Small Group Tour
Small Group Tour
18 Day Tour North & South Island
Start: Auckland
Finish: Christchurch
What's included:
- 17 nights of hostel accommodation (including one night before the tour starts)
- Plus, an overnight stay at Tamaki Māori village;
- 18 tasty breakfasts (vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options on request)
- Two dinners; a traditional hangi at Tamaki Maori Village and dinner at River Valley Lodge
- Te Puia guided tour; discover a geothermal wonderland featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, and traditional Māori culture and even see the iconic Kiwi bird up close.
- Dark Sky Project tour; gaze at the stars in the largest dark sky reserve in the world
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour; marvel at the Glowworms
- Inter-island ferry ticket; one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world
- Wine tasting in the world-renowned Marlborough region
- Glenorchy and Lake Wakatipu day tour
- Greenstone carving experience; carve your piece of pounamu jewellery, a highly valued greenstone in New Zealand that plays an essential role in Māori culture.
- Various scenic hikes (all included, optional and weather dependent); Karangahake Gorge, Cathedral Cove in Coromandel, Ruakuri walk in Waitomo, Huka Falls in Taupo, Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Mt John walkway in Lake Tekapo, Hooker Valley in Mt Cook National Park and Franz Josef glacier valley walk.
From the secluded beaches and volcanic craters of the north to the glaciers, mountains and fjords in the south, this is our most immersive experience possible. Adventure activities are aplenty throughout the trip, with accommodation and some activities included (see below); our all-inclusive tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time. From Auckland to Christchurch and everything in between, this tour has New Zealand covered.
This tour departs Auckland at 8:30 am from Lylo (54 Cook Street). Your accommodation has been booked here for the night before departure. The tour finishes in Christchurch at approximately 5 pm.
Read more about our Booking Guarantee here
Tour Dates - 2023
- 21 May - 7 June Book here
- 4 - 21 June Book here
- 13 - 30 August Book here
- 3 - 20 September Book here
- 10 - 27 September Book here
- 17 Sep - 4 October Book here
- 24 Sep - 11 Oct Book here
NZ $3949
Day 1Auckland to Hot Water Beach
Departing Auckland we head southeast to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel and the world-famous Cathedral Cove (included). Here you have the option to kayak around this stunning coastline (optional paid activity) as well as the opportunity to visit Hot Water Beach (included). 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.
Accommodation
- Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
Experiences & Highlights
- Explore Cathedral Cove, famous for its iconic rock archway with stunning views of the Coromandel coastline.
- Relax at Hot Water Beach; by digging your own spa pool where the water is naturally heated deep within the earth to emerge through the golden sand.
- Explore Cathedral Cover from the Water by Kayak (optional paid activity)
Day 2Hot Water Beach to Waitomo
Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind we’ll venture into the enchanting Karangahake Gorge nestled among the Kaimai Ranges, for a hike (included) amongst the walkways and old mining tunnels. If that isn’t enough fun for one day, then never fear, next, we’ll head over to Waitomo ('wai' meaning water, 'tomo' meaning hole) for a magical tour of the world-famous glow-worm caves. For those feeling a little more adventurous, you will have the opportunity to experience a Black Water Rafting trip. (additional paid activity)
Accommodation
- Waitomo Chalets
Experiences & Highlights
- Hike through the Karangahake Gorge, boasting beautiful scenery and spectacular mining remnants including disused gold mining tunnels.
- Magical Glowworm Caves in Waitomo
- Explore the underground cave system with Black Water Rafting (not included)
Day 3Waitomo to Rotorua
We start the day by walking through the Ruakuri Reserve and saying goodbye to those glowing little critters. Next, we'll pass through The Shire of Hobbiton, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Hobbiton Movie Set (optional paid activity) before rolling on through to Rotorua, a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. This afternoon, we head off to visit the Te Pa Tu Māori Village, where you will be immersed in the traditions and cultural values of the Māori people. Participate in a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), and learn about the history of the marae (village) and the Rotorua area from a local Māori guide before feasting on some top kai (food) from the hāngi pit. Afterwards, gather around a blazing bonfire where you will enjoy Māori myths and legends before relaxing in a private forest spa pool and retiring for the night in a traditional carved whare moe (sleeping house).
