Queenstown
Lake Tekapo
Christchurch
Kaikoura
Wellington
Auckland
Day 1: QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE TEKAPO
We head out of Queenstown, through the Lindis Pass, so get your cameras ready because this is ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. After stopping to admire Mt Cook at Lake Pukaki, we travel to Lake Tekapo with its amazing location by snow-capped alps and clear starry skies. Lake Tekapo has something for everyone - relaxing at the lakeside and taking in the untouched view, soaking in the hot springs, discovering one of the many scenic walkways or checking out the mind-boggling stars in what is the world’s largest dark sky reserve.
Day 2: LAKE TEKAPO TO CHRISTCHURCH
We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand. Witness a city rebuilding and flourishing in the wake of the 2011 earthquakes, explore the street art, see the blooming botanical gardens, and learn about the history of a city that’s experienced so much in recent times.
Day 3: CHRISTCHURCH TO KAIKOURA
Departing Christchurch, we arrive in Kaikoura in time for you to check out what it's most famous for – whale watching or swimming with the dolphins. Spend the evening chilling on the beach or sampling some of the best seafood New Zealand offers for your dinner. The name Kaikoura means to eat crayfish (“kai” means to eat, “koura” means crayfish).
Day 4: KAIKOURA TO WELLINGTON
We head north and take in the last of the dramatic Kaikoura coastline. It’s a spectacular drive and we stop for a close look at the seals that lay about on the rocks. We make our way to the Picton ferry terminal in time to catch the afternoon sailing to the North Island. Say farewell to the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu) and we’re on our way! The ferry ride takes a few hours so chill out and enjoy the view of the amazing Marlborough Sounds before arriving into the capital city in the evening.
Day 5: WELLINGTON TO AUCKLAND EXPRESS SERVICE VIA TAUPO AND ROTORUA
Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your own adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further! The bus will stop for pick-ups and drop-offs only.
Let's head north! We'll depart from Wellington, leaving the wind behind as we head towards the gumboot capital, Taihape. Next, we'll traverse the Central Plateau, home to the awe-inspiring Tongariro National Park.
Calling all lake lovers! Our first stop en route to Auckland is Taupō, hop-off the bus and soak in the beauty of New Zealand's largest freshwater lake. The bus will then continue to Rotorua – hop off the bus and explore the geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture in Rotorua. Or keep rolling with us through the scenic countryside towards Auckland, the vibrant "City of Sails."
Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further!
Accommodation in Taupo and Rotorua is at your own arrangement, and cannot be booked with Kiwi Experience.
Start Queenstown finish Auckland
Minimum travel time 6 days
Maximum travel time 12 months from the first day of travel
PASS INCLUDES TRANSPORT ONLY
