Kia Ora New Zealand

13 days Explore New Zealand from The North Island to The South Island

This premium package offers exceptional service while guiding you through New Zealand’s must-see highlights, from the bustling city of Auckland to the hidden Gem of Milford Sound, where you will enjoy stunning views on a scenic cruise. Every day is filled with the worth-seeing attractions such as Hobbiton, Taupo and exchange of traditional culture in Rotorua and a full detour trip of the South Island. Experience everything from bustling city life to unforgettable wildlife encounters, all in the utmost comfort. An incredible New Zealand trip filled with beauty, culture, and adventure awaits you. 

 

Let The Kia Ora New Zealand journey be a part of your unforgettable story!

Trip overview

Start
Auckland
Finish
Christchurch
Theme
Culture exploration
Style
Classic
Days
13
Locations
12
Countries
1
Trip code
A000

Why you will love this trip: 

Explore  Explore: Travel though unmissable cities like Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, West Coast, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Mountains Be entertained:  Enjoy the beautiful landscapes by cruising around Milford Sound and experience the scenic ferry crossing through Cook Strait
Culture Exchange cultures: Visiting Te Puia to immerse yourself in Māori culture, especially enjoying the traditional hāngi food, offers a deeper understanding of their rich culinary heritage and customs
Market Support local: Immerse yourself in the West Coast, where local operators and shops thrive on tourism
Environmentalism Create eco-friendly activities: Practice sustainable tourism by exploring natural destinations like Milford sound, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and avoiding waste during your trip

Itinerary

Day 1: Auckland discovery (team meeting)

Welcome to Auckland, the starting point of your tour in New Zealand’s largest city. At 6 pm, gather with our local tour guide and fellow group members at the iconic Waterfront. Then followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. This is the perfect beginning, setting the tone for an energizing start to the following day!

Accommodation: TFE Travelodge, IHG Ibis or similar

Meals: Dinner

Included activities:

  • Welcome dinner
  • Harbour walk

Special note: This day holds significant importance as it marks the first welcome meeting with your tour guide, during which we will confirm insurance details and discuss the itinerary. If, for any reason, you are unable to attend this crucial session or have specific requests regarding your flight and accommodation, kindly reach out to us in advance.

Day 2: Auckland - Waitomo Cave - Hobbiton - Rotorua

Escape the busy city of Auckland and go on an exciting trip to the Glowworm Cave. Being amazed by the beautiful rock formations and the glowing worms that light up the cave. Experience a guided tour with a local expert who will show you its amazing sights.

Next, visit the Hobbiton movie set tour. Explore the set with a local guide and see the newly built Hobbit hole, completed in December 2023. End the tour with a drink at the famous Green Dragon Inn, enjoying the magical atmosphere.

Finally, travel to Rotorua and spend the night there. This day offers a mix of natural beauty, movie magic, and a bit of fantasy, creating unforgettable memories from your road trip adventure.

Accommodation: Copthorne Rotorua, IHG Ibis Rotorua or similar

Meals: Breakfast

Included activities:

  •   Waitomo – Glow Worm Cave 
  •   The Lord of the Rings Movie Set Tours
  •   Drink at the Green Dragon

Day 3: Rotorua highlights - Taupo

Embark on your morning with a visit to Te Puia in the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, where you’ll encounter mud pools, and geysers. Follow a local expert as they guide you through the landscape, highlighting the largest geyser in the North Island, Pohutu.

Next, explore the Kiwi House Bird Enclosure, an iconic representation of New Zealand’s wildlife. Gain insights into the history of the kiwi and learn about conservation efforts to protect these unique birds. Experience the opportunity to observe these beloved creatures in a darkened enclosure. Then, take a short walk to the Ahua Gallery to watch demonstrations of Maori carving and weaving. Lunch will be provided at Te Puia.

After lunch, visit Agrodome Sheep farm. Get ready for entertainment and education with the legendary Farm Show! You will enjoy amazing facts and plenty of laughs as you’re introduced to 19 breeds of sheep. Watching farm dogs demonstrate their incredible ability to respond to commands and skillfully herd sheep and ducks. Then heading to Taupo to spend a night. 

