21 Days Auckland to Christchurch Experience

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Day 1 – Welcome to Auckland

Kia Ora (Hello) & Welcome to Auckland!

Your adventure begins in Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland – New Zealand's largest city and the "City of Sails." Nestled between two stunning harbours, Auckland offers a vibrant blend of urban buzz and natural beauty with stunning views across the Waitemata Harbour. Stroll along the iconic Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter, catch a ferry, and enjoy a hike to the top of Rangitoto Island, a dormant volcano, or sail further to Waiheke Island.

Tonight's the Night! Connect with your fellow travellers and legendary Kiwi Experience Driver Guide at the Welcome Evening,You'll be staying at the centrally located Lylo Auckland—check-in from at 2 p.m.

Included:

• Lylo (or similar)
• Welcome Evening

Paid Options:

• Auckland Skydive
• All Blacks experience
• America's Cup Sailing Experience
• Man O'War Ferry
• Rotoroa Island
• Tikapa Moana Whale & Dolphin Cruise
• Explore Tiritiri Matangi Island
• Weta Unleashed
• Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
• Ecozip Waiheke

Day 2 – Coromandel & Cathedral Cove

As we bid farewell to Auckland, we make our way southeast towards the coastal town of Coromandel. This part of the North Island is famous for its pristine beaches and the famous Cathedral Cove. Get out on the water and see marine life and get up close to the breathtaking natural rock formation at Cathedral Cove on the Hahei Explorer or Cathedral Cove Kayaks. You can opt to explore the area by foot. Later on today lets head to Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own natural spa and relax in the hot geothermal water before heading to Hahei where we will spend the evening.

Included:

• Hahei Beach Resort (or similar)
• Hot Water Beach

Paid Options:

• Cathedral Cove Kayaking
• Hahei Explorer

Day 3 – Waitomo Caves & Glowworms

We leave the coastal town of Hahei and head to Waitomo, famous for what lies beneath. This afternoon we underground with a 90-minute walking tour of Ruakuri Cave. Marvel at the awe-inspiring limestone formations and be mesmerised by glowworms' up close. Uncover the rich tapestry of Māori history, myths, and legends. Feeling like a little more adventure? Perhaps something to get your blood pumping? UPGRADE from the Ruakuri Cave Tour to one of the Legendary Black Water Rafting Experiences and choose from either the Black Labyrinth OR Black Abyss underground adventure. Jump off underground waterfalls and be mesmerised by the millions of glowworms lighting the way.

Included:

• Waitomo Chalets (or similar)
• Ruakuri Cave Tour

Paid Options:

• Legendary Black Water Rafting Black Abyss
• Legendary Black Water Rafting Black Labyrinth

Day 4 – Hobbiton & Rotorua Mud Baths

Stretch your legs this morning on a gentle stroll through Ruakuri Reserve. This look highlights the sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches unique to the Waitomo area. Next up, all aboard as we head toward Rotorua with a stop at Hobbiton along the way. (Explore the lush pastures of the Shire™ with a optional paid guided tour of Hobbiton™ as featured in The Lord of the Ring and The Hobbit trilogies.

To conclude the day, we arrive into the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua where we will jump straight into relaxation at Hell's Gate. Soak the day away as you relax in nutrient-rich water and let the mud gently exfoliate your skin, ready for whatever adventure you may get up to tomorrow.

Included:

• Haka House (or similar)
• Ruakuri Scenic Walk
• Hell's Gate Geothermal Experience & Mud Bath

Paid Options:

• Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
• Wai Ariki Hot Springs
• Glowworm Kayak Tour

Day 5 – Māori Village Overnight Experience

This morning be prepared for an immersive journey through The National Kiwi Hatchery. Learn about the Kiwi bird, their native environment and how iconic they are around the world.

The rest of the day is up to you and there are so many options to keep you entertained. Strap into a harness and soar through the treetops or jump straight into a giant inflatable ZORB and roll down hills. If a slow day is calling your name, take a stroll through one of the many geothermal parks scattered around the town, head to the Redwoods Forest for a walk under the towering trees or choose from one of the many relaxing activities on offer.

