7-Day Scenic Road Trip through New Zealand Itinerary

Begin your day with an adventurous start by taking the Christchurch Gondola. The gondola ride offers stunning panoramic views of Christchurch, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Canterbury Plains.

After descending from the gondola, visit Hagley Park. This large urban park is perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic. You can also explore its beautiful lakes and gardens.

In the evening, head to Sumner Beach for a peaceful sunset view. The beach is a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Depart from Christchurch early in the morning and drive towards Lake Tekapo. Upon arrival, visit Church of the Good Shepherd, an iconic landmark offering picturesque views of Lake Tekapo and surrounding mountains.

Spend your afternoon exploring Lake Tekapo. Take a leisurely walk along its shores or enjoy some water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

As night falls, experience the renowned Lake Tekapo Stargazing Experience. The clear skies make it one of the best places in New Zealand for stargazing.

Start your day with an exhilarating activity: Mount Cook 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight. This flight offers breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park's glaciers and peaks.

After your flight, explore more of Mount Cook National Park by taking one of its many hiking trails. A popular choice is the Hooker Valley Track which provides stunning alpine scenery without being too strenuous.

For dinner, head to one of Mount Cook's highly-rated restaurants such as Mount Cook Cafe where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine while reflecting on your day's adventures.

Start your day with a visit to Lake Wanaka. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply taking a leisurely walk along its shores.

In the afternoon, take a scenic flight with Wanaka Scenic Flight with Glacier Landing. This experience provides breathtaking aerial views of the Southern Alps and includes a landing on one of the region's magnificent glaciers.

For dinner, head to Kika, one of Wanaka's top-rated restaurants. Enjoy their innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Skyline Queenstown is the perfect way to start your day. Take the gondola up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Once at the top, you can enjoy various activities such as luge rides or simply soak in the stunning vistas.

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Experience awaits you in the afternoon. This thrilling ride through narrow canyons and over shallow waters is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Fergburger is a must-visit for dinner. Known for its legendary burgers, this iconic eatery offers a variety of delicious options that are sure to satisfy your appetite after an adventurous day.

Queenstown Gardens is an ideal spot for a peaceful morning walk. The beautifully landscaped gardens offer lovely views of Lake Wakatipu and are perfect for unwinding before heading back home.

Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour will be a delightful way to spend your afternoon. Explore some of the region's best wineries, taste exquisite wines, and learn about the local wine-making process.

End your trip with a memorable dinner at Botswana Butchery. This renowned restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with delicious cuisine and stunning lake views, making it the perfect place to reflect on your incredible journey through New Zealand.