23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour

» Auckland » Auckland » Auckland

From $3256.55

2 reviews   (3.00)

Price varies by group size

Lowest Price Guarantee

Pricing Info: Per Person

Duration: 552 hours

Departs: Auckland, Auckland

Ticket Type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted

Free cancellation

Up to 24 hours in advance.

Learn more

Overview

Everything you expect from a three-week tour of New Zealand and then some! Over 23 unforgettable days, you’ll experience it all: secluded beaches, jaw-dropping scenery, Māori culture, mountainous ranges, lush rainforests and more adventure activities than you could ever tick off your bucket list.

From the idyllic Bay of Islands, through a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud, traversing mighty mountains and then hiking the blue glacial ice of the wild West Coast, you’ll soon see that New Zealand is filled with many different landscapes and opportunities for adventure!

As with all our tours, we do include a few 'must-do' events, ranging from a Māori cultural night to learning to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe), and even a greenstone carving experience.

You’ll see a massive range of optional activities available to add, from bungy jumping and dolphin encounters to jet boating and scenic flights. None of these are compulsory; just add the ones you want.

What's Included

2 dinners Fish'n'Chips in Paihia and a traditional cooked hangi in Murupara to full your puku! (belly)

Comfortable Transport - with plenty of room to spread out

Continental Breakfast Every Day - heaps of options for everyone (you too, vegans!)

Experience a Māori cultural performance in Rotorua during the Cultural Experience Night

Experienced Local Guide

High-End Hostel Accommodation - dorm share, upgrades available

Iconic ferry ride between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait

Learn to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe) along the Abel Tasman coastline

Optional transport back from Wellington to Auckland on Day 24

Orientation Tours - we give you the low-down on every location

Small Groups - Max 16 people. You are more than just a number

Visit Te Puia - cultural centre about traditional Māori culture and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders

Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of New Zealand

What's Not Included

Additional activities - such as bungy jumping

Lunch and dinner are own costs - unless specified

Traveler Information

  • ADULT: Age: 18 - 69

Additional Info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Public transportation options are available nearby

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

  • Experience may be cancelled due to Insufficient travelers

What To Expect

Kia ora! Nau mai, haere mai ki Aotearoa! Hello and welcome to New Zealand –The Land of the Long White Cloud!
After our 8am welcome breakfast, we’ll kick off our tour with a leisurely scenic drive to the subtropical “Winterless North”.
The Northland region is home to some seriously ancient and impressive kauri forests. We’ll stroll through the largest of these – the Waipoua Forest – to meet TāneTane Mahuta, the largest of them all. At over 1,250 years old and over 51 metres tall, he’s looking pretty good for his age.
We reach the town of Paihia, the jewel of the Bay of Islands, in the early evening. As the sun sets, we’ll treat you all to a fish and chips feast overlooking the water. It doesn’t get more Kiwi than that!

