10 Day New Zealand Explorer Independent Coach

Begin your journey travelling south through the Waikato’s rolling farmland and picturesque countryside. Today introduces you to New Zealand’s cinematic landscapes before arriving in the geothermal hub of Rotorua.

Included: Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour
Travel from Auckland through the scenic Waikato countryside to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, where the landscapes of Middle-earth come to life. Explore famous filming locations before continuing on to Rotorua, enjoying a personalised journey with insightful commentary along the way.

Spend the day discovering Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From steaming vents to tranquil lakes, the region offers a fascinating blend of nature and tradition.

Included: Rotorua Duck Tours City and Lakes Tour
Experience Rotorua in a unique way aboard an amphibious vehicle, travelling seamlessly from city streets into scenic lakes. This fun and informative tour offers stunning views of Mount Tarawera while sharing insights into the region’s history and natural beauty.

Included: Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience with dinner
Enjoy an immersive evening celebrating Māori culture through storytelling, performance and seasonal cuisine in a forest setting. This award-winning experience provides a meaningful connection to traditions and heritage in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Travel south through the heart of the North Island, passing volcanic landscapes and scenic countryside. This journey offers glimpses of iconic natural features before arriving in the capital city.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Rotorua to Wellington
Journey south through the heart of the North Island, passing Lake Taupō and the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. Continue through rural towns and along the Kapiti Coast before arriving in Wellington, a vibrant harbour city known for its culture, cuisine and compact, walkable centre.

Discover Wellington’s creative energy and coastal beauty, from its harbour views to its cultural landmarks. The compact city layout makes it easy to explore a wide range of experiences.

Included: Wellington Half Day Private Tour
Discover the highlights of New Zealand’s capital on a personalised tour, taking in panoramic views from Mount Victoria and exploring the scenic coastline. Visit iconic attractions including the Cable Car, Botanic Gardens, Wētā Cave and Parliament buildings while gaining insight into Wellington’s culture and history.

Suggested Activity: Wētā Workshop Experience
Step behind the scenes of world-famous film productions and explore the creative processes behind props, costumes and special effects. This interactive experience offers a fascinating look into the artistry and innovation that bring blockbuster movies to life.

Cross the Cook Strait and continue your journey into the South Island. Today combines one of the world’s most scenic ferry crossings with a relaxing coach journey.

Included: Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton with Premium Plus Lounge
Sail across the Cook Strait on one of the world’s most scenic ferry journeys, passing rugged coastlines and the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Relax in the Premium Plus Lounge with complimentary refreshments and comfortable seating while enjoying panoramic views throughout the crossing.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Picton to Nelson
Travel from Picton through the heart of the Marlborough wine region, passing vineyards, valleys and coastal landscapes along the way. This scenic journey continues through Havelock and Rai Valley before arriving in the vibrant city of Nelson on Tasman Bay.

Experience the natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park, known for its golden beaches and clear waters. This day offers a perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor exploration.

Included: Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walk Open Day Pass
Discover the natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park with a flexible combination of scenic cruises and coastal walks. Explore golden beaches, native forest trails and wildlife-rich waters, with options to visit seal colonies, waterfalls and iconic locations like Cleopatra’s Pool.

Included: Return coach transfer from Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park
Enjoy a convenient return transfer from your Nelson accommodation to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. This seamless transport allows you to relax and focus on your day of exploration in one of New Zealand’s most stunning coastal regions.

Travel along the rugged West Coast, where dramatic landscapes and remote beauty define the journey. This route highlights rivers, forests, and coastal scenery.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Nelson to Greymouth
Journey through diverse landscapes from Nelson to Greymouth, travelling via Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi National Park. Follow the scenic Buller Gorge and rugged West Coast, where mountains meet the sea and native forest creates a dramatic backdrop.

Included: Greymouth to Franz Josef transfer via Hokitika
Travel south along the West Coast through historic towns and coastal scenery rich in natural beauty. Pass through Hokitika and small settlements before arriving in Franz Josef, with the chance to glimpse the glacier on a clear day.

Franz Josef is a vibrant alpine village set on New Zealand’s rugged West Coast, where dramatic landscapes meet a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Surrounded by dense rainforest and towering peaks, the region is best known for the remarkable Franz Josef Glacier, stretching down from the Southern Alps. Visitors can explore a range of scenic walking tracks that reveal incredible viewpoints of the glacier and its ever-changing environment.

For those wanting a closer look, a guided helicopter experience offers the rare opportunity to step directly onto the glacier’s icy surface. Beyond the glacier, the area invites relaxation with soothing hot pools and unique wildlife encounters at the West Coast Wildlife Centre. With its mix of adventure, nature, and cosy local spots to dine and unwind, Franz Josef delivers a memorable and well-rounded New Zealand experience.

Travel through the spectacular Haast Pass, where landscapes shift from rainforest to alpine scenery. This journey is one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand.

Included: Franz Josef to Queenstown transfer with Glacier Shuttles
Travel from Franz Josef to Queenstown through the dramatic landscapes of the West Coast and Southern Alps, passing rainforest, rivers and alpine scenery. Crossing the scenic Haast Pass, you’ll journey alongside pristine lakes including Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka before arriving in Queenstown.

Your journey concludes in Queenstown, surrounded by alpine beauty and unforgettable memories. Take time to enjoy the scenery before continuing your onward travel.