At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through New Zealand as you explore both islands, in a once in a lifetime kind of experience.
Tick New Zealand off your bucket list with this complete New Zealand itinerary, where you will check out the best each island has to offer. Start your trip in Queenstown, a bustling city set against the dramatic Southern Alps - the perfect starting point for your trip - as you make your way to explore some of New Zealand's most iconic regions, such as Fox, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman, Rotorua, Auckland, Bay of Islands, and Matakana. Plus, take part in some of the region's most exciting activities and spend the night in unique accommodations.
Have a look at what your dream New Zealand trip with your family could look like:
Relaxed travel pace with two to three nights at selected accommodation
Sixteen nights in eight locations staying in B&Bs, hotels, and cottages/cabins
Five activities included
Intermediate SUV hire included
If you would like to book your New Zealand holiday for you and your family, contact one of our travel specialists, obligation-free, to find out how we can help you experience an authentic and unforgettable experience down under. Below, you can discover our suggested locations.
Route and Impressions
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boatDoubtful Sound cruise on day fiveConquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hikeHeli hike on Fox glacier on day sevenTravel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast RouteDiscover the crystal waters of Abel TasmanKayak the crystal clear waters of Abel Tasman + spot seals on day tenVisit geothermal wonders with a local guideExplore the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua with a local Maori guide on day thirteenFor 360 degree views of Auckland City, walk to the summit of Mount EdenExperience the magic of the Bay of IslandsSailing through Bay of Islands on day sixteenVisit the Matakana Village Farmers Market
Queenstown
3 nights
New Zealand's adventure capital is centred around the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between dramatic mountain ranges.
Queenstown
Activity
A visit to New Zealand isn't complete without a cruise along the fjords - one of nature's most incredible sights, Doubtful Sound, sometimes referred to as 'The Sound of Silence', is the deepest and second-longest fjord in South Island. More importantly, because it is much quieter than other fjords, so you'll enjoy the peace and serenity of the area with fewer crowds.
Franz Josef & Fox
2 nights
Originating from the Southern Alps and descending to sea level, both glaciers flow around ten times faster than most valley glaciers. Get a birds-eye view on a scenic helicopter flight.
Franz Josef & Fox
Activity
This activity lets you experience an exhilarating helicopter ride as you view jaw-dropping scenery, followed by a hike through the most spectacular glacier features. Land atop the glacier and explore ice caves and pinnacles in this bucket list activity.
Punakaiki
1 night
Punakaiki lies at the edge of the Paparoa National Park, the home of the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline and gaze at the unique limestone formations.
Abel Tasman
2 nights
Explore the coastline, golden beaches and lush native forest by foot. Or kayak past secluded bays and islands, and spot marine life such as seals, penguins and dolphins.
Abel Tasman
Activity
Gain another perspective of the park in this kayaking activity, suitable for all ages; discover secluded bays and islands, visit the best beaches Abel Tasman has to offer, and have close encounters with native seals who call this region their home.
Rotorua
2 nights
Situated on one of the world’s most active volcano regions, Rotorua is brimming with remarkable Maori culture, world-class activities and astonishing scenery.
Rotorua
Activity
Rotorua is a volcanic wonderland with extraordinary landscapes and incredible geothermal attractions - each with its unique features, rare flora and fauna, all rich in Maori history and folklore. In this activity, you will get up close to spectacular geysers and colourful crater lakes as your local guide tells you all about the history of the region.
Auckland City
1 night
The ‘City of Sails’ is surrounded by diverse landscapes. From the rugged coastline at Piha and Bethells Beach to the calm, sheltered and golden sand at Mission Bay.
Bay of Islands
2 nights
A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.
Bay of Islands
Activity
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands and its spectacular views by boat and visit the hidden gems only locals know about while learning all about the Maori culture that is so deeply embedded in this region.
Matakana
2 nights
Featuring artisanal food, award-winning wine, over 30 boutique vineyards, olive groves, restaurants that primarily use fresh local produce and a famous farmer’s market.
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