Accommodation: Millennium Taupo or similar

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, farewell dinner

Included activities:

  •   Te Puia Geothermal Area with Local Guide & Hangi Lunch
  •   Ahua Gallery & Kiwi Conservation Centre
  •   Agrodome Sheep farm

Day 4: Taupo - Hamilton garden - Auckland

In the morning, take some free time to explore the Taupo waterfront at your own pace, soaking in the lovely surroundings. Then visit Huka Falls, known for its stunning blue water and beautiful scenery. Enjoy the sight of the powerful, cascading waters and take in the picturesque surroundings.

Next, visit Hamilton Gardens, one of the most stunning gardens in New Zealand, celebrated for its rich blend of cultural styles.

After exploring the gardens, continue your journey back to Auckland to spend another night.

Accommodation: TFE-Travelodge, Accor-Ibis or similar

 Meals: Breakfast

Included activities:

  • Huka Falls
  • Hamilton gardens

Day 5: Auckland - Christchurch exploration (flight)

Take a morning flight to Christchurch and keep going on our journey from the gateway of the South Island. After checking in accommodation, explore Christchurch on your own pace. Start by visiting the beautiful Botanical gardens and Hagley Park. Then head to Riverside market for some local flavors and culture. Finish your day with a relaxing punting experience on Avon River. At 6pm, enjoy a beautiful dinner and welcome new member. This is a perfect opportunity to connect, share experiences and set the stage for exciting journey together.

Accommodation: TFE-Travelodge, Accor-Ibis or similar

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Included activities:

  • Welcome dinner

Day 6: Christchurch - Fairlie Alpaca farm - Lake Tekapo

Say goodbye to Christchurch and heading to Lake Tekapo. On the way, you’ll experience the breathtaking beauty of the McKenzie region, with its wild landscapes and snow-capped mountains. Visit the local Alpaca farm for a delightful experience feeding these animals – One of New Zealand’s fun facts. Pausing at Fairlie bakehouse to try the best pie in New Zealand. Continue your adventure to Mt. John, where you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of Lake Tekapo. After checking in and having dinner, get ready for a night of unforgettable stargazing experience, where you will be dazzled by thousands of stars, all clearly explained by your guide. End your day with an overnight stay at Lake Tekapo.

Accommodation: Haka House Lake Tekapo or similar

Meal: Breakfast

Included activities:

  • Alpacas local farm
  • Fairlie bakehouse
  • Mt John lookout
  •  Lake Tekapo & Stargazing

Day 7: Lake Tekapo - Mt Cook - Wanaka

This morning, begin your journey from the serene Lake Tekapo, making your way to the majestic Mount Cook. As you travel through the stunning McKenzie region, be sure to take in the dramatic landscapes, known for their sweeping vistas of turquoise lakes, rolling hills, and towering mountains.

Along the way, visit New Zealand’s largest lavender farm, a fragrant and colourful stop where you can stroll through vibrant purple fields. Don’t miss the chance to try their famous real fruit lavender ice cream, a unique and refreshing treat that perfectly complements the beautiful surroundings. Next, Challenge yourself with Hooker Valley Track, one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking hikes. For an enhanced experience, take an optional helicopter ride to the summit of Mt Cook, where you can step onto the snow and ice for a truly unique alpine adventure

Afterward, continue your drive toward Wanaka, passing through more scenic landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of the South Island. Upon reaching Wanaka, check in at your accommodation by the picturesque waterfront. Spend a relaxing evening in Wanaka Lakefront.

Accommodation: Wanaka hotel or similar

Meal: Breakfast

Included activities:

  • Mt Cook village and Hooker Valley track
  • Lavender Farm (Seasonal: Available from October to April)
  • Wanaka lakefront

Day 8: Wanaka - Arrowtown - Te Anau

Take in the refreshing breeze along the Wanaka lakefront before heading to Arrowtown, a must-visit destination known for its romantic charm and historical significance. Take in the romantic streets and immerse yourself in the town’s atmosphere.

Then, embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Te Anau, enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu along the way. Visit the Te Anau Lookout to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. Take a stroll around the town, relax and enjoy the dinner there.

Accommodation: Distinction luxmore or similar

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Included activities:

  • Wanaka lakefront
  • Arrowtown
  • Te Anau Lookout

Special note: In case of bad weather, we may sometimes be unable to travel to Queenstown via the Crown Range Road.

