10 day itinerary for New Zealand

Itinerary

New Zealand is a fantastic destination for families, and with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and plenty of activities, you’re in for a treat! Here’s a fun and family-friendly 10-day itinerary that caters to your vegetarian preferences and includes activities for both the 8-year-old and the 14-year-old. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

• Morning: Arrive in Auckland. Depending on your flight, grab a quick breakfast at a local café (look for vegetarian options like avocado toast).
• Afternoon: Explore the Auckland Waterfront. Visit the Auckland Art Gallery for some culture and then take a stroll through the Viaduct Harbour.
• Evening: Dinner at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant like The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery. They have a great selection of plant-based dishes!

## Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua

• Morning: Drive or take a bus to Rotorua (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Visit Te Puia, where you can see geysers and learn about Māori culture. The kids will love the bubbling mud pools!
• Evening: Dinner at The Herb Centre, which offers delicious vegetarian meals. If you’re up for it, consider a night-time visit to the Tamaki Māori Village for a cultural experience.

## Day 3: Rotorua Adventures

• Morning: Head to Rainbow Springs Nature Park to see native wildlife, including the famous Kiwi bird. The kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits!
• Afternoon: Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland to see colorful hot springs and unique geothermal features.
• Evening: Dinner at The Fat Dog Café & Bar, which has a great vegetarian menu.

## Day 4: Rotorua to Taupo

• Morning: Drive to Taupo (about 1 hour). Stop at Huka Falls on the way for some stunning views.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs. The kids will love the water slides and thermal pools!
• Evening: Dinner at The Bistro in Taupo, which offers vegetarian options.

## Day 5: Taupo to Wellington

• Morning: Drive to Wellington (about 4.5 hours). Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
• Afternoon: Visit the Te Papa Museum, which is free and has lots of interactive exhibits that the kids will enjoy.
• Evening: Dinner at Sweet Mother’s Kitchen, a vibrant spot with great vegetarian options.

## Day 6: Wellington Exploration

• Morning: Take the Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens. The views are stunning, and the gardens are beautiful to explore.
• Afternoon: Visit Zealandia, a wildlife sanctuary where you can see native birds and reptiles. It’s a great educational experience for the kids!
• Evening: Dinner at The Bowl & Arrow, which has a variety of vegetarian dishes.

## Day 7: Wellington to Christchurch

• Morning: Fly to Christchurch (look for budget airlines for cheap tickets).
• Afternoon: Explore the Botanic Gardens and take a punt ride on the Avon River. It’s a relaxing way to see the city!
• Evening: Dinner at The Lotus-Heart, a vegetarian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

## Day 8: Christchurch to Queenstown

• Morning: Drive or take a bus to Queenstown (about 6 hours). The drive is beautiful, so take your time!
• Afternoon: Arrive in Queenstown and explore the town. Check out the Queenstown Gardens for a lovely walk.
• Evening: Dinner at Vudu Café, which has great vegetarian options.

## Day 9: Queenstown Adventures

• Morning: Take a day trip to Milford Sound. You can book a family-friendly cruise that includes lunch (make sure to request vegetarian meals).
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning scenery and maybe spot some dolphins or seals!
• Evening: Return to Queenstown and have dinner at Fergburger (they have vegetarian options too!).

## Day 10: Queenstown to Auckland

• Morning: Fly back to Auckland. Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Visit Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery or another favorite spot before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider renting a car for flexibility, especially with kids. It makes it easier to stop and explore along the way!
• Vegetarian Options: New Zealand is quite vegetarian-friendly, but it’s always good to check menus in advance or call ahead.
• Activities: Always check for family discounts or packages, especially for attractions and activities.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable family adventure in New Zealand! Enjoy every moment! 🌏✈️