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Budget Kiwi Adventure From Auckland

New Tour

14 days

BUDGET TOUR: Embark on an unforgettable 14-day road trip that showcases the highlights of New Zealand's North and South Islands, starting in Auckland. Discover the enchanting landscapes of Rotorua, relax at Lake Taupo and surf the waves at Raglan. On the South Island, opt for a Milford Sound cruise, spend three nights in the adventure capital of Queenstown and hike around the stunning Franz Josef Glacier. Staying in dorm rooms & hostels, recommended for travellers aged 18-39.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

14 days

Starts

Auckland

Ends

Christchurch

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide/driver

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 18

Minimum age

18

Departs

Saturdays

Hotel Rating

Hostels & dorm rooms

Countries

New Zealand

Arrival Transfer

No

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 13, Dinner: 2

Physical Rating

Easy

Tour Pace

Medium
Per person from
AUD$5,915.00
Total From
AUD$11,830.00
Deposit From
Final payment
AUD$1,000.00
$11,330.00

Tour Highlights

Auckland - Start your journey in the largest city of New Zealand's North Island
Rotorua - Spend two nights in this land of geological and volcanic formations, with optional activities and the chance to visit Hobbiton
Taupo - See the Huka Falls and enjoy scenic hiking around Lake Taupo, with plenty of possibilities for optional sailing
Waitomo - Explore the cavernous networks of caves and tunnels with optional excursions
Raglan - Relax on the beach or catch some waves at one of New Zealand's top surfing destinations
Lake Tekapo - Unwind beside the stunning turquoise waters of the lake and indulge in cycling, hiking and other optional activities
Queenstown - Stay for three nights in New Zealand's adventure capital, with endless possibilities
Milford Sound - Take a day trip to one of the most scenic areas in New Zealand, and opt for a memorable cruise
Franz Josef - Discover this ancient glacier with hiking or a scenic helicopter flight

Included

13 breakfasts & 2 dinners
13 nights dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels (mixed-sex)
Escorted by an expert local driver/guide
Transportation in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning and a sound system perfect for road trip singalongs
Domestic flight Auckland - Christchurch
Huka Falls Walking Loop
Castle Rock Walk
Hot Water Beach (tide dependent)
Visit to the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve at Tekapo
Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland entry in Rotorua
Church Of The Good Shepherd
Transport To Milford Sound (Cruise Optional)
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tip for your tour guide / driver. We recommend you allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveller. Tipping your tour guide is an entirely personal gesture.
Optional activities and experiences (book locally - approximate pricing is in the Trip Notes)
Airport transfers

Itinerary

Day 1 - Auckland to Hahei

Auckland - Hahei. We'll depart from Queens Wharf at around 09:00 (details in Trip Notes), so be prepared to begin your adventure! The journey to Coromandel is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with your guide and fellow travellers. We’ll enjoy a scenic drive, with a lunch stop at Mount Maunganui. Here, you can choose to hike up or around the Mount. Following the coast, we'll make our way to Hahei. Depending on our arrival time, we’ll either head to Hot Water Beach to dig our own hot pools or kayak around the breathtaking Cathedral Cove.

Please Note: This tour offers a variety of optional excursions throughout the tour that can be booked and paid for locally. We will give examples of some of the optional activities available on tour, your guide can assist you with any other available options. Sightseeing and activities are generally not included on tour, this gives you the flexibility to shape your own adventure!

Overnight: Hahei

Day 2 - Optional Hobbiton & Rotorua

Hahei - Rotorua. We bid farewell to the Coromandel Peninsula and make our way to Rotorua, with a stop at Hobbiton along the route so you can explore the renowned Lord of the Rings movie set (optional). In the evening, you’ll have the option to visit the enchanting Mitai Maori Village, where you can immerse yourself in Maori culture, traditions, and enjoy a traditional hangi feast.

Overnight: Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Rotorua at leisure

Get ready for an action-packed day in Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal hotspot. Whether it's luging, zorbing, white water rafting, taking in cultural performances, or simply admiring the fascinating geothermal scenery, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to choose from!

Overnight: Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast

Days 4-5 - Exploring Taupo

Rotorua - Taupo. Next, our journey takes us to Taupo, known as the adventure hub of the North Island. We'll witness the roaring Huka Falls and the area's trout-rich rivers before we relax with a sunset drink by the beautiful shores of Lake Taupo. As night falls, you can either enjoy a scenic sailing cruise on the lake or dine at one of the excellent local restaurants.

Day 5 is at leisure to explore the lake, either from the water's edge or from 15,000 feet above! The choice is yours. Spend the day tackling the Tongariro Crossing, jetboating, sailing, exploring, or bungy jumping – there are endless activities in Taupo! After an action-packed day, unwind with a glass of wine or a craft beer from a local brewery and share your exciting experiences with fellow travellers.

