Why not try...
South Africa Big 5 Wildlife and Community
New Zealand Ultimate Explorer
£1,799 Land Only (trip code: NZUE) 27 days
£1,799, 27 days, New Zealand
Trip Highlights
- Relaxing on the beaches and in the bars of the Bay of Islands!
- Partying in Queenstown
- Taking the chance to do some optional activities like bungee jumping and sky diving
- Biking across the worlds’ adventure capital!
Trip Summary
See full itineraryWhat's included?
- Accommodation according to the itinerary
- Meals according to itinerary
- All national park entrance/camping fees
- All travel and side trips to remote areas
- Camping equipment if needed (not including sleeping bag)
- Excursions and activities as per your itinerary
- Tour guide for the duration of your tour
- 24 hour support number and contact in the UK for emergencies
What's not included?
- All flights
- Travel insurance
- Some meals and accommodation
- Bike hire (NZ$375)
Hiking in New Zealand and biking your way around makes this the ultimate adrenaline fuelled adventure tour. One of the most flexible ways to see all the highlights of the North and South Islands at your own pace, the whole trip can be done in 27 days, but your pass is valid for 12 months.
So if you fall in love with somewhere you only move when you are ready; complete stretches of the journey by mountain bike or chill out on the bus. You can choose to start this trip from any of the stops on the tour and where you start is where you will finish.
When do I want to go?
Showing all departures (21)
| Dates of Departures | Duration | Price (Land Only) | Trip Status | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun, 19 Feb 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Tue, 28 Feb 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Thu, 8 Mar 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Mar 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Mon, 26 Mar 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Wed, 4 Apr 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Fri, 13 Apr 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sun, 22 Apr 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sun, 3 Jun 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 30 Jun 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Fri, 27 Jul 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Thu, 23 Aug 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Tue, 16 Oct 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Thu, 25 Oct 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Nov 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Mon, 12 Nov 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Wed, 21 Nov 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Fri, 30 Nov 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Sun, 9 Dec 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Tue, 18 Dec 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
| Thu, 27 Dec 2012 | 27 days | £1,799 | Available | Book now | |
What will I be doing?
-
Auckland and The Bay of Islands (Days 1 to 3)
-
Bay of Plenty, Huka Falls and Wellington (Days 4 to 8)
-
Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook (Days 9 to 13)
-
Milford Sound and the adrenalin filled Queenstown (Days 14 to 18)
-
Fox Glacier, Punakaiki and Nelson (Days 19 to 27)
Auckland and The Bay of Islands: Days 1 to 3
Next LegDestination info
If you want to pump up your adrenalin, bask in the peace and tranquillity of Milford Sound or cruise dramatic bays spotting dolphins and whales, then New Zealand is the place for you! The country consists of two main islands, the North and the South. The North Island, home to the major cities: the capital Wellington and “The city of sails” Auckland is mainly volcanic in origin boasting many seismic features such as geysers and hot springs.
The South Island is separated down its length by the Southern Alps, the highest point of which is Mount Cook/ Aoraki. For a landmass that is a little larger than the UK, the population is only 4.1 million - which makes the ratio of sheep to people 10:1! However, this means that despite the huge number of visitors that travel to New Zealand every year it never really feels crowded.
- Location: Auckland to Waiwera
Day 1
Depart the hustle and bustle of Auckland at 10am, heading towards the beautiful beaches of the Bay of Islands. Visit the historic treaty house in Waitangi and enjoy a mangrove walk, leading to the thundering Haruru waterfalls. Cycle the scenic route before stargazing around the campfire at night. L/D/U
Day 2
Spend the day enjoying the warm crystal waters of the Bay of Islands – relax on the beach or use one of the boogie boards from the bus. Take a walk through the lush Opua Forest, before cycling the scenic loop to Russell and visiting the impressive Kauri Grove along the way. B/L/D/U
Optional activities – trip to Cape Reinga; sail the Bay of Islands; go dolphin swimming; and see a traditional Maori concert and Haka!
Day 3
A day full of adventure. Popular cycle routes and walks available, before you head to the sand dunes of Opononi for some fun on the beach and optional sand boarding. Cycle or take the bus to Waipoua Forest to see the giant Kauri trees. Travel down the Hibiscus Coast to camp at the famous Waiwera hot pools for a relaxing dip. B/L/D/U
Destination info
If you want to pump up your adrenalin, bask in the peace and tranquillity of Milford Sound or cruise dramatic bays spotting dolphins and whales, then New Zealand is the place for you! The country consists of two main islands, the North and the South. The North Island, home to the major cities: the capital Wellington and “The city of sails” Auckland is mainly volcanic in origin boasting many seismic features such as geysers and hot springs.
