Budget Christchurch, Abel Tasman & Auckland - 14 days

Budget Christchurch, Abel Tasman & Auckland - 14 days

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14 Days From

$3665

Budget Christchurch, Abel Tasman & Auckland - 14 days

14 Days Starting in Christchurch, New Zealand and ending in Raglan, New Zealand

Visiting: Christchurch, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo, Raglan

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 18

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Budget

Activities:

Hiking, Surfing, Whale Watching

From: $3665

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a 14-day budget-friendly adventure through New Zealand, exploring the stunning landscapes of Christchurch, Abel Tasman, and Auckland. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences and free time to tailor your journey. Marvel at the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki, explore the pristine beaches and wildlife of Abel Tasman National Park, and enjoy wine tasting in Marlborough. Discover the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the adventure hub of Lake Taupo, and the glowworm caves of Waitomo. Relax on the beaches of Raglan, a top surfing destination, before concluding your journey in Auckland. With comfortable dorm accommodations, expert local guides, and luxury transport, this tour promises an unforgettable Kiwi experience. Optional activities like skydiving, kayaking, and cultural experiences allow you to customize your adventure. Enjoy included breakfasts, dinners, and a domestic flight, making this an ideal trip for young travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Punakaiki - Admire the famous Pancake Rocks and enjoy free time to explore or embark on optional excursions.

  • Abel Tasman National Park - Take an included day trip to Golden Bay and enjoy a free day for skydiving, canyoning or kayaking.

  • Kaikoura - Spot whales and dolphins at the shoreline or on a boat trip and enjoy scenic cliff walks along the coast.

  • Rotorua - Spend two nights in this land of geological and volcanic formations, with optional activities and the chance to visit Hobbiton.

  • Lake Taupo - See the Huka Falls and enjoy scenic hiking around Lake Taupo, with plenty of possibilities for optional sailing.

  • Waitomo - Explore the cavernous networks of caves and tunnels with optional excursions.

  • Raglan - Relax on the beach or catch some waves at one of New Zealand's top surfing destinations.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: hostel

Christchurch - Punakaiki. You will be collected from our pick up point in Christchurch at approximately 9:00 (detail in the Trip Notes). This morning we set off from Christchurch to begin our South Island adventure. We'll cross one of three spectacular passes through the Southern Alps, making our way towards the West Coast. Our journey via the Lewis Pass will lead us through pristine beech forests, alpine wetlands, and along the Lewis River. Although we have a considerable distance to travel, we’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery and take several scenic breaks en route to the picturesque town of Punakaiki.





Please note: This tour offers a variety of optional excursions throughout the tour that can be booked and paid for locally. We will give examples of some of the optional activities available on tour, your guide can assist you with any other available options. Sightseeing and activities are generally not included on tour, this gives you the flexibility to shape your own adventure!

Day 2: Punakaiki

Location: Punakaiki

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is for exploring Punakaiki, a delightful coastal village which is the perfect beachside destination for adventure and discovery. It is famed for the Pancake Rocks, where columns of water are sent skyward from rock formations that resemble stacks of hotcakes. Spend the afternoon exploring these geological marvels, wandering through lush coastal forests, striking limestone cliffs and canyons, mysterious caves, pristine rivers, and an absolutely breathtaking coastline.

Day 3: Punakaiki

Location: Abel Tasman National Park

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Punakaiki - Abel Tasman National Park. We travel along the untamed west coast, making stops for breathtaking lighthouse views and to observe resident seal colonies. Heading inland, we journey through the picturesque Nelson Lakes on our way to Abel Tasman National Park, often considered one of New Zealand's most stunning natural reserves. You can spend the afternoon discovering the quaint town of Abel Tasman, or embark on an adventure to gather fresh, green-lipped mussels.

Day 4: Abel Tasman National Park

Location: Abel Tasman National Park

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Abel Tasman National Park - Golden Bay - Abel Tasman National Park. Today, we journey to Golden Bay, home to New Zealand's longest sandspit, along with breathtaking beaches and diverse wildlife. Prepare for an adventure as we explore the Ngarua Caves, followed by a walk around Te Waikoropupu Springs, renowned for its remarkably clear water. Lastly, we'll follow the track to Wharariki Beach, the northernmost point on the South Island. After our day of exploration, we return to Abel Tasman for the night.

