Budget Christchurch, Abel Tasman & Auckland - 14 days
Budget Christchurch, Abel Tasman & Auckland - 14 days
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:
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
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13 breakfast & 2 dinners
Enjoy 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners included in the tour package.
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13 nights dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels (mixed-sex)
Stay in mixed-sex dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels for 13 nights.
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Escorted by an expert local driver/guide
The tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.
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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.
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Domestic flight Christchurch - Auckland
A domestic flight from Christchurch to Auckland is included.
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Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowhole walk
Visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and enjoy a walk to see the blowholes.
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Ohau Point and Cape Foulwind seal colonies
Explore the seal colonies at Ohau Point and Cape Foulwind.
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Abel Tasman National Park
Visit the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.
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Wine tasting in Marlborough
Enjoy a wine tasting experience in the Marlborough region.
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Hot Water Beach (Tide Dependent)
Visit Hot Water Beach, subject to tide conditions.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
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Is there a domestic flight included in the tour?
Yes, there is a domestic flight included from Christchurch to Auckland.
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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.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.
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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.
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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.
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Is wine tasting included in the tour?
Yes, there is an included wine tasting in the Marlborough region.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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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+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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.