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12 Days Romantic Adventure in New Zealand Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 28Auckland's Iconic Sights and Sounds
Morning
Start your journey in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. Begin with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Auckland Domain, one of the city's oldest parks, featuring beautiful gardens and walking paths. Don't miss the Wintergardens for a touch of tranquility.
Afternoon
Head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum located within the Domain. This museum offers an insightful look into New Zealand's history and Maori culture. For lunch, stop by Ortolana, a highly-rated restaurant known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Evening
In the evening, embark on Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise. This tour offers a romantic setting with stunning views of the city skyline as you enjoy a delicious dinner on board. End your day with a nightcap at The Jefferson, an elegant whiskey bar.
Bedtime
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Exploring Rotorua's Geothermal Wonders
Morning
Travel from Auckland to Rotorua (approx. 3 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser and rich Maori cultural experiences. Explore geothermal wonders and learn about traditional Maori arts and crafts.
Afternoon
After exploring Te Puia, head over to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. This park is known for its colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Enjoy lunch at Third Place Cafe, which offers great views of Lake Rotorua.
Evening
In the evening, experience Maori Hangi Dinner & Concert. This tour provides an authentic Maori cultural experience with traditional performances followed by a hangi feast cooked in earth ovens.
Bedtime
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Adventures in Waitomo Caves
Morning
Drive from Rotorua to Waitomo (approx. 2 hours by car). Begin your day with Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour. Marvel at thousands of glowworms lighting up these famous caves as you glide through on a boat tour.
Afternoon
After exploring the caves, have lunch at Huhu Cafe, known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. Then take some time to explore Ruakuri Cave Walkway for more stunning cave formations.
Evening
Return to Rotorua for dinner at Atrium Restaurant, located within Novotel Rotorua Lakeside Hotel. Enjoy their diverse menu featuring local produce before relaxing back at your accommodation.
Bedtime
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Wellington's Cultural and Natural Highlights
Morning
Start your day with a scenic drive from Rotorua to Wellington (approx. 6 hours by car). Once you arrive, head straight to the iconic Te Papa Tongarewa Museum. This national museum offers a deep dive into New Zealand's natural and cultural history, with interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining.
Afternoon
After your museum visit, take a stroll along the Wellington Waterfront. Enjoy lunch at Shed 5, a waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning harbor views. Post-lunch, visit the Wellington Botanic Garden via the historic Wellington Cable Car. The garden offers beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and panoramic views of the city.
Evening
In the evening, experience Wellington Night Market Tour. This tour takes you through Wellington's vibrant night market scene where you can sample local street food, listen to live music, and shop for unique crafts. End your day with a drink at Havana Bar, a lively spot known for its cocktails and tapas.
Bedtime
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Wine Tasting in Martinborough
Morning
Travel from Wellington to Martinborough (approx. 1.5 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to one of Martinborough's renowned vineyards such as Ata Rangi or Palliser Estate. Enjoy a guided wine tasting session where you'll learn about the region's winemaking process and sample some exquisite wines.
Afternoon
For lunch, dine at Poppies Martinborough, a vineyard restaurant offering delicious meals paired with their own wines. After lunch, continue your wine tour with visits to more local wineries like Te Kairanga or Margrain Vineyard.
Evening
Martinborough Wine Tour is perfect for an evening activity. This tour provides an in-depth look at several vineyards along with tastings and insights from local winemakers. Conclude your day with dinner at Cafe Medici, known for its farm-to-table cuisine.
Bedtime
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Exploring Abel Tasman National Park
Morning
Abel Tasman Kayak Tour is an excellent way to start your day in this stunning national park. Paddle through crystal-clear waters while taking in breathtaking coastal scenery and possibly spotting some wildlife like seals or dolphins.
Afternoon
Abel Tasman Coastal Walk awaits you post-kayaking adventure. This walk offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in New Zealand including golden beaches, lush forests, and serene bays. Pack a picnic lunch from The Smoking Barrel before heading out on this scenic trail.
Evening
After returning from your coastal walk, enjoy dinner at The Mussel Inn, famous for its fresh seafood dishes and craft beers brewed on-site.
