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22 Day itinerary toNew Zealand
22
days03/01/25 - 24/01/25
Distance by day
Local travel distance per day in km.Pan drag left and right to see all data.
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Day 1
Auckland AirportâžžAuckland City Center
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 20 km
Morning
- Arrive at Auckland Airport, pick up rental car, and head to the city center.
- Explore the Auckland Domain, a large park in the city, perfect for a morning walk.
- Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, showcasing the history of New Zealand and its people.
Afternoon
- Stroll down Queen Street to browse local shops and hit the local markets at Britomart.
- Visit Sky Tower for panoramic views of Auckland and learn about its history.
- Explore the art installations around Auckland Art Gallery.
- Relax at Viaduct Harbour with a waterfront view.
Evening
- Have dinner at a mid-range restaurant in the Wynyard Quarter.
- Take an evening walk along the waterfront and see the street art displays.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Auckland City Center
Day 2
Auckland City CenterâžžWaitakere Ranges Regional Park
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 30 km
Morning
- Drive to Waitakere Ranges for a nature walk, ideal for early risers.
- Visit Arataki Visitor Centre to learn about the local flora and fauna.
- Hike to Karekare Waterfall for some outdoor photography.
Afternoon
- Head to Piha Beach for surfing or a beach walk.
- Explore the black sand of Muriwai Beach and the nearby gannet colony.
- Visit the local market in Titirangi Village for artisanal crafts.
- Return to Auckland and stop by the historic One Tree Hill.
Evening
- Have dinner in Ponsonby, known for its dining and nightlife.
- Attend a live music performance at a local venue in the city.
Accomodation
- Same hotel in Auckland City Center
Day 3
Auckland City CenterâžžWaiheke Island
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 30 km
Morning
- Take a ferry to Waiheke Island.
- Visit the local Saturday market in Ostend for local products and crafts.
- Explore Oneroa Beach and village for a leisurely morning.
Afternoon
- Tour local vineyards and enjoy wine tasting.
- Hike at Whakanewha Regional Park, known for its biodiversity.
- Visit Connells Bay Sculpture Park to view contemporary outdoor sculptures.
- Relax at Onetangi Beach and explore the nearby cafes and shops.
Evening
- Return to Auckland by ferry.
- Enjoy a seafood dinner at the Harbor Side Dining precinct.
Accomodation
- Same hotel in Auckland City Center
Day 4
AucklandâžžMatamata (Hobbiton)
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 161 km
Morning
- Drive to Matamata to visit Hobbiton Movie Set.
- Join a guided tour of the iconic film location from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
- Visit the Shire's Rest Café for coffee and snacks.
Afternoon
- Continue the drive to Rotorua to experience geothermal wonders.
- Visit Te Puia for geysers and Maori cultural experiences.
- Explore the Government Gardens, a public park with a variety of horticultural displays.
- Visit the Rotorua Museum located within the historic Bath House building.
Evening
- Relax at the Polynesian Spa with geothermal mineral bathing therapies.
- Dine at a local restaurant with traditional Maori Hangi.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Rotorua
Day 5
RotoruaâžžWaitomo
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 140 km
Morning
- Drive to Waitomo, famous for its glowworm caves.
- Take a guided tour of the Waitomo Caves to see the glowworms.
- Experience the Ruakuri Cave for unique limestone formations.
Afternoon
- Visit the Mangapohue Natural Bridge for a scenic reserve walk.
- Explore Marokopa Falls via walking trails for scenic photography.
- Drive to Hamilton and explore Hamilton Gardens.
- Visit Classics Museum to see vintage cars and paraphernalia.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner in central Hamilton at a locally recommended spot.
- Visit a nearby pub for a local craft beer experience.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Hamilton
Day 6
HamiltonâžžNew Plymouth
Travel time: 3.5 hr| Travel distance: 230 km
Morning
- Drive to New Plymouth, a coastal city known for its gardens.
- Visit Pukekura Park, one of New Zealand’s premier botanical gardens.
- Explore the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, which is notable for its contemporary exhibitions.
