New Zealand South Island Adventure: Queenstown & Milford Sound Explorer

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Queenstown, New Zealand

   9 activities

   • 10:00 - 11:30Travel

     Arrival at Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

     Arrive at Queenstown Airport, the gateway to New Zealand's adventure capital. Enjoy the stunning aerial views of the Southern Alps as you land, setting the tone for your thrilling trip.

     Queenstown Airport (ZQN), Sir Henry Wigley Dr, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
     ArrivalAirport
   • 11:30 - 12:30Travel

     Hotel Check-in: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

     Check into your comfortable accommodation at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, centrally located with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Settle in and prepare for an action-packed adventure.

     Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
     AccommodationCheck-in
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at Fergburger

     Experience Queenstown's iconic Fergburger, famous for its generously sized and delicious gourmet burgers. Be prepared for a queue, but the taste is well worth the wait!

     42 Shotover St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$50
     Local CuisineBurgers
   • 14:30 - 16:30Event

     AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump

     Dare to take the plunge at the world's first commercial bungy jump site! Leap 43 meters from the historic Kawarau Bridge, feeling the ultimate rush as you freefall towards the turquoise river below.

     Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre, Gibbston Valley, Queenstown 9384, New Zealand~$300
     Extreme SportsAdventureBungy
   • 18:30 - 19:30Eating

     Dinner at Rātā

     Indulge in modern New Zealand cuisine at Rātā, co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting, perfect for unwinding after an adventurous day.

     43 Ballarat St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$180
     Fine DiningModern New Zealand
2. 2

   Day 2 — Queenstown, New Zealand

   9 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

     Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder, known for its fresh, organic ingredients and excellent coffee. A local favourite for a vibrant morning meal.

     16 Rees St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$50
     BreakfastCafeHealthy
   • 09:30 - 11:30Event

     Shotover Jet Experience

     Hold on tight for the Shotover Jet, an exhilarating jet boat ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. Experience thrilling 360-degree spins and high speeds, getting incredibly close to the canyon walls.

     Shotover Jet, Gorge Rd, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand~$350
     AdventureJet BoatingThrill
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at Erik's Fish and Chips

     Enjoy a classic Kiwi meal at Erik's Fish and Chips, offering fresh, locally sourced seafood. Grab a takeaway and enjoy it by the lake for a casual and authentic Queenstown experience.

     Cnr Stanley & Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$40
     Casual DiningSeafood
   • 14:00 - 16:30Sightseeing

     Skyline Gondola & Luge

     Ascend 450 meters via the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables. Then, race down the mountain on the thrilling Luge track, choosing your own adventure with multiple tracks.

     Skyline Queenstown, Brecon St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$100
     ViewsLugeFamily Fun
   • 18:00 - 19:30Eating

     Dinner at Botswana Butchery

     Savour premium cuts of meat and local produce at Botswana Butchery, a sophisticated restaurant with a lively atmosphere. Enjoy a memorable dining experience with excellent wine pairings.

     17 Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$160
     SteakhouseFine DiningMeat
3. 3

   Day 3 — Queenstown, New Zealand

   9 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

     Enjoy a wholesome and delicious breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen, known for its creative menu, fresh ingredients, and excellent coffee. A perfect start before a scenic drive.

     9 Isle St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$45
     BreakfastCafeHealthy
   • 10:00 - 12:00Exploration

     Explore Glenorchy & Dart River Valley

     Drive the scenic 'Routeburn Road' to Glenorchy, a charming village at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu. Explore the stunning Dart River Valley, famous for its dramatic landscapes and Lord of the Rings filming locations.

     Glenorchy, Otago 9372, New Zealand
     Scenic DriveLord of the RingsNature
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at The GYC (Glenorchy Cafe)

     Enjoy a casual lunch at The GYC, a charming local cafe in Glenorchy offering hearty meals, snacks, and good coffee. It's the perfect spot to refuel amidst stunning natural beauty.

     10 Wakatipu St, Glenorchy 9372, New Zealand~$40
     CafeLocal FoodCasual
   • 14:00 - 16:00Exploration

     Hiking the Lake Sylvan Track

     Embark on a leisurely hike along the Lake Sylvan Track, a beautiful loop through ancient beech forest leading to a picturesque lake. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and stunning reflections.

     Lake Sylvan Track, Routeburn Road, Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand
     HikingNatureForest
   • 18:30 - 19:30Eating

     Dinner at Flame Bar & Grill

     Enjoy a lively dinner at Flame Bar & Grill, famous for its delicious South African-style ribs and steaks. The generous portions and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice.

     88 Beach St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$120
     RibsSteakCasual
4. 4

   Day 4 — Te Anau, New Zealand

   9 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

     Enjoy a final breakfast at your Queenstown hotel before embarking on the scenic journey to Te Anau, the gateway to Milford Sound.

     Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$50
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 11:30 - 12:30Travel

     Hotel Check-in: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

     Arrive in Te Anau and check into your lakefront hotel. Settle into your room and take in the tranquil views of Lake Te Anau, preparing for your Fiordland adventures.

     Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand
     AccommodationCheck-in
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at Sandfly Cafe

     Enjoy a casual and hearty lunch at Sandfly Cafe, a popular spot in Te Anau known for its delicious sandwiches, pies, and friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a quick bite before your next adventure.

     9 The Lane, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$40
     CafeCasualLocal
   • 14:00 - 16:30Exploration

     Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

     Embark on a magical journey to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Travel by scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, then explore underground caverns and witness thousands of tiny glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry night.

     RealNZ Visitor Centre, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$150
     NatureCavesUnique Experience
   • 18:30 - 19:30Eating

     Dinner at The Fat Duck

     Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Fat Duck, a highly-rated restaurant in Te Anau offering a diverse menu with fresh, local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. A great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

     124 Town Centre, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$100
     Modern EuropeanLocal Produce
5. 5

   Day 5 — Te Anau, New Zealand

   7 activities

   • 07:00 - 07:45Eating

     Early Breakfast at hotel

     Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the epic journey to Milford Sound. A quick and convenient meal before your tour departure.

     Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$40
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 10:00 - 14:00Sightseeing

     Milford Sound Cruise & Kayaking

     Experience the grandeur of Milford Sound with a scenic cruise, marveling at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Opt for a kayaking extension to get up close to the fiord's serene waters and powerful nature.

     Milford Sound Visitor Terminal, Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand~$300
     FiordlandCruiseNatureKayaking
   • 16:30 - 17:30Eating

     Late Lunch / Snack at Te Anau Dairy

     Grab a quick and easy late lunch or snack at a local dairy in Te Anau. Replenish your energy after the long Milford Sound excursion.

     102 Town Centre, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$30
     SnackConvenience
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner at La Dolce Vita

     Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at La Dolce Vita, a cozy restaurant in Te Anau offering delicious pasta, pizza, and classic dishes. A perfect comforting meal after an adventurous day.

     Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$90
     ItalianComfort Food
6. 6

   Day 6 — Queenstown, New Zealand

   9 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at hotel

     Enjoy breakfast at your Te Anau hotel before starting your journey back to Queenstown. Fuel up for the scenic drive ahead.

     Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand~$40
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 11:30 - 12:30Travel

     Hotel Check-in: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

     Check back into your familiar Novotel Queenstown Lakeside hotel. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a central location for your final night in Queenstown.

     Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
     AccommodationCheck-in
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at Taco Medic

     Savor fresh and delicious tacos at Taco Medic, a popular spot offering authentic Mexican street food with a Kiwi twist. Perfect for a quick and flavorful lunch.

     3 Searle Ln, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$40
     MexicanCasual
   • 14:30 - 16:00Event

     Onsen Hot Pools Experience

     Relax and rejuvenate at the Onsen Hot Pools, enjoying private cedar-lined hot tubs with retractable roofs and stunning views of the Shotover River canyon. A perfect way to unwind after your adventure-filled trip.

     162 Arthurs Point Rd, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand~$150
     RelaxationSpaScenic
   • 18:30 - 20:00Eating

     Farewell Dinner at Amisfield Bistro

     Enjoy a sophisticated farewell dinner at Amisfield Bistro, a renowned winery and restaurant offering a 'Trust the Chef' degustation menu paired with their award-winning wines. A memorable culinary experience.

     10 Lake Hayes Rd, Frankton, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand~$200
     Fine DiningWineryDegustation
7. 7

   Day 7 — Queenstown, New Zealand

   5 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at hotel

     Enjoy your final breakfast in Queenstown at the hotel. Savor the last moments of your New Zealand adventure with a relaxed meal.

     Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$50
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 09:30 - 10:30Exploration

     Souvenir Shopping & Lakeside Stroll

     Take a leisurely stroll through Queenstown's charming streets, browsing for last-minute souvenirs and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Walk along the picturesque lakeside, soaking in the stunning views one last time.

     Queenstown Mall, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand~$100
     ShoppingLakesideLeisure
   • 11:30 - 13:00Travel

     Departure from Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

     Depart from Queenstown Airport, concluding your incredible 7-day adventure through New Zealand's South Island. Carry unforgettable memories of thrilling experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

     Queenstown Airport (ZQN), Sir Henry Wigley Dr, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
     DepartureAirport

Where to Stay

• Queenstown, New Zealand

  Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

  $280.0 / night4 nights4.3
  Central location for easy access to activitiesLakeside viewsComfortable and modern amenities
• Te Anau, New Zealand

  Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

  $250.0 / night2 nights4.2
  Proximity to Milford Sound toursLakefront location with great viewsComfortable and well-equipped rooms
• Queenstown, New Zealand

  Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

  $280.0 / night1 nights4.3
  Consistent quality and comfortFamiliar central locationExcellent amenities for relaxation