Discover New Zealand landscapes on this 13 day small group tour. Begin your journey in the North Island and discover the beaches and landscapes before trekking south to the snow dusted mountains where rivers and lakes will be a sight you see often.
This itinerary creates the perfect hybrid of authentic New Zealand experiences, geothermal delights and hot pools to relax your mind and body.
Highlights
Explore the stunning beaches of the Coromandel
Marvel at the Glowworms in Waitomo
Immerse yourself in the Māori culture in Rotorua
Visit the vibrant capital of Wellington
Spot marine wildlife in Kaikoura
Discover the vibrant city of Christchurch
Walk in the shadows of Mt Cook
Experience the thrills of adventure capital Queenstown
Day 1: Welcome to Auckland - Arrival
Welcome to Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, where your Grand Kiwi Experience Tour begins. The "City of Sails" as Auckland is affectionately known, is New Zealand's largest city. Nestled between two stunning harbours, Auckland offers a unique blend of urban sophistication, natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and outdoor adventures.
If you have time today, stroll along the iconic Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter or explore Britomart. Need a longer walk? Stretch your legs and walk to Mission Bay, hop on a ferry to Rangitoto Island and climb to the summit of a dormant volcano. If culture is more your thing, Auckland offers an array of museums and galleries to explore. Ride to the top of Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower and enjoy the 360 views.
Your accommodation tonight will be at LyLo Auckland. Check in here from 2pm. This evening at 7pm, get to know your fellow travellers and Kiwi Experience Small Group Tour Driver Guide during a welcome evening.
Day 2: Auckland to Hot Water Beach
Departing Auckland we head southeast to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel and the world-famous Cathedral Cove (included). This afternoon, experience the breathtaking natural rock formation at Cathedral Cove. Go on a short walk to explore the cove by foot or embark on an ocean adventure. Hop aboard the Hahei Explorer and explore the area by boat, or if you feel like putting some effort in, Cathedral Cove Kayaks is the perfect option too. On this unique surf beach, if you catch the tide right, you can dig a hole in the sand to create your personal hot spa pool.
Day 3: Coromandel to Waitomo
Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind, we start our journey to the magical underground world of Waitomo. En route, explore the Karangahake Gorge, located at the base of the Coromandel Range. This historic walkway follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi and offers an impressive glimpse into the remains of a once-booming gold mining and railway era.
Back aboard the bus, we continue south to Waitomo. In Māori, 'wai' means water, and 'tomo' means hole. Waitomo is more than caves and glowworms; it's a cultural hub rich in Māori history, myths and legends. Some of the cave guides are descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau, the original explorer of the caves. You'll have the opportunity to explore the incredible formations and marvel at the glowworms inside the Ruakuri cave on a 90-minute tour.
Feeling adventurous? Opt to head underground with the Legendary Black Water Rafting Company and upgrade to the Black Labyrinth tour or Black Abyss tour — jump off underground waterfalls and enjoy millions of glowworms lighting your way as you float down an underground river.
Day 4: Waitomo to Rotorua
There is no better way to start the day than by walking in nature, and Ruakuri Reserve offers the perfect morning walk. This spectacular loop highlights the sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches unique to the Waitomo area. We then leave the enchanting Waitomo district and head to an equally enchanting land, Hobbiton. Here you will have the option to join other Hobbiton movie enthusiasts on a guided tour of the famous movie set. After you’ve geeked out over this neck of the woods, we head to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal wonderland.
This evening we will head over to Mitai Māori Village to learn about the culture of Māori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Be immersed in culture and traditions through authentic experiences and then enjoy a traditional hangi dinner.
Day 5: Rotorua Free Day
Rotorua offers plenty of experiences to keep you busy on your free day here. For the adventurous, explore the treetops on a network of ziplines with Rotorua Canopy Tours or roll downhill on a giant inflatable ball with Zorb. For those who prefer a more cultural experience, take part in a local Jade Carving workshop.
Check out Kuirau Park, a geothermal wonderland located just a short walk from our accommodation. Included today is entry to a relaxing thermal spa, Wai Ariki Hot Springs. Nestled perfectly by the shores of Lake Rotorua, this is the place to unwind and relax in culture and tradition.
Day 6: Rotorua to Wellington
This morning we leave the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and head to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. The locals say you cannot beat Welly on a good day, so let’s hope it is a beautiful day when we arrive. Along the way, we will stop off at the famous Huka Falls and stretch our legs on a brief walk around the falls before continuing our journey south to Wellington.
Day 7: Wellington Free Day
Today in Wellington the decisions are all yours! Head along to Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum and learn about history — maybe leave with some new facts to wow your friends and family!
Fuel your afternoon with excitement! Rent an e-bike and cruise along Wellington's stunning waterfront with Switched on Bikes, or immerse yourself in nature at Zealandia, a haven for native wildlife. Discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city and let your adventurous spirit soar.
Day 8: Wellington to Kaikoura
We bid farewell to the North Island and depart Wellington to board the interisland ferry for an awe-inspiring sailing across the Cook Strait. Regarded as one of the most beautiful inter-island crossings in the world, enjoy the deck and marvel at the stunning Marlborough Sounds as we dock at the top of the South Island.
Our drive to Kaikoura will take us through the gorgeous Marlborough District, home to countless internationally renowned vineyards and distilleries, stopping for a tasting or two along the way (included). Our day concludes with a drive along the breathtaking coastline as we make our way to Kaikoura. Known for abundant marine life, this is your chance to encounter magnificent whales (seasonal), playful dolphins and graceful seals. Join an optional tour to take in the wildlife on offer.
Day 9: Kaikoura to Christchurch
Start your day with a sleep-in, or for the more adventurous, head out to sea to witness the spectacular marine life of Kaikoura up close — dolphins, whales, seals, and albatross, to name a few. Jump in the water and spend your morning swimming with dolphins, or enjoy a dolphin or whale watching experience.
Today also calls for a visit to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway to meet the local seal colony before hitting the road to Christchurch. This afternoon in Christchurch is yours to explore — it’s a city with so much to do, you won’t be left bored.
Day 10: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Let’s hit the road and cruise into the magnificent Mackenzie Country, home to stunning scenery, wide open spaces, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands, and dazzlingly starry skies.
We will visit one of the region’s most famous and photographed icons, the Church of The Good Shepherd, located on the stunning lakefront of Lake Tekapo. Stretch your legs on a walk up Mt John and enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and Mackenzie Basin flats. Tonight calls for relaxation at the serene Tekapo Hot Springs.
Day 11: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
Get excited as we head towards the adrenaline capital of New Zealand — Queenstown. But first, we’ll spend some time discovering the beautiful Mt Cook area along the way. The Hooker Valley Track is the most iconic and best day walk within the national park. Enjoy the views as the track winds past glaciers and in the shadows of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
This evening in Queenstown, enjoy dinner with the rest of the crew.
Day 12: Queenstown Activities Day
Queenstown has something for everyone. Seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Bungy jumping, jet boating, white water rafting, and skydiving are all available.
If a more relaxed pace is calling, hire a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or visit one of the many vineyards in the area.
Day 13: Queenstown Free Day
Today is yours to explore Queenstown, but our best suggestion is an optional experience you won’t regret — a day trip to Milford Sound. Our first stop is in the quaint town of Te Anau for a bite before continuing the breathtaking drive toward Milford Sound with scheduled photo stops.
Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, rich in geological formations and captivating waterfalls. Enjoy a two-hour scenic boat cruise through the fiord; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife — you might even spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.
Depart Auckland
Arrive in Queenstown
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