peterpans pin
calendar_month12 days - 11 nights

12 Day KERERU Auckland to Christchurch | STRAY NZ

location_on Auckland
Christchurch location_on
calendar_mealMeals Included
calendar_monthMulti-day Tour
sentiment_calmHotel Room
sentiment_calmLocal Guide
$4105.82
per person
calendar_month
calendar_meal
Meals Included
calendar_month
Multi-day Tour

Take the pressure off, kick back, relax, soak up the scenery and let someone else do the driving. You'll travel by private, air-conditioned bus with one of our experienced and friendly guides.

The New Zealand's most scenic train ride - the TranzAlpine, is also included for an epic end of your Kereru journey!

High-quality rooms are included. You'll stay in comfy 3-4 star hotels for most of nights and high country farm or scenic lodges close to waterfront or national park in our unique destinations. 

We are fun and multi-cultural small group tours with a maximum of 24 passengers plus a driver guide per bus. Most travellers on our Journey Tours are aged between 20-50 although we have no maximum age because we believe age doesn't matter - it's all about attitude! 

Expect entertaining anecdotes, great recommendations, extra support and local insider knowledge from your charismatic guide. They know every inch of this country. You can't get this from a Google search!

Highlights:

  • Explore the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Caves
  • Take a Water Taxi to the geothermal Hot Water Beach Te Rata Bay and take an optional hike along the Tarawera Trail
  • Experience life with a modern Maori family in an idyllic lakeside location as you feast on a traditional Hangi meal and play traditional games
  • Jump on the high country 4WD Eco Safari in remote Blue Duck Station
  • Hike the world famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing
  • Cross the Cook Strait with the BlueBridge Ferry and enjoy the amazing views of the Marlborough Sounds
  • Stay in cute cabins a stone’s throw from the beach in Abel Tasman National Park and spend a day exploring the park’s natural golden sand beaches and blue waters.
  • Experience the South Island's striking landscape as you travel on the TranzAlpine Train journey
  • Free time in Rotorua, Blue Duck Station, Wellington, & Abel Tasman
  • Plenty of stops at lakes, lookouts, hikes, beaches, rivers, waterfalls and more...

Important notes:

  • Tour starts on a Wednesday and ends 12 days later on a Sunday
  • 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
  • Accommodation at Lake Aniwhenua, Blue Duck Station and Marahau (Abel Tasman) include private cabins however facilities are shared.
  • Pick up: As Day 1 is an Arrival Day, please make your way to Nesuto Stadium Hotel 40 Beach Road, Auckland to check in from 3pm. The Welcome Meeting begins at 6pm.
  • Single travellers will be put in a twin room with another single traveller of the same gender. For single travellers wanting a private room, they will need to purchase the 'Private/Sole Use' product option.
  • 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.

Minimum Age: 12
Maximum Age: 65
Fitness Requirement: Easy
Agent Restriction: 12
Group Size: 6 - 24
Operating Partner: Stray Limited
What To Bring: Hat/Sunscreen, Waterproof Jacket, Sturdy walking shoes/boots, Optional items you might want to bring: Motion sickness tablets, Insect repellent, Swimming apparel & towel , Warm clothing you can layer, Refillable water bottle

Day 1:

Arrival Day Auckland

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Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to your New Zealand adventure. Your tour begins in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), the largest city in New Zealand and home to over 2 million people and around 50 volcanoes. You can arrive at any time today and we encourage you to explore the city. Walk down to the viaduct for a spot of lunch, wander over to Britomart for a coffee or head to Commercial Bay if you’d like to do some shopping. You can check into your hotel from 3pm, and this evening you’ll meet your group and Stray guide at reception at 6pm for a welcome dinner (own cost) to get to know your new travel mates. Accommodation: Nesuto Stadium Hotel or similar. Optional activities: Have lunch at the viaduct, enjoy coffee in Britomart, go shopping at Commercial Bay.

