16 Day Auckland to Queenstown

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This 16 day trip travels from Auckland to Queenstown and is suited for couples and active travellers wanting beaches, mountains, lakes and varied activities. It includes walking, cycling and visits to Rotorua, Tongariro, Kaikoura, Aoraki/Mt Cook, Milford Sound and more across both islands.

Accommodation is shared pop-up tents with two hostel nights in Queenstown. The trip has a social outdoor atmosphere with group meals and time for walks, bike rides and optional activities. Inclusions feature meals, hikes, national parks, wine tasting, ferry crossing and travel by coach.

Includes

Auckland to Queenstown route
Camping in shared tents
Travel by coach vehicle
Meals included

Beaches and hot pools
Geothermal areas Rotorua
Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Milford Sound visit
Lakes mountains forests
Cycling and walking options
Large group tour style

Trip length: 16 Days
Group size: 12-21
Start: Auckland
End: Queenstown

Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
Sleep: Camping & Hostels
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

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Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

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AUCKLAND TO HOT WATER BEACH

Pickup locations:
7:45am Outside Haka House, 5 Turner Street, Auckland CBD
8:00am Outside Nesuto Stadium Hotel, 40 Beach Road, Auckland CBD

Welcome to the first day of your Flying Kiwi adventure! We’ll leave Auckland at 8am and drive south towards the Coromandel Peninsula. The Coromandel is a popular holiday spot for us Kiwi’s and it’s not hard to see why. With stunning white sandy beaches, dense fern forests and a rich history of both Maori and European settlement, the Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect place to start your trip!

We’ll arrive at our Hot Water Beach campsite, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Go for a walk along the beach once we’ve set up camp, and this evening we’ll enjoy our very first group dinner together.

Meals included: Dinner
Walks: Stunning coastal walk with views over the Pacific
Bike Rides: 8km scenic road cycling from Hahei Beach to Hot Water Beach camp

DAY 2 – HOT WATER BEACH

Today you have a full free day to spend relaxing or exploring. We’ll head to Hahei Beach where you can go for a walk along the shoreline or take a boat or kayak to see the iconic Cathedral Cove. Later, we’ll head back to Hot Water Beach, so-named because there is a unique geothermal reservoir of hot water under the sand. At low tide, we’ll grab our shovels and head down to dig our very own hot pools in the sand - the cheapest spa day ever!

Meals included: Breakfast
Walks: Stunning coastal walk with views over the Pacific
Bike rides: 8km scenic road cycling from Hahei Beach to Hot Water Beach camp

DAY 3 – HOT WATER BEACH TO ROTORUA

This morning after breakfast, we’ll make our way down to the southern end of the Coromandel Peninsula where we’ll stop at the historic Karangahake Gorge which offers great biking and hiking options through old mining relics. This stunning region combines the natural beauty of the area with some NZ history and is a must-see on the North Island.
Afterwards we’ll continue on to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity, adventure activities and cultural experiences. This evening we’ll set up camp and enjoy a group meal together.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Walks: Stroll through Karangahake Gorge & unique thermal landscapes in Rotorua
Bike rides: Karangahake Gorge
Optional Activities: Polynesian Spa, Te Puia

DAY 4 – ROTORUA

Today you have a full day to enjoy everything that Rotorua has to offer. There are heaps of optional activities in Rotorua and something for everyone. If you’re interested in adventure, we recommend the award winning Canopy Tours eco zipline tour, or go white water rafting down the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. If you’d prefer to relax, opt for a healing soak at the Polynesian spa, or if you’d like to explore the natural geothermal features of the area, there’s plenty of walks where you can see the activity for free. This evening, we recommend heading to the incredible Te Puia where you’ll learn about Maori culture, experience the breathtaking Haka and feast on a traditional Hangi meal.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks: Kuirau Park or the Whakarewarewa Forest to see the towering redwoods
Bike rides: Whakarewarewa Forest Loop (33 km)
Optional Activities: Zipline Canopy Tour, Rotorua Rafting

DAY 5 – ROTORUA TO NATIONAL PARK

We begin the day with a drive to visit Wai-o-Tapu bubbling mud, a unique experience not to be missed. Next we’ll stop at the mighty Huka Falls, an impressive waterfall found along the Waikato river. This is also our drop off point for those wanting to go skydiving! If you’re not going skydiving there’s a great bike ride to Spa Park along the river’s edge - be sure to stop off at the natural hot spring along the way or get an adrenaline buzz from the Taupo bungy which is conveniently located on your way into town. You’ll have some time in Taupo to grab some lunch and check out New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo, before we make our way to Tongariro National Park, where we’ll be spending the night.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks: Walks of various distances past dramatic waterfalls and around Lake Taupo
Bike rides: Huka Falls to Spa Park
Optional Activities: Skydiving, bungy, giant swing

DAY 6 – NATIONAL PARK TO FOXTON (TONGARIRO CROSSING DAY)

