20 Day Totally New Zealand

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Embark on an unforgettable 20-day adventure from Auckland to Christchurch, immersing yourself in New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

Experience the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, and the adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown. Traveling in small groups, you’ll stay in quality hostels and lodges, sharing memorable experiences with fellow adventurers.

Includes

Hahei Beach stay
Visit Hot Water Beach
Explore Rotorua’s geothermal
Tour Hobbiton Movie Set

Experience Māori culture
Discover Lake Taupo
Hike Tongariro National Park
Visit Wellington city

Abel Tasman National Park
Stay at Franz Josef Glacier
Adventure in Queenstown
Tour ends in Christchurch

Trip length: 20 Days
Group size: Max 24
Start: Auckland
End: Christchurch

Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
Sleep: Hostel Style
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

See Map

DAY 1: ARRIVAL AUCKLAND

Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to Aotearoa (New Zealand), the land of the long white cloud. Make your way to your hostel and then go and explore the city. We recommend starting at the waterfront, which is a downhill walk from your accommodation. Meet your guide at 6pm for an introduction to your tour and a complimentary welcome drink before heading out together for some dinner (own cost).

Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City

Free Activities: Walk the waterfront

Included Activities: Welcome drink

DAY 2: AUCKLAND ISLAND EXPERIENCE

Auckland has one of the best harbours in the world and is known locally as the “City of Sails.” Today you’ll experience Auckland from the water as we head out to Rangitoto Island for the day. This dormant volcano, one of 44 in the region, sits just out from the city in the Waitemata Harbour. The views are simply stunning, from the cityscape to the surrounding islands. It’s the perfect way to get in the groove for the amazing adventures ahead!

Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch

Included Activities: Water taxi to Rangitoto Island, hike a volcano

DAY 3: AUCKLAND TO HAHEI

Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ (goodbye) to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ (hello) to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. This gorgeous little place will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast eternally). When the tides are right, we’ll drive over to the nearby Hot Water Beach and dig ourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand. Who said backpackers can’t do luxury?

Accommodation: Hahei Holiday Resort

Meal Options: Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Free Activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach

Optional Paid Activities: Kayaking or Hahei Explorer

DAY 4: HAHEI TO ROTORUA

Rise and shine for an early start as you walk to Hahei Beach to watch the sunrise. Then it’s straight back into the bus for our journey to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Before arriving in Rotorua, we’ll stop for an incredibly scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and then visit the home of the Hobbit with a tour of the real movie set, which was created right here in Middle Earth! Once in Rotorua, explore Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest or the township for more adventures.

Accommodation: Haka House Rotorua

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Included Activities: Hobbiton Movie Set

Free Activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk

DAY 5: ROTORUA TO LAKE ANIWHENUA

This morning, we’ll head to Kuirau Park where we’ll see geothermal activity, boiling mud pools, and steaming lakes. After Rotorua, we head off the beaten path to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a local Māori family who are passionate about their tribal heritage and community. You'll see sacred Māori rock carvings, play traditional stick games, and watch the preparation of a hāngi meal, cooked in an underground earth oven. The highlight? Tasting this delicious feast!

Accommodation: Kohutapu Lodge

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Traditional Hāngi Dinner, Dessert

Included Activities: Learn the Haka, Māori flax weaving

Free Activities: Māori rock carvings, volleyball, cultural games

DAY 6: LAKE ANIWHENUA TO LAKE TAUPO

After a buffet breakfast, we’ll stop at Kerosene Creek, a naturally hot river for a morning soak, before heading to Taupō. Explore Australasia’s largest lake, marvel at the mighty Huka Falls, or relax at the accommodation.

Accommodation: Haka House Taupō

Meal Options: Self-cater or join the optional group dinner

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Free Activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupō

Optional Paid Activities: Skydiving or bungy jumping

DAY 7: LAKE TAUPO TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Head to the iconic Tongariro National Park, where the adventure kicks off with a whitewater rafting trip along the Tongariro River. Navigate grade-3 rapids while soaking in the beautiful scenery, then relax at your alpine accommodation.

Accommodation: Alpine Chalets

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch

Included Activities: Whitewater rafting in Tongariro River

DAY 8: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 19 km trek takes you across rocky plateaus, volcanic craters, and turquoise lakes. Other short walks are available if weather prevents the crossing.

