North to South New Zealand Family Trip: Nature, Cities & Adventure - 14 Days

Highlights

• Travel the winding, old-fashioned Driving Creek Railway to a pottery workshop 
• Glide through a glowworm grotto in an underground boat
• Explore "The Lord of the Rings" sets, filming locations, and stories on a full-day tour
• Swing through the treetops of Rotorua by zip line and canopy walkways
• Swim alongside playful dolphins in the waters off Akaroa

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland, Sky Tower Dinner

Welcome to New Zealand! Your driver will be waiting at Auckland Airport to transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to relax before heading out to explore New Zealand's largest city, which sits on a narrow strip of land surrounded by the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. With two bustling harbors, it's not hard to see why Auckland is nicknamed the "City of Sails." Do as you please today, whether that's spending time on the Viaduct Harbour and trying your hand at sailing an America's Cup yacht, or walking to the top of Auckland's highest volcano, Mount Eden, to take in soaring views of the Hauraki Gulf. 

If you're a family of country lovers, then just 40 minutes from Auckland by boat is the verdant Waiheke Island. Explore the island at your own pace on a Hop On Hop Off bus that goes past 16 stops, or stay on for a scenic 1.5-hour loop tour of the island. Stops include boutique vineyards, top-notch restaurants, shops, art galleries, beaches, and nature walks. Step off at the beach for an afternoon of sand castles and skipping stones, or let the kids run around in the vineyards while you enjoy a tasting at one of the many wineries.

Day 2: Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

Day 3: Drive to Rotorua, Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves

Grab some famous Auckland coffee (and hot chocolates to keep the kids happy), and begin a magical road trip south to Rotorua. Wind your way through JRR Tolkien's fictional Middle-earth and its Shire region. Traveling south from Auckland over the Bombay Hills, pass through the Waikato region's farmland, and over undulating green hills that signal your approach to "The Shire." Arrive at Hobbiton and take a guided adventure to see Hobbit holes, "The Mill," "Double Arch Bridge," and the "Party Tree." An ale, cider, or ginger beer will be waiting for you at "The Green Dragon Inn" at the end of your Hobbiton tour. 

The next part of your adventure takes you to Waitomo Caves, where you'll pass Lake Karapiro and cross the Arapuni Dam. Once at Waitomo Caves, marvel at natural limestone formations and glide through Glowworm Grotto by boat with glittering glowworms lighting your way. After a full day of magic and adventure, continue on to your hotel in Rotorua—one of the most active geothermal regions in the world—for a restful night's sleep. 

Day 4: Rotorua Forest Canopy Tour, Te Pā Tū Māori Feast  

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Get ready for an exciting day that the kids will love, monkeying through Rotorua's native forest via zip lines, swing bridges, tree platforms, and trails. While exploring this dynamic network of paths, lines, and bridges, take in sweeping views of the dense forest and surrounding hills. All the while, you'll be accompanied by a guide who'll share their passion and knowledge of the forest. 

Head back to your hotel for a rest before dining à la Māori during a three-course feast and four-hour celebration of dancing, music, and storytelling. An opening ceremony kicks off the festivities while you are served kai horotai (appetizers). Listen to stories and songs and watch dance performances in the forest amphitheater, then follow your Māori guide by torchlight to your three-course hākari (feast). Select from a table of hāngī dishes— a traditional New Zealand Māori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Rest and digest back at your hotel for the night.

Day 5: Drive to Tongariro National Park, Forgotten World Rail Cart Tour

Set out in the morning on this two-hour drive to the stunning Tongariro National Park. This is a perfect place for all the family to stretch their legs, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the wild side of New Zealand. A selection of recommended routes for families with children includes the Taranaki Falls Loop, which takes you to a powerful waterful cascading off a rocky cliff. The Tongariro River Suspension Bridge Loop also adds some adventure to your walk, as kids will love bouncing across a series of high-up suspension bridges.

In the afternoon, make your way to Taumarunui, where you will meet your guides at the Forgotten World Adventures depot. Set off down the line along the Forgotten World Railway, travel through 10 tunnels, and marvel at the stunning hill country farms and native bush. A lovely plowman's lunch awaits you at Tokirima, after which you will board your return shuttle. On the way back, you'll get to stop at Lauren's Lavender Farm for a memorable—and Instagrammable—afternoon walking through the purple fields and browsing the gift shop. Stay at your Tongariro National Park accommodation for the night.

Day 6: Drive to Wellington, Wellington Cable Car, Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary

Jump in the car and listen to some family favorite tunes for a 3.5-hour scenic drive from Tongariro National Park to Wellington, which is the North Island's southernmost city and the nation's capital. On arrival, get settled in your new hotel and then take a ride on New Zealand's only remaining funicular railway, the Wellington Cable Car. An iconic part of Wellington life for over 120 years, you'll be mixing with students, inner-city workers, and sightseers while enjoying great views of the city and harbor. Admire the view while sipping on refreshments from one of the cafés at the summit.

Afterward, walk to the nearby Space Place at Carter Observatory. Check out the multimedia exhibitions and astronomical artifacts before making your way through to the digital planetarium to explore the southern skies. This is as awe-inspiring for kids as it is for adults. If you have time and the kids feel like stretching their legs, walk downhill to the city through the beautiful Wellington Botanic Gardens. 

