New Zealand Tours & Trips 2020
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DEPARTURE DATES
Travel Style
Travel Style
Relaxed A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full on For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Mixed You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Trip Type
Trip Type
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided / Independent Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Vacation / Holiday Package Similar to a self guided tour, this usually involves a home base, such as a hotel or resort, with packaged activities and day tours as a part of the stay.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Itinerary Focus
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Countries Visited
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Travel Theme
Travelers Age
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Continents Visited
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Exploring New Zealand featuring the North & S ...
- Experience an authentic Hangi dinner and learn about Maori culture.
- Sample local specialties of the South Island at a “Taste of Fiordland” dinner.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner on the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu.
- Cruise through the Bay of Islands’ famous “Hole in the Rock.”
- Overnight in the spectacular Mt. Cook region where permanent ice fields and glaciers blanket the ragged peaks.
- Visit a working, family-owned farm and learn about daily life in New Zealand’s high country.
- Explore Te Puia, a Maori cultural and geothermal experience.
- Take in the well-preserved Art Deco architecture of Napier.
- Relish a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound fjord.
Best of New Zealand
- Auckland : Sightseeing
- Bay of islands: Visit the Waitangi Treaty House; scenic cruise
- Rotorua : Traditional Hangi dinner and Maori cultural performance; visit Rainbow Springs and Te Puia; dinner at a local family’s home
- Marton : Visit a local farm and enjoy a barbecue lunch
- Wellington : Sightseeing including cable car ride; visit the botanic gardens and Te Papa
- Interislander ferry : Scenic cruising across Cook Strait
- Christchurch : Orientation
- Tranzalpine train: Scenic train journey
- Franz josef : Glacier Valley walk
- Queenstown : Winery visit and tasting; visit Fiordland National Park; cruise on Milford Sound; farewell dinner
- Experience the best of New Zealand on this unforgettable vacation filled with dramatic scenery, cultural exchanges, and the country’s top attractions
- Your tour starts in Auckland, ends in Queenstown, and overnights along the way in the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, and Franz Josef
Highlights of Australia and New Zealand Summer 2020
- CITY TOUR in Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland
- VISIT Uluru (Ayers Rock), Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach and Franz Josef Glacier
- VIEW Sydney Harbour Bridge on your city tour and the renowned Field of Light installation in Uluru
- CRUISE on Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour and Milford Sound

Highlights of Australia and New Zealand
- Unique dining experience on board Melbourne’s Colonial Tramcar Restaurant
- Discover Melbourne’s colourful hidden laneways and arcades
- Indulge in a unique Aussie BBQ experience at Earth Sanctuary
- Toast an Uluru sunset with gourmet canapés and wine
- Discover rock art at Uluru and learn about sacred sites
- Hike through Walpa Gorge at Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)
- Create your own dot painting
- Cruise and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef
- View Darling Harbour from your Sydney hotel room
- Dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean on Bondi Beach
- Experience Sydney Opera House on a guided tour
- Discover the glowworms of Waitomo Glowworm Grotto
- Immerse yourself in rich Maori arts and culture at an exclusive cultural dinner
- Travel on the TranzAlpine Train
- Discover spectacular Milford Sound on a lunch cruise
- Experience warm Kiwi hospitality at Morelea Farm
New Zealand Uncovered
- CITY TOUR in Auckland, Blenheim and Wellington
- VISIT a kiwifruit orchard in Te Puke, a geothermal valley in Rotorua and the Museum of New Zealand
- VIEW the Southern Alps from the TranzAlpine train
- CRUISE the Cook Strait, on Lake Wakatipu and Milford Sound
Queenstown Southern Loop

- Soak up the silence of Milford Sound on a cruise across its waters – you’ll be left speechless by the hundreds of tumbling cascades and deeply forested mountains.
- Explore the Cathedral Caves of the Catlins, an untamed coastal wilderness home to rugged cliffs, dense forest, and spectacular hidden waterfalls.
- Cross the Foveaux Strait to unspoilt Stewart Island, a haven for hikers and birdwatches and the place to spot a wild kiwi.
- Enjoy two days to explore the wilderness of Stewart Island, cruising the bays and inlets to spot penguins and seabirds and walking along its forested coastal tracks.
Cycle New Zealand South Island

- Cycle the spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail, the oldest rail trail in New Zealand and voted 'New Zealand's Favourite Ride' for the past two years.
- Ring along flat, traffic-free paths aslongside some of the South Island's most stunning scenery.
- Begin your journey in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand and arguably the world.
- Experience firsthand the famous hospitality of New Zealanders on a trail built specifically to cater for cyclists.
From the Outback to the Glaciers
- Witness Ayers Rock at sunset while you sip champagne.
- Take in the sights during a delightful dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour.
- Dine with a Kiwi family in their home.
- Overnight in the majestic Mt. Cook National Park.
- Take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House – an architectural wonder.
- Visit Hartley’s Croc Farm for a chance to get up close and personal with crocodiles.
- Explore the Great Barrier Reef.
- Discover the origins of the Aboriginal people on a "Dreamtime Tour."
- Explore Kata Tjuta and the base of Ayers Rock (Uluru).
Exploring New Zealand featuring the North & S ...
- Experience an authentic Hangi dinner and learn about Maori culture.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner on the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu.
- Cruise through the Bay of Islands’ famous “Hole in the Rock.”
- Visit spectacular Mt. Cook National Park where permanent ice fields and glaciers blanket the ragged peaks.
- Visit a working, family-owned sheep farm and learn about daily life in New Zealand’s high country.
- Explore Te Puia, a Maori cultural and geothermal experience.
- Enjoy intimate wine tastings in the famous Marlborough wine region.
- Relish a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound fjord.
From the Outback to the Glaciers
- Witness Ayers Rock at sunset while you sip champagne.
- Take in the sights during a delightful dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour.
- Meet the young Aboriginal group, Drum Atweme.*
- Take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House – an architectural wonder.
- Visit Hartley’s Croc Farm for a chance to get up-close and personal with crocodiles.
- Explore the Great Barrier Reef.
- Discover the origins of the Aboriginal people on a "Dreamtime Tour."
- Explore Kata Tjuta and the base of Ayers Rock (Uluru).
New Zealand South Island Explorer

