Queenstown, New Zealand 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel from Auckland to Queenstown

Catch a domestic flight from Auckland to Queenstown, enjoying scenic views as you fly south to the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and get acquainted with Queenstown.

Choose accommodation close to the town center for easy access to activities and dining.

Skyline Queenstown Gondola & Luge

Take the iconic Gondola up Bob's Peak for spectacular panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.

Option to ride the Luge tracks.

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Offers great photo opportunities.

Dinner by Lake Wakatipu

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Queenstown's many excellent restaurants with views of Lake Wakatipu.

Many restaurants offer stunning lake views and diverse cuisine. Consider making a reservation.

Queenstown Hill Walk

Embark on a scenic hike up Queenstown Hill Time Walk, offering rewarding 360-degree views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The trail is well-marked and provides interpretive signs.

Lunch in Town

Grab a casual lunch at a local cafe in Queenstown after your morning hike.

Numerous options from quick bites to sit-down meals.

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, a tranquil oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can also try disc golf or simply enjoy the lake views.

Enjoy the botanical beauty and serene atmosphere. Easy walk from the town center.

Relax & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Queenstown has a vibrant culinary scene, from fine dining to casual eateries.

Half Day in Middle Earth - Lord of the Rings Tour

Join an 'Epic Adventures to the Real Middle Earth and Back Again!

' tour. Explore original film locations with knowledgeable guides who are 'Lord of the Rings Nerds.'

A must-do for fans of the films, offering stunning scenery and behind-the-scenes insights.

Lunch Post-Tour

Enjoy a casual lunch after your Middle Earth adventure.

Numerous cafes and eateries available.

Guided eBike Tour 'Ride to the Sky'

Embark on 'Ride to the Sky', a flagship tour through exclusive locations on specially built eBike tracks.

Ride a premium full-suspension e-bike to the top of Grant Peak, 800 meters above sea level.

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling trails with pedal assistance, suitable for various fitness levels. Book in advance.

Dinner in Queenstown

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner after an active day.

Explore different dining options in the city center.

The Wine Trail Tour

Discover the Central Otago Wine Trail on a small group half-day tour from Queenstown.

Enjoy a personalized experience, tasting some of the finest wines the region has to offer.

Taste world-class Pinot Noir and other varietals in stunning vineyard settings. Includes tastings and transport.

Photography Tour to Glenorchy (Alternative)

A half-day photography tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy.

Learn lifelong skills on maximizing your camera use while enjoying an outdoor adventure to one of New Zealand's most picturesque locations.

Ideal for photography enthusiasts, exploring 'The Gateway to Paradise' and its stunning landscapes.

Dinner & Free Evening

Enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.

You might explore some of Queenstown's boutique shops or enjoy a drink at a local pub.

Many options for evening entertainment.

Helicopter Tour with Alpine Snow Landing

Experience an unforgettable helicopter flight through alpine scenery, landing on a carpet of snow high in the Southern Alps.

Enjoy breathtaking views and unique photo opportunities.

A spectacular way to see the mountains up close. Dress warmly, even in March. Highly recommended for a unique perspective.

Mountain Express – Ride Along Buggy Tour (Alternative)

Join a mind-blowing 1-hour adventure in a 6-seater 1000cc buggy.

Expert guides take the wheel while you relax and soak in spectacular views of an exclusive 650-acre property.

An exhilarating off-road experience for those seeking adventure without driving. Great for stunning photo stops.

Free Afternoon & Last Queenstown Souvenirs

Enjoy a free afternoon to revisit a favorite spot, explore more of Queenstown's shops, or simply relax.

Perfect time to pick up any last-minute souvenirs.

Consider walking around town or along the lakefront.

Farewell Dinner in Queenstown

Indulge in a special dinner to cap off your adventurous time in Queenstown, perhaps trying a restaurant you haven't visited yet.

Many high-quality restaurants are available, from local New Zealand cuisine to international flavors.

Scenic Drive to Franz Josef

Embark on a breathtaking road trip from Queenstown to the West Coast, passing through picturesque towns like Wanaka and the dramatic Haast Pass.

Stop for photos at stunning viewpoints like Lake Hawea and Fantail Falls.

Lunch & Check-in

Arrive in Franz Josef, check into your accommodation, and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local cafe.

Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Take an easy walk through the beautiful native forest of the Franz Josef Glacier valley to a viewpoint of the glacier terminal face.

Note that the glacier has receded considerably, so you'll observe it from a distance.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The trail is well-maintained.

Dinner in Franz Josef

Enjoy dinner at one of Franz Josef's local restaurants, offering a range of cuisines.

Franz Josef Glacier Experience

Opt for a thrilling heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier or a scenic helicopter flight with a snow landing for unparalleled views of the icefall and surrounding Southern Alps. This is an unforgettable experience.

Highly weather-dependent, it's advisable to book for your first full day in case of cancellations. Book through local providers in Franz Josef.

Lake Matheson Walk

Visit Lake Matheson, famous for its perfect reflective views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on a clear day.

Enjoy a gentle walk around the lake.

Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for calm water and ideal reflections. About a 20-minute drive south from Franz Josef.

Dinner in Franz Josef

Savour another evening meal in Franz Josef, perhaps trying a different local eatery.

