14 day itinerary for New Zealand

Itinerary

New Zealand is a paradise for adventurers like you, with stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and delicious food to try. Here’s a fast-paced, 14-day itinerary that balances nature, swimming, and culinary delights. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

• Morning: Arrive in Auckland. Check into your accommodation and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant waterfront area, grab lunch at the Auckland Fish Market, and try some fresh seafood.
• Evening: Head to the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city at sunset. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying some local lamb or venison.

## Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua

• Morning: Rent a car and drive to Rotorua (about 3 hours). Stop at Hobbiton in Matamata for a guided tour of the movie set.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Rotorua and visit the geothermal parks (Te Puia or Wai-O-Tapu) to see geysers and hot springs.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Māori hangi dinner and cultural performance.

## Day 3: Rotorua Adventures

• Morning: Go white-water rafting on the Kaituna River (the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world!).
• Afternoon: Relax in the natural hot springs at the Polynesian Spa.
• Evening: Try some local delicacies at a food truck or a casual eatery in town.

## Day 4: Rotorua to Taupo

• Morning: Drive to Taupo (about 1 hour). Stop at Huka Falls for a quick photo op.
• Afternoon: Go for a swim in Lake Taupo or try kayaking. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider skydiving for breathtaking views!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local trout.

## Day 5: Tongariro National Park

• Morning: Early start for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (a full-day hike). This is one of the best day hikes in the world!
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning landscapes, emerald lakes, and volcanic terrain.
• Evening: Return to Taupo for a well-deserved dinner and rest.

## Day 6: Taupo to Wellington

• Morning: Drive to Wellington (about 4.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic route through the countryside.
• Afternoon: Explore the Te Papa Museum and grab lunch at a café on Cuba Street.
• Evening: Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant, trying some local craft beer.

## Day 7: Wellington to Picton (via Ferry)

• Morning: Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton (about 3 hours). Enjoy the stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Picton and explore the town. Consider a short hike in the Queen Charlotte Track.
• Evening: Dine at a local seafood restaurant, sampling fresh mussels or fish.

## Day 8: Marlborough Wine Region

• Morning: Rent a bike and explore the vineyards of the Marlborough region. Stop for tastings and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Afternoon: Have a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, trying local wines and gourmet dishes.
• Evening: Return to Picton and relax. Grab a casual dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 9: Picton to Nelson

• Morning: Drive to Nelson (about 1.5 hours). Stop at the Abel Tasman National Park Visitor Centre.
• Afternoon: Go for a swim or kayak in the crystal-clear waters of Abel Tasman National Park. You can also hike part of the coastal track.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some artisan cheeses or local produce.

## Day 10: Nelson to Franz Josef

• Morning: Drive to Franz Josef (about 5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive through the West Coast.
• Afternoon: Arrive and take a guided glacier hike or a helicopter tour for stunning views of the glacier.
• Evening: Relax in the hot pools and enjoy dinner at a cozy local restaurant.

## Day 11: Franz Josef to Queenstown

• Morning: Drive to Queenstown (about 4 hours). Stop at the stunning Lake Wanaka for a quick swim or photo op.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Queenstown and explore the town. Try the famous Fergburger for lunch!
• Evening: Take the Skyline Gondola for sunset views and enjoy dinner at the restaurant at the top.

## Day 12: Adventure in Queenstown

• Morning: Go bungee jumping or skydiving for an adrenaline rush!
• Afternoon: Try jet boating on the Shotover River or go for a hike in the nearby mountains.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner cruise on Lake Wakatipu, sampling local dishes.

## Day 13: Milford Sound Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Milford Sound (either by bus or scenic flight). Enjoy a cruise through the fjords, with opportunities for swimming and stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Queenstown and have a relaxed dinner at a local pub.

## Day 14: Departure from Queenstown

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure flight.

Tips:

• Make sure to book activities in advance, especially popular ones like bungee jumping and glacier hikes.
• Pack for varying weather conditions, as New Zealand can be unpredictable.
• Stay hydrated and enjoy the local cuisine!

This itinerary is packed with adventure, stunning nature, and delicious food. You’re going to have an amazing time exploring the beauty of New Zealand! Safe travels! 🌏✈️