Day 9: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown

After breakfast, drive to Milford Sound, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of mountains and waterfalls along the way. check in the boat and enjoy a breathtaking 2-hour cruise around the bay. Marvel at stunning waterfalls, you even spot dolphins on a sunny day. After your cruise, bid farewell to the enchanting Milford Sound as you begin your journey to Queenstown. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Wakatipu Lake and the surrounding landscapes.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel, Accor-Peppers Beacon Queenstown or similar

 Meals: Breakfast, seasonal lunch pack

 Included activities:

  • 2-hours cruise at Milford Sound

Day 10: Explore town of Queens

Enjoy a free day to discover Queenstown. Get ready for the stunning beauty that awaits you. Take a stroll around the picturesque lake, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and treat yourself to a refreshing drink.

For more adventure, take a cable car to the gondola for a panoramic view of Queenstown. You can also enjoy an exciting luge ride, try bungee jumping, or experience an iconic jet boat ride through the Shotover River.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel, Accor-Peppers Beacon Queenstown or similar

Meals: Breakfast

Optional activities:

  •   Gondola + Luge ride
  •   Bungee Jump
  •   Shotover Jet Boat
  •   Cruise on Wakatipu Lake

Day 11: Queenstown - Cromwell - Blue Pools - Franz Josef glacier

Start a day filled with diverse and enchanting spots. Begin in Cromwell, a town with a modern appearance but a rich history dating back to the gold rush days of the 1800s. Explore the historic charm of ‘Old Cromwell Town’ and learn about its past.

Continue your journey to Makarora, surrounded by alpine scenery and river valleys, providing a scenic drive through nature’s beauty. Make a stop at Makarora Blue Pools, where you can dip your feet into the fresh water and experience its invigorating freshness.

End your day in Franz Josef Glacier, where you can take in the breathtaking mountain views. Relax and recharge for another exciting day tomorrow.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier or similar

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Included activities:

  • Cromwell Prestige 
  • Makarora and Blue Pool
  • Franz Josef glacier

Day 12: Franz Josef Glacier - Hokitika

In the morning, take a walk-through Franz Josef Glacier where you will experience the lush rainforest to see the stunning Glacier valley. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

For more adventure, you can book a helicopter ride to the mountaintop or join a guided Heli-hike tour for an immersive glacier experience. These options offer an unforgettable way to explore the glacier up close and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.

After refreshment, head to Hokitika town. This charming town is famous for its artistic flair and coastal beauty. Explore the local attractions and local shops as Hokitika is renowned for its famous gemstone, pounamu (greenstone).

Accommodation: Beachfront Hokitika hotel or similar

Meals: Breakfast, farewell dinner

Included activities:

  • Franz Josef glacier walk
  • Hokitika charming town

Day 13: Hokitika - Punakaiki - Christchurch by scenic train (tour ends)

Start our journey with a visit to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Discover how these unique rock formations were created and take in the beautiful scenery. Then head to Greymouth for a scenic train experience. Having a pause to visit a boutique studio in Greymouth before boarding the TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views as you pass through Arthur’s Pass.  

Upon arrival in Christchurch, our guide will pick you up and drop you at your accommodation, leaving you with cherished memories of the natural wonders, cultural discoveries, and scenic beauty that define New Zealand.

Accommodation: TFE-Travelodge, Accor-Ibis or similar

Meals: Breakfast,

Included activities:

  • Tranzalpine Train
  • Greymouth – Pounamu (Greenstone) Studio Visit
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes entry

Special note: If you find yourself wanting to explore Christchurch further and delve into its attractions, feel free to get in touch with us ahead of time. We would be delighted to assist in arranging extra accommodation, subject to availability. Safe travels, and we hope the memories from your New Zealand adventure stay with you.

