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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation
Nz monarch wildlife cruises 1 family easy going
Nz monarch wildlife cruises 1 family easy going
The ultimate family holiday in New Zealand

From Akaroa to the Bay of Islands

Are you an active family? This trip is for you. A perfect blend of the North and South Island with a mix of nature, culture, food & wine and local gems. Featuring some of the country's most astonishing places, it's an ideal route to get better acquainted with the outdoor Kiwi lifestyle.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Below, you can discover our suggested locations. Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.

Route and Impressions

new-zealand
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
For a real “off the grid” experience, visit the small towns of Haast and Bruce Bay
For a real “off the grid” experience, visit the small towns of Haast and Bruce Bay
Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline of Hokitika
Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline of Hokitika
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands

Akaroa

3 nights

Enjoy the scenic drive to Akaroa on the Bank’s Peninsula. A historic French village, home to colonial architecture, galleries and craft stores. Hector's dolphin can be spotted swimming here.

Tekapo

3 nights

Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.

Otago Peninsula

3 nights

The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.

Fiordland National Park

3 nights

A nature lover’s paradise named on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ancient rainforests, snow-capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls and the remarkable Milford and Doubtful Sound fiords.

Haast & Bruce Bay

3 nights

Go hiking and hunting, or simply relax on the beaches, with almost no one around. Haast is set in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area, surrounded by national parks and rainforests.

Hokitika

2 nights

Famous for its west coast whitebait, be sure to indulge in some taste testing. Hike the Hokitika Gorge Walk, through the dense forest and over a swing bridge, for the best views of the blue-green Hokitika River.

Abel Tasman

3 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.

Wellington City

2 nights

A vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. Dive into the coffee culture, visit Te Papa Museum and soak up the views from Mount Victoria.

Taupo

2 nights

A thermal wonderland of active volcanoes, trout-filled rivers, alpine tussock and ancient forests. As you make your way around the lake, you will discover an array of different landscapes.

Coromandel

3 nights

Where pristine beaches meet misty forests. Hike the Pinnacles, explore Cathedral Cove or spend your days on the glistening water - kayaking, sailing, snorkelling and fishing.

Bay of Islands

3 nights

A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.

Price From

£7,200 Per person
Whats included?
  • 30 nights staying at comfortable small-scale accommodations
  • Relaxed travel pace with 2-3 nights at each location
  • Stay at 13 different locations
  • Wildlife spotting
  • Whale watching
  • A cycle tour
  • Ferry crossing
  • Fully insured medium SUV
  • Premium economy flights
  • Average driving distance between each location is 3-4.5 hours
  • Your holiday is CO2 compensated
  • Types of accommodations include bed & breakfasts, cottages and lodges
  • We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests
  • Best travel time is between October to November or March to April

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation