OUR 15 DAY/14 NIGHT ITINERARY
Here’s what our 15 day New Zealand itinerary looked like:
Queenstown (5 nights)
Franz Joseph (2 nights)
Christchurch (1 night)
Tongariro National Park (2 nights)
Auckland (1 night)
Bay of Islands (3 nights)
—
Total days: 15
QUEENSTOWN
Where to stay:
We stayed at Scenic Suites Queenstown — a great mid-range option just a short walk from downtown with spacious rooms and a full kitchen. Perfect for easy breakfasts before active days!
Other great options:
• Platinum Queenstown Villas – ideal for families or groups with roomy apartment-style accommodations.
• Lakeridge Queenstown – beautiful lake views and walking distance to town.
If you're looking for a luxury stay, here are a few top options I can book with exclusive perks like daily breakfast, resort credits, and room upgrades when available:
• Eichardt’s Private Hotel – Lakefront luxury with a boutique feel
• Matakauri Lodge – An elegant retreat just minutes from town, with stunning lake and mountain views
• The Rees Hotel – Five-star waterfront property with exceptional service and cuisine
What to do:
The adventure capital of New Zealand has no shortage of things to do! You could easily spend 10+ days here. I created a separate 5-day Queenstown guide with all the details, but here are a few musts:
• Day trip to Milford Sound (by coach or scenic flight)
• Bungee jumping or paragliding for thrill-seekers
• White-water rafting or jet boating
• Hike part of the Routeburn or Milford Track
• Relax at Onsen Hot Pools with a glass of wine
• Explore Arrowtown for a charming half-day trip
FRANZ JOSEPH
Where to stay:
We stayed at a local motel-style lodge that offered easy access to the glacier tour center. For something a little more special, I’d recommend:
• Rainforest Retreat – Treehouse vibes, hot tubs, and right in the middle of town
• Te Waonui Forest Retreat – A luxury eco-hotel nestled in the rainforest
What to do:
The Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike is the main event here—and for good reason! It’s a surreal experience to land on the glacier and hike through shimmering blue ice formations.
However, due to weather, our tour was canceled the first day. Instead, we spent the day kayaking on Lake Mapourika, surrounded by mountains and native forest. Absolutely stunning and peaceful.
We were lucky that the next morning was clear and we could do the heli-hike before driving to Christchurch. It was a long but scenic 5-hour drive through Arthur’s Pass.
CHRISTCHURCH
Where to stay:
We stayed one night in the heart of the city.
• The George – A boutique luxury hotel known for personalized service.
• Fable Christchurch – Stylish and centrally located.
VIP bookings here can include complimentary breakfast, late checkout, and more.
What to do:
Christchurch is a city in transformation. Depending on your time and interests:
• Wander the Botanic Gardens and Avon River
• Check out the Riverside Market
• Visit the Canterbury Museum or take a punting tour
• For something quirky, explore the Cardboard Cathedral
TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
Where to stay:
• Chateau Tongariro Hotel – A historic hotel with mountain views and old-world charm
• Local lodges in National Park Village also offer cozy, no-fuss options
What to do:
Home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the best day hikes in the world.
You’ll walk past volcanic peaks, emerald lakes, and steaming vents – it’s like stepping onto another planet.
Other activities:
• Short hikes like Taranaki Falls Track
• Visit the filming sites of Mount Doom (yes, Lord of the Rings fans!)
Pro tip: Weather can be unpredictable—pack layers and check track conditions in advance.
AUCKLAND
Where to stay:
• Hotel Britomart – Sleek, sustainable, and in a great location
• SO/ Auckland – Chic hotel with skyline views and a rooftop bar
• Park Hyatt Auckland – A modern waterfront escape with resort-level service
As a preferred partner with many luxury brands, I can often include breakfast for two, upgrades, and early check-in/late checkout when available.
What to do:
With just one night, we kept it low-key. A few highlights if you have time:
• Take a harbor cruise or ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting
• Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum
• Dine at the Viaduct Harbour or Britomart district
BAY OF ISLANDS
Where to stay:
• The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – Ultra-luxury with stunning ocean views
• Paihia Beach Resort & Spa – Beachfront, stylish, and walkable to town
Booking luxury properties like Kauri Cliffs through me can include resort credits, spa treatments, and special amenities you won’t find online.
What to do:
• Canyoning in the waterfalls and canyons of the area – adrenaline and nature wrapped into one
• Hole in the Rock boat tour
• Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds to learn about NZ’s history
• Go sailing or dolphin watching
• Relax on the beach or paddleboard in the bay
FAQS
What time of year is best to visit New Zealand?
The best time is December to March (their summer). Great weather and longer daylight hours, especially for hiking and outdoor adventures.
What was your favorite city in New Zealand?
Queenstown – hands down! It's packed with adventure, incredible views, and great restaurants.
How long do I need for a trip to New Zealand?
I recommend at least 14–15 days to explore both the North and South Islands without rushing. If you can do 3 weeks, even better!
What’s the best way to get around in New Zealand?
Self-driving is ideal. The roads are scenic and well-maintained, and it gives you the flexibility to stop at lookouts or small towns along the way. Just remember—they drive on the left!
READY TO PLAN YOUR OWN NEW ZEALAND ADVENTURE?
If this itinerary has you dreaming of glaciers, glow worms, and luxury lodges, I’d love to help you plan your own tailor-made journey. From adventure-packed itineraries to romantic escapes, I’ll take care of all the details — and make sure you get VIP perks every step of the way.
Let’s start planning!
✨ Ask me about complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and room upgrades at top-tier hotels and lodges.
Need help planning and booking your own New Zealand Adventure?