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Auckland
Today, discover the Bay of Islands’ important role in New Zealand’s history with a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. We love bringing you here, it’s a truly unforgettable insight into Māori culture. The 35-metre carved waka (ceremonial war canoe), the world’s biggest, is a must-see.
After lunch we say goodbye to the Bay. There are some beautiful waterfalls around the area, if you know where to look – and we certainly do! So we’ll stop off at one of them, depending on the weather and what your Haka Guide’s favourite spot is.
We head back to Auckland via Northland’s east coast, which boasts stunning beaches and coastal walks. Be sure to have your swimwear handy – if time permits, your Haka Guide will take you to some of their top locations!
After an epic day, we reach the bright lights of the City of Sails in the early evening.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Coromandel Peninsula
Leaving the big smoke behind, we head to the Coromandel Peninsula, a veritable paradise of beautiful beaches and misty rainforests. The drive here is epic – the road twists and turns dramatically round the coastline and the ocean gets clearer and more pristine before your eyes. Cameras ready – the views are magnificent!
The Coromandel is home to the famous Hot Water Beach – thousands visit each year to dig their own personal hot tub. If the tide times allow, we’ll definitely grab our buckets and spades and get busy!
We arrive in the Coromandel with plenty of time for your guide to show you around. Sample the sandy beaches or simply enjoy the vibes.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Lake Rotorua
This morning walk along the cliffs and down to Cathedral Cove (which you might recognize from the Chronicles of Narnia). With perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns, it’s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel.
Alternatively, take an optional guided Cathedral Cove kayak trip and check out this stunning coastline from a different angle, accompanied by a local dolphin or two if you’re lucky!
Later this afternoon we head towards Rotorua. En route, we’ll visit Matamata – best known for being the home of Hobbiton. For Lord of the Rings fans, a visit to Hobbiton Movie Set is an absolute must-do.
While the majority of the North Island is volcanic in some way, Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than many other places in the world.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Lake Taupo
It’s only a short drive to our next destination, Taupƍ, and there’s plenty to discover along the way. From mesmerising mud pools to the thundering rapids of the Huka Falls and Aratiatia Dam, your trusty Haka Guide will make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Taupƍ is a beautiful lakeside town with a stunning mountain backdrop. Lake Taupƍ is New Zealand’s largest lake – believe it or not, it’s roughly the same size as Singapore!

This place is all about the thrills and spills, and there are plenty of options in store this afternoon. Get your hair wet with a water touch bungy jump, take an unforgettable skydive or a sunset lake cruise for amazing lake and mountain views.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Wellington
It’s a big drive from Taupƍ to Wellington, but there’s some unmissable scenery on offer. Lord of the Rings junkies, you’re in for a treat!

Our journey takes us through Tongariro National Park via the Rangipo Desert (bet you didn’t know New Zealand had one of those!). Some of your favourite Lord of the Rings battle scenes were filmed right here.

The Desert Road boasts incredible views of three active volcanic peaks – Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu. You may know Mount Ngauruhoe as Mount Doom, so be sure to snap a Mordor selfie!

We pull into Wellington in the afternoon, with just enough time for film buffs make a trip to Weta Workshop, where the special effects of Lord of the Rings and Avatar were produced.

New Zealand’s capital is famous for its bars and eateries, and is a paradise for lovers of craft beer – you’ll be spoilt for choice tonight!

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Kaikoura
Packed with quirky cafes and beautiful street art, and famous for its wind, Wellington will blow you away in more ways than one! Your guide will introduce you to some of our favourite spots this morning. We take a trip up Mount Victoria for the best views in town.

This afternoon we say farewell to the North Island with a scenic ferry journey across the Cook Strait. The South Island has a stunning welcome in store for us – gliding through the Marlborough Sounds as we approach Picton Harbour, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.

Our next destination, Kaikƍura literally means “to eat crayfish”, and the area is teeming with them. The nutrient-rich waters of this area attract a wide variety of marine wildlife including the stars of the show – the whales and dolphins.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

CBD Christchurch
The chance to encounter dolphins in the wild is a massive New Zealand highlight for many travellers, and Kaikƍura is one of the best places to find them, with pods of up to 300 of these playful creatures hanging out here at any one time.

If you want to get up close to the giants of the ocean, a whale watching tour here is the way to do it. Humpbacks, sperm whales and orca all stop by at various times of year, so this is a great chance to meet some of them.

After visiting the local seals on our way out of town, our road trip continues to our home for the night – Christchurch, known as the “Garden City” for its peaceful parklands and lazy rivers.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Lake Tekapo
This morning we’ll explore iconic downtown Christchurch and your guide will show you the cool and creative ways the city is being rebuilt after the life-changing 2011 earthquake here. Christchurch folk are an innovative and creative bunch – the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard, is totally inspirational.
After lunch we leave the city behind and head for Lake Tekapo. The lake’s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer’s dream come true.
The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd stands right at the water’s edge, proving that small is definitely beautiful. Grab some confetti and congratulate any passing brides – couples travel from all over the world for wedding shots in front of the chapel!
Tekapo has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve and the super clear skies make it the best place in New Zealand to see the stars and galaxies on a clear night. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Queenstown
This morning if you’re feeling energetic, hike up to the summit of Mt John. With awesome views of the Southern Alps, you’ll feel on top of the world. Speaking of views, today’s scenic drive to Queenstown is a show-stopper.

