30 Day New Zealand Guided Tour

Book private tours of NZ with New Zealand Guided Tours. We offer the best flexible New Zealand escorted tours with no date or itinerary restrictions. Experience the best of New Zealand on this top rated private tour.

Your private guide will meet you at Auckland Airport and take you on an insider’s tour of New Zealand, visiting iconic landmarks and local secrets alike. We cater for, couples, families and larger groups on our private tours of NZ. Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family, a group of friends, or an extended family group, our private tours of NZ are the perfect choice.

Read on for more details on the 30 Day New Zealand Guided Tour Itinerary.

30 Day New Zealand Guided Tour Itinerary | Private Tours NZ

Day 1 Auckland

Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. Your guide will greet you at Auckland Airport and Private NZ Tour will commence.

Explore Auckland with your guide.

Auckland Museum offers a great introduction to New Zealand. With internationally significant Māori and Pacific collections to explore, the Auckland Museum is a must-see place to experience our rich culture.

If you would like to get straight into nature; skipper an America’s Cup yacht or experience whale watching. Or visit top attractions such as the Sky Tower and Mt Eden’s volcanic crater.

In the evening the fairy lights of Federal Street will lure you into some of the finest restaurants in Auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Bay of Islands + Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3.5 hours 

Discover the stunning northern reaches of New Zealand today with your guide. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region made up of 144 islands known for its stunning beauty & history.

New Zealand’s newest Marine mammal sanctuary Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands) boasts an abundance of marine life, which includes whales, dolphins, penguins, fur seals and a large variety of sea birds. For those that love nature, beaches and water activities, it’s paradise.

The bustling seaside town of Paihia has an extensive choice of activities, accommodation and delicious dining options. Paihia is the perfect base for discovering the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands.

In the afternoon, discover the heart of Aotearoa at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of the nation. Walk through New Zealand’s most important historic site with full access to heritage buildings, museums, and iconic landmarks.

Stand before the world’s largest ceremonial waka, explore the interactive Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi and the moving Te Rau Aroha – Museum of the Price of Citizenship, then deepen your understanding on a 50-minute guided tour. Complete your visit with a powerful Māori cultural performance, bringing tradition, history, and storytelling to life.

A meaningful and unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Stay 3 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Bay of Islands Discover the Bay Cruise + Russell

Board your premium cruise ‘Discover the Bay’ and see for yourself the best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Journey to the Hole in the Rock and if weather permits, sail through it. See marine wildlife including Dolphins and stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to have a swim, go for a walk, have a bite to eat and relax.

In the afternoon, you might like your guide to take you to Russell. Russell is a significant place in New Zealand’s history, being New Zealand’s first European settlement and sea port. Russell is also home to the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel and pub.

Day 4 Cape Reinga + Waipoua Forest

Visit the top of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and venture to Cape Reinga. This full day trip takes you to one of the most northern points of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide.

On the way to Cape Reinga you could visit Gumdiggers park where ancient Kauri forest was buried thousands of years ago.

You could visit the world famous Mangonui Fish Shop for lunch and grab the freshest fish and chips as the sea washes gently beneath your feet.

If time permits visit Waipoua Forest. As the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland, Waipoua is an ancient green world of towering trees and rare birds. This forest is the home of Tāne Mahuta, the country’s largest kauri tree, which is approximately 2,000 years old and still growing.

Day 5 Northland + Castaways Resort

Travel time Paihia to Auckland – 3.5 hours

Today you might like to head down to the beachfront in Paihia to hire kayaks, paddle boards or bikes.

Continue touring Northland with your guide as you make your way south to Castaways Resort or another location of your choice.

Stay 1 night at Castaways Resort or in Auckland.

Day 6 Coromandel Peninsula + Hot Water Beach

Travel time Auckland to Coromandel – 3 hours

Renowned worldwide as a spectacular holiday destination, with warm white-sand beaches, misty rainforest and wilderness aplenty, the Coromandel is the ideal place to unwind.

Whitianga is the main settlement of Mercury Bay, an attractive township with a deep-water harbour.