Accommodation: Alpine Chalets

Meal Options: Pack snacks and water

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Included Activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transfers

Free Activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit Volcanic Centre

DAY 9: TONGARIRO TO WELLINGTON

Travel to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Explore Te Papa National Museum, enjoy craft beer, or hike Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the city and harbour.

Accommodation: Haka House Wellington

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Optional Paid Activities: Visit Te Papa National Museum

Free Activities: Mount Victoria lookout, waterfront stroll

DAY 10: WELLINGTON TO MARAHAU

Catch the ferry to the South Island and travel through the scenic Marlborough Sounds, arriving in Marahau, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

Accommodation: The Barn, Marahau

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Included Activities: Ferry to South Island

DAY 11: ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

Spend the day exploring the golden beaches and lush forests of Abel Tasman National Park, with options for hiking, kayaking, or a relaxing water taxi ride.

Accommodation: The Barn, Marahau

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

Included Activities: Water taxi to Anchorage Bay

DAY 12: MARAHAU TO FRANZ JOSEF

Travel along the rugged West Coast, stopping at Punakaiki Pancake Rocks before arriving at Franz Josef Glacier for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 13: FRANZ JOSEF FREE DAY

Enjoy a free day at Franz Josef to explore the glacier or relax in the hot pools.

Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 14: FRANZ JOSEF TO QUEENSTOWN

Journey through Haast Pass and along Lake Wakatipu to the adventure capital of Queenstown.

Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 15-16: QUEENSTOWN FREE DAYS

Two full days to enjoy Queenstown’s thrilling activities and vibrant nightlife.

Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 17: MILFORD SOUND DAY TRIP

Visit the stunning Milford Sound, cruise through its fjords, and marvel at its beauty.

Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 18: QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE TEKAPO

Travel to Lake Tekapo, famous for its blue waters and stargazing opportunities.

Accommodation: Haka House Lake Tekapo

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 19: LAKE TEKAPO TO CHRISTCHURCH

Stop at the Church of the Good Shepherd before heading to Christchurch for your final night.

Accommodation: Bealey Quarter

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

DAY 20: DEPART CHRISTCHURCH

Say farewell to your group as your adventure comes to an end.

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast

See Map

Departs

18:00 @ Haka House Auckland City Turner Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, New Zealand

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

Private, air-conditioned coach

ACCOMMODATION

19 nights in dorm-style hostels and backpackers

MEALS

19 breakfasts
2 lunches
1 dinner

ACTIVITIES

Rangitoto Island visit
Hobbiton Movie Set tour
Maori cultural experience at Lake Aniwhenua
Whitewater rafting on the Tongariro River
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Inter-island ferry crossing
Abel Tasman National Park water taxi and hike
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks visit
Milford Sound day trip and cruise
Dark Sky Crater Experience in Lake Tekapo

OTHER

Experienced tour guide
Private coach transport
20 days of once-in-a-lifetime experiences

Personal travel insurance is not included but is recommended. This can be organized through your travel agent.

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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DAY 1: ARRIVAL AUCKLAND

DAY 2: AUCKLAND ISLAND EXPERIENCE

DAY 3: AUCKLAND TO HAHEI

DAY 4: HAHEI TO ROTORUA

DAY 5: ROTORUA TO LAKE ANIWHENUA

DAY 6: LAKE ANIWHENUA TO LAKE TAUPO

DAY 7: LAKE TAUPO TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

DAY 8: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

DAY 9: TONGARIRO TO WELLINGTON

DAY 10: WELLINGTON TO MARAHAU

DAY 11: ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

DAY 12: MARAHAU TO FRANZ JOSEF

DAY 13: FRANZ JOSEF FREE DAY

DAY 14: FRANZ JOSEF TO QUEENSTOWN

DAY 15-16: QUEENSTOWN FREE DAYS

DAY 17: MILFORD SOUND DAY TRIP

DAY 18: QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE TEKAPO

DAY 19: LAKE TEKAPO TO CHRISTCHURCH

DAY 20: DEPART CHRISTCHURCH

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?

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What does "Paid Locally" mean?