New Zealand Adventure 21 Days Itinerary

Travel from Auckland to Rotorua (approximately 3 hours by car). Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser and Maori cultural experiences. Explore the geothermal wonders and learn about Maori traditions and crafts.

In the afternoon, take part in Rotorua Canopy Tours. This thrilling zipline adventure will take you through ancient forests while providing insights into conservation efforts. It's an exhilarating way to experience Rotorua's natural beauty from above.

For dinner, head to Atrium Restaurant at Millennium Hotel Rotorua for a delectable meal featuring local ingredients. Afterward, relax at Volcanic Hills Winery with a glass of wine while enjoying stunning views of Lake Rotorua.

Travel from Rotorua to Wellington (approximately 6 hours by car or 1 hour by flight). Start your day in Wellington with a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, New Zealand's national museum. Explore its extensive collections that showcase New Zealand's art, history, and culture.

In the afternoon, join Wellington Food Tour for a culinary journey through the city's vibrant food scene. Sample local delicacies and learn about Wellington's food culture from knowledgeable guides.

For dinner, dine at Logan Brown, an award-winning restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, enjoy drinks at Havana Bar, a lively spot offering an extensive selection of cocktails and live music.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Marlborough to Wellington (approximately 3.5 hours by ferry). Upon arrival, head to the Wellington Cable Car for a ride up to the Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and harbor. Enjoy breakfast at Scorch-O-Rama, known for its delicious meals and quirky decor.

In the afternoon, join Wellington Coastal Tour. This tour takes you along Wellington's rugged coastline, where you can see beautiful beaches, rocky outcrops, and native wildlife such as seals and seabirds. The knowledgeable guides provide interesting information about the area's natural history.

For dinner, dine at Ortega Fish Shack & Bar, offering fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed setting. After dinner, unwind with a drink at Hawthorn Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and cozy atmosphere.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Wellington to Queenstown (approximately 1.5 hours by flight). Upon arrival, head to the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy breakfast at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, which offers a delicious buffet with panoramic views.

In the afternoon, experience the thrill of Shotover Jet Boat Ride. This high-speed boat ride will take you through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River, providing an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Queenstown and visit local shops and cafes.

For dinner, make your way to Fergburger, a famous burger joint known for its gourmet burgers and lively atmosphere. After dinner, relax with a drink at The Bunker, a cozy bar offering a wide selection of cocktails and a warm ambiance.

Embark on an early morning drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound (approximately 4 hours by car). Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints such as Mirror Lakes and The Chasm. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, board a cruise for an unforgettable journey through this stunning fjord.

During your cruise, you'll have the opportunity to see cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The cruise includes commentary about the natural history and geology of Milford Sound. After the cruise, enjoy lunch on board while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Return to Queenstown in the evening and dine at Rata, a restaurant by renowned chef Josh Emett that offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine. After dinner, unwind with a drink at Bardeaux, an elegant wine bar known for its extensive wine list.

Travel from Queenstown to Wanaka (approximately 1 hour by car). Start your day with a visit to Puzzling World, where you can explore optical illusions, puzzles, and mazes that are fun for all ages. Enjoy breakfast at Patagonia Chocolates, known for its delicious pastries and hot chocolate.

In the afternoon, take part in Wanaka Wine Tour. This tour will take you to some of Wanaka's best wineries where you can sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy Wanaka's beautiful landscape.

For dinner, head to Francesca's Italian Kitchen, which offers authentic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, enjoy drinks at Kai Whakapai Cafe & Bar, a popular spot with locals that offers great views of Lake Wanaka.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier (approximately 4 hours by car). Upon arrival, head to the Franz Josef Glacier Guides for an unforgettable experience. Join Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike, where you'll take a helicopter ride over the stunning glacier before landing and embarking on a guided hike through ice formations and blue ice caves.

After your heli hike, enjoy lunch at The Landing, a cozy cafe offering delicious meals made with local ingredients. In the afternoon, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to learn about New Zealand's unique wildlife, including the rare kiwi bird. The interactive exhibits provide insights into conservation efforts and the natural history of the region.