Day 2:

Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves

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We’ll head out this morning and travel south to Waitomo, famous for its limestone caves lit by thousands of glowworms. You have the option to glide down a cave stream in a boat as you gaze as the hundreds of glittering glowworms above you, or don a wetsuit and harness and do some abseiling and rock climbing through the famous caves - whichever option you choose it will be a magical way to begin your adventure! Continuing on we’ll head for Rotorua, the North Island’s geothermal hotspot and a great place to experience Maori culture. We’ll arrive in the early evening so we’ll head straight to our hotel, which is home to a spa, swimming pool and unlimited Wi-Fi (not the norm here in New Zealand)! Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar. Meal Options: Local eateries. Optional paid activities: Waitomo Cave activities.

Day 3:

Rotorua

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Today it’s all about the Roto (Māori for ‘Lake’). After breakfast we’ll travel past the vibrant Blue and Green Lakes on our way to Lake Tarawera where the mighty volcano Mt Tarawera looms on the horizon. From there we’ll take an aqua taxi to Te Rata Bay, home to Hot Water Beach (note: not the Hot Water Beach located next to Hahei), where a hot thermal spring feeds into lake water. For those keen for a hike, take a quick soak before embarking on the 15km (4.5-5hrs) Tarawera Trail, where you’ll enjoy incredible views over Lakes Rotomahana and Tarawera. If you prefer to spend the morning in a more relaxing way, indulge in a long soak in the steamy waters, sit on the warm sands and spend your morning in geothermal heaven before heading back to Rotorua after lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll collect you from the beach to take you back to the city where you’ll have the opportunity to go white water rafting down the Kaituna River, zipline through the trees on an eco-tour, or relax at a geothermal spa. If you’d like to see some geothermal activity for free, head to Kuirau Park to see boiling mud pools and steaming lakes. Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Included activity: Water Taxi to Hot Water Beach - Te Rata Bay. Meal options: Local restaurants. Free activities: Tarawera Trail hike, Kuirau Park. Optional paid activities: Ziplining, White Water Rafting, Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa.

Day 4:

Rotorua to Lake Aniwhenua

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After a couple of days in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, it’s time to recharge our batteries and experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. After lunch, we’ll travel to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua and the incredible Kohutapu Lodge. Owned by a local Maori family whose passion about their Maori tribal heritage is matched only by their commitment to the local community. We’ll receive a welcome to the tribal lands before travelling on to Kohutapu Lodge where we’ll watch the preparation of a ground cooked 'hangi' before enjoying an afternoon tea of freshly made fried bread as we chat with the team at the lodge and practise our weaving and haka skills. In the evening, we’ll sit down and feast on our lovingly prepared hangi - this will probably be the best meal you’ll eat in New Zealand! Exclusive experience includes: ● Welcome to the tribal lands and a guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings ● Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history, and challenges ● Afternoon tea ● Mau Rakau (Maori stick games) ● Weaving Lesson ● Haka Lesson ● 1-night accommodation at the lakeside Kohutapu Lodge ● Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert ● Storytelling around the fire pit ● Continental breakfast Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins. Meals included: Breakfast, full traditional hangi dinner and dessert. Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball.

Day 5:

Lake Aniwhenua to Blue Duck Station

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This morning after our buffet breakfast we’ll say goodbye to our wonderful hosts at the lakeside lodge before departing to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the frothy Huka Falls before heading inland to Blue Duck Station for an immersive and off the grid experience. Blue Duck Station is the most sustainable high-country sheep and cattle station in New Zealand. Surrounded by the stunning Whanganui National Park, driving into the station is like entering the world of King Kong or Jurassic Park! The team at Blue Duck have made it their mission to protect their native environment for its namesake, the rare Whio (blue duck). On arrival, we’ll settle in to learn a little about daily life at the station, their interesting settlement history and their sustainability efforts before eating a home-cooked meal and relaxing around the campfire. Accommodation: Country station lodge. Meals included: Continental breakfast, Dinner. Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo. Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo.

Day 6:

Blue Duck Station

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This morning you'll jump on a 4WD and travel through native bush to the ‘Top of the World’ where you can see the three peaks of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. You’ll learn about the history of the station, see some amazing views, and enjoy a sweet ride with the crew! Later you’ll have some time to explore the station on your own. Hike to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall and spot the rare blue duck in the flesh and this evening play some games at the lodge or relax around the campfire and make s’mores. Whatever you decide, we have no doubt this will be the start of your love affair with this lush kiwi paradise! Accommodation: Country station lodge. Meals included: Continental breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Included activities: 4WD farm eco-tour. Free activities: Hike to Kaiwhakauka waterfall, evening glowworm viewing.

