Sustainable New Zealand Road Trip: An Eco-Friendly Journey from Auckland to Queenstown - 13 Days

Highlights

• See the lights of Auckland City twinkle from a relaxing sunset dinner cruise
• Savor a twilight progressive dinner in Hawkes Bay's vineyard restaurants
• Get up close to humpback and sperm whales in Kaikoura
• Gaze in awe at the Milky Way at the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve in Tekapo
• Hike in the bootprints of legendary mountaineers on Aoraki / Mount Cook

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland, Sunset Dinner Cruise

Welcome to New Zealand! Your shuttle driver will meet you at the airport and transport you to your Auckland accommodation. Once refreshed, head out to explore—this "Big Little City" has much to offer. Get your bearings with a trip to the top of the Sky Tower (1,076 ft/ 328 m) and brave the 630-foot-high (192 m) Sky Walk. Check out world-class shopping and food scenes in Britomart, the Vineyard Quarter, or Victoria Market, or enjoy the fresh air and panoramic views on a walk up Maungawhau / Mount Eden, the highest of the city's 52 dormant volcanic cones. 

With two natural harbors, Auckland deserves its "City of Sails" moniker. Make the most of it this evening with a memorable dining experience on a sunset cruise around Waitematā Harbour. The crew will point out key landmarks on the way to Westhaven Marina while you relax with a drink and canapes, followed by the main course. Finish the evening with a mouthwatering dessert as you return to Viaduct Harbour amid the city's sparkling lights. 

Day 2: Auckland City Tour, Waiheke Island Wine Tasting

After breakfast, head out for a three-hour city tour. Starting at Queen Street, walk through the central business district, past the university, and through the Domain. Continue through Ponsonby, a lively suburb with historic buildings, restaurants, and boutiques. Head over the Harbour Bridge to the North Shore, where you can stroll on white-sand beaches and enjoy one of New Zealand's famously good coffees. Walk up Mount Victoria to take great panoramic shots of the city before heading back over the bridge to Westhaven Marina and the Viaduct Harbour. 

Day 3: Drive to Taupō, Māori Rock Carving Cruise

This morning, a driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the rental car company—it's time to pick up your EV (electric vehicle) and head to your next destination. About 3.5 hours from Auckland, you'll reach Taupō, the North Island's premier outdoor activity destination. Be sure to stop off at the Huka Falls, a photographic highlight—see the waters of the Waikato River propelled through a volcanic gorge at a rate of 220,000 liters per second. Seafood fans should have lunch at Huka Prawn Park, or drive into town for a broad selection of quality cafés and restaurants. 

In the afternoon, head out for a 2.5-hour eco-friendly cruise of the lake on board an electric yacht. Explore Lake Taupō's hidden bays and glide alongside the spectacular modern Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, all without the noise and fumes of a diesel engine. Enjoy light refreshments and take a dip in the lake. Sit back and take in the view, or learn to hoist the sails and take a turn at the wheel if you prefer. Afterward, step out for dinner in town and visit one or two local bars. 

Day 4: Orakei Korako Geothermal Walk

An easy 30-minute drive from Taupō, you'll find the "Hidden Valley," Orakei Korako Geothermal Park. Grab your tickets and a hot coffee at the Visitor Center before taking a boat ride over the Waikato River and entering the park proper. The walkway threads through a turbulent blend of bright silica terraces, 23 active natural geysers, boiling springs, and mud pools. You'll also dip in and out of the cool, peaceful native bush as you make your way around. Don't miss the Ruatapu Cave, a rare geothermal cave extending 155 feet (35 m) down to an acidic, warm thermal pool, the Pool of Mirrors.

Drive back to Taupō for the afternoon. Depending on your mood, get active with parachuting, bungee jumping, jet boating, or relax at the Wairakei Terraces with a thermal spa and massage. Go for a dip in the lake, or hire a rod and go trout fishing in one of the nearby rivers. If you want to continue exploring the geothermal side of things, head to the Volcanic Activity Center or take the 45-minute Crater of the Moon loop walk through steaming fumaroles a short drive out of town. 

Day 5: Drive to Havelock North, Wine Tour & Twilight Progressive Dinner

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Hit the road after breakfast for the 2.5-hour drive to Havelock North. Two hours in, stop off in Napier. Exploring the city center is like taking a trip back in time due to the high concentration of Art Deco buildings constructed after the 1931 earthquake devastated the region. To gain a deeper understanding, pop into the Hawkes Bay Museum, which features plenty of fascinating displays on seismic activity and the Art Deco style. Stroll along the picturesque Marine Parade, where you'll find the National Aquarium, then drive to your Havelock North accommodation. 

