New Zealand in 6 Days: 4 Recommended 6-day Itineraries to New Zealand
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New Zealand 6-day Itinerary Options
Need some ideas for what to see and do on your New Zealand trip? Here are our top four New Zealand 6-day itinerary plans for you.
Itinerary #1: Hidden Gems of the South Island
| Overview | Activity | |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Nelson and explore the local arts and crafts scene | Arrival |
| Day 2 | Explore the Golden Bay and Farewell Spit | Exploration |
| Day 3 | Drive to Picton and explore the Marlborough Sounds | Scenic drive |
| Day 4 | Travel to Hanmer Springs, a small alpine village known for its thermal pools | Village visits |
| Day 5 | Enjoy a Kaikoura and whale-watching tour | Whale-watching |
| Day 6 | Head to Akaroa, a charming French-inspired village | Departure |
This 6-day South Island New Zealand itinerary takes you on a journey that uncovers off-the-beaten-track treasures. Begin your adventure in Nelson and the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Te Waikoropupu Springs and the remote sandbar of Farewell Spit, teeming with birdlife and natural wonders. Discover the serene beauty of the Marlborough Sounds, hike the scenic Queen Charlotte Track, and go whale-watching on the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. From secluded beaches and remote mountain trails to charming villages and eco-lodges, this 6-day New Zealand trip is ideal if you want tranquility and unique experiences away from the crowds.
Customize any New Zealand tour to create your own itinerary.
Itinerary #2: Queenstown Uncovered
| Overview | Activity | |
| Day 1 | Start your trip in Queenstown and take a scenic gondola ride up Bob's Peak | Arrival |
| Day 2 | Enjoy jet boating and explore the hidden canyons in Queenstown. | Outdoor activity |
| Day 3 | Head to The Remarkables for a scenic hike with panoramic views | Hiking |
| Day 4 | Explore Arrowtown and Gibbston Valley | Exploration |
| Day 5 | Explore Fiordland National Park | National park exploration |
| Day 6 | Bid farewell to New Zealand | Departure |
Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, this 6-day itinerary based in Queenstown balances high-adrenaline activities with the discovery of lesser-known gems. Start with a scenic gondola ride up Bob's Peak, experience the exhilaration of jet boating on the Shotover River, and an adventurous canyoning tour through hidden waterfalls. Hike the Remarkables for breathtaking vistas, discover the historic charm of Arrowtown, and indulge in wine tastings at boutique wineries in Gibbston Valley. Go kayaking on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park and explore the Dart River and the picturesque area of Paradise in Glenorchy.
Itinerary #3: Urban Oasis
| Overview | Activity | |
| Day 1 | Start your trip in Auckland and explore the Viaduct Harbor. | Arrival |
| Day 2 | Take a ferry to Waiheke Island. | Ferry ride |
| Day 3 | Enjoy the West Coast Beaches and the Waitakere Ranges. | Beach exploration |
| Day 4 | Explore the Matakana and Tawharanui Regional Park. | Exploration |
| Day 5 | Discover the North Shore's beautiful beaches, including Takapuna and Devonport. | Beach exploration |
| Day 6 | Rangitoto Island and return to Auckland. | Departure |
Explore the vibrant urban culture of Auckland over six days. This fascinating tour offers a mix of city adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic escapes to nearby hidden gems, showcasing the very best of New Zealand's largest city. Stroll around the city at your own pace, take a ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tastings and beach relaxation, and head to the Waitakere Ranges for forest hikes. Explore Matakana’s farmers' market, unwind at Tawharanui Regional Park, and discover Auckland’s North Shore. Hike to the summit of Rangitoto Island’s volcanic cone and explore lava caves. Discover the multifaceted allure of Auckland and its lesser-known treasures on this intriguing 6-day Auckland itinerary.
Itinerary #4: Nature and Culture on the South Island
| Overview | Activity | |
| Day 1 | Start your trip in Christchurch and drive to the Banks Peninsula. | Arrival |
| Day 2 | Explore the Arthur’s Pass National Park and Castle Hill. | Exploration |
| Day 3 | Explore the Lake Tekapo and Aorak and Mount Cook | Exploration |
| Day 4 | Travel to Dunedin and visit the Otago Peninsula | Transfer |
| Day 5 | Explore the Catlins Coast | Exploration |
| Day 6 | Take a ferry to Stewart Island, explore Ulva Island, and return to Invercargill | Ferry ride and departure |
Discover natural beauty and cultural heritage with an incredible 6-day South Island New Zealand itinerary. Begin in Christchurch and journey to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula for a cultural tour. Visit Arthur’s Pass National Park and Castle Hill, explore Lake Tekapo, and enjoy a glacier tour on Mount Cook. Discover Dunedin’s historic city center, visit the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula, and journey along the Catlins Coast. End your trip with visits to Stewart and Ulva Islands before returning to Invercargill.
Planning your 6-day Itinerary to New Zealand?
If you want to spend 6 days in New Zealand, our four unique itineraries are a great place to start. Alternatively, you can create your own customized trip to New Zealand with the help of our local travel experts. For more New Zealand 6-day itinerary options, check out our guide on how many days to spend in New Zealand. Our article on the best time to visit New Zealand will also come in handy.
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