Overnight: Taupo
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 6 - Waitomo & Raglan

Taupo - Raglan. We have an early start this morning to get on the road and leave the Great Lake behind as we head to Raglan. Before reaching the surf town, we’ll navigate through the underground caving town of Waitomo, where you’ll have 3.5 hours to enjoy some adventure. Whether you prefer wet or dry activities, we’ve got you covered! Your guide will be available to help you plan your time in Waitomo. Afterward, we’ll continue to Raglan and perhaps enjoy a beer on the beach.

Please note: There are two included group dinners on this tour. These will take place at a favourite spot of your guide, and the days on which they take place will vary by tour and guide!

Overnight: Raglan
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Flight to Christchurch

Raglan - Auckland - Christchurch. Rise early this morning for an epic optional surf lesson at an iconic beach. At around 1 pm, we'll begin our journey back to Auckland. Along the way, we’ll make plenty of photo stops and potentially drop by New Zealand’s favourite ice cream spot! We aim to reach Auckland Airport by approximately 4 pm, where we'll catch our included flight to Christchurch. Your flight is scheduled for either 6 pm or 7 pm, and your boarding pass will be provided to you. Upon arrival in Christchurch, you'll be transferred to tonight's accommodation.

Please note: Some travellers may be ending their tour in Auckland, and others may join you in Christchurch for our exploration of the South Island. The maximum group size will never be exceeded.

Overnight: Christchurch
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Lake Tekapo

Christchurch - Tekapo. Setting off from Christchurch, we journey to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand’s most picturesque locations. Discover the local bike trails, then unwind in the lakeside hot springs, perfect for stargazing in the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.

Overnight: Tekapo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Queenstown

Tekapo - Queenstown. Today, we’re off to Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of New Zealand! Before we depart, you'll have some time to squeeze in any activities or hikes you missed yesterday. Once we arrive, we’ll get you checked into your accommodation for the next three days and then head out to explore. Queenstown is the ultimate destination for ticking off bucket list adventures, offering everything from skydiving and bungy jumping to canyoning and ziplining.

Overnight: Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Milford Sound day trip

Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown. Today we enjoy a day trip to UNESCO-listed Milford Sound, home to grand waterfalls, ancient forests, stunning mountain vistas, and playful dolphins. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery on an optional cruise through the fjord, unwind with a beer, join a lively party, or savour New Zealand’s famous Fergburger. We head back to Queenstown for the night.

Overnight: Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Queenstown at leisure

Whether you're into bungy jumping, canyon swinging, or horse riding, Queenstown offers an adventure for everyone! Experience one of New Zealand's most picturesque skydives, explore the trails with a bike ride, go luging, or take a jet boat up the canyon. Today is completely free for you to explore and enjoy some of the area's optional excursions. Your guide will be on hand to book trips for you.

Overnight: Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Wanaka & Franz Josef

Queenstown - Wanaka - Franz Josef. Following a break in picturesque Wanaka, get ready to be amazed as we journey along a rugged coastline adjacent to ancient rainforests, icy glaciers, and crashing waterfalls. We will then traverse Haast Pass and arrive at Franz Josef, the gateway to glacier country.

Overnight: Franz Josef
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Franz Josef

Get your crampons ready, because Franz Josef might just be the most stunning place you'll ever see. Discover breathtaking formations sculpted over millennia, accessible for hiking, helicopter tours, or a combination of both! Prefer a lower altitude? You can also enjoy quad biking, kayaking, or unwinding in the glacier hot pools, and then relax with a cold drink to fully take in the experience.

Overnight: Franz Josef
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14 - Franz Josef to Christchurch

Franz Josef - Christchurch. After a brief visit to the picturesque Hokitika, embark on a breathtaking journey through Arthur's Pass amidst the magnificent snow-capped Southern Alps. Our adventure concludes back in Christchurch at approximately (details in Trip Notes).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Top10 Holiday Park
Hahei

Located a short drive outside of Hahei, Top10 Holiday Park at Hot Water Beach offers budget-friendly dormitory accommodation, ideal for group tours seeking a laid-back atmosphere. The mixed dorms are simple yet comfortable, equipped with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen and lounge, perfect for socializing with fellow travellers. The park boasts excellent amenities, including a BBQ area, laundry, outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site shop for essentials. Its standout feature is the proximity to Hot Water Beach, just a short walk away, where guests can dig their own hot pools in the sand during low tide. The location also provides easy access to nearby attractions like Cathedral Cove, making it a great base for exploring the Coromandel Peninsula.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel
Haka House
Rotorua

Haka House Rotorua offers affordable dormitory accommodation, ideal for budget group tours. The mixed dorms are modern and comfortable, with shared bathrooms and individual storage lockers for convenience. Guests can unwind in the spacious communal areas, including a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy lounge with Netflix and gaming consoles. Located in the heart of Rotorua, the hostel is within walking distance of major attractions like the Polynesian Spa, Government Gardens, and Rotorua Lake. Haka House also offers private rooms, free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, and laundry facilities, providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay. The central location makes it easy to explore Rotorua's geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel
Finlay Jack's Backpackers
Taupo

