from
AUD
4299
Embark on an unforgettable 16-day adventure through New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and rich Māori culture.
From Christchurch to Auckland, explore golden beaches, majestic mountains, and surreal geothermal wonders. Highlights include a Māori cultural night with a traditional hāngī meal, learning the haka and poi dances, and carving your own pounamu (greenstone) pendant in Franz Josef. Optional excursions to Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, Tongariro Crossing, and Milford Sound offer additional adventures.
Includes
- Explore North & South Islands
- Starts Christchurch, ends Auckland
- Daily breakfast included
- Vegetarian-friendly meals
- Visit Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Experience Māori culture
- Milford Sound cruise included
- Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Franz Josef glacier visit
- Explore Queenstown activities
- Golden beaches at Abel Tasman
- Small group tour experience
- Trip length: 16 Days
- Group size: Max 24
- Start: Christchurch
- End: Auckland
- Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
- Sleep: Hostel
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Itinerary
See MapDAY 1 – CHRISTCHURCH TO MACKENZIE COUNTRY
Welcome to your New Zealand Adventure! This morning we’ll explore iconic downtown Christchurch and your guide will show you the cool and creative ways the city is being rebuilt after the life-changing 2011 earthquake here. Christchurch folk are an innovative and creative bunch – the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard, is totally inspirational. After lunch, we leave the city behind and head for Lake Tekapo. The lake’s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer’s dream come true. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd stands right at the water’s edge, proving that small is definitely beautiful. Tekapo has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve, and the super clear skies make it the best place in New Zealand to see the stars and galaxies on a clear night. Sit back, relax and enjoy.
DAY 2 – MACKENZIE COUNTRY TO QUEENSTOWN
This morning, if you’re feeling energetic, hike up to the summit of Mt John. With awesome views of the Southern Alps, you’ll feel on top of the world. Speaking of views, today’s scenic drive to Queenstown is a show-stopper. From the golden tussocklands of Mackenzie Country – where epic battles of Return of the King were filmed – to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, it’s like you’re driving into a postcard. We’ll pause for lots of photo stops en route to give your camera a workout, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge. This also happens to be the World Home of Bungy. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, avid hiker, wine taster, or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone. With two nights here, get ready – this town certainly knows how to live life to the max!
DAY 3 – QUEENSTOWN
With a full day in Queenstown, let’s work on that bucket list! There are heaps of options to choose from: paragliding over the lake, hiking trails, bungy jumping, horse riding through Lord of the Rings scenery, or swinging through a canyon. For scenery lovers, Milford Sound is a must-see. Once on the Sound, sail beneath thundering waterfalls and towering cliffs, understanding why some call it the “8th Wonder of the World.” Tonight, choose from around 40 bars to share your adventures or party the night away.
DAY 4 – QUEENSTOWN TO WANAKA
One last morning in Queenstown to work on that bucket list. What will it be today – a canyoning experience, a Lord of the Rings 4x4 safari, or a jet boat ride along the Shotover River? After the excitement of Queenstown, this afternoon is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown’s quieter little sister, a mere one-hour drive away. On the way, we’ll stop at charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with old-world character. Wanaka’s towering peaks and glacial blue lake make it one of New Zealand’s most beautiful mountain towns.
DAY 5 – WANAKA TO FRANZ JOSEF
This morning, explore Wanaka with optional activities like skydiving, a lake cruise, or scenic short walks. The journey to Franz Josef is stunning. From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won’t want to nap on the bus. Along the way, we’ll stop at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka for a top lakeside lookout. Franz Josef’s UNESCO World Heritage area, famous for its glacier, is just 5 kilometres from town, begging to be explored tomorrow.
DAY 6 – FRANZ JOSEF
Franz Josef’s setting, with Aoraki/Mount Cook twinkling behind the glaciers, is breathtaking. Included in your tour today is the chance to carve your own pounamu pendant at a local gallery. Explore Franz Josef Glacier with options like a scenic helicopter flight, glacier hiking, or kayaking on a glacial lake. Skydiving and karaoke are also on the cards for those seeking extra adventure.
