12-Day New Zealand Road Trip Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE® Aquarium. Explore fascinating marine life exhibits and learn about ocean conservation. For breakfast, stop by Ortolana, a cozy cafe offering delicious pastries and coffee.

Head to Waitakere Ranges for an afternoon of hiking through lush rainforests and scenic trails. Visit the iconic Arataki Visitor Centre for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a picnic lunch or grab something from a nearby cafe.

For dinner, indulge in fine dining at The Grove, where you can savor contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Afterward, visit Sky City Auckland for entertainment options such as casinos, bars, and live shows.

Drive to Rotorua in the morning (approx. 3 hours). Upon arrival, visit Te Puia, home to geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences. Enjoy breakfast at their on-site cafe.

Explore more of Rotorua's geothermal attractions by visiting Hell's Gate Geothermal Park. Experience mud baths and hot springs while learning about Maori legends associated with this unique landscape. Have lunch at nearby eatery or bring your own picnic.

Dine at Stratosfare Rotorua, which offers stunning views over Lake Rotorua along with delectable dishes made from local ingredients. End your evening with a relaxing soak at the famous Polynesian Spa.

Start your day with an adrenaline rush by experiencing the famous zipline adventure tour:  { A-Rotorua Ultimate Guided Zipline Tour w/ Volcanic Cliff Walk  [166619] }. Grab breakfast beforehand at { R-Ciabatta Cafe and Bakery } to fuel up for your adventure.

After ziplining, head over to { A-Velocity Valley  [16767] } for more thrilling activities like bungy jumping or jet boating! Enjoy lunch on-site or pack some snacks.

For dinner, savor Italian cuisine at { R-Leonardo's Pure Italian }. Conclude your day with an enchanting paddle board glow worm tour:  { A-Paddle Board Glow Worm Tour  [146076] }, providing you with magical nighttime scenery.

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Huka Falls. The powerful waterfall is a must-see attraction in Taupo. For breakfast, head to Victoria's Cafe Kitchen Bar for a hearty meal to start your day.

In the afternoon, explore the geothermal wonderland of Orakei Korako. This hidden gem features geysers, hot springs, and silica terraces. Enjoy lunch at their on-site cafe or bring a picnic.

For dinner, dine at The Brantry, known for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Afterward, take a relaxing evening stroll along the shores of Lake Taupo and enjoy the serene views.

Taupo Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour is an excellent way to start your day. Paddle across Lake Taupo to see these impressive carvings up close. Have breakfast at Spoon and Paddle before heading out.

Taupo Waikato River Jetboating Adventure offers thrilling high-speed rides through narrow canyons and past scenic landscapes. After your adventure, have lunch at Dixie Brown's, which offers great views of the lake.

Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa is perfect for unwinding after an action-packed day. Enjoy dinner at Plateau Bar + Eatery, known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food.

Mission Estate Winery is one of New Zealand's oldest wineries and a great place to start your wine-tasting journey. Have breakfast at their on-site restaurant while enjoying panoramic views of the vineyards.

Church Road Winery offers another fantastic wine-tasting experience with guided tours of their historic cellars. For lunch, visit their restaurant which serves delicious meals paired with fine wines.

Napier Art Deco Bike Ride and Wineries Loop provides a unique way to explore Napier's famous Art Deco architecture while visiting local wineries. End your day with dinner at one of Napier's charming restaurants.

Start your morning with a visit to { A-Napier National Aquarium of New Zealand General Admission   [643792] }. Explore fascinating marine life exhibits before heading out for breakfast at one of Napier’s cozy cafes.

Spend your afternoon cycling along Hawke’s Bay coastlines on { A-Hawke's Bay Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour   [474129] }. Stop by various wineries along the route & enjoy lunch amidst beautiful vineyard settings.

For dinner indulge yourself in local cuisine & fine wines during { A-Napier Wine & Gin Tasting Tour w/ Lunch   [335716] }. Conclude evening by taking leisurely walk along Marine Parade soaking up coastal ambiance.

Start your day with a visit to Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa). This national museum offers a deep dive into New Zealand's history, art, and culture. For breakfast, head to Field & Green, known for its delicious and hearty morning meals.

In the afternoon, take a ride on the iconic Wellington Cable Car to the Wellington Botanic Garden. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens and have lunch at one of the nearby cafes.

For dinner, dine at Ortega Fish Shack, renowned for its fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, explore Cuba Street, famous for its vibrant nightlife and eclectic mix of shops and cafes.

Zealandia Ecosanctuary is a great place to start your day. This urban eco-sanctuary offers guided tours where you can see native wildlife in their natural habitat. Have breakfast at their on-site cafe before exploring.

Weta Workshop is a must-visit for movie buffs. Take a guided tour of this world-famous special effects workshop. For lunch, visit Charley Noble Eatery & Bar, known for its wood-fired dishes.

Wellington Cocktail Discovery Tour & 4 Cocktail Creations offers an exciting way to end your day. Learn how to make cocktails while exploring some of Wellington's best bars. For dinner, head to Hippopotamus, which offers French-inspired cuisine with stunning views over the harbor.

Mt. Victoria Lookout provides panoramic views of Wellington and is perfect for an early morning hike. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at Boulcott Street Bistro, known for its classic New Zealand dishes.

Red Rocks Reserve (Pariwhero) is ideal for an afternoon adventure. Explore rugged coastal landscapes and possibly spot seals along the shore. Have lunch at one of the nearby eateries or pack a picnic.

Zealandia by Night Tour offers a unique opportunity to see nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. Before heading out, dine at Shed 5 Bar & Restaurant, which specializes in seafood and has beautiful waterfront views.

Begin your final day with visit { A-Wellington Botanic Garden   [2384] }. Enjoy peaceful morning walk through beautiful gardens followed by breakfast at nearby cafe.

Spend afternoon exploring { A-City Gallery Wellington   [2378] }, showcasing contemporary art from New Zealand & around world! Have lunch at local eatery.

Conclude trip w/ memorable dinner @ { R-Logan Brown }, renowned fine dining restaurant offering exquisite cuisine! End evening w/ relaxing stroll along waterfront reflecting on amazing journey.