Afternoon
- Walk the Coastal Walkway, which offers views of the ocean and Mount Taranaki.
- Explore Pukeiti, a world-renowned rhododendron garden.
- Visit the Len Lye Centre, a modern museum with kinetic sculptures.
- Relax on Ngamotu Beach for some beachside leisure.
Evening
- Dine at an oceanfront restaurant featuring local seafood cuisine.
- Attend the Festival of Lights in summer at Pukekura Park.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in New Plymouth
Day 7
New PlymouthâžžWhanganui
Travel time: 2.5 hr| Travel distance: 155 km
Morning
- Drive to Whanganui, an historic riverside town.
- Explore Durie Hill Elevator for panoramic views of the surrounding region.
- Visit the Sarjeant Gallery, noted for its art collection.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic walk along the Whanganui River.
- Explore the Whanganui Regional Museum and learn about local history.
- Visit the local weekend market for crafts and food.
- Walk along the old Whanganui Riverboat Centre, a unique piece of history.
Evening
- Dine at a local restaurant with river views.
- Attend an event or exhibit if available at the local opera house.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Whanganui
Day 8
WhanganuiâžžWellington
Travel time: 3 hr| Travel distance: 190 km
Morning
- Drive to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.
- Explore the Wellington Botanic Garden, a popular spot for early walkers.
- Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand, providing insight into the country's history and culture.
Afternoon
- Explore the Zealandia Ecosanctuary, dedicated to the conservation of native wildlife.
- Ride the Wellington Cable Car for city views.
- Stroll through Cuba Street, known for its alternative culture and street art.
- Visit the Beehive and Parliament Buildings, cornerstones of Wellington's political landscape.
Evening
- Dine at a local restaurant featuring fresh local produce.
- Take a night walk in the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary to spot nocturnal animals.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Wellington
Day 9
WellingtonâžžMarlborough
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 92 km
Morning
- Fly from Wellington to Marlborough, known for its wineries.
- Visit the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival if available during the visit.
- Explore a vineyard tour focusing on sustainable winemaking practices.
Afternoon
- Visit Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre for World War history displays.
- Take a walk around Blenheim's public gardens.
- Learn about local Maori history at Te Pataka a Tangata Weymouth House
- Visit Picton Marina for a look at this picturesque port town.
Evening
- Dinner at a vineyard restaurant with a focus on regional cuisine.
- Stay in a boutique Bed & Breakfast offering garden views.
Accomodation
- Boutique Bed & Breakfast in Marlborough
Day 10
MarlboroughâžžNelson
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 115 km
Morning
- Drive to Nelson, known for its arts and culture scene.
- Visit the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum.
- Explore Nelson city markets, renowned for local artisanal products.
Afternoon
- Visit the beautifully landscaped Queens Gardens.
- Walk through Founders Heritage Park, featuring local history exhibits.
- Stroll along Tahunanui Beach for a variety of beach activities.
- Explore the Nelson Provincial Museum for related historical displays.
Evening
- Dinner at a seafood restaurant on the Nelson waterfront.
- Visit a local craft brewery or pub for evening drinks.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Nelson
Day 11
NelsonâžžAbel Tasman National Park
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 65 km
Morning
- Drive to Abel Tasman National Park, renowned for its coastlines.
- Kayak along the park's coastline for unique marine scenery.
- Walk part of the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Afternoon
- Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's picturesque beaches.
- Explore Cleopatra's Pool, a natural rock pool with a slide.
- Visit the Abel Tasman Visitor Centre for detailed trails information.
- Hike further into native bush to discover more secluded spots.
Evening
- Drive back to Nelson.
- Have dinner at a recommended local bistro.
Accomodation
- Return and stay at the same accommodation in Nelson
Day 12
NelsonâžžPunakaiki
Travel time: 4.5 hr| Travel distance: 240 km
Morning
- Drive along the scenic highway to Punakaiki.
- Visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes for geological interest.
- Walk the various tracks at Paparoa National Park.
Afternoon
- Explore Pororari River Track for native flora and birdwatching.
- Visit Truman Track offering coastal views and beach access.
- Check out local Punakaiki craft galleries.
- Witness the dramatic coastal scenery along the West Coast Road.
Evening
- Have dinner at a local tavern offering views of the rugged coastline.
- Settle in at a local motel with views over the sea.
Accomodation
- Seaside motel in Punakaiki
Day 13
PunakaikiâžžFranz Josef
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 220 km
Morning
- Travel to Franz Josef, home of the famous glacier.
- Stop en route at Hokitika to visit the National Kiwi Centre.
- Explore Hokitika Gorge with its vibrant turquoise waters.
Afternoon
- Arrive in Franz Josef and visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre.
- Take a heli-hike for an aerial perspective of the Franz Josef Glacier.
- Visit the Glacier Hot Pools for relaxation and spa treatments.
Evening
- Have dinner at a local restaurant specialized in Alpine cuisine.
- Attend an evening presentation on local glacier history and preservation.
Accomodation
- Mid-range lodge in Franz Josef village
Day 14
Franz JosefâžžWanaka
Travel time: 3.5 hr| Travel distance: 285 km
Morning
- Drive to Wanaka, a town set against the backdrop of Southern Alps.
- Stop at Fox Glacier for short nature walks.
- Visit Lake Matheson and capture stunning reflections of Mount Cook.
Afternoon
- Arrive in Wanaka and walk around the town center.
- Visit Puzzling World with its weird architectural designs.
- Explore the transport and toy collection at the Warbirds & Wheels Museum.
- Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wanaka.
Evening
- Dine at a lakeside restaurant enjoying mountain views.
- Relax with a drink at a local bar featuring New Zealand wines.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Wanaka
Day 15
WanakaâžžQueenstown
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 70 km
Morning
- Drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
- Ride the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
- Visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park to see and learn about native New Zealand species.
Afternoon
- Explore Queenstown Gardens with its extensive walking paths.
- Take a Shotover Jet ride for white-knuckle speed along the Shotover River.
- Visit Arrowtown to admire its preserved gold-rush architecture.
- Take a walk around Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in New Zealand.
Evening
- Try a gourmet burger from the famed Fergburger.
- Join a ghost tour exploring Queenstown's haunted spots.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Queenstown
Day 16
QueenstownâžžMilford Sound
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 290 km
Morning
- Drive to Milford Sound, noted for its dramatic fjord scenery.
- Stop by Te Anau for quick refreshments and leg-stretch.
- Join a morning boat cruise on Milford Sound for views of Mitre Peak and waterfalls.
Afternoon
- Explore hiking trails such as the Key Summit Track in the Fiordland National Park.
- Visit the Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory.
- Take in views along the Milford Highway, one of the world's most beautiful drives.
- Return to Te Anau for a late lunch.
Evening
- Have dinner in Te Anau before heading back to Queenstown.
- Rest at your accommodation back in Queenstown.
Accomodation
- Return and stay at the same accommodation in Queenstown
Day 17
QueenstownâžžMount Cook
Travel time: 3.5 hr| Travel distance: 260 km
Morning
- Drive to Mount Cook Village, known for its alpine beauty.
- Stop at Lindis Pass for breathtaking views of the mountains.
- Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre for trail maps.
Afternoon
- Hike the Hooker Valley Track for iconic views of Mount Cook.
- Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, commemorating the famed climber.
- Relax by the glacial-fed Lake Pukaki.
- Explore the Short Walks of Mount Cook for additional photography opportunities.
Evening
- Dinner at a local lodge with views over the mountains.
- Join a stargazing tour in the International Dark Sky Reserve.
Accomodation
- Mid-range lodge in Mount Cook Village
Day 18
Mount CookâžžChristchurch
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 330 km
Morning
- Drive to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island.
- Stop at Lake Tekapo to see the Church of the Good Shepherd and the lake's turquoise waters.
- Visit the Tekapo Springs for relaxation in hot pools.
Afternoon
- Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
- Visit Canterbury Museum for a history overview on the region.
