New Zealand Highlights - 21 Days



Who is this trip for
Age range
18 - 35Start / End
- Auckland
- Queenstown
Physical rating
Group size
7 - 18Meals included
0Highlights
- Auckland
- Hobbiton
- Te Pa Tu Maori Village
- Hot Water Beach
- Whale Watching
- Milford Sound
- Queenstown
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Summary
Discover the very best of New Zealand on our ULTIMATE Highlights tour. This action-packed journey takes you from Auckland to Queenstown, stopping at iconic destinations such as Hobbiton, Rotorua, Wellington, Mount Cook, and Queenstown. Cruise through the 8th wonder of the world, tour the famous Lord of The Rings movie set, experience a geothermal wonderland, explore a traditional Māori village, and so much more!
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to New Zealand
Kia Ora and welcome to NZ! Your New Zealand Highlights adventure kicks off today in Auckland – the country’s biggest and busiest city. We’ll hit up all the local hotspots to get you familiar with the place. You’ll also get to meet your new travel crew and your group leader will give you the full lowdown on what’s coming up over the next few weeks. Tonight, we all catch up again for a chilled-out welcome dinner!
Day 2
Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach
Visit Cathedral Cove Beach which is one of New Zealand's most iconic photo spots, renowned for its picture-perfect archway. That evening explore Hot Water Beach, a natural geothermal hotspot where you can create your very own hot tub!
Day 3
Auckland Free Day
Day 3 is a free day for you to enjoy New Zealand's largest and busiest city at your leisure.
Day 4
Hobbiton
Get ready for another full day of adventure! Depart Auckland and journey to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set for a guided tour. Explore famous Hobbit holes, learn behind-the-scenes stories, and enjoy a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Lunch is included. In the afternoon, continue south to Rotorua, your next adventure hub.
Day 5
Discover Rotorua
Enjoy a day pass to Hell’s Gate Mud Spa, where geothermal forces meet the sky.
Day 6
Rotorua & Te Pā Tū
Rotorua is the heart of both New Zealand's Māori culture and its geothermal activity. Experience a traditional Māori Village, Te Pā Tū presents culture and cuisine, while proudly sharing Māori history and traditions.
Day 7
Rotorua Activity Day
Your free time in Rotorua is where you can decide to tap into your adrenaline and book White Water Rafting, sailing down in the world's tallest commercial waterfall!
Day 8
Lake Taupo
Next stop - Taupo, home to Australasia’s largest lake—about the same size as Singapore! It also feeds into Huka Falls, the most powerful waterfall in New Zealand. Your Group Leader will take you on a guided walk to the Huka Falls Lookout for some epic views.
Day 9
Māori Catamaran Cruise
Today you’ll also get to experience the river up close with an afternoon catamaran cruise. Hop on board for a swim, catch the sunset, and sail past the iconic Māori Rock Carvings. And the best part? We’ll throw in a free drink and some pizza to enjoy while you cruise!
Day 10
Wellington Free Day
On this free day in the nations capital you can enjoy the vibrant art and music scene. Or you'll have the opportunity to visit the Te Papa National Museum. Here you can learn all about New Zealand history and the battle of Gallipoli.
Day 11
Wellington to Kaikoura Ferry
You will then board the Interislander Ferry with your group you'll head to Kaikōura.
Day 12
Kaikoura Whale Watching
Kaikōura is the whale watching capital of New Zealand. Tick this bucket list experience off with an included whale watching cruise, then take some time to relax and soak up the stunning coastal views in this beautiful seaside town.
Day 13
Christchurch
Spend a night enjoying the chilled and cultural vibes of Christchurch.
Day 14
Lake Tekapo
Next, you'll make your way to the stunning Lake Tekapo for a two-night retreat. Famous as the #1 stargazing spot in the Southern Hemisphere, we’ll be hoping for clear skies so you and your crew can enjoy a night to remember under the stars.
Day 15
Lake Tekapo
Today is a Tekapo free day. You can either visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd or swim in the Tekapo Hot Springs.
Day 16
Mount Cook
You’ll depart Tekapo to head to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Here you'll enjoy a guided day trip through the stunning Southern Alps. Join a group tour around the base, or upgrade to an Alpine Scenic Flight for epic views. Prefer to chill? Soak up the fresh mountain air and grab a bite with a view. Then it’s off to Queenstown—New Zealand’s Adventure Capital!
Day 17
Queenstown
Spend 5 epic days in the backpacker and adrenaline capital of New Zealand - Queenstown!
Day 18
Milford Sound
You’ll also head out on a day trip to Milford Sound for an epic boat cruise through the 8th wonder of the world, with massive waterfalls, rugged mountains, and unreal scenery all around.
Day 19
Queenstown
Today’s a free day to relax—or, if you’re up for it, jump into some once-in-a-lifetime adventures! Take the leap with a 15,000 ft skydive or conquer the AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy, the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Day 20
Queenstown
Free / activity day in Queenstown
Day 21
Tour End
Today our New Zealand Highlights Adventure comes to an end.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hostel
Meals
Breakfasts: 0, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 0
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Oct 25
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Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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