17 day itinerary
New Zealand
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch
Welcome to New Zealand! After arriving in Christchurch, take some time to explore the city. Visit the beautiful Botanic Gardens, stroll along the , and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2: Christchurch to Kaikoura
Head north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura. Along the way, stop at the picturesque Waipara Valley for some wine tasting. In Kaikoura, you can go on a whale watching tour or take a scenic hike along the .
Day 3: Kaikoura to Nelson
Continue your journey north to Nelson, a vibrant city known for its arts and crafts scene. Spend the day exploring the city's galleries, boutiques, and cafes. In the evening, catch a beautiful sunset at Tahunanui Beach.
Day 4:
Take a day trip to , known for its stunning golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a leisurely hike along the coastal track, or opt for a kayak tour to explore the park's hidden coves and islands.
Day 5: Nelson to Franz Josef
Drive south to Franz Josef, a small town nestled in the heart of the West Coast. Take a guided glacier hike on the Franz Josef Glacier, where you can marvel at the icy blue formations and stunning landscapes.
Day 6: Franz Josef to Wanaka
Head further south to the picturesque town of Wanaka. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Haast Pass, stopping at various viewpoints along the way. In Wanaka, take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront and visit the famous Wanaka Tree.
Day 7: Wanaka to Queenstown
Continue your journey to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Spend the day exploring the town's vibrant streets, trying out thrilling activities like bungee jumping or jet boating, or simply enjoying the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.
Day 8: Milford Sound
Embark on a day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders. Take a scenic cruise through the fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Day 9: Queenstown to Mount Cook
Drive north to Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak. Enjoy easy hikes around the park, taking in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Don't forget to stargaze at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, known for its clear night skies.
Day 10: Mount Cook to Christchurch
Head back to Christchurch, stopping at the picturesque along the way. Visit the famous and soak in the stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains.
Day 11: Christchurch to Wellington
Fly from Christchurch to Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Spend the day exploring the vibrant waterfront, visiting the , and enjoying the city's lively food and arts scene.
Day 12: Wellington to Tongariro National Park
Drive north to Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its volcanic landscapes. Take an easy hike along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or explore the park's shorter trails, offering stunning views of Mount Ngauruhoe and the Emerald Lakes.
Day 13: Tongariro National Park to Rotorua
Continue your journey to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture. Visit the , where you can witness colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pools. In the evening, experience a traditional Maori cultural performance and feast.
Day 14: Rotorua to Waitomo
Head west to Waitomo, famous for its glowworm caves. Take a guided tour through the caves, where you can marvel at the magical glowworms illuminating the underground caverns. For the adventurous, try black water rafting or abseiling.
Day 15: Waitomo to Auckland
Drive north to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Spend the day exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods, visiting the , and enjoying panoramic views from the . In the evening, dine at one of the city's renowned restaurants.
Day 16: Waiheke Island
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for its stunning vineyards and beautiful beaches. Enjoy a wine tasting tour, relax on the sandy shores, or explore the island's art galleries and boutique shops.
Day 17: Departure from Auckland
On your last day, take some time to explore any remaining sights in Auckland before heading to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your incredible journey through New Zealand and cherish the memories you've made.
Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your preferences and available time. Enjoy your trip to New Zealand!