16 Day Kiwi Unleashed Southbound (Auckland to Christchurch)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Start your New Zealand adventure in Auckland. Head out across the scenic harbour and travel north to Parry Kauri Park, home to the magnificent and ancient Kauri tree. Next, we head to the seaside town of Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The bay is made up of 144 islands, secluded bays and incredible marine life — the picture perfect New Zealand you’ve been dreaming of. Settle in at your hotel and take the evening at your own pace. You can relax by the pool, or head into town for a meal and a glass of the best New Zealand wine. (B)

*Upgrade to overnight ‘Rock the Boat’ option

If you’re keen to experience some more of the bay, you can take an optional overnight cruise. This cruise includes a cosy bar and a night full of laughs, music and good company. Sign up for the pool competition, or head out on to the deck to spot satellites and shooting stars. Whilst on board, you can expect amazing views, golden sunsets and an open log fire.

*Please enquire with your travel agent or contact Adventure Tours if you are interested in this upgrade option.

Day 2 – Bay of Islands

Today is yours to explore the stunning Bay of Islands and there are stacks of awesome optional activities available. Adventure lovers can take a catamaran along the inner bay and search for dolphins, or kayak through mangrove forests to Haruru Falls. If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, you can take a scenic ride along 90 Mile Beach and board down the Te Paki sand dunes. Want to learn more about the fascinating history of the region? You can take visit Waitangi Treaty House, or head out to Russell, the oldest settlement in New Zealand. All activities are optional and at own expense. (BD)

Day 3 – Bay of Islands to Rotorua

Today, we begin the journey south from the Bay of Islands. Stop along the way and take a scenic walk to view Whangarei Falls before heading back to Auckland for a bite to eat. Next, it’s on to the heart of Maori culture in New Zealand, Rotorua. This steamy thermal hotspot is renowned for its natural and cultural beauty and for its unique aroma. Breathe in the sulphuric goodness! Tonight you’ll have the chance to stay in a Maori marae, where you’ll be welcomed by community elders in the traditional style of the region. There’s plenty of time to relax and hear all about the stories of Maori history and folklore. (BD)

Day 4 – Rotorua

The day is yours to chill out and enjoy some free time in Rotorua. You can relax in the famous thermal hot springs or indulge in a relaxing massage. If you’re feeling adventurous then why not try out some mountain biking or white water rafting? The list is endless! All activities are optional and at own expense. Tonight we’ll meet up after dinner and check out some of Rotorua’s best night spots. (B)

Day 5 – Rotorua to Tongariro National Park

This morning we head to Te Whakarewarewa Village and Geo-Thermal Reserve, where you’ll get a real insight into Maori lifestyle, history and traditions with a guided tour and a vibrant performance from local indigenous residents. We travel south and visit the raging waters of Huka Falls before reaching Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. You also have the option to tackle the Taupo bungy if you’re feeling truly game (own expense). Tonight you’ll breathe in the fresh mountain air of Tongariro National Park from our alpine retreat, nestled on the edge of Whakapapa Village. (BD)

Day 6 – Tongariro National Park

Tongariro was the first national park in New Zealand and the fourth in the world. The park is a dual World Heritage area, a status which recognises the park’s important Maori cultural associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features. There are loads of incredible walks available for active travellers, from short hikes to longer treks, notably the Tongariro Northern Circuit and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. But it’s not just walking on offer, you can also try mountain biking, relaxing in the hotel sauna or unwinding at the Terrace Bar by the fire. During the winter months the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, so grab some ski’s and hit the slopes. All activities are optional and at own expense. (B)

Day 7 – Tongariro National Park to Wellington

We leave Tongariro behind and head towards New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. Visit Te Papa, the New Zealand National Museum, with six levels of brilliant interactive history and art. You can jump on the scenic cable car and travel from Lambton Quay to the Botanic Gardens (own expense) or check out the funky designer shops, contemporary art galleries, stylish cocktail bars and award-winning restaurants. (B)

Day 8 – Wellington to Nelson

Today we say goodbye to the North Island and travel across to the remarkable South island, with its stunning national parks and incredible mountain ranges. We travel by ferry across the Cook Strait where the blue waters of Marlborough Sounds are waiting for us. Hop off at Picton and discover why Marlborough has become famous right across the world — enjoy some delicious wine tasting with lunch. After lunch, we head west across the mountains to Nelson, the South Island’s second largest city, renowned for its local art community. (B)

