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New Zealand in 10 Days: 4 Recommended 10-day Itineraries to New Zealand

Get stunning view of Lake Wanaka while spending 10 days in New Zealand.
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I did the 17 day New Zealand adventure it was my first group tour and my leader Danny...” Read More

New Zealand 10-day Itinerary Options

Check out our New Zealand 10-day itinerary plans below and discover all the must-see sights and experiences if you have just over a week to explore this beautiful country. From the rolling hills and fjords of the South Island to the geothermal wonders and vibrant cities of the North Island, a 10-day journey offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation on your trip to New Zealand.

Itinerary #1: Guided Northern Trail Explorer

Ride the Wellington cable car on your 10 days in New Zealand.
Riding the Wellington cable car is the most efficient way to sightsee the city in a short span of time.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Welcome to Auckland; settle in and get ready to explore New Zealand. Arrival
Day 2 Head to Coromandel and get ready to enjoy sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Beach activities
Day 3 Explore the laid-back surf town of Raglan. Exploration
Day 4 Depart for Rotorua, with stops at Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set along the way. Cave exploration
Day 5 Spend the day ziplining through the forest before experiencing a unique cultural experience in Maori village. Village exploration
Day 6 Tour Rotorua before heading to the lakeside town of Taupo. Transfer
Day 7  Take on one of the many adventure sports in Taupo. Outdoor activity
Day 8  Head to the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington. Transfer
Day 9 Spend the day in Wellington exploring the sights. Exploration
Day 10 Say goodbye to New Zealand. Departure

This 10-day journey offers a comprehensive exploration of New Zealand's North Island. Begin in vibrant Auckland before heading to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. Experience the laid-back surf culture in Raglan, then venture into the magical world of Hobbiton. In Rotorua, immerse yourself in Maori culture and witness geothermal wonders. Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Taupo and partake in thrilling adventure sports. Conclude your trip in Wellington, where you'll discover the capital's rich culture, from the Te Papa Museum to the bustling Cuba Street. This itinerary perfectly balances urban experiences, natural wonders, and cultural immersion. See all 10-day New Zealand tours.

Itinerary #2: Luxe Glamping and Boutique Escape

Waewaetorea Passage in the Bay of Islands.
Cruise through the scenic Waewaetorea Passage in the Bay of Islands.
Tourists skiing in the Coronet Peak ski resort of Queenstown.
If visiting New Zealand during winter, go skiing in the Coronet Peak ski resort of Queenstown.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Start your journey by flying to Kerikeri to experience luxury glamping Arrival and camping
Day 2 Enjoy the glistening waters of the Bay of Islands on a catamaran cruise Cruise tour
Day 3 Enjoy a free day exploring the Takou River Leisure day
Day 4 Time to switch from luxury glamping to a boutique hotel in Christchurch Glamping
Day 5 Head to Hokitika where you will be glamping once again in the serene ancient forest Glamping and exploration
Day 6 Explore the Arahua with a private guide Bevan Climo, the son of a paramount chief of the Hokitika region Exploration
Day 7  Enjoy an unplanned day in the Hotikaka region today Leisure day
Day 8  Tour Queenstown and unwind in your five-star boutique hotel Exploration
Day 9 Embark on a helicopter ride over Fiordland National Park, landing at Milford Sound and taking a cruise around the serene valley Helicopter ride
Day 10  It is time to head home after a memorable New Zealand trip Departure

Looking for New Zealand 10-day itinerary options for romantic getaway? This itinerary is perfect for your romantic escape. Embark on an unforgettable romantic journey across New Zealand in 10 days . Start with luxury glamping in the Bay of Islands, cruising its azure waters, and exploring the tranquil Takou River. Transition to the South Island next. Stay in boutique accommodations in Christchurch, and experience the ancient forests of Hokitika through guided tours and glamping. In Queenstown, indulge in five-star luxury and embark on a breathtaking helicopter ride over Fiordland National Park, culminating in a serene Milford Sound cruise. This itinerary perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and luxury, offering couples a diverse and intimate experience of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural richness.

Itinerary #3: Adrenaline Junkie's Paradise

Colorful hot spring in Rotorua in New Zealand.
Visit the hot springs in Rotorua for a relaxing experience.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Queenstown, take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River Arrival and boat ride
Day 2 Bungee jump at the Kawarau Bridge, followed by a canyon swing Bungee jump
Day 3 Skydive over Lake Wakatipu, evening luge rides with panoramic views Exploration
Day 4 White water raft on the Rangitata River en route to Christchurch Water rafting
Day 5 Try zorbing in Rotorua, then relax in geothermal hot pools Relaxation
Day 6 Mountain bike through Whakarewarewa Forest, evening Maori cultural show Mountain biking
Day 7  Blackwater raft through glowworm caves in Waitomo Rafting
Day 8  Sail an America's Cup yacht in Auckland Harbour Cruise tour
Day 9 Depart from Auckland after a final harbor bridge climb Exploration
Day 10  It is time to head home after a memorable New Zealand trip Departure

This action-packed 10-day New Zealand itinerary is designed for thrill-seekers looking to experience New Zealand's most exhilarating activities. From the adventure capital of Queenstown to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, you'll encounter a diverse range of heart-pumping experiences. Bungee jump, skydive, and white water raft amidst stunning landscapes. Explore glowworm caves, sail on world-class yachts, and immerse yourself in Maori culture. This tour showcases New Zealand's natural beauty while satisfying your craving for adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Itinerary #4: Nature Lover's Odyssey

Cruise under the blue sky in Milford Sound.
Get on a cruise in Milford Sound and be mesmerized by nature.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Land in Christchurch and visit the International Antarctic Centre Arrival
Day 2 Drive to Lake Tekapo then hike in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Scenic drive
Day 3 Hike in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Hiking
Day 4 White water raft on the Rangitata River en route to Christchurch Water rafting
Day 5 Explore the Catlins Coast, hike to McLean Falls Hiking
Day 6  Visit Stewart Island, embark on a kiwi-spotting night walk Walking tour
Day 7  Cruise Milford Sound, overnight in Te Anau Cruise tour
Day 8  Hike part of the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park Hiking
Day 9 Travel to Franz Josef, take a glacier valley walk Walking tour
Day 10 Wine taste in Marlborough before departing from Blenheim Departure

This comprehensive nature-focused itinerary takes you through the South Island's most spectacular landscapes. From the starry skies of Lake Tekapo to the alpine beauty of Mount Cook, you'll experience New Zealand's diverse ecosystems. Encounter unique wildlife in Dunedin and Stewart Island, marvel at the majestic Milford Sound, and explore ancient glaciers. Hike through native forests, witness geological wonders, and conclude with whale watching and wine tasting. This journey offers an in-depth exploration of New Zealand's natural treasures, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Planning 10-day Itinerary of New Zealand

New Zealand is a remarkable country with incredible experiences to be had. A 10-day New Zealand trip is enough to get a true feel for the country. Traveling with a local expert, you will get a unique and enriching experience. Book one of our New Zealand tours to get a deeper and meaningful experience. You can also get in touch with our local travel specialists to create a customized trip to New Zealand

If you are still wondering how many days to allocate for your trip, check out our article on how many days to spend in New Zealand. For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit New Zealand.

Other related articles:
One week in New Zealand
12 days in New Zealand
2 weeks in New Zealand

Plan a trip to New ZealandWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to New Zealand.
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