Home to the world renowned Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, Mercury Bay is known for its variety of marine experiences both on and under the water. From kayaking and fishing in and around the Mercury Islands to scenic boat trips in the Te Whanganui-O-Hei Marine Reserve, Whitianga and Mercury Bay have it all. Experience the magic and relax in the unspoiled playground of Mercury Bay – a recreational haven just waiting for you.

If the tide is right, visit Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pools and lap up the scenery.

Stay 2 nights in Whitianga, Coromandel.

Day 7 Cathedral Cove Glass Bottom Boat Tour + Things to do Coromandel

Today, join the Glass Bottom Boat for a unique boat cruise. Depart from Whitianga Wharf to explore the breathtaking volcanic coastline, including the famous Cathedral Cove. See the stunning Champagne Bay, plus a range of blow holes and sea caves, including Orua’s Sea Cave, the second largest sea cave in New Zealand! See what lies above and below the surface in the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and be amazed by all the marine life to be seen. You can choose your own level of fun. Either sit back and enjoy the amazing marine life through the glass boat, or take the plunge and snorkel amongst the fish.

For an afternoon of relaxation The Lost Spring in Whitianga offers the perfect retreat. Surrounded by tropical plants and soothing waterfalls, the thermal waters flow from a spring deep within the earth’s surface. With water temperatures ranging from 32°C to 41°C and pools no deeper than chest height, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

Day 8 Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Rotorua + Te Pā Tū – Evening Cultural Experience & Hangi Dinner

Travel time Coromandel to Matamata – 2.5 hours 

Experience the magic of Middle-earth as you tour the Hobbiton Movie Set, where the charming village from The Lord of the Rings has been brought to life. You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon Inn. You will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit Southfarthing beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.

Travel time Matamata to Rotorua – 1 hour 

Enjoy the scenic drive through rolling farmland to Rotorua, the geothermal capital of New Zealand. Tour the exciting geothermal attractions with your guide, visiting sulphur springs, mud pools, geysers, and sinter terraces.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori culture with the Te Pā Tū Evening Cultural Experience & Hāngi Dinner. Enjoy traditional storytelling, song, and dance before sharing a delicious seasonal hāngi feast cooked in an earth oven. This unforgettable evening celebrates Māori heritage, connection, and hospitality in a truly authentic setting.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 9 Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa + Redwoods Treewalk + Glowworm Kayak Tour

In the morning, step into Wai Ariki, a place where Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and warm hospitality converge. Nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values. Experience a world of uniqueness that transcends borders and touches hearts. Wai Ariki awaits to embrace you with its magic.

Redwoods Treewalk is a 600-metre long, eco-tourism walk in the heart of Rotorua’s Redwood Forest. Consisting of a series of 23 suspension bridges, traversing 22 majestic Redwood trees that are more than 117 years old. The height of the walkway ranges between 6 m and 20 m, allowing the elevated view of the forest below. Enjoy at your own and appreciate the peacefulness and spirit of this special forest.

This evening, explore Rotorua Lakes on a truly unique and magical kayaking experience. This amazing evening adventure takes you along the lake shorelines in a guided scenic kayak tour as you discover small caverns home to a galaxy of glow-worms. One of New Zealand’s premium glow worm experiences, this tour is designed to create a magical and special trip for every customer. Groups are limited in numbers to each of our personal and expert guides ensuring your adventure is the very best it can be.

Day 10 Taupo + Huka Falls + Taupo Attractions

Travel time Rotorua to Taupo – 1 hour 

Taupo is rich in natural beauty with attractions such as the Huka Falls. The Huka Falls is New Zealand’s most visited attraction, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second. Visit this stunning natural attraction with your guide.

Keeping with the water theme, Taupo is a great lake for trout fishing and scenic boat cruises.

The forests surrounding the lake offer hiking and mountain biking to suit all levels of experience. Pedal along the forested shores of Lake Taupo and admire the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park on the Great Lake Trail.

There is also fantastic golf opportunities at two of New Zealand’s premier courses; Wairakei Golf Club and Kinloch Golf Club.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 11 Tongariro National Park + Wellington

Travel time Taupo to Wellington – 5.5 hours 

Enjoy the scenic drive from Taupo to Wellington. Along the way, you will come across Tongariro National Park, which boasts an impressive collection of volcanoes. For Lord of the Rings fans your guide can take you to view Gollum’s Pool and show you Mordor!

