14 Day New zealand Itinerary - both islands

Your 14 Day New Zealand Itinerary -  North Island - Auckland, Rotorua,  Napier, Wellington, fly to Christchurch - South Island - Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown (and Fiordland)

Your awesome 14 day New Zealand itinerary takes you on an epic journey through both islands.

On the North Island, our largest city, Auckland, awaits. From there, experience the beauty of Napier and Hawke's Bay, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the scenic and cultural delights of our capital, Wellington.

From there it's time to head over to the stunning South Island. Beginning in Christchurch, the garden city, you then head South to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, before moving on to the never ending action and wonderful scenery of Queenstown. And while you are there, take a day trip to Fiordland, a World Heritage listed wonder.

So just in case you had any doubts, yes, a 14 day New Zealand itinerary, covering both islands, is possible. Please read on.

First things first - you will need a car

New Zealand roads are generally very well kept. But they are often winding and hilly. This means that what may seem like a short drive on a map, actually takes longer than expected. 

So it's important to choose the right vehicle. Some prefer a larger SUV, but if it's just a small group or a couple, then a smaller sedan or hatch might be perfect.

Our fuel prices can be expensive compared to some countries, which is why our personal choice is often a hybrid vehicle.

What about an electric vehicle? Unfortunately, our charging network is not well developed at this stage, so unless you are planning on staying in one of the major cities like Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, we would avoid electric vehicles.

The best range and prices for your 14 day New Zealand itinerary

For several decades, DriveNow have been supplying rental vehicles to travellers around the world. We've partnered with them to give you access to vehicles from all of the major suppliers, at market leading rates.

For cars, you can compare prices and read reviews on our dedicated page here.

For campervans you can search a range of options here.

Day 1 of your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary -arrive in Auckland, the Harbour City

Welcome to Auckland, our "harbour city". Built around two gorgeous natural harbours, the water based lifestyle dominates here.

Where to stay in Auckland

If you have a flight that arrives at night it may be more convenient for you to stay near the airport. Both the Novotel and the Pullman are near the airport. Auckland Airport is around 20 kilometres south of central Auckland and the area might be a good choice as you are heading this way on day 3.

Closer to the city centre there's a wide choice of accommodation. We love the vibe of the Viaduct area, which has lots of pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants. And it's just a short walk to everything in the city centre.

You can see what's available here.

Day 2 - explore Auckland

Time is limited so to make the most of your stay in Auckland, we recommend an organised tour like the half day highlights tour. It goes for about 3.5 hours, and takes you to some of Auckland's scenic highlights. You can include hotel pick up and drop off from city centre hotels, and you can choose from an afternoon or morning tour.

A "must do" is a visit to our tallest building, the 328 metre high Skytower. The 360 degree views, are spectacular. And if you love a little adrenalin, try the Skywalk around the perimeter of the tower, or the more thrilling Skyjump (a 192 metre plunge)!

Another popular attraction is beautiful Waiheke Island. It sits off the coast, and we love taking our time exploring the cafes, wineries, and numerous scenic walks. The ferry ride to Waiheke is a relaxing experience and allows wonderful views from the water.

You can search a large range of Auckland activities below:

Day 3 - on your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary - drive from Auckland to Rotorua

Distance 216 klm (134 miles)

Driving time 3 hours

Where to stay in Rotorua

Rotorua is home to more than 60,000 people, so it has an excellent range of accommodation. There's everything from hostels to larger hotel chains, B&B's, and even luxury lodges.

We always like to stay near the lake at somewhere like the Millenium.

But have a look at your options here.

Day 4 - time to explore Rotorua

This is the geothermal and Maori cultural heart of New Zealand. Nowhere else in New Zealand has such a unique mix of activities, cultural experiences, and opportunities to just relax. The perfect combination really.

To get your bearings (and some amazing views), take a ride on the Skyline Gondola. Below, Lake Rotorua and the surrounding geothermal landscape unfolds. Up top, be sure to try the addictive luge, or spend some time with a coffee just taking in the views. It's a great way to get your bearings and appreciate the region's beauty.

