A Detailed 2-Week New Zealand Itinerary for Exploring South Island’s Stunning Landscapes and Vibrant Cities

Day 1

Fly to LAX and then embark on a 13-hour journey to Auckland with Air New Zealand. American Airlines also offers daily flights only from DFW. During the flight, take the opportunity to learn a few key words in Māori, such as "kia ora" (hello). This phrase is commonly used as an informal greeting or farewell, similar to "hi" or "goodbye," and can also be used to express thanks, akin to "cheers."

Day 2

This day evaporates into the ether. Enjoy a glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc wine on your flight.

Day 3

Arrive in Auckland and check into the hotel and get acclimated. Jet lag isn’t too bad as it is only a 4-hour time zone change (just a day ahead from Arizona). Cordis Hotel is a comfortable choice, though it is situated up a hill and about a 15-20 minute walk from the commercial area along the water. For those wanting to be closer to the harbor, consider staying at the trendy QT Hotel. Good restaurant choices for dinner are Soul Bar and Bistro overlooking the waterfront on Viaduct Harbour, or explore Amano or Alma for more great dining option. For breakfast, coffee or lunch try Scratch Bakery or Rude Boys Deli. We found that spending two nights in Auckland was just right before embarking on the rest of our adventure. If you're looking to add more activities to your day, consider hopping on one of the touristy hop-on, hop-off busses, which provide a great way to see the city. We also recommend The All Blacks Experience, where you can learn about the significant role rugby plays in New Zealand's culture and enjoy an immersive Haka experience.

Day 4

Take a Fullers Ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island, a scenic 40-minute journey. This unforgettable island is perfect for exploration, and we highly recommend renting e-bikes from Waiheke Bike Shop ahead of time. The staff will meet you right at the ferry station. The island is perfect for biking and stunning, with paths winding through neighborhoods and along charming island roads. Bike to Stonyridge, a picturesque winery on the far side of the island. End the afternoon at Mudbrick and/or Cable Bay Vineyards wineries, which have incredible views out over the Hauraki Gulf towards Auckland. Mudbrick also offers accommodations, and we would definitely return to experience this romantic lodge. Another way to explore wineries and the island is to schedule a Waiheke Island tour. Return on the ferry and spend another night in Auckland. Dinner at Esther Restaurant at QT Hotel or .

Day 5

Catch a morning flight to Christchurch, where getting around without a car is quite manageable. Enjoy lunch at one of the many delightful eateries at the Riverside Market. Afterward, stroll to Punting on the Avon, an iconic Christchurch experience. Drift along the Avon River on an Edwardian-style punting tour. Marvel at the picturesque Botanic Gardens, established in 1863 with the planting of an English oak to commemorate the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess Alexandra of Denmark. Opt for the combo pass, which includes all-day tram rides and punting, and more. While on the tram, hop off at the New Regent Quarter, home to an array of quirky, unique boutique stores, bars, and restaurants. For accommodations, consider The George Hotel, a charming boutique option close to downtown. We stayed at the Mayfair Hotel, a stylish establishment built in 2022, though it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the commercial area. For dinner, King of Snake is an exquisite choice that won’t disappoint. Start your day with breakfast and coffee at C1 Expresso, housed in a beautifully repurposed building. Christchurch is a city best explored on foot, so be prepared to walk and take in its abundant charm.

Day 6

Picking up your rental car and drive two hours to the Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area, renowned for its colossal and uniquely shaped limestone monoliths. Following this captivating exploration, indulge in an exquisite stay at the Wilderness Lodge at Arthur’s Pass, an additional 30 minutes away. The property boasts breathtaking panoramic vistas (so get there at check-in!). Nestled within a 4000-acre farm and nature reserve, surrounded by the spectacular Arthur's Pass National Park. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you join expert naturalist guides on a complimentary activities (approx. 90 min). Engage in the high country sheep farm discovery, where you'll witness sheepdogs in action and learn about merino wool production. Alternatively, embark on the the birds & special plants of the beech forest tour. As evening descends, savor delectable dinner on property. Prepare to be captivated by the tranquility and serenity of this idyllic retreat, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Day 7

