Explore New Zealand Like a Real-Life Minecraft Adventure
This 21 day journey across New Zealand transforms iconic landscapes into a real-world Minecraft-style experience, blending exploration, creativity, and adventure. From Auckland to Queenstown, travellers uncover glowworm caves, geothermal valleys, and dramatic alpine scenery. Each destination mirrors the thrill of discovering new biomes and hidden worlds.
The itinerary combines natural wonders with cultural highlights, including Māori experiences, wildlife encounters, and scenic coastal routes. Kayaking Abel Tasman, hiking Tongariro’s volcanic terrain, and cruising Doubtful Sound create unforgettable moments. It’s a carefully designed tour that balances action, relaxation, and discovery across Aotearoa.
Inclusions
20 nights in comfortable motels (upgrade options available)
Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation
Intermediate late model rental cars, with unlimited kms (upgrades available)
Fully inclusive rental car insurance (excess may apply)
Afterhours emergency support while touring
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Auckland Sky Tower Admission
Hamilton Gardens - Entry with Audio Guide
The Black Labyrinth Subterranean Adventure
Te Pō Indigenous Evening Experience at Te Puia
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Redwoods Nightlights with Glowworms Fast Pass
Sky Waka Gondola Sightseeing Trip with Whakapapa
Premium Half Day Tongariro Alpine Tour with Adrift
Kapiti Classic Guided Day Tour with Kapiti Island Nature Tours - Lunch Included
Interislander Ferry Wellington to Pictonwith Premium Plus Lounge
Toka Ngawhā Paddle with Waka Abel Tasman
Zipline & Native Forest Tour with EcoZip Adventures Kaikōura
30 Minute Whale Watch Explorer with Wings over Whales Kaikoura
Dark Sky Project Summit Experience
TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
20 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, 2 special dinners
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Auckland
Arrive in Auckland, a vibrant harbour city known for its sparkling waterfront and volcanic landscapes. This lively destination blends urban sophistication with natural beauty, setting the tone for your New Zealand adventure.
Included: Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp Enjoy a smooth and stress-free arrival with a private transfer waiting for you at the airport. This service allows you to relax and take in your first views of Auckland without any hassle.
Suggested Activities: All Blacks Experience Step into New Zealand’s rugby culture and discover the stories behind one of the world’s most iconic teams. Interactive displays and hands-on activities bring the passion and energy of the game to life.
Accommodation: Grand Millennium Auckland
Stay in a centrally located hotel within walking distance of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Its comfortable rooms provide a relaxing base to recover after your journey.
Day 2: Auckland to Waitomo
Travel south from Auckland through rolling farmland and scenic countryside towards Hamilton and Waitomo. This journey introduces New Zealand’s rural charm and leads you into a region famous for its underground wonders.
Included: Hamilton Gardens Entry with Audio Guide Explore a collection of themed gardens showcasing design styles from around the world. The audio guide reveals fascinating stories and cultural influences behind each unique space.
Travel Time: 2.4 hours
Distance: 189 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nihgts at Waitomo Boutique Lodge
Relax in a peaceful countryside lodge surrounded by lush landscapes and natural beauty. This boutique stay offers a tranquil setting close to the region’s famous cave systems.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3: Waitomo Underground Adventure
Spend the day exploring the remarkable underground world of Waitomo, where caves glow with thousands of tiny lights. This unique environment feels like stepping into a hidden realm beneath the surface.
Included: Black Labyrinth Subterranean Adventure Drift, climb, and float through underground rivers and limestone formations on an unforgettable caving experience. Glowworms illuminate the darkness, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Waitomo to Rotorua
Journey through the Waikato region towards Rotorua, where geothermal activity shapes the landscape. Steam rising from the earth signals your arrival in one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations.
Included: Te Pō Indigenous Evening Experience Enjoy a cultural evening featuring traditional Māori cuisine and performances. This immersive experience offers insight into local customs, storytelling, and heritage.
Travel Time: 1.9 hours
Distance: 139 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Stay in a comfortable hotel overlooking Lake Rotorua in the heart of the city. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions and dining options.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Day 5: Rotorua Geothermal Wonders
Discover Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes, where bubbling mud pools and vibrant mineral terraces create a surreal environment. This region offers a fascinating glimpse into the Earth’s natural forces.
