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Discover the magic of New Zealand winter on this 19 day small group tour. Begin your journey in the mild tempratures of the North Island and look out as the landscapes change as we head south before finding yourself immersed in the winter wonderlands surrounded by snow capped mountains in the depths of the South Island. This itinerary creates the perfect summary of New Zealand with cultural experiences, geothermal discoveries and relaxing hot pools, you are sure to leave feeling refreshed, rejuvinated and ready for more.
Discover the magic of New Zealand winter on this 19 day small group tour. Begin your journey in the mild tempratures of the North Island and look out as the landscapes change as we head south before finding yourself immersed in the winter wonderlands surrounded by snow capped mountains in the depths of the South Island. This itinerary creates the perfect summary of New Zealand with cultural experiences, geothermal discoveries and relaxing hot pools, you are sure to leave feeling refreshed, rejuvinated and ready for more.
Includes
- North and South Islands
- Waitomo Ruakuri Cave Tour
- Mitai Māori Village
- Wai Ariki Restorative Journey
- Wine Tasting
- Tekapo Springs
- Wanaka & Mount Aspiring
- Hanmer Springs
- Various Scenic Hikes
- Hostel / Hotel Accom
- Small Group Adventure
- Experience driver guide
- Meals included
- Trip length: 19 Days
- Group size: Max 24
- Start: Auckland
- End: Christchurch
- Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
- Sleep: Hostels & Homestays
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Physical Demand:
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Pictures / Videos
Itinerary
See MapDay 1 – Welcome to Auckland
Included Accommodation: Lylo Auckland (or similar)
Welcome to Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland), New Zealand's largest city. The bustling metropolis is perfectly nestled between two stunning harbours, Auckland offers a unique blend of urban sophistication, natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and outdoor adventures.
If you have time today, stroll along the iconic Viaduct Harbour, take a peek at Wynyard Quarter to simply get lost in the laneways, window shopping or devouring some of the many food choices on offer. Check out some of the activities on offer and be ready for a welcome evening tonight with the rest of your small group tour crew and driver.
Your accommodation tonight will be at LyLo Auckland. Check in here from 2pm.
Included:
- Welcome Evening
Paid Options:
- Auckland Skydive
- Ecozip Waiheke
- 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
Day 2 – Auckland to Coromandel
Included Accommodation: Hahei Beach Resort (or similar)
Departing Auckland we head southeast to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel and the world-famous Cathedral Cove. This afternoon, experience the breathtaking natural rock formation at Cathedral Cove. Go on a short walk to explore the cove by foot or embark on an ocean adventure and get the best of both worlds. Hop aboard the Hahei Explorer and explore the area by boat OR if you feel like putting some effort in, Cathedral Cove Kayaks is the perfect option too. On this unique surf beach, if you catch the tide right, you can dig a hole in the sand to create your personal hot spa pool.
Included:
- Hot Water Beach
Paid Options:
- Cathedral Cove Kayaking
- Hahei Explorer
Day 3 – Coromandel to Waitomo
Included Accommodation: Waitomo Chalets (or similar)
Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind, we start our journey to the magical underground world of Waitomo. Keen to stretch your legs? En route we will stop to explore the Karangahake Gorge, located at the base of the Coromandel Range. This Historic Walkway follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi and offers an impressive glimpse into the remains of a once-booming gold mining and railway era.
Next up, Waitomo. In Māori, 'wai' means water, and 'tomo' means hole. Waitomo is more than caves and glowworms; it's a cultural hub rich in Māori history, myths and legends. Some of the cave guides are descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau, the original explorer of the caves. You'll have the opportunity to explore the incredible formations and marvel at the glowworms inside the Ruakuri cave on a 90 minute tour. If you are feeling adventurous opt to head underground with the Legendary Black Water Rafting Company and UPGRADE to the Black Labyrinth tour OR Black Abyss tour; jump off underground waterfalls, and enjoy thousands of glowworms lighting your way as you float down an underground river.
Included:
- Karangahake Gorge Windows Walk
- Ruakuri Cave Tour
Paid Options:
- Legendary Black Water Rafting Black Labyrinth
- Legendary Black Water Rafting Black Abyss
Day 4 – Waitomo to Rotorua
Included Accommodation: Haka House (or similar)
There is no better way to start the day than by walking in nature, and Ruakuri Reserve offers the perfect morning walk. This spectacular loop highlights the sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches unique to the Waitomo area.
Next up we head to an equally enchanting land and the home of the Hobbits, Hobbiton. Here you will have the option to join other Hobbiton movie enthusiasts on a guided tour of the famous movie set. After your have geeked out over this neck of the woods, we head to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal wonderland. This evening we will head over to Mitai Maori Village to learn about the culture of Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Be immersed in culture and traditions through authentic experiences and then enjoy a traditional hangi dinner.
