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Discover New Zealand from top to bottom on this immersive 24-day small-group adventure that showcases the very best of Aotearoa’s landscapes, culture and unforgettable experiences.
Starting in Auckland, you’ll journey through the Coromandel’s pristine beaches, glowworm caves in Waitomo, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the volcanic lakes of Taupō and the rugged beauty of the central North Island. Along the way, dive into Māori culture, unwind in natural hot springs, sail across the Cook Strait and explore the vibrant capital city of Wellington before crossing into the spectacular scenery of the South Island.
The adventure continues through the iconic coastal and alpine regions of Kaikōura, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Queenstown, Wānaka and Franz Josef. From breathtaking hikes, wildlife encounters and glacier landscapes to thermal pools, wine tasting, adrenaline activities and star-filled night skies, this trip blends nature, culture and adventure in perfect balance. With an expert local guide, comfortable accommodation, and a hand-picked selection of included activities, this is the ultimate New Zealand experience — designed for travellers who want more than a holiday, but a journey they’ll talk about for years.
Includes
- North and South Islands
- Waitomo Ruakuri Cave Tour
- Visit Hell's Gate
- National Kiwi Hatchery
- Te Pā Tū Evening Experience
- Tawanui Farm Experience
- Tekapo Springs
- Milford Sounds
- Greenstone Carving
- Tranzalpine Train
- Hostel / Hotel Accom
- Small Group Adventure
- Experience driver guide
- Meals included
- Trip length: 24 Days
- Group size: Max 24
- Start: Auckland
- End: Christchurch
- Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
- Sleep: Hostels & Homestays
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Pictures / Videos
Itinerary
See MapDAY 1 – Auckland Arrival
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 2 p.m.
Included:
- Accommodation: Lylo (or similar)
- Welcome Evening
Optional:
- Auckland Skydive
DAY 2 – Auckland to Hahei
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:
- Accommodation: Hahei Beach Resort (or similar)
Optional:
- Cathedral Cove Kayaking
- Hahei Explorer
DAY 3 – Hahei to Waitomo
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:
- Accommodation: Waitomo Chalets (or similar)
- Ruakuri Cave Tour
Optional:
- Legendary Black Water Rafting – Black Labyrinth
- Legendary Black Water Rafting – Black Abyss
DAY 4 – Waitomo to Rotorua
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 an 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.
Included:
- Accommodation: Haka House (or similar)
- Ruakuri Scenic Walk
Optional:
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
DAY 5 – Rotorua Activities Day
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, head to the Redwoods Forest or choose from relaxing activities on offer. This evening we immerse ourselves in Māori traditions and culture at Te Pā Tū Māori Village.
Included:
- Te Pā Tū Māori Village
- National Kiwi Hatchery
Optional:
- Glowworm Kayak
DAY 6 – Rotorua to Taupo
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. This evening's you have the optional paid sunset on the Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure 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:
- Accommodation: Lakefront Lodge (or similar)
- Huka Falls (photo stop)
Optional:
- AJ Hackett Bungy
DAY 7 – Taupo Activities Day
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:
- Accommodation: Lakefront Lodge (or similar)
- Waiotapu Thermal Park (photo stop)
Optional:
- Skydive in Taupō
DAY 8 – Taupo to River Valley
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:
- Accommodation: River Valley Lodge (or similar)
Optional:
- River Valley E-Bike
- River Valley Horse Riding
DAY 9 – River Valley to Wellington
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:
- Accommodation: Haka House Wellington (or similar)
- Taihape Gumboot Throwing
Optional:
- Capital Bar Crawl
DAY 10 – Wellington Activities Day
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:
- Accommodation: Haka House Wellington (or similar)
Optional:
- Capital Bar Crawl
- Switched on Bikes
DAY 11 – Wellington to Kaikoura
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:
- Accommodation: Dusky Lodge (or similar)
- Interislander ferry
- Wine Tasting - Whitehaven Cellar Door
Optional:
- Dolphin Watch
- Kaikōura Kayaks Wildlife Tour
- The Sauna Project Kaikōura
- Dolphin Swimming
- Wings Over Whales
- Whale Watching
- Ziplining & Native Forest Trail
DAY 12 – Kaikoura 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:
- Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)
- Kaikōura Peninsula Walk
- Tawanui Farm visit
Optional:
- Christchurch Street Art Tour
- Waka on Avon
DAY 13 – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
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:
- Accommodation: Lakes Edge (or similar)
- Tekapo Hot Springs
Optional:
- Church of the Good Shepherd (free)
DAY 14 – Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park (return day trip)
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.
