New Zealand Epic

Kauri forests, lakes & the Far North.

We leave Auckland behind and head north, stopping along the way to ease into the adventure.

On the way, we'll stop at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, where you’ll learn the story of New Zealand’s mighty kauri trees and early pioneers.

After a lunch stop in Dargaville, we cool off with a visit to the stunning Kai Iwi Lakes - crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by native forest. Later, we venture into the legendary Waipoua Forest, home to Tāne Mahuta, the largest living kauri tree in New Zealand. Depending on timing, your Waipoua experience takes place either today or tomorrow.

We finish the day on the west coast in Omapere, checking into our beachfront accommodation. Tonight, enjoy a relaxed fish & chips dinner (included) as the sun sets over the Tasman Sea.

West Coast to Bay of Islands

This morning is all about flexibility. If we didn’t visit Waipoua yesterday, you’ll explore the forest today - either en route or via a complimentary local shuttle.

We’ll then cross the Far North toward the east coast, stopping at a winery after lunch for a relaxed wine tasting before arriving in Paihia later in the afternoon. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day and evening are completely free.

Take time to unwind by the waterfront, choose from a range of optional activities, or simply explore this vibrant Bay of Islands town at your own pace.

Free Day in the Bay of Islands

Today is yours to design.

Spend the day exactly how you like - cruise the Bay of Islands, go dolphin spotting, kayak to secluded beaches, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or simply enjoy a relaxed day by the water with great food and ocean views.

Your included Waitangi Treaty Grounds combo pass allows you to explore the grounds at your own pace. Your guide will be on hand throughout the day to help arrange optional activities or share local tips.

In the evening, you’ll come together for an included Hāngī dinner at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds - a traditional Māori feast and cultural experience.

We journey south today with a few unforgettable stops along the way.

Our first highlight is a stop in the charming Matakana Village. Enjoy some free time to relax over lunch, browse the boutique shops and local galleries, or sample the region’s renowned wines at The Vintry, which offers tastings from a selection of local vineyards. It’s the perfect laid-back way to wrap up your Northland adventure before returning to Auckland in the late afternoon.

After a few scenic stops on the stunning drive to Coromandel Peninsula, we arrive into the coastal town of Hahei. Explore the Gateway to Narnia at Cathedral Cove, spend the afternoon kayaking or swimming in the turquoise waters then catch the sunset from the natural hot pools on Hot Water Beach.

Say goodbye to the Coromandel as we head to Rotorua. On the way, we stop at the Thermal Wonderland Wai-O-Tapu where you will discover a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity.

Dive into a jam-packed day at the geothermal and cultural centre of New Zealand, Rotorua. Luging, zorbing, white water rafting, cultural performances or simply marvelling at the unique geothermal landscape; there’s heaps to do here! In the evening you'll have the option to visit the magical Mitai Maori Village. Here, you can learn and engage with Maori culture and traditions and enjoy a delicious hangi meal.

For the next part of our journey, we head to Taupo, the adventure capital of the North Island. We'll stop at Hobbiton on the way for you to experience the world-famous LOTR movie set. Next, you'll discover the thundering Huka Falls and its trout-filled rivers before we head for a sunset beer by the stunning Lake Taupo. In the evening, you can head out on the lake for an evening sailing cruise or try one of the fantastic local restaurants.

Explore the magnificent lake jetboating, sailing, or from 15,000ft above. Fancy a hike? Spend the day conquering one of the best one-day walks in the world, Tongariro Crossing. Whatever you choose, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Taupō!

The adventure continues to Waitomo, a town better known for what’s beneath it. Crawl, abseil, raft and squeeze your way through the dark abyss, lit only by the twinkling light of the glow worms above. After all that adventure it’s time for a beer on the beach in Raglan.

Raglan is New Zealand’s quintessential iconic laid-back surfer town. You’ll have the chance to explore the rugged landscape, and unique black sand beach and catch a few waves. Then we head back to Auckland to catch a flight to Christchurch to continue your epic adventure in the South.

The South Island kicks off from Christchurch as we head for the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo at one of New Zealand’s most insta-worthy spots. Explore the local bike trails before you relax in the lakeside hot springs for some stargazing at the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.

Today we’ll head to the adrenaline capital of New Zealand – Queenstown! Before we head off you’ll have time to do a few activities or fit in any walks you didn’t do yesterday. Once we arrive, we’ll head to your accommodation for the next three days and get you settled in then it’s off exploring! Queenstown is the perfect place to tick off a number of items off your bucket list, with everything on offer from skydiving, and bungy jumping to canyoning and ziplining.

Larger-than-life waterfalls, ancient forests, awe-inspiring mountainscapes and leaping dolphins, welcome to UNESCO-listed Milford Sound. After taking in the spectacular scenery cruising the fiord, kick back with a beer, drop into a party or devour NZ’s famous burger - the Fergburger.

Bungy jumps, canyon swings, or horse riding; whatever your adventure threshold, there’s something in Queenstown for you to choose from! Try one of New Zealand’s most scenic skydives, hit the trails for a bike ride, go luging or jet boat up the canyon.

After a break in picturesque Wanaka, prepare to be dazzled as we travel along rugged coastline beside ancient rainforests, icy glaciers, and crashing waterfalls as we head over Haast Pass, before we arrive at the gateway to glacier country – Franz Josef.

Crampons at the ready, Franz Josef could be the most beautiful place you'll ever set your eyes on. Explore the stunning formations made over thousands of years, where you can hike, helicopter - or both! Want something at a lower altitude? Quad bike, kayak, or relax in glacier hot pools, before kicking back with a cold drink to soak it all in.

After a quick stop off at beautiful Hokitika, experience a spectacular journey through Arthur’s Pass amongst the stunning snow-capped Southern Alps. Then it's back to Christchurch where our epic journey comes to an end. Fear not, we’ll say our goodbyes, hug it out, and leave with stacks of great memories.