DAY 7 – FRANZ JOSEF TO CHRISTCHURCH
After breakfast, we head along the West Coast, a rugged landscape of rainforest and ocean views. We’ll stop at Hokitika to visit a greenstone factory and possibly the National Kiwi Centre. Then, we cross the Southern Alps on the stunning TranzAlpine Train, arriving in Christchurch by 6:30pm.
DAY 8 – CHRISTCHURCH TO KAIKŌURA
You can have a lie-in this morning if you want! There is also a chance to explore the city and do some shopping before we leave for Kaikōura. Rugged snowcapped mountains drop right down to the beach in Kaikōura, making it an incredible backdrop to experience the famous sea life in the area. There’s something for every traveler in Kaikōura: go giant whale watching, fishing, kayaking, or encounter hundreds of friendly and curious wild dolphins in the bright blue water. Be sure to have your camera ready for a visit to the fur seal colonies (there may even be baby seals!) and for all the great sea life you’re going to spot.
DAY 9 – KAIKŌURA TO WELLINGTON
After kicking off the morning with some final exploration of Kaikōura, we head north. Upon arriving in Picton, there is a short break to explore the port and get something to eat before catching the ferry to Wellington. Sailing the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands is one of New Zealand’s iconic activities. Enjoy views of the Marlborough Sounds and the city skyline of New Zealand’s capital during the ferry ride. Wellington’s bars and eateries are a paradise for craft beer lovers – you’ll be spoilt for choice tonight!
DAY 10 – WELLINGTON TO TAUPŌ
In the morning, your tour guide will give you a tour of Wellington city and the surrounding bays. This can include a trip to Weta Workshop, where films like Lord of the Rings have been made. We may also visit the parliament buildings, cable car, and Mount Victoria. On the way to Taupō, we drive along the Desert Road through the Rangipo Desert, passing Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings. We arrive at the accommodation by evening. With a full day to explore Taupō tomorrow, feel free to relax at the hostel or enjoy the town’s nightlife.
DAY 11 – TAUPŌ
A full day in Taupō offers peaceful lakeside tranquility or adrenaline-filled adventures. For many, the ultimate experience is the Tongariro Crossing, one of the top 10 full-day hikes in the world. The trek boasts emerald lakes, venting steam, and craters. Alternatively, enjoy a boat trip to view Māori rock carvings or soak in Spa Park’s hot pools. However you choose to spend today, it’s sure to be unforgettable.
DAY 12 – TAUPŌ TO MURUPARA
After our morning in Taupō, we head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara, a living Māori village. Experience a tribal tour led by a village elder, learn the haka, and weave your dinner plate using flax. Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal, cooked in an underground oven. The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.
DAY 13 – MURUPARA TO ROTORUA
Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. On the way, we stop at one of its extraordinary geyserlands and thermal parks. This evening, we visit Te Puia, where you can explore the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, see native kiwi birds, and learn about Māori culture.
DAY 14 – ROTORUA
Today is a free day to explore Rotorua. Optional activities include white water rafting, zip-lining, zorbing, or kayaking on Lake Rotoiti. For relaxation, visit geothermal hot pools or explore Kuirau Park’s mud pools. Let your guide help plan your day!
DAY 15 – ROTORUA TO COROMANDEL
Today, we leave Rotorua behind for the Coromandel. On the way, we visit Hobbiton Movie Set, where a guided tour reveals the magic of Middle-earth. Later, enjoy a walk to Cathedral Cove, known for its stunning beaches and rock formations.
DAY 16 – COROMANDEL TO AUCKLAND
We conclude our adventure with a visit to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand. Finally, we head to Auckland, the ‘City of Sails,’ arriving in the late afternoon. Your tour ends here, but your memories will last forever!