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, has so much to offer. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour, surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city rich in culture waiting to be explored. From shopping and picturesque walks to concerts, live theatre, exhibitions, festivals, Te Papa Tongarewa: the Museum of New Zealand, and more – Wellington has something for everyone.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 12 Wellington City + Things to do in Wellington

Enjoy Wellington City for the day. 

Any visitor to Wellington should have the Museum of New Zealand Te Papā Tongarewa at the top of their to-do list and general entry is free. 

Enjoy a ride on Wellington’s bright red cable car. From the summit you will be able to visit other attractions such as the Botanic Gardens and Fragrifert – a traditional Victorian perfumery.

Add a Wētā Workshop Tour. The Workshop is best known for its Academy Award®-winning work on the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

You may like to discover Zealandia. Hidden in a suburban valley, this eco-sanctuary is home to over 40 rare species of native wildlife including over 150 kiwi roaming free. Explore the outdoors at your own pace or be led by a guide. 

Wellington is known as the craft beer capital of New Zealand. With many breweries spread across central Wellington, finding a vibrant spot to enjoy a beer is easy.

Day 13 Cook Strait Ferry (Private Cabin) + Kaikoura

Sailing time Wellington to Picton – 3.5 hours 

Begin your day with a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton in the South Island. Unwind in your private cabin and arrive refreshed, ready for the next leg of your journey.

Travel time Picton to Kaikoura – 2.5 hours 

Upon reaching the South Island, your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the Marlborough wine region. You have the option to stop at a winery (or two!) along the way for samples of the award-winning wines.

Kaikoura’s special talent is marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips can be taken by sea or air and the local seal colony is always entertaining.

Spend the evening in Kaikoura, a stunning coastal town with a backdrop of majestic mountains. Be sure to sample the superb local seafood at dinner!

Stay 2 nights in Kaikoura.

Day 14 Kaikoura + Kaikoura Whale Watch Boat Tour

Take a scenic cruise to view the majestic Sperm Whales off the Kaikoura Coast. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s only marine-based whale watching company, offering visitors enchanting up-close encounters with Sperm Whales at all times of the year. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.

Enjoy one of the many walks including the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. This 11.7-kilometre loop-walk crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, giving you uninterrupted views of the Seaward Kaikoura Range and the stunning coastline.

Visiting the Kaikoura seal colony offers one of the best wildlife experiences in the country. Hundreds of native fur seals call Kaikoura home, and here is the best locations for spotting them.

Kaikoura is a mecca for seafood lovers, with lots of fresh delicacies to try. Indulge in one of the delicious local specialties such as crayfish and blue cod! Visit the famous Nin’s Bin seafood caravan for freshly caught crayfish or check out Kaikoura Seafood BBQ kiosk for a warm chowder.

Day 15 Christchurch

Travel time Kaikoura to Christchurch – 2.5 hours 

The impressive scenery of the coastal ranges accompanies your journey from Kaikoura to Christchurch today. From Cheviot you can detour to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations. Waipara is known for its vineyards and olive groves – an excellent place to pause for lunch.

Explore Christchurch with your guide, options include:

• Christchurch Tramway
• Christchurch Gondola
• Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• The International Antarctic Centre
• Venturing to Sumner Beach
• Riverside Market

In the evening option to add dinner aboard the Christchurch Tram. The Tramway Restaurant offers curated seasonal dining combined with evening sightseeing in central Christchurch for a truly unique experience!

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Day 16 Lake Tekapo + Star Gazing at Mt John Observatory

Travel time Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – 3.5 hours 

Your scenic journey through the Mackenzie Basin begins today. As the Southern Alps loom before you, there will be photo opportunities around every corner.

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Lake Tekapo has many things to do and explore. Visit the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photographed places in the country. One of the most popular attractions in town is Tekapo Springs with hot pools, spas, water slides, steam rooms and saunas.