Day 7:

Blue Duck Station to Tongariro National Park

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This morning we rise early and make our way to Tongariro National Park to tackle what is widely regarded as the best one-day walk in the world - the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This unforgettable 19 km journey traverses an awe-inspiring landscape of volcanic peaks, vast craters, and striking turquoise alpine lakes - the kind of scenery you’ll remember long after you return home. The Crossing can be walked year-round, and when there is snow or ice present, a qualified alpine guide and specialised equipment are required (additional cost may apply). These alpine conditions - typically from May to October, but possible at any time - can make the experience even more spectacular, showcasing Tongariro in its purest form. All plans remain weather dependent for comfort and safety, and if conditions aren’t suitable, there are other excellent walks in the national park to enjoy. After an incredible day on the trails, return to your accommodation and soak in the outdoor spa while admiring the surrounding mountain views - the perfect way to unwind. Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar). Meals included: Continental breakfast. Meal options: A range of local restaurants and cafés. For Crossing, pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water. Included: Tongariro Alpine Crossing (snow & ice, extra cost). Optional paid upgrade: Alpine guide and specialist winter gear (required in snow/ice conditions).

Day 8:

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

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After breakfast we’ll head down to Wellington - New Zealand’s capital city! We humbly recommend a visit to the Te Papa National Museum first (own cost), and then you’re free to grab a craft beer at a brewery, hike to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views, take a stroll along the waterfront or simply enjoy the best cup of coffee you’ll have in New Zealand (oh yes, they are very proud of their coffee scene in Wellington!). Accommodation: Ibis Wellington or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: Local restaurants. Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views. Optional paid activities: Te Papa National Museum.

Day 9:

Wellington to Marahau (Abel Tasman)

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We’ll catch an early Bluebridge Ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island today. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck for incredible views of the Marlborough Sounds! When we arrive in Picton, the top of the South Island, we’ll set off through the picturesque Marlborough region and up to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. We’ll spend our evening in this beautiful location relaxing around the campfire and looking at the stars. Accommodation: The Barn or similar. Meals included: 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. Optional paid activities: Wine tasting.

Day 10:

Marahau (Abel Tasman)

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Today is a free day in Abel Tasman National Park. From our accommodation we can hike straight into the park (no water taxi required) and walk the Abel Tasman Coastal track up to Anchorage Bay. The park is full of lush bush and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the golden sand beaches and swim in the brilliant blue waters throughout your journey. The walk is approximately 4 hours each way but you can get a water taxi back if you’d like extra time to soak it all in. Accommodation: The Barn or similar. Meals included: Continental breakfast. Meal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for the 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. Optional paid activities: Kayaking, water taxi, canyoning, sailing.

Day 11:

Marahau (Abel Tasman) to Christchurch

Today we’re heading down New Zealand’s wild West Coast! A super scenic drive, this area is known for its untamed beaches and masses of lush rainforest. Named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, this road offers views for days! We’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of coastline and then we’ll head into Hokitika, famous for its arts scene and greenstone (pounamu). Our accommodation tonight is located on the shores of the Tasman Sea. Treat yourself to some dinner in their Ocean View restaurant or go for a walk and explore Hokitika. We highly recommend a visit to sunset point where you can explore the Tambo ‘shipwreck’, see amazing views of Hokitika beach with Aoraki Mt Cook in the distance and watch the sun setting over the horizon. Once it’s dark, go for a walk to the glowworm dell and see the glittering lights above you before heading back to your accommodation for a peaceful night of rest. Accommodation: Hokitika Beachfront Hotel or similar. Meals included: Continental breakfast. Meal options: Local eateries. Free activities: Head down to Hokitika Beach for sunset.

