New Zealand's North to South Island Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 11 days

4.4

10 Reviews

View Map

Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

From heart-racing moments to awe-inspiring scenery, this road trip through New Zealand is one to remember for a lifetime.

Highlights

Head to a Maori village where the profits from your visit are fed back into the community, learn the haka and Maori weaving before tucking into a traditional hangi dinner.
Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, sailing through the Marlborough Sounds – scenic sea-drowned valleys with lush peaks and bright blue waters. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins swimming next to the boat!
Dig your own natural hot tub on Hot Water Beach and check out the much-photographed Cathedral Cove – a little piece of paradise awaits on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Experience the geothermal delights of Rotorua, watch New Zealand’s largest geyser erupt and observe adorable kiwis in a nocturnal house at a conservation centre.
Chill out next to New Zealand’s largest lake in Taupo. Whether you fancy bungy-jumping, skydiving, kayaking or relaxing, Taupo has something for you.

Trip Details

Duration

11 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle,Ferry

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Auckland , New Zealand

Finishes

Christchurch, New Zealand

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Auckland

Kia Ora! Welcome to New Zealand. Your adventure begins in Auckland – a multi-cultural city full of good food, local music, arts and culture. You’ll meet up with your local leader and new travel buddies for a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not head out and explore at your own pace? This is a great city to explore on foot (the hills make for a good warm up!) and there’s lots of cool pubs and shops to check out. Tonight after your meeting, maybe chill out by the harbour or head to a restaurant with your group.

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Coromandel Peninsula

This morning, get on the road and travel towards the Coromandel Peninsula. This super scenic drive sets the tone for the rest of your journey, as you cruise down the coastline past views of glittering water and white sands. The Coromandel Peninsula is known for its lush rainforests and gorgeous beaches, but there’s one that tops them all! Hot Water Beach is made famous by the warm waters that run beneath its sand, meaning all you need to do to make your own hot tub is dig a hole. If the tide times line up with your visit, take advantage of this unusual phenomenon and relax in a natural hot tub. The rest of the day is yours to chill out on the beach or enjoy the cool little town.

Included Activities:

Coromandel Peninsula - Hot Water Beach

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula / Hobbiton / Rotorua

Take a deeper dive into the landscapes of the Coromandel Peninsula today with a walk along the clifftops and down to Cathedral Cove, one of the region’s most beautiful and photogenic spots – the rock arches, columns and pristine beaches are a truly impressive sight. While here, maybe explore the coastline on a guided kayaking tour and keep an eye out for dolphins swimming alongside the boat! In the afternoon, head to the rolling green hills of Matamata where you’ll find Hobbiton – the set where parts of the Lord of the Rings films were shot. On a fully guided tour, you’ll see Hobbit Holes, the Mill and finish with a drink (and maybe a pie) at the Green Dragon Inn. After an amazing day, you’ll continue to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture.

Included Activities:

Rotorua - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Coromandel Peninsula - Cathedral Cove

Optional Activities:

Coromandel Peninsula - Cathedral Cove Kayaking (155 NZD)

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Rotorua

There’s so much to see and do in Rotorua, so today is free to discover it all. Have a chat to your local leader for tips on how to get the most out of your day here. You may like to take a stroll through Kuirau Park, surrounded by bubbling and boiling mud pools. If you feel like getting your heart racing, the Kaituna River is one of the world’s top white water rafting destinations. Maybe head deep into one of New Zealand’s most ancient forests for an exhilarating eco canopy adventure, learning about the native wildlife and ecology as you zipline from tree to tree. Or take a guided kayak trip where you’ll enjoy a fun-filled evening of hot pools (which are only accessible by boat), BBQ dinner and paddling through magical glow worm caves.

Optional Activities:

Rotorua - Forest Ziplining Canopy Tour - from - (3.5hrs) (189 NZD)
Rotorua - River Sledging (135 NZD)
Rotorua - ZORB - from (45 NZD)
Rotorua - Whitewater Rafting (139 NZD)
Rotorua - Redwoods Nightlights Tree Walk (37 NZD)
Rotorua - Guided Glowworm Kayak, Hot Pools & Dinner (300 NZD)
Rotorua - Mt Tarawera Hike (209 NZD)

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Rotorua / Murupara

Start the day with a visit to the Te Puia Maori Village, where you’ll get firsthand insight into Maori culture. You’ll also have the chance to see Pohutu, New Zealand’s largest geyser, in action – this is a sight that will blow you away! A visit to the kiwi conservation centre will allow you to observe this endearing nocturnal bird as it behaves at night. This afternoon, travel to the Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara – the majority of proceeds from the activities you take part in here are fed back into the local community. You’ll be greeted by a member of the Maori community who will show you around the Ngati Manawa Tribal Lands while sharing the history and culture of this tribe. Meet with other members of the village and learn a famous haka war dance, then weave a plate for tonight’s dinner out of flax plants. Dinner tonight is one for the books – tuck into a traditional hangi meal, cooked underground to create a delicious, earthy flavour.

