25 day itinerary
South Island New Zealand
Personalized with:Make it family friendly
Itinerary
A 25-day adventure in New Zealand's South Island sounds like a dream come true, especially for a family! The South Island is packed with stunning landscapes, fun activities, and plenty of opportunities for family bonding. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly fun!
Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch
- Morning: Arrive in Christchurch. Settle into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore the Botanic Gardens. Kids will love the playground and the beautiful scenery.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the city center.
Day 2: Christchurch to
- Morning: Drive to (about 1.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
- Afternoon: Take a harbor cruise to see the playful Hector's dolphins.
- Evening: Stroll through the charming French-inspired town and have dinner at a local café.
Day 3: to Lake Tekapo
- Morning: Depart for Lake Tekapo (about 3 hours). Stop at the beautiful Lake Alexandrina on the way.
- Afternoon: Visit the and take a family photo with the iconic sheep statue.
- Evening: Stargazing at the .
Day 4: Lake Tekapo
- Morning: Enjoy a family-friendly hike around the lake or rent bikes.
- Afternoon: Visit the for some hot pools and fun water activities.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy a picnic dinner by the lake.
Day 5: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook
- Morning: Drive to (about 1 hour).
- Afternoon: Take the (easy hike) for stunning views of Mount Cook.
- Evening: Dinner at the Hermitage Hotel with a view of the mountains.
Day 6: Mount Cook
- Morning: Go on a family-friendly glacier tour or a scenic flight over the mountains.
- Afternoon: Visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a cozy family dinner at your accommodation.
Day 7: Mount Cook to
- Morning: Depart for (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the town and take a ride on the for breathtaking views.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in .
Day 8:
- Morning: Go on a family-friendly jet boat ride on the .
- Afternoon: Visit the to see native wildlife.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake.
Day 9:
- Morning: Take a day trip to (consider a bus tour with stops).
- Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic cruise on the sound, spotting waterfalls and wildlife.
- Evening: Return to for dinner.
Day 10: to
- Morning: Drive to (about 45 minutes).
- Afternoon: Explore the stunning landscapes and take a family-friendly hike in the area.
- Evening: Return to for dinner.
Day 11: to Wanaka
- Morning: Depart for Wanaka (about 1 hour).
- Afternoon: Visit , a fun attraction for the whole family.
- Evening: Stroll along the lakefront and have dinner.
Day 12: Wanaka
- Morning: Go for a family hike to (or a shorter trail if preferred).
- Afternoon: Visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a family BBQ at your accommodation.
Day 13: Wanaka to Franz Josef
- Morning: Drive to Franz Josef (about 3.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the and take a guided walk.
- Evening: Relax in the hot pools at Franz Josef.
Day 14: Franz Josef
- Morning: Take a scenic helicopter flight over the glacier (weather permitting).
- Afternoon: Explore the local area or take a short hike.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Franz Josef to Hokitika
- Morning: Depart for Hokitika (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the for stunning views and a short walk.
- Evening: Explore the town and enjoy dinner.
Day 16: Hokitika to Punakaiki
- Morning: Drive to Punakaiki (about 1 hour).
- Afternoon: Visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local café.
Day 17: Punakaiki to Nelson
- Morning: Depart for Nelson (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the local markets and shops.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.
Day 18: Nelson
- Morning: Take a day trip to . Enjoy a family-friendly kayak tour or a scenic walk.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach and have a picnic.
- Evening: Return to Nelson for dinner.
Day 19: Nelson to
- Morning: Drive to (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the town and take a walk along the waterfront.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 20: to
- Morning: Depart for (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Go on a whale-watching tour (family-friendly options available).
- Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner.
Day 21: to Christchurch
- Morning: Drive back to Christchurch (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the and the .
- Evening: Dinner in the city.
Day 22: Christchurch to
- Morning: Depart for (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Enjoy the hot springs and family-friendly activities in the area.
- Evening: Relax and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 23:
- Morning: Go for a family hike in the surrounding forest.
- Afternoon: Try out some adventure activities like zip-lining or mountain biking.
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner.
Day 24: to Christchurch
- Morning: Return to Christchurch (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or visit any attractions you missed.
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.
Day 25: Departure
- Morning: Pack up and head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A fun-filled, family-friendly 25-day itinerary exploring the breathtaking South Island of New Zealand. Each day is packed with activities that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time. Enjoy your adventure! 🌏✈️