Arthur's Pass National Park offers numerous hiking opportunities, with the chance to spot the endangered iconic mountain parrots, Kea (the world's only alpine parrot), in Arthur Pass Village. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive of approximately an hour to reach the charming beach town of Hokitika. While dining options are available in Hokitika, we opted for a more unique experience. Consider venturing just 30 minutes further to the historic Empire Hotel in Ross for a unique pub (and a dive) experience amidst friendly locals. Continuing along the West Coast, you'll arrive at the town of Franz Josef, serving as the gateway to "Glacier Country." The weather conditions may impact helicopter tours of the glaciers. Apparently, only about 60% of the scheduled trips are able to proceed and ours got cancelled that hour. So instead, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre for a chance to observe live Kiwi birds in their natural habitat (and please consider making a donation). Stay at the Te Wanoni Forest Retreat, widely regarded as the finest accommodation in town. With dinner and breakfast included, this retreat offers an unparalleled experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the South Island's West Coast. Alternatively, there are several more budget-friendly lodging options available.

Day 8

Franz Josef offers multiple helicopter tour options, making advance booking essential. These tours are a key attraction drawing tourists to the area. Following your time in Franz Josef, embark on an incredibly scenic 4-hour drive to the stunning Lake Wanaka. If weather conditions permit, make stops at Lake Mathison and Ship Creek along the way, both offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique landscapes. There are lots of scenic stops along this river-side road. Upon reaching Lake Wanaka (target by 3pm), check in at the Edgewater Hotel and head for the 1-hour happy hour lake tour with Lake Wanaka Cruises, providing a perfect introduction to the tranquil waters of the lake. Afterward, enjoy a lake-side dinner at Trout Restaurnat & Cafe. After dinner, park your car at Wanaka Watersports Facility and head to the That Wanakaa Tree. It’s an iconic willow tree growing in the lake and is a social media celebrity. Don't hesitate to ask locals for directions to this picturesque spot.

Day 9

Head towards towards Queenstown, don't miss the opportunity to stop at the charming Cardrona Valley General Store (great coffe and choice of gift souvenirs) and across the street, explore the historic Cardrona Hotel. Be sure to take a detour to Arrowtown, a quaint old mining town brimming with delightful shops and cafes. Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Dishery before continuing your drive. Passing through Queenstown, proceed onwards for another scenic 2-hour drive to the enchanting town of Te Anau. Stay at the Radford on the Lake Hotel, you'll receive exceptional service from the manager, Kerri, who is dedicated to ensuring your experience is nothing short of remarkable (helped with tours and restaurant reservations). Dine at the Red Cliff restaurant, the premier dining establishment in town and I believe a couple of restaurants were closed on a Monday. Before retiring for the evening, catch a screening of the captivating movie Ata Whenua, at Fiordland Cinema.

Day 10

Day trip. Consider starting your day with a leisurely breakfast, and be sure to grab a delicious "to go" lunch from Sandfly. The scenic drive to Milford Sound takes approximately two hours each way, offering breathtaking views along the journey. Numerous boat companies offer 1.5-hour cruises of the fjord, so it's advisable to book your cruise in advance to secure your spot. I would suggest staying at a boutique Milford Lodge if you are not returning to Te Anau. Luxurious, studio chalets with a front-row position overlooking the Cleddau River. Has limited rooms so line up your reservation extra early.