Leave the car behind and enjoy a guided afternoon of wine tasting at five of Hawke's Bay's finest vineyards. Producing around 90% of New Zealand's syrah, cabernet, and merlot, the region is well-known for its reds, but you'll also find impressive chardonnay. You needn't end the fun here, though—consider joining the Twilight Progressive Winery Dinner. Beginning with sparkling wine and panoramic views at Te Mata Peak, you'll dine at three top restaurants, enjoying gourmet food paired with fine local wines. 

Day 6: Foodie's Day Out in Hawkes Bay

You've hit the jackpot in Hawke's Bay if you love fine wines and dining. The wine tours yesterday will have given you a good head start, but with over thirty cellar-door restaurants in the region and many other eateries, there are plenty more delights to discover. Seafood lovers should head to Crab Farm Winery, or visit the Farm at Cape Kidnappers for seasonal produce harvested and farmed primarily on-site. The Mangapapa Kitchen offers a popular five-course dining experience, or stop in earlier in the day for high tea.

Other fun food-based activities include strawberry picking at Havelock North's Strawberry Patch (September to March) or honey tasting at the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre. Rush Munro's is New Zealand's oldest ice cream shop, and Te Mata Figs offers delicious treats made from their organic figs. If you need to work up a bit of an appetite between destinations, head out to Waimarama Beach near Havelock North for a stroll or a swim, or walk one of Te Mata Peak's scenic trails. There's also plenty of boutique shopping awaiting you in town.

Day 7: Drive to Wellington, Wildlife Sanctuary Night Tour

Rise bright and early for the 4.5-hour drive to Wellington via the Wairarapa. Points of interest en route include the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre near Eketahuna and The Woolshed: The National Museum of Sheep and Shearing in Masterton. The Wairarapa region, located just the other side of the Remutaka Range from Wellington, is another of New Zealand's agricultural and viticultural hubs. Pause for lunch or tastings at one of the many vineyards, cafés, or restaurants. Cheese fans should be sure not to miss C'est Cheese in Featherston, a specialist store where you can find a multitude of handmade New Zealand cheeses—including on-site, at the Remutaka Pass Creamery.

Once you reach Wellington, New Zealand's political capital, check in to your accommodation and leave the car—the inner city is compact, easily walkable, and loaded with shops and eateries. Head to the waterfront for a scenic coastal walk, and pop into Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum, for innovative exhibitions displaying the country's history and culture. A walk down Lambton Quay will deliver you to the Parliament Buildings, or take the cable car up to the Botanical Gardens for great views over the city. Fans of "The Lord of the Rings" should make a beeline for the Wētā Cave in Miramar and tour the workshop and museum there.

At dusk, drive up to the suburb of Karori to one of New Zealand's top conservation attractions, Zealandia. The world's first urban ecosanctuary, its predator-proof circumference ensures a haven for some of the country's most rare and beautiful reptiles, insects, and birds. The torch-lit night tour is a fantastic opportunity to see the iconic kiwi in its natural environment. You're also likely to spot frogs, parrots, glowworms, and the "living dinosaur," the Tuatara. Head down to the inner city afterward for another taste of Wellington's excellent culinary scene and nightlife.

Day 8: Ferry & Drive to Kaikōura, Wildlife Tour, Kayaking & Supper Club

Have breakfast early and drive to the ferry terminal for the morning crossing of the Cook Strait to the South Island. Park your car in the designated area, then head to the passenger deck, relax, and enjoy the view. Once you arrive in Picton, hit the road and drive two hours south to Kaikōura. This area is world famous for its marine fauna—tours are available by sea or air to observe whales, dolphins, seals, and albatross, or spend the afternoon fishing on a charter vessel. Round the sightseeing off with a guided sunset kayak tour and paddle around with fur seals as they search for their evening meal of octopus.

Kaikōura is naturally also famous for delicious fresh seafood. You'll find lobster (known locally as crayfish) available from various eateries and vendors or for a dining experience with a difference, book a seat at Hapuku. The kitchen offers several cooking classes, but your best bet for the evening is The Supper Club. Dine in the owners' home and get to know some friendly locals in an intimate 12-seat setting. Feast on locally grown or foraged ingredients, while your hosts tell you stories of the people and places behind the food. Complement your meal with carefully selected wines, local beers, gin, or homemade sodas.

Day 9: Drive to Christchurch, Historic Tram Dinner

This morning's drive will take you 2.5 hours south to Christchurch, the South Island's largest city. Take a 30-minute detour and stop at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools for a relaxing soak, or head on down to the Waipara Valley, a relatively new but thriving wine region—pick up a bottle or two of pinot noir, chardonnay, or riesling, then continue to Christchurch.

Although badly damaged in the February 2011 earthquake, the city is strong and vibrant, and the modern and creative pedestrian-friendly reconstruction adds to its existing historic charm. It's a lovely place to wander, with abundant green spaces, cafés, markets, museums, and boutiques. After you've checked in to your accommodation, savor the atmosphere with a peaceful punt along the Avon River / Ōtākaro. Then, pop into the Riverside Market and purchase a few delicacies before heading to the park for a picnic.