For dinner, dine at King Tiger Eastern Eating House & Bar, which offers a fusion of Asian and Indian cuisine in a relaxed setting. After dinner, unwind with a drink at Monsoon Bar, known for its lively atmosphere and great selection of beverages.

Travel from Franz Josef Glacier to Hokitika (approximately 2 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to Hokitika Gorge, where you can take in the stunning turquoise waters and lush surrounding forest. Enjoy breakfast at Stella Cafe, known for its fresh pastries and coffee.

Hokitika Greenstone Tour is perfect for those interested in local crafts. This tour will take you through workshops where artisans create beautiful greenstone (pounamu) jewelry and sculptures. You'll learn about the significance of greenstone in Maori culture and have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

For dinner, head to Ocean View Restaurant at Beachfront Hotel Hokitika, which offers delicious seafood dishes with views of the Tasman Sea. After dinner, take a stroll along Hokitika Beach and enjoy drinks at Pioneer Hotel, a historic pub with a friendly atmosphere.

"Travel from Hokitika to Christchurch (approximately 3 hours by car or 1 hour by flight). Begin your day in Christchurch with a visit to Hagley Park, one of New Zealand's largest urban parks. Enjoy breakfast at Strawberry Fare, known for its delightful desserts and hearty breakfast options. "

Travel from Christchurch to Dunedin (approximately 5 hours by car or 1 hour by flight). Start your day with a visit to the iconic Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle. Explore the beautifully restored rooms and gardens while learning about the castle's intriguing history. Enjoy breakfast at The Ballroom Cafe, located within the castle grounds, offering delicious meals with stunning views.

In the afternoon, join Dunedin City Tour, which will take you through some of Dunedin's most famous landmarks, including Baldwin Street (the world's steepest residential street), Otago University, and the historic Dunedin Railway Station. The tour provides fascinating insights into Dunedin's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

For dinner, head to Two Chefs Bistro, known for its contemporary European cuisine and elegant ambiance. After dinner, unwind with a drink at The Albar, a cozy Scottish pub offering a wide selection of whiskies and craft beers.

Travel from Dunedin to Invercargill (approximately 2.5 hours by car). Begin your day with a visit to Queens Park, a beautiful urban park featuring gardens, walking trails, and an aviary. Enjoy breakfast at The Batch Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

Invercargill Wildlife Tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts. This tour will take you to some of Invercargill's best wildlife spots where you can see native birds, seals, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The knowledgeable guides provide interesting information about the local flora and fauna.

For dinner, dine at Tuatara Cafe & Bar, offering a variety of dishes made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, relax with drinks at Invercargill Brewery, where you can sample a range of craft beers brewed on-site.

Begin your day with an early morning drive from Invercargill to Fiordland National Park (approximately 2.5 hours by car). Start your adventure with a visit to the Fiordland Visitor Centre in Te Anau, where you can gather information about the park and its attractions. Enjoy breakfast at Sandfly Cafe, known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.

In the afternoon, embark on Milford Sound Nature Cruise. This cruise will take you through the stunning Milford Sound, where you'll see towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife such as dolphins and seals. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating commentary about the natural history of the area.

After returning from your cruise, head back to Te Anau for dinner at Redcliff Cafe, offering delicious New Zealand cuisine in a cozy setting. After dinner, relax with a drink at The Moose Bar & Restaurant, which offers beautiful views of Lake Te Anau.

Travel from Fiordland National Park to Lake Tekapo (approximately 4 hours by car). Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand's most photographed landmarks. Enjoy breakfast at Peppers Bluewater Resort Restaurant, which offers stunning views of Lake Tekapo and delicious meals.

In the afternoon, join Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour. This tour takes you to Mount John Observatory, where you can observe the night sky through powerful telescopes and learn about astronomy from expert guides. The clear skies of Lake Tekapo make it one of the best places in New Zealand for stargazing.

