Itinerary

New Zealand is a stunning country with a diverse range of experiences to offer. With 21 days at your disposal, we can create an itinerary that balances food and wine, history, adrenaline, hidden gems, and nature. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

• Morning: Arrive in Auckland. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the Auckland Waterfront and grab lunch at a local café. Try some fresh seafood!
• Evening: Head to the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and enjoy dinner at the Orbit Restaurant.

## Day 2: Auckland - Wine Tasting in Waiheke Island

• Morning: Take a ferry to Waiheke Island.
• Afternoon: Visit a couple of vineyards like Mudbrick and Cable Bay for wine tastings and lunch with a view.
• Evening: Return to Auckland and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 3: Auckland to Rotorua

• Morning: Drive to Rotorua (approx. 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Te Puia to see geysers and learn about Māori culture.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Māori hangi dinner and cultural performance.

## Day 4: Rotorua - Adrenaline Day

• Morning: Go white-water rafting on the Kaituna River (the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world!).
• Afternoon: Relax in the geothermal pools at the Polynesian Spa.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps try some local lamb.

## Day 5: Rotorua to Taupo

• Morning: Drive to Taupo (approx. 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit Huka Falls and take a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo.
• Evening: Dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

## Day 6: Taupo - Adventure Day

• Morning: Go skydiving over Lake Taupo for an adrenaline rush!
• Afternoon: Relax and explore the town or visit the Taupo Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub.

## Day 7: Taupo to Tongariro National Park

• Morning: Drive to Tongariro National Park (approx. 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (a full-day hike, so pack snacks and water!).
• Evening: Stay overnight in the park area and enjoy a cozy dinner.

## Day 8: Tongariro to Wellington

• Morning: Drive to Wellington (approx. 4.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Te Papa Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history and culture.
• Evening: Dinner at a waterfront restaurant, perhaps try some local craft beer.

## Day 9: Wellington - Hidden Gems

• Morning: Explore the charming streets of Cuba Street and visit local shops.
• Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at film-making.
• Evening: Dinner at a hidden gem restaurant, like Ortega Fish Shack.

## Day 10: Wellington to Picton (via ferry)

• Morning: Take the ferry to Picton (approx. 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

## Day 11: Marlborough Wine Region

• Morning: Go on a wine tour in the Marlborough region, visiting famous wineries like Cloudy Bay.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the vineyards.
• Evening: Return to Picton for a relaxing evening.

## Day 12: Picton to Nelson

• Morning: Drive to Nelson (approx. 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the local art scene and visit the Nelson Market (if it’s a Saturday).
• Evening: Dinner at a local bistro.

## Day 13: Abel Tasman National Park

• Morning: Take a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park. Go kayaking or hiking along the stunning coastline.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach.
• Evening: Return to Nelson for dinner.

## Day 14: Nelson to Franz Josef

• Morning: Drive to Franz Josef (approx. 5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 15: Franz Josef - Glacier Adventure

• Morning: Take a guided glacier hike or a helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier.
• Afternoon: Relax in the Glacier Hot Pools.
• Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner in town.

## Day 16: Franz Josef to Queenstown

• Morning: Drive to Queenstown (approx. 4.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the town and take a scenic gondola ride for stunning views.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a view, like Stratosfare.

## Day 17: Queenstown - Adrenaline Day

• Morning: Go bungee jumping at the Kawarau Bridge or try jet boating on the Shotover River.
• Afternoon: Relax and explore the local shops.
• Evening: Dinner at a local steakhouse.

## Day 18: Queenstown to Milford Sound

• Morning: Take a day trip to Milford Sound (approx. 4 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic cruise on Milford Sound.
• Evening: Return to Queenstown for dinner.

## Day 19: Queenstown to Wanaka

• Morning: Drive to Wanaka (approx. 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit the famous Wanaka Tree and explore the town.
• Evening: Dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

## Day 20: Wanaka - Hidden Gem

• Morning: Hike to Roy’s Peak for breathtaking views (early start recommended).
• Afternoon: Relax at the lake or visit a local winery.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Wanaka.

## Day 21: Wanaka to Christchurch

• Morning: Drive to Christchurch (approx. 5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the city, visit the Botanic Gardens, and check out the Re:START Mall.
• Evening: Enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant before your departure.

Departure

• ## Day 22: Depart from Christchurch, taking with you unforgettable memories of New Zealand!

This itinerary offers a fantastic mix of food, wine, history, adrenaline, hidden gems, and nature. Enjoy your adventure in the Land of the Long White Cloud! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know!