The Ultimate New Zealand Family Holiday Itinerary

Explore the vibrant “City of Sails”, starting with the immersive All Blacks Experience, where New Zealand’s rugby legacy and Māori culture come to life. Continue to the Sky Tower and take in panoramic views of Auckland’s sparkling harbours, creating the perfect introduction to your family holiday.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Private airport transfer
• All Blacks Experience admission
• Sky Tower viewing platform entry
• 2 nights in Auckland

Suggested Accommodation: 

Today, venture into the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, home to bottlenose dolphins, orca, blue penguins and more. Hop aboard a catamaran and cruise through one of the most diverse marine environments in the world.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Time to explore at your leisure
• Whale & Dolphin conservation cruise

Collect your rental vehicle this morning and travel north to the Bay of Islands, renowned for its secluded bays and pristine beaches. Explore the historic township of Russell or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Rental vehicle collection
• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in The Bay of Islands

Make it yours:
Add a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and discover the story behind New Zealand’s most important historic site.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Ready to make the journey yours? Enquire online or speak with a Travel Designer to personalise your perfect New Zealand escape.


Suggested Accommodation: 

Cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, travelling to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Enjoy spectacular island scenery, dolphin viewing opportunities, and an island stopover as you explore one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal regions.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Breakfast

• Dolphin viewing cruise experience

• Hole in the Rock & Cape Brett Lighthouse

• Otehei Bay stopover

Depart the Bay of Islands and journey south through Northland’s rolling countryside, native bush, and charming rural communities, as you return to Auckland for an evening at leisure.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Breakfast
• Explore at your leisure
• 1 night in Auckland

Make it yours:
Take a short detour through Matakana to wander through the creative sculpture gardens of Sculptureum and enjoy a relaxing lunch break along the way.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation: 

Travel through the Waikato region and arrive in the charming seaside village of Hahei, known for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to Cathedral Cove. Spend the afternoon exploring the coastline or relaxing beside the ocean.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Scenic Coromandel drive 
• Coastal village atmosphere 
• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in Hahei

Approximate Distance: 175 km | 109 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation: 

Experience the spectacular Cathedral Cove from the water as you cruise past volcanic islands, sea caves, and dramatic coastal formations while learning about the region’s geology and marine environment. 

Inclusions at a glance:

• Hot Water Beach
• Coastal walking tracks
• Cathedral Cove boat tour
• Time to explore at your leisure

Travel to Matamata for a guided tour of the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander through the Shire, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn, before you continue to Rotorua for an unforgettable Māori cultural experience featuring traditional hāngi dinner and storytelling.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Traditional hāngi dinner 
• Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour
• Māori cultural experience
• 3 nights in Rotorua

Approximate Distance: 235 kms | 146 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation:

Enjoy a day showcasing New Zealand’s rural heritage as you visit Agrodome for sheep shearing demonstrations, farm animal encounters, and a guided tractor tour before discovering kiwi conservation efforts at the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Agrodome Farm show and tour experience
• National Kiwi Hatchery tour
• Close-up kiwi viewing

Discover Rotorua’s remarkable geothermal landscapes at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Wander among colourful mineral terraces, bubbling mud pools, and the famous Champagne Pool. Witness the eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser before returning to Rotorua for leisure time.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Wai-O-Tapu geothermal entry
• Lady Knox geyser
• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours:
Upgrade your Rotorua visit with a scenic gondola ride, taking in panoramic views of the lakes, forests, and volcanic landscapes from above.

Travel south through volcanic landscapes and rolling countryside to Napier, New Zealand’s renowned Art Deco capital and gateway to Hawke’s Bay wine country.

Inclusions at a glance:

• National Aquarium of New Zealand entry
• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in Napier

Make it yours:
Upgrade your experience with a Penguin Encounter or the Scales & Tails fish-feeding experience, offering a rare chance to interact with wildlife up close and create unforgettable family memories.