Day 12:

Depart Christchurch

This morning we highly recommend exploring Christchurch. Wander the city streets and laneways to discover creative street art intended to bring cheer and colour to a city once buried in rubble, check out the incredible modern shopping district, go for a beer at one of the quirky local pubs, spend an hour punting down the avon river, explore the stunning botanical gardens or hop on the historic tourist tram and see it all! As today is our final day, our adventure is coming to an end and we can’t believe it’s over! We hope everyone had a blast and remains Stray Mates for 4ever! Meals included: Breakfast

  • 11 nights twin-share Accommodation (single private upgrades available)
  • Experienced tour guide
  • Scenic inter-Island Ferry
  • Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience & Hangi
  • 4WD Eco tour at Blue Duck Station
  • 11 Breakfasts, 1 Lunches, 3 Dinners
  • Private coach transport
  • Water Taxi to Hot Water Beach Te Rata Bay
  • Lake Taupo visit
  • Huka Falls
  • Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (snow & ice, extra cost)
  • Time to explore Abel Tasman National Park
  • Trip to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
  • TranzAlpine Train journey
  • Loads of walks, wildlife, waterfalls, lakes, beaches, lookouts and so much more...

Departures & Pickups

Starts: Wednesday in Auckland. Arrive at Nesuto Stadium Hotel, Auckland CBD at any time on DAY 1. Check in at the hotel is from 3pm. The group dinner is at 6pm.

Finishes: Sunday in Christchurch. Scenic Hotel Cotlswold, 88/96 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch. Check out by 10am.

Duration: 12 days/ 11 nights

 

Optional acitivites & meals not specified

Bookings Terms & Conditions

These booking terms and conditions apply to bookings you make with Peterpans Adventure Travel PTY LTD (ACN 673 404 389) trading as Peterpans Travel (whether over the phone or by email) as well as online bookings you make on our website. We will rely on the authority of the person making the booking to act on behalf of any other traveller on the booking and that person will bind all such travellers to these terms and conditions.

The ticket(s) (“voucher(s)”) for your travel or experience are booked by us on your behalf with various Service Providers. Each Service Provider may have their own terms and conditions applying to your travel. It is important that you read the relevant and corresponding brochure for each of your bookings in order to understand all applicable terms and conditions. If you require additional information to that contained in the brochure then we recommend that you contact the Service Provider for further clarification.

BOOKING CONFIRMATIONS

Your responsibilities: Open tickets: You must book your travel dates in advance with the individual Service Provider as per the details provided on your voucher.

Tickets with booked dates: It is your responsibility to ensure you redeem your vouchers on the dates booked. If you wish to change these dates you must organise it with the Service Provider directly, with adequate notice. You must reconfirm all booked dates 48 hours prior to travel (minimum guide only) or in the manner stated on your voucher. If applicable, dietary requirements should also be confirmed at this time.

CANCELLATIONS and REFUNDS

Credit card fees, and additional fees paid to us for deposits of accommodation, transport and luggage storage are not transferable or refundable.
Please note that deposits on bookings are also non-refundable but may be used as credit towards future bookings.

Cancellations by service providers

If a service provider cancels your booking for any reason you WILL NOT be charged any cancellation fee and will be entitled to a full refund (other than any amount we are charged on your behalf by the service provider). ALL TRANSPORT AND ACCOMMODATION is NON-REFUNDABLE, in some cases it may be transferable.

Cancellations by you outside of 14 days from the date of travel

Where you provide us with at least 14 days’ notice that you wish to cancel your booking for any reason, you will be charged a 10% cancellation fee and will be entitled to a refund (in addition to any amount we are charged on your behalf by the service provider) or can transfer, with no fee, any balance (in addition to any amount we are charged as a cancellation fee on your behalf by the service provider) to a new booking or credit voucher. ALL TRANSPORT AND ACCOMMODATION is NON-REFUNDABLE, in some cases it may be transferable.

Cancellations by you within 14 days of the date of travel

Where you provide us with less than 14 days notice that you wish to cancel your booking for any reason, you will be charged a 30% cancellation fee and will be entitled to a refund ( in addition to any amount we are charged on your behalf by the service provider) or can transfer, with a $30 per product transfer fee, any balance (in addition to any amount we are charged as a cancellation fee on your behalf by the service provider) to a new booking or credit voucher. ALL TRANSPORT AND ACCOMMODATION is NON REFUNDABLE, in some cases they may be transferable.