Day 11

For those waking up in Te Anau, embark on a boat tour across the serene Lake Te Anau to explore the enchanting Glowworm Caves (unless you are claustrophobic). Afterwards, set out on a scenic drive to Queenstown, tracing the shores of the picturesque Lake Wakatipu. Along the way, soak in the majestic vistas of the Remarkables Mountain Range, renowned for its iconic appearance in the Lord of the Rings films. If you're in the mood for indulgence, consider treating yourself to a stay at the luxurious Rosewood Matakauri Lodge. Alternatively, the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers a more budget-friendly option with splendid lake views. During our stay, we opted for the comfort of the Sofitel Hotel, which provided a delightful experience with its impeccable service and convenient location. Queenstown boasts an array of culinary delights. Savor delectable meals at establishments such as Boardwalk, Jervois Steak House, Blue Kanu, Momentos by the Lake, and Rata. Afterward, unwind with a drink at The Lodge Bar, where you can revel in the captivating views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Live entertainment at Ballarat Bar.

Day 12

Quenstown. Take a scenic 1-hour drive along the stunning lakeshore to Glenorchy, where you can experience an exhilarating jet boat ride on the Dart River. You can also take jet boats right out of Queenstown, available on the Shotover River, which emphasize thrilling splashes and fast-paced excitement. In contrast, the Dart River tour offers a longer, more scenic adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes.

Day 13

Queenstown. Take a picturesque 1-hour drive to the town of Cromwell and rent e-bikes from Cromwell Heritage Precinct Bike Rentals. For inquiries, contact Rod Mudge at rod@llevant.co.nz. There are various tours available, but we opted for the Lake Dunstan Trail, a spectacular 4-hour journey. Midway through the trail, you'll find a cute Coffeeafloat + Burgerafloat, an ward-Winning Floating Burger Bar—an unforgettable stop you won't miss. I think I would do the bike trail just for the burgers next time, its so clever! After your biking adventure, unwind with some wine tasting in the Bannockburn Vineyards or Gibbston regions. We visited Kinross and Peregrine wineries, both of which offered delightful experiences, but you'll find numerous other excellent options to explore.

Day 14

Queenstown. Book a flight with Glenorchy Air to Mt. Cook and prepare to be amazed by the otherworldly scenery. Upon landing, you'll have a variety of activities to choose from, including pre-arranged hiking options. Having missed the glacier helicopter tour in Franz Josef, we seized the opportunity to take a helicopter tour to the Tasman Glacier here instead. Book this with Mount Cook Ski Planes. This day turned out to be the highlight of our trip. Keep in mind, though, that weather conditions can often interfere with flights, but we were fortunate to enjoy clear blue skies.

Day 15

Spend your final day leisurely strolling through the shops of Queenstown, where you can pick up some obligatory Merino wool sweaters or Kathmandu outdoor wear as souvenirs. In the evening, catch a late flight to Auckland and then connect to LAX. You'll regain the day you lost on the journey down, making the most of every moment of your adventure.

General Thoughts

Reservations
Advance reservations are essential for nearly every stop—hotels, restaurants, and tours. Be aware that some establishments may be closed on Mondays.

Travel Dates
We traveled in late November to early December, which marks the start of New Zealand’s summer.

Focus
Our trip centered on the South Island, renowned for its mountainous terrain. While the North Island is also beautiful, we recommend focusing on one island unless your stay exceeds two weeks. New Zealand's rugged terrain means that driving between locations takes time.

Daily Travel
Expect to be on the move for a few hours most days. Pack accordingly, but note that several hotels offer laundry facilities.

Unexpected Stops
Leave time for spontaneous stops. The stunning scenery may entice you to make unplanned detours.

Weather
The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers regardless of the morning forecast.

Queenstown vs. Christchurch
We spent several days in Queenstown, a breathtaking mountain town. Christchurch, larger and situated on the plains near the sea, is also lovely and worth more time if possible. These cities offer very different experiences.

Population
With a population of just around 1 million, the South Island has minimal traffic, making driving (even on the left side) quite manageable. Few roads make it hard to get lost, and GPS isn't essential. Sheep sightings are frequent.

Budget
Itinerary above can range from $8,000-10,000 for two people (including flights, tours, dining, hotels).

Milford Track
Consider adding the Milford Track to your itinerary. This world-famous hike from Te Anau to Milford Sound spans three days and requires a permit. Permits are allocated via a lottery system and must be obtained well in advance.