Approximate Distance: 220 km | 136 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Suggested Accommodation: 

Enjoy a free day to explore Napier’s beautiful waterfront, iconic Art Deco architecture, boutique shopping, and nearby vineyards. Relax and discover the charm of this sunny coastal city at your own pace.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours:
Explore dramatic coastal landscapes and a thriving wildlife sanctuary home to over 20,000 gannets and rare native birds, in an exclusive Range Rover wilderness safari (subject to dates)

Journey south through Hawke’s Bay and the Wairarapa region, passing vineyards, river valleys, and rural landscapes before arriving in New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Upon arrival in Wellington, return your rental vehicle.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Rental vehicle return
• Explore at your leisure
• 3 nights in Wellington

Approximate Distance: 320 kms | 199 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Suggested Accommodation: 

Explore Wellington’s thriving arts scene, vibrant waterfront, and fascinating cultural attractions at your own pace. From world-class museums to scenic harbour walks and lively cafés, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours:
Spend time at Te Papa, where interactive exhibits bring New Zealand’s stories to life, or ride the Wellington Cable Car for harbour views and access to the Botanic Gardens.

Go behind the scenes of some of the world’s most famous films with a guided Wētā Workshop experience. Discover miniatures, costumes, and special effects created for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and more!

Inclusions at a glance:

• Wētā Workshop guided experience
• Guided return transfers
• Time to explore Wellington at your leisure

Today you will be transferred to the airport and fly to Blenheim! Upon arrival, collect your rental vehicle to explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre before travelling through Marlborough’s vineyards and coastal landscapes to Kaikōura, renowned for its marine wildlife and dramatic scenery.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Domestic flight to Blenheim
• Rental vehicle collection
• Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre admission
• 2 nights in Kaikōura

Approximate Distance: 130 kms | 81 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins

Suggested Accommodation: 

Experience one of New Zealand’s most memorable marine wildlife encounters. Venture into the open waters off Kaikōura to swim alongside wild dolphins in their natural environment, enjoying an unforgettable guided experience while learning about the region’s unique marine ecosystem.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Dolphin Encounter Swim
• TIme to explore Kaikōura at your leisure

Make it yours:
Upgrade your experience to something more active with an exhilarating zipline adventure & native forest trail activity, combining breathtaking views, thrilling rides, and insights into New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna.

Travel south through Canterbury’s picturesque landscapes, arriving in Christchurch, known for its beautiful gardens, innovative architecture, and vibrant arts scene.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure
• 3 nights in Christchurch
   

Approximate Distance: 135 kms | 84 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Suggested Accommodation: 

Visit the International Antarctic Centre to experience interactive exhibits, Antarctic simulations, and little blue penguins. Later, use your all-day tram pass to discover the city’s attractions at your own pace.

Inclusions at a glance:

• International Antarctic Centre admission
• Explore at your leisure
• Full-day heritage tram pass

Encounter native wildlife and heritage farm animals at one of New Zealand’s most loved wildlife reserves, then a self-guided exploration and kiwi viewing in the Willowbank nocturnal house.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Willowbank Wildlife Reserve admission
• Guaranteed kiwi viewing
• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours
Make the most of your final evening in Christchurch with a scenic Gondola ride, offering stunning 360° views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains ahead of your Mount Cook departure.

Travel alongside the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo before arriving in Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit a museum to explore mountaineering history, then experience an indoor planetarium show that brings the region’s alpine and night skies to life.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Church of the Good Shepherd & Lake Tekapo
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre admission
• Galactic Journey planetarium show
• 2 nights in Mount Cook
   

Approximate Distance: 330 kms | 205 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins 

Suggested Accommodation: 

Spend the day exploring the spectacular alpine environment of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Enjoy scenic walks, glacier views, wildlife spotting, or simply relax amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure
• Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Make it yours:
Get up close to New Zealand’s largest glacier on a Tasman Glacier Boat Trip, cruising among floating icebergs while learning about the glacier’s formation, movement, and dramatic alpine surroundings.

Travel through the Mackenzie Basin and over the Lindis Pass before arriving in Queenstown. Upon arrival, enjoy the immersive Time Tripper Underwater Experience beneath Lake Wakatipu.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Scenic Lindis Pass
• Time Tripper Underwater experience
• Diving duck, slinky eels and rainbow trout feeding opportunity
• 3 nights in Queenstown

Approximate Distance: 265 kms | 165 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation:

Venture deep into the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park on an exhilarating Dart River adventure. Travel through remote landscapes while learning about Māori history, local legends, and the region’s remarkable natural heritage.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Jet boat experience
• Guided commentary
• UNESCO World Heritage views

Cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm for an interactive farm experience featuring sheepdogs, farm animals, and delicious refreshments. Later, ride the Skyline Gondola and enjoy three thrilling luge rides overlooking Queenstown.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Afternoon tea
• Lake Wakatipu cruise
• Walter Peak Farm Tour
• Skyline Gondola & 3 luge rides

Make it yours:
Add an energy-boosting lunch to your Skyline experience for a seamless day out, ensuring the kids are fuelled up and ready to race down the mountain!