Accommodation
- Tamaki Maori Village (this is a traditional experience with everyone sleeping in the same room)
Experiences & Highlights
- Hike through the Ruakuri Reserve; a spectacular loop walk taking you through a forested gorge, past natural sculpted cliffs and under low limestone arches.
- Spend the evening and night at a Māori village where you'll learn about the history and culture of the locals.
- Opportunity to visit Hobbiton; a behind the scenes of The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings movies on this guided tour (additional paid activity)
- Immerse yourself in Maori culture and history by exploring Rotorua, renowned for its geothermal activity.
- Check out the natural boiling, bubbling and steaming geothermal wonderland at Kuirau Park.
Day 4Rotorua to Tongariro National Park
If you haven't had a chance yet to explore the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, we will check it out this morning before heading onto Great Lake Taupo, taking in a walk to the pounding Huka Falls (included). In Taupo, there is lots to do, tell us what you’re in the mood for, and we’ll get you there. The lake (actually an extinct volcano crater) is a sight from the shoreline (included). Still, the more adventurous might want to take the opportunity to experience optional paid activities such as sail across the lake on a yacht to the Māori rock carvings or even getting a birds-eye view by skydiving above it. After an afternoon exploring Taupo, we'll head to Tongariro National Park for our 2-night stay, where you can either walk the Tongariro Crossing (one of NZ's Great Walks) or explore the beauty of this magnificent National Park.
Accommodation
- YHA National Park
Experiences & Highlights
- Walk the Huka Falls walkway; a set of waterfalls on the Waikato River, where you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydro power.
- Hike The Tongariro Crossing, voted one of the world's best day walks
Day 5Tongariro National Park
So many unique options for your free day in Tongariro National Park. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (additional paid activity); a dramatic landscape of stunning contrasts created by extinguished lava flows and emerald lakes. It’s no surprise Tongariro is often described as one of New Zealand’s best one-day hikes. In the winter season, you're just a hop, skip and jump from two amazing ski fields on Mount Ruapehu; Whakapapa and Turoa.
Accommodation
- YHA National Park
Experiences & Highlights
- Hike the Tongariro Crossing; one of New Zealand's best one day hikes (shuttle not included, additional cost)
- Go skiing or snowboarding on Mount Ruapehu (Ski Hire not included)
Day 6Tongariro National Park to River Valley
We head south around the “great lake” towards the Tongariro National Park for a picnic lunch and a two-hour walk through native bush and waterfalls. In the afternoon we travel through to the ultimate adventure lodge - River Valley, situated amongst towering cliffs and bush-clad hills. The lodge offers grade five rafting on the Rangitikei River, scenic horse riding and an amazing dinner with homegrown produce. Spend the evening enjoying the delicious roast dinner and relaxing by the open fire.
Accommodation
- River Valley Lodge
Experiences & Highlights
- Hike the Taranaki Falls walk in the Tongariro National Park
- Spend the day at River Valley Lodge; nestled on the Rangitikei River
- Go white water rafting on the Rangitikei River (not included)
- Horse Trek through the rolling hills with amazing scenery out to the nearby National Park (not included)
- Enjoy a group roast dinner with produce that is organically grown at the lodge.
Day 7River Valley to Wellington
Today, we’ll cruise through the southern end of the North Island to the capital, Wellington. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (included) and then passengers have the opportunity to experience the national museum, Te Papa (included) and get amongst the thriving craft beer scene.
Accommodation
- Nomads Backpackers
Experiences & Highlights
- Buzzing city vibes in the capital Wellington
Day 8Wellington to Kaikoura
Today you’ll kick off by experiencing what’s regarded as one of the most beautiful inter-island crossings in the world, the Cook Straight (included). Arriving into the top of the South Island we’ll journey through the dreamy Marlborough region, home to more vineyards than your eyes can see. Stopping off for a tasting (or two…) along the way (included) to Kaikoura to spot unique marine life and experience local Kiwi cuisine.
Accommodation
- Dusky Lodge
Experiences & Highlights
- Inter-Island transport across the Cook Strait; one of the most enjoyable and beautiful ferry journeys in the world (included)
- Wine tasting in the Marlborough region (included)
- Visit Kaikoura Seal colony; one of the best wildlife experiences in the country where hundreds of native fur seals call Kaikoura home.