The South Island is separated down its length by the Southern Alps, the highest point of which is Mount Cook/ Aoraki. For a landmass that is a little larger than the UK, the population is only 4.1 million - which makes the ratio of sheep to people 10:1! However, this means that despite the huge number of visitors that travel to New Zealand every year it never really feels crowded.
- Location: Coromandel Peninsula to Wellington
Day 4
Your next destination is the Coromandel Peninsula, a stunning part of Bay of Plenty where the Kiwis take their holidays. Spend the afternoon at Cathedral Cove and if the tide is right, dig your own thermal pool at Hot Water Beach. Cycle from Tairua Hill to the campsite near the beach. B/L/D/U
Day 5
After a cycle to Whiritoa beach, you’ll continue on to Rotorua, famous for its thermal springs and strong smell of sulphur! Enjoy optional activities like Zorbing or take a trip to the Polynesian Spa. Tonight you’ll camp near the dramatic Mt Tarawera. B/L/D
Day 6
Visit Wai-O-Tapu thermal pools before a visit to the amazing Huka Falls. From here you can cycle down to Lake Taupo, where you will see some famous volcanoes dominating the horizon. Ngauruhoe, featured as Mount Doom in the movie ‘Lord of the Rings’, is the most famous and arguably most impressive. Optional skydive or bungee jump. Camp in Turangi. B/L/D/U
Day 7
Today you can choose between doing the Tongariro Crossing (a famous and challenging alpine walk over the Tongariro Volcano), or cycling around the mountains. B/L/D/U
Day 8
Onto the capital Wellington to explore the café culture, good bars, restaurants and Te Papa Museum. After optional tours/shopping, the tour takes the ferry to the South Island. Accommodation is not included here, but the guide will help you with making a reservation. B
Destination info
If you want to pump up your adrenalin, bask in the peace and tranquillity of Milford Sound or cruise dramatic bays spotting dolphins and whales, then New Zealand is the place for you! The country consists of two main islands, the North and the South. The North Island, home to the major cities: the capital Wellington and “The city of sails” Auckland is mainly volcanic in origin boasting many seismic features such as geysers and hot springs.
The South Island is separated down its length by the Southern Alps, the highest point of which is Mount Cook/ Aoraki. For a landmass that is a little larger than the UK, the population is only 4.1 million - which makes the ratio of sheep to people 10:1! However, this means that despite the huge number of visitors that travel to New Zealand every year it never really feels crowded.
- Location: Kaikoura to Dunedin
Day 9
Travel the Pacific Coast to Kaikoura, where you can cycle the stunning coastal route. See seals and maybe see whales and dolphins from the shore. Optional whale watching trip. Camping is close to the beach.
Day 10
Optional dolphin swim or seal swim before the tour heads towards Christchurch. You’ll have time to explore the “Garden City”, before you go across the Canterbury plains to Rangitata Gorge. Here there are some great walks or rides to enjoy. Accommodation is at the foot of the Southern Alps. B/D/U
Day 11
Optional white water rafting on the Rangitata River. Morning cycle or walks in Peel Forest. Travel through Geraldine and Mackenzie Basin with views of the Main Divide. Walk or cycle to Lake Tekapo. You camp near Lake Pukaki, with views of Mt Cook. B/L/D
Day 12
Cycle towards Mt Cook, where you can hike around the basin. The tour then heads towards the east coast, taking a short stop in Oamaru. You will camp near the coast and have chances to cycle or swim at the beach. B/L/D
Day 13
Take a coastal walk in the morning or enjoy a cycle before you go to the bizarre Moeraki Boulders and travel on to Dunedin. Dunedin is home to the world’s steepest street (have a go at cycling it!), the Cadbury’s chocolate factory and the Speights Brewery – take a tour and sample whatever tickles your fancy! You head towards the beautiful Catlins coast and have the chance to cycle to Nugget Point, the southern most tip of the South Island. B/D/U
Destination info
If you want to pump up your adrenalin, bask in the peace and tranquillity of Milford Sound or cruise dramatic bays spotting dolphins and whales, then New Zealand is the place for you! The country consists of two main islands, the North and the South. The North Island, home to the major cities: the capital Wellington and “The city of sails” Auckland is mainly volcanic in origin boasting many seismic features such as geysers and hot springs.
The South Island is separated down its length by the Southern Alps, the highest point of which is Mount Cook/ Aoraki. For a landmass that is a little larger than the UK, the population is only 4.1 million - which makes the ratio of sheep to people 10:1! However, this means that despite the huge number of visitors that travel to New Zealand every year it never really feels crowded.
