The Ultimate 10-Day New Zealand Itinerary: Highlights, Hotels, and Hidden Gems

If you're dreaming of a New Zealand adventure packed with stunning landscapes, bucket-list activities, and charming towns, this 10-day itinerary is for you! I created a super detailed itinerary complete with things to do at each stop, my hotel recommendations, and even my map of saved locations to make your trip planning effortless.

This itinerary covers the best of both islands while giving you time to slow down and enjoy each destination. Plus, my detailed guide includes exact stops, things to do, hotel recommendations, and my map of saved locations so you won’t miss a thing!

Let me know if you have questions about planning your own New Zealand road trip!

New Zealand Itinerary Highlights:

• 🧝🏻‍♀️ Hobbiton Movie Set – A must for Lord of the Rings fans.

• 🏔️ Fiordland National Park – Stunning fjords and remote landscapes.

• 🏞️ Mt. Cook National Park – Breathtaking alpine views.

• 🌃 Queenstown – The adventure capital packed with activities.

• ⛴️ Overnight Cruise in Doubtful Sound – Peaceful and unforgettable.

• 🚵🏻‍♂️ Wanaka – Gorgeous hikes and unique spots like Cinema Paradiso.

• 🥐 FergBAKER – Iconic pies and pastries.

• ⛰️ Isthmus Peak Hike – Epic views worth the climb.

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

• Morning: Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Start your trip with a leisurely breakfast in Ponsonby, a trendy neighborhood full of cafes and boutiques.

• Afternoon: Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor. Then, explore Wynyard Quarter and the Viaduct Harbour for a scenic stroll.

• Evening: Have dinner at Depot Eatery, a local favorite for fresh seafood and casual vibes. Stay overnight in central Auckland for easy access to attractions.

  
  

Day 2: Rotorua

• Morning: Drive to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture. Stop at Huka Falls along the way for breathtaking views.

• Afternoon: Explore Te Puia to witness bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and learn about Maori traditions.

• Evening: Treat yourself to a traditional Maori hangi dinner and cultural performance. Spend the night at a lakeside lodge for a peaceful retreat.

Day 3: Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves

• Morning: Visit Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata and step into the magical world of Middle-earth. Don’t forget to grab a drink at The Green Dragon Inn.

• Afternoon: Head to Waitomo Caves for a glowworm boat tour through the illuminated limestone caverns.

• Evening: Stay overnight near Waitomo or continue to Taupo for more adventure.

Day 4: Taupo & Tongariro National Park

• Morning: Explore Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, and walk around the lakeside area.

• Afternoon: Drive to Tongariro National Park for hikes and views of volcanic landscapes. Opt for short hikes like Taranaki Falls or Tama Lakes if you’re short on time.

• Evening: Stay overnight at a lodge in the National Park Village.

  
  

Day 5: Wellington

• Morning: Head to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. Take a cable car ride for panoramic views and visit the Botanic Garden.

• Afternoon: Wander around Cuba Street, known for its artsy vibe, vintage shops, and cafes.

• Evening: Enjoy dinner by the waterfront and spend the night in a stylish boutique hotel.

Day 6: Nelson & Abel Tasman National Park

• Morning: Take the ferry to the South Island and drive to Nelson, a hub for arts, wineries, and beaches.

• Afternoon: Relax in the city or drive to Abel Tasman National Park for hiking, kayaking, and exploring golden beaches.

• Evening: Stay overnight near the park entrance to maximize exploration time.

Day 7: Franz Josef Glacier

• Morning: Drive along the stunning West Coast to Franz Josef. Make stops at Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks) for dramatic rock formations.

• Afternoon: Take a guided glacier hike or splurge on a scenic helicopter ride for epic views.

• Evening: Relax in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools and stay overnight nearby.

Day 8: Queenstown

• Morning: Head to Queenstown, my absolute favorite city in New Zealand!

• Afternoon: Try adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, or skydiving. Or, take a gondola ride for sweeping lake views.

• Evening: Grab dinner at FergBAKER, famous for its pies and pastries. Spend the night at a hotel near Lake Wakatipu.

Day 9: Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

• Morning: Drive to Te Anau and join an overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound—one of the most magical experiences of the trip.

• Afternoon: Relax and soak in the remote beauty of the fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife.

• Evening: Enjoy dinner onboard and spend the night surrounded by nature.

Day 10: Wanaka & Mt. Cook National Park

• Morning: Head to Wanaka, a charming lakeside town. Hike Isthmus Peak for panoramic views or check out Cinema Paradiso—a quirky movie theater with couches and freshly baked cookies.

• Afternoon: Drive to Mt. Cook National Park for jaw-dropping alpine scenery and short hikes like Hooker Valley Track.

• Evening: Stay overnight in the park or nearby Twizel for your final night.