Day 9Kaikoura to Christchurch
Start the day with a sleep-in or for the more adventurous head out to sea to witness spectacular marine life such as dolphins, whales, albatrosses and so much more (extra paid activity). Around mid-morning, we’ll head up the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway to walk among a large seal colony (included). After a morning experiencing a real-life Planet Earth episode, we’ll cruise to the diverse city of Christchurch.
Accommodation
- Hotel Give
Experiences & Highlights
- Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
- Enjoy the amazing panoramic views of Kaikoura at the top of the lookout
- Christchurch Street Art tour - a journey of street art, murals and graffiti art of all sizes, explaining the history of urban art, and the city's emergence as an urban art destination
- Discover the vibrant new city of Christchurch
Day 10Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Saying goodbye to Christchurch, we’ll hit the road and cruise into the magnificent Mackenzie Country, home to Lake Tekapo. Here we will visit the charming stone Church of the Good Shepherd (included), sat next to the breathtakingly blue waters of the lake framed with colourful lupins. As night falls, we will visit the Dark Sky Project situated among the UNESCO Dark Sky reserve (included).
Accommodation
- Lakes Edge
Experiences & Highlights
- Marvel at the stars at the Dark Sky Project, Lake Tekapo, where science, Māori heritage and fascinating multi-media installations bring together a ‘Big Bang’ of awe and inspiration.
- Visit the The Church of the Good Shepherd; situated on the shores of Lake Tekapō amongst the natural beauty of the lake and the mountains.
- Hike up Mount John for a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains, lakes and Mackenzie Basin flats.
Day 11Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook (return)
Cruising past the ‘powerade factory’ Lake Pukaki (you’ll know what we mean when you see it) we head for Mount Cook village where we will enjoy a couple of breathtaking scenic hikes in the National Park (included) which will break your internet and blow your mind. Here you will have the opportunity to experience the Tasman Glacier by helicopter or take a scenic flight through the Mt Cook National Park (Aoraki).
Accommodation
- Lakes Edge
Experiences & Highlights
- Spend the day at Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.
- Hike the Hooker Valley track to Hooker Lake. An awe-inspiring landscape of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana on one of our best day hikes - wind up the Hooker Valley past alpine streams and glaciers in the shadow of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
- Enjoy a scenic flight over Aoraki National Park (not included).
- Go skydiving over Aoraki National Park (not included).
Day 12Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
We drive on through the stunning Lindis Pass and onto Queenstown; known as the adrenaline capital of New Zealand.
Before arriving in to Queenstown we'll visit the world’s first commercial bungy site - the Kawarau Bridge. Only the brave will sign themselves up for this iconic New Zealand activity. On arrival in Queenstown, we will head down to the spectacular waterfront before it’s out on the town exploring Queenstown’s infamous nightlife with all the crew!
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown
Experiences & Highlights
- Even more free time at Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.
- Queenstown; the adventure capital of New Zealand
Day 13Queenstown
Carrying on the adrenaline-pumping theme, you have a full day to fill with activities that suit all budgets and appetites for adventure. Try your hand at activities such as white water rafting, bungy jumping, skydiving, jet-boating or canyon swinging… if you dream it, it probably exists here in Queenstown. Speak to your Driver Guide who will be able to point you in the right direction.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown
Day 14Queenstown
Today we will head out into the heartlands of Otago to the picturesque town of Glenorchy to experience a scenic landscape brimming with southern charm.
Day 15Queenstown
Spend the Whole day in Queenstown soaking up the beautiful scenery. Make the most of the adreneline activities such as bungy jumping and skydiving.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown
Experiences & Highlights
- Soack up the sights of Queenstown
- Experience the adrenaline activities such as bungy jumping and skydiving.