Learn about traditional Māori culture on a guided tour of Te Puia. See the powerful Pohutu Geyser, and experience the delicate carvings inside the Maori meeting house. Then sit back and enjoy a wonderful cultural show which brings together Māori song and dance. We love it and we know you will also.

Over on the Kaituna River, the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall awaits. Are you up for the challenge? For something at the other end of the scale, you can explore the Redwood forest on their treetop walk, or by mountain bike. There's a good variety of trails suitable for varying levels of skill and experience.

At day's end, soak away any aches and pains at the Polynesian Spa, taking in the views of Lake Rotorua. There's a range of pools that vary in temperature and mineral composition. Relax and rejuvenate.

Before you leave Rotorua, you have to try a traditional Māori hangi. Your food is cooked underground, taking advantage of geothermal heat. Delicious and unique.

Enjoy the wonders of Rotorua!

Day 5 - drive from Rotorua to Napier

Distance 219 klm (136 miles)

Driving time 3 hours

Today takes you to the east coast and the Hawke's Bay region. Napier is the main town and sits in a prominent position on a beautiful stretch of the coast.

Where to stay in Napier

The coastal views here are stunning and we love staying along the shore front near to the town centre. The Shoreline Motel is a great choice.

You can see what's available for Napier and Hawke's Bay here.

Napier and Hawke’s Bay have so much to offer. There's the Art Deco charm, the world renowned wineries, some stunning landscapes and of course, that famous local hospitality. 

After a devastating earthquake in the 1930's Napier was rebuilt in an art deco style, and the streets are filled with pastel-hued buildings adorned with the striking geometric patterns of the time. A guided tour is a great way to learn about the rebirth of Napier.

But there's so much more to love about the region. Food and wine are at the forefront of so much adventure here, and we love to Tour the vineyards like Church Road and Mission Estate. Why not visit when the Food and Wine Classic ( F.A.W.C ) is on, for a true gastronomic delight.

Nature lovers rejoice. You can cycle the Hawke's Bay Trails, surrounded by vineyards and rocky coastlines, or visit scenic Te Mata Peak for wonderful views of the region.

There's also farmers' markets, numerous craft and art galleries, and lots of locals keen to share their wares with you. 

The National Aquarium of New Zealand is well worth a visit, and to cap off your day, head to the Ocean Spa. How could you beat a hot pool with ocean views?

If you love your golf like we do, the challenging Cape Kidnappers is not to be missed. The Cape is also well known for the large Gannet colony which is best visited on an organised tour like this one.

Napier and Hawke's Bay have so much to offer.

Day 6 - today your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary takes you from Napier to Wellington 

Distance 325 klm (202 miles)

Driving time 4.5 hours

Today takes you south to our enticing capital, Wellington.

Wellington accommodation

Perhaps the most popular area to stay is in the central city or at nearby Oriental Bay. There's hundreds of bars, restaurants, cafes and pubs near the city centre and it's also close to the ferry terminal and the cable car.

We like the Copthorne at Oriental Bay for the wonderful harbour views (but be sure to request a harbour view room) and picturesque walk to the centre of the city.

When we stay near the airport there's a range of hotels and Rydges is good because it's right next to the terminal.

You can search for places to stay throughout Wellington here.

Explore Wellington

The many streets and lanes in the Wellington CBD are home to a burgeonning cafe culture, and we always enjoy finding somewhere new for a meal or just a coffee.

While you are in Wellington there's a couple of popular activities that we recommend:

* take the iconic Wellington Cable Car to Kelburn Hill

* visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. So many interactive displays, and great fun for all ages

* see some of our native wildlife at the centrally located Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary

* want to see how some of those favourite movie characters were created? A visit to Weta Workshop, whose contribution to classics like Avatar, The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings is the stuff of legends.

Day 7 - today your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary switches from North to South as you fly from Wellington to Christchurch

Flight time 1 hour - you can search for, and book your flights below

Today takes you over Cook Strait to the South Island, and Christchurch, the "Garden City".

