Budget Kiwi Adventure From Auckland - 14 days
Budget Kiwi Adventure From Auckland - 14 days
Budget Kiwi Adventure From Auckland - 14 days
14 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Raglan, Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Christchurch
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on a thrilling 14-day Budget Kiwi Adventure from Auckland, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand. Begin your journey in Auckland, then venture to Rotorua's geothermal wonders and the adventure hub of Taupo. Discover the enchanting caves of Waitomo and surf the waves at Raglan. Fly to Christchurch and unwind by the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo. Experience the adrenaline rush in Queenstown, the adventure capital, and marvel at the stunning Milford Sound. Traverse the rugged beauty of Wanaka and Franz Josef, where glaciers and rainforests meet. Conclude your epic journey through the scenic Arthur's Pass back to Christchurch. Enjoy the camaraderie of a small group, guided by an expert, with comfortable hostel accommodations and a luxury vehicle for travel. This tour offers flexibility with optional activities, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your desires.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: hostel
Auckland - Hahei. We'll depart from Queens Wharf at around 09:00 (details in Trip Notes), so be prepared to begin your adventure! The journey to Coromandel is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with your guide and fellow travellers. We’ll enjoy a scenic drive, with a lunch stop at Mount Maunganui. Here, you can choose to hike up or around the Mount. Following the coast, we'll make our way to Hahei. Depending on our arrival time, we’ll either head to Hot Water Beach to dig our own hot pools or kayak around the breathtaking Cathedral Cove.
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: Rotorua
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.
Day 3: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for an action-packed day in Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal hotspot. Whether it's luging, zorbing, white water rafting, taking in cultural performances, or simply admiring the fascinating geothermal scenery, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to choose from!
Day 4-5: Taupo
Location: Taupo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rotorua - Taupo. Next, our journey takes us to Taupo, known as the adventure hub of the North Island. We'll witness the roaring Huka Falls and the area's trout-rich rivers before we relax with a sunset drink by the beautiful shores of Lake Taupo. As night falls, you can either enjoy a scenic sailing cruise on the lake or dine at one of the excellent local restaurants.
Day 5 is at leisure to explore the lake, either from the water's edge or from 15,000 feet above! The choice is yours. Spend the day tackling the Tongariro Crossing, jetboating, sailing, exploring, or bungy jumping – there are endless activities in Taupo! After an action-packed day, unwind with a glass of wine or a craft beer from a local brewery and share your exciting experiences with fellow travellers.
Day 6: Raglan
Location: Raglan
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Taupo - Raglan. We have an early start this morning to get on the road and leave the Great Lake behind as we head to Raglan. Before reaching the surf town, we’ll navigate through the underground caving town of Waitomo, where you’ll have 3.5 hours to enjoy some adventure. Whether you prefer wet or dry activities, we’ve got you covered! Your guide will be available to help you plan your time in Waitomo. Afterward, we’ll continue to Raglan and perhaps enjoy a beer on the beach.
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: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Raglan - Auckland - Christchurch. Rise early this morning for an epic optional surf lesson at an iconic beach. At around 1 pm, we'll begin our journey back to Auckland. Along the way, we’ll make plenty of photo stops and potentially drop by New Zealand’s favourite ice cream spot! We aim to reach Auckland Airport by approximately 4 pm, where we'll catch our included flight to Christchurch. Your flight is scheduled for either 6 pm or 7 pm, and your boarding pass will be provided to you. Upon arrival in Christchurch, you'll be transferred to tonight's accommodation.
Please note: Some travellers may be ending their tour in Auckland, and others may join you in Christchurch for our exploration of the South Island. The maximum group size will never be exceeded.
Day 8: Tekapo
Location: Tekapo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Christchurch - Tekapo. Setting off from Christchurch, we journey to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand’s most picturesque locations. Discover the local bike trails, then unwind in the lakeside hot springs, perfect for stargazing in the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Day 9: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tekapo - Queenstown. Today, we’re off to Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of New Zealand! Before we depart, you'll have some time to squeeze in any activities or hikes you missed yesterday. Once we arrive, we’ll get you checked into your accommodation for the next three days and then head out to explore. Queenstown is the ultimate destination for ticking off bucket list adventures, offering everything from skydiving and bungy jumping to canyoning and ziplining.
Day 10: Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown. Today we enjoy a day trip to UNESCO-listed Milford Sound, home to grand waterfalls, ancient forests, stunning mountain vistas, and playful dolphins. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery on an optional cruise through the fjord, unwind with a beer, join a lively party, or savour New Zealand’s famous Fergburger. We head back to Queenstown for the night.
Day 11: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Whether you're into bungy jumping, canyon swinging, or horse riding, Queenstown offers an adventure for everyone! Experience one of New Zealand's most picturesque skydives, explore the trails with a bike ride, go luging, or take a jet boat up the canyon. Today is completely free for you to explore and enjoy some of the area's optional excursions. Your guide will be on hand to book trips for you.
Day 12: Wanaka
Location: Wanaka
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Queenstown - Wanaka - Franz Josef. Following a break in picturesque Wanaka, get ready to be amazed as we journey along a rugged coastline adjacent to ancient rainforests, icy glaciers, and crashing waterfalls. We will then traverse Haast Pass and arrive at Franz Josef, the gateway to glacier country.
Day 13: Franz Josef
Location: Franz Josef
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Get your crampons ready, because Franz Josef might just be the most stunning place you'll ever see. Discover breathtaking formations sculpted over millennia, accessible for hiking, helicopter tours, or a combination of both! Prefer a lower altitude? You can also enjoy quad biking, kayaking, or unwinding in the glacier hot pools, and then relax with a cold drink to fully take in the experience.
Day 14: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Franz Josef - Christchurch. After a brief visit to the picturesque Hokitika, embark on a breathtaking journey through Arthur's Pass amidst the magnificent snow-capped Southern Alps. Our adventure concludes back in Christchurch at approximately (details in Trip Notes).
What's Included
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13 breakfasts & 2 dinners
Enjoy 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners during your tour.
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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 Auckland - Christchurch
A domestic flight from Auckland to Christchurch is included.
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Huka Falls Walking Loop
Experience the Huka Falls Walking Loop.
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Castle Rock Walk
Enjoy the Castle Rock Walk.
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Hot Water Beach (tide dependent)
Visit Hot Water Beach, subject to tide conditions.
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Visit to the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve at Tekapo
Visit the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve at Tekapo.
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Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland entry in Rotorua
Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland in Rotorua is included.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included.
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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. -
Optional activities and experiences
Optional activities and experiences are not included and can be booked locally.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
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 Auckland to Christchurch.
Accommodation
Enjoy 13 nights in mixed-sex dorm accommodation at well-equipped hostels, 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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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. Additionally, there is a domestic flight from Auckland to Christchurch included.
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Is there a guide accompanying the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Included activities are the Huka Falls Walking Loop, Castle Rock Walk, Hot Water Beach (tide dependent), a visit to the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve at Tekapo, and entry to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland in Rotorua. Transport to Milford Sound is also included, with an optional cruise.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are various optional activities available throughout the tour, such as visiting Hobbiton, participating in a traditional hangi feast at Mitai Maori Village, and engaging in adventure activities in Queenstown and Taupo. These can be booked and paid for locally.
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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 of up to 8 in hostels. 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.