Included Activities:

Murupara - Hangi Dinner
Rotorua - Pohutu Geyser
Rotorua - Visit Te Puia Maori Village
Murupara - Learn to Weave Flax
Murupara - Learn the Haka
Murupara - Village Tour with Local Maori

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Taupo

Hit the road this morning and head to Taupo, making a few stops along the way. Check out simmering mud pools, the rushing waters of the Huka Falls and the impressive Aratiatia Dam and rapids. Arrive in Taupo, sitting in the shores of Lake Taupo – New Zealand’s largest lake. With calm waters fringed by mountains, this is one of the prettiest spots in the country. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, you’re in the right place! The afternoon is yours to try out bungy jumping or skydiving, or you may prefer to take it easy with a sunset lake cruise.

Optional Activities:

Taupo - Water Touch Bungy (235 NZD)
Taupo - Skydive - from (529 NZD)

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Taupo

The day is yours to enjoy all Taupo has to offer. Chill out lakeside to soak in the inspiring views, or get active and take on one of the awesome hiking trails in the area. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, the Tongariro Crossing in the nearby Tongariro National Park is considered one of the best one-day walks in the world (but it’s not for the faint hearted!). Carved into the cliff faces surrounding Lake Taupo you’ll find 14-metre-tall Maori artwork that can only be accessed on a boat trip. Want to relax and unwind? A visit to the natural hot pools at Otumuheke Stream is a must! However you decide to spend the day, it’s sure to be one to remember.

Optional Activities:

Taupō - Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure (69 NZD)
Taupo - Tongariro Crossing Return Shuttle to/from Trail Head (Nov-Apr only) (130 NZD)

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Wellington

Get ready for a long drive from Taupo to Wellington with views so incredible you’ll wish the drive was longer! Weave through the barren landscapes of the Rangipo Desert and pass through Tongariro National Park. Look out for the volcanic peaks of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, which was used as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s cool and creative capital city. Celebrated for its amazing food and craft beer scene, Welly is the perfect place to grab dinner and a drink with your group.

Included Activities:

Tongariro National Park - Scenic Drive
Wellington - Mount Victoria Lookout

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Marlborough Sounds / Kaikoura

Say goodbye to the North Island and jump on a ferry across the Cook Strait. Your introduction to the South Island is certainly a beautiful one as you cruise through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds and into Picton Harbour. Next, travel down to Kaikoura, famous for its abundance of marine wildlife. If you’re heading out for dinner in town tonight, the local crayfish should be at the top of your must-try list!

Included Activities:

Marlborough - Cook Strait Ferry Crossing

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Kaikoura / Christchurch

Experiencing Kaikoura’s wildlife while you’re in this corner of the country is a must, so take the chance this morning to get to know the town’s most famous creatures. You may like to set out on a trip to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat – dusky dolphins, hectors dolphins and common dolphins are all common around these parts. Kaikoura is one of the best spots in the world for whale watching, with humpbacks, orcas and sperm whales often sighted on whale watching cruises. On your way out of town, stop by a seal colony to watch endearing fur seals go about their business. Travel down to Christchurch, arriving in time to head out for dinner at one of the city’s many top-notch eateries.

Included Activities:

Kaikoura - Visit to a Seal Colony

Optional Activities:

Kaikoura - Albatross Encounter (175 NZD)
Kaikoura - Wildlife Kayaking (140 NZD)
Kaikoura - Whale Watching (175 NZD)
Kaikoura - Dolphin Encounter (120 NZD)

Accommodation:

Multi-share hostel with shared facilities (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Christchurch

Your adventure wraps up this morning after breakfast. Keen to see more of Christchurch? Get in touch ahead of time and your booking agent can help to arrange additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $3,195

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 11 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

From heart-racing moments to awe-inspiring scenery, this road trip through New Zealand is one to remember for a lifetime.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 15 May 2027

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Ashley

Traveled, November 2023

11/22/2023

I would do this trip over and over intrepid was great to work with and was easily contacted. Despite a slight lack of detail to cover my very specific questions, I trusted the process and it went off without a hitch.

4.5

Ellie

Traveled, October 2023

11/04/2023

This was a great trip. The activities were very interesting, I had a great group that did lots of things together and a very knowledgeable guide who brought the whole group together.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now