10 Day North to South Island NZ Private Tour from Auckland

Start this multi-day tour in relaxed and delightful style! Your tour begins with a pickup from your preferred location in Auckland, where your guide will meet you. Explore the highlights of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and gateway to the country. Visit Mount Eden, Auckland’s highest volcanic cone, and enjoy panoramic views of the city, harbours, and surrounding landscape. Continue to One Tree Hill, an important landmark rich in Māori and European history, set within the peaceful surroundings of Cornwall Park. Before lunch, take a stroll through the Auckland Domain and the beautiful Wintergardens, featuring tropical and temperate plants in historic glasshouses. If time permits, you may also visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history, Māori culture, and natural heritage.

After lunch, choose between two contrasting experiences. You may head to Auckland’s rugged west coast and visit Muriwai Beach, famous for its striking black volcanic sand, powerful Tasman Sea waves, and dramatic coastal scenery. A short walk leads to the renowned Gannet Colony, where thousands of Australasian gannets nest on the clifftops during the breeding season. Watching these impressive seabirds soar, dive, and interact in their natural environment is a memorable wildlife experience unique to New Zealand’s coastline.

Alternatively, take a scenic ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island and enjoy a relaxed half-day hop-on hop-off exploration. Discover the island at your own pace as you visit charming coastal villages, beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, olive groves, art galleries, and scenic viewpoints. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery make it one of Auckland’s most popular destinations.

Return to Auckland by evening and settle into your accommodation after a memorable day of sightseeing and exploration.

Start your second day of the tour with a pickup and a scenic drive towards the Hobbiton Movie Set. This enchanting village is set in the heart of the lush Waikato region, and the movie set is a meticulous recreation of the Shire from J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved books. As you wander through Hobbiton on a fully guided tour, you'll discover charming hobbit holes, the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and stunning landscapes.

Continue your journey to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture. Check in to your hotel, and get ready for the famous Redwoods Treewalk — a must-do experience in Rotorua. This walk features swing bridges and platforms, offering stunning views of towering trees and the lush forest floor.

In the evening, enjoy dinner time at Eat Street, Rotorua's vibrant dining precinct, offering a range of delicious cuisine options.

Welcome the morning with adventure ahead. Based on your appetite for adventure, choose between two unique experiences: For a relaxed afternoon, opt for the farm experience at Agrodome followed by a private hot pool session at Polynesian Spa. Enjoy a farm show with sheep shearing & a dog show, and tour the 350-acre property to meet and hand-feed animals. Later, unwind in a soothing private hot pool nestled in a serene place. Alternatively, if you're seeking thrills, go for Grade 5 river rafting on the Kaituna River, navigating challenging rapids and a 7-meter waterfall, one of the highest commercially rafted waterfalls in the world.

In the late afternoon, get ready for an unforgettable experience at a place known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture. Enjoy a guided walk to witness the power of active geysers, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents. Enjoy a delicious Hangi feast, where your food is cooked in the ground using traditional methods, adding a unique and authentic touch to your dining experience. Later, experience a traditional Māori welcome ceremony, including the powerful haka (war dance), along with engaging cultural performances that showcase the history and traditions of the Māori people.

It's time to say goodbye to the North Island and start your South Island adventure. After checking out from your hotel in Rotorua, you'll be picked up and taken to Rotorua or Auckland Airport for your flight to Christchurch.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, you'll be transferred to your hotel. After settling in and refreshing, choose one of three activities: visit the International Antarctic Centre, go punting on the Avon River, or ride the famous Christchurch Tram.

The International Antarctic Centre offers interactive exhibits, a simulated storm, a ride on an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle, and a penguin encounter. Punting on the Avon River provides a peaceful glide through the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park. The Christchurch Tram offers a unique perspective on Christchurch's history and landmarks, with knowledgeable drivers providing commentary and stops at key attractions. Due to travel between the North and South Islands, and the need to rest for the next leg of your journey, it is recommended you enjoy the rest of your day in Christchurch, relaxing and recharging for the epic South Island journey that begins the next day.

Start this beautiful day by being picked up from your hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Kaikoura or Akaroa, each offering a unique experience based on your preferred activities.