In the evening prepare for an awe-inspiring evening on a magical star gazing tour. Your expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing the science and the stories of our Southern skies. Stargaze using the naked eye guided by lasers. Then proceed to explore deeper through up to 16″ optical telescopes, including in the private observatory dome. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies. Every night sky beholds something different.

Stay 2 nights at Lake Tekapo.

Day 17 Mount Cook + Glacier Explorers Boat Tour + Aoraki/Mt Cook Panorama Helicopter Flight

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook – 1 hour 15 minutes (each way)

Mount Cook Village is nestled at the base of the Southern Alps. At 3,724 metres, New Zealand’s highest mountain (Aoraki / Mount Cook) is dazzling. There are 27 other mountains in this alpine backbone which peak at over 3,050 metres, all making up the famous Southern Alps.

Experience the only tour of its kind in New Zealand and one of the only accessible glacial lakes containing icebergs in the world. An amazing encounter with New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Explore and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape as you journey across the terminal lake with experienced guides. Icebergs of every shape and size periodically tear away from the face of the glacier into the rapidly growing lake.

This afternoon, enjoy a taster of the scenery Aoraki/Mt Cook is so famous for, with a short adventure into the remote and untamed Southern Alps. The journey begins by soaring over carved icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake and high over the Liebig range and the Murchison Glacier. Soak up views of this incredible alpine environment. We land at a high alpine location – take a breath of crisp alpine air and enjoy rugged mountain views out over Aoraki/ Mt Cook National Park.

Day 18 Moeraki Boulders + Dunedin

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Dunedin – 4.5 hours 

Today your scenic drive will follow a series of braided turquoise rivers as you leave the mountains behind. Your guide will stop along the way at the Moeraki Boulders, where you will find a jumble of large, unusually spherical boulders lying along the windswept Otago coast.

Dunedin offers a diverse range of experiences including the Emerson’s Craft Brewery and Speight’s Brewery, Larnach Castle, Olveston House and of course the stunning Otago Peninsula.

After a day of sightseeing, one of the best things to do in Dunedin is to get cosy in one of the city’s many pubs and enjoy a local beer. To go one step further, indulge in a tour and tasting at Emerson’s craft brewery or the historic Speights Brewery.

Stay 2 nights in Dunedin.

Day 19 Dunedin + Larnach Castle + Otago Peninsula

Today, venture to Larnach Castle which is situated on the spectacular Otago Peninsula. This castle was built by William Larnach in 1871 offering scandalous and tragic stories, incredible tower views and a exquisite Victorian interiors complete this magical castle. The gardens at Larnach Castle have been rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance.

Dunedin is home to rare wildlife. On the Otago Peninsula, you can spot little blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions. You can also visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. Elm Wildlife Tours visits the far reaches of the peninsula for close encounters with the wild inhabitants. To get a different perspective, join a Monarch Wildlife Cruise for a unique view via sea.

Explore Dunedin’s stunning beaches. St Clair is a popular surf beach, but other beaches have good breaks too – including Aramoana and Karitane. If you just want to swim, Brighton Beach is a beautiful choice, just 20 minutes drive from Dunedin. Tunnel Beach features a spectacular sandstone sea arch, which is best visited at low tide.

Day 20 Catlins Coast + Invercargill

Travel time Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins – 4 hours 

Along the way to Invercargill, discover the Catlins Coast. Some of the top scenic highlights include Nugget Point Lighthouse, Roaring Bay (a yellow-eyed penguin habitat), Cannibal Bay seal colony, Tautuku Beach nature walk, Lake Wilkie, McLean Falls, Cathedral Caves, Estuary Boardwalk, Curio Bay (home to a penguin colony and a petrified forest at the shoreline), and Slope Point.

Mclean Falls is the most popular waterfall in the Catlins. This spectacular waterfall is truly magnificent in both size and beauty. The waterfall has a viewing platform right in front of the falls which is perfect for taking photos and enjoying the view. The Purakaunui Falls is also worth a visit, which cascades 20 metres in three tiers.

In the evening, relax in Invercargill or visit the beautifully landscaped town gardens.

Stay 1 night in Invercargill.