Day 5: Abel Tasman National Park

Location: Abel Tasman National Park

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you have the flexibility to explore Abel Tasman in various ways: kayaking, sailing, hiking, canyoning, or even skydiving! For a more relaxing experience, you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach and find out why we believe this National Park boasts some of New Zealand’s finest beaches. With a bit of luck, you might also encounter some of New Zealand’s fascinating native wildlife, such as the Tui and the Tuatara.

Day 6: Abel Tasman National Park

Location: Abel Tasman National Park

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Abel Tasman National Park - Marlborough - Kaikoura. As we leave Abel Tasman, we head to the renowned Marlborough Wine Region. Driving through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, we'll make a stop at one of our favorite wineries. Here, you can enjoy a sip or two of its world-famous Sauvignon Blanc with an included tasting and capture some Instagram-worthy shots in the vineyards.





Our next destination is Kaikoura, one of the few places in the world that can boast such natural wonders both by land and sea. As we approach the town, you'll notice the dramatic, rugged cliffs at its edge, which are just as impressive as the whale watching and dolphin swimming opportunities.





Please note: There are two included group dinners on this tour. These will take place at a favourite spot of your guide, and the days on which they take place will vary by tour and guide!

Day 7: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kaikoura - Christchurch - Auckland. Spend the morning completing the rest of your bucket list, whether it's spotting seals, searching for whales, or swimming with dolphins. Following a morning of adventure, we'll hit the road for our drive back to Christchurch.





We aim to reach Christchurch Airport by approximately 16:00, where we'll catch our included flight to Auckland. Your flight is scheduled for either 18:00 or 19:00, and your boarding pass will be provided to you. Upon arrival in Auckland, you'll be transferred to tonight's accommodation.





Please note: Some travellers may be ending their tour in Christchurch, and others may join you in Auckland for our exploration of the North Island. The maximum group size will never be exceeded.

Day 8: Auckland

Location: Coromandel Peninsula

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Auckland - Hahei. Our journey to the Coromandel Peninsula offers a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with your guide and fellow travellers. We’ll enjoy a picturesque drive, taking in the stunning scenery with many stops along the way until we arrive in Hahei.





You can discover the Gateway to Narnia at Cathedral Cove, spend the afternoon kayaking or swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and then enjoy the sunset from the natural hot pools at Hot Water Beach.

Day 9: Hahei

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hahei - Rotorua. We bid farewell to the Coromandel Peninsula and make our way to Rotorua, with a stop at Hobbiton along the route so you can explore the renowned Lord of the Rings movie set (optional). In the evening, you’ll have the option to visit the enchanting Mitai Maori Village, where you can immerse yourself in Maori culture, traditions, and enjoy a traditional hangi feast.





Rotorua offers a plethora of activities: explore the bubbling mud pools at one of the geothermal parks, take a walk around the lake, or hike and bike through the stunning Redwood Forest on the town's edge. For those seeking adventure, options include luging, zorbing, or tackling white water rafting on the mighty Kaituna River. This evening, you have the chance to visit Matai Maori Village and enjoy a traditional hangi dinner.

Day 10: Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is completely free for you to enjoy a day full of activities in and around Rotorua. Take a zip line tour, relax with a Polynesian spa, head out on a kayaking adventure or hike the stunning Mount Tarawera volcanic crater. Your guide will be on hand to advise you on activities and to get everything booked in for you.

Day 11: Rotorua

Location: Taupo

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rotorua - Taupo. After breakfast, we set off on the next leg of our journey, with our destination being Taupo, the adventure capital of the North Island. We’ll visit the impressive Huka Falls and explore trout-filled rivers before relaxing with a sunset beer by the stunning shores of Lake Taupo. For the evening, you might choose to dine at one of the local restaurants or opt for a scenic evening sailing cruise on the lake.

