peterpans pin
calendar_month19 days - 18 nights

The Chilled Kiwi – 19 days – AKL > CHC

location_on Auckland
Christchurch location_on
calendar_monthMulti-day Tour
sentiment_calmOptional Add Ons
sentiment_calmLocal Guide
$3934.41
per person
calendar_month
calendar_month
Multi-day Tour

Discover the serene beauty of New Zealand with our Chilled Kiwi Small Group Tour. This intimate journey is designed for those who seek a relaxed and immersive experience, away from the hustle and bustle of larger tour groups.

Highlights:

  • Breathtaking Landscapes: Explore the stunning natural scenery, from lush green hills to pristine beaches and majestic mountains.
  • Local Flavors: Savor the taste of New Zealand with visits to local wineries, farmers' markets, and charming cafes.
  • Cultural Experiences: Engage with the rich Maori culture through traditional performances, art, and storytelling.
  • Adventure and Relaxation: Enjoy a perfect balance of thrilling activities like hiking and kayaking, along with plenty of downtime to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
  • Personalized Attention: With a small group size, you'll receive personalized attention from our knowledgeable guides, ensuring a memorable and tailored experience.

Join us on the Chilled Kiwi Small Group Tour and create unforgettable memories in one of the world's most beautiful destinations.


Minimum Age: 18
Maximum Age: 35
Fitness Requirement: Low
Agent Restriction: 18
Group Size: 4 - 22
Operating Partner: Kiwi Experience (THL) (2023 Verified)
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-free optoins available on request
Luggage Limit: 23kg
What To Bring: Reusable water bottle , 1 pair of walking shoes (probably not your brand new pair! These may get dirty), Reusable shopping bag (don't worry if you don't have one, they are readily available in NZ)

Day 1:

Welcome to Auckland

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.

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 and get the best of both worlds. 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 Labyrnith 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 your have 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 Maori Village to learn about the culture of Maori, 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 park in a local Jade Carving workshop. The option to Check-out Kuirau Park, a geothermal wonderland located just a short walk from our accommodation is also a great way to spend the morning. 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 Zealands capital city, Wellington. The locals say you cannot beat Welly on a good day so lets 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 hopping back aboard and 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 and maybe leave with some new facts you can wow your friends and family with! Fuel your afternoon with excitement! Rent an e-bike (optional paid activity) and cruise along Wellington's stunning waterfront with Switched on Bikes, or immerse yourself in nature at Zealandia, a haven for native wildlife (optional paid activity). 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 with a breathtaking coastline as we make our way to the coastal town of Kaikoura. Kaikoura is 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 breathtaking 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 if you would rather keep your distance, a dolphin OR whale watching experience is perfect for you. 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 would be for you to get out and explore, it is a city with so much to do so you would not 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. The church is built in memory of the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. 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 will spend some of today discovering the beautiful Mt Cook area along the way. The Hooker Valley Track is the most iconic and best day walk located within the national park. Enjoy the views as the track winds past glaciers and in the shadows of mountains, most namingly Mount Cook, New Zealands highest mountain. This evening in Queenstown enjoy a dinner with the rest of the crew.

Day 12:

Queenstown Activities Day

Queenstown has something for everyone; here, you can seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Each season offers its own unique vibe, and most activities can be accessed all year round. If you’re looking for adrenaline, bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting and sky diving 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 enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area.

Day 13:

Queenstown Free Day

Today is yours to explore Queenstown but our best suggestion on how to spend your day is an optional experience but one that is sure to impress and one you will not regret. A trip to the South Island would only be complete with a trip to Piopiotahi, Milford Sound. Our first stop of the day is in the quaint town of Te Anau where there is options to fuel up before continuing the breathtaking drive towards Milford Sound with scheduled photo stops along the way. Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, known for its pristine wildlife, which marvels at any time of year and in any weather; Milford Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and, unsurprisingly, one of the most amazing scenic day trips to do in New Zealand. Enjoy a two-hour scenic boat cruise through the inky blackwater; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife; if you’re really lucky, you’ll spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.

Day 14:

Queenstown to Lake Hawea

This morning we leave the beautiful Queenstown and head around a few corners, around the mountains and make our way to Wanaka and Lake Hawea. Along the way, let's stop in for a visit in Arrowtown, a town that is famous for its mining history. Next up, stretching of our legs during a walk at the famous Roys Peak. Enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring before we head back and enjoy the evening spent in Hawea.

Day 15:

Lake Hawea to Franz Josef

Today we leave Hawea and head north to the stunning Franz Josef area which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous 12km long glacier. Get up close to the glacier itself, enjoy some of the activities in the area and be prepared to be blown away by the natural beauty of the area.

Day 16:

Franz Josef Activities Day

Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, and the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. Immerse yourself in a unique opportunity today - carving your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewellery (included). You’ll learn more about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and depart with your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand. You’ll then get to explore the Franz Josef glacier, an ever-changing landscape of ice. Opt for the Heli-Hike adventure, allowing you to walk on top of the glacier itself. For a free option, walk through the rainforest to a viewing area where the icy wonderland lies just 750m away.

Day 17:

Franz Josef to Hanmer Springs

Today we leave the depths of the mountains & glaciers and head north towards Hanmer Springs, a town located in the Canterbury region still home to mountainous views and best known for its natural hot pools. Before we leave the awe-inspiring Franz Josef area, we will spend our morning learning at the West Coast Widllife Centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation and wildlife through interactive experiences.

Day 18:

Hanmer Springs Free Day

Hanmer Springs is the ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence, and you’ve got a free day to explore this remarkable town. Today you have an entry ticket to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa where you can soak in the 22 outdoor thermal pools, complete with four hydroslides and the New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill.

Day 19:

Hanmer Springs To Christchurch

After an action-packed and rejuvenated stay in Hanmer Springs, we'll cruise on through to Christchurch. Before leaving Hanmer Springs, enjoy a brief walk through the beautiful heritage forest located here and keep a look out for large wooden animal sculptures along the way. These animals are all delicately crafted out of redwood tree that had to be removed from the thermal pools and spa. Later this afternoon, the tour comes to an end in Christchurch.

  • 18 nights of accommodation
  • 11 Tasty Breakfasts
  • 2 Dinners
  • Magical Ruakuri Cave in Waitomo
  • Mitai Maori Village
  • Wai Ariki Hot Springs
  • Huka Falls walkway
  • Stunning cruise on the Inter-Island Ferry across the Cook Strait
  • Wine & Gin tasting in the Marlborough region
  • Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and Seal colony
  • Tekapo Hot Springs
  • Hooker Valley Track Walk
  • Greenstone Carving Workshop
  • Franz Josef Glacier
  • Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
  • Epic Scenic Walks Sprinkled Throughout

Departures & Pickups

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.

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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.

call Australian Phone: +61 3 9125 3620 call International Phone: +61 (0)3 9125 3620 call WhatsApp: +61 480 064 975
location_on Peterpans Cairns Esplanade 83A Esplanade Cairns, 4870 Queensland, Australia