Day 21 Te Anau + Woodstone Farm & Fiordland Jet Combo

Travel time Invercargill to Te Anau – 2 hours

Venture into the heart of New Zealand today on the drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Step into rural Southland for a relaxed, hands-on farm experience.
Meet friendly, hand-reared animals, snap photos, and feed them a handful
of nuts. Hosted by a local farmer, enjoy an engaging chat about life on
the land, New Zealand farming history, modern practices, animal
welfare, and sustainability—honest insights with plenty of laughs. Watch
skilled sheep shearing and dog muster demonstrations, then explore the
scenic grounds, complete with a vineyard, lavender plots, and seasonal
flowers.

Stay 1 night in Te Anau.

Day 22 Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

This overnight cruise through the heart of Fiordland provides astonishing views and the ultimate Milford Sound experience!

The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the finest alpine drives in the world.

You’ll start by departing from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon before cruising through Milford Sound accompanied by your specialist nature guide. They’ll explain the history and geology of the area and be on hand to answer your questions.

This cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphins and penguins too.

The Milford Mariner then anchors in a sheltered cove. From here you can join the guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft (small boat) or kayaks.

As evening falls, you’ll enjoy a delicious carvery buffet in the dining saloon – a feast prepared freshly by our on-board chef.

The next day you’ll be able to dig into a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) and exploring more of the fiord.

Day 23 Queenstown

Travel time Te Anau to Queenstown – 2.5 hours

Let Queenstown awaken your inner-explorer. Whether you’re interested in exploring trails, indulging in food and wine, teeing off stunning fairways or seeking adrenaline thrills – there are adventures to be found here of all tastes and tempos.

World-renowned for its adventure, Queenstown is home to a huge choice of adrenaline activities including jet boating, bungy jumping, white water rafting, skydiving and even indoor thrills – all guaranteed to get your blood pumping!

You can even combine a round of golf at one of Queenstown’s gorgeous clubs one morning and come afternoon tour some of New Zealand’s wineries and cellar doors in Gibbston and further afield to discover why Central Otago Pinot Noir is famous on the world stage.

If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace there’s plenty of recreational activities including boat cruises, scenic flights, hiking and biking trails, the Skyline Gondola, the Kiwi Birdlife Park, or spa and wellness options to help you truly feel worlds away.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 24 Shotover Jet + Glenorchy

Start your day with a bang as you ride the thrilling Shotover Jet through the spectacular canyons of the turquoise Shotover River! It’s a thrilling ride – skimming past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet ‘Big Red,’ you’ll twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight – hold tight for the world-famous full 360º spins!

This afternoon, visit Glenorchy with your guide. Glenorchy is a welcoming and vibrant town offering a range of cafes, restaurants, shopping, hiking, fishing, and much more. Glenorchy’s surrounding landscape has become a prime location for film scouts, and was chosen to depict many scenes in the award-winning Lord of the Rings movies.

Day 25 TSS Earnslaw Cruise, Gourmet Lunch & Farm Tour + Arrowtown

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. Your experience starts with a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once there, you can sit back on the lakeside terrace of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and savour the delicious aromas as our chef has the best of local produce, sizzling away on the grill. After lunch, you can join an entertaining farm demonstration or explore the beautiful lakeside gardens.

Visit Arrowtown with your guide in the afternoon, and explore the quaint historic mining settlement. You’ll be enchanted by historic Arrowtown, a New Zealand treasure located 20 minutes from Queenstown. Arrowtown is charming and quirky – a delightful gold rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks that surround the sparkling Arrow River. The heart of its history is Buckingham Street, a procession of heritage buildings that stretches into a tree-lined avenue of tiny miner’s cottages. The buildings in this lovely precinct house shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants – many classy and not one from an international chain.

Day 26 Wanaka

Travel time Queenstown to Wanaka – 1.5 hours

Wanaka has a reputation for great food and wine, with a wide variety of lakefront bars, cafés and restaurants serving exceptional local cuisine.

Explore Wanaka with your guide – you may want to visit the National Toy and Transport Museum or the Wanaka Lavender Farm, where you can experience 20 acres of beautiful lavender fields, farm animals & display gardens.

Stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries and stylish shops. Visit ‘That Wanaka Tree’ for the perfect photo, or enjoy one of the many famous walking tracks such as Mt Iron.

Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.

Day 27 Wanaka + Things to do in Wanaka

The crystal-clear water of the lakes and rivers are ideal for kayaking, fishing, lake cruises, and jet-boating, or to get an aerial perspective of the region and take a scenic helicopter flight.

Test out your fishing skills at “Hook”, Wanaka’s very unique interactive Lake to Plate dining experience. Catch a Chinook salmon from the scenic spring-fed fishing lakes and then relax as the team prepares it for you. No experience is necessary and fishing equipment can be hired on the day.

Day 28 Franz Josef Glacier + Lake Mapourika Kayak and Walk Tour

Travel time Wanaka to Franz Josef – 4.5 hours 

After the Milford Highway, the Haast Pass Highway is one of the most scenic alpine routes in New Zealand. Explore the pass with your guide, stopping to view cascading waterfalls, broad alpine meadows, craggy snowcapped mountains, and the turquoise depths of the Blue Pools.

Franz Josef’s cloak of ice once flowed from the mountains right to the sea. Following millennia of gradual retreat, the glacier is now 19 km inland and accessible only by helicopter. A glacier experience is a crowning moment for thousands of annual visitors with helicopter flights which land atop Franz Josef Glacier and glacier heli-hikes being the two best ways to view the glacier.

Explore the Jurassic rainforest and kiwi sanctuary on our private rainforest trail! Exclusively accessed by kayak and boat you’ll experience the pure remote wilderness of Lake Mapourika. Hot drinks provided, with an unbeatable panorama of the glaciers across the lake.

Stay 1 night in Franz Josef.

Day 29 Hokitika

Travel time Franz Josef to Hokitika – 2 hours 

Discover the West Coast’s beauty in Hokitika, famous for its wild beach and arts and crafts scene. Hokitika is known as the ‘Cool Little Town’. There are some lovely old buildings on the town’s historic walk. You’ll also notice galleries specialising in pounamu jewellery and artworks. 

While in Hokitika, you may wish to make the scenic drive to Hokitika Gorge, where an impressive turquoise river flows through a narrow canyon.

You could also visit the National Kiwi Centre, where you will be able to see a rare kiwi; view New Zealand’s living dinosaur, the Tuatara; and participate in feeding the giant eels. 

You will find a great attraction in the West Coast Treetop Walk. Here, you’ll enjoy the views of the birds with the canopy walk that’s been carefully constructed across the ancient Kamahi and Rimu trees. The walkway is 450 metres in total and reaches heights of 20 metres giving you fantastic panoramic views of all around.

Stay 1 night in Hokitika.

Day 30 TranzAlpine Scenic Plus – New Zealand Train + Christchurch

Travel time Hokitika to Greymouth – 30 minutes

Train travel time Greymouth to Christchurch – 4.5 hours

Leave the rugged West Coast behind today as you board the TranzAlpine Train for a fantastic journey through Arthurs Pass. Travel past the soaring peaks and braided rivers of the Southern Alps, through the gorges of the Waimakariri River, and past the rolling Canterbury Plains. Scenic Plus transforms your TranzAlpine journey into a full sensory experience. As you take in the landscapes, enjoy a menu inspired by the very regions you travel through. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are prepared in the onboard kitchen and served at your seat, course by course, with matching New Zealand wines and beverages.

Your guide will be waiting for you at Christchurch Railway Station ready to take you to your Christchurch City accommodation.

Choose from your guide’s range of restaurant recommendations as you celebrate your final night in paradise.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Day 31 Depart Christchurch

Your guide will deliver you to Christchurch Airport for your departing flight.

Planning Private Tours of NZ

We offer a range of private tours of NZ. From 7 days to 30 days, enjoy a brief glimpse of New Zealand or an immersive month-long tour.

In addition, each tour is fully customisable. In other words, if you wish to travel for a different length of time, we can tailor your tour package to suit. Furthermore, we can design your tour around any special interests or requirements you may have.

Looking for shorter private tours of NZ? Take a look at our 21-day guided tour. Or browse our full range of New Zealand guided tours.

Contact us today to begin planning your private tours of NZ.

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