Travel from Auckland through to Queenstown on our small group tour, meeting the friendly locals and ticking off those bucket list highlights as you go.
Our fully guided Adventure tours include PRIVATE COACH TRANSPORT, dorm style accommodation, some meals and activities but also leave room for optional extras so you can make the adventure your own!
Highlights:
- Dig yourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand at Hot Water Beach
- Relax at the beach, explore the world-famous Cathedral Cove and stay beachside in the classic kiwi cabins at Hahei Beach
- Explore Middle Earth as you visit the Hobbiton Movie set and see bubbling mud pools and geysers in Rotorua.
- Take a scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest.
- Explore Kuirau Park in Rotorua where we’ll see some geothermal activity, boiling mud pools and steaming lakes!
- Experience life with a modern Maori family in an idyllic lakeside location as you feast on a traditional Hangi meal and play traditional games
- Have a soak in the naturally hot Kerosene Creek and visit the mighty Huka Falls
- Hike the incredible, other-worldly Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the most famous one-day walks in the world
- Spend two days in paradise as you explore the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Visit Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes before staying in the rainforest at Franz Josef
- Enjoy at stop at the amazing Lake Matheson, known as the mirror-lake
- Look out for the impressive Mitre Peak, lush rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife during a day trip to the iconic Milford Sound
- Relax in quality accommodation at Haka House Auckland & Queenstown.
- Free time in Hahei, Wellington, Franz Josef & Queenstown.
Important Notes:
- Tours start on a Tuesday and ends on a Friday (18 days later)
- Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 23kg plus a day pack
- A basic level of fitness is required for medium length walks
- Our itinerary is a guide. Given the spontaneous nature of our trips and lack of control over New Zealand's weather(!), what we do each day might occasionally vary.
Day 1 : Arrival Auckland
Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to Aotearoa (New Zealand) the land of the long white cloud. Make your way to your hostel and then go and explore the city, we recommend starting at the waterfront which is a downhill walk from your accommodation. Meet your Guide at 6pm for an introduction to your tour and a
complimentary welcome drink before heading out together for some dinner (own cost).
Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City (5 Turner St, Auckland CBD).
Free activities: Walk the waterfront.
Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 : Auckland to Hahei
Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ (goodbye) to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ (hello) to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. This gorgeous little place will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast eternally). When the tides are right, we’ll drive over to the nearby Hot Water Beach and dig ourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand. Who said backpackers can’t do luxury? This evening we’ll enjoy a classic Kiwi BBQ group dinner together at the resort.
Accommodation: Hahei Beach Resort or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner.
Optional activities: Kayaking or Hahei Explorer.
Free activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach.
Meals :Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 : Hahei
Today you have a full free day to explore Hahei. Take a sunrise kayak or walk to Cathedral Cove, board a boat and cruise around exploring the sea caves, chill out on the beach or enjoy a beer in the local pub. This is your time to relax in paradise so get your R&R on!
Accommodation: Hahei Beach Resort or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Optional activities: Cathedral Cove kayaking, Hahei explorer boat.
Free activities: Visit Cathedral Cove.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 4 : Hahei to Rotorua
Rise and shine for an early start this morning as you walk to Hahei Beach to watch the sunrise. Then it’s straight back into the bus for our journey to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Before we get to Rotorua, we’ll stop for an incredibly scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and then we’ll head to the home of the Hobbit and enjoy a tour of the real movie set, which was created right here in Middle Earth! When we arrive in Rotorua, head for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest and then explore the township. There are so many activities available in Rotorua - ask your guide for options!
Accommodation: Haka House Rotorua or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Included activity: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour.
Free activities: Karangahake Gorge, Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 5 : Rotorua to Lake Aniwhenua
This morning, take your pick of epic Rotorua experiences: go ziplining, plunge over a 7m waterfall, soak in the Polynesian Spa’s hot pools, or wander through Kuirau Park with its bubbling mud pools. Whether you're chasing thrills or chill time, Rotorua delivers.
In the afternoon, we head off the beaten path to Lake Aniwhenua. Here you'll be welcomed by the local Māori whānau at Kohutapu Lodge. Discover sacred rock carvings, try traditional stick games, and watch a ground-cooked hangi come to life—before digging in. Trust us, it might just be the best meal you’ll have in New Zealand (or ever).
Exclusive experience includes: 1 night’s accommodation at the serene lakeside Kohutapu Lodge, Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert, Continental breakfast, Guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings, Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history and challenges.
Accommodation: Kohutapu Lodge.
Included activity: Learn the Haka, Maori flax weaving.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, traditional hangi dinner and dessert included.
Optional activities: Rotorua Canopy tours, Rotorua Rafting, Polynesian Spa.
Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball, Maori cultural games.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 6 : Lake Aniwhenua to Taupo
Rise and shine! Enjoy your buffet breakfast and get ready for a day of jam-packed adventure. Keep your togs (swimwear) handy, because our first stop is Kerosene Creek – a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak. Then it’s on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the mighty Huka Falls, grab lunch and take a walk to explore or simply relax at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Haka House Taupo or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo.
Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 7 : Taupo to Tongariro National Park
Limber up! Today you get the chance to tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Considered one of the world’s top one-day walks, this 19 km hike takes you across a rocky plateau with dramatic volcanic peaks, craters and turquoise lakes that you (and your Instagram feed) will remember for a lifetime. The Crossing is open to walk year-round (alpine gear and guide are required in winter for an additional cost), but it is subject to the weather conditions. If the weather prevents you from doing the Crossing, there are other awesome short walks in the area. Tonight, unwind after a big day in your chalet.
