10-Day Family Adventure from Auckland to Wellington Itinerary

Begin your day with a trip to Waitakere Ranges. This lush rainforest offers numerous walking trails and stunning waterfalls. Stop by the Arataki Visitor Centre for information on the best trails and picnic spots. Enjoy breakfast at the nearby Coco's Cantina, known for its hearty meals.

Head over to Piha Beach in the afternoon. This black sand beach is famous for its surf and rugged beauty. Have lunch at Baduzzi, which offers delicious Italian cuisine that even picky eaters will love.

Conclude your day with a visit to Auckland War Memorial Museum. This museum provides fascinating insights into New Zealand's history and culture. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Cassia, which serves contemporary Indian cuisine in a stylish setting.

Drive from Auckland to Rotorua (approx 3 hours). Start your Rotorua adventure with a visit to Te Puia, home to geothermal wonders like geysers and hot springs as well as Maori cultural experiences. Have breakfast at Capers Epicurean, known for its fresh local produce.

In the afternoon, explore the enchanting forest of Redwoods Forest Whakarewarewa. There are various walking trails suitable for all fitness levels. For lunch, head over to Urbano Bistro which offers a range of dishes catering to different tastes.

End your day with relaxation at the famous Polynesian Spa, where you can soak in natural hot mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. For dinner, dine at Stratosfare Rotorua, which offers stunning views along with its delicious buffet.

Drive from Rotorua to Taupo (approx 1 hour). Start your day with an exhilarating experience at the famous Huka Falls (Huka Falls). The sheer power of these falls is awe-inspiring. Enjoy breakfast at nearby cafe,  Victoria's Cafe Kitchen Bar.

In the afternoon, take part in an adventurous jet boating experience on Lake Taupo (Hukafalls 30-Minute Jet Boat Experience). For lunch, head over to Dixie Brown's which offers great food options including vegetarian dishes.

Conclude your day by visiting Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings (Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings), accessible only by boat or kayak - it's an unforgettable sight! Enjoy dinner at The Brantry for some fine dining.

Start your day with a visit to Craters of the Moon. This geothermal area features bubbling craters and steaming vents, offering a unique landscape to explore. Enjoy breakfast at Spoon and Paddle, known for its hearty and delicious meals.

In the afternoon, head to Lake Taupo for some water-based activities. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake. For lunch, stop by Plateau Bar + Eatery, which offers a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes.

Conclude your day with a relaxing visit to Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa. Soak in the therapeutic hot pools surrounded by beautiful scenery. For dinner, dine at Waterside Restaurant & Bar, which offers stunning views of Lake Taupo along with its delicious menu.

Drive from Taupo to Napier (approx 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to Mission Estate Winery, one of New Zealand's oldest wineries. Enjoy a wine tasting session and learn about the history of winemaking in the region. Have breakfast at Mission Estate Winery Restaurant, which offers delightful dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Napier Art Deco Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour is perfect for exploring Napier's unique architecture and history at your own pace. For lunch, head over to Bistronomy, known for its innovative cuisine that even picky eaters will appreciate.

Napier Prison Self-Guided Audio Tour provides an intriguing look into New Zealand's oldest prison. End your day with dinner at Pacifica Restaurant, which offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood.

Hawke's Bay Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour is a great way to explore the region's beautiful vineyards while enjoying some exercise. Start your morning with breakfast at Emporium Eatery & Bar, known for its delicious breakfast options.

Napier Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour takes you on an adventure to see one of the largest gannet colonies in the world. For lunch, stop by The Thirsty Whale Bar & Restaurant, which offers a variety of dishes including seafood and vegetarian options.

Private Art Deco Napier, Te Mata peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting is perfect for ending your day with stunning views and delicious local produce. Enjoy dinner at The Old Church Restaurant & Bar for an unforgettable dining experience.

Drive from Napier to Wellington (approx 4 hours). Start your Wellington adventure by visiting Wellington Cable Car, offering panoramic views of the city as you ascend up Kelburn Hill. Have breakfast at Field & Green for some hearty morning fare.

Explore Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa), one of New Zealand’s most famous museums featuring interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for teenagers too! For lunch, head over to Shepherd which offers creative dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

End your day by taking a stroll through Cuba Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere filled with shops, cafes, street performers etc., perfect place for shopping enthusiasts! Dine at Ortega Fish Shack to enjoy some fresh seafood delicacies.

Start your day with a visit to Zealandia Ecosanctuary. This urban eco-sanctuary is home to some of New Zealand's rarest wildlife and offers beautiful walking trails. Enjoy breakfast at Charley Noble Eatery & Bar, known for its delicious breakfast options.

Weta Workshop is a must-visit for movie buffs, offering behind-the-scenes tours of the famous special effects workshop. For lunch, head over to Hippopotamus Restaurant & Bar, which offers a unique blend of French and New Zealand cuisine.

Wellington Cable Car provides stunning views of the city as you ascend up Kelburn Hill. End your day with dinner at Logan Brown, one of Wellington's top-rated restaurants offering exquisite cuisine in an elegant setting.

Mt. Victoria Lookout offers panoramic views of Wellington and is a great spot for some final family photos. Have breakfast at Capitol Restaurant, known for its hearty morning fare.

Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa) is worth another visit if you missed any exhibits or want to explore more. For lunch, head over to Boulcott Street Bistro, which offers a variety of dishes catering to different tastes.

Cuba Street is perfect for some last-minute shopping and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your trip with dinner at Ortega Fish Shack, where you can enjoy fresh seafood delicacies before heading back home.