- Location: Fiordland National Park to Queenstown
Day 14
Journey through the stunning southern pastures, visiting Lake Manapouri and Te Anau. You then head to Fiordland National Park and stay in the historic camp in the Hollyford Valley, where cycle routes and walks abound. B/L/D/U
Day 15
Travel down one of the most scenic routes to Milford Sound! Cycle the descent from Homer Tunnel, before you have the option to take a cruise through the Sound itself. Stunning lakeside camp. B/L/D/U
Day 16
Your day is free to enjoy the sights and delights of Te Anau. You can take part in an optional overnight hike on the Kepler Track or you can stay in Te Anau and have the option to go jet boating or visit the glowworm caves. B/D/U
Day 17
Journey to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world! Stay in a camp that overlooks the town. Enjoy a big night out at the many bars and clubs available in this party town. B/L/U
Day 18
A day to enjoy the multitude of adrenaline inducing activities available – bungee jump, skydive, jet boat, luging, fly-by-wire and more. B/D
Previous Leg
Fox Glacier, Punakaiki and Nelson: Days 19 to 27
Destination info
If you want to pump up your adrenalin, bask in the peace and tranquillity of Milford Sound or cruise dramatic bays spotting dolphins and whales, then New Zealand is the place for you! The country consists of two main islands, the North and the South. The North Island, home to the major cities: the capital Wellington and “The city of sails” Auckland is mainly volcanic in origin boasting many seismic features such as geysers and hot springs.
The South Island is separated down its length by the Southern Alps, the highest point of which is Mount Cook/ Aoraki. For a landmass that is a little larger than the UK, the population is only 4.1 million - which makes the ratio of sheep to people 10:1! However, this means that despite the huge number of visitors that travel to New Zealand every year it never really feels crowded.
- Location: Okuru to Auckland
Day 19
A relaxed morning at the camp. Optional jet boating on the Wilkin River then over the dramatic Haast Pass. Cycle deep downhill sections past waterfalls, through the rainforest and onwards to the wild west coast. Camp at Okuru, a world heritage area. B/L/D
Day 20
From the camp, you head towards Fox Glacier, travelling through one of the Lonely Planet’s top 10 drives in the world. At Fox Glacier, there are optional guided glacial walks or the chance to heli-hike on the glacier. From here, you cycle to the Okarito beach camp. B/L/D
Day 21
Morning at Okarito. Take a cycle along the stunning coast before heading to Hokitika and visiting the Greenstone factories it’s famous for. You will stay in Punakaiki, home to the Pancake Rocks and Paparoa National Park. B/D
Day 22
Explore the outstanding sub-tropical flora and admire limestone formations in the Canyon. Stay at the same camp in Punakaiki. B/L/D/U
Day 23
Travel through Buller Gorge for some cycling and beautiful scenery to one of NZ’s most stunning spots – Abel Tasman region. Cycle the back road route. You stay 2 nights at Marahau, with Abel Tasman National Park on your doorstep. B/D/U
Day 24
Free day to explore the area. Walk or cycle and take part in recommended optional activities like sea kayaking or sailing. B/L/U
Day 25
Enjoy Nelson and take part in optional activities before heading to the Marlborough wine region via Queen Charlotte Drive. Take the evening ferry to Wellington, where you spend the night (accommodation not included). B
Day 26
Free time in the morning to see more of the capital before travelling to Taranaki. Camp at Onaero Bay, a beautiful bush setting. No meals included. U
Day 27
Early start for Waitomo Caves – a famous network of underground caves and home to hundreds of glow worms. Optional black water rafting, before heading back to Auckland and the end of the trip. B/L
Trip Notes Download
Trip Notes include a full itinerary, country guides and travel advice on visas, money, insurance and the local weather. By filling in your details you'll also be kept updated on all the latest news, offers and stories on this particular trip. Happy reading!
Additional Information & FAQs
Minimum age
18 years.
Accommodation
You will camp at the designated stops or arranging your own accommodation if you choose to stay longer or elsewhere.
Meals
The meals that are included in your trip are listed as the abbreviations below on the itinerary. Please see the different legs of your itinerary for full details.
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
U = Upgrade accommodation available
Advice & Safety
Throughout your programmes you will have the support and guidance of the programme co-ordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.
You will be assigned a personal travel advisor who will co-ordinate your programme with you. Feel free to contact them at any time before you go, or when you are on your travels.
In addition, you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our UK staff at any time should you need to.
FAQ
1. What ages are the people who join the tour?
The minimum age is 18 years old, with the average age in the mid 20s.
2. Is accommodation included?
A spacious shared tent is included, you can upgrade to cabins for a small fee on most nights.
3. Can I have a tent to myself?
Yes, for a small fee you can upgrade to have the tent to yourself.
4. How much cycling will I do?
The cycling is always optional, there are rides of all lengths to suit different fitness levels.
5. Can I hire equipment?
Yes! You can hire a bike, tent and sleeping bag.
What will I see in New Zealand?
16 photos
You might also like
- All New Trips
- All Australasia
- All Adventure travel
-
All Recently Viewed
Recently viewed
Your Complete Australia and New Zealand Gap Year
If you’ve always dreamed of living in a ...
