6 Days in New Zealand - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: New Zealand's North Island

This six-day itinerary takes you on an adventure around the North Island's top sights and attractions, such as Mount Eden in Auckland, Hobbiton in Matamata, Huka Falls in Taupo, and Tongariro National Park.

Begin the trip in Auckland to see the city's beautiful skyline from Mount Eden and jump on a tram to explore the Wynyard Quarter. From here, you'll head south, first to Matamata to spend the afternoon learning all about Middle-earth in "Hobbiton," and then visit Rotorua to enjoy the city's geothermal activity at Wai-O-Tapu and Hells Gate Geothermal Park. Soak in the hot pools of Waikite Valley or Kerosene Creek, then return to Rotorua for the night.

Day 4 begins with a visit to the mighty Huka Falls, one of the most stunning natural attractions in New Zealand. Visit Shawn the Prawn at Huka Prawn Park, then explore the Craters of the Moon and cruise on Lake Taupo's scenic waters in the evening. The following day, embark on a hiking trip along the 12-mile (19-km) Tongariro Alpine Crossing to see Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe up close. Make your way back to Auckland on Day 6 to conclude your North Island experience. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Mini South Island Adventure

This mini South Island adventure offers plenty of opportunities to explore New Zealand's adventure capital: Queenstown. Plus, embark on a cruise of Milford Sound and see some of the country's most iconic natural landmarks.

Spend three days and three nights in Queenstown and explore the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu, take a quick boat tour of the Shotover River Canyon, and indulge in the culinary delights of the popular Fergburger. Then, head off on a 4WD Glenorchy safari to see the most breathtaking sights of the Southern Alps. You'll also get to hop on a helicopter flight over Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, two iconic glaciers. From Queenstown, venture to Fiordland National Park and one of New Zealand's most coveted attractions, Milford Sound.

Enjoy a cruise along the sound and admire the sights of Lady Elizabeth Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and the towering Mitre Peak before picking up a rental car to drive to Lake Tekapo. If you're feeling brave, have a go at the Kawarau Bungy! Drive the Lindis Pass to reach the quaint towns of Twizel and Omarama, known for their stargazing opportunities at the Mt. John Observatory. Head to Christchurch the following day and stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or visit the International Antarctic Centre and say your goodbyes to New Zealand on your sixth and final day. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Christchurch to Queenstown Wine & Adventure Tour

Experience New Zealand's cultural, culinary, and creative attractions with this six-day holiday that starts in Christchurch and takes you to North Canterbury's wine country, Mt. Cook National Park, the Remarkables mountain range, and the vineyards of Central Otago.

Kick off your adventure in Christchurch and spend the first day exploring the city's sights, such as the Botanic Gardens and the Canterbury Museum. Visit four wineries in North Canterbury and enjoy your wine pairings with a spot of lunch. Pick up your rental car and venture through Geraldine, Burkes Pass, and Lake Tekapo to arrive at the world-renowned Mount Cook National Park. Spend the night at Mount Cook Village and enjoy bountiful stargazing opportunities and views of the picturesque mountain.

Leaving the national park, head toward Queenstown and participate in adrenaline-fuelled activities such as bungee jumping and the Shotover Jet Canyon boat ride. Then board the Skyline Gondola to take in sweeping views across Queenstown and the neighboring Remarkables mountain range, Coronet Peak, and Lake Wakatipu. Indulge in more wine tasting on your last full day as you explore the three wine regions of Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell in Central Otago, and then bid a fond farewell to New Zealand as you depart from Queenstown Airport. Learn more

Itinerary #4: New Zealand's North & South Islands: Culture, Nature & Adventure

On this six-day itinerary around New Zealand's North and South Islands, you'll learn about the country's Māori culture at Te Pā Tū, explore the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu in Rotorua, and embark on a journey to the adventure capital of the world: Queenstown. 

Your trip begins in the city of Auckland. You'll head to the top of the Sky Tower for fantastic city views, hike up to Mount Eden, or take a ferry trip to Waiheke Island, where you can indulge in some of the finest food and wine-tasting experiences in the country. Your second day will begin with a visit to Middle-earth as you spend a few hours exploring the faux village of "Hobbiton." Make your way to Rotorua and visit the stinky Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. You'll also visit Te Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village) to learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the Māori people.

On Day 4, fly to Queenstown and choose from a range of activities, such as jet boating on the Shotover River Canyon or bungee jumping in the adrenaline capital of the world. Alternatively, spend the evening relaxing in the soothing Onsen Hot Pools and then take a scenic flight or cruise in Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park the next day. Return to Queenstown to take in more of its unparalleled scenery, such as the Remarkables mountain range and the peaceful Lake Wakatipu. Learn more

More Great New Zealand itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to New Zealand? Take a look at these other New Zealand itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.