New Zealand Express: 7-Day Travel Adventure

Advisor - Rebecca Dangler
Curated By

Rebecca Dangler

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  • New Zealand

  • Active Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Outdoors

  • Local Food

light through jungle and sand path
Curator’s statement

Rainforests, glaciers, cityscapes and fiordlands – you’ll experience it all in this fast-paced adventure. Carefully created for travelers with one week to explore Aotearoa New Zealand, this 7-day express itinerary offers a whirlwind tour of New Zealand's highlights, from Auckland's urban charms to Queenstown's breathtaking landscapes. Chances are, you’ll soon be coming back for more!

The Fora Difference

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Insider knowledge

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Where to stay

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Park Hyatt Auckland

Luxury waterfront hotel in Auckland complete with a a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool and fitness center.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

Sleek, cosmopolitan hotel with French heritage offering special spa and romance packages.

Fora Perks
  • Welcome amenity.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fable Auckland

A modern luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Auckland, offering stylish accommodations and exceptional city views.

Fora Perks
  • VIP welcome & amenity

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

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Advisor - Rebecca Dangler

Unlock perks by contacting Rebecca to book your trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

green hills into metropolitan city

After arriving in Auckland, settle into your accommodation and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. Spend some time enjoying Viaduct Harbour before heading to Ponsonby Road for afternoon cafe and art gallery-hopping. For dinner, head to Amano, a modern Italian restaurant in the heart of the city that offers a sensational menu inspired by New Zealand's finest produce.

Day 2: Waiheke Island wine tour

rows of grape vines

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island, where an array of wineries and breathtaking landscapes await. Join a guided wine tour or explore the island on a self-guided bike tour. Explore Waiheke Island's wine culture with visits to renowned wineries like Mudbrick Vineyard, Cable Bay Vineyards and Te Motu, and indulge in a gourmet lunch at the picturesque Oyster Inn. For dinner back in Auckland, Cassia offers contemporary Indian dining that's a true culinary delight.

Day 3: Piha Beach and rainforest tour

beach on stormy day

Just outside Auckland, otherworldly landscapes await. Explore the rugged beauty of Piha Beach and immerse yourself in the lush Waitakere Ranges rainforest. For lunch, enjoy a picnic with locally sourced ingredients. As the day winds down, dine at Soul Bar & Bistro, known for its waterfront views and exceptional seafood.

Day 4: Full day trip to Hobbiton and Waitomo

House with green door surrounded by grass and flowers during daytime

Embark on a magical journey to Hobbiton, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the famous movie set. Continue to Waitomo to marvel at the famous glowworm caves, a sparkling natural phenomenon. For dinner, Auckland’s Gemmayze Street offers a cozy atmosphere and deliciously flavorful Lebanese dishes.

Day 5: Journey to Queenstown

city on a river and mountains

Fly to Queenstown and take in the breathtaking vistas of The Remarkables mountain range. Spend the afternoon exploring the alpine-style village with serene views of Lake Wakatipu. For dinner, Rata offers a fine dining experience, serving contemporary New Zealand cuisine in an elegant setting. For something more casual, head to Fergburger and join the queue of hungry meat-lovers.

End the day with a scenic soak at Onsen Hot Pools, where you can unwind in private cedar-lined pools while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Shotover River.

Day 6: Milford sound guided tour

pristine mirrored lake with mountains shrouded by clouds

Experience the wonders of Milford Sound on a tour that combines overland travel, a serene cruise and an unforgettable return flight. Upon reaching Milford Sound by comfortable coach bus, step aboard a cruise vessel to explore the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and serene rainforest of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After the cruise, board a fixed-wing plane for a scenic flight that offers bird's-eye views of the magnificent landscapes below. Back in Queenstown, Botswana Butchery offers a warm ambiance and delectable cuts of meat. Here you can try premium New Zealand lamb, venison, beef and fresh local seafood.

Day 7: Central Otago wine tour and departure

green landscape with pond

Explore Central Otago's wineries, savoring exquisite wines and breathtaking views. For an unforgettable dining experience, Amisfield Winery offers a gourmet menu overlooking the vineyards. End your journey with a farewell dinner at Skyline Queenstown, where you can dine with panoramic views of the city and lake. The luge back to street-level is optional, but absolutely encouraged.

Need to Know

When it comes to New Zealand travel, there is no one-size-fits-all itinerary. In fact, I have never duplicated an itinerary! As a South Island resident and New Zealand travel specialist, I have plenty of insider intel to share. (Think: secret beaches, local restaurants, and under-the-radar sightseeing).

If you are ready to connect, please submit a travel inquiry here.

Looking for more travel inspo? Check out my guide, A First Timer’s Guide to Sydney, Australia.

Advisor - Rebecca Dangler

Travel Advisor

Rebecca Dangler

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Zealand.