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Ultimate 14-Day South Island Adventure in New Zealand Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

City Exploration and Botanic Gardens

Morning

Start your South Island adventure by exploring the vibrant city of Christchurch. Begin with a delightful breakfast at C1 Espresso, known for its unique pneumatic food delivery system. After breakfast, take a leisurely punt ride on the Avon River to admire the city from a different perspective.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to the iconic The Curator's House, a historic restaurant with a charming garden setting. Spend the afternoon visiting the innovative and ever-changing Christchurch Street Art scene, showcasing a mix of local and international artists.

Evening

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Pescatore, located within The George hotel. Indulge in a degustation menu featuring the best of local produce and seafood.

Bedtime

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Historic Tram Ride and Quake City

Morning

Take a ride on the historic Christchurch Tramway, hopping on and off at various points of interest including the Canterbury Museum and the Botanic Gardens. Grab a coffee at Unknown Chapter located near the Arts Centre.

Afternoon

For lunch, savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at Sign of the Takahe, offering stunning views of the city. Spend the afternoon delving into the history of the 2011 earthquake at Quake City, a poignant and informative museum.

Evening

Dine at Coroglen Tavern, a local favorite known for its hearty pub fare and relaxed atmosphere.

Bedtime

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4.94
Quake City
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Adventure Capital of the World

Morning

Arrive in the adrenaline-pumping town of Queenstown and fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder. Take a scenic gondola ride up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a unique dining experience at the top of the gondola at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, offering a buffet with a view. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, shopping for adventure gear, or trying out the various thrill activities.

Evening

Dine at the renowned Botswana Butchery, known for its premium cuts of meat and elegant atmosphere.

Bedtime

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Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley

Morning

Embark on a scenic drive to Gibbston Valley, known for its world-class wineries. Start your day with a wine tasting at Amisfield Winery, accompanied by stunning views of the vineyards and Lake Hayes.

Afternoon

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan, a winery restaurant offering a seasonal menu. After lunch, visit the underground wine cave at Gibbston Valley Winery for a unique tasting experience.

Evening

Head back to Queenstown and have dinner at Rātā Restaurant, owned by a MasterChef winner and known for its innovative New Zealand cuisine.

Bedtime

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Amisfield Winery
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4.51
Gibbston Valley Winery
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Gateway to Fiordland

Morning

Travel to the picturesque town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Start your day with a scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau, the second-largest lake in New Zealand, and visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a picnic by the lake or dine at La Dolce Vita, a cozy Italian restaurant in the heart of Te Anau. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a magical underground world illuminated by thousands of glowworms.

Evening

Relax and unwind at The Fat Duck, a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and local produce.

Bedtime

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4.84
Lake Te Anau
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4.45
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
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Cruise on the Sound of Silence

Morning

Embark on a full-day excursion to the remote and pristine Doubtful Sound. Experience the serenity of this untouched wilderness as you cruise through the fiord, surrounded by towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

Afternoon

Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on board the cruise, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins, penguins, and seals.

Evening

Return to Te Anau in the evening and dine at The Redcliff, a cozy restaurant with a focus on seasonal and sustainable cuisine.

Bedtime

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Lakeside Serenity and Adventure

Morning

Travel to the charming town of Wanaka, set on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Start your day with a scenic walk along the Roy's Peak Track, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Cow Pizza and Spaghetti House, a local favorite known for its wood-fired pizzas. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, visiting the National Transport and Toy Museum or trying out water sports on the lake.

Evening

Dine at Kika, a contemporary restaurant in the heart of Wanaka, known for its innovative cuisine and extensive wine list.

Bedtime

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4.71
Roy's Peak Track
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4.67
National Transport and Toy Museum
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Wilderness and Scenic Beauty

Morning

Journey into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a guided nature walk or a scenic flight to experience the park's diverse landscapes.

Afternoon

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and native beech forests. Take the time to immerse yourself in the tranquility of this pristine alpine environment.

Evening

Return to Wanaka for dinner at Ode Conscious Dining, a restaurant focused on sustainability and local ingredients.

Bedtime

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Glaciers and Hot Pools

Morning

Travel to the town of Franz Josef, home to the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier. Begin your day with a guided glacier hike or a scenic helicopter flight over the icy landscape.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Landing Bar & Restaurant, with views of the glacier. In the afternoon, relax your muscles at the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Evening

Dine at The Alice May, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Franz Josef, known for its warm hospitality and hearty meals.

Bedtime

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Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
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Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Morning

Journey up the West Coast to Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Explore the otherworldly rock formations and witness the powerful geothermal activity.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Punakaiki Tavern, a local pub with a focus on fresh seafood. After lunch, take a walk through the lush rainforest of the Paparoa National Park.

Evening

Dine at The Bay House, a restaurant with stunning views of the Tasman Sea, known for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine.

Bedtime

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4.70
Paparoa National Park
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Art and Culinary Delights

Morning

Travel to the vibrant city of Nelson, known for its thriving arts scene. Spend the morning exploring the local galleries and studios, or take a scenic drive to the nearby vineyards.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Urban Eatery, a popular spot for its diverse menu and relaxed atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum for a unique blend of fashion and automotive history.

Evening

Dine at Hopgoods Restaurant, a fine dining establishment in the heart of Nelson, known for its seasonal and innovative cuisine.

Bedtime

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Coastal Paradise and Kayaking Adventure

Morning

Head to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park for a day of coastal exploration. Embark on a guided kayaking tour, paddling through crystal-clear waters and discovering hidden coves and beaches.

Afternoon

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach and take the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the marine reserve. After kayaking, you can opt for a scenic cruise back to the starting point.

Evening

Dine at The Park Eatery, a relaxed restaurant in Marahau, known for its fresh seafood and local produce.

Bedtime

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Wine and Scenic Cruises

Morning

Travel to the Marlborough region, famous for its world-renowned sauvignon blanc. Start your day with a wine tasting tour, visiting a selection of Marlborough Vineyards.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Arnaud's Restaurant, a vineyard restaurant with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. In the afternoon, take a scenic cruise on the Marlborough Sounds, soaking in the beauty of the fjord-like coastline.

Evening

Dine at Raupo Riverside Cafe, a waterfront restaurant in Blenheim, known for its relaxed atmosphere and innovative cuisine.

Bedtime

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Marlborough Vineyards
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4.31
Marlborough Sounds
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Farewell to the Adventure Capital

Morning

Spend your final morning in Queenstown enjoying a leisurely breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen, a popular spot for its artisanal bread and pastries. Take a last stroll along the lakefront and soak in the stunning mountain views.

Afternoon

Depending on your departure time, you can squeeze in some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local attraction. For lunch, savor the flavors of New Zealand at Rata Dining, owned by a MasterChef winner.

Evening

Conclude your South Island adventure with a memorable dinner at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door, overlooking Lake Hayes and the Remarkables. Raise a glass of Central Otago pinot noir to an unforgettable journey.

Bedtime

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