Budget South Island Explorer - 14 days
Budget South Island Explorer - 14 days
Budget South Island Explorer - 14 days
14 Days Starting and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand
Visiting: Christchurch, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, Golden Bay, Kaikoura
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a thrilling 14-day Budget South Island Explorer tour through New Zealand's stunning landscapes. Begin and end your journey in Christchurch, with free time to explore the vibrant city. Discover the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and spend three exhilarating nights in Queenstown, the adventure capital. Experience the awe of Franz Josef Glacier, and marvel at the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki. Enjoy a day trip to Golden Bay in Abel Tasman National Park, and savor world-class wines in Marlborough. In Kaikoura, spot whales and dolphins along the scenic coast. With 13 nights in comfortable hostels, expert local guidance, and luxury transport, this small group tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Optional activities allow you to tailor your experience, ensuring unforgettable memories in New Zealand's breathtaking South Island.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: hostel
Christchurch - Tekapo. You will be collected from our pick up spot in Christchurch (detail in Trip Notes) at 9:00. Get ready for an amazing first day as we journey to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand’s most Instagram-worthy locations. Discover the local bike trails, then unwind in the lakeside hot springs and enjoy stargazing at the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Please note: This tour comprises two separate 7-day trips exploring the northern and southern parts of New Zealand's South Island. Some people may leave the tour and others may join on arrival back in Christchurch on days 7-8. Please also be aware that the two segments sometimes run in reverse. So on some departures you will explore the northern part of the island first. Rest assured that all tour inclusions remain the same.
Please also 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: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tekapo - Queenstown. Today, we’re off to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure hub! Before we depart, you'll have some free time to squeeze in a few more activities or finish up any walks you may have missed yesterday. Once we arrive, we'll settle you into your accommodation for the next three nights before you can head out to explore. Queenstown is the ultimate destination for crossing off bucket-list experiences, offering everything from skydiving and bungy jumping to canyoning and ziplining.
Day 3: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown. We'll be starting early today, with a 7:00 departure for Milford Sound, often hailed as the eighth wonder of the world. Don't worry; breakfast will be provided on the vehicle. This journey features one of the most stunning drives in New Zealand, and we'll be making several photo stops as we enter Fjordland. You'll get to see the breathtaking Mirror Lakes and many other crystal-clear lakes along the way. Upon arriving in Milford Sound, you can opt for a cruise that navigates through the sound itself, or explore the surrounding area. If you prefer to spend an additional day in Queenstown for adventure activities, just let your guide know and this can be arranged.
Day 4: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to explore Queenstown and check off all those thrilling activities on your bucket list! Your guide will ensure breakfast is ready in your kitchen, so feel free to help yourself, as everyone will be heading out at different times. Known as the adrenaline capital of the world, Queenstown offers a plethora of heart-pounding activities including bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding, jet boating, canyoning, white-water rafting, zip lining, luging, mountain biking, horse riding, kayaking, and quad-biking. You should be able to fit in 2-3 of these exciting adventures today, so go ahead and dive into the action! Once the day wraps up, we'll all gather to share our exhilarating experiences over a meal and some drinks!
Day 5: Wanaka
Location: Wanaka
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Queenstown - Wanaka - Franz Josef. After a break in the picturesque town of Wanaka, get ready to be amazed as we journey along a rugged coastline flanked by ancient rainforests, icy glaciers, and crashing waterfalls. We will traverse the Haast Pass, eventually arriving at Franz Josef, the gateway to glacier country.
Day 6: Franz Josef
Location: Franz Josef
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Prepare your crampons because Franz Josef might just be the most breathtaking destination you'll ever encounter. Discover the spectacular ice formations sculpted over millennia, and choose between hiking, an optional scenic helicopter tour, or both, for an unforgettable experience. Prefer activities at a lower altitude? You can enjoy quad biking, kayaking, or unwinding in the glacier hot pools, then wind down with a refreshing beverage to fully appreciate the scenery.