DAY 15 – Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
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:
- Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
- Kawarau Bridge Bungy Visit (photo stop)
Optional:
- AJ Hackett (various options)
DAY 16 – Queenstown Activities 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:
- Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
Optional:
- AJ Hackett (various options)
- Altitude Day Tours
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:
- Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
- 2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise
- Day Trip to Milford Sound
DAY 18 – Queenstown to Lake Hawea (via Wanaka)
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:
- Accommodation: Hawea Hotel (or similar until 30 April 2026)
- Accommodation: Adventure Hostel Wanaka (or similar from 01 May - 31 October 2026)
- Accommodation: The Brownston Wanaka (or similar from 01 November 2026 - 30 April 2027)
- Arrowtown Visit (photo stop)
- Crown Range Lookout (photo stop)
- 45th Parallel Track (scenic walk)
- #ThatWanakaTree (scenic walk)
Optional:
- SGT - Wanaka Roys Peak Hike (free)
- Mount Iron Track (free)
- Wanaka Skydive
DAY 19 – Lake Hawea to Franz Josef
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:
- Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
- Thunder Creek Falls (scenic walk)
- Lake Matheson mirror lake (scenic walk)
- Ship Creek Visit (photo stop)
Optional:
- Franz Josef Glacier walk (free)
DAY 20 – Franz Josef Activities 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:
- Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Optional:
- 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 – Franz Josef to Punakaiki
This morning we head to the West Coast Wildlife centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation efforts and wildlife through interactive experiences. Then, it is time to head up the wild west coast towards Punakaiki, a small village known for its pancake rocks. Along the way we will stop at Hokitika beach to check out the beachfront sculptures. The Punakaiki pancake rocks are a collection of limestone rock formations that resemble a stack of pancakes. Explore the rock formations and blowholes before grabbing a bite to eat the the Pancake Rocks cafe, of course famous for their pancake lunch. The West Coast is home to incredibly diverse landscapes and this afternoon is yours to explore the many scenic walks in the area, including the Punakaiki swing bridge and a cavern with stalactites and glowworms.
Included:
- Pancake Rocks Walk
- Irmahuwhero (scenic photo stop)
Optional:
- West Coast Wildlife centre
DAY 22 – Punakaiki to Hanmer Springs
Today we leave the coastal West Coast and head north towards Hanmer Springs, a town located in the Canterbury region, home to mountainous views and best known for its natural hot pools. Along the way we will stop off at the Hanmer Springs Sculpture Walk. Located in the Hanmer Springs heritage forest, keep an eye out for the wooden sculptures along the way.
Included:
- Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
- Hanmer Springs sculpture walk
DAY 23 – Hanmer Springs Activities Day
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:
- Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
Optional:
- Manuka Skies Stargazing
DAY 24 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
After an action packed and rejuvenated stay in Hanmer Springs, we will cruise through to Christchurch. Along the way we will stop at Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park. This sculpture park is set in the stunning North Canterbury landscape overlooking the Waipara River Valley. It is here where you will find an impressive collection of sculptures ranging in size and crafted in diverse mediums like bronze, steel, corten steel, pounamu and sandstone. These creations are the work of a local New Zealand artist, Raymond Herver. Next and final stop of the day (and tour) is Christchurch, New Zealand's oldest city and home to Hagley Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. It has been an action packed 24 days on the great tour of all time, take some time to reminisce on the memories you have made with your new found friends and we will catch you next time, ka kite anō!
Included:
- Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
