17 Day Ultimate NZ Explorer Independent Coach

Arrive in Auckland, a vibrant harbour city surrounded by islands, beaches, and volcanic landscapes. Spend the rest of your day settling in or exploring the waterfront, lively dining scene, and iconic skyline.

Included: Private transfer from Auckland Airport to accommodation
Enjoy a seamless arrival with a private transfer directly to your hotel in the city. This convenient service ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your New Zealand journey.

Suggested Activity: All Blacks Experience
Step into the world of New Zealand’s legendary rugby team through immersive displays and interactive experiences. Discover iconic moments, test your skills and feel the energy of the haka in this engaging cultural attraction.

Suggested Activity: Wētā Workshop Unleashed
Explore the creativity behind movie magic with a hands-on experience featuring props, special effects and imaginative sets. This interactive attraction brings film-making to life, offering a fascinating look into the world of cinematic storytelling.

Suggested Activity: Harbour Sailing Dinner Cruise
Sail across Auckland’s sparkling Waitematā Harbour as the sun sets and the city lights begin to shimmer. This relaxing cruise combines scenic views with a delicious dining experience, creating a memorable evening on the water.

Travel north from Auckland to the subtropical Bay of Islands, where coastal scenery and historic towns define the journey. This region is known for its turquoise waters, golden beaches, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Auckland to Paihia
Travel north from Auckland through scenic coastal regions and rolling countryside, passing seaside communities and the lush landscapes of Northland. This journey offers a relaxing introduction to the Bay of Islands, arriving in Paihia surrounded by golden beaches and turquoise waters.

Included: Paihia Central/Coach Stop to Paihia Accommodation 
On arrival to Paihia, you will be transferred from Paihia Central to your accommodation.

Included: Russell Mini Tour
Discover the historic charm of Russell on a guided tour through New Zealand’s first European settlement. Visit key heritage sites and enjoy panoramic views over the Bay of Islands while learning about the area’s fascinating past.

Spend the day exploring the stunning Bay of Islands, known for its clear waters and marine life. This region offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Included: Paihia Accommodation to Paihia central/coach stop with Haruru Cabs
You will be transferred from your accommodation to Paihia Central.

Included: Hole in the Rock Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, passing remote islands and dramatic coastal scenery as you journey towards Cape Brett. If conditions allow, travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock, with opportunities to spot dolphins and marine life and enjoy time ashore at Otehei Bay.

Included: Paihia Central/Coach Stop to Paihia Accommodation with Haruru Cabs
On arrival to Paihia, you will be transferred from Paihia Central to your accommodation.

Travel back south to Auckland, passing through Northland’s rural landscapes and coastal towns. This journey offers a relaxed return to the city.

Included: Paihia Accommodation to Paihia central/coach stop with Haruru Cabs
You will be transferred from your accommodation to Paihia Central.

Included: InterCity coach travel from Paihia to Auckland
Travel south from the Bay of Islands through Northland’s rural landscapes and small towns, including Kawakawa and Warkworth. Crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge, you’ll arrive back in the vibrant city of Auckland, known as the “City of Sails”.

Travel south through the Waikato region, famous for its lush farmland and rolling hills. Today blends cinematic landscapes with Rotorua’s geothermal energy.

Included: Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour
Travel from Auckland through the lush Waikato countryside to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, where Middle-earth comes to life among rolling green hills. Explore famous filming locations before continuing on to Rotorua, enjoying a personalised journey with engaging commentary along the way.

Suggested Activity: Polynesian Spa Deluxe Lake Spa
Relax in naturally heated mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua, surrounded by tranquil scenery and native flora. With a range of soothing pool temperatures and peaceful lake views, it’s the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate.

Discover Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes and Māori culture through unique experiences. Today combines adventure, scenery, and cultural immersion.

Included: Mount Tarawera and Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer by floatplane
Take to the skies on a scenic floatplane flight over Mount Tarawera, where dramatic volcanic landscapes, lakes and rifts reveal the region’s powerful geothermal history. Land at Orakei Korako to explore this hidden valley, home to vibrant terraces, geysers and hot springs in one of New Zealand’s most remarkable geothermal settings.

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

Travel south to Wellington, combining scenic travel with a cinematic experience. This day introduces you to New Zealand’s creative capital.

Included: Private transfer from Rotorua accommodation to airport
Begin your journey with a convenient transfer to the airport. This ensures a smooth start to your travel day.

Included: Air New Zealand Flight from Rotorua to Wellington
Enjoy aerial views of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes as you travel south. The journey highlights the contrast between regions.

Included: Private Transfer Wellington Airport to your Accommodation
Begin your journey with a convenient transfer to the airport. This ensures a smooth start to your travel day.

Included: Lord of the Rings Half Day Private Tour from Wellington
Discover iconic Middle-earth filming locations on a private guided tour, starting with panoramic views from Mount Victoria and visits to Hobbiton-inspired sites. Continue to the Wētā Cave and Workshop for behind-the-scenes insights into film-making before returning to Wellington enriched by cinematic stories and scenery.

Travel from Wellington to Christchurch, transitioning from the North Island to the South Island. This journey offers a seamless connection between regions.

Included: Private transfer from accommodation to airport
Enjoy a convenient transfer ensuring a stress-free start to your journey. This service provides a smooth connection to your flight.