For dinner, head to Kohan Restaurant, known for its Japanese cuisine and beautiful lake views. After dinner, unwind with a drink at Johnny Barr's, a lively bar offering a great selection of cocktails and local beers.

Travel from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook (approximately 1 hour by car). Start your day with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, where you can learn about New Zealand's mountaineering history and explore interactive exhibits. Enjoy breakfast at Hermitage Hotel Panorama Room, offering stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook while you dine.

In the afternoon, embark on Glacier Explorers Tour. This tour takes you on a boat trip across Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake, where you'll see icebergs up close and learn about glacial processes from knowledgeable guides. It's an unforgettable experience in one of New Zealand's most dramatic landscapes.

For dinner, dine at The Old Mountaineer's Cafe, known for its hearty meals and rustic charm. After dinner, relax with a drink at Chamois Bar & Grill, offering a cozy atmosphere and great views of Mount Cook.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Mount Cook to Kaikoura (approximately 6 hours by car). Upon arrival, head to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for a refreshing morning walk along the coastline. Enjoy breakfast at The Pier Hotel, known for its delicious meals and stunning ocean views.

In the afternoon, embark on Kaikoura Whale Watching Tour. This tour provides an opportunity to see majestic whales up close as well as other marine life such as dolphins and seals. The knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights into the marine ecosystem of Kaikoura.

For dinner, dine at Green Dolphin Restaurant & Bar, offering fresh seafood dishes and a cozy atmosphere. After dinner, relax with a drink at The Whaler, a popular local pub known for its friendly ambiance and great selection of beverages.

Travel from Kaikoura to Nelson (approximately 3.5 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, where you can explore an impressive collection of wearable art and vintage cars. Enjoy breakfast at Liquid NZ Bar, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

In the afternoon, join Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking Tour. This tour takes you through the beautiful coastal scenery of Abel Tasman National Park, where you can paddle through crystal-clear waters and see native wildlife such as seals and birds. The knowledgeable guides provide interesting information about the park's natural history.

For dinner, head to Hopgoods Restaurant, offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, unwind with a drink at The Free House, a unique bar located in a converted church that offers a wide selection of craft beers.

Travel from Nelson to Marlborough (approximately 1.5 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to one of Marlborough's renowned wineries for a wine tasting experience. Enjoy breakfast at Wairau River Wines Restaurant, which offers delicious meals made with fresh local ingredients.

In the afternoon, join Marlborough Wine Tour. This tour takes you to some of the best wineries in the region where you can sample award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process from expert guides. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy Marlborough's beautiful landscape.

For dinner, dine at Arbour Restaurant, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, relax with drinks at Scotch Wine Bar, offering an extensive selection of wines and cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.

Travel from Wellington to Napier (approximately 4 hours by car). Start your day with a visit to the National Aquarium of New Zealand, where you can see a variety of marine life including sharks, stingrays, and penguins. Enjoy breakfast at Mister D Dining, known for its delicious pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, join Napier Art Deco Tour. This tour takes you through Napier's beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture, providing insights into the city's history and unique architectural style. The knowledgeable guides offer fascinating commentary about Napier's recovery after the 1931 earthquake.

For dinner, head to Pacifica Restaurant, offering innovative cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, relax with a drink at The Gintrap, a popular bar known for its extensive selection of gins and waterfront views.

Start your day with a short drive from Napier to Hawke's Bay (approximately 30 minutes by car). Begin your morning with a visit to Te Mata Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the region. Enjoy breakfast at Bistro Three Eleven, known for its delicious meals and friendly atmosphere.

In the afternoon, join Hawke's Bay Wine Tour. This tour takes you to some of Hawke's Bay's best wineries where you can sample award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process from expert guides. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy Hawke's Bay's beautiful landscape.

For dinner, dine at Craggie Range Winery Restaurant, offering exquisite cuisine paired with their renowned wines in an elegant setting. After dinner, unwind with drinks at The Urban Winery, known for its extensive selection of wines and cozy ambiance.