Bedtime
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Queenstown's Thrills and Chills
Morning
Start your day with a thrilling adventure in Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Begin with Shotover Jet Boat Ride. This exhilarating ride takes you through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River at high speeds, offering an adrenaline rush like no other.
Afternoon
After your jet boat ride, take a gondola ride up to Bob's Peak for stunning panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, which offers a delicious buffet with breathtaking views. Post-lunch, explore the Skyline Luge for some fun downhill rides.
Evening
In the evening, embark on TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Dinner at Walter Peak. This tour includes a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu on a vintage steamship followed by a gourmet dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm. End your day with a nightcap at Bardeaux, known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive wine list.
Bedtime
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Milford Sound's Majestic Beauty
Morning
Travel from Queenstown to Milford Sound (approx. 4 hours by car). Start your day with Milford Sound Scenic Flight & Cruise. This tour offers an unforgettable experience combining a scenic flight over Fiordland National Park and a cruise through the stunning Milford Sound, often referred to as the 'eighth wonder of the world'.
Afternoon
After your morning tour, enjoy lunch on board during your cruise or at one of the cafes in Milford Sound upon return. Spend some time exploring the area around Milford Sound Visitor Centre or take short walks like The Chasm Walk for more breathtaking scenery.
Evening
Return to Queenstown in the evening and have dinner at Fergburger, famous for its gourmet burgers that are loved by locals and tourists alike. End your day with drinks at The Sundeck, offering great views of Lake Wakatipu.
Bedtime
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Wanaka's Natural Wonders
Morning
Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka (approx. 1 hour by car). Start your day with Rob Roy Glacier Hike. This hike offers spectacular views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine scenery as you make your way through Mount Aspiring National Park.
Afternoon
After your hike, enjoy lunch at Bistro Gentil, known for its French-inspired cuisine and beautiful lake views. Post-lunch, visit Puzzling World where you can explore optical illusions, mazes, and other mind-bending attractions.
Evening
In the evening, experience Wanaka Wine Tour. This tour takes you to some of Wanaka's best wineries where you can sample local wines and learn about winemaking in this picturesque region. Conclude your day with dinner at Francesca's Italian Kitchen, renowned for its authentic Italian dishes.
Bedtime
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Franz Josef Glacier's Icy Wonders
Morning
Start your day with Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike. This tour offers a thrilling helicopter ride over the glacier followed by a guided hike on the ice. You'll get to explore ice caves, crevasses, and other stunning glacial features while learning about the glacier's history and geology.
Afternoon
After your heli hike, enjoy lunch at The Landing, a popular spot known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere. Post-lunch, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see some of New Zealand's rarest wildlife, including the Rowi kiwi.
Evening
In the evening, relax in the Glacier Hot Pools, where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by lush rainforest. For dinner, head to King Tiger, which offers a fusion of Indian and Thai cuisine.
Bedtime
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Hokitika's Coastal Charms
Morning
Hokitika Gorge Walk is a must-do activity to start your day. This walk takes you through stunning scenery with turquoise blue waters and lush green forests. The swing bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities.
Afternoon
After your walk, have lunch at Stumpers Bar & Cafe, known for its casual dining and delicious food. Post-lunch, visit the Hokitika Glass Studio & Gallery where you can watch glassblowing demonstrations and shop for unique glass art pieces.
Evening
Hokitika Glow Worm Dell Tour is perfect for an evening activity. This tour takes you to a magical dell where thousands of glowworms light up the night. Conclude your day with dinner at Ocean View Restaurant, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Bedtime
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Christchurch's Urban Delights
Morning
Christchurch City Tour is an excellent way to start your final day in New Zealand. This tour covers key attractions like Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, and the Transitional 'Cardboard' Cathedral.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar, known for its contemporary cuisine and stylish setting. After lunch, take a leisurely punt ride on the Avon River or explore Hagley Park for some relaxation amidst nature.
Evening
End your trip with a memorable dining experience at 50 Bistro, located within The George Hotel. Known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Bedtime
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