Included: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Walk through colourful geothermal terrain shaped by volcanic activity over thousands of years. Highlights include steaming vents, mineral pools, and the famous Lady Knox Geyser.
Included: Redwoods Nightlights with Glowworms Fast Pass Experience the forest after dark with illuminated walkways and glowing cave formations. This evening activity combines nature, design, and a touch of magic high among the treetops.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Rotorua to Tongariro National Park
Travel south along the scenic thermal highway towards Tongariro National Park, passing lakes, geothermal reserves, and rushing waterfalls. This journey introduces a dramatic volcanic landscape that feels like stepping into another world.
Included: Walking Tracks in and around Whakapapa Village Explore a range of walking trails suited to different fitness levels, from short scenic loops to longer alpine hikes. These tracks showcase waterfalls, native bush, and volcanic terrain unique to the region.
Included: Sky Waka Gondola Sightseeing Experience Ride the gondola to high alpine viewpoints overlooking Mount Ruapehu and surrounding peaks. The panoramic views reveal the raw beauty and scale of this volcanic environment.
Travel Time: 2.2 hours
Distance: 177 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Skotel Alpine Resort
Stay in a cosy alpine lodge set within Tongariro National Park. Surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful base to relax after a day of exploring.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Tongariro Alpine Experience
Spend the day immersed in one of New Zealand’s most iconic volcanic landscapes. Towering peaks, lava flows, and alpine scenery create a setting that feels both rugged and unforgettable.
Included: Premium Half Day Tongariro Alpine Tour Hike through volcanic terrain with expert guides who share insights into the region’s geology and history. The journey to Soda Springs offers stunning views and a refreshing natural stop along the way.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Tongariro to Paraparaumu
Travel south through rural landscapes and small towns as you make your way to the Kapiti Coast. The scenery gradually shifts from volcanic terrain to coastal views and relaxed seaside charm.
Travel Time: 3.3 hours
Distance: 272 kms
Accommodation: Greenmantle Estate
Stay in a luxurious estate surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and native birdlife. This elegant retreat offers a peaceful and refined atmosphere.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9: Kapiti Island to Wellington
Begin your day with a nature-focused experience before continuing to New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Wellington welcomes you with its harbour views, creative energy, and cultural richness.
Included: Kapiti Island Guided Day Tour Explore a protected nature reserve known for its rare native birdlife and conservation efforts. Guided walks and local insights make this a memorable wildlife experience.
Travel Time: 0.6 hour
Distance: 48 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Bolton Hotel Wellington
Stay in a stylish hotel located near the city centre and waterfront. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore Wellington’s dining and cultural attractions.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Free Day in Wellington
Enjoy a full day discovering Wellington’s creative and cultural highlights. This compact capital city is packed with museums, galleries, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Suggested Activities: Guided Tour of Te Papa Museum Gain deeper insight into New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural environment through engaging exhibits. Expert guides bring stories to life in an informative and interactive way.
Suggested Activities: Wētā Workshop Experience Step behind the scenes of world-famous film productions and discover how movie magic is created. This hands-on experience reveals the creativity behind iconic films.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11: Wellington to Nelson via Picton
Cross the Cook Strait on a scenic ferry journey before travelling through the Marlborough Sounds. The route to Nelson offers coastal views, winding roads, and picturesque landscapes.
Included: Interislander Ferry with Premium Plus Lounge Relax in comfort as you enjoy one of the world’s most scenic ferry crossings. The premium lounge enhances the journey with refreshments and panoramic views.
Travel Time: 1.6 hours
Distance: 104 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Tides Hotel Nelson
Stay in a centrally located hotel near the river and city centre. Its convenient setting places you close to restaurants, shops, and the waterfront.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 12: Abel Tasman Coastal Adventure
Spend the day exploring one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal regions. Golden beaches and clear waters create a stunning natural playground.
Included: Toka Ngāwhā Paddle with Waka Abel Tasman Paddle along the coastline in a traditional waka while learning about Māori culture and navigation. This experience combines storytelling, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13: Nelson to Kaikōura
Travel south through the Marlborough region, known for its vineyards and rolling countryside. The journey continues along a dramatic coastal road where mountains meet the ocean.
Included: Zipline & Native Forest Tour Soar above forest canopies and farmland on an exhilarating zipline adventure. Along the way, guides share insights into conservation efforts and local history.