Kaikōura, famed for its stunning coastal scenery where rugged mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, lies near a unique underwater canyon system that draws abundant marine life, including whales. Opt for a guided kayaking adventure alongside seals, sea birds, and possibly dolphins, or a whale-watching cruise to spot majestic sperm whales, humpbacks, or orcas while learning about their habitat.

Akaroa, a charming French-inspired village, invites you to explore its beauty with a 2-hour nature cruise, uncovering its rich history and unique wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphins, the smallest dolphins in the world. Follow this with a visit to a charming alpaca farm for cuddly encounters with these adorable animals.

After your chosen day tour, we’ll return to Christchurch and drop you off at your hotel.

Start your day by being picked up from your accommodation in Christchurch. Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Railway Station, where you will be greeted and taken to your next destination.

Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk. Take a break at Lake Lyndon as we drive towards Lake Tekapo.

Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.

Start another beautiful day with a pickup from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.

Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Opt for the Hooker Valley Track, featuring famous swing bridges. Alternatively, choose the Tasman Glacier Walks for a different perspective. Look out for the kea, the world's only alpine parrot.

It's time to embark on a scenic helicopter ride. Soar above the stunning valleys and peaks of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park in one of the modern helicopters. Experience breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the surrounding snow-capped ranges as you fly. Relax and enjoy this unique experience with onboard commentary from pilot.

Pass through Lindis Pass on your way to Queenstown. Stop at Lindis Pass Summit Lookout to enjoy endless vistas of mountains. Upon arrival in Queenstown, check in to your accommodation and prepare for the adventures that await in this vibrant lakeside city.

Start your beautiful day in Queenstown with a pickup from your hotel. Visit the famous Queenstown Gardens, located on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views. After exploring the gardens, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of central Queenstown to experience the city's cheerful vibes. Relax by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake. After this moment of calmness, prepare yourself to experience the power of twin V8 engines as you jet boat down the Kawarau or Shotover River. Reaching speeds of up to 95 kmph, enjoy the adrenaline rush with multiple 360-degree spins.

After jet boating, there's more to enjoy. Take a ride on the Queenstown Gondola, which is believed to be the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. Upon reaching the top, you'll be treated to spectacular views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Walter and Cecil Peak, and, of course, Queenstown itself. Spend quality time at the top exploring the area, or engaging in fun activities like thrilling luge rides and open-air chairlifts. Watch the sunset from this vantage point. Afterwards, take a return ride on the Gondola back down, where you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel to relax and recharge for another epic day, exploring Milford Sound.

Start this unforgettable day with a pickup from your Queenstown hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, both located in Fiordland National Park, each showcasing the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s fiords in their own distinct way.

Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic stops and nature walks along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home.

Begin your journey with a peaceful cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a scenic coach ride over Wilmot Pass, offering spectacular views of untouched rainforest and alpine scenery. Upon arrival at Doubtful Sound, board a cruise to explore the vast, remote fiord known for its deep stillness and dramatic landscapes. Surrounded by towering peaks, hidden waterfalls, and native wildlife, the experience feels truly immersive and untouched.

Enjoy the drive back to Te Anau and end the day filled with beautiful memories as you check in to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Be picked up from your hotel in Te Anau. Prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country's caves. They create a mesmerizing display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience. Later, sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Queenstown, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way.

Choose to experience either the unique Kiwi Park or a relaxing hot pool. Kiwi Park: Experience the wonder of NZ's unique wildlife at the Kiwi Park. Get up close to the iconic kiwi bird, discover the ancient tuatara, a fascinating reptile that has existed since the time of the dinosaurs, along with a variety of other native species, in a natural and immersive environment. Know the park's conservation efforts and the importance of preserving NZ's precious biodiversity. Private Hot Pool Soak: Relax at one of the most popular hot pools in NZ — a serene retreat perched above the Shotover River. Soak in a private cedar-lined hot tub while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river below. This tranquil experience offers the perfect balance of luxury and nature. It's time to say goodbye as we drop you off in Queenstown. You can either start another adventure or catch your optional departure flight to Auckland or Christchurch. May the memories never fade.