Day 9 – Nelson

You have the day free to explore your incredible surroundings. The nearby Abel Tasman National Park is one place not be missed. Here you can journey into a world where native bush meets golden sands, hidden bays and crystal blue waters. You can even explore the park by boat or paddle along the beautiful shoreline in an ocean kayak. There is also the options to try horse riding, quad biking or even an unforgettable tandem skydive. All activities are optional and at own expense. Tonight we regroup for a traditional Kiwi BBQ dinner, prepared for you by your guide. (BD)

Day 10 – Nelson to Christchurch via Kaikoura

Head back through the Rai Valley and the Marlborough Wine Region before stopping in Blenheim to stretch your legs. We continue to travel down the coast and try to spot some New Zealand fur seals at Ohau Point before arriving at Kaikoura — a small town situated between the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and waters of the Pacific Ocean. Take a walk along the pebbled shore and enjoy one of the best seafood lunches you’ll ever eat (own expense). In summer, you have the option to get closer to some of New Zealand’s marine life on a whale watching and dolphin adventure (own expense). In winter, you’ll just have to settle for a glass of vino at one of Kaikoura’s best wineries. Overnight in Christchurch. (B)

Day 11 – Christchurch to Fox Glacier

Cross the Canterbury Plains into the Southern Alps and stop for a break at Arthur’s Pass before continuing to Otira Gorge where the waterfalls cascade overhead. As we approach the wild coast, we stop off at the town of Hokitika for some lunch before making our way to a jade factory to watch carvers create artworks from Pounamu greenstone. Overnight at Fox Glacier. (BD)

Day 12 – Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Explore the Westland National Park today, home to high mountain peaks, stunning glaciers and the chance to walk on a flowing river of ice. For those wishing to take a closer look at Fox Glacier, a half day guided walk is available or you can travel higher up the glacier on a heli-hike (own expense). Later, we take a short stop at Thunder Creek Falls, before stopping for a break at Makarora. Journey by Wanaka and Hawea Lakes before arriving at our destination, Queenstown — adrenalin capital of New Zealand. (B)

Day 13 – Queenstown

For adventure junkies and leisure seekers, Queenstown has it all! Here you can try a bungy jump, skim passed canyon walls on the Shotover Jet, safari through the breathtaking Dart River, go horse riding, mountain biking, white water rafting or hike your way to the top of Ben Lomond for incredible 360 degree views of the area. If you’re looking for a little relaxation, you can chill out in the local restaurants and bars instead. All activities are optional and at own expense. You can also head out to picturesque Arrowhead with your guide and try panning for gold in the Arrow River. Later in the day, we head out to the longest and steepest luge track in New Zealand, where you can perfect your riding style before heading out for some dinner at the famous Winnies Bar. (BD)

Day 14 – Fiordland Experience

After a relaxing morning, we leave Queenstown behind and head to the Fiords. We make our first stop at the township of Te Anau, located on the shores of some of New Zealand’s largest glacial carved lakes. Stop and admire the reflections in the waters of Mirror Lake and the views of Hollywood Valley before we travel through the Homer Tunnel and arrive at the departure point for our afternoon cruise to Milford Sound. We head out to the sound after some lunch (own expense), so keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins and fur seals — you may even spot the occasional penguin! After visiting Milford Sound, enjoy tucking into a delicious dinner at the Fiordland lodge. (BD)

Day 15 – Fiordland to Lake Ohau

This morning you’ll find yourself in the middle of Lord of the Rings territory as we make our way along the Kawarau River before continuing through Cromwell district and stopping to stretch our legs and sample some of the famous fruits of the region. You’ll be able to observe a huge difference in scenery as we travel over Lindis Pass and arrive at our home for the night on the shores of Lake Ohau. Tonight you’ll stay in a lakeside lodge retreat and there is plenty of time to relax with a quiet drink on the deck before dinner. Marvel at magnificent Mt Cook as the sun goes down on a another perfect New Zealand day. (BD)

Day 16 – Lake Ohau to Christchurch via Mt Cook Village

Wake up to some incredible views! This morning start the journey back to Christchurch with the Southern Alps providing the backdrop. Stop along the way to Mt Cook village and take a short walk through the national park (weather permitting). Our next stop is Lake Pukaki, where you can grab some amazing photographs of the lake’s incredibly clear waters surrounding Mt Cook. Stop for lunch before continuing on to the Church of the Good Sheppard and a kiwi farm experience at Fairlie, where you’ll learn about life on a sheep station and watch the sheep dogs in action. We cross the Canterbury Plans and arrive in Christchurch where our 16 day adventure comes to an end. (B)