Please note: There are two included group dinners on this tour. These will take place at a favourite spot of your guide, and the day on which they take place can vary by tour and guide!
Day 7: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Franz Josef - Christchurch. After a brief visit to the picturesque town of Hokitika, embark on a breathtaking journey through Arthur’s Pass, surrounded by the magnificent, snow-capped Southern Alps. Once back in Christchurch, spend your afternoon discovering the unique shops and pop-up cafes at leisure.
Please note: Some travellers may leave the tour in Christchurch, and others may join for the second part of our journey. Your tour guide and vehicle may also change.
Day 8: Punakaiki
Location: Punakaiki
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Christchurch - Punakaiki. As the second week of our adventure begins, we'll traverse one of the three scenic passes across the Southern Alps to reach the west coast. Taking the Lewis Pass, we journey through untouched beech forests, alpine wetlands, and alongside the Lewis River. Although we have a considerable distance to cover, the stunning landscapes and scenic stops along the way will make the trip enjoyable as we head toward the picturesque town of Punakaiki.
Day 9: Punakaiki
Location: Punakaiki
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This charming coastal village is the ultimate beachside destination for adventure and exploration. It's renowned for the Pancake Rocks, where columns of water shoot skyward from rock formations that resemble stacks of hotcakes. Spend the afternoon visiting these geological wonders, exploring lush coastal forests, stunning limestone cliffs and canyons, mysterious caves, pristine rivers, and an absolutely spectacular coastline.
Day 10: Abel Tasman National Park
Location: Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Punakaiki - Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the wild west coast, making stops to view lighthouses and seal colonies. Heading inland, we'll journey through the picturesque Nelson Lakes en route to Abel Tasman, considered by many to be New Zealand's most beautiful National Park. Spend the afternoon either exploring the quaint town or embarking on an adventure to gather fresh green-lipped mussels.
Day 11: Golden Bay
Location: Golden Bay
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 12: Abel Tasman National Park
Location: Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is completely free for you to relax on the beach or, if you're up for some adventure, explore the pristine natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park. Have a go at hiking sections of the trail, or rent a kayak to navigate the coastal track. With a bit of luck, you might encounter native wildlife such as the Tui or Tuatara.
Day 13: Kaikoura
Location: Kaikoura
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Abel Tasman National Park - Marlborough - Kaikoura. As we leave town, we head to the renowned Marlborough Wine Region. Driving through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, we'll make a quick stop in Picton before arriving 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.
Day 14: Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kaikoura - Christchurch. 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 final drive back to Christchurch. Bid farewell to your tour group or persuade them to continue exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Christchurch with you. We will return to our pick up point around 3 pm, where we'll part ways (detail in Trip Notes). Don't be sad - you'll have created memories to last a lifetime!
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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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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Church Of The Good Shepherd
Visit the Church Of The Good Shepherd.
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Transport to Milford Sound (cruise optional)
Transport to Milford Sound is included, with an optional cruise available.
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Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowhole walk
Enjoy a walk to see the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowhole.
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Abel Tasman National Park
Visit Abel Tasman National Park.
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Golden Bay day trip
Take a day trip to Golden Bay.
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.
Accommodation
Enjoy 13 nights in mixed-sex dorm accommodation at well-equipped hostels, providing a comfortable and budget-friendly stay throughout your South Island 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 kind 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.
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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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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers a variety of optional excursions that can be booked and paid for locally, allowing you to shape your own adventure.
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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 might prefer other products like Pure Discoveries or Wild Kiwi's premium tours.
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What is the policy on tipping the tour guide or driver?
Tipping the tour guide or driver is an entirely personal gesture, but it is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveller.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Highlights include exploring Christchurch, relaxing by Lake Tekapo, spending time in Queenstown, discovering Franz Josef Glacier, visiting Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks, enjoying Abel Tasman National Park, wine tasting in Marlborough, and spotting whales and dolphins in Kaikoura.
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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.