In addition, if a Service Provider charges us for the cancelled travel you must also pay us the amount that we are charged on your behalf by the Service Provider. It is, therefore, possible your cancellation fees could be up to 100% of the cost of the booking, regardless of whether travel has commenced (for example cancellations made within 24hrs of travel or certain flight bookings). The Cancellation Fee will apply in all cases where a tour is able to run. For example, if you are unable to reach a tour due to an “act of God” (for example a road is cut off due to flooding) the normal Cancellation Fee will apply if the tour still runs in your absence or would have run but for your absence. If a tour or other travel service is cancelled by the Service Provider, we will refund you in full the amount paid for the tour or other travel service. This full refund is subject to a fully refundable amount being given to our agency from the supplier who is cancelling. We highlight here that all suppliers have different cancellation terms.

All refunds will occur in the local currency and will be refunded to the same card that payment was made with. If your credit card uses a different currency, the amount refunded may be different from the original amount paid due to exchange rate fluctuations. We are not liable for these fluctuations, or any fees your bank charges.

Please note that in the case of natural disasters (e.g. flood, fire, cyclone, etc.), many Service Providers do not offer refunds, and we may therefore be unable to provide a refund to you. We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover this situation.

The 10% or 30% agency cancellation fee does not apply to: Dive Courses where you fail a Dive Medical test; or Skydives cancelled by the Service Provider within 3 days of booking due to weather, in which case a full refund will apply.

Where a refund or other payment applies, you may choose to transfer the full cost of your booking to another tour. However, a transfer fee of $30 may apply. While we aim to process refunds swiftly, high-demand situations (such as natural disasters) may result in delays.

We strongly recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy at the time of booking to protect yourself against unexpected cancellations and changes. Depending on your policy, your insurance provider may cover up to 100% of cancellation fees and other costs incurred. Cancellation fees for tours and bus bookings can be up to 100%, so having appropriate coverage can help minimise financial risk.

Please act responsibly and with respect on your travels. All Service Providers reserve the right to cancel bookings based on recommendation from another provider due to misconduct/misbehaviour during another stage of their trip. We will treat this as any normal cancellation and charge the above-mentioned Cancellation Fee, plus any Service Provider fees.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We endorse the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that all travellers take out travel insurance. It is your personal responsibility to purchase your own travel insurance to cover any liability which may be incurred to us or a Service Provider and other travel misadventures that you wish to be insured against. We recommend that you source travel insurance with a low excess payment, to make claiming on cancelled tours worthwhile.

SERVICE PROVIDERS

We endeavour to package tours that will meet your expectations. However, we take no responsibility for any matters that arise with regard to or during individual tours or arrangements with individual Service Providers. We appreciate your feedback, whether complaints, compliments or suggestions. However, to the extent permitted by law we will not be responsible to you for any loss, expense or damage that you may suffer during any particular tour, accommodation or travel, no matter the cause. These matters are the responsibility of each individual Service Provider and you agree that you will not hold us liable in any such circumstance.

TOUR DETAILS

The inclusions, departure details and itinerary points of each tour and activity listed on our websites are current as of the last product update. We endeavour to reflect up-to-date information on all website pages but will not be held accountable for changes from suppliers which are yet to be reflected on site. Upon booking we ask that you review details listed in your vouchers as these will be the most reliable.

PRICES

We endeavour to package the best value tours available at the best prices. However, we take no responsibility for price fluctuations arising from changes in the prices charged by Service Providers occurring before final payment. The price of your travel is subject to change until such time as you pay for the travel in full.

EXTRA COSTS

Many tours have extra costs and you should be aware that there may be added expenses. These expenses will differ for each Service Provider but some of the more usual extras may include: EMC Tax, Stinger suit Hire, Luggage storage, Sleeping Bag Hire, Linen Hire, National Park Fee, Food, Insurance, Accommodation, Equipment Hire, Petrol Levy. We will alert you to extra costs to the extent reasonably practicable. However, you must also check with each individual Service Provider when you confirm your voucher.

PASSPORT and VISAS

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have valid passports, visas and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility. All travellers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return and some countries require a machine-readable passport. Transfers between tours may incur a $30 administration fee.

By proceeding with a purchase via our Call Centre or Website you declare that you have read, understood, acknowledge and agree to the terms and conditions of this booking and if your booking is accepted, you will be bound by these terms and conditions.

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location_on Peterpans Cairns Esplanade 83A Esplanade Cairns, 4870 Queensland, Australia