Inclusions

Meals 12 Breakfasts, 6 dinners, 2 lunches.
Transport Luxury 10-seater van, scenic train, flight
Accommodation TFE group, IHG group, Accor group or similar
Included activities
  • Domestic flight Auckland to Christchurch
  • Auckland welcome dinner
  • Waitomo – Glow Worm Cave
  • Hobbiton – The Lord of the Rings Movie Set and Drink at the Green Dragon
  • Te Puia Geothermal Area with Local Guide & Hangi Lunch and Ahua Gallery & Kiwi Conservation Centre
  • Rotorua Agrodome Sheep farm
  • Huka Falls and Hamilton Garden
  • Flight to Christchurch
  • Fairlie Bakehouse and Alpaca farm
  • Mt John lookout
  • Lake Tekapo and Stargazing at Church of the good shepherds
  • Alpine Lavender Farm
  • Mt Cook Village and Hooker Valley track
  • Wanaka Lake front and the Lonely Tree
  • Arrowtown and Te Anau Lookout visit
  • Milford Sound Cruise Ship (2 hours)
  • Blue pools Makarora and Franz Josef Glacier Walk
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
  • Scenic Transalpine train
  • Everyday afternoon tea break: Our goal is to create a friendly group where everyone feels connected like home. Our afternoon tea break brings us together to share our member stories and reflect on a day as a close-knit team.
Add on activities
  • Rotorua spa: From NZD $45
  • Rotorua Redwood Tree Walk: From NZD $40
  • Taupo Boat Cruise: From NZD $49
  • Taupo Sky Diving: From NZD $290
  • Franz Josef Helicopter: NZD $330
  • Franz Josef – Heli-Hiking Tour NZD $795
  • Cruise on Wakatipu Lake: From NZD $99
  • Shotover Jet Boat: NZD $159
  • Bungee Jump: From NZD $299
  • Gondola + Luge Ride: From NZD $64
  • Christchurch Tram: NZD $40
  • Christchurch Avon River Punting: NZD $42

Important Notes

We aim to achieve zero waste in our tour packages. In New Zealand, tap water is safe to drink, so we’ll provide you with a bottle of water on the first day and additional bottles if needed. That would be helpful for the environment if you reuse the initial bottle and refill it throughout the trip. However, if you can’t drink tap water and require extra bottles, we’re always happy to provide.

Please note that our price is listed based on the twin share. If you would like a single supplement, kindly let us know. 

Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the tour price.

itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate the weather condition or specific requirement of the group. Any changes to the itinerary will be confirmed with you for approval. 

The minimum age to join our tours is 15 years. Participants from 15 to under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If your group includes travelers outside this age range, please inform us, and we will arrange a suitable tour for you.

The Milford Sound cruise is weather-dependent. If the cruise is canceled on the booked day, we may arrange an alternative activity, such as the vintage TSS Earnslaw cruise, and ensure the day is filled with optional activities to maximize your experience.

During winter, we may need to replace one night in Te Anau with a night in Queenstown due to bad weather conditions. Any changes to the itinerary will be confirmed with you for approval. 

Dates and availability

Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Monday, Mar 10, 2025
Saturday, Mar 22, 2025
On sale
Available
$6,999 NZD$6,499 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Monday, Mar 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Saturday, Mar 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Thursday, Apr 10, 2025
Tuesday, Apr 22, 2025
On sale
Available
$6,999 NZD$6,499 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Thursday, Apr 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Tuesday, Apr 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Thursday, May 22, 2025
On sale
Available
$6,999 NZD$6,499 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Saturday, May 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Thursday, May 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Wednesday, Sep 10, 2025
Monday, Sep 22, 2025
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Wednesday, Sep 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Monday, Sep 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Friday, Oct 10, 2025
Wednesday, Oct 22, 2025
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Friday, Oct 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Wednesday, Oct 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Monday, Nov 10, 2025
Saturday, Nov 22, 2025
Available
$6,998 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Monday, Nov 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Saturday, Nov 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025
Monday, Dec 22, 2025
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Monday, Dec 22, 2025
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Saturday, Jan 10, 2026
Thursday, Jan 22, 2026
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Saturday, Jan 10, 2026
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Thursday, Jan 22, 2026
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Tuesday, Feb 10, 2026
Sunday, Feb 22, 2026
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Tuesday, Feb 10, 2026
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Sunday, Feb 22, 2026
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Tuesday, Mar 10, 2026
Sunday, Mar 22, 2026
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Tuesday, Mar 10, 2026
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Sunday, Mar 22, 2026
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Friday, Apr 10, 2026
Wednesday, Apr 22, 2026
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Friday, Apr 10, 2026
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Wednesday, Apr 22, 2026
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Sunday, May 10, 2026
Friday, May 22, 2026
Available
$6,999 NZD

Trip dates

13
DAYS
  1. TRIP STARTS
    Auckland
    Sunday, May 10, 2026
  2. TRIP ENDS
    Christchurch
    Friday, May 22, 2026
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from
Starting
Ending
Prices from

Reviews

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Kia Ora New Zealand”