Travel Time: 2.8 hours
Distance: 226 kms
Accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikōura
Stay in a modern waterfront hotel with views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Its stylish design and comfort make it a perfect base in Kaikōura.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 14: Kaikōura to Christchurch
Begin your day with a unique wildlife experience before travelling south to Christchurch. The journey offers a mix of coastal scenery and rural landscapes.
Included: Whale Watch Explorer Flight Take to the skies for a breathtaking aerial view of Kaikōura’s marine life. Spot whales and dolphins from above while enjoying panoramic coastal views.
Travel Time: 2.5 hours
Distance: 178 kms
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Stay in a contemporary hotel close to the heart of Christchurch. Its central location allows easy access to parks, dining, and cultural attractions.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 15: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Travel across the Canterbury Plains and into the stunning Mackenzie region. The landscape transforms into wide open spaces, alpine scenery, and vibrant turquoise lakes.
Included: Dark Sky Project Summit Experience Discover one of the world’s best stargazing locations from a professional observatory. Expert guides reveal constellations, planets, and distant galaxies in crystal-clear skies.
Travel Time: 2.9 hours
Distance: 227 kms
Accommodation: Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Stay in a stylish boutique hotel near the shores of Lake Tekapo. Its modern comfort and scenic surroundings create a relaxing alpine retreat.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 16: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
Journey through some of the South Island’s most iconic scenery, including alpine lakes and mountain passes. The drive into Queenstown reveals dramatic landscapes and a lively resort atmosphere.
Included: TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard a historic steamship before enjoying a gourmet BBQ dinner. This experience combines stunning scenery with authentic Kiwi hospitality.
Travel Time: 2.9 hours
Distance: 249 kms
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Stay in a comfortable hotel with views of Lake Wakatipu or the surrounding mountains. Its location provides easy access to Queenstown’s attractions.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Day 17: Queenstown to Te Anau
Travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through scenic countryside towards Fiordland. This peaceful journey leads you to the gateway of one of New Zealand’s most spectacular regions.
Suggested Activities: Te Anau Glowworm Caves Explore a hidden underground world filled with shimmering glowworms. The experience combines a scenic cruise with guided cave exploration.
Suggested Activities: Ata Whenua Shadowland Film Experience Fiordland’s landscapes through stunning cinematography and storytelling. This immersive film offers a unique perspective of the region.
Travel Time: 1.9 hours
Distance: 164 kms
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Stay in a lakeside hotel just a short walk from the town centre. The peaceful setting provides a relaxing base before your Fiordland adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 18: Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Travel to Manapouri and continue into the remote wilderness of Fiordland. This journey takes you deep into one of the most untouched regions in New Zealand.
Included: Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise Cruise through dramatic fjords surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. Enjoy wildlife encounters, kayaking opportunities, and a peaceful night onboard.
Travel Time: 0.2 hour
Distance: 18 kms
Accommodation: Fiordland Navigator Overnight Boat
Stay onboard a purpose-built vessel designed for comfort and scenic viewing. The experience offers a unique way to fully immerse yourself in the fiord.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 19: Return to Queenstown
Return from your overnight cruise and travel back through Southland to Queenstown. The scenic drive offers one last look at Fiordland’s dramatic landscapes.
Travel Time: 2 hours
Distance: 166 kms
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Scenic Suites Queenstown
Relax back in Queenstown with easy access to restaurants, lakefront walks, and activities. The hotel provides a comfortable base for your final days.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 20: Explore Queenstown
Enjoy a full day at leisure in New Zealand’s adventure capital. Whether you choose relaxation or adrenaline, Queenstown offers something for everyone.
Included: Shotover Jet Canyon Ride Experience high-speed thrills as you race through narrow canyon walls on a jet boat. This iconic activity delivers excitement and unforgettable scenery.
Suggested Activities: Skyline Gondola and Luge Ride the gondola for panoramic views before taking on the thrilling luge tracks. This fun and scenic experience is perfect for all ages.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 21: Depart Queenstown
Enjoy a final morning in Queenstown before preparing for your onward journey. Take in the last views of the surrounding mountains and lake as your adventure comes to an end.
Return your vehicle to Queenstown Airport Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey. This simple process ensures a smooth and convenient end to your New Zealand adventure.