This evening we immerse ourselves in Māori traditions and culture at Te Pā Tū Māori Village. Embrace Kaitiakitanga (interaction with the natural world) and Manaakitanga (hospitality and so much more) as you learn about Māori history and culture through performances and enjoy a traditional meal. Next up, gather around a blazing bonfire to enjoy Māori myths and legends before retiring to a traditional sleeping house for the evening.

Included:

• Te Pā Tū Māori Village
• National Kiwi Hatchery

Paid Options:

• Glowworm Kayak Tour
• Mt Tarawera Volcanic Crater Experience
• Redwoods Treetop Walk
• Te Puia - Geothermal Wonderland
• Zorb
• Mountain Jade Highlights Tour
• Rotorua Canopy Tours

Day 6 – Rotorua to Taupō

This morning we hit the road south towards Taupō, the gateway to the central North Island. Taupō is a place of extraordinary natural beauty and wonder, centered on a vast, sparkling lake formed from a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Along the way is the famous Huka Falls, witness 220,000 litres of water travel down the 11 metre waterfall every second.

This afternoon we arrive at our final destination for the day, Taupō. Enjoy this evening's sunset on the Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure as we sail towards the Māori rock carvings. Tuck into some pizza and bring your own drinks for an unforgettable night with the rest of your Kiwi Experience crew.

Included:

• Lakefront Lodge (or similar)
• Waiotapu Thermal Park
• Huka Falls

Paid Options:

• Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure
• Skydive in Taupō
• Rock n Ropes
• Huka Falls Jet
• AJ Hackett Bungy

Day 7 – Explore Taupō

Today is a day for you to explore Taupō at your own leisure. Simply check out the many eateries in town or book one of the optional activities. Depending on the time of the year you are visiting, we suggest getting your step count up on the Tongariro Alpine crossing. This is truly an unforgettable alpine hike across a cratered volcanic moonscape of gemstone-coloured mineral pools and steaming vents in the heart of the UNESCO heritage site of Tongariro National Park.

Included:

• Lakefront Lodge (or similar)
• Huka Falls
• Waiotapu Thermal Park

Paid Options:

• AJ Hackett Bungy
• Huka Falls Jet
• Rock n Ropes
• Skydive in Taupō
• Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Day 8 – River Valley Retreat

River Valley is today's final destination, the perfect setting to get amongst nature. Located peacefully beside the Rangitikei River in the central North Island, River Valley is where you can seek adventure, explore by e-bike or embrace the solitude and blissfully disconnect.

This evening's you will enjoy a Farm to table meal prepared freshly by the River Valley Chef. The team at River Valley are passionate not just about delicious food but care deeply about where the food comes from. They believe in sourcing ethical, local and sustainable healthy and wholesome food.

Included:

• River Valley Lodge (or similar)

Paid Options:

• River Valley E-Bike
• River Valley Horse Riding
• River Valley White Water Rafting

Day 9 – Wellington Arrival

Wellington is the capital of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and is a city compact in size but surrounded by nature and fuelled with creative energy. As we arrive here today, take your time to explore and wander through hidden laneways, discover street art and follow the sculpture walk along Wellington's waterfront. Treat your tastebuds to one of the many world-class cafés and restaurants the city has to offer. There is a lot to explore here so spend the rest of today and your full day tomorrow getting amongst it all.

Included:

• Haka House Wellington (or similar)
• Taihape Gumboot Throwing

Paid Options:

• Capital Bar Crawl
• Switched on Bikes
• Zealandia Te Mara A Tane
• Te Papa Museum
• Wanderlust Tours

Day 10 – Explore Wellington

Today is yours to do as you wish. Continue to check out the hidden laneways or head up the iconic Wellington Cable Car and view the city from above. Visit a lush forest full of rare native wildlife right in the heart of Wellington at the Zealandia eco sanctuary or take a walk through the botanical gardens, located not too far away from the city centre.

