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New Zealand in 13 Days: 4 Recommended 13-Day Itineraries to New Zealand

Hike Roys Peak with floggy clouds while spending 13 days in New Zealand.
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  • Catherine. E
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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 13-Day Itinerary Options

Discovering New Zealand in 13 days offers adventure enthusiasts a chance to fully explore what the country has to offer. Below are four meticulously curated itineraries, each offering a unique exploration through New Zealand’s diverse terrains.

Itinerary #1: Northern Highlights and Geothermal Wonders

Enjoy Auckland's skyline during a 13-day tour of New Zealand.
Visit Auckland when the weather is great for sightseeing.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Auckland, explore the vibrant cityscape Arrival Auckland
Day 2 Visit Waiheke Island for wine tasting Wine tasting Auckland
Day 3 Travel to Rotorua, and explore its geothermal parks Geothermal site tour Rotorua
Day 4 Experience Māori culture at Whakarewarewa Village Culture Rotorua
Day 5 Head to Waitomo, discover the glowworm caves Cave visit Waitomo
Day 6 Drive to Taupo, enjoy adventure sports Adventure sports Taupo
Day 7 Visit Tongariro National Park for hiking Hiking Tongariro
Day 8 Explore Napier's Art Deco architecture Architecture Napier
Day 9 Head to Wellington, explore the capital city City sightseeing Wellington
Day 10 Take a ferry to Picton, enjoy a scenic journey Ferry ride Picton
Day 11 Explore Marlborough Sounds by kayak Kayaking Picton
Day 12 Visit Nelson for its art and craft scene Art tour Nelson
Day 13 Return to Auckland for departure Departure  

Embark on a journey through New Zealand's North Island, known for its geothermal landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Begin in Auckland, where you'll discover the city's vibrant energy before heading to Waiheke Island for tranquil wine tastings. Delve into the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and capture the mesmerizing glowworm caves of Waitomo. Experience adventure sports in Taupo, explore the picturesque Tongariro National Park, and be captivated by Napier's Art Deco charm. The crossing from Wellington to Picton offers stunning ocean views, leading to Marlborough Sounds and Nelson’s artistic appeal. This itinerary perfectly blends adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable 13 days in New Zealand. See all tours in New Zealand.

Itinerary #2: Southern Splendor and Coastal Charms

Water fountain at the entrance of the botanic garden in Christchurch.
Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens: A lush, 21-hectare sanctuary featuring diverse flora, serene landscapes, and vibrant seasonal displays.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Christchurch, explore the city's gardens Arrival Christchurch
Day 2 Travel to Lake Tekapo for stunning night skies Stargazing Lake Tekapo
Day 3 Visit Mount Cook National Park for hiking Hiking Mount Cook
Day 4 Head to Queenstown, experience adventure sports Adventure Queenstown
Day 5 Take a day trip to Milford Sound, cruise its waters Scenic cruise Queenstown
Day 6 Explore Arrowtown's historic streets History Arrowtown
Day 7 Travel to Dunedin for its unique architecture Architecture Dunedin
Day 8 Visit the Otago Peninsula and spot wildlife Wildlife spotting Dunedin
Day 9 Drive to Invercargill, gateway to the South City sightseeing Invercargill
Day 10 Experience Stewart Island, visit Rakiura National Park Park visit Stewart Island
Day 11 Head to Te Anau, explore the glowworm caves Cave Te Anau
Day 12 Return to Christchurch, relax in Hagley Park Park relaxation Christchurch
Day 13 End your trip in Christchurch Departure  

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey through New Zealand's South Island, beginning in Christchurch, where you'll witness beautiful gardens before heading to Lake Tekapo for celestial stargazing. Mount Cook National Park offers challenging yet rewarding hiking trails, leading to the adrenaline-pumping activities of Queenstown. Discover the spectacular Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, then delve into Arrowtown’s gold rush history before appreciating the architectural beauty of Dunedin. Spot unique wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, explore the southern charm of Invercargill, and be captivated by Stewart Island's natural wonders. Your voyage concludes in the vibrant city of Christchurch. Consider adding activities in Queenstown with various trips to Queenstown for more adventurous options.

