Itinerary

New Zealand is a stunning country with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan a budget-friendly 21-day itinerary that starts and ends in Auckland, with some skiing included. 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 around the Viaduct Harbour.
• Evening: Grab dinner at a local food market like the Auckland Night Markets (check the schedule for locations).

## Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua

• Morning: Take a bus to Rotorua (about 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the geothermal parks (like Wai-O-Tapu) for some stunning landscapes.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Maori cultural experience and dinner at Tamaki Maori Village (look for budget options).

## Day 3: Rotorua

• Morning: Visit the Redwoods Forest for a walk or bike ride.
• Afternoon: Relax in the free Kuirau Park hot pools.
• Evening: Explore the local eateries for some affordable dining.

## Day 4: Rotorua to Taupo

• Morning: Head to Taupo (about 1 hour by bus).
• Afternoon: Visit Huka Falls and take a walk along the lakefront.
• Evening: Enjoy a budget-friendly meal at a local café.

## Day 5: Taupo to Tongariro National Park

• Morning: Take a bus to Tongariro National Park (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Settle into your accommodation and explore the park.
• Evening: Prepare for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike the next day.

## Day 6: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

• All ## Day: Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (a full-day trek). Pack a lunch and enjoy the breathtaking views!
• Evening: Rest and recover at your accommodation.

## Day 7: Tongariro to Wellington

• Morning: Travel to Wellington (about 4 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Explore the Te Papa Museum (free entry).
• Evening: Check out Cuba Street for affordable dining options.

## Day 8: Wellington

• Morning: Take the cable car to the Botanic Gardens for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Visit the Wellington Waterfront and enjoy a walk.
• Evening: Try some local fish and chips for dinner.

## Day 9: Wellington to Nelson

• Morning: Take the ferry to Picton and then a bus to Nelson (total travel time about 5-6 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore Nelson’s local markets (if it’s a Saturday).
• Evening: Enjoy a budget meal at a local pub.

## Day 10: Abel Tasman National Park

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park. You can hike or kayak (look for budget tours).
• Evening: Return to Nelson for dinner.

## Day 11: Nelson to Franz Josef

• Morning: Travel to Franz Josef (this will be a long travel day, about 8 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax.
• Evening: Enjoy a simple dinner at a local café.

## Day 12: Franz Josef Glacier

• Morning: Take a guided glacier hike (look for budget options).
• Afternoon: Relax in the Glacier Hot Pools.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 13: Franz Josef to Queenstown

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

## Day 14: Queenstown

• All ## Day: Spend the day skiing at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables (check for budget lift passes).
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a cozy dinner.

## Day 15: Queenstown

• All ## Day: Another day of skiing! Choose a different ski area or enjoy more time on the slopes.
• Evening: Treat yourself to a nice dinner after a day of skiing.

## Day 16: Queenstown to Milford Sound

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Milford Sound (book a budget-friendly tour). Enjoy the stunning fjords and maybe a cruise.
• Evening: Return to Queenstown for the night.

## Day 17: Queenstown to Christchurch

• Morning: Travel to Christchurch (about 6 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the city, including the Botanic Gardens and the Cardboard Cathedral.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 18: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

• Morning: Head to Lake Tekapo (about 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and take in the stunning lake views.
• Evening: Stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

## Day 19: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook

• Morning: Travel to Mount Cook (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Explore the area and take a short hike (like the Hooker Valley Track).
• Evening: Stay overnight in budget accommodation.

## Day 20: Mount Cook to Auckland

• Morning: Travel back to Auckland (this will be a long travel day, about 8-9 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Auckland and relax.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 21: Departure from Auckland

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

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Use buses for intercity travel (like InterCity or Naked Bus).
• Look for free or low-cost activities (like hiking, beaches, and parks).
• Consider cooking your meals if you have access to a kitchen.
• Check for discounts on attractions and activities.

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your adventure in New Zealand! Let me know if you have any questions or need adjustments. Safe travels! 🌏✈️