- Take a guided tour around the Christchurch Art Gallery.
- Walk along the Avon River precinct with an optional punt ride.
Evening
- Have dinner at a local eatery focused on Canterbury cuisine.
- Attend an evening performance or event at the Isaac Theatre Royal.
Accomodation
- Mid-range hotel in Christchurch
Day 19
ChristchurchâžžAkaroa
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 90 km
Morning
- Drive to Akaroa, a quaint seaside town with French influences.
- Explore Banks Peninsula's scenic routes and short walks.
- Visit the giant's house, a historic garden with mosaics.
Afternoon
- Take a harbour cruise to observe Hector's dolphins and other wildlife.
- Visit Akaroa Museum to learn about the town's French history.
- Walk up Rue Lavaud, experiencing Akaroa's French-influenced architecture.
- Taste cheese at Barry's Bay Cheese for local delicacies.
Evening
- Dine on French-inspired cuisine at a waterfront restaurant.
- Stay overnight in a charming guesthouse with historic decor.
Accomodation
- Charming guesthouse in Akaroa
Day 20
AkaroaâžžKaikoura
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 222 km
Morning
- Drive to Kaikoura, known for marine life excursions.
- Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for coastal views.
- Stop at Ohau Point to view the New Zealand Fur Seal Colony.
Afternoon
- Join a whale watching tour to potentially see sperm and humpback whales.
- Visit the Kaikoura Museum for maritime and local history displays.
- Explore Fyffe House, a historic whaler's abode and the oldest building in Kaikoura.
- Walk the Kaikoura Historic Walk, focused on the town's past.
Evening
- Dine at a local seafood restaurant, famous for crayfish.
- Stay in a seaside motel with beautiful views.
Accomodation
- Seaside motel in Kaikoura
Day 21
KaikouraâžžHanmer Springs
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 134 km
Morning
- Drive to Hanmer Springs, known for its thermal pools.
- Visit the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools for rejuvenation.
- Walk through the Hanmer Heritage Forest trails for views and serenity.
Afternoon
- Explore Conical Hill Walkway offering panoramic views over the town.
- Visit a boutique winery for local Nelson-certified wine tasting.
- Join a forest adventure for active zip line and obstacle fun.
- Enjoy the landscaped gardens and playground areas in the village.
Evening
- Dine in an alpine-styled restaurant offering local game meats.
- Rest in comfort at a local lodge with views of the surrounding landscapes.
Accomodation
- Local lodge in Hanmer Springs
Day 22
Hanmer SpringsâžžChristchurch
Travel time: 2.5 hr| Travel distance: 134 km
Morning
- Drive back to Christchurch.
- Visit the International Antarctic Centre to learn about Antarctic research.
- Walk around the Christchurch Cathedral Square, known for its historic architecture.
Afternoon
- Explore Riccarton Bush, the last remaining lowland podocarp forest.
- Visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand to see historic aircraft collections.
- Check out the Cardboard Cathedral, an unusual architectural marvel.
- Shop for last-minute souvenirs at local markets.
Evening
- Enjoy a farewell dinner in the city's cultural district restaurant.
- Overnight stay at a hotel near the Christchurch Airport before departure.
Accomodation
- Hotel near Christchurch Airport
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Tags
early-risers
active
adventure
camping
cultural-experience
history
local-markets
nature-outdoors
street-art
wildlife
sustainable
relaxation
photography
Time of the year
January in New Zealand is summer with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). This is typically warm and dry, especially in the North Island, with occasional rain showers in the South.
January is peak tourist season due to summer holidays. Expect busy attractions and bookings may be required in advance for popular sites and accommodations.
Useful information
- Ensure bookings for activities like whale watching or heli-hiking are made in advance.
- Weather conditions in mountainous and coastal areas can change quickly; be prepared for rain even in summer.
- Public holidays: Waitangi Day is celebrated on February 6.
- Rental cars are recommended, especially for South Island travel due to fewer public transport options.
Weather forecast - 16 days
Showing forecasted weather for the upcoming 16 days in New Zealand.