Voted one of the best day hikes in the world, today’s 19.4km walk takes in some of New Zealand’s most impressive and diverse landscapes. The challenging Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike covers a small section of the country’s oldest national park and dual UNESCO world heritage area, the Tongariro National Park. On a fine day you’ll be able to see Mt Ruapehu, the North Island’s highest peak at 2797 metres. You’ll also be able to see Mt Ngauruhoe, which featured in the Lord of the Rings movies as Mount Doom.
If you’d prefer not to do this hike, your Guide will take you to lesser known views and cycle options. After regrouping we continue to our beachside camp.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Walks: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Bike rides: Marton Sash & Door
Included Activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing (transfers only)

DAY 7 – FOXTON TO PICTON VIA WELLINGTON

This morning we’ll drive down to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Arrive early with time for Te Papa Museum, Mt Victoria or the red cable car. Later travel across the Cook Strait by ferry to the South Island through the Marlborough Sounds. Camp in Picton.

Meals included: Breakfast
Included Activities: Inter-Island ferry across the Cook Strait
Optional Activities: Te Papa (free), cable car

DAY 8 – PICTON - KAIKOURA

Depart Picton and travel through Marlborough to the coast with views of the Pacific and mountains. Stop for lunch and look for Fur Seals. In Kaikoura choose whale watching, sea kayaking, fishing, peninsula walk or cycling. Camp at the beach with seafood meal.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks: Kaikoura peninsula walk
Optional Activities: Whale watching, deep sea fishing

DAY 9 – KAIKOURA TO LAKE TEKAPO VIA CHRISTCHURCH

Optional swimming with dusky dolphins. Explore Kaikoura then continue to Christchurch. After welcoming new travellers we continue to Lake Tekapo for two nights.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks: Early walk around coastal camp
Bike rides: Lake Tekapo Lake Front
Optional Activities: Dolphin swimming or viewing

DAY 10 – LAKE TEKAPO

Free day. Hike Mt John Walkway for views of the Mackenzie Basin, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, play frisbee golf or relax. Evening options include hot pools or star gazing at Mt John Observatory.

Meals included: Breakfast
Walks: Mt John walkway, lakefront, Cowans Hill
Bike rides: Lake Tekapo Regional Park, A2O Cycle
Optional Activities: Hot Pools, Star Gazing
Cabin upgrades: Yes – subject to availability

DAY 11 – LAKE TEKAPO TO OAMARU VIA AORAKI/MT COOK

Travel to Aoraki/Mt Cook and hike the Hooker Valley track with swing bridges, mountain views and glacial lake. Continue to Oamaru near Moeraki Boulders. Evening walk for Pacific Ocean views and penguin sightings.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Walks: Hooker Valley, Oamaru precinct
Bike rides: 13 km Alps2Ocean trail
Optional Activities: Scenic flights, Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Oamaru Penguin Colony
Cabin upgrades: Yes – subject to availability

DAY 12 – OAMARU TO TE ANAU

Walk Moeraki Boulders (tide dependent). Visit Dunedin, see wildlife and the steepest street. Continue to Te Anau by the lakeside. Bike ride or walk to Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Optional glowworm caves tour.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks: Steepest street, Dunedin city
Bike rides: Lake Te Anau Lakefront Cycle Upukerora Trail (5km+)
Optional Activities: Glowworm caves tour & boat ride

DAY 13 – FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK

Travel to Milford Sound, carved by glaciers. Optional cruise with waterfalls, peaks and wildlife such as penguins, dolphins, seals and whales. Return to Te Anau. Drop off hikers for the Routeburn Track with lakes, waterfalls and forest.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Walks: Short walks from camp
Bike rides: Lake to Lake Te Anau trail, Lakefront Upukerora trail
Optional Activities: Milford Sound Cruise, glowworm caves tour & boat ride

DAY 14 – TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN

Morning bike ride. Travel along the Devil’s Staircase to Queenstown. Walks include Routeburn Track access with drop-off.

Meals included: Breakfast
Walks: Routeburn Track
Optional Activities: Various

DAY 15 – QUEENSTOWN

Full free day. Evening dine-out option (own cost). Walks and bike rides around Queenstown.

Meals included: Breakfast
Walks: Queenstown walks, Ben Lomond
Bike rides: Lake Wakatipu trail, Queenstown trail
Optional Activities: Various

DAY 16 – DEPART QUEENSTOWN

A last chance to enjoy Queenstown before finishing the tour.

Meals included: Breakfast

Includes

Transport by purpose-built camping coach, 15 nights shared tent accommodation, two hostel nights, 27 meals, sports equipment, free hikes, national park access, Marlborough wine tasting, Cook Strait ferry crossing.

Bring

Camera
Hiking Clothes
Smile

Notes

Two hostel nights in Queenstown. Trip ends in Queenstown with flights and buses available. Children 12–15 must travel with a parent/guardian and receive 15% off. Ages 16–17 may travel alone with a signed consent form. Optional costs: Bike hire NZD480, single tent upgrade NZD320, sleeping bag hire NZD85. Agent notes: bike hire, single upgrade and sleeping bag hire are non-commissionable.

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what to bring

What to Bring for Your New Zealand Adventure

Luggage

• Suitcase or Backpack: Choose what you’re comfortable with, as long as it’s under 15kg (33lbs) and easy to carry/load yourself.
• Day Pack: Essential for hikes and day trips.