Accommodation: Alpine Chalets or similar.
Included activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing (extra cost winter).
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water.
Free activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool).
Meals :Breakfast
Day 8 : Tongariro National Park to Wellington
Onwards to Wellington, the ‘coolest little capital in the world’! Wellington packs a lot of character into its downtown district, with great restaurants and bars along Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. Fill your afternoon by grabbing a craft beer at a brewery, head up on the cable car to overlook the city or take a stroll along the waterfront and Oriental Parade. Oh and, most importantly for the coffee lovers, you’ll be glad to know that Wellington’s coffee culture and cafe scene is considered one of the best in NZ.
Accommodation: Cambridge Hotel or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
Optional paid activities: Wellington Cable Car.
Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, Gumboot (welly) throwing.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 9 : Wellington
Today is a free day to explore more of Wellington, home to New Zealand’s parliament and the iconic Beehive government building. Wellington is a great place to check out the lively arts, café culture scenes or do some shopping. Today is yours to explore the sights - we also recommend viewing the excellent exhibits on display at Te Papa National Museum or head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views.
Accommodation: Cambridge Hotel or similar.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
Optional paid activities: Te Papa National Museum, Weta Workshop.
Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, Mt Victoria walk and views.
Meals :Breakfast
Day 10 : Wellington to Marahau (Abel Tasman)
Today we’ll catch an early Ferry across the Cook Strait and through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck to witness some incredible scenes and spot some wildlife. From there we’ll set off through the picturesque Marlborough region to Marahau, our accommodation is situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park - perfect for exploring arguably the best National Park in NZ.
Accommodation: The Barn Marahau.
Optional paid activities: Wine tasting.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner.
Free activities: Stargazing.
Included activity: Ferry Crossing to the South Island
Meals :Breakfast
Day 11 : Marahau (Abel Tasman)
Count yourself lucky because you have a full day to explore New Zealand’s most popular national park today. From our accommodation we’ll be picked up and taken by water taxi to Anchorage Bay, admiring the park’s natural golden sand beaches and brilliant blue waters along the way. Enjoy a picnic on the
beach before checking out Cleopatra’s Pools, moss lined fresh water pools with a natural water slide and then, we’ll walk approximately 4 hours back to our accommodation, stopping along the way to take amazing photos and swim in the secluded bays.
Accommodation: The Barn Marahau.
Included activity: Water taxi into Anchorage Bay.
Optional paid activities: Kayaking, skydiving, canyoning - (PM).
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQs.
Free activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools
Meals :Breakfast
Day 12 : Marahau (Abel Tasman) to Franz Josef
Buckle up for an awesome day driving down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast, an area known for its untamed beaches and spectacular rainforest. Through Buller Gorge and down a stretch of road named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, there’s not much phone reception but you are NOT going to need it – we dare you to peel your eyes away from the window for even just a second. We’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of coastline before continuing
on to the quaint township of Franz Josef, set amongst the rainforest. Tonight, we’ll have a group dinner together at our accommodation.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
Free activities: Buller Gorge, Pancake Rocks and blowholes, Hokitika
Meals :Breakfast
Day 13 : Franz Josef
Ice, ice baby! Get ready to experience the Franz Josef Glacier, an iconic highlight of the West Coast. Take a short drive to the beginning of the track. Hike through native bush and across glacial streams to the terminal face of the glacier for spectacular photos or just hang out at the Retreat and relax in one of NZ’s largest spa pools.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat.
Optional paid activities: Shuttle to the track.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
**Meal options:** Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
**Free activities:** Glacier hike, bush tracks, soak in the spa
Meals :Breakfast
Day 14 : Franz Josef to Queenstown
It’s another scenic journey today with plenty of photo stops. First up is the amazing Lake Matheson, known as the mirror-lake, for a short walk. We travel inland through the mountainous Haast Pass and alongside beautiful Lake Hawea and into Queenstown. Once settled, put on your dancing shoes and head out to explore this lakeside resort, there are over 100 clubs and bars to choose from in Queenstown!
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Meals :Breakfast
Day 15 : Queenstown
Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! You’ve got a full days in the adventure capital. With an awesome night life, beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place.
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront.
Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating,skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding...).
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak
Meals :Breakfast
Day 16 : Queenstown
You’ve got another full day in the adventure capital!
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront.
Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating,skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding...).
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen.
Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak
Meals :Breakfast
Day 17 : Milford Sound Day Trip
Today you’ll hop aboard the Coach and we’ll take you to the stunning and world famous Milford Sound. After a super scenic drive, you’ll board the boat and cruise across the Sound. Look out for the impressive Mitre Peak, lush rainforests and (if it’s been raining) thundering waterfalls. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot lots of amazing wildlife like Fur Seals, Penguins and Dolphins. Once you’ve snapped as many pics as you possibly can, it’s back to Queenstown where you can check out some one of the many
restaurants Queenstown has to offer - or try the famous Fergburger!
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast.
Included activity: Day trip to Milford Sound
Meals :Breakfast
Day 18 : Depart Queenstown
Today your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your guide and your new Stray mates, we hope you had a great time and we look forward to adventuring with you again in the future!
Meal inclusions: Breakfast
Meals :None
Pick up: As Day 1 is an Arrival Day, please make your way to Haka House Auckland City (5 Turner St, Auckland CBD) to check in from 2pm. The Welcome Meeting begins at 6pm.
Tour ends: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront, 88-90 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown. Check out is 10am.
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