Included:

• Haka House Wellington (or similar)

Paid Options:

• Capital Bar Crawl
• Switched on Bikes
• Zealandia Te Mara A Tane
• Te Papa Museum
• Wanderlust Tours

Day 11 – Cook Strait Crossing & Kaikōura

Our journey to the South Island begins! Today we depart Wellington to board the Interislander, Cook Strait ferry. This journey offers an awe-inspiring sail across the Cook Strait where you can marvel at the stunning Marlborough Sounds as we dock at the top of the South Island.

On our drive through to Kaikōura, we will travel through the stunning Marlborough district, home to countless internationally renowned vineyards and distilleries makes it the perfect place to stop and have a wine tasting experience at one of the local vineyards.

We trade vineyards for coastal views as we make our way to Kaikōura. The coastal town of Kaikōura is known for its abundant marine life making this your chance to encounter magnificent whales (seasonal), playful dolphins and graceful seals. Join an optional tour to take in the breathtaking wildlife on offer.

Included:

• Dusky Lodge (or similar)
• Interislander ferry
• Wine Tasting - Whitehaven Cellar Door
• Wine Tasting - Cheese & Cheers

Paid Options:

• Dolphin Swimming
• Dolphin Watch
• Ziplining & Native Forest Trail
• The Sauna Project Kaikōura
• Wings Over Whales
• Whale Watching

Day 12 – Kaikōura to Christchurch

This morning calls for the Kaikōura peninsula walkway to observe the local seals, seabirds and keep a look out for any other wildlife. We then hit the road to our next epic destination, Ōtautahi (Christchurch). Christchurch is an up and coming city in the South Island and is a great place to check out local art, modern buildings and get lost in the streets. There are a range of activity options in Christchurch including the Christchurch Street Art Tour or the Waka on Avon Experience.

Included:

• Hotel Give (or similar)
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walk
• Tawanui Farm visit

Paid Options:

• Christchurch Street Art Tour
• Waka on Avon

Day 13 – Lake Tekapo & Hot Springs

Let’s hit the road and cruise into the magnificent Mackenzie Country, home to stunning scenery, wide open spaces, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands, and dazzlingly starry skies. We will visit one of the region’s most famous and photographed icons, the Church of The Good Shepherd, located on the stunning lakefront of Lake Tekapo. The church is built in memory of the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. Stretch your legs on a walk up Mt John and enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, lakes and Mackenzie Basin Flats. Tonight calls for relaxation at the serene Tekapo Hot Springs.

Included:

• Lakes Edge (or similar)
• Tekapo Hot Springs

Free Activities:

• Church of the Good Shepherd

Paid Options:

• Dark Sky Project
• Tekapo Springs Stargazing

Day 14 – Mount Cook National Park

Ever felt like visiting the powerade factory? Well, today is still not that day but it will be pretty close! During our day trip to Mount Cook National Park we will stop off for a visit to Lake Pukaki, known for its seasonal lavender fields surrounding it and also famous for its opaque turquoise colour, making it look like blue powerade. Next up, we head for Mount Cook village where there are a range of breathtaking scenic hikes in the national park to get that step count up. After a bit more adventure? Step out of a plane with a skydive over Mount Cook or take a scenic flight over the area. We head back to Lake Tekapo for the evening.

Included:

• Lakes Edge (or similar)
• Mount Cook National Park - Kea Point Track
• Mount Cook National Park - Tasman Glacier Lookout

Paid Options:

• Mt Cook Air Safaris Scenic Flight
• Mount Cook Skydive

Day 15 – Queenstown Arrival

We head further sound to go and hunt some adrenaline in Queenstown. Enjoy the views out the windows as we dive between mountains through the stunning Lindis Pass. On our way into Queenstown we stop for a visit at The Kawarau Bridge which is the world's' first commercial bungy site. Only the bravest of travellers will dare to sign up for this iconic bucket list bungy. Once we arrive into Queenstown, check out the town, hit up the famous food spots or relax ready for the rest of the adventure.