Drive to Greymouth

Enjoy a scenic morning drive north along the West Coast from Franz Josef to Greymouth, the starting point for your TranzAlpine train journey.

TranzAlpine Check-in & Departure

Arrive at Greymouth station, check in for the TranzAlpine train.

This iconic train journey is renowned as one of the world's great scenic railway experiences, crossing the Southern Alps.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train

Embark on the TranzAlpine journey from Greymouth to Christchurch.

Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, from the lush rainforests of the West Coast to the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps, crossing via Arthur's Pass.

Enjoy commentary, a licensed cafe, and an open-air viewing carriage for photography. Book well in advance.

Christchurch Arrival & Dinner

Arrive at Christchurch station.

Transfer to your accommodation, check in, and head out for dinner in the city center.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore the expansive and beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, conservatories, and serene walking paths.

Entry is free. Consider a guided tour or a ride on the 'Caterpillar' shuttle (additional cost).

Canterbury Museum Visit

Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural history of Canterbury and New Zealand at the Canterbury Museum, located right next to the Botanic Gardens.

Entry is free, but donations are welcome. Check for special exhibitions.

Lunch in the City Centre

Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or eateries in Christchurch's vibrant city centre.

Punting on the Avon River

Experience Christchurch from a unique perspective with a relaxing punt ride along the Avon River.

Your punter will guide you past the sights of the city's 'Garden City' centre.

Explore Riverside Market

Wander through the lively Riverside Market, a fantastic indoor market offering a variety of food stalls, artisan goods, and fresh produce. It's a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere.

Perfect for grabbing a snack or finding unique souvenirs.

Dinner in Christchurch

Dine at one of Christchurch's acclaimed restaurants, sampling local produce and wines.

Lyttelton Harbour Exploration

Take a short drive over the Port Hills to Lyttelton, a charming port town with a fascinating history, quirky shops, and cafes.

Enjoy views of the volcanic harbour.

Consider a ferry ride to Quail Island for more exploration (additional cost). Easily accessible by bus or car from Christchurch.

Lunch in Lyttelton

Enjoy lunch at one of Lyttelton's unique cafes or restaurants, many offering harbor views.

Sumner Beach Stroll

Head to Sumner Beach, a popular coastal suburb.

Enjoy a walk along the sandy beach, take in the views, or relax by the sea.

Souvenir Shopping/Departure Prep

Spend some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Christchurch or prepare for your upcoming flight to the North Island.

Farewell Dinner in Christchurch

Enjoy a final dinner in Christchurch before heading to the North Island for the last leg of your trip.

Flight to Rotorua

Catch a domestic flight from Christchurch to Rotorua, offering scenic views as you transition to the North Island.

Allow time for airport transfers and check-in.

Te Puia Geothermal Park

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's geothermal activity, including Pōhutu Geyser, mud pools, and silica terraces.

Explore the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.

Wear comfortable shoes. Guided tours are available and highly recommended for deeper insight into Maori culture and geothermal science.

Tamaki Maori Village Experience

Experience an authentic Māori cultural evening with a traditional welcoming ceremony (pōwhiri), cultural performances, and a delicious Hāngī dinner cooked in an earth oven.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off is often included. This is a highly immersive and popular experience, so book well in advance.

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through towering Californian Coast Redwoods.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and lush forest canopy.

Consider the Redwoods Treewalk for a unique elevated experience (additional cost). Free entry to the forest itself.

Travel to Auckland

Embark on a scenic drive or comfortable bus journey north from Rotorua to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city.

Wynyard Quarter Exploration & Dinner

After checking into your Auckland accommodation, enjoy an evening stroll along the revitalized Wynyard Quarter waterfront, featuring bustling restaurants and bars.

Plenty of dining options from casual to fine dining. Enjoy the views of the Viaduct Harbour.

Sky Tower Views

Ascend Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, Hauraki Gulf, and surrounding volcanic peaks.

Book tickets online to save time. Options for dining at the top (Orbit 360-degree revolving restaurant) or even SkyJump/SkyWalk for thrill-seekers.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Explore New Zealand's premier art institution, housing an extensive collection of national and international art, including significant Maori and Pacific art.

Free general admission, charges may apply for special exhibitions. Enjoy the stunning architecture and peaceful setting.

Albert Park & Queen Street Stroll

Wander through the historic Albert Park, a beautiful Victorian park, before heading to Queen Street for some window shopping or souvenir hunting.

Albert Park is home to historic statues, a grand fountain, and beautiful flowerbeds. Queen Street is Auckland's main retail thoroughfare.

Dinner in Britomart

Enjoy dinner in Britomart, a stylish precinct known for its heritage buildings, boutique shops, and diverse culinary scene, from casual to upscale.

From award-winning restaurants to cozy cafes, Britomart offers something for every taste.

Morning Stroll in Auckland Domain

Enjoy a relaxed morning walk through the Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park.

Visit the Wintergardens or enjoy views of the city.

A perfect spot for a leisurely morning, especially on a Sunday. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is also located within the Domain.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab some last-minute New Zealand souvenirs from local shops around the city centre or nearby Parnell Village.

Look for local crafts, merino wool products, or Manuka honey.

Departure from Auckland Airport

Transfer to Auckland International Airport for your departure, concluding your incredible 14-day New Zealand journey.