Journey through Central Otago’s dramatic landscapes, historic gold-mining towns, and fertile valleys before arriving in Dunedin, famous for its Scottish heritage and wildlife-rich coastline.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Scenic alpine drive
• Optional historic Arrowtown & Cromwell stopovers
• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in Dunedin

Approximate Distance: 285 kms | 177 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Suggested Accommodation:

Explore the Otago Peninsula on a guided conservation-focused wildlife tour. Encounter yellow-eyed penguins, little penguins, fur seals, sea lions, and native birdlife while learning about habitat restoration and conservation efforts.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Canopy to Coast Wildlife experience
• Time to explore at your leisure

Travel to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. Later, cruise across Lake Te Anau and explore spectacular limestone caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau
• Guided Glowworm Cave tour
• 2 nights in Te Anau

Approximate Distance: 290 km | 180 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation: 

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders on a full-day Milford Sound journey. Travel through Fiordland’s spectacular scenery before cruising beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls while keeping watch for seals, dolphins, and penguins.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Lunch
• Scenic Milford Sound cruise
• Fiordland National Park scenery
• Optional walks and photo opportunities

Travel through spectacular alpine scenery to the lakeside resort town of Wānaka. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the waterfront, local cafés, and scenic viewpoints.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in Wānaka
   

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 413 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Suggested Accommodation: 

Enjoy a day at leisure in Wānaka. Explore lakeside walking trails, venture into Mount Aspiring National Park, or simply relax and take in the stunning alpine scenery.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure
• Iconic Wānaka Willow tree
• Scenic lakeside views 

Make it yours:
Add a visit to Puzzling World, a fun and interactive attraction filled with illusion rooms, mind-bending puzzles, and a famous outdoor maze—perfect for all ages.

Travel along the rugged West Coast via the spectacular Haast Pass, passing ancient rainforests, rivers, and alpine landscapes before arriving in Franz Josef Glacier country.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Scenic Haast Pass
• Explore at your leisure
• 2 nights in Franz Josef

Approximate Distance: 285 kms | 177 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Suggested Accommodation: 

Join a guided walk around the famous Lake Matheson and learn about the region’s geology, glaciation, flora, and fauna. Weather permitting, admire stunning reflections of New Zealand’s highest peaks in the lake’s mirror-like waters.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Lake Matheson guided walk
• Crystal-clear reflections of Aoraki / Mount Cook
• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours:
Continue your wildlife discovery and add a behind-the-scenes encounter featuring New Zealand’s iconic kiwi and ancient tuatara. Enjoy exclusive access, expert insights, and a rare opportunity to get up close to these remarkable native species.

Head to Greymouth and return your rental vehicle before boarding the world-renowned TranzAlpine train. Cross the Southern Alps through spectacular gorges, river valleys, and mountain scenery before arriving in Christchurch.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Rental vehicle return
• TranzAlpine rail journey
• 1 night in Christchurch

Approximate Distance: 175 kms | 108 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Suggested Accommodation:

Enjoy your final day discovering Christchurch’s gardens, riverside precincts, heritage buildings, and vibrant city centre at a relaxed pace.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Explore at your leisure

Make it yours:
Elevate your city sightseeing with a memorable family punting experience, gliding along tranquil waterways while enjoying a different perspective of the heritage scenery.

Today your New Zealand family adventure comes to an end as you are transferred to Christchurch Airport. Reflect on an incredible journey through Aotearoa and take with you unforgettable memories of world-class landscapes, rich Māori culture, and native wildlife encounters.

Inclusions at a glance:

• Private airport transfer

Inspired by what you’ve seen? Let’s create a journey to Aotearoa, New Zealand that’s uniquely yours.

Speak with a Travel Designer to start planning your personalised escape.