Included:

• Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
• Kawarau Bridge Bungy Visit

Paid Options:

• Kiwi Crawl
• NZONE Skydive
• Altitude Day Tours
• Dart River Adventures
• Shotover Jet Boat Ride
• AJ Hackett (various options)
• Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
• Canyon Explorer
• Shotover Canyon Swing
• Cardrona Resort (Summer)
• Cardrona Resort (Winter)
• Kawarau White Water Rafting
• Spirit of Queenstown
• TSS and Walter Peak dining
• Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise

Day 16 – Queenstown Free Day

Queenstown has something for everyone; here, you can seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Each season offers its own unique vibe, and most activities can be accessed all year round. If you’re looking for adrenaline, bungy jumping, jet boating, white water rafting and skydiving are all available. If a more relaxed pace is calling, hire a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area.

Included:

• Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

Paid Options:

• AJ Hackett (various options)
• Altitude Day Tours
• Canyon Explorer
• Cardrona Resort (Summer)
• Cardrona Resort (Winter)
• Dart River Adventures
• Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
• Kawarau White Water Rafting
• Kiwi Crawl
• NZONE Skydive
• Shotover Canyon Swing
• Shotover Jet Boat Ride
• Spirit of Queenstown
• TSS and Walter Peak dining
• Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise

Day 17 – Milford Sound Day Trip

Did you really go to New Zealand's South Island if you did not go to Milford Sound? As we venture early this morning from Queenstown, our first stop of the day is the quaint town of Te Anau. Look out the windows along the way to admire the views, this is just a warm up for the beauty of Milford Sound and you will soon find out why it is the self proclaimed eighth wonder of the world. Known for its pristine views, abundance of wildlife, this is unsurprisingly one of the most scenic day trip to do in New Zealand that marvels no matter the weather conditions. Included is a 2 hour Milford Sound Boat Cruise, keep an eye out for dolphins, fur seals and an abundance of birdlife. After your cruise, we hop back on the bus and head to Queenstown.

Included:

• Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
• Day Trip to Milford Sound
• 2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise

Day 18 – Wanaka & Lake Hawea

From 01 May 2026, the overnight stop at Lake Hawea will change to an overnight stop in Wanaka instead. The bus will bypass Lake Hawea on the way to Wanaka.

Our time in the Adrenaline capital of Queenstown comes to an end as we bid farewell and head to Lake Hawea. Along the way we will make a couple of stops, the first one being Arrowtown. A New Zealand treasure that is charming, quirky and a gold-rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks surrounding the sparkling Arrow river. Next up, Wānaka. The township's position upon the lake offers an instagram worthy view and is home to the famous #ThatWanakaTree making it the perfect spot for you to get that perfect photo.

Your time in Wānaka can be spent completing the 5-6 hour Roys Peak Track (weather and seasonal dependant) that offers breathtaking views of Lake Wānaka or the Mount Iron Track for those looking for a shorter option. Another option for those wanting to gain some higher altitude, how about a Wānaka Skydive? We will finish the day at Lake Hawea, about a 15-minute drive from Wānaka.

Included:

• Hawea Hotel (or similar until 30 April 2026)
• Adventure Hostel Wanaka (or similar from 01 May - 31 October 2026)
• The Brownston Wanaka (or similar from 01 November 2026 - 30 April 2027)
• Arrowtown Visit
• Crown Range Lookout
• 45th Parallel Track
• #ThatWanakaTree

Free Activities:

• SGT - Wanaka Roys Peak Hike
• Mount Iron Track

Paid Options:

• Wanaka Skydive

Day 19 – West Coast Waterfalls & Glaciers

From 01 May 2026 due to the change in the overnight stop, your day will begin in Wanaka.

Didn't quite get your waterfall fix at Milford Sound? Well, maybe our first walk of the day might help. A short bush walk will have us arriving at the base of the 28 metre Thunder Creek Falls. Our next stop of the day will have you breathing in some fresh ocean air when we arrive to Ship Creek. This Kahikatea swamp forest provides a glimpse back in time to what a lot of the West Coast very likely looked like prior to development. Next up, Lake Matheson where after a short walk, the still waters offers the perfect mountain reflection base. Arriving into Franz Josef, a 30 minute (loop) walk will take us through some of the area's rainforest, offering more mountain views, waterfalls and the star of the show, Franz Josef Glacier. You will have plenty of opportunities to get up close to this glacier during your stay here in Franz Josef.

