10 Days in New Zealand: Top 4 Recommendations
New Zealand is a compact country comprising two main islands. But within these two islands you will find incredibly diverse landscapes. The ideal length of your New Zealand trip should be at least 10 days. In this duration, you can explore the country’s pristine beaches, lush rainforests, towering mountains, serene lakes and vibrant cities. Since many of the popular destinations are relatively close to one another, you will be able to cover ground fairly quickly. With itineraries ranging from nine to 11 days, you will get to experience the country’s rich history and culture, indulge in New Zealand’s food scene and partake in a range of adventure sports, while also having time to relax. Here are our recommended itineraries that you should consider for your New Zealand tour.
- Jonalyn
- From USA
1. Picturesque Solo New Zealand Tour: 9 Days in New Zealand
| Day 1 | Arrive in Auckland to start your New Zealand adventure |
| Day 2 | Go sightseeing in Auckland on a half-day city tour |
| Day 3 | Visit the Waitomo Caves and the Glowworm Grotto, and Rotorua |
| Day 4 | Fly to Christchurch and enjoy a relaxing evening wandering the city |
| Day 5 | Hop on your coach for a half-day tour of Christchurch |
| Day 6 | Travel to Queenstown, stopping along the way for a tour of Mount Cook |
| Day 7 | Enjoy a free day in Queenstown |
| Day 8 | Choose to see the Milford Sound, stroll through scenic vineyards, or join Lake Wakatipu Scenic Catamaran Cruise |
| Day 9 | Say goodbye to New Zealand and prepare for your flight home |
With this 9-day New Zealand itinerary, you will truly get to know the country and all its delights. Explore the vibrant city on your Auckland tour, take in the peaceful nature of the Milford Sounds, see the fascinating Rotorua and get your adrenaline pumping in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. See all the 9-day tours in New Zealand.
2. Southern Spotlight: 9 Days in New Zealand
| Day 1 | Arrive in Christchurch |
| Day 2 | See the sights in Christchurch on a half-day tour before traveling to Omarama |
| Day 3 | Spend the morning exploring Omarama before heading to the vibrant and cultural city of Dunedin |
| Day 4 | Explore the fascinating Scottish heritage in New Zealand’s Dunedin before soaking up the views on your way to Te Anau |
| Day 5 | Enjoy your morning in Fiordland National Park before driving to Queensland |
| Day 6 | Get the most out of a free day in Queenstown |
| Day 7 | Enjoy lake views on your drive from Queenstown to Glacier Country, before you arrive to Franz Josef Glacier |
| Day 8 | Spend the morning exploring the glacier and small town charm of Franz Josef before heading back to city life in Christchurch for your last night in New Zealand |
| Day 9 | Departure day |
Each destination on this nine-day Southern New Zealand tour offers an in-depth exploration of the South Island’s highlights, with city sightseeing, cultural tours, and visits to magnificent glaciers and fjords. Starting in the Garden City, you will have a chance to explore the captivating Christchurch before making your way out of the city and into the tranquil nature. Omarama, Te Anau and Franz Josef Glacier are simply stunning. Known for its adventure activities, Queenstown gives you the opportunity to check off bucket list items such as bungee jumping. Describe your ideal 9-day holiday for a customized trip to New Zealand.
3. Northern Trail: 10 Days in New Zealand
| Day 1 | Welcome to your first day in Auckland. Settle in and get ready to explore New Zealand |
| Day 2 | Head to Coromandel and get ready to enjoy sandy beaches and crystal clear waters |
| Day 3 | Explore the laid-back surf town of Raglan |
| Day 4 | Depart for Rotorua, with stops at Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set along the way |
| Day 5 | Spend the day ziplining through the forest before experiencing a unique cultural experience in Maori village |
| Day 6 | Tour Rotorua before heading to the lakeside town of Taupo |
| Day 7 | Take on one of the many adventure sports in Taupo |
| Day 8 | Head to the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington |
| Day 9 | Spend the day in Wellington exploring the sights |
| Day 10 | Say goodbye to New Zealand |
In the span of 10 days, this journey through New Zealand offers a whirlwind of diverse experiences and gorgeous landscapes. From the busy streets of Auckland to the tranquil beaches along the Coromandel Peninsula, the laid-back surf culture of Raglan and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, each destination will leave an incredible mark on your heart. Learn more about Maori culture, enjoy the vistas over Lake Taupo and explore New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. See all 10-day tours in New Zealand.
4. New Zealand Honeymoon: 11 Days in New Zealand
| Day 1 | Start your journey by flying to Kerikeri to experience luxury glamping |
| Day 2 | Enjoy the glistening waters of the Bay of Islands on a catamaran cruise |
| Day 3 | Enjoy a free day exploring the Takou River |
| Day 4 | Time to switch from luxury glamping to a boutique hotel in Christchurch |
| Day 5 | Head to Hokitika where you will be glamping once again in the serene ancient forest |
| Day 6 | Explore the Arahua with a private guide Bevan Climo, the son of a paramount chief of the Hokitika region |
| Day 7 | Enjoy an unplanned day in the Hotikaka region today |
| Day 8 | Tour Queenstown and unwind in your five-star boutique hotel |
| Day 9 | Embark on a helicopter ride over Fiordland National Park, landing at Milford Sound and taking a cruise around the serene valley |
| Day 10 | Get to know Queenstown with a free day in the city |
| Day 11 | It is time to head home after a memorable New Zealand trip |
Spend 11 days exploring the highlights of New Zealand on your honeymoon. This self-guided tour is the perfect romantic getaway with your partner, with a mixture of bustling city life, serene nature escapes, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. With a mixture of glamping and boutique hotels, you and your partner will live the best of both worlds during this 11-day New Zealand trip. Describe your ideal 11-day holiday for a customized trip to New Zealand.
Need help planning a 10-day trip to New Zealand?
New Zealand is a remarkable country with incredible experiences to be had. Ten days is enough time to get a true feel for the country. Traveling with a local expert, you will get a unique and enriching experience. Book one of our New Zealand tours to get a deeper and meaningful experience. You can also get in touch with our local travel specialists to create a customized trip to New Zealand.
If you are still wondering how many days to allocate for your trip, check out our article on how many days to spend in New Zealand.