Included:
- Mitai Māori Village
Paid Options:
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Mt Tarawera Volcanic Crater Experience
- Redwoods Treetop Walk
- Te Puia - Geothermal Wonderland
- Zorb
- White Water Rafting
- Mountain Jade Highlights Tour
- Rotorua Canopy Tours
Day 5 – Rotorua Free Day
Included Accommodation: Haka House (or similar)
This morning called for a relaxing thermal restorative experience at Wai Ariki Hot Springs which is nestled perfectly by the shores of Lake Rotorua, this is the place to unwind and relax in culture and tradition.
The rest of the day is up to you and your imagination but there is plenty here to keep you busy. For the adventurous, explore the treetops on a network of ziplines with Rotorua Canopy Tours or roll downhill on a giant inflatable ball with Zorb. For those who prefer a more cultural experience, take part in a local Jade Carving workshop. The option to check-out Kuirau Park, a geothermal wonderland located just a short walk from our accommodation is also a great way to spend the morning.
Included:
- Wai Ariki Hot Springs
Paid Options:
- Mt Tarawera Volcanic Crater Experience
- Glowworm Kayak Tour
- Mountain Jade Highlights Tour
- Redwoods Treetop Walk
- Te Puia - Geothermal Wonderland
- White Water Rafting
- Zorb
Day 6 – Rotorua to Wellington
Included Accommodation: Haka House Wellington (or similar)
This morning we leave the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and head to New Zealand's capital city, Wellington. The locals say you cannot beat Welly on a good day so lets hope it is a beautiful day when we arrive. Along the way, we will stop off at the famous Huka Falls and stretch our legs on a brief walk around the falls before hopping back aboard and continuing our journey south to Wellington.
Included:
- Waiotapu Thermal Park
- Huka Falls
- Taihape Gumboot Throwing
Paid Options:
- Capital Bar Crawl
- Switched on Bikes
- Zealandia Te Mara A Tane
- Te Papa Museum
- Wanderlust Tours
Day 7 – Wellington Free Day
Included Accommodation: Haka House Wellington (or similar)
Today in Wellington the decisions are all yours! We highly recommend a visit to Te Papa. This is New Zealand's national museum where you can learn about history and maybe leave with some new facts you can wow your friends and family with! Otherwise, there are a range of activities you can choose from to fuel your afternoon with excitement.
Rent an e-bike and cruise along Wellington's stunning waterfront with Switched on Bikes, or immerse yourself in nature at Zealandia, a haven for native wildlife. Discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city and let your adventurous spirit soar.
Paid Options:
- Capital Bar Crawl
- Switched on Bikes
- Te Papa Museum
- Zealandia Te Mara A Tane
- Wanderlust Tours
Day 8 – Wellington to Kaikōura
Included Accommodation: Dusky Lodge (or similar)
We bid farewell to the North Island and depart Wellington to board the interislander ferry for an awe-inspiring sailing across the Cook Strait. Regarded as one of the most beautiful inter-island crossings in the world, enjoy the deck and marvel at the stunning Marlborough Sounds as we dock at the top of the South Island.
Our drive through to Kaikōura this afternoon will take us through the gorgeous Marlborough region, who likes wine? This region is home to countless vineyards and distilleries making it the perfect stop for today's activity. Sample wines from the local area on a cellar door to door adventure with your new found friends. Our day continues as we make our way to Kaikōura, a coastal town located on the West Coast making it the perfect marine life hangout.
Included:
- Wine Tasting - Whitehaven Cellar Door
- Wine Tasting - Cheese & Cheers
Paid Options:
- Dolphin Watch
- Kaikōura Kayaks Wildlife Tour
- The Sauna Project Kaikōura
- Dolphin Swimming
- Whale Watching
- Wings Over Whales
- Ziplining & Native Forest Trail
Day 9 – Kaikōura to Christchurch
Included Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)
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.
Paid Options:
- Christchurch Street Art Tour
- Waka on Avon
Day 10 – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Included Accommodation: Lakes Edge Lodge (or similar)
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:
- Tekapo Hot Springs
Free Activities:
- Church of the Good Shepherd
Paid Options:
- Dark Sky Project
- Tekapo Springs Stargazing
Day 11 – Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
Get excited as we head towards the adrenaline capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. First up though, let's get our step count up in Mount Cook National Park with a couple of famous walks. Kea Point track is among one of the best walks within the national park. The track passes through a landscape that was formed from a stream and ends on a viewing platform with stunning views of Hooker Valley & Mount cook, to name a few. Then, Tasman Glacier lookout track is another great option for today. This afternoon we arrive in the adrenaline capital, Queenstown. Who is ready to get the blood pumping.
Included:
- Mount Cook National Park - Kea Point Track
- Mount Cook National Park - Tasman Glacier Lookout
Paid Options:
- Kiwi Crawl
Day 12 – Queenstown Free Day
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
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.
