fur seals, and migrating humpback whales adds an element of excitement to the journey. Navigating through this picturesque region offers a profound appreciation for the raw beauty of New Zealand’s southernmost reaches.

Snares Islands (Tini Heke)

Situated 200 kilometres (120 miles) off the coast of New Zealand, the Snares Islands boast a pristine ecosystem teeming with diverse seabird colonies and native Snares penguins. Protected as a pest-free sanctuary, the islands offer a rare opportunity to witness untouched wilderness in its purest form. Exploring the rugged coastline by Zodiac boat allows travellers to encounter curious sea lions and majestic Buller albatross in their natural habitat.

Macquarie Islands

Often referred to affectionately as “Macca,” the Macquarie Islands offer a unique blend of natural wonders and historical significance. Home to four species of penguins and over 3.5 million seabirds, the island’s unspoiled landscape showcases craggy coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and moss-covered valleys. Beyond its natural beauty, Macquarie Island holds a special place in Antarctic polar history, serving as the site of the first radio signal transmission from Antarctica to the rest of the world in 1911.

Visit to Macquarie Island on Subantarctic Discovery is subject to permits.

Campbell, Bounty, Antipodes, and Auckland Islands

What kind of clients will a Subantarctic Island voyage appeal to?

The allure of the Subantarctic Islands lies in their untamed wilderness, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and profound historical significance, making them a must-visit destination for intrepid explorers seeking an unforgettable adventure.

• Clients who have a deep appreciation for the natural world and are eager to immerse themselves in pristine wilderness environments will find the Subantarctic Islands irresistible. These types of clients are drawn to the opportunity to witness unique ecosystems, observe diverse wildlife species in their natural habitats, and learn from expert guides about the ecology and conservation of these remote islands.
• Clients who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations will be enticed by the rugged and remote nature of the Subantarctic Islands. They relish the chance to explore untamed landscapes, navigate through challenging waters, and embark on exhilarating Zodiac excursions to remote shorelines.
• Clients who value learning and cultural enrichment will appreciate the educational opportunities offered by a Subantarctic Island voyage. They are eager to engage with expert naturalists, historians, and scientists who provide in-depth insights into the ecology, geology, and human history of these remote and isolated islands.
• Photographers who specialise in capturing stunning images of wildlife and landscapes will be attracted to the Subantarctic Islands for their unparalleled photographic opportunities. From charismatic penguins and soaring albatrosses to dramatic coastal cliffs, these islands offer a wealth of subjects to capture through the lens.
• In particular, birding enthusiasts will enjoy these islands with….

Subantarctic Island voyage appeals to a diverse clientele united by their love of nature, adventure, history, education, and conservation. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of the most remote and untouched regions of the world, leaving a lasting impression on all who embark on this extraordinary journey.

Why should your clients explore the Subantarctic Islands with Aurora Expeditions?

• With over 33 years of experience exploring the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations, Aurora Expeditions has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional journeys that go beyond the ordinary.
• Our three new purpose-built ships serve as a comfortable base camp for Subantarctic Islands adventures. Our ships carry on average 132 passengers on the Greg Mortimer and the Sylvia Earle , and on average 154 passengers on the Douglas Mawson (setting sail in 2025). These vessels offer an intimate and immersive experience that is impossible to replicate on larger cruise ships. This allows for deeper connections with fellow travellers and greater flexibility in itinerary planning.
• With a team of seasoned expedition leaders, naturalists, and historians, Aurora Expeditions ensures that every aspect of the journey is curated to perfection. From lectures on the Subantarctic islands’ geology to help with camera settings, your clients are in capable hands every step of the way.
• Aurora Expeditions is committed to sustainability and responsible tourism and committed to creating ambassadors for the planet. For environmentally-conscious clients, knowing that their journey contributes to conservation efforts may be a decisive factor.

In a world where authentic experiences are increasingly sought after, the Subantarctic Islands stand as a testament to untouched wilderness and unparalleled adventure. By partnering with Aurora Expeditions, travel advisors can unveil the mysteries of these remote and captivating islands, offering their clients journeys that transcend the ordinary and leave them forever changed.

Explore our Subantarctic Isalands' Program

Our carefully crafted itineraries to Australia and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands present an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the unique character of each island. We’ve hand-picked some of our favourites for you below, or to view the full range of itineraries, explore our latest  brochure . Don’t hesitate to reach out to your Business Development Manager or access resources and sales tools in our  Travel Advisors Portal .

Ross Sea Odyssey

Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Ross Sea Odyssey expedition.Experience one of the most remote, historic sectors of the deep South in comfort on this exploratory expedition aboard the luxurious Douglas Mawson....

