Itinerary

New Zealand is a stunning country with so much to offer, and you can definitely explore it on a budget. Here’s a 21-day itinerary that balances adventure, nature, and culture while keeping costs in check. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

• Morning: Arrive in Auckland. Check into a budget-friendly hostel or Airbnb.
• Afternoon: Explore the Auckland Waterfront and take a stroll through the Viaduct Harbour.
• Evening: Grab dinner at a local food market (like the Auckland Night Markets) for affordable eats.

## Day 2: Auckland

• Morning: Visit the Auckland Domain and the Auckland War Memorial Museum (free entry to the grounds).
• Afternoon: Head to the Sky Tower for panoramic views (consider just going to the viewing deck instead of dining).
• Evening: Enjoy a walk around the city and find a cheap eatery for dinner.

## Day 3: Auckland to Rotorua

• Morning: Take a bus to Rotorua (around 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the free Kuirau Park to see geothermal activity.
• Evening: Check out the local eateries for some traditional Māori food.

## Day 4: Rotorua

• Morning: Visit Te Puia (entry fee, but worth it for the geysers and Māori culture).
• Afternoon: Relax in the free hot springs at Kerosene Creek.
• Evening: Attend a free cultural performance if available.

## Day 5: Rotorua to Taupo

• Morning: Bus to Taupo (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit Huka Falls (free) and take a walk along the lake.
• Evening: Cook dinner at your accommodation or find a budget-friendly café.

## Day 6: Taupo

• Morning: Go for a hike on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (consider a guided tour if you need help).
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning views and pack a picnic lunch.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a quiet evening by the lake.

## Day 7: Taupo to Wellington

• Morning: Bus to Wellington (around 5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the Te Papa Museum (free entry).
• Evening: Walk along the waterfront and find a budget-friendly dinner spot.

## Day 8: Wellington

• Morning: Take the cable car to the Botanic Gardens (free entry).
• Afternoon: Visit the Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary (entry fee, but worth it for wildlife lovers).
• Evening: Check out Cuba Street for affordable dining options.

## Day 9: Wellington to Picton

• Morning: Take the ferry to Picton (book in advance for cheaper rates).
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
• Evening: Enjoy a meal at a local pub.

## Day 10: Picton to Nelson

• Morning: Bus to Nelson (around 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Nelson Market (if it’s a Saturday) for local crafts and food.
• Evening: Cook dinner at your accommodation or find a local café.

## Day 11: Nelson

• Morning: ## Day trip to Abel Tasman National Park (consider a budget-friendly guided tour).
• Afternoon: Enjoy hiking or kayaking (pack a lunch).
• Evening: Return to Nelson and relax.

## Day 12: Nelson to Franz Josef

• Morning: Travel to Franz Josef (this will be a long travel day, around 8 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax.
• Evening: Enjoy a simple dinner and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

## Day 13: Franz Josef

• Morning: Take a guided glacier hike (look for budget options).
• Afternoon: Relax in the Glacier Hot Pools (entry fee).
• Evening: Cook dinner or find a budget-friendly spot.

## Day 14: Franz Josef to Queenstown

• Morning: Bus to Queenstown (around 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the town and take a walk along Lake Wakatipu.
• Evening: Enjoy a budget meal at Fergburger (a must-try!).

## Day 15: Queenstown

• Morning: Take a day trip to Milford Sound (consider a budget tour).
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning scenery and maybe a boat cruise (look for deals).
• Evening: Return to Queenstown and relax.

## Day 16: Queenstown

• Morning: Go hiking on the Ben Lomond Track (free).
• Afternoon: Explore the local shops and markets.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 17: Queenstown to Wanaka

• Morning: Bus to Wanaka (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit the famous Wanaka Tree and take a walk around the lake.
• Evening: Cook dinner or find a local café.

## Day 18: Wanaka

• Morning: Hike to Roy’s Peak (free, but it’s a challenging hike!).
• Afternoon: Relax in Wanaka and enjoy the views.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in town.

## Day 19: Wanaka to Christchurch

• Morning: Travel to Christchurch (around 5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the Botanic Gardens and the city center.
• Evening: Find a budget-friendly restaurant for dinner.

## Day 20: Christchurch

• Morning: Visit the Canterbury Museum (free entry).
• Afternoon: Explore the Re:START Mall and local shops.
• Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in New Zealand at a local eatery.

## Day 21: Departure from Christchurch

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Accommodation: Look for hostels, budget hotels, or campsites.
• Transport: Use buses for intercity travel (like InterCity or Naked Bus) and consider a hop-on-hop-off bus pass.
• Food: Cook your meals when possible, and eat at local markets or food trucks for affordable options.
• Activities: Look for free or low-cost activities, and consider group discounts for tours.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 21 days in New Zealand! Enjoy your adventure! 🌏✈️