The Chilled Kiwi

Welcome to Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland), New Zealand's largest city.  The bustling metropolis is perfectly 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, take a peek at Wynyard Quarter to simply get lost in the laneways, window shopping or devouring some of the many food choices on offer. Check out some of the activities on offer and be ready for a welcome evening tonight with the rest of your small group tour crew and driver. 

Your accommodation tonight will be at LyLo Auckland. Check in here from 2pm. 

Departing Auckland we head southeast to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel and the world-famous Cathedral Cove. 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.

Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind, we start our journey to the magical underground world of Waitomo. Keen to stretch your legs? En route we will stop to 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. 

Next up, 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. If you are 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 thousands of glowworms lighting your way as you float down an underground river.

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. 

Next up we head to an equally enchanting land and the home of the Hobbits, 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. 

This morning called for a relaxing thermal restorative experience at Wai Ariki Hot Springs which is nestled perfectly by the shores of Lake Rotorua, this is the place to unwind and relax in culture and tradition. 

The rest of the day is up to you and your imagination but there is plenty here to keep you busy. 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. 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. 

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 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. 

Today in Wellington the decisions are all yours! We highly recommend a visit to Te Papa. This is New Zealand's national museum where you can learn about history and maybe leave with some new facts you can wow your friends and family with! Otherwise, there are a range of activities you can choose from to 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.

This evening, discover the hidden bars of Wellington. Here is a link to find them.

We bid farewell to the North Island and depart Wellington to board the interislander 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 through to Kaikōura this afternoon will take us through the gorgeous Marlborough region, who likes wine? This region is home to countless vineyards and distilleries making it the perfect stop for today's activity. Sample wines from the local area on a cellar door to door adventure with your new found friends. Our day continues as we make our way to Kaikōura, a coastal town located on the West Coast making it the perfect marine life hangout. 

This morning calls for the Kaikōura peninsula walkway to observe the local seals, seabirds and keep a look out for any other wildlife. We then hit the road to our next epic destination, Ōtautahi (Christchurch). Christchurch is an up and coming city in the South Island and is a great place to check out local art, modern buildings and get lost in the streets. There are a range of activity options in Christchurch including the Christchurch Street Art Tour or the Waka on Avon Experience. 

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. 

Get excited as we head towards the adrenaline capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. First up though, let's get our step count up in Mount Cook National Park with a couple of famous walks. Kea Point track is among one of the best walks within the national park. The track passes through a landscape that was formed from a stream and ends on a viewing platform with stunning views of Hooker Valley & Mount cook, to name a few. Then, Tasman Glacier lookout track is another great option for today. This afternoon we arrive in the adrenaline capital, Queenstown. Who is ready to get the blood pumping. 

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, 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 enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area.  

Today is yours to explore Queenstown. If you did not get out to Milford Sound yesterday, today is another opportunity to get out there and explore it. We can confidently say you will not regret it.  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.

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, there are a range of walks to stretch the legs before a stop into Wanaka to get the Insta photo of #thatwanakatree and to get the adrenaline pumping with an optional Wanaka skydive. This afternoon we arrive into Lake Hawea.

Next up, stretching of our legs during a walk at the famous Roys Peak (optional and weather dependant). Enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring before we head back and enjoy the evening spent in Hawea. 

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. 

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) and 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.  

Didn't quite get enough adrenaline in Queenstown? Not to worry, Franz Josef offers opportunity to go skydiving, get up close to the glacier or head out and explore on a quad bike adventure. 

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 Wildlife Centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation and wildlife through interactive experiences. 

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.

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.