Included: Air New Zealand Flight from Wellington to Christchurch
Take in aerial views of coastlines and mountain ranges during your flight. The journey offers a unique perspective of New Zealand’s geography.

Included: Private transfer from Christchurch Airport to accommodation
Arrive in Christchurch and transfer directly to your hotel. This ensures a comfortable and efficient arrival.

Travel inland from Christchurch across the vast Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps. The landscape transforms into alpine lakes and towering peaks as you approach Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Included: Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour with lunch
Travel from Christchurch across the wide Canterbury Plains, stopping to admire the vivid blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue past Lake Pukaki into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where dramatic alpine scenery and New Zealand’s highest peak create a truly unforgettable setting.

Included: Glacier Explorers experience on Tasman Glacier lake
Cruise across the Tasman Glacier terminal lake to see ancient icebergs floating among towering alpine peaks. This unique experience offers rare access to New Zealand’s largest glacier, providing incredible views of ice formations and glacial landscapes.

Depart the alpine region and journey south through some of the South Island’s most scenic high country landscapes. Today’s route features mountain passes, glacial lakes, and wide-open valleys.

Suggested Activity: Alpine Explorer Heli Flight and Alpine Landing
Take to the skies on a breathtaking helicopter flight over the Ben Ohau Range, with incredible views stretching across Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding peaks. Land in a remote alpine location where you can step out onto the snow and experience this stunning environment up close.

Included: Aoraki Mount Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour
Travel through the spectacular Southern Alps, passing the vibrant blue waters of Lake Pukaki and the scenic Lindis Pass. Continue through dramatic landscapes including the Kawarau Gorge before arriving in Queenstown, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.

Spend time discovering Queenstown’s stunning alpine setting, where scenic walks, lakefront dining and adventure activities create a vibrant atmosphere. Surrounded by the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, this iconic destination offers everything from relaxed sightseeing to thrilling experiences.

Suggested Activity: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Experience an adrenaline-filled ride through the narrow Shotover River canyons, skimming past rugged rock walls at high speed. Hold on tight for the famous 360-degree spins that make this one of Queenstown’s most exciting adventures.

Suggested Activity: Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride
Ride the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for sweeping panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to take in the beauty of this spectacular alpine region.

Discover the renowned Central Otago wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir and dramatic landscapes. Today blends scenic touring with gourmet food and wine experiences.

Included: Appellation Boutique Wine Tour
Discover Central Otago’s renowned wine region with visits to boutique vineyards across Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell. Enjoy tastings of premium cool-climate wines, paired with a gourmet platter lunch and time to explore the historic charm of Old Cromwell.

Journey into Fiordland National Park to experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders. This day showcases dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and towering peaks.

Included: Milford Sound Business Class Experience with canapés
Travel in premium comfort from Queenstown to Milford Sound, enjoying personalised service, scenic stops and engaging storytelling along the way. Once in the fiord, relax aboard a luxury vessel with canapés and New Zealand bubbles while taking in breathtaking views of waterfalls, wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

Experience the remote beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park combined with a classic Queenstown dining experience. Today blends adventure, scenery, and local flavours.

Included: Wilderness Jet Experience with Dart River Safaris
Experience an exhilarating jet boat adventure through the remote landscapes of Mt Aspiring National Park, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness. This thrilling journey combines high-speed action with fascinating insights into the region’s natural beauty and heritage.

Included: TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak High Country Farm, taking in stunning alpine scenery along the way. Enjoy a gourmet BBQ dinner featuring local produce, followed by a traditional farm demonstration before returning to Queenstown under the evening sky.

Travel across the Southern Alps via the Haast Pass into the wild West Coast region. The scenery changes dramatically from alpine landscapes to lush rainforest and rugged coastline.

Included: Queenstown to Franz Josef transfer with Glacier Shuttles
Travel from Queenstown through dramatic alpine landscapes, passing crystal-clear lakes and towering mountain ranges before crossing the scenic Haast Pass. As you reach the West Coast, the scenery transforms into lush rainforest, rugged coastline and cascading waterfalls on the way to Franz Josef.

Included: Glacier Valley Shuttle
Enjoy convenient access into the Franz Josef Valley with a shuttle transfer to the road end. From here, take a short walk to a viewing platform for impressive glacier views or explore nearby scenic tracks at your own pace.

Travel north along the rugged West Coast before crossing the Southern Alps by rail. Today combines coastal scenery with one of the world’s most scenic train journeys.

Included: Franz Josef to Greymouth transfer via Hokitika
Travel north along the rugged West Coast, passing through Hokitika, a historic town known for its pounamu and gold mining heritage. This scenic journey showcases coastal landscapes and rich local history before arriving in Greymouth.

Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
Experience one of the world’s great rail journeys as you cross the Southern Alps through Arthur’s Pass National Park. Enjoy ever-changing scenery from lush rainforest and river valleys to expansive plains as you travel to Christchurch.

Included: Shared transfer from Christchurch train station to accommodation
On arrival in Christchurch, you’ll be met and transferred directly to your city centre accommodation. This convenient service ensures a smooth and hassle-free end to your journey.

Your New Zealand adventure comes to an end in Christchurch, surrounded by gardens and heritage charm. Take time to reflect on your journey before continuing your onward travel.

Included: Private transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Airport
Enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport for your departure. This final service ensures a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your tour.