Fall in love with the highlights of this 10 day South Island itinerary that takes you on a circuit of spectacular mountains, lakes, rivers, glaciers, waterfalls and rainforests and gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the bucket list adventures you could wish for.
Created for travellers in their mid-thirties and upwards, on this New Zealand South Island itinerary you’ll visit Christchurch, Queenstown, Lake Wanaka, Lake Tekapo (and Lake Wakatipu, Lake Mapourika, Lake Hawea, plus more lakes!), the Mackenzie Country, and Franz Josef, plus you’ll get to take one of the world’s greatest train rides! Your comfortable 3–4 star accommodation on tour includes a boutique hotels and a rainforest retreat.
We’ll travel from the wide plains of Canterbury, through the mountains and lakes of Central Otago, to the glaciers and pristine rainforest of the West Coast via the spectacular Haast Pass. By the end of this New Zealand South Island itinerary, you will have lost count of the number of times you’ve uttered the words: “Wow!”, “So beautiful!” and “It’s breathtaking!”.
You’ll have the opportunity to swim, kayak, jet boat, skydive, hike, bike, see kiwis, relax in hot pools, eat and drink like a local, and more.
But only if you want to; this is your trip, and it’s designed to be flexible. Across this 10 day South Island itinerary we include some of the things that we reckon are absolute essentials, but rather than force you into activities you’re not so sure of, we leave the choice up to you. You can pre-book activities that you definitely want to do before the trip starts, and then add more while you’re on tour.
As our tours are made up of a combination of tours, the composition of your group may change throughout your tour (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch are the hubs where the group may change).
City sightseeing
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, Kaikoura, Aoraki
Christchurch, Kaikoura, Aoraki, Ohau, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
From north to south, east to west, New Zealand is a country of contrasts. And that’s why we love it. One minute you’re drifting through World Heritage-listed gorges on a Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tour, then next you’re scaling ice on a Franz Josef/Waiau tour. Sometimes there’s a Maori-inspired feast on the menu; at others there’s award-winning wine. Spanning 17 days, two islands and countless attractions – both city and country – this trip to New Zealand is one for the record books.
Local cultureWaterfalls
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Twizel
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Wherever you lay your eyes in New Zealand, there’s something remarkable to look at. On this adventure from the South Island through the beauty of the North, spend 11 unforgettable days soaking up sunshine and hopping between beaches, lakes, villages and cities. A local leader will show you the best bits of this spectacular island as you jump off from Christchurch, head to seaside Kaikoura, explore trendy Wellington, marvel at the sight of Lake Taupo, learn about local culture in a Maori village, take in the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and chill out on the beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula before wrapping up in lively Auckland. Of all New Zealand’s assets, its people top the list, so embrace a warm welcome from the locals as you explore their beautiful backyard.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Accommodation on this trip is in mixed-gender multi-share dormitory style hostels with shared facilities. We are aware of a system functionality limitation incorrectly indicating "twin-share" when you manage your booking on our website.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairns, Christchurch, Blue Mount
Cairns, Christchurch, Blue Mountains, Sydney, Auckland, Hahei, Maori Village, Wellington, Cape Tribulation, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Twizel, Airlie Beach, Byron Bay, Port Macquarie
New Zealand is an outdoor lover’s dream, and on this two-week Solo-ish adventure, you’ll explore with new mates while still carving out time for yourself. Dive into nature’s wonders in Franz Josef and Queenstown, and satisfy your taste buds with a delicious Kiwi cooking experience in Auckland. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Māori culture with your local hosts in Rotorua. Discover the charm of Hokitika, a quirky west coast gem, as you journey from the North Island to the South. This is your chance to tick New Zealand off your bucket list in the most unforgettable way.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
18-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Queenstown, Franz Jose
Auckland, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Fiordland National Park, Rotorua, Kaikoura, Hokitika
27% OFF TODAY
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Traveling solo to Australia and New Zealand is an adventure in itself, and this 25-day Solo-ish trip ensures you’ll never feel alone. From the moment you arrive, your expert CEO and built-in travel mates will make you feel at home. Journey through New Zealand from north to south, immersing yourself in Māori culture, cooking Kiwi dishes with locals, and exploring the stunning landscapes of Kaikoura and Franz Josef—whether with your group or on your own. In Australia, embark on a 4x4 adventure to French Island to spot wild koalas, explore the awe-inspiring Uluru while learning about its rich Indigenous history, and cap off the trip near the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
18-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Cairns, Franz Josef, Q
Auckland, Cairns, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Melbourne, French Island, Uluru, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Rotorua, Sydney, Kaikoura, Hokitika
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
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
It was a once in a lifetime experience with amazing people and great guides! Wish I could do it all over again and would surely recommend doing it with you guys
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
18-39 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairns, Wellington, Queenstown
Cairns, Wellington, Queenstown, Tekapo, Christchurch, Kaikoura, Sydney, Abel Tasman National Park, Arrawarra, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Fraser Island, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Westport, Franz Josef
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Our overall experience was very positive. We were able to see the things we wanted to see. Some of the travel was long but that is the size of the countries. Would recommend it to others.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Sydney and NSW, Sy
Christchurch, Sydney and NSW, Sydney, Cairns, Cape Tribulation, Airlie Beach, Byron Bay, Port Macquarie, Blue Mountains, Manly Beach, Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Tekapo, Yulara, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Melbourne
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Two bucket list destinations-one fabulous adventure. This 24-day adventures makes the very most of your time by seeing the very best of both Australia and New Zealand. From Sydneys iconic cities to her Red Centre rich with Indigenous history, this is the Australia you've always dreamed of seeing. Then pop over to New Zealand for two weeks exploring the North and South Island's cultural and natural wonders. From glow worm caves, to Fjords to Maori cultural experiences, New Zealand does not disappoint. Can't wait to see ya down unda!
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Sydney and NSW, Sy
Christchurch, Sydney and NSW, Sydney, Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Manly Beach, Tekapo, Yulara, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Melbourne
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Between old forest landscapes, mountainscapes and glacial hikes, you’ll journey through New Zealand’s diverse natural beauty on this 24-day adventure. Explore sub-tropical islands and soak up the coastal beauty of Tutukaka – home to one of the world’s most gorgeous coastlines (as voted by National Geographic Traveller). Cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands, visit a hot water beach for a swim in Coromandel and ride a train across the Southern Alps. Learn about local cultural history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, spot wildlife in Wellington and live it up in the South Island’s ‘adventure capital of the world’ (Queenstown) during your free time.
Walking toursCity sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
I absolutely loved the trip, the places we visited were all amazing, our tour guides were very kind, helpful and informative.
Would recommend this trip as a must do
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Queensto
Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Rotorua, Franz Josef, Taupo, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, Kaikoura
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Welcome to New Zealand, where snow-dusted peaks rub shoulders with glacial lakes, and off-the-grid surf towns give way to cosmopolitan cities. This in-depth 20-day adventure takes you to all the places where you can see the country at its best, from the North Island to the South Island. Join a local leader in Auckland and travel through the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, chill out on the beaches of Coromandel and Raglan, explore the otherworldly landscapes of Tongariro National Park and get to know Wellington’s creative side. Hop over to the South Island where the high-adrenaline activities of Queenstown, fabulous wineries of Marlborough and awe-inspiring scenery of Franz Josef await.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
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
Auckland, Christchurch, Kaikoura
Auckland, Christchurch, Kaikoura, Ohau, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Coromandel Peninsula, Raglan, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Taupo, Wellington
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.