From USD $ 25,916.00 /pp

Mawson's Antarctica

Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Mawson’s Antarctica expedition, sailing on the Douglas Mawson!Retrace the historic voyage of Sir Douglas Mawson’s Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE) and experience the grandeur of remote East...

From USD $ 25,196.00 /pp

Subantarctic Discovery

Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Subantarctic Discovery expedition.  Discover the primordial beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Australian and New Zealand Subantarctic Islands on this in-depth exploration of a most rugged...

From USD $ 12,556.00 /pp

25-26 Antarctic Season Brochure

Dive into the world’s wildest places in our brand new brochure. Choose from 32 voyages, including 8 new itineraries aboard one of our three purpose-built small ships, including the newly-launched Douglas Mawson .

You may also like

Unlocking arctic wonders: selling greenland voyages with aurora expeditions.

Welcome, valued travel advisors, to a thrilling journey into the icy realms of Greenland with Aurora Expeditions! As the demand …

Navigating Uncharted Waters: Selling Northwest Passage Voyages with Aurora Expeditions

In the ever-evolving landscape of travel, clients are increasingly seeking unique and extraordinary experiences. As a travel advisor, presenting opportunities …

Unlocking the Mysteries of the Antarctic Circle: A Guide for Travel Advisors

As travel advisors, you are undoubtedly aware of the growing fascination with unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Clients seeking extraordinary experiences …

Unlock the Untamed Beauty of Iceland: Selling Iceland Voyages with Aurora Expeditions

As travel advisors, your mission is to curate experiences that leave a lasting imprint on your clients’ souls. For those …

Request a customised quote

Privacy Overview

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

DigiMarCon New Zealand 2024 | Hilton Auckland

Join industry professionals in-person or online for a two-day immersive experience at DigiMarCon New Zealand 2024. Discover the latest digital marketing best practices, stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends, and explore practical solutions to enhance your strategies. Network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights into the next generation of technology and innovation, including Internet, Mobile, AdTech, MarTech, and SaaS Technology. This prestigious event will take place at the Hilton Auckland, located at 147 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. From August 15th to August 16th, 2024, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with top-notch speakers, exchange knowledge, and expand their professional network. Don't miss out on this incredible event that promises to shape the future of digital marketing. Join us at DigiMarCon New Zealand 2024 to unlock the potential of your marketing strategies and embrace the power of technology and innovation.

Provided by Eelis | Published May 13, 2024

Are you interested in DigiMarCon New Zealand 2024?

Recommended products for digimarcon new zealand 2024 | hilton auckland, park hyatt auckland, sofitel auckland viaduct harbour, intercontinental auckland, an ihg hotel, sea life kelly tarlton's aquarium, auckland war memorial museum, queen street, more contents about auckland.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

Looking for deals

Southern Alps New Zealand

Sunset over Christchurch

Wanaka Tree in Autumn

Arthurs Pass National Park

Akaroa, Banks Peninsula

Hiking local terrain

Lake Tekapo at dawn

New Zealand coast lines

Akaroa Dolphins

South Island New Zealand Road Trip | Customisable Itinerary | 10 Days Car Rental

Embark on an unparalleled journey through the South Island, where every turn of the road unveils the spectacular beauty and thrilling adventures this country has to offer. From the enchanting Walter Peak to the awe-inspiring Milford Sound.

Pricing and Conditions

We can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Get in touch to build your dream holiday with us. Instant quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our New Zealand touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and are subject to change.

Cancellations by the client must be made in writing and are subject to the following charges: More than 45 days prior to departure: 80% of the total booking is refunded to the client 30 -45 days prior to departure: 50% of the total booking is refunded to the client Less than 30 days prior to departure results in no refund available. Cancellations made by Tara will result in a full refund of any payments made specifically for the cancelled service.

Set out on a spectacular journey through the South Island with Tara Travel, where epic landscapes and serene beauty await at every turn. This road trip is designed to showcase the island's most iconic sights, from the mist-shrouded fjords of Milford Sound to the sun-soaked vineyards of Marlborough. Navigate the adventure capital of Queenstown, where bungee jumping and jet boating thrill, and then unwind in the soothing hot pools of Hanmer Springs. Capture the majestic scenery of the Southern Alps and the stark beauty of the Canterbury Plains. This tailored adventure includes leisurely drives along the coastal roads with stops at hidden gems and bustling market towns, offering a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.

Opening times

Open in larger map

Language support

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

The content on this page was created by South Island New Zealand Road Trip | Customisable Itinerary | 10 Days Car Rental

This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .