Discover New Zealand's Hidden Gems: One Week Itinerary

Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb: Start your day with an adrenaline rush by climbing the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and its stunning harbor.

Breakfast at Devonport: After the climb, head to Devonport, a charming suburb just a short ferry ride from Auckland. There are several cozy cafes and restaurants offering delicious breakfast options.

Explore Devonport: Take a stroll around Devonport's historic streets, lined with Victorian-style buildings and boutique shops. Don't miss visiting the Devonport Naval Base and North Head Historic Reserve for some cultural and natural exploration.

Lunch at Wynyard Quarter: Head back to the city and have lunch at Wynyard Quarter, a vibrant waterfront precinct. There are plenty of eateries serving a variety of cuisines, from seafood to gourmet burgers.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki: Spend the afternoon exploring the Auckland Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of New Zealand and international art. Take your time to appreciate the diverse artworks on display.

Albert Park: After the gallery, take a leisurely walk to Albert Park, located in the heart of the city. This lush green space offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

Dinner at Viaduct Harbour: For dinner, head to Viaduct Harbour, a lively waterfront precinct filled with bars and restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood or international cuisine while soaking in the stunning views of the harbor.

Nightlife in Auckland: Wrap up your day by experiencing Auckland's nightlife. Whether you prefer a cozy wine bar, a trendy cocktail lounge, or a lively nightclub, there's something for everyone in Auckland.

Optional:

Sky Tower : If time permits, consider visiting the Sky Tower, Auckland's iconic landmark. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck or even try the SkyWalk or SkyJump for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Ferry to Waiheke Island: Catch an early morning ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island. Ferries depart regularly from downtown Auckland and take around 35 minutes to reach the island.

Oneroa Village: Upon arrival, head to Oneroa Village, the main hub of Waiheke. Explore the village's shops, cafes, and art galleries. You can also pick up some snacks or picnic supplies for later in the day.

Wine Tasting: Waiheke Island is famous for its vineyards and wineries. Enjoy a leisurely lunch paired with wine tasting at one of the island's renowned vineyards, such as Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant or Cable Bay Vineyards.

Beach Time: Spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Waiheke's beautiful beaches. Oneroa Beach and Palm Beach are popular choices with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. You can swim, sunbathe, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Sunset at Onetangi Beach: Head to Onetangi Beach in the evening to catch a stunning sunset. This long sandy beach offers uninterrupted views of the horizon, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Waiheke.

Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at one of Waiheke's many fantastic restaurants. Whether you're craving seafood, gourmet cuisine, or casual dining, there are plenty of options to choose from in Oneroa Village or along the waterfront.

Overnight in Waiheke

Coastal Walk: Start your day with a scenic coastal walk along one of Waiheke's walking trails. The Te Ara Hura Track offers stunning views of the island's coastline, native bush, and vineyards. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water.

Village Exploration: After the walk, explore some of Waiheke's charming villages, such as Ostend or Surfdale. Browse local shops, cafes, and markets, and immerse yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle.

Picnic at a Vineyard: Pick up some gourmet treats from a local deli or market and enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic vineyard. Many vineyards on Waiheke offer picnic areas with stunning views overlooking the vineyards and the sea.

Outdoor Activities: Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or zip-lining. Waiheke Island offers a range of adventure activities that allow you to experience the island's natural beauty from a different perspective.

Ferry back to Auckland: Catch a late afternoon or early evening ferry back to Auckland, taking with you memories of your relaxing and adventurous getaway on Waiheke Island.

Depart to Queenstown and straight to Milford Sound via Te Anau: The drive takes approximately two-and-a-half to three hours, so it's best to leave early to make the most of your day.

Scenic Drive: Enjoy the breathtaking scenic drive along the Milford Road. Admire the towering mountains, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls along the way. Take your time to stop at viewpoints and photo spots along the road.

Cruise at Milford Sound: Arrive at Milford Sound around midday and embark on a scenic cruise along the fiord. Milford Sound is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with sheer cliffs rising from the dark waters, and waterfalls cascading down into the fiord. Enjoy the commentary provided by the cruise crew as they point out notable landmarks and wildlife.

Nature Walks: After the cruise, explore some of the walking tracks in the area. The Milford Sound area offers a variety of short walks suitable for all fitness levels, including the Milford Foreshore Walk and the Key Summit Track. These walks provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the pristine natural environment of Fiordland National Park.

Visit the Milford Discovery Centre: If you're interested in learning more about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area, visit the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory. The observatory allows you to descend into the depths of the fiord and observe the unique marine life that inhabits the waters of Milford Sound.

Return to Te Anau: After a day of exploring Milford Sound, begin your journey back to Te Anau. Take your time to enjoy the scenic drive once again, perhaps stopping at viewpoints you missed on the way in.

Dinner in Te Anau: Arrive back in Te Anau in the evening and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at one of the town's restaurants or cafes. Reflect on your incredible day of adventure and natural beauty in the heart of Fiordland.

Depart from Te Anau: Start your day by departing from Te Anau in the morning. The journey to Doubtful Sound involves a scenic drive followed by a boat ride across Lake Manapouri.

Drive to Manapouri: Drive from Te Anau to Manapouri, which takes approximately 20 minutes. Manapouri is the gateway to Doubtful Sound, and it's where you'll catch a boat across Lake Manapouri to the West Arm Power Station.

Cruise across Lake Manapouri: Board a boat at the Manapouri Wharf for a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you make your way to the West Arm Power Station.

Transfer to Doubtful Sound: Upon arrival at the West Arm Power Station, transfer to a coach for a journey across Wilmot Pass, offering panoramic views of Doubtful Sound and the surrounding wilderness.

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise: Board your overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound. Spend the afternoon exploring the sound, cruising past dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and native wildlife. Many cruises offer activities such as kayaking and nature walks.

Morning Activities: Participate in morning activities offered by your cruise, such as kayaking or guided nature walks. Alternatively, relax on deck and take in the breathtaking scenery of Doubtful Sound.

Return to Manapouri: After a morning of exploration, return to Manapouri by boat and coach. Take in the scenic views one last time as you journey back to Manapouri.

Drive back to Te Anau: Drive back to Te Anau from Manapouri, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves: In the late afternoon or early evening, visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Embark on a guided tour of the caves, where you'll marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the underground caverns.

Dinner in Te Anau: After the cave tour, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants or cafes in Te Anau. Reflect on your unforgettable experience in Doubtful Sound and the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.

Breakfast at a Local Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of Queenstown's many cafes. Enjoy a hearty meal and fuel up for a day of exploration.

Skyline Queenstown: Head to the Skyline Queenstown Gondola. Ride the gondola to the top of Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy thrilling activities such as the Luge or Mountain Biking (if available and weather permitting).

Queenstown Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the Queenstown Gardens. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the gardens offer beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. Explore the walking tracks, admire the floral displays, and take in the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Fergburger for Lunch: Head to Fergburger for a famous Queenstown lunch experience. This iconic burger joint is known for its delicious, generously-sized burgers made with fresh local ingredients. Be prepared for a line, but it's worth the wait!

Lake Wakatipu Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Choose from a variety of cruises, ranging from relaxing sightseeing cruises to thrilling jet boat adventures. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you glide across the crystal-clear waters.

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting: Explore Queenstown's vibrant shopping scene. Wander along the streets and browse the boutique shops, art galleries, and souvenir stores. Pick up some unique gifts or souvenirs to remember your time in Queenstown.

Dinner at a Lakeside Restaurant: End your day with a memorable dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Queenstown offers a wide range of dining options, from fine dining establishments to casual eateries. Choose a restaurant with a view of Lake Wakatipu to enjoy a picturesque sunset as you dine.

Nightlife in Queenstown: Experience Queenstown's lively nightlife scene. Head to one of the bars, pubs, or nightclubs in the town center and enjoy live music, cocktails, and dancing. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening or a night of excitement, Queenstown has something for everyone.

Optional Activities:

• Bungy jumping or skydiving for adrenaline junkies.

• Wine tasting tour in the nearby Central Otago wine region.

• Scenic drive to Glenorchy for more breathtaking landscapes.

Depart from Queenstown: Start your day early by departing from Queenstown in the morning. You can either rent a car or join a guided tour to explore the Otago wine region. The drive to the wine region takes approximately one to one-and-a-half hours.

Gibbston Valley: Begin your wine tasting adventure at Gibbston Valley, one of the most renowned wine sub-regions in Otago. Visit one or two wineries in Gibbston Valley to sample their award-winning Pinot Noir, as well as other varietals such as Chardonnay and Riesling.

Cromwell: After exploring Gibbston Valley, head to Cromwell, another prominent wine-producing area in the Otago region. Cromwell is known for its boutique wineries and stunning scenery. Stop at a few wineries in Cromwell to taste their wines and learn about the local winemaking techniques.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the winery restaurants or cafes in Cromwell. Many wineries offer delicious food options paired with their wines, allowing you to indulge in a gourmet dining experience surrounded by vineyards and picturesque landscapes.

Bannockburn: In the afternoon, make your way to Bannockburn, a charming village known for its premium Pinot Noir. Visit a couple of wineries in Bannockburn to taste their signature wines and explore the vineyards.

Wine Tasting and Tour: Join a guided wine tasting and vineyard tour at one of the wineries in Bannockburn. Learn about the winemaking process from grape to glass, and gain insights into the unique terroir of the Otago wine region.

Return to Queenstown: After a full day of wine tasting and exploration, begin your journey back to Queenstown in the late afternoon or early evening. Enjoy the scenic drive back, taking in the breathtaking views of the Central Otago countryside.

Dinner in Queenstown: Upon returning to Queenstown, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the town's many restaurants. Choose from a variety of cuisines, ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries, and unwind after a day of wine tasting.