8 day itinerary
South Island New Zealand
Personalized with:Make it family friendly
Itinerary
South Island, New Zealand, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and family-friendly attractions. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories!
Day 1: Arrival in
Morning:
- Arrive in , the largest city in the South Island. After checking into your family-friendly accommodation, grab a hearty breakfast at a local café.
Afternoon:
- Head to the . The kids will love exploring the beautiful gardens, and you can take a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the city center. Try The Bicycle Thief for some delicious Italian food!
Day 2: to
Morning:
- After breakfast, hit the road to (about a 3-hour drive). The scenery along the way is breathtaking, so make sure to stop for photos!
Afternoon:
- Once you arrive, visit the and take in the stunning views of the turquoise lake. The kids can run around the nearby park.
Evening:
- Have dinner at a local eatery, like Mackenzie’s Café, and if the weather permits, consider a stargazing tour later in the evening. is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve!
Day 3: to Mount Cook
Morning:
- After breakfast, drive to (about 1 hour).
Afternoon:
- Explore the . It’s a relatively easy walk (about 3 hours return) that offers stunning views of Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers. The kids will love the swing bridges!
Evening:
- Enjoy a family dinner at the Hermitage Hotel with views of the mountains.
Day 4: Mount Cook to
Morning:
- Depart Mount Cook and head to (about a 3-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Once in , take the for panoramic views of the area. The luge rides at the top are a hit with families!
Evening:
- Have dinner at Fergburger—a must-try for their famous burgers. The kids will love the casual vibe!
Day 5: Adventure Day in
Morning:
- After breakfast, spend the morning at . You can rent bikes or just stroll around.
Afternoon:
- Head to for an exhilarating jet boat ride. It’s thrilling but safe for families!
Evening:
- Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Cow, a cozy pizzeria that’s perfect for families.
Day 6: Day Trip to
Early Morning:
- Depart early for a day trip to (about a 4-hour drive). Consider taking a scenic cruise to see the stunning fjords.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy the cruise, and keep an eye out for dolphins and seals! The scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
Evening:
- Return to for a late dinner. Grab something quick and easy, like fish and chips from The Fishbone.
Day 7: to
Morning:
- After breakfast, drive to (about a 4-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Once you arrive, take a guided glacier walk or a scenic helicopter flight (if the weather permits). The kids will be amazed by the ice formations!
Evening:
- Have dinner at The Landing, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious meals.
Day 8: Franz Josef to
Morning:
- Start your journey back to (about a 5-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Stop at on the way to visit the . The turquoise waters are stunning, and it’s a great spot for a picnic!
Evening:
- Arrive back in . Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Press Club, where you can reflect on your amazing South Island adventure!
Tips for Traveling with Family:
- Always check the weather and road conditions, especially in mountainous areas.
- Pack snacks and entertainment for the car rides.
- Make sure to have a mix of activities to keep everyone engaged!
I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories on your South Island adventure! Enjoy every moment! 🌟