Small Group Tour
Small Group Tour
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.
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Tour Dates - 2023
NZ $3949
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.
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)
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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).
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!
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.
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.
Spend the Whole day in Queenstown soaking up the beautiful scenery. Make the most of the adreneline activities such as bungy jumping and skydiving.
What's included in the ski package: *Selected departures only *T&C apply
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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