Nz poor knights islands diving photo family see and do adventurous
Nz poor knights islands diving photo family see and do adventurous
Experience the true New Zealand

7 weeks from Canterbury to Far North

Do you seek once in a lifetime experiences? This trip is perfect for an adventurous traveller who would like an active holiday in New Zealand. It's your chance to get better acquainted with the Kiwi lifestyle. With a galore of outdoor activities in nature, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the country. Are you ready for a New Zealand adventure?

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

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Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
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
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Conquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hike
Conquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hike
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
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 up close to native Tui birds on Kapiti Island
Get up close to native Tui birds on Kapiti Island
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Visit the impressive gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers
Visit the impressive gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers
Soak up the local lifestyle at Mount Maunganui
Soak up the local lifestyle at Mount Maunganui
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Visit the Matakana Village Farmers Market
Visit the Matakana Village Farmers Market
Join the locals and slip into a laid-back lifestyle in the Far North
Join the locals and slip into a laid-back lifestyle in the Far North
Discover a variety of walking tracks in the Mahurangi Regional Park
Discover a variety of walking tracks in the Mahurangi Regional Park

Canterbury

2 nights

The impressive Southern Alps mountain range makes for a mighty backdrop. Spend a few days on a farm stay and experience the day-to-day rural life of a farmer and their animals.

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.

Catlins

2 nights

Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins at Curio Bay. Spot yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sun-bathing sea lions. Heading inland, there are many waterfalls to explore, scattered around the coastal rainforest.

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.

Central Otago

2 nights

Featuring a vast brown landscape, snow-capped mountains, crystal blue rivers, deep gorges and tussock-clad hills. Go vineyard hopping or cycle the 152-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail.

Wanaka

3 nights

An ultimate outdoor base to explore the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. The crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are ideal for fly fishing, boat cruises, jet boating, kayaking and swimming.

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.

Punakaiki

2 nights

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.

Kaikoura

3 nights

Kaikoura lies between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views. The nutrient-rich water attracts whales, seals, albatross and dolphins.

Abel Tasman

4 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.

Kapiti Island

1 night

A predator-free paradise, a place where endangered species can once again thrive. This is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most accessible nature reserves.

Central Plateau & Tongariro

3 nights

Home to natural hot springs, mineral lakes and alpine meadows. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is widely regarded as one of the best one-day hikes in the world.

Hawkes Bay & Napier

2 nights

Renowned for sunshine, fruitful vineyards and award-winning wineries. Go back in time to the 1930s, with a visit to the Art Deco-styled, Napier.

Bay of Plenty

4 nights

An abundance of marine life, perfect for snorkelling, diving and swimming with dolphins. Maori culture and history are also deeply embedded in the region.

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.

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.

Far North

4 nights

Enrich yourself in Maori culture, explore white sand beaches and ancient forests. Visit Cape Reinga for sweeping views of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean colliding.

Auckland North

2 nights

Known for its golden beaches and sand dunes, regional parks, bush walks and a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.

Price guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 49 nights in comfortable cottages, bed & breakfasts, lodges
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a compact SUV for 50 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Accommodation in the middle of nature | New Zealand nature
Our local hosts provide warm Kiwi hospitality
Included accomodations
  • 49 nights in superior cottages, bed & breakfasts, lodges
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a compact SUV for 50 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
A boutique lodge surrounded by lime trees
Boutique, comfortable accommodation for friends
An artistically decorated white plate of food
Included accomodations
  • 49 nights staying at exclusive cottages, bed & breakfasts, lodges
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a compact SUV for 50 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
NZ solo stays: luxury bathroom
NZ luxury stays: High-end boutique accommodation in Taupo
A light, bright bedroom with white linen and large windows
Add flight
Enjoy Cathay Pacific's excellent Business class meals
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
Select car
Add activities
Price guide per person
Price per adult
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Price for all travellers
Adults 18+
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Youth 12-17 yrs
0
Children 2-11 yrs
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Infants 0-1 yr
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Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
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During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.

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Step 1
Your journey
Detailed guide for
7 weeks from Canterbury to Far North
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