Clothing Essentials

   •   Comfortable Walking Shoes: Broken-in and sturdy; hiking boots optional for tougher trails.
   •   Rain/Waterproof Jacket: Lightweight and essential for unpredictable weather.
   •   Layered Clothing: Include lightweight merino layers for temperature versatility.
   •   Warm Jumper or Hoodie: For non-rainy, cooler days.
   •   Non-Cotton Long Pants: Fast-drying options like hiking pants or leggings.
   •    Jeans: Suitable for casual use.
   •    Scarf or Shawl: Multi-use for sun protection, warmth, or as a blanket.
   •   Flip Flops (Jandals/Thongs): Handy for downtime or beach trips.
   •   Sunglasses & Brimmed Hat: For sun protection.
   •   Swimsuit: Perfect for beaches and hot pools.

Non-Clothing Essentials

   •   Reusable Water Bottle: Eco-friendly and practical for NZ’s drinkable tap water.
   •   Towel: Preferably quick-drying.
   •    Electronics: Phone, camera, chargers, memory cards, and a travel adapter.
   •   Medications: Bring prescriptions and basics; pharmacies are well-stocked locally.
   •   Toiletries: Pack light; most essentials are available in NZ.

Seasonal Essentials

   •   Winter: Wool hat, gloves, and thick socks.
   •   Summer: Lightweight shorts, skirts, or dresses.
   •   Spring & Autumn: Be prepared for all listed items due to variable weather.

Additional Tips

   •   NZ weather is unpredictable—prepare for all seasons in one day.
   •   Shops like The Warehouse and Kmart can cover forgotten items.
   •   Save room for souvenirs and follow this rule: pack half of what you think you need and bring twice the money!

What is included

TRANSPORT

Purpose-built camping coach for group travel
Cook Strait ferry crossing between North and South Island

ACCOMMODATION

15 nights at selected campsites
Shared pop-up tents (two people per tent)
2 hostel dorm nights in Queenstown
Cabin upgrade options at certain locations

MEALS

27 meals included throughout the tour
Breakfasts, lunches and dinners as specified day-to-day

EQUIPMENT

Use of onboard sports equipment (bodyboards, frisbees and more)
Access to camping equipment provided at each campsite

ACTIVITIES

Multiple free hikes in national parks
Wine tasting in Marlborough
Tongariro Alpine Crossing (transfers included)
Coastal, forest and lake walks across both islands
Cycle route options at many destinations

OTHER

All national park access with no entry fees
Friendly, knowledgeable guide throughout the journey

Personal travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended.

Trip Info

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. 

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I take?

We don't have an exact policy when it comes to luggage though we just ask our customers to be mindful that we have limited space. Generally we recommend people to bring a large backpack/suitcase with all their gear and another smaller backpack to keep on the bus and hold their daily items ( phone, water bottle, towel, sunscreen etc ) and which they used to take on walks etc. If you have a lot of luggage is best to leave the things you don't need at your hotel/hostel where they will store it for free.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance. If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

For camping tours there will be no time to do laundry. However, for longer cross country tours involving hostel or hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours require you to have a sleeping bag. If you don't have one they may be available for hire via the "join tour" button.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe. If you have a mobile plan with internet then that should be ok except for more remote regions. This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture. Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience. The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings. As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

Cost and Fees

What does "Paid Locally" mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick up times and locations, please check out the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary. Here we list everywhere we can pick up from and their respective times.There is a lot of information here to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review careful as these can vary from tour to tour. 

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AUCKLAND TO HOT WATER BEACH

DAY 2 – HOT WATER BEACH

DAY 3 – HOT WATER BEACH TO ROTORUA

DAY 4 – ROTORUA

DAY 5 – ROTORUA TO NATIONAL PARK

DAY 6 – NATIONAL PARK TO FOXTON (TONGARIRO CROSSING DAY)

DAY 7 – FOXTON TO PICTON VIA WELLINGTON

DAY 8 – PICTON - KAIKOURA

DAY 9 – KAIKOURA TO LAKE TEKAPO VIA CHRISTCHURCH

DAY 10 – LAKE TEKAPO

DAY 11 – LAKE TEKAPO TO OAMARU VIA AORAKI/MT COOK

DAY 12 – OAMARU TO TE ANAU

DAY 13 – FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK

DAY 14 – TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN

DAY 15 – QUEENSTOWN

DAY 16 – DEPART QUEENSTOWN

Includes

Bring

Notes

What to Bring for Your New Zealand Adventure

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

What should I pack?

What immunisations do I need?

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

How much luggage can I take?

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

Do I need a sleeping bag?

How fit do I need to be?

Do I need travel insurance?

Can I get online whilst travelling?

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

How do I know when a tour is available?

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Does the tour price include flights?

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Cost and Fees

What does &quot;Paid Locally&quot; mean?

Will I need additional money?

Do I need to tip our guide?

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

Where do I meet the tour?

Leave a review:

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What does "Paid Locally" mean?