Nah Mai, Haere Mai & Welcome to Aotearoa!

Firstly, you’ll meet your Travel Buddies and Local Bud, who will run you through the itinerary before a city tour of Auckland’s CBD. Spend the afternoon exploring the waterfront or take a public bus to Mt Eden, a dormant volcano with stunning views.

In the evening, we’ve organised a welcome dinner at your accommodation before a night on the town.

Hop on the ferry to Waiheke Island, where beach culture meets world-class vineyards. With its own microclimate, expect warmer temperatures than the mainland – keep an eye out for orcas and dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf, as you pass Rangitoto Volcano.

Once ashore, explore the island by bus or rent a car with your Local Bud to visit Waiheke’s beaches, cafés, and vineyards. Make sure to catch the last ferry back for your final night in the city… Tomorrow’s a big day!

Rise early and head to SkyCity to catch the Intercity Tour to Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton. Travel through Waikato’s lush farmland before descending into the underground waterways of Waitomo’s glowworm-lit caves.

Once surfaced, you can enjoy a short forest walk before the guided Hobbiton tour, including behind-the-scenes secrets and iconic cinematic landmarks. Wrap the trip up with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, before continuing to the heart of Māori culture, Rotorua.

Morena! Enjoy a relaxed morning before exploring Rotorua later on – Why not try white water rafting, visiting Mt Tarawera, or a soak in the natural hot pools.

At 4 PM, your Te Puia experience begins with a guided tour of this historic geothermal valley. Your guide will share cultural insights and personal stories, providing an unforgettable insight to Māori heritage.

Enjoy a free day to explore Rotorua at your own pace. Visit the stunning Blue and Green Lakes, walk through the towering redwoods, or unwind in a natural hot spring. Tomorrow, a lakeside destination awaits!

This Morning you’ll head to the heart of New Zealand’s central volcanic plateau, where you’ll find Lake Taupo, the largest freshwater lake in Australasia.

In the afternoon you’ll cruise the lake via sail boat, visiting the famous Māori rock carvings. Bring a few drinks, relax on deck, and enjoy the scenery before heading to dinner with your new crew.

Quirky recommendation: visit Taupo’s iconic McDonald’s, where you can dine inside a vintage aeroplane!

Open day to visit Huka Falls, take a short walk to Spa Thermal Park, or explore the lake.
Additionally, for unforgettable views of the region, thrill-seekers can skydive from 15,000ft.

However, if hiking is more your style; tackle the Tongariro Crossing, one of the world’s greatest day hikes – this epic trail crosses two volcanoes and the dramatic Mordor landscapes from The Lord of the Rings’.

Fuel up before boarding the bus… it’s a big travel day! Enjoy one of the North Island’s most scenic routes as you drive around Lake Taupo and the rugged Desert Road’s sweeping plains, tussock fields, and snow-capped mountains.

Upon arrival, a shuttle will take you to your accommodation where you can unwind before heading out to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Today, you explore the capital! Visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, and learn about the country’s rich history. You can also stop by Parliament’s iconic “Beehive” building or browse the city’s bustling markets and shops. Additionally, for any Lord of the Rings fans, Weta Workshop is a must-visit—home to the props and studios that brought Middle-earth to life.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a final North Island dinner before making the leap.

Say Ka Kite to the North Island as you ferry across the Cook Strait and be sure to grab a prime seat for the scenic journey through Marlborough Sounds, keeping an eye out for dolphins riding the waves.

Arriving in Picton, you’ll hop back on the bus to Nelson, the geographical heart of New Zealand – known for its sunshine, golden beaches, and creative arts scene. Nelson is also a gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, local vineyards, and incredible seafood.

Explore the national park’s golden beaches, granite cliffs, and crystal-clear water – your included sea shuttle allows you to hike, kayak, or relax at your own pace.

Prefer a slower day? Take a vineyard tour through Marlborough, famous for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Depart after breakfast for a LONG but scenic travel day ahead! Stopping first in the heart of Marlborough’s wine country, perfect for some leisurely wine tasting and lunch.

Continue south along the stunning coastline where mountains meet the sea. Keep watch for fur seals basking on the rocks before arriving in Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city. Your accommodation is beside the bus terminal, so quickly drop your bags and head down to enjoy a group dinner.

A free day to unwind & explore Christchurch! Visit the historic cathedral ruins from the ’10 – ’11 earthquakes, take a tram to the vibrant New Regent Street, relax at Sumner Beach, or venture further to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula for a day trip.

Head to the glacial blue waters of Lake Tekapo, arriving just a short walk from your accommodation, where you’ll stay for two nights to make the most of Tekapo’s renowned Dark Sky Reserve.

Tonight, stargaze under one of the clearest night skies across the globe, where you can spot the Milky Way, nebulae, and constellations – consider visiting the observatory for an even closer look.

A full day to soak in the beauty… Take a walk along the lake, visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, or simply relax by the shore.

For those looking to explore further, we’ve included a shuttle to Aoraki/Mount Cook – the highest mountain in Australasia – for those keen to do a Heli-Hike, we offer an epic aerial experience over Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier.

Tonight, you’ll have another chance to to stargaze at the breathtaking Dark Sky Reserve!

Time to hit the adventure capital of the world… Queenstown!

Upon arrival, explore the bustling town centre, filled with shops, markets, and lively restaurants – a must-try? The famous Fergburger (local classic).

Hit the town later on and experience the vibrant nightlife, from stylish cocktail bars to buzzing clubs.

Prepare for a full-day journey to Milford Sound! Sit back and take in the breathtaking scenery, with scenic stops for photos. Followed by a 1.5-hour nature cruise, where you’ll glide past waterfalls, spot fur seals on the rocks, and potentially… enjoy dolphins swimming alongside the boat.