Paid Options:
- NZONE Skydive
- Altitude Day Tours
- Dart River Adventures
- Shotover Jet Boat Ride
- Shotover Canyon Swing
- Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
- AJ Hackett (various options)
- Canyon Explorer
- Cardrona Resort (Summer)
- Cardrona Resort (Winter)
- Kawarau White Water Rafting
- Milford Sound Day Trip & Boat Cruise
- Spirit of Queenstown
- TSS and Walter Peak dining
- Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise
Day 13 – Milford Sound Day Trip
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
Today is yours to explore Queenstown. If you did not get out to Milford Sound yesterday, today is another opportunity to get out there and explore it. We can confidently say you will not regret it. Our first stop of the day is in the quaint town of Te Anau where there is options to fuel up before continuing the breathtaking drive towards Milford Sound with scheduled photo stops along the way. Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, known for its pristine wildlife, which marvels at any time of year and in any weather; Milford Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and, unsurprisingly, one of the most amazing scenic day trips to do in New Zealand. Enjoy a two-hour scenic boat cruise through the inky blackwater; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife; if you’re really lucky, you’ll spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.
Paid Options:
- NZONE Skydive
- Altitude Day Tours
- Dart River Adventures
- Shotover Canyon Swing
- Shotover Jet Boat Ride
- AJ Hackett (various options)
- Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
- Canyon Explorer
- Cardrona Resort (Summer)
- Cardrona Resort (Winter)
- Kawarau White Water Rafting
- Milford Sound Day Trip & Boat Cruise
- Spirit of Queenstown
- TSS and Walter Peak dining
- Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise
Day 14 – Queenstown to Wanaka / Hawea
Included Accommodation:
- Hawea Hotel (until 30 April 2026)
- Adventure Hostel Wanaka (01 May – 31 Oct 2026)
- The Brownston Wanaka (01 Nov 2026 – 30 Apr 2027)
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.
This morning we leave the beautiful Queenstown and head around a few corners, around the mountains and make our way to Wanaka and Lake Hawea. Along the way, let's stop in for a visit in Arrowtown, a town that is famous for its mining history. Next up, there are a range of walks to stretch the legs before a stop into Wanaka to get the Insta photo of #thatwanakatree and to get the adrenaline pumping with an optional Wanaka skydive. This afternoon we arrive into Lake Hawea.
Included:
- Arrowtown Visit
- #ThatWanakaTree
- Crown Range Lookout
- 45th Parallel Track
Free Activities:
- SGT - Wanaka Roys Peak Hike
- Mount Iron Track
Paid Options:
- Wanaka Skydive
Day 15 – Wanaka / Hawea to Franz Josef
Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
From 01 May 2026 due to the change in the overnight stop, your day will begin in Wanaka.
Today we leave Hawea and head north to the stunning Franz Josef area which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous 12km long glacier. Get up close to the glacier itself, enjoy some of the activities in the area and be prepared to be blown away by the natural beauty of the area.
Included:
- Thunder Creek Falls
- Lake Matheson mirror lake
Free Activities:
- Franz Josef Glacier walk
Day 16 – Franz Josef Free Day
Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, and the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. Immerse yourself in a unique opportunity today - carving your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewellery (included) and learn more about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and depart with your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Didn't quite get enough adrenaline in Queenstown? Not to worry, Franz Josef offers opportunity to go skydiving, get up close to the glacier or head out and explore on a quad bike adventure.
Paid Options:
- Franz Josef Scenic Flight - 50 Minutes
- Glacier Encounter
- Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
- Kayak & Walk
- Kayak Classic
- Neve Discoverer - 20 Minute Scenic Flight
- Off-Road Adventure Tour
- Tasman Experience & 13,000ft skydive
- Skydive Franz Josef
Day 17 – Franz Josef to Hanmer Springs
Included Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
Today we leave the depths of the mountains & glaciers and head north towards Hanmer Springs, a town located in the Canterbury region still home to mountainous views and best known for its natural hot pools. Before we leave the awe-inspiring Franz Josef area, we will spend our morning learning at the West Coast Wildlife Centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation and wildlife through interactive experiences.
Paid Options:
- West Coast Wildlife centre
Day 18 – Hanmer Springs Free Day
Included Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
Hanmer Springs is the ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence, and you’ve got a free day to explore this remarkable town. Today you have an entry ticket to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa where you can soak in the 22 outdoor thermal pools, complete with four hydroslides and the New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill.
Included:
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
Paid Options:
- Archery
- Mountain Bike Hire with Map
- Outdoor Puzzle Hunt
Day 19 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
After an action-packed and rejuvenated stay in Hanmer Springs, we'll cruise on through to Christchurch. Before leaving Hanmer Springs, enjoy a brief walk through the beautiful heritage forest located here and keep a look out for large wooden animal sculptures along the way. These animals are all delicately crafted out of redwood tree that had to be removed from the thermal pools and spa. Later this afternoon, the tour comes to an end in Christchurch.
Included:
- Hanmer Springs sculpture walk
Paid Options:
- Christchurch Street Art Tour
- Waka on Avon
