Excellent
Budget Kiwi Adventure From Christchurch
New Tour
BUDGET TOUR: Embark on an unforgettable 14-day road trip that showcases the highlights of New Zealand's South and North Islands, starting in Christchurch. Opt for a Milford Sound cruise, spend three nights in the adventure capital of Queenstown and hike around the stunning Franz Josef Glacier. On the North Island, discover the enchanting landscapes of Rotorua, relax at Lake Taupo and surf the waves at Raglan. 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 daysStarts
ChristchurchEnds
AucklandRange
HandpickedTour Guide
Yes - escorted by a tour guide/driverGroup Size
Min 2 / Max 18Minimum age
18Departs
SaturdaysHotel Rating
Hostels & dorm roomsCountries
New ZealandArrival Transfer
NoDeparture Transfer
NoMeals included
Breakfast: 12, Dinner: 2Physical Rating
EasyTour Pace
MediumExcellent
4.4 out of 5 based on
275 reviews
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Day 1 - Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Christchurch - Tekapo. You will be collected from our pick up spot in Christchurch (detail in Trip Notes). 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.
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!
Day 2 - Queenstown
Day 2 - 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.
Day 3 - Milford Sound day trip
Day 3 - 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.
Day 4 - Queenstown at leisure
Day 4 - 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.
Day 5 - Wanaka & Franz Josef
Day 5 - 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.
Day 6 - Franz Josef
Day 6 - 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.
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!
Day 7 - Franz Josef to Christchurch & Auckland
Day 7 - Franz Josef to Christchurch & Auckland
Franz Josef - Christchurch - Auckland. After a brief visit to the picturesque Hokitika, embark on a breathtaking journey through Arthur's Pass amidst the magnificent snow-capped Southern Alps. We aim to reach Christchurch Airport by approximately 4 pm, where we'll catch our included flight to Auckland. Your flight is scheduled for either 6 pm or 7 pm, and your boarding pass will be provided to you. Upon arrival in Auckland, you'll be transferred to tonight's accommodation.
Please note: Some travellers may be ending their tour in Christchurch, and others may join you in Auckland for our exploration of the North Island. The maximum group size will never be exceeded.
Day 8 - Auckland to Hahei
Day 8 - 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!
Day 9 - Optional Hobbiton & Rotorua
Day 9 - 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.
Day 10 - Rotorua at leisure
Day 10 - 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!
Days 11-12 - Exploring Taupo
Days 11-12 - 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.
Day 13 - Waitomo & Raglan
Day 13 - 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.
Day 14 - Auckland
Day 14 - Auckland
Raglan - Auckland. Raglan is the ultimate laid-back surf town in New Zealand, famous for its world-class left-hand break. You’ll get to explore the dramatic coastal scenery, stroll along the unique black sand beach, and maybe even catch a wave or two. At around 1pm, we begin our return drive to Auckland, ensuring we make several photo stops along the way. We might even visit New Zealand's favourite ice cream spot! We expect to arrive at the airport around 4 pm, where we'll bid farewell to some of you. If you're staying in the city, we can provide a drop-off in town (detail in Trip Notes).
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
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Accommodation
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.
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4.4 out of 5 based on 275 reviews