- Selcted Winter departures on 27th Jun, 11th July, 25th July, 8th Aug, include a 1-day lift pass to Cardona Ski Field
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What's included in the ski package: *Selected departures only *T&C apply
- 1 day mountain lift pass at Cardona Ski Field
- 1 day equipment and clothing hire
- Equipment: skis or snowboard, helmet and goggles
- Clothing rental: Jacket and pants
- Mountain transport transfers
Day 16Queenstown to Franz Josef
We start out early in order to stroll round Lake Wanaka and some lunch. We then cruise up the last stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way. We'll then head to Lake Matheson where you can catch the perfect mirror reflection of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. The onwrads to Franz Josef.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat
Experiences & Highlights
- Lake Wanaka and the famous Wanaka Tree
- Lake Matheson mirror lake
- Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef
Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. You can experience a Heli-Hike on the glacier or you can explore this lush corner of New Zealand (for free) on foot; hitting up the many walking trails in the area. Relax afterwards in a Hot Spring with breathtaking views.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat
Experiences & Highlights
- Design and carve your own Greenstone jewelery in a West Coast workshop (included)
- Walk the Glacier valley walk in Franz Josef
Day 17Franz Josef to Christchurch
Today we travel from coast to coast right over the Southern Alps! We’ll stop for the chance to carve your own greenstone necklaces (pounamu), a unique gift from this special place. Then a journey through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, a landscape of 2 halves. Ascending the western side, we’ll venture through dense rainforest alongside and over deeply gorged rivers, on the eastern side, you'll see wide, shingle-filled riverbeds and vast swathes of beech forest. Along this road, we will stop off at the Devil’s Punch Bowl and the breath-taking Castle Hill (included).
Experiences & Highlights
- Scenic hikes across Arthurs Pass
- Walk the Castle Hill track; wander through majestic limestone rock formations of special significance to Ngāi Tahu.
- Devils Punchbowl waterfalls.
What's Included
- 17 nights hostel dorm accommodation
- Plus, one Overnight Māori village experience
- 18 tasty breakfasts
- There are two dinners; a traditional hangi at Tamaki Maori Village and a River Valley dinner.
- Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach
- Hike through the Karangahake Gorge
- Magical Glowworm Caves in Waitomo
- Geothermal wonderland, Kuirau Park
- Māori culture and history at Te Puia
- Huka Falls walkway
- Buzzing city vibes in the capital Wellington
- Inter-Island transport across the Cook Strait
- Wine tasting in the Marlborough region
- Kaikoura Seal colony
- Christchurch city street art tour
- Dark Sky Project, Lake Tekapo
- The Church of the Good Shepherd
- Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
- Glenorchy & Lake Wakatipu tour
- Thunder Creek Falls
- Lake Matheson
- Greenstone carving
- Glacier valley walk in Franz Josef
- Scenic hikes across Arthurs Pass
- Devils Punchbowl and Castle Hill
Optional Extras
Our Small Group Tours offer a fixed itinerary, with a few bucket list items included. There are plenty of additional activities you can add on to your experience as you travel.
What our passengers think
It was a perfect way to spend a quick tour in the South Island
I was a bit hesitant about joining a group tour because I was alone (and introverted) and don't know anything, and there were some not-so-good reviews. But i dint really wanna spend so much renting a car alone (plus it'd be tiring to drive alone) so I opted to book it. It was a very pleasant experience from day 1 to finish. I met the group in Christchurch, although they have already started the tour from north island. They were mostly solo travelers as well, and everyone was respectful of each other. I actually made good friends with some after the trip (and was a bit sad when we parted).
Good tour for people that feel good in a group but also for individualists!
Usually I travel on my own and it was a first time I was traveling with an organized tour and I must say that it was a really good choice.
Faq's
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I’m a solo traveller... will I meet other solo travellers?
Absolutely! The majority of our passengers are travelling solo. Kiwi Experience is a social experience guaranteed to leave with new friends from across the globe.
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Am I too old/young for Kiwi Experience?
We welcome the young, and the young at heart aboard our buses, there is no upper limit! There is however a lower limit; you’ll need to be 18 at the time of travel.
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What visas do I need?
Luckily, many nationalities are able to visit New Zealand for less than 3 months without a visa. However, if you are not from one of these countries, obtaining your own visa is your own responsibility. We ask that you check out the Immigration New Zealand website before booking your Kiwi Experience trip.
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Do I need travel insurance?
While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended and should be taken out when travelling with us. As well as making sure your expensive stuff is covered, you should also get comprehensive travel insurance (covering all medical expenses you could incur while travelling).
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How much should I budget for each day?
We recommend you budget between $70 - $100 per day to cover food and super fun times. From time to time, it may be worth putting a little more aside to pay for the really crazy stuff like skydiving.
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How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Passengers are allowed one 23kg suitcase/backpack and one day bag, as there are strict weight restrictions on our buses.