Included:

• Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
• Thunder Creek Falls
• Lake Matheson mirror lake
• Ship Creek Visit

Free Activities:

• Franz Josef Glacier walk

Day 20 – Franz Josef Free Day

Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area and the combination of stunning alpine scenery and West Coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for today's activity's day. Get up close to the Franz Josef glacier during one of the optional activities', see the area from above with a scenic flight or skydive or head out on a kayaking adventure.

Included:

• Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Free Activities:

• Franz Josef Glacier walk

Paid Options:

• Glacier Encounter
• Off-Road Adventure Tour
• Tasman Experience
• Tasman Experience & 13,000ft skydive
• Kayak & Walk
• Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
• Franz Josef Scenic Flight - 50 Minutes
• Skydive Franz Josef
• Neve Discoverer - 20 Minute Scenic Flight

Day 21 – TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch

On the final day of your Grand Kiwi Experience, we travel from Coast to Coast right over the Southern Alps on the world-famous Tranzalpine Train, but not before kicking off our final morning, why not enjoy some cuteness with an optional paid experience and get up close to native wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation efforts and wildlife through interactive experiences.

Next up, time to board the earlier-mentioned Tranzalpine Train. This scenic train journey will take you through breathtaking New Zealand scenery, through the aqua blue river of the Waimakariri Gorge, over bridges and viaducts and past magnificent mountain landscapes before arriving in Christchurch in the late afternoon, where your time on the Grand Kiwi Experience comes to an end.

Included:

• Scenic Tranzalpine Train Journey across the Southern Alps

Paid Options:

• West Coast Wildlife centre

See Map

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!

ACCOMMODATION

• 21 nights of accommodation across hostels, beach resorts and lodges
• Shared dormitory-style rooms throughout the trip
• Accommodation split across both North and South Island destinations

MEALS

• Farm-to-table dinner at River Valley Lodge
• Hāngī-style feast at Te Pā Tū Māori Village
• Lake Taupō sunset sailing dinner (pizza)

ACTIVITIES

• Hot Water Beach visit
• Ruakuri Cave guided tour
• Ruakuri Scenic Walk
• Hell’s Gate geothermal mud bath
• National Kiwi Hatchery entry
• Te Pā Tū Māori Village cultural immersion & overnight stay
• Waiotapu Thermal Park visit
• Huka Falls visit
• Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure
• Taihape Gumboot Throwing
• Interislander Cook Strait ferry crossing
• Wine tasting at Whitehaven Cellar Door
• ‘Cheese & Cheers’ tasting experience
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
• Tawanui Farm visit
• Tākou Hot Springs entry
• Mount Cook Kea Point Track
• Tasman Glacier Lookout
• Kawarau Bridge Bungy viewing stop
• Arrowtown visit
• Crown Range Lookout
• 45th Parallel Track walk
• #ThatWanakaTree photo stop
• Thunder Creek Falls walk
• Ship Creek coastal forest walk
• Lake Matheson mirror lake walk

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

• Coromandel coastline & Cathedral Cove
• Geothermal Rotorua
• Lake Taupō & volcanic landscapes
• Wellington waterfront & Cable Car
• Marlborough Sounds ferry crossing
• Kaikōura coastal wildlife region
• Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
• Mount Cook National Park & alpine lakes
• Queenstown mountains & lakes
• Wanaka & Roys Peak region
• Franz Josef Glacier & West Coast wilderness
• Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine Train

MĀORI CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

• Te Pā Tū Māori Village cultural immersion
• Traditional Māori storytelling & bonfire
• Hāngī feast

TRANSPORT

• Air-conditioned coach transport throughout New Zealand
• All travel between destinations included
• Interislander Cook Strait ferry (North–South Island crossing)
• TranzAlpine Train journey across the Southern Alps

GROUP EXPERIENCE

• Fun, social small-group touring
• Flexible activities to suit your style

GUIDE

• Experienced Kiwi Experience Driver Guide
• Local commentary, support and recommendations throughout the tour

Personal travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Preparing for the trip

Private tours and families

Booking the trip

Who travels with us

Cost and Fees

Whilst on tour