3 day itinerary
New Zealand
Personalized with:2 adults and 1 2 year old want to go to easy place for toddler, fun outdoor places to see in November food is a must
Itinerary
New Zealand is a stunning destination, and with a toddler in tow, we can definitely craft a fun and easy-going itinerary that balances outdoor adventures with delicious food. November is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is generally warm and inviting. Let’s dive into your 3-day adventure!
Day 1: Auckland – City and Nature
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day at a family-friendly café like . They have a great breakfast menu and a lovely outdoor seating area.
- : After breakfast, head to the . It’s a fantastic place for toddlers with plenty of animals to see and a lovely playground. The zoo is spacious, so your little one can run around and explore.
Lunch:
- Lunch at the Zoo Café: Grab a bite at the zoo café, which offers kid-friendly options and a nice view of the surrounding gardens.
Afternoon:
- : After the zoo, take a stroll through the Auckland Domain, one of the city’s oldest parks. The Wintergardens are beautiful and have a lovely pond area where your toddler can enjoy watching the ducks.
Evening:
- Dinner at : Head to for dinner. There are several family-friendly restaurants, like Pocket Bar & Kitchen, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes. The waterfront area is perfect for a post-dinner stroll!
Day 2: Rotorua – Geothermal Wonders and Culture
Morning:
- Drive to Rotorua: After breakfast, set off for Rotorua (about a 3-hour drive). The scenery along the way is beautiful, so make sure to stop for a few photos!
- : Once you arrive, visit , where you can see geysers, mud pools, and learn about Māori culture. It’s stroller-friendly, and your toddler will love the bubbling mud!
Lunch:
- Lunch at Café: Enjoy a meal at the café on-site, which offers a range of delicious options, including traditional Māori dishes.
Afternoon:
- : After lunch, head to , a free geothermal park with walking paths, bubbling mud, and hot pools. It’s a great place for your little one to explore safely.
Evening:
- Dinner at : Head to , a vibrant dining area with various restaurants. You can find everything from pizza to Asian cuisine. It’s a fun atmosphere, and there’s often live music or entertainment.
Day 3: Hobbiton and – Magical Landscapes
Morning:
- Drive to Hobbiton: After breakfast, make your way to Hobbiton (about a 1-hour drive from Rotorua). The rolling hills and lush landscapes are breathtaking!
- Tour: Take a family-friendly tour of the . The tour is stroller-friendly, and your toddler will love seeing the colorful hobbit holes and the beautiful gardens.
Lunch:
- Lunch at : Enjoy a delightful lunch at , where you can savor a hearty meal and a refreshing drink in a charming setting.
Afternoon:
- : After lunch, head to the (about a 45-minute drive). While the glowworm caves are a bit more suited for older kids, the short walking tours are still fascinating and can be enjoyed by all ages.
Evening:
- Dinner in Waitomo or Return to Auckland: Depending on your energy levels, you can either have dinner in Waitomo at a local café or head back to Auckland for dinner. If you return, consider dining at The Glass Goose again or trying La Porchetta for some Italian comfort food.
Tips for Traveling with a Toddler:
- Pack Snacks: Always have some snacks on hand for your little one, especially during drives.
- Stroller or Carrier: A lightweight stroller or a baby carrier can be handy for exploring.
- Flexible Schedule: Keep your plans flexible to accommodate nap times and any toddler whims!
I hope this itinerary gives you a fantastic taste of New Zealand’s beauty, culture, and delicious food while keeping it fun and easy for your little one! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✨