Itinerary #3: Coastal Adventures and Cultural Insights

A red cable car in Wellington, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand.
Take a ride in the iconic Wellington Cable Car from the terminal in the Lambton Quay shopping district to sightsee the city's major landmarks.
Colorful hot spring in Rotorua in New Zealand.
Visit the hot springs on Rotorua for a relaxing experience.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Wellington, tour the Te Papa Museum Museum visit Wellington
Day 2 Travel to Martinborough, enjoy wine tours Wine tasting Martinborough
Day 3 Visit Napier for its stunning Art Deco buildings Architecture Napier
Day 4 Explore the beaches of the Gisborne region Beach relaxation Gisborne
Day 5 Head to Tauranga, discover Mount Maunganui Hiking Tauranga
Day 6 Visit Rotorua, experience geothermal wonders Geothermal site visit Rotorua
Day 7 Travel to Whakatane, embark on a White Island tour Volcano tour Whakatane
Day 8 Explore Coromandel Peninsula, visit Hot Water Beach Beach exploration Coromandel
Day 9 Journey to Auckland, visit the Sky Tower City sightseeing Auckland
Day 10 Head to the Bay of Islands, go on a sailing cruise Cruise Bay of Islands
Day 11 Visit Hokianga, discover its historic sites History Hokianga
Day 12 Return to Auckland and shop and dine Leisure Auckland
Day 13 Depart from Auckland Departure  

Travel through the vibrant North Island of New Zealand with a focus on coastal activities and cultural experiences. Begin in Wellington with a journey through its rich cultural offerings such as the Te Papa Museum. Enjoy the vineyards of Martinborough, followed by Napier's spectacular Art Deco architecture. Experience the beaches of Gisborne and hike Mount Maunganui in Tauranga. The geothermal wonders of Rotorua and a memorable volcano tour at White Island provide breathtaking natural scenery. Explore Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula and the bustling hub of Auckland before indulging in the aquatic beauty of the Bay of Islands. Your expedition concludes in Hokianga with visits to historical sites before heading back to Auckland. Don’t miss the chance to add a trip to Auckland as part of your adventure.

Itinerary #4: The Ultimate New Zealand Wildlife Expedition

Aerial view of Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel Peninsula.
Take a speedboat tot the Cathedral Cove that specially comes alive during summer time.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Auckland, visit the Auckland Zoo Arrival Auckland
Day 2 Travel to Northland, explore Waipoua Forest Nature walk Northland
Day 3 Head to the Bay of Islands, enjoy dolphin-watching Dolphin cruise Bay of Islands
Day 4 Visit Cape Reinga, spot native wildlife Wildlife spotting Cape Reinga
Day 5 Travel to the Coromandel Peninsula, visit Cathedral Cove Coastal exploration Coromandel
Day 6 Discover Rotorua's geothermal hot spots Geothermal exploration Rotorua
Day 7 Explore Taupo, visit Huka Falls and its surroundings Waterfall visit Taupo
Day 8 Journey to Wellington, explore Zealandia ecosanctuary Eco tour Wellington
Day 9 Travel to Marlborough, join a guided birdwatching tour Birdwatching Marlborough
Day 10 Head to Nelson Lakes National Park for hiking and wildlife Hiking Nelson Lakes
Day 11 Drive to Kaikoura, embark on a whale-watching tour Whale watching Kaikoura
Day 12 Return to Christchurch, explore the Botanic Gardens Gardens visit Christchurch
Day 13 Finish your tour in Christchurch. Departure  

Embark on a wildlife adventure in New Zealand's pristine landscapes, beginning with the vibrant city of Auckland and a visit to the renowned Auckland Zoo. Travel north to the ancient Waipoua Forest in Northland and delight in the playful dolphins in the Bay of Islands. Spot rare wildlife at Cape Reinga, discover the breathtaking Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel Peninsula, and revel in Rotorua's natural wonders. Venture to Wellington’s Zealandia ecosanctuary, and proceed to Marlborough for an immersive birdwatching experience. Witness the abundant wildlife at Nelson Lakes and be amazed by Kaikoura's whale sightings before unwinding in Christchurch. Enhance your journey with an exciting safari in Nelson. Describe your ideal 13-day holiday for a customized trip to New Zealand.

Planning a 13-day Itinerary of New Zealand?

If you're eager to explore the abundant adventures that New Zealand offers in 13 days, consider reaching out to our travel experts for a tailor-made New Zealand itinerary that aligns perfectly with your interests. Our comprehensive guide on the best time to visit New Zealand can help you choose the ideal season for your trip. For more ideas, you may find our guides on how many days to spend in New Zealand insightful, including options for 12-day tours or two-week adventures.

Other related articles:
10 days in New Zealand
14 days in New Zealand
Group tours to 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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