Finlay Jack's Backpackers in Taupo offers mixed dorm accommodation in a relaxed and social setting. The dorms are clean and comfortable, with shared bathroom facilities, individual power outlets, and storage lockers for each guest. The hostel features a fully equipped kitchen, a communal lounge with Netflix, and an outdoor area, perfect for mingling with fellow travelers. Located just a short walk from Taupo town centre, the hostel is close to shops, cafes, and the stunning Lake Taupo waterfront. Free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, and a tour desk are available to help guests make the most of their stay, whether exploring local geothermal parks, taking a dip in nearby hot springs, or venturing out on the Tongariro Crossing.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel
Raglan Backpackers
Raglan

This laid-back, budget-friendly hostel offers clean and simple dorms, with shared bathroom facilities and individual storage for guests. The communal areas are spacious, featuring a well-equipped kitchen, cozy lounge, and an outdoor garden with hammocks and a hot tub for relaxing after a day of adventure. Located in the heart of Raglan, the hostel is just a short walk from the town's surf beaches, cafes, and shops. Raglan Backpackers also offers free use of kayaks, paddleboards, and bicycles, making it easy for guests to explore the surrounding area. Surf lessons, yoga classes, and access to nearby hiking trails are all available, making it a great base for those looking to experience the best of Raglan's outdoor lifestyle.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Tekapo

Surrounded by trees and overlooking Lake Tekapo, this informal resort is a minute’s walk from the lakeshore, a 500-metre walk from the thermal pools at Tekapo Springs, and 1 km from State Highway 8. The simple dormitories offer Wi-Fi access and shared bathrooms, with some featuring verandas. Bed linen is provided. Amenities include a communal kitchen, a lounge with a TV, as well as BBQ and picnic areas. Bike hire and guest laundry facilities are available. Various activities such as cycling, fishing, and hiking can be enjoyed on-site or in the surrounding area. Dining options, including Blue Lake Eatery & Bar, McKenzies Café Bar & Grill, TLV Restaurant & Bar, and Dark Sky Diner, are all within 1.2 km.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Hostel
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
Queenstown

Haka Lodge Queenstown Lakefront provides comfortable and affordable mixed dorm accommodation, with modern bunks, privacy curtains, individual reading lights, and shared bathrooms. Communal spaces include a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious lounge and a cozy outdoor deck offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Situated right on the lakefront, the hostel is just a short walk from Queenstown's bustling town centre, with its shops, bars, and restaurants. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. The location provides direct access to the Queenstown Gardens and a short ride to adventure sports hotspots, perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the outdoor adventure capital of New Zealand.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel
Rainforest Retreat
Franz Josef

Rainforest Retreat offers mixed dorm accommodation in a unique, forested setting. The dorms are cozy and well-maintained, with shared bathroom facilities and personal lockers. Guests can take advantage of communal areas, including a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge with a fireplace, and outdoor hot tubs nestled among the rainforest. Located in the heart of Franz Josef, the retreat is just a short walk from the village’s cafes and shops, and a short drive to the famous Franz Josef Glacier. Free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, and a tour desk help make stays convenient and enjoyable. Surrounded by nature, guests can easily explore local walking trails, soak in the nearby hot pools, or enjoy glacier hikes and helicopter tours to experience the area's stunning scenery.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with 1 traveller. 'Dorm' prices shown are based on mixed dormitory rooms (PLEASE CONTACT US FOR DORM PRICES)! There is also a 'Twin/Double' room upgrade and a 'Single' room upgrade for solo travellers. 'Twin/Double' room upgrades are based on two people travelling together and are subject to availability.

2024
Twin
Single
23 Nov - 6 Dec
$5,915
$6,965
30 Nov - 13 Dec
$5,915
$6,965
7 Dec - 20 Dec
$5,915
$6,965
14 Dec - 27 Dec
$6,025
$7,085
21 Dec - 3 Jan
$6,025
$7,085
28 Dec - 10 Jan
$6,025
$7,085
2025
Twin
Single
4 Jan - 17 Jan
$6,025
$7,085
11 Jan - 24 Jan
$5,915
$6,965
18 Jan - 31 Jan
$5,915
$6,965
25 Jan - 7 Feb
$5,915
$6,965
1 Feb - 14 Feb
$5,915
$6,965
8 Feb - 21 Feb
$5,915
$6,965
15 Feb - 28 Feb
$5,915
$6,965
22 Feb - 7 Mar
$5,915
$6,965
2026
Twin
Single
3 Jan - 16 Jan
$6,105
$7,235
10 Jan - 23 Jan
$5,985
$7,115
17 Jan - 30 Jan
$5,985
$7,115
24 Jan - 6 Feb
$5,985
$7,115
31 Jan - 13 Feb
$5,985
$7,115
7 Feb - 20 Feb
$5,985
$7,115
14 Feb - 27 Feb
$5,985
$7,115
21 Feb - 6 Mar
$5,985
$7,115

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