There's more than three hundred parks and significant gardens here, making Christchurch a relaxed, green, oasis.

Where to stay in Christchurch

If you have a flight that arrives late, it may be more convenient for you to stay close to Christchurch Airport. The Novotel is great because it's only 100 or so steps from the terminal. It's our late night choice. Around five or ten minutes walk away, the Sudima is also a great option. If you need a shuttle to the Sudima, you will need to call them on arrival. The airport is about 20 minutes drive from the city centre.

You can see a range of Christchurch accommodation here.

Day 8 - explore Christchurch

There's been a lot of re-development of the central city area over the last few years, and the section down along the river buzzes with dozens of bars, pubs and restaurants. Along the banks of the Avon River there's some beautiful walks, and the excellent dining precinct the Riverside Market.

For something a little unique, relax with a punt ride on the Avon (you could almost be in Venice), or maximise your time and combine your punt ride with the Christchurch Gondola and a tram ride through the city.

Next to the airport, the Antarctic Centre traces the history of anarctic exploration and has some fascinating displays including a 4D theatre, a penguin exhibit, an ATV ride, and a chilling "storm room".

Day 9 - drive from Christchurch to Tekapo today on your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary

Distance 226 klm (140 miles)

Driving time 3 hours

Places to stay in Tekapo

Handy tip - accommodation here can fill up months in advance, so we recommend getting in early.

You can see a range of accommodation here (we always like somewhere with a lake view).

Welcome to Tekapo, a charming village sitting on the edge of an impossibly turquoise lake, backed by the snow covered Southern Alps. Across Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, is an imposing sight.

Tekapo is the perfect half-way point between Christchurch and Queenstown and with scenery like this, one night just never seems enough here.

A good way to start your journey is with a visit to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. This quaint stone church features a large picture window overlooking the lake and to the alps beyond. Stunning.

Nearby, Tekapo Springs is the perfect spot to relax away those aches and pains. Whether you opt for a soak in the warm, relaxing waters, enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, or test your skills on the ice skating rink (seasonal), Tekapo Springs offers something for all ages. You can even combine a night time hot pool dip with a stargazing experience. Watch the heavens from the warmth of the pools!

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers numerous hiking trails. The Mount John Walkway is particularly popular, providing panoramic views of the Mackenzie Basin. It's also an ideal spot to stargaze at night, as Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, renowned for its clear, starry nights.

Adventure seekers can try heli-skiing during the winter or take a scenic flight over the stunning snow-capped mountains. For a more relaxed experience, try mountain biking or horseback riding along the lakefront.

If you are lucky enough to be here between November and January, the lakeshore is dotted with multi-coloured Lupins (see the image below), a beautiful sight.

As your day winds down, sample our local cuisine at one of the charming eateries in town, featuring everything from fresh local salmon to hearty lamb dishes.

Tekapo, with its blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, warmly invites you to explore its wonders and create unforgettable memories. Safe travels!

Day 10 - drive from Tekapo to Queenstown on your 14 Day New Zealand itinerary

Distance 256 klm (159 miles)

Driving time 3.5 hours

Today it's time to head to  perhaps the most popular destination in New Zealand, Queenstown.

The drive today is filled with OMG moments. Around 30 minutes south of Tekapo, Lake Pukaki unfolds before you. Like Lake Tekapo, the waters are an amazing turquoise colour, fed by melt from glaciers in the Southern Alps. There's several spots to pull over and take pictures, and the Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre is well worth a stop. A further 15 minutes on, the pretty town of Twizel is well worth a stop for a coffee break, or to top up the fuel. Around 5 minutes after Twizel, the High Country Salmon farm is a fascinating spot to learn about how salmon is commercially farmed. You can buy some delicious local salmon, and you can even fish for your own salmon.

Another 45 minutes or so brings you to Lindis Pass. With an elevation of 971 metres, the pass is subject to snow in the cooler months, so more care is needed when driving at those times. The hills are covered with golden tussock grass, and this gives the area a really unique look. Be sure to stop at the observation point for some pictures.