Allow three hours in the evening for a leisurely trip through the inner city on a colonial tram. After a helpful commentary about the sights you'll be passing, sit back and enjoy a four-course gourmet dinner showcasing local ingredients. Sip a glass of fine wine as you ride by the lights and landmarks of the central city and along the Avon River / Ōtākaro. After the tour, return to your accommodation and relax for the evening—or head out and enjoy Christchurch's buzzing nightlife.

Day 10: Drive to Lake Tekapo, Dark Sky Experience

Drive into the heart of the South Island this morning, heading three hours southwest over the vast Canterbury Plains and into the Mackenzie Country. On the high country plateau, you'll reach the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo. It's New Zealand's largest high lake, and its bright turquoise tones attract many visitors. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and located in the world's largest dark sky reserve, this is a place to simply stand in awe of nature's beauty. 

Tekapo is home to some famous photo spots—the Church of the Good Shepherd and the nearby sheepdog memorial are easily accessible and popular sights. From September through February, you'll see the lake lined with colorful lupine flowers. Find your favorite place among the bright blooms to take a snap against the mountain backdrop. Consider booking a scenic flight for a bird's-eye view of the region's brilliant lakes, glacial valleys, and rugged mountainscape. Alternatively, take in the views from the comfort of the Tekapo Springs hot pools. 

Afterward, return to your accommodation and rest for a few hours before driving 10 minutes to the world-renowned Mount John Observatory for a two-hour stargazing experience. With little light and air pollution and an altitude of 3,376 feet (1,029 m), this is one of the best places in the world to observe the Milky Way—and the powerful telescopes and knowledgeable guide will further enhance your experience. After this extraordinary evening, return to your warm bed and rest for tomorrow. 

Day 11: Aoraki / Mount Cook Hiking, Drive to Wānaka, Hot Tubs, Wine Tour & Dinner

Rise and eat a delicious and hearty breakfast—you're fuelling a morning of hiking on the training ground of mountaineering legend Sir Edmund Hillary. Before you get too worried, you'll find that Aoraki / Mount Cook has something for every fitness level and time frame. If you're anxious to get back on the road, stick to the shorter routes—the Bowen Bush Walk, for example, takes only 10 minutes. Alternatively, make a morning of it with the famous four-hour Hooker Valley hike.

Next up is Wānaka, a two-hour drive south. If you like, stop halfway at Ōmarama's sustainable outdoor hot tubs. Featuring locally sourced timber hot tubs and saunas, fresh mountain water heated to just the right temperature, and incredible Alpine views, this is just about the perfect break. There are also superchargers available for your EV while you relax. 

When you reach Wānaka, check in to your accommodation, then, if time allows, head out on a wine tour. A half-day tour will take you to four vineyards to sample delicious local wines and cheeses, but if time is short, head to Rippon, one of the world's southernmost vineyards—savor the wine and the views stretching over Lake Wānaka to the Southern Alps. Dinner is at Bistro Gentil, down on the lake's shores just out of town. Relax in the quaint, lavender-surrounded French restaurant and watch the sunset over the lake. 

Day 12: Lavender & Honey Farm, Drive to Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw Dinner

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and take a short drive to Wānaka Lavender Farm. Wander the attractive display gardens and lavender fields, meet a few friendly farm animals, then relax over tea and sneak a few sweet treats—don't forget to sample the locally produced Lakes Honey. Afterward, head to your next destination, Queenstown, just an hour away. You'll drive over New Zealand's highest sealed road, the Crown Range Road—if you're lucky, you may even meet kea (mountain parrots) at one of the lookouts. 

Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital—try bungee jumping, sky diving, whitewater rafting, or jet boating. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, there are several magnificent hikes and guided walks—the Ben Lomond Track is particularly well-known for its spectacular views over Queenstown, Wakatipu, and the mountains. Alternatively, you can enjoy the landscape from one of the well-maintained cycle trails or book a scenic flight. 

As evening draws near, head down to the lake and step aboard "The Lady of the Lake," the historic steamboat TSS Earnslaw. Cruise over Lake Wakatipu to the rugged Walter Peak High Country Farm. Take in a few farm demonstrations—the sheepdogs are always entertaining—before settling down to a hearty meal of rotisserie-cooked meats and seasonal produce. Enjoy the views of the lake and its Alpine background from the comfort of a colonial-era homestead. After dinner, head back to the boat and join the ship's pianist and fellow travelers in a singalong as you steam back to town. 

Day 13: Depart Queenstown

It's the last day of your trip. If time allows, squeeze in a quick trip up the Skyline Gondola. This is one of the steepest cable car lifts in the Southern Hemisphere and offers panoramic views. Get a quick adrenaline hit by riding on the hilltop luge tracks before taking the gondola back down. Pick up your car in good time to charge it before returning it to the rental company at the airport and boarding your onward flight. Safe travels!

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