A day to do as much (or as little) as you like!
Relax by the lake, explore the town, or dive into more adventure:

• Bungy Jumping or Canyon Swing for the thrill-seekers.
• Catapult, Paragliding, or Skydiving for an aerial view of Queenstown.
• Skiing (Winter) or Wakeboarding (Summer) for those wanting to hit the water or slopes.

Kickstart your day with an adrenaline-packed Jet Boat tour through the legendary Skippers Canyon. En-route, you’ll enjoy a thrilling drive up the infamous Skippers Road, before powering down the Shotover River.

Speak to your Local Rep about more adventure activities this afternoon, or take a sunset hike up Queenstown Hill for unforgettable views. Ending the day with another night in Queenstown… plenty more nightlife to explore!

Hit the road to Wanaka, passing through iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations. With its glacial blue lake, towering peaks, and laid-back vibe, Wanaka is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque mountain towns.

You’ve the choice to:

• Hike the famous Roys Peak for jaw-dropping views.
• Visit the Wanaka Tree, the most photographed tree in NZ.
• Take a bike ride or simply unwind in town.

We’re heading back to Queenstown! After an epic few days on the road, it’s time to return to the adventure capital for a well-earned reset. Once you’ve checked in, spend the afternoon unwinding – whether that’s with a lakeside stroll, a visit to the local shops, or tucking into the iconic Fergburger. In the evening, regroup with your Buddies for another go at Queenstown’s legendary nightlife.

Enjoy a free day to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Chase those alpine views on a scenic flight, hike one of the nearby trails, or just soak up the buzz of the town centre.

If you’re looking to level up your adventure, today’s the perfect time to hit Queenstown’s ski slopes or visit Franz Josef for the infamous glacial Heli-Hike.

There are plenty of awesome hikes to do around Queenstown, visit some of the local vineyards or take a trip out to Arrowtown.

Today’s all about making the most of your final full day in Queenstown. Why not take this opportunity to hit the slopes skiing or snowboarding. See your local buddy to get all your gear and pass.

Whether that’s grabbing coffee with a view, snapping some last pics, or kicking back with your friends at a local bar, today is your chance to slow down and savour it all – before rounding things off with one last big night out with the crew, as a farewell to the South Island.

It’s your last morning in Queenstown with your Buddies. Enjoy a final breakfast together as you reminisce on the memories you’ve shared with friends that’ll last a lifetime.

Seeking another adventure? Consider hopping over to Australia’s East Coast with our epic 32 Day Travel Buddies Tour!

Cancellation & Refund Policy: Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:
Cancellations within 21 Days of the start date incur a 100 % fee.
22-30 Days of the start date incur a 80% fee

Cancellations outside of these periods incur a 50% fee.

Please note that changes to the itinerary may occur due to weather, operator changes & cancellations. A suitable and comparable replacement will take place on such occasions.

If a third party operator cancels on the Adventure Pack, we will organise a replacement activity. If a suitable replacement cannot be found, a fee will be refunded.

*Itinerary days may change from trip to trip due to availability or transport schedules.

Travel Buddies will book all of the accommodation, bus sectors, and activities within your package for you. It is your responsibility to be at the correct pick-up or start location on time. If you fail to show up for your activity or miss the bus, you will not be refunded, and in the case of missing a bus sector, you will be responsible for your own travel arrangements and associated costs. Whilst you do not have an official guide for this trip, you will have someone dedicated to your group in the chat to help out along the way.

On the Friday before your departure, you’ll be added to a group chat on Whatsapp with all of your Local & Travel Buddies, so you can meet up before your departure from Auckland. Each day within this chat we will keep you up to date with where you need to be, what you will be doing, and links to Google Maps to easily find your way around. Whilst you do not have a guide for this trip, you will have someone dedicated to your group in the chat to help out along the way. Don’t forget, it’s still up to you to be at the correct pick-up or start location on time.

We will send a confirmation email to you once you have officially booked your spot on Travel Buddies! An itinerary specific to your trip will be finalised and sent to you no less than 14 days prior to your trip, with bus times and activity times.

From the 1st of April 2024, travel insurance is compulsory when booking Travel Buddies. Your policy should cover you in case you get sick or injured (COVID-19 or otherwise), lose an item, or miss your tour. If you already have travel insurance, please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

We highly recommend arriving into Auckland the day before your tour start date, otherwise you risk the chance of missing the meet up. With this, you’ll have the chance to explore the city at your ow pace first before meeting up with your group. You will be added to your Whatsapp group chat the Friday before your departure date, so you can plan any pre-check-in meet ups with your group from there. You will also be given a time and place from your Auckland Local Buddy to meet for a welcome gathering in the afternoon/evening time.

Some sectors and experiences may require a minimum number of passengers to operate. In circumstances where minimum numbers are not reached an alternative option will be offered. You will be notified by email at least 48 hours in advance of such changes. In the unlikely event that the entire Travel buddies tour doesn’t meet minimum requirements, no stress – we can either find you an alternative date to travel, or create a personalised itinerary just for you.

If a tour cannot go ahead because of the weather or any other unforeseen circumstances, we’ll aim to reschedule or find an alternative activity for you. If one cannot be booked or found in time, you’ll receive a refundable amount of the discounted rate paid for that activity.

If you’d like to continue travelling once you’ve finished your Travel Buddies trip, why not reach out to your travel agent and find out some more bucket-list destinations for any onward travel – whether it’s continuing on in New Zealand, or checking out Australia – we’ve got you covered. You can also check out our destination pages for trips to incredible places like Bali, Japan, Thailand, and more!