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1. Iconic North: 7 days in New Zealand

Residential area in Auckland on a sunny day.
You can enjoy the wonderful skyline and gorgeous beaches in Auckland.
Day 1 Start your journey in Auckland with a leisurely tour of the city
Day 2 Spend a full day touring Auckland
Day 3 Head to the coastal city of Tauranga and join a country-style lunch at Waikato farm
Day 4 Leave for Rotorua to learn about Maori culture at Te P T Mori village
Day 5

Spend a full day in Rotorua, visiting sites such as Waitomo Caves; alternatively, you can also tour the Hobbiton village

Day 6  Take a scenic trip from Rotorua to Wellington, past Huka Falls, Lake Taupo, snow-clad mountains and alpine deserts
Day 7 Enjoy the last day of your New Zealand trip in Wellington

Spend 7 days in New Zealand and journey through the beautiful landscapes of the North Island. Journey through New Zealand's North Island, starting in vibrant Auckland with its iconic Sky Tower and bustling waterfront. Discover the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, including the bubbling mud pools and geysers at Te Puia. Immerse yourself in Maori culture at Te Pā Tū Māori village, experiencing traditional performances and feasts. Marvel at the glowworm-illuminated Waitomo Caves or step into Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set. Traverse diverse landscapes from Lake Taupo to the alpine deserts of Tongariro National Park. Conclude your adventure in Wellington exploring its charming waterfront, riding the iconic cable car, and visiting the acclaimed Te Papa museum.

 

2. QUEENSTOWN SOUTHERN LOOP: 7-DAY NEW ZEALAND TRIP ITINERARY

A bird's eye view of Queenstown, a stunning resort town in the south-west of New Zealand.
Due to its stunning scenery and cool ambiance, Queenstown is rapidly growing into one of the most popular cities in New Zealand.
Day 1 Start your trip in Queenstown
Day 2 Head to the lakeside town of Te Anu, the gateway to Fiordland National Park; explore the lakes and the spectacular surrounding nature
Day 3

Set off for a memorable cruise tour on Milford Sound; later in the day, enjoy the Mirror Lakes hike before returning to Te Anu

Day 4 Make your way to the Catlis; visit Nugget Point and its lighthouse, and hike to McLean Falls
Day 5

Head to Stewart Island, the country’s third-largest landmass and home to the endangered brown kiwi and the flightless Stewart Island kiwi

Day 6  Enjoy a full day exploring Stewart Island; learn about the local flora and fauna, and relax on the beach for a picnic lunch
Day 7 Head back to Queenstown where your trip comes to an end

Embark on an amazing 7-day adventure through some of New Zealand's most stunning southern landscapes. Journey to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park, before embarking on an awe-inspiring cruise through Milford Sound, where waterfalls cascade down towering cliffs. Explore the rugged Catlins coast, home to hidden waterfalls and diverse wildlife. Visit the historic Nugget Point Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views. Venture to Stewart Island, a paradise for nature lovers, where you can spot rare birds like the flightless kiwi and enjoy pristine beaches. Hike through lush rainforests and relax on golden sands before returning to the adventure capital, Queenstown.

3. ALPINE ADVENTURE: 7 DAYS IN NEW ZEALAND

Avon River in Christchurch during broad daylight.
Go boating in the serene Avon River when in Christchurch.
An up close image of Haast Pass, one of the famous New Zealand landmarks.
Drive through Haast Pass, a scenic gateway through New Zealand’s Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views and rugged wilderness.
Day 1 Arrive in Christchurch, punting on the Avon River, visit the innovative Cardboard Cathedral
Day 2 Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Antarctic Centre visit, evening dinner in restored New Regent Street
Day 3 Take a scenic TranzAlpine train journey to Greymouth, drive through Arthur's Pass to Franz Josef Glacier
Day 4 Join a guided glacier hike or scenic helicopter flight with snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier
Day 5

Drive to Wanaka via Haast Pass, stopping at Thunder Creek Falls and Blue Pools walk

Day 6  Spend a day in Mount Aspiring National Park
Day 7 Return to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo

Visiting New Zealand during winter? Then, this 7-day itinerary needs to be your pick! Embark on an exhilarating journey through New Zealand's Southern Alps. Begin in Christchurch, exploring its rejuvenated city center and botanical gardens. Board the TranzAlpine train for a spectacular ride across the Canterbury Plains and through Arthur's Pass. Witness the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier up close, then drive through the stunning Haast Pass to lakeside Wanaka. Hike in Mount Aspiring National Park, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. On your return to Christchurch, stop at the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd for iconic photo opportunities.

4. COASTAL EXPLORER: 7 DAYS IN NEW ZEALAND

Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
Relax in the white sandy beach, Bay of Plenty, and marvel at Mount Maunganui.
Day 1 Arrive in Auckland and visit Auckland Domain and Winter Gardens
Day 2 Ferry to Waiheke Island for a wine-tasting tour, then enjoy beach time at Oneroa or Palm Beach
Day 3 Explore Bay of Plenty, visit a kiwifruit orchard, and relax on Mount Maunganui beach in Tauranga
Day 4 Drive to Coromandel Peninsula, then kayak to Cathedral Cove
Day 5

Journey to Napier

Day 6  Drive to Wellington, visit Te Papa Museum, ride the iconic cable car to Botanic Gardens
Day 7 Bid farewell to New Zealand in Wellington

Discover New Zealand's stunning coastline on this North Island adventure. Start in Auckland, including a day trip to Waiheke Island's vineyards. Explore the Coromandel Peninsula's pristine beaches and famous Hot Water Beach. Visit the Bay of Plenty, known for its golden sands and kiwifruit orchards. In Napier, admire the Art Deco architecture and tour Hawke's Bay wineries. Conclude your trip in Wellington, where you'll visit Zealandia eco-sanctuary, ride the cable car for panoramic views, and stroll along the vibrant waterfront. This diverse itinerary showcases New Zealand's coastal beauty, rich culture, and world-class wines.

A week-long trip to New Zealand offers an incredible array of experiences, from stunning natural wonders to rich cultural heritage. These 7-day itineraries showcase the diverse beauty of both the North and South Islands, providing an excellent starting point for your New Zealand adventure. Whether you're drawn to geothermal wonders, alpine landscapes, or coastal beauty, there's an itinerary to suit your interests. For a personalized journey tailored to your preferences, consider reaching out to our local travel experts, who can help craft your perfect customized New Zealand trip. For more information, go through our New Zealand guide.

 

New Zealand Tours
Published by Tim Green, updated on July 29, 2024
Plan a trip to New ZealandWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to New Zealand.
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