- From the striking contrasts of the Canterbury Plains to New Zealand’s highest point at Mt Cook, the South Island’s west coast is full of spectacular sights. You’ll definitely want a window seat.
- Spend three nights in Queenstown – New Zealand's adventure capital – where you'll have tonnes of time for optional activities, from thrill-seeking jaunts to some chilled-out haunts.
- Set sail on an included cruise through the Milford Sound on the south-western coast. Passing by glacial waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and marine life, be sure to have your camera ready.
- Franz Josef Glacier is every adventurer's dream, and that’s why you’ve got the power to choose your own adventure. A guided trek across the glacier, a quad bike ride or a scenic heli-hike? It’s up to you.
- Beginning and ending in Christchurch means you’re at an ideal gateway to explore the rest of New Zealand. Better yet, why not spend more time before or after your adventure to see this city in full swing?
South Pacific Wonders
- Take in the sights during a dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour.
- Dine with a Kiwi family in their home.
- Come to know Australia’s people at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Center.
- Get up close and personal with koalas and native crocodiles at Hartley’s Croc Farm.
- Take a guided tour of the fascinating Sydney Opera House.
- Board a catamaran for an exciting excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.
- See where the original colonists first settled during a city tour of Sydney.
Australia and New Zealand Uncovered
- Taste Maori culture at a Hangi lunch.
- Join a local Kiwi family for a home cooked dinner.
- At a memorable Sounds of Silence dinner, dine under the stars overlooking Uluru (Ayers Rock).
- Sip lavender tea and enjoy culinary treats at a lavender farm in Barossa Valley.
- Explore New Zealand’s pristine wilderness and coastlines on several easy walks.
- Walk amongst the history and heritage of Maori culture.
- Spend the day at the Great Barrier Reef at leisure – with included options to snorkel, hike, or chat with a marine biologist.
- Set sail through the graceful natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park.
- Cruise through the dramatic Milford Sound.
- Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House.
New Zealand Active Adventure

- You have the power to choose your own adrenaline rush with numerous optional activities during your active adventure. Bungy jumping? Mountain hikes? Helibiking? New Zealand’s got you covered.
- Lap up the thrills and spills of a jet boating adventure through the winding Whanganui River. Both that and the cycle back to your lodge will have you and your small group in a spin.
- Choose to kayak through the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, or opt to sit back and relax on one of the scenic sea shuttles to take you into its pristine and lush surrounds.
- Discover the strangely satisfying phenomenon of Natural Flames – gas flames that naturally spring from the earth – a truly unique experience in the depths of Murchison’s forests.
- Admire the dramatic landscapes and stunning lakes and sounds as you traverse New Zealand’s countryside – it’s not just the thrill-seeking activities that will get your heart pumping!
New Zealand North Island: Hike, Bike & Canyon

- Hike to secluded coves on the east coast of the deeply forested Coromandel Peninsula and marvel at the towering natural arches.
- Luxuriate in the bubbling waters of a natural sand hot spa, dug with your own hands right on the beach.
- Tackle the trails of the world’s best mountain biking regions as you cycle through impressive redwood forest, past panoramic views and glistening lakes.
- Learn more about Maori culture with a night spent at a marae, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner as you learn about the customs and protocols of the marae.
- Wonder at the heights of towering redwood trees on a night-time hike though a lantern-lit forest and canyon though caves in search of countless glow worms on an invigorating and dazzling active adventure.
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Top New Zealand Experiences and Attractions
Top New Zealand Experiences
Exploring the quaint shores, coffee shops, and restaurants as well as an adventure activity or two in beautiful Queenstown.
Hiking one or more of New Zealand’s world-famous “tracks” -- Milford, Routeburn or others -- to challenge yourself on mountain terrain while enjoying panoramic views.
Going on a thrilling white water rafting adventure tour down Buller Gorge.
Making your way through a dark glow-worm cave on New Zealand’s South Island, with the worms glowing like stars on a cave-roof “sky.”
Sailing Milford Sound in New Zealand’s southern Fjordland, one of the world’s most spectacular boat trips.
Walking through the Whirinaki rainforest on New Zealand’s North Island in the company of a Maori guide while learning about the flora and fauna and tribal history.
New Zealand Trip Reviews
7,298 New Zealand Tour Reviews - Summary 95% Recommend
All New Zealand tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.7 for all New Zealand trips.