Day 7: The Lord of the Rings Full Day Tour, Explore Wellington  

Today, you'll go on an adventure to remember with a "The Lord of the Rings" tour. You'll visit local filming locations, view a short documentary showing the filmmaking exploits of Peter Jackson and his remarkable team, and be guided through the sights and sounds of the Wētā Workshop in Miramar. This is followed by a fascinating "Window into the Workshop" exhibition, showing film props and weaponry, with the artists themselves describing how the artifacts were created. After a local lunch, head north into the Hutt Valley following the "River Anduin" and take in the sights of "Helms Deep" before returning to the city.

There's plenty to do in Wellington during your free afternoon. Often referred to as "mini Melbourne," this windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel. You could head to the kid-friendly Te Papa Museum for a history lesson, or, for those with an eye for boutique fashion, wander through Cuba Street to sample some of the city's best vintage stores. 

Day 8: Fly to Queenstown, Gondola & Buffet Dinner

Get off to an early start and drop your car at the airport where you will board a flight. Today you'll cross over to New Zealand's South Island, beginning in Queenstown—a town on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the Southern Alps. This ruggedly beautiful region is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Here you can enjoy hair-raising thrills that include skydiving, extreme bungee jumping, jet boating, zip lining, and much more.

Besides adrenaline-pumping adventures, Queenstown is a great base for exploring Central Otago's vineyards and historic gold-mining towns. There are also hiking trails, mountain-biking routes, and a downhill luge track. Other great activities farther afield include a guided hike through Fiordland National Park and a scenic road trip to the Remarkables.

Day 9: Dart River Safaris, Half-Day Macetown 4WD Tour 

Today get ready for non-stop entertainment. Begin by journeying into Mount Aspiring National Park for an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride. Whiz along glacier-fed rivers while your guide shares Māori legends and historical information about the area. With sharp turns and 360-degree spins, you won't be short of thrills on this tour. Included is a chance to stop and walk in the beech tree forests used as filming locations in "The Lord of the Rings."

In the afternoon, hop in a 4WD vehicle and head north from Queenstown into the hills of the Southern Lakes region. You'll be following an old miners' wagon trail to Macetown, a historic mining settlement that's now a tourist attraction and protected reserve. On this fun off-roading adventure, and you'll cross the Arrow as well as a few streams and creeks on your way to Macetown. Once there, kids can explore the relics of this well-preserved settlement which include restored 19th-century structures like a battery, bakehouse, and cottage. Continue the tour back to Queenstown, where you'll spend the night.

Day 10: Drive to Lake Tekapo, Tekapo Springs Hot Pools

Pick up the second rental car of your vacation and drive through the scenic Kawarau Gorge and Gibbston wine country. Cromwell sits at the head of the gorge, and the historic old town is well worth the visit—the buildings are now home to quaint shops and cafés. You'll go through the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand's highest roads, with the summit reaching 3,185 feet (971m). Once you arrive at Lake Tekapo, drop your things at your lodging and spend a relaxing afternoon splashing around in the thermal pools and kid-friendly Aqua Play Area of Tekapo Springs. 

Day 11: Braemar Station Backcountry Tour, Dark Sky Project Summit Experience

Adventurous explorers of all ages will love today's look at the Mackenzie Country during a 4WD tour. The Mackenzie Basin extends approximately 62 miles (100 km) and is known for its sheep farming. You'll also enjoy private access to Braemar Station, a working farming outpost for sheep, beef, cattle, and deer. Throughout the day, treat yourself to marvelous views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, Lake Pukaki, and the Ben Ohau mountain range. Traveling on remote 4WD trails, you'll cross the High Country and see Tekapo's backcountry landscapes, all while snacking on light, homemade refreshments. 

Day 12: Drive to Christchurch, Historic Tram Dinner 

Say goodbye to Lake Tekapo as you descend from the high country through Burkes Pass and cross the vast Canterbury Plains toward Christchurch. Once you've arrived and dropped your things off at the hotel, you could opt for the Christchurch Triple Pass, where you will see the city's iconic attractions via tram, boat, and gondola. Visit the Spanish-style buildings of New Regent Street by tram, enjoy a bird's-eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region—including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps—on the gondola, and punt across the Avon River / Ōtākaro.

Treat yourselves to a family dinner with a difference this evening as you board a colonial-style restaurant tram. The elegant decor and delicious four-course meal that takes place while you watch passing views of the Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, and the Avon River / Ōtākaro, make this one of Christchurch's top attractions. Go back to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening before heading out to sea tomorrow!

Day 13: Swim with Dolphins in Akaroa

Today you'll pack your swimsuits and cameras and join a small group tour. Travel over the beautiful Banks Peninsula on a high summit route that gives glorious views of farmlands, the Canterbury Plains, and the distant Southern Alps, as well as remote bays indenting the coastline.

On arrival at the main wharf in Akaroa, you'll board a boat, set off into the harbor, and drop anchor at some of the local dolphin's favorite hangouts. Ages eight and above can experience the thrill of swimming alongside the small, wild Hector's dolphins, while younger ages can spectate from the boat. These are the smallest and rarest oceanic dolphins in the world, and this natural experience allows the playful mammals to interact with swimmers as they please. 

Afterward, you will have an opportunity to wander around the charming 175-year-old French harbourside village of Akaroa with its museum of settlers' history, art and craft shops, and studios before enjoying lunch at an award-winning café. On the return journey to Christchurch, visit the Cheese Factory at Barry's Bay, the Little River Art Gallery, and, if time permits, Vince's Gem Stone Museum.

Day 14: Depart Christchurch 

If you have time, stretch your legs in one of Christchurch's many parks and indulge in your last New Zealand brunch before boarding your flight back home. Safe travels!

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