Explore the narrow strip of South Island land sandwiched between the mountains and the Tasman Sea that’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful places. Millions of years of natural history are right in front of you in wild limestone rock formations, powerful glaciers, rushing rivers and surf pounded coast, while the much more recent stories of the gold and coal rush can be found in the heritage settlements and in the resolute spirit of the coasters. Take in highlights from Christchurch to Queenstown, Pancake Rocks to craft gin, kayaking to spa soaking. This is a coastal road trip to rival any other.
Active and outdoorAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Greymouth, Westpor
Christchurch, Greymouth, Westport, Karamea, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown
Few places rival the South Island of New Zealand for natural beauty, and the "New Zealand Southern Pioneer" tour ensures you see it all in comfort and style. Beginning and ending in Christchurch, this 10-day adventure covers Queenstown’s thrill-seeker paradise, the peaceful waters of Wanaka, and the glacial majesty of Franz Josef. Cross the Southern Alps by one of the world’s most scenic train rides, and let your local leader share hidden gems along the way. The tour’s unique appeal is its focus on dramatic, ever-changing scenery, offering travelers an easy yet unforgettable exploration of mountains, lakes, and valleys.
Active and outdoorBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Ohau, Queenstown
Christchurch, Ohau, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef
With a soundtrack of bellbirds and a backdrop of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, set off on an unforgettable hike along New Zealand’s Queen Charlotte Track. Over five days, you’ll join a local leader on walks to secluded bays, coves and native forest, learning about the region’s rich Maori history as you go. Venture through Nelson Lakes National Park, explore Abel Tasman National Park via kayak and finish each day at your cosy lodge accommodation – a perfect way to recharge your battery.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Picton, Nelson Lakes National Pa
Picton, Nelson Lakes National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough, Christchurch
Journey through the South Island of New Zealand on this 12-day adventure. Explore the limestone landscape of pancake-shaped rock formations and see the blowholes at Punakaiki. Take a ferry through Marlborough Sounds and spend a night at Lake Tekapo, known for its turquoise waters and snowy peaks. Spend two days in Queenstown and enjoy plenty of free time to skydive, surf, stargaze or unwind with your new friends.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hostel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Wellington, Abel T
Christchurch, Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Westport
BUDGET TOUR: This 14-day New Zealand tour starts in Auckland and journeys through the scenic Coromandel Peninsula, including Hahei and Cathedral Cove. Continue to Rotorua, known for its geothermal landscapes, before heading to the lakeside town of Taupo. Explore the underground wonders of Waitomo and the coastal town of Raglan, then fly to Christchurch to begin your South Island exploration. Cross the Southern Alps to the coastal village of Punakaiki, visit Abel Tasman National Park’s stunning beaches, and explore the renowned Marlborough Wine Region, plus so much more. Staying in dorm rooms & hostels, recommended for travellers aged 18-39.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hostel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Hahei, A
Auckland, Christchurch, Hahei, Abel Tasman National Park, Kaikoura, Rotorua, Taupo, Raglan, Punakaiki
Delight in the wonders of New Zealand on The Long White Cloud, a 19-day guided journey from Christchurch to Auckland crafted for experienced travelers seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration. Traverse the Southern Alps, marvel at Franz Josef Glacier, and cruise the serene lakes of Wanaka. Enjoy wine tastings in Gibbston Valley, e-bike or embark on an eco farm tour in Queenstown, and soak in the wild beauty of Doubtful Sound on an overnight nature cruise. In Rotorua, walk the Redwoods Treewalk and visit a kiwi hatchery, then descend into glowworm-lit caves. The tour culminates with a traditional Māori feast and a celebratory dinner in Auckland. The USP? A leisurely-paced, immersive itinerary packed with iconic sights, local flavors, and unique wildlife experiences.
Local culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington, Hawke's Bay, Napier, Rotorua, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Doubtful Sound
Explore the best of New Zealand’s South Island on The Southern Drift, a 12-day relaxed-paced city sightseeing tour that starts and ends in Christchurch. Journey on the famous Tranzalpine train to the rugged West Coast, walk the Franz Josef Glacier with expert guides, and glide along the Haast River in a jet boat. Discover Arrowtown’s mining history, indulge in Queenstown’s boutique wines or scenic e-bike tours, and savor fine dining. Trek a portion of the legendary Milford Track in Fiordland, sample craft gin in Dunedin, and celebrate your adventure in Christchurch. Designed for experienced travelers, this trip’s highlight is its seamless mix of guided nature walks, gourmet food, and cultural experiences—all wrapped in comfort.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Dunedin, Franz Jos
Christchurch, Dunedin, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound
New Zealand’s South Island unfolds before you on The Southern Drift, a 10-day natural landmarks sightseeing tour starting and ending in Christchurch. Designed for experienced travelers, this journey reveals the island’s breathtaking diversity—from the majestic peaks of Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier to the tranquil shores of Lake Ohau. Wander through the historic streets of Cromwell and Arrowtown, sample world-class wines, and relish gourmet meals set amid native flora and fauna. Accommodation, transport, and meals are all included, ensuring comfort and ease. The USP? The seamless combination of nature, culture, and cuisine, offering a well-rounded snapshot of New Zealand’s southern wonders.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Lake Ohau , Queens
Christchurch, Lake Ohau , Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef
Experience the very best of New Zealand on this small-group adventure from Auckland to Christchurch. Highlights include an unforgettable overnight cruise in majestic Milford Sound, immersive Māori cultural encounters in Rotorua, a guided Art Deco walking tour in Napier, wine tasting at a boutique Wairarapa vineyard, and engaging local connections - from a fifth-generation beekeeper to the Pavlova Queen of Lake Tekapo. Add in aviation history, farm shows, and breathtaking landscapes, and you’ve got an untamed journey to remember.
Adventure
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Auckland, Lake Oha
Christchurch, Auckland, Lake Ohau , Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Fox Glacier, Rotorua, Napier, Wairarapa, Wellington, Blenheim
Join AAT Kings on a in-depth guided tour from Melbourne to Christchurch, exploring the best of Australia and New Zealand. Highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House, and Uluru in Australia, Rotorua's geothermal wonders, Milford Sound's stunning fiords, and Christchurch's vibrant cityscape in New Zealand. Experience Aboriginal and Maori cultures through authentic encounters and guided tours. This comprehensive journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Resort, Hotel
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Melbourne, Christchurch, Queenst
Melbourne, Christchurch, Queenstown, Sydney, Auckland, Rotorua, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo, Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef