Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
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
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
From Auckland’s bustling harbors to the awe-inspiring peaks of the Southern Alps, the "Auckland to Christchurch Self Drive" trip invites experienced travelers to craft their own 13-day New Zealand odyssey. This relaxed-paced self-guided tour package offers the freedom of vehicle rental, comprehensive accommodation, and a thoughtfully designed route showcasing the country’s most celebrated locations—from Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes to the adventure capital of Queenstown.
Begin your journey in Auckland, soaking in urban vibrance and panoramic coastal views before heading south to Rotorua, where bubbling mud pools and Maori traditions create a captivating tapestry of culture and nature. Marvel at the thunderous Huka Falls near Lake Taupo, then steer towards Wellington, New Zealand’s cultural heart, for a taste of its lively arts scene and renowned culinary offerings.
A highlight awaits as you ferry across the scenic Marlborough Sounds to Picton, where rugged coastlines merge with sparkling waters. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the Kaikoura Coast, famed for whale watching and marine encounters, before the journey continues to Christchurch’s revitalized cityscape. The itinerary then winds through the dramatic Southern Alps, with time to absorb the majesty of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park’s glacial vistas.
Queenstown delivers a vibrant finale, blending adrenaline-fueled possibilities with lakeside serenity. The adventure peaks with a scenic drive over the Crown Range to the imposing Fox Glacier, offering a last taste of New Zealand’s untamed beauty.
The unique appeal of this tour lies in its seamless fusion of city exploration, natural marvels, and the flexibility of independent travel—ideal for those who want every moment to be their own. With every day designed for discovery, this self-drive tour package promises both adventure and unforgettable landscapes at your own pace.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Fox Glac
Auckland, Christchurch, Fox Glacier, Rotorua, Wellington, Picton, Mount Cook National Park, Queenstown
New Zealand’s natural wonders are yours to discover on the "New Zealand Explorer" tour, a 9-day adventure designed for travelers who appreciate comfort and breathtaking scenery at a relaxed pace. Begin in Auckland, exploring its diverse neighborhoods and iconic harbor views before heading to the magical Waitomo Caves—where a boat ride beneath thousands of glowworms ignites the imagination.
Experience Rotorua’s geothermal marvels and traditional Maori culture, then fly to Christchurch to access the South Island’s alpine jewels. Marvel at Mount Cook’s snow-capped peaks and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, then wind through Queenstown, the Adventure Capital, where activities from bungee jumping to wine tasting await.
What sets this tour package apart is its ultra-small group format and expert guidance, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. With hotels, meals, and all transport arranged, it’s an ideal trip for travelers who want to savor New Zealand’s wild beauty in comfort and style.
Discover some of the most magnificent mountains, breathtaking fjords, fascinating cities, and spectacular rainforests on the planet with this tour of New Zealand and Australia! Begin your journey in Auckland, the capital of New Zealand and a vibrant city that sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Learn about the past and present volcanic activity of the city as you explore the diverse neighborhoods and historic landmarks. Drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take in the magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city skyline. Visit The Domain, the oldest park in Auckland and one of the largest in the city! Head on a tour of the Waitomo Caves as you will travel through the beautiful farmlands and enjoy a breathtaking boat ride on the Glowworm Grotto, illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. Catch a flight to Christchurch to uncover the extraordinary sights of the Southern Alps from Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand with a height of 3,724 meters, before you visit Lake Tekapo en route to Queenstown. From there you will fly to Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia filled with fascinating hidden gems including an underground art scene, extraordinary restaurants, and ample shopping opportunities. Wander around the Fitzroy Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in Melbourne, and visit Albert Park, home to the Australian Grand Prix. Take a train to Sydney to visit the Opera House, known for its extraordinary architectural design, and drive to Bondi Beach, the most famous surfing beach in the country. Your tour of New Zealand and Australia will end in Sydney, and you will head home filled with fascinating memories!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Rotorua, Auckland, Melbourne, Sy
Rotorua, Auckland, Melbourne, Sydney and NSW, Sydney, Christchurch, Queenstown
Set off on an 18-day exploration weaving through New Zealand and Australia, where natural wonders and vibrant cities await. Beginning in Auckland, New Zealand’s dynamic capital, this self-guided trip leads you across iconic sites—cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge for sweeping city and Gulf views and unwind in The Domain, Auckland’s oldest park. Journey south to marvel at the glowworms of Waitomo Caves, cruising through an illuminated grotto, then catch a flight to Christchurch and soak in the Southern Alps’ grandeur from Mount Cook and the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo. Next, uncover the adventure capital of Queenstown before flying to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural heart. Here, discover hidden laneways, innovative cuisine, and the lush Fitzroy Gardens. Stroll through Albert Park, famous for hosting the Australian Grand Prix, then venture north to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Absorb the laid-back tropical atmosphere before boarding a train to Sydney, where world-renowned sights like the Opera House and Bondi Beach cap off your journey. This tour package offers experienced travelers a seamless blend of comfortable hotels, included meals, and easy transport—making it the ideal relaxed itinerary for those eager to soak in the diverse highlights of both countries at their own pace. The rare combination of New Zealand’s majestic fjords and Australia’s iconic coastal cities is what sets this tour apart, promising unforgettable memories from start to finish.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Rotorua, Auckland, Cairns, Sydne
Rotorua, Auckland, Cairns, Sydney and NSW, Melbourne, Sydney, Christchurch, Queenstown
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
