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Ultimate 11-Day South Island Adventure in New Zealand

Ultimate 11-Day South Island Adventure in New Zealand Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Lakeside Serenity and Adventure Kickoff

Morning
Start your South Island adventure with a hearty breakfast at Village Green Cafe & Bar, overlooking the stunning Lake Wakatipu. After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Lake Wanaka, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the lake and the famous Wanaka Tree.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Luggate Hotel, a historic establishment with a cozy atmosphere. Post lunch, continue to Mt. Aspiring National Park for a leisurely hike, immersing yourself in the pristine alpine scenery.
Evening
As the sun sets, dine at odd saint, known for its innovative cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the Queenstown waterfront, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Bedtime
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Visit Lake Wanaka in Queenstown
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Lake Wanaka

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Visit Mt. Aspiring National Park in Queenstown
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Mt. Aspiring National Park

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Thrills and Views of Queenstown

Morning
Enjoy breakfast with a view at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar located on Bob's Peak. After breakfast, experience the adrenaline rush with a bungee jump at the iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping.
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the flavors of the region at Five Stags Bar & Restaurant Cromwell. Post lunch, take a scenic drive to Central Otago and explore the charming historic towns and vineyards.
Evening
Dine at Monteith's Brewery and enjoy a selection of craft beers paired with a delicious meal. Conclude the evening with a peaceful gondola ride back to Bob's Peak, admiring the city lights below.
Bedtime
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Visit Navy Pier in Queenstown
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Kawarau Bridge Bungy

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Central Otago

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Day of Relaxation and Wildlife

Morning
Start with a sumptuous breakfast at Blue Lake Eatery & Bar in Te Anau. After breakfast, take a leisurely cruise on the serene Milford Sound (Piopiotahi), immersing yourself in the majestic fjord landscape and spotting wildlife.
Afternoon
Enjoy a picnic lunch provided on the cruise. Post-cruise, visit the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the unique ecosystem. If time permits, take a short walk to the stunning The Chasm (Milford).
Evening
Return to Queenstown and dine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring local produce. Reflect on the day's natural wonders as you enjoy your meal.
Bedtime
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Visit Basque Museum (Museo Vasco de Bilbao) in Queenstown

Milford Sound (Piopiotahi)

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Visit Chartres Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres) in Queenstown
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The Chasm (Milford)

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Historical Journey and Alpine Experience

Morning
Have breakfast at The Ranch Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy a hearty meal to fuel your day. After breakfast, embark on a road trip to Cromwell, known for its rich gold mining history. Explore the historic precinct and visit the Cromwell Heritage Precinct.
Afternoon
For lunch, stop at The Stadium Tavern in Alexandra, a local favorite. Post lunch, continue your journey to Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park. Take a scenic hike to the Tasman Glacier (Haupapa) viewpoint and witness the grandeur of the largest glacier in New Zealand.
Evening
Dine at True South Dining Room in Queenstown, offering a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. End the day with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, where you can learn about the pioneering spirit of the famous mountaineer.
Bedtime
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Visit Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant in Queenstown
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Cromwell

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Visit Torlesse Wines in Queenstown
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Cromwell Heritage Precinct

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Wanaka Wonders and Culinary Delights

Morning
Begin your day with breakfast at Giants Bar & Restaurant, enjoying the warm hospitality and a wholesome meal. After breakfast, take a short drive to Roy's Peak for a challenging yet rewarding hike, offering panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
Refuel with a delicious lunch at Yonder, a vibrant eatery in the heart of Wanaka. Post lunch, visit the Puzzling World to engage in mind-boggling optical illusions and puzzles, providing a fun and interactive experience for all ages.
Evening
Dine at The Foredeck Restaurant, a lakeside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and serene ambiance. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere of Wanaka.
Bedtime
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Glacial Wonders and Rainforest Exploration

Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef. After breakfast, gear up for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a guided Franz Josef Glacier hike, exploring the ever-changing ice formations and learning about the glacial environment.
Afternoon
Enjoy a packed lunch provided by the tour company during your glacier hike. After the hike, unwind at the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, where you can soak in the rejuvenating waters surrounded by lush rainforest.
Evening
For dinner, head to The Ranch Bar & Grill and indulge in a satisfying meal. As the evening sets in, take a short drive to the Westcoast Treetop Walk & Cafe and experience the native rainforest from a unique perspective on the treetop walkway.
Bedtime
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Franz Josef Glacier

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Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

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Heritage and Nature Immersion

Morning
Enjoy breakfast at Redcliff Cafe, a cozy spot with a selection of morning delights. After breakfast, visit the Shantytown Heritage Park to step back in time and experience the gold rush era of the West Coast. Explore the recreated village and try your hand at gold panning.
Afternoon
Have lunch at The Stadium Tavern in Greymouth, offering a casual dining experience. Post lunch, continue to the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, where you can encounter the rare and endangered native bird, the kiwi, in a natural environment.
Evening
Dine at The Foredeck Restaurant in Hokitika, known for its delectable dishes and ocean views. After dinner, take a stroll on the Hokitika Beach and witness the beautiful driftwood sculptures, a testament to the creative spirit of the region.
Bedtime
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Visit From Cairns Green Island Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat in West Coast
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Shantytown Heritage Park

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West Coast Wildlife Centre

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Glacial Encounters and Alpine Retreat

Morning
Start with breakfast at Blue Lake Eatery & Bar in Greymouth, offering a range of breakfast options. After breakfast, drive to Fox Glacier and join a guided tour to witness the impressive ice formations and learn about the glacial landscape.
Afternoon
Enjoy a packed lunch provided by the tour company during your Fox Glacier experience. Post glacier visit, make your way to Lake Matheson (Te Ara Kairaumati) for a serene walk around the lake, capturing the famous reflection of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and Mt. Tasman.
Evening
Dine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef, where you can enjoy a delightful meal in a relaxed setting. Conclude the day with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, unwinding in the natural geothermal pools surrounded by the rainforest.
Bedtime
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Visit Fox Glacier in West Coast
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Fox Glacier

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Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

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Garden City Exploration and Culinary Delights

Morning
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Christchurch. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Christchurch Botanic Gardens, enjoying the colorful flora and the peaceful Avon River.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to The Stadium Tavern, a local favorite known for its hearty meals. Post lunch, visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive experience, learning about the icy continent and even braving an Antarctic storm.
Evening
Dine at Clink Restaurant & Bar located within the historic Christchurch Women's Prison. Enjoy a unique dining experience with a menu inspired by the correctional facility's history. After dinner, take a leisurely punt ride on the Avon River, admiring the city from a different perspective.
Bedtime
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Christchurch Botanic Gardens

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Heritage and Adventure in the Garden City

Morning
Start with breakfast at Redcliff Cafe, a cozy spot with a selection of morning delights. After breakfast, visit the Canterbury Museum to explore the region's rich cultural and natural history, including the famous Antarctic exhibit.
Afternoon
Have lunch at The Foredeck Restaurant, a lakeside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and serene ambiance. Post lunch, take a trip to the Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand's only open-range zoo, and enjoy up-close encounters with exotic and native animals.
Evening
Dine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Christchurch, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring local produce. After dinner, if you're up for some entertainment, catch a performance at the Isaac Theatre Royal, a historic and beautifully restored venue.
Bedtime
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Canterbury Museum

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Orana Wildlife Park

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Southern Alps and Coastal Wonders

Morning
Enjoy breakfast at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Christchurch. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Akaroa, a charming French-influenced town nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano. Explore the town's boutique shops and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
Afternoon
Have a leisurely lunch at The Stadium Tavern in Akaroa, offering a variety of dishes with a view. Post lunch, take a cruise on the Akaroa Harbour, where you can spot the rare Hector's dolphins and learn about the area's rich marine life and history.
Evening
Return to Christchurch and dine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar, reflecting on your South Island journey over a delicious meal. If you have time, take a walk along the New Brighton Beach and enjoy the sea breeze and the iconic pier.
Bedtime
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Akaroa Harbour

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