10-Day New Zealand Itinerary: Must-Visit Spots from North to South Island

New Zealand had always been a bucket-list destination for me, and last year, I finally made the trip. Inspired by the stunning landscapes featured in The Lord of the Rings, my 10-day journey was nothing short of magical. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the trip, which could help you plan your own New Zealand adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland

Our journey began in Auckland, where we picked up our rental car at the airport. The flexibility of having a car allowed us to explore the beautiful countryside at our own pace.

Day 2: Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton – Adventure and Movie Magic in a Day

We kicked off the day with a drive to Waitomo Caves, where we experienced black water rafting—an unforgettable adventure. Floating through the glowworm-lit caves was breathtaking.

From there, we drove to Hobbiton Movie Set. This two-hour guided tour immerses you in the world of The Lord of the Rings. Walking through the Shire, surrounded by hobbit holes and picturesque landscapes, felt like stepping into another world. After exploring Hobbiton, we continued our journey to Rotorua, where we stayed for the next two nights.

Days 3-4: Rotorua – Culture and Hot Springs

Rotorua is a bustling city with so much to offer. On our first full day, we took part in a Maori cultural experience, learning about traditional Maori practices, tasting local food, and witnessing the Haka dance. On Day 4, we indulged in Rotorua's famous hot springs, a perfect way to relax after days of adventure, and explored the geothermal wonders of the city.

Day 5: Mount Maunganui – Beach Stop

On the way back to Auckland to catch our flight to the South Island, we made a stop at Mount Maunganui. This beautiful coastal spot, with its stunning beach, was the only beach visit of our trip. It offered a peaceful, scenic break before heading to our next destination.

South Island: Adventure, Scenery, and Serenity

Day 6-7: Queenstown – Adventure Capital of the World

We kicked off our South Island adventure in Queenstown, where we stayed for two nights. On the first day, we explored the charming town and went on an exhilarating jet boat ride. The thrill of speeding through narrow canyons is unlike anything else and a must-do for adventure lovers.

The next day, we set off for a day trip to Milford Sound, one of the most breathtaking places I've ever seen. The 4-hour drive from Queenstown, followed by the tour, was absolutely worth it. The sheer cliffs, 1000s of waterfalls, and the raw beauty of Milford Sound make it an essential stop on any South Island itinerary.

Day 6-7: Queenstown – Adventure Capital of the World

We began our South Island journey in Queenstown, staying for two nights. On the first day, we explored the vibrant town and went on an exhilarating jet boat ride—a one-of-a-kind experience that’s perfect for thrill-seekers.

The next day, we embarked on a tour to Milford Sound, which was one of the most surreal experiences of the trip. The 4-hour drive, followed by breathtaking views of the fiords, countless waterfalls, and towering cliffs, made the long journey completely worth it.

Day 8: Wanaka – Scenic Stops and Instagram-Worthy Views

From Queenstown, we drove to Wanaka (about 1.5 hours). Along the way, we stopped at a winery to take in the stunning views and sample some local wine. Once in Wanaka, we visited the iconic #thatwanakatree, one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand.

Next, we continued to Mount Aspiring National Park, planning to visit Blue Pool. However, it was closed when we arrived, so be sure to check online if you’re planning to visit this popular spot.

Day 9: Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo – Hiking and Stargazing

From Wanaka, we drove to Mount Cook and completed the Hooker Valley walk, an easy 3-hour round trip hike with incredible views of Mount Cook. We also did a short 30-minute hike to the Tasman Glacier view.

Later that evening, we drove to Lake Tekapo for our stay. Lake Tekapo is renowned for being one of the darkest places on Earth, making it a prime location for stargazing. Unfortunately, we visited during a full moon, so the stars weren’t as visible as we had hoped. If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to check the moon phases for optimal stargazing.

Day 10: Lake Tekapo and Christchurch

The next morning, we took some time to drive around Lake Tekapo, known for its striking turquoise waters and serene surroundings. On our way to Christchurch, we stopped at the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, a hidden gem with scenic views and a perfect spot for a break during the drive. After arriving in Christchurch, we spent the evening exploring the nearby areas, enjoying a relaxed dinner before heading to our hotel.

Day 11: Back to Auckland

We flew back to Auckland early the next morning and stayed in Downtown Auckland. We spent the day visiting iconic tourist spots, making the most of our last day in this beautiful country.

Day 12: Departure from New Zealand

Sadly, all great trips must come to an end. We left New Zealand the next day, full of unforgettable memories and a desire to return someday.

Tips for Planning Your South Island Trip:

• Wanaka: Don’t miss #thatwanakatree and plan ahead if you’re considering a visit to Blue Pool—check online for closures.
• Lake Tekapo: Known for its dark skies, Lake Tekapo is ideal for stargazing, but check the moon phases for the best experience. We visited during a full moon, which lessened the impact.
• Travel Time: Expect long but scenic drives between key locations—having a flexible schedule helps you enjoy the journey.

Here is detailed google sheet with all the details. Link