Epic New Zealand: The Ultimate 14-Day South & North Island Experience

Spend your first day soaking in Christchurch’s mix of history and regeneration. Walk along the Avon River and through the Botanic Gardens to enjoy the city’s green heart, then see the Cardboard Cathedral, a symbol of resilience after the earthquakes. Riverside Market is perfect for sampling local bites and artisan treats. For those with extra time, hop on the Christchurch Tram for a relaxing loop around the city’s landmarks while learning about its history.

Drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook Village, stopping at Lake Tekapo to see the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and turquoise waters. In Mount Cook National Park, hike the Hooker Valley Track for jaw-dropping glacier views without much elevation gain. Stay overnight in Tekapo or Mount Cook to enjoy the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. With almost no light pollution, stargazing here can feel like you’ve stepped into a planetarium.

Insider tip: Book a guided stargazing tour at Mt. John Observatory—the skies here are some of the clearest in the Southern Hemisphere.

Head south through Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. Along the way, stop for photos in Omarama and Cromwell before arriving in Queenstown, the adventure capital. In the evening, ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try the luge at the top for some lighthearted fun.

Kick off your Queenstown experience with a bungy jump at Kawarau Bridge or Nevis for thrill-seekers. Follow it up with a jet-boat ride through the Shotover River canyons. In the afternoon, take a wine-tasting tour in Gibbston Valley, famous for its Pinot Noir and beautiful vineyard scenery. Many wineries have outdoor seating with mountain views, making it a perfect place to unwind.

Insider tip: If you prefer a softer adventure, swap the bungy for zip-lining or paragliding—the views are just as incredible.

Spend the morning in Arrowtown, a charming former gold mining village just 20 minutes from Queenstown. Wander its quaint main street with heritage buildings, cafés, and boutique shops. For a light outdoor activity, take the Arrow River Trail, an easy riverside walk surrounded by willows and mountain views. In the afternoon, return to Queenstown and ride the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road for stunning lakeside scenery, with short stops at Bennett’s Bluff Lookout or Bob’s Cove Track for a brief walk. The slower pace today gives you a chance to breathe between adventures.

Insider tip: Bob’s Cove Track is a gentle 20-minute walk to a hidden bay with emerald waters—perfect for a peaceful picnic spot.

Depart early from Queenstown and drive approximately four hours to Milford Sound via the stunning route through Fiordland National Park. Along the way, stop at iconic spots like Mirror Lakes and Eglinton Valley for photos and short walks. Upon arrival, embark on a mid-morning or early afternoon cruise through Milford Sound to witness towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and native wildlife such as dolphins and seals. After the cruise, drive to nearby Te Anau. If time and energy allow, take the Key Summit Track hike—a rewarding three- to four-hour trail offering panoramic views of Fiordland’s mountains and valleys. Alternatively, you can save the hike for the next morning. Spend the night in Te Anau to rest before returning to Queenstown.

Insider tip: Pack snacks or a picnic lunch, as dining options in Milford Sound are limited. Book your cruise and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Te Anau. If you didn’t hike the Key Summit Track the previous day, this is a great time to do it. Afterward, begin the scenic drive back to Queenstown, with optional stops to soak in the dramatic Fiordland landscapes once more. Arrive in Queenstown by afternoon or early evening and spend the rest of the day at leisure—perhaps strolling lakeside, dining at a local restaurant, or preparing for the next adventure.

Insider tip: The drive back offers different light and perspectives, so take your time for photo stops.

Travel from Queenstown to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier via Haast Pass, a route dotted with waterfalls, rainforest, and turquoise pools. Stop at the Blue Pools and Thunder Creek Falls along the way for short, rewarding walks. This drive is an adventure in itself, passing through landscapes that change dramatically from alpine to coastal rainforest.

Insider tip: Fill up on fuel and snacks in Wanaka or Haast, as services become sparse along this stretch.

Experience one of New Zealand’s most unique adventures: a helicopter ride onto Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, followed by a guided walk on the ice. Marvel at blue crevasses, ice caves, and dramatic peaks. The thrill of landing on a glacier by helicopter is matched only by the surreal quiet once you start walking on it. Afterward, soak in nearby hot pools to relax your muscles.

Insider tip: Wear layers and sunglasses—the reflection off the ice can be intense.

From the West Coast, fly to Auckland (either from Hokitika/Greymouth via Christchurch or Wellington, or take the scenic TranzAlpine train to Christchurch first). Once in Auckland, head to the Viaduct Harbour for dinner and city views. The shift from rugged mountains to a bustling harbor city feels like stepping into a new country.

Insider tip: If time allows, visit the Sky Tower at sunset for panoramic cityscapes.

Spend the morning in the Hauraki Gulf on a whale- and dolphin-watching cruise, where sightings of orcas and Bryde’s whales are possible. The open-water views and playful dolphins often riding the bow waves are unforgettable. Return to the city for lunch and explore Auckland’s lively waterfront.

Drive to Waitomo to explore the magical glowworm caves via a guided boat ride or adventurous black-water rafting. The cave ceilings sparkle like a starry night, with thousands of tiny lights shimmering above you. For nature lovers, the surrounding countryside is full of rolling green hills and limestone formations.

Insider tip: Combine your visit with nearby nature walks like the Mangapohue Natural Bridge.

Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata for a whimsical stroll among Hobbit holes, gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn. Continue to Rotorua for a Maori cultural evening and hangi feast. The storytelling and performances bring Maori traditions to life in a way that’s both moving and memorable.

Insider tip: Book Hobbiton tickets in advance—peak slots sell out months ahead.

Begin your day at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland to witness the Lady Knox Geyser eruption at 10:15 am—a dramatic display where water shoots up to 20 meters high. Continue exploring the park’s surreal landscapes, including the vibrant Champagne Pool with its brilliant orange and green edges, and the neon-green Devil’s Bath. The smells, colors, and bubbling mud pools create an otherworldly atmosphere unlike anywhere else. In the afternoon, stroll through Rotorua’s Government Gardens or take a short walk in the Redwoods Forest. End the day with a soak in the Polynesian Spa before heading back to Auckland.