A country far out in the South Pacific Ocean and comprising of two different islands – North and South Island, unique and dramatic in their own ways – New Zealand is the true gem in that part of the world. I first came to the realization that 2 weeks are not enough to explore this incredible country when planning our honeymoon in Great Oceania. However, we tried to see as much as we could in this limited time. While there are many modes of transport to explore New Zealand, this phenomenal country is a true “road trip” destination. While we opted for private tours, self-driving is a great option for families.

Itinerary

Day 1: Start with the North Island. 

Day 2: Explore Waiheke Island. 

Day 3: Head to Coromandel Peninsula today (2.5 hour ride from Auckland). 

Day 4: Head South to Matama today! Apart from stunning countryside landscape in Matama lies, wait for it – Hobbiton! Spend the afternoon in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Head to Rotorua and stay overnight in Rotorua! You can also return back to Auckland on this day. 

Day 5: Explore Rotorua today! 

Day 6: Since, we were short on time; we tracked back to Auckland and flew to Christchurch directly to reach South Island.

Day 7: Explore Christchurch.

Day 8: Make your way to Lake Tekapo (today is a long 4.5 hour drive).

Day 9: Drive to Queenstown.

Day 10: Bungy jump from 134 m with Nevis Bungy Jump – The highest one in Queenstown! This is an amazing experience! Later in the day you can go for a river-rafting trip.

Day 11: Private fishing trip and catch your rainbow trouts! A nearby restaurant will cook it perfectly for you so you can enjoy Your Own CATCH OF THE DAY! Enjoy the afternoon on a Wine tour out in the Otago Region.

Day 12: Start the day with a Helicopter Ride to The Remarkables. Here you will actually be able to make a helicopter landing on a mountaintop! Take the Queenstown Gondola and dine at the Skyline Restaurant with the most stunning views.

Day 13: Drive to the Fjordland National Park.

Day 14: Fly out of Queenstown.

Stay

In Auckland, stay at the Hilton Auckland – This is a nautical style hotel right on the waterfront. The view is beautiful and the hotel is very well located for strolls. In Queenstown, the Azur Lodge is a beautiful boutique hotel on a hilltop. For a more value-for-money option, stay at the Queenstown Hilton Resort and Spa. In Christchurch, the Bond Estate Luxury Accommodation is stunning but for a more affordable option go to Chateau on the Park. A lot of the attractions are walk-able from here. If you are planning to dine at the Tramway Restaurant and only staying in Christchurch for a night or two then consider the Rendezvous Hotel.

Eat

In Auckland, eat at Clooney Restaurant or The Sugar Club Auckland. These are special occasion restaurants. Auckland has a great selection of Asian restaurants too for a more casual fare. The Harbourside Grill is a good spot for seafood lovers. In Queenstown, head over to Rata for a special meal. Don’t miss out on Fergburger to taste their iconic burger. Eat at the Stratosphere Restaurant and Bar at Skyline Queenstown. In Rotorua, indulge in Maori hangi feasts. In Christchurch, do have a little celebratory dinner at the Tramway Restaurant.

Tip

For a more detailed plan, do check out my “The Perfect Two-Week Honeymoon in New Zealand” Blog post.