From the golden tussocklands of Mackenzie country – where epic battles of Return of the King were filmed – to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, it’s like you’re driving into a postcard.

We’ll pause for lots of photo stops en route to give your camera a workout, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge. This also happens to be the World Home of Bungy, give it a go or enjoy watching the jumpers scream their way through the gorge!

Whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, an avid hiker, wine taster or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone. With two nights and plenty of daylight hours here, get ready – this town certainly knows how to live life to the max!

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Lake Wanaka
One last morning in Queenstown to work on that bucket list. What will it be today - a canyoning experience, Lord of the Rings 4x4 safari, or a jet boat ride along the Shotover River? There are so many options. You decide.
After the excitement of Queenstown, today is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown’s slightly quieter little sister, a mere one hour drive away. On the way we’ll stop in charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with heaps of old world character.
Blessed with towering peaks and a glacial blue lake, you’ll soon see why Wanaka’s considered to be one of New Zealand’s most beautiful mountain towns. There are stunning hikes and bike rides all around for a welcome chance to relax.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Franz Josef
This morning is about exploring Wanaka. How, exactly, is up to you! Optional activities include a flying lesson, skydiving or a lake cruise and nature walk on Mou Waho Island.
If none of those appeal, there are lots of scenic short walks in the area - including a visit to #thatwanakatree. Talk to your guide for the best options.
As we hit the road, we’ll stop at one of our favourite lakeside lookout points at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka. Your guide will keep an eye on the weather and pick the best option.
From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won’t want to nap on the bus in case you miss anything. Your guide will have some epic surprise photo stops and short walks along the way.
We roll into Franz Josef around late afternoon/early evening. This UNESCO World Heritage area is famous for its spectacular glacier, just 5 kilometres from town, which is begging to be explored tomorrow.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free

Punakaiki
Driving along the incredible coastal road and exploring the lush forests around Punakaiki, it almost feels like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s a rare treat to experience such remote prehistoric landscapes, so make the most of this awesome opportunity to unplug from the outside world.

Get excited; our trusty guides always have some surprises up their sleeves for this part of the trip, including a spot or two to get your feet wet.

We’ll visit one of the famous artisan greenstone factories in Hokitika as we make our way north, as well as passing through some old gold mining towns before arriving in Punakaiki.

One of Punakaiki’s many natural wonders is the subtropical rainforest – and we are staying in the heart of it for the next two nights!

Cook up a group dinner in this rainforest paradise, and be sure to end the day watching the sun set over the ocean tonight.

24 hours ‱ Admission Ticket Free


Book Now


« All Activities

Auckland activities and shore excursions by group:

Auckland Hotel and Activities Guide

Our Travel guide can help you plan your holiday to Auckland by offering you detailed information on hotels, activities, golf courses and car rentals in Auckland. We offer a comparison of nearly all hotels, car rentals and activities that are available in Auckland and surrounding area with an option to make a real time secure booking. By booking in advance you are certain to have everything prepared for your trip to Auckland.

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE

OUR COMPANY

Contact us

We offer online customer service in English, French, German, Spanish and Dutch.

UAE OFFICE

Head Office:
Office Q1-2-095, Gold Park,
SAIF Zone, P.O Box 7751
Sharjah, U.A.E.

USA OFFICE

Call Center:
447 Broadway
2nd Floor Suite# 705
New York, NY 10013
United States

CAYMAN ISLANDS OFFICE

Call Center:
Office 638, 10 Market Street,
Camana Bay, Grand Cayman, KY1-9006
Cayman Islands

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and PayPal

© Copyright 1995 - 2025 Auckland Travel Guide