Another hour or so brings you to Cromwell, a beautiful service town, famous for it's stone fruits, and more recently, the Highland's Motorsport Park.

The final hour from Cromwell to Queenstown reveals numerous wineries, and the craggy Kawarau Gorge, which winds it's way between steep rocky cliffs. Around 20 minutes before Queenstown, stop off at the original AJ Hackett Bungy centre. If you can build up the courage, try a bungy. It's a thrilling thing to do. Or, you can head down to the observation deck, and watch others take the 43 metre leap.

Queenstown sits tucked between towering mountains, on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, and is somewhere that just takes your breath away.

Important information about where to stay in Queenstown

If you are visiting Queenstown for the first time, your choice of accommodation is really important. We've put together some information on our Queenstown accommodation page, which you can read here. Please take the time to read the "Some Tips About Where To Stay In Queenstown" section, and if you have any questions at all, please ask us.

Welcome, welcome, welcome.

If ever there was a destination that gave a positive first impression, Queenstown is just such a place.

As you drive in past the turnoff to the airport, Lake Wakatipu comes into view, and is your constant companion for the next five or six kilometres as the Frankton Rd leads you to the town centre. Beyond the lake, the Remarkables mountain range towers above, and in the cooler months, the snow-capped peaks are a stunning sight.

The hillsides are filled with homes overlooking the lake, and Frankton Rd is home to various hotels, holiday apartments and resorts.

Day 11- explore Queenstown and the Southern Lakes

There is an almost never ending range of things to do in and around Queenstown. The Southern Lakes region, which includes nearby Wanaka, is there for you to explore and enjoy.

If you've heard all the noise about Queenstown being the "Adventure Capital", well it's absolutely true. Here you can bungy off a bridge or a cable car over a gorge, you can skydive over the alps, jetboat through gorges, go whitewater rafting, and so much more.

But Queenstown is also a place of peace and serenity. The majesty of the place never fails to impress us, and one of the best things to do here, is simply "nothing". As a place to chill and take in the views, or to sit with a coffee and people watch, Queenstown is without peer. Activities like lake cruises, gondola rides, wandering through the markets, or day trips to Glenorchy, historic Arrowtown or Wanaka, are all guaranteed to lower your stress levels.

We've put together a dedicated page with heaps of information on our recommendations for things to see and do here, so maybe grab a coffee and have a look.

Day 12 - take an organised day tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound

We've dedicated a full day to Fiordland. This is a "must do" while you are here, and a definite highlight of your 14 day New Zealand itinerary.

Now don't be fooled. If you look at a map, Milford Sound is around 70 kilometres in a direct line from Queenstown. However, a little natural formation known as the Southern Alps sits between the two. So to get to Milford Sound or Doubtfull Sound from Queenstown, you need to fly, or drive around the Alps. If you choose to drive, it takes more than 4 hours, each way, to get to Milford Sound. So more than 8 hours driving. Add to that the time required for your cruise (2-3 hours), and some time to see the sights on the way, and you suddenly have a 12 or 13 hour day.

Flights are a jaw dropping way to get to and from Fiordland. BUT, they are very much dependant on the weather, and can be cancelled at short notice.

If you are staying in Queenstown, we strongly recommend that you do not drive yourself to Fiordland. It's just too tiring, particularly on unfamiliar roads. So our preference is to make a day of it, and take an organised coach tour. These are fabulous, and include stops at several scenic spots along the way, and of course, that important local knowledge. It's still a 12 or 13 hour day, but you can sleep on the coach on the way home.

You can see a range of tours below, or for more information please head over to our Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound pages.

Day 13 - explore Queenstown and Southern Lakes

Today gives you a chance to catch up on anything you may have missed out on earlier. Highly recommended are a cruise and lunch or dinner on the TSS Earnslaw, a visit to Bob's Peak on the gondola, or a visit to the Queenstown Underwater Observatory.

Day 14 - depart Queenstown

Unfortunately it's time to head home. We hope you come back again.

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