Day 12: Taupo

Location: Taupo

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

You'll have the entire day to explore Lake Taupo and its surroundings, whether from the water's edge or from 15,000 feet above! The choice is yours. You can spend the day tackling the Tongariro Crossing, jetboating, sailing, exploring, or bungy jumping, Taupo offers endless options! After an exhilarating day, you can relax with a glass of wine or a craft beer from a local brewery and share your adventures with your fellow travellers.

Day 13: Taupo

Location: Waitomo

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Taupo - Waitomo - Raglan. We have an early start today and our journey leads to Waitomo, a town famous for its underground wonders. You can explore the depths as you crawl, abseil, raft, and navigate tight passages through the dark caverns, illuminated by the soft glow of the native glowworms. We'll spend about 3.5 hours in Waitomo before completing our drive to the surf town of Raglan. Spend your evening unwinding with a cool beer beachside.

Day 14: Raglan

Location: Raglan

Accommodation Name: hostel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Raglan - Auckland. Raglan is the ultimate laid-back surf town in New Zealand, famous for its world-class left-hand break. You’ll get to explore the dramatic coastal scenery, stroll along the unique black sand beach, and maybe even catch a wave or two. At around 1pm, we begin our return drive to Auckland, ensuring we make several photo stops along the way. We might even visit New Zealand's favourite ice cream spot! We expect to arrive at the airport around 4 pm, where we'll bid farewell to some of you. If you're staying in the city, we can provide a drop-off in town (detail in Trip Notes).

What's Included

  • 13 breakfast & 2 dinners

    Enjoy 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners included in the tour package.

  • 13 nights dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels (mixed-sex)

    Stay in mixed-sex dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels for 13 nights.

  • Escorted by an expert local driver/guide

    The tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.

  • Transportation in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning and a sound system perfect for road trip singalongs

    Travel in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system.

  • Domestic flight Christchurch - Auckland

    A domestic flight from Christchurch to Auckland is included.

  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowhole walk

    Visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and enjoy a walk to see the blowholes.

  • Ohau Point and Cape Foulwind seal colonies

    Explore the seal colonies at Ohau Point and Cape Foulwind.

  • Abel Tasman National Park

    Visit the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

  • Wine tasting in Marlborough

    Enjoy a wine tasting experience in the Marlborough region.

  • Hot Water Beach (Tide Dependent)

    Visit Hot Water Beach, subject to tide conditions.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Airport transfers

    Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.

  • Optional activities and experiences (book locally - approximate pricing is in the Trip Notes)

    Optional activities and experiences are not included and can be booked locally.

  • Tip for your tour guide / driver

    Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.

    It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with transportation in a luxury vehicle featuring Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system perfect for road trip singalongs, plus a domestic flight from Christchurch to Auckland.

Accommodation

Enjoy 13 nights of dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels with mixed-sex dorms, providing a comfortable and budget-friendly stay throughout your New Zealand adventure.

Age Policy

No official maximum age but these tours are aimed at the 18-30s market. Accommodation is in mixed-sex dorm rooms of up to 8 in hostels. This is a budget, backpacker-type product. Older pax should be steered towards Pure Discoveries product or Wild Kiwi's premium tours.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides 13 nights of dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels, which are mixed-sex.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners.

  • Is there a domestic flight included in the tour?

    Yes, there is a domestic flight included from Christchurch to Auckland.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system suitable for road trip singalongs.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.

  • Are there any activities included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes activities such as the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowhole walk, visits to Ohau Point and Cape Foulwind seal colonies, entry to Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland in Rotorua, and a walking loop at Huka Falls.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include skydiving, canyoning, kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, visiting Hobbiton, exploring geothermal parks in Rotorua, and various adventure activities in Taupo such as bungy jumping and jetboating.

  • Is wine tasting included in the tour?

    Yes, there is an included wine tasting in the Marlborough region.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The tour is aimed at the 18-30s market, with accommodation in mixed-sex dorm rooms. There is no official maximum age, but older participants are recommended to consider other products like Pure Discoveries or Wild Kiwi's premium tours.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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