Embark on an awe-inspiring 13 day journey – coach / bus tour through New Zealand’s most remarkable destinations, from the stunning geothermal marvels of the North Island to the majestic and breathtaking landscapes of the South Island, New Zealand. Our 13 Day New Zealand Itinerary – independent coach tour have been pre-planned and for ease and peace of mind we have pre-booked all your accommodation.
If you are looking to spend additional time exploring New Zealand, we highly recommend checking out our extensive selection of coach tours. Our tours are designed to provide you with a comprehensive and memorable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unique culture and stunning scenery of New Zealand. With our all-inclusive packages, you can relax and enjoy your vacation, knowing that all your transportation, accommodation, and day tours / activities have been taken care of. Let us help you plan a hassle-free and unforgettable holiday in New Zealand.
On arrival in Auckland, ‘The City of Sails’, seat in coach passengers will be met by our local representative and privately transferred to your hotel.
DAY 2 : AUCKLAND - WAITOMO - ROTORUA
Travel south through the fertile Waikato region to arrive at Waitomo.
Enjoy a guided tour of the famous Glowworm Caves including an underground boat ride followed by lunch. Continue to Rotorua and visit Agrodome Farm Show on arrival followed by a guided tour and Maori Cultural Performance at Te Puia Thermal Reserve. (B,L)
DAY 3 : ROTORUA - NAPIER
This morning is at leisure. You might like to visit Rainbow Springs to complete your Rotorua sightseeing (optional activity not included) before departing for Napier this afternoon. Travel south through the Wairakei
Geothermal area to arrive at Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Continue over rugged mountain ranges and well cultivated farmland to arrive in the ‘Art Deco’ city of Napier. (B)
DAY 4 : NAPIER
This morning is at your leisure to explore Napier, before joining an afternoon wine tour that will visit and include tastings at 3 local wineries. (B)
DAY 5 : NAPIER - WELLINGTON
Travel through the Manawatu Gorge and Takapau Plains to Palmerston North,
famous for its agricultural university. Continue south to arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. (B)
DAY 6 : WELLINGTON
Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of
Wellington and a short guided tour of Te Papa (the ‘Museum
of New Zealand’) before enjoying a free afternoon to explore
New Zealand’s capital city. (B)
DAY 7 : WELLINGTON - CHRISTCHURCH
Journey across Cook Strait, which separates the North and South Islands
of New Zealand and into the Marlborough Sounds with its sparkling clear waters and lush forests, before arriving in Picton. Travel south through Blenheim and Kaikoura to reach the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch. (B)
DAY 8 : CHRISTCHURCH - DUNEDIN
Travel south across the Canterbury Plains to reach Scottish influenced Dunedin, renowned for the local wildlife and Otago University. (B)
DAY 9 : DUNEDIN - QUEENSTOWN
This morning is free for optional activities. Leaving Dunedin, travel through South Otago, through Balclutha and Gore and across the fertile Southland Plains to Lake Te Anau. Continue around the southern arm of Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown. (B)
DAY 10 : QUEENSTOWN
A free day to explore the endless optional attractions available. Queenstown offers bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting, gondola rides and much more. Optional activities not included in the tour price. (B)
DAY 11 : QUEENSTOWN - GLACIER REGION
Depart Queenstown and travel via Lake Wanaka and through the historic Haast Pass, gateway to the World Heritage Westland National Park. Continue up the West Coast past spectacular mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. (B)
DAY 12 : GLACIER REGION - GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH
Travel north to Greymouth and board the world famous TranzAlpine train (coach passengers only). Ascend through lush beech forests past the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass before crossing the spectacular Southern Alps. Travel over Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B)
DAY 13 : DEPARTURE DAY
Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer or the return of your rental car. We trust you enjoyed your New Zealand vacation. (B)
Arrive to United States Of America, US
Inclusions & Highlights
Our Package Touring offers the following:
[icon_check] Daily departures [icon_check] No minimum number of passengers [icon_check] Breakfasts Daily at all hotels [icon_check] All sightseeing entry fees included (as mentioned in each itinerary) [icon_check] A choice of accommodation options [icon_check] All tours can be added to [icon_check] All packages can be taken in reverse (except ‘Stunning New Zealand’)
ACCOMMODATION
Standard Accommodation Options
Standard is equivalent to a good 3-star tourist hotel.These hotels represent excellent value for money and usually have a licensed restaurant and bar on the premises.
Superior Accommodation Options
Superior describes hotels in the 3 1/2 to 4-star category. More often than not, these will be centrally located and offering a wide range of services and facilities.
First Class Accommodation Options
First Class are central city or resort location hotels at the top end of the scale rating 4 to 4 1/2 stars. All hotels at this level have excellent facilities, bars and restaurants etc, full services, and many feature swimming pool, spa baths, and fully equipped gymnasium for the enjoyment of guests.
DATES & PRICES
13 Day Stunning New Zealand Coach Tour prices start from NZD 2,701 per person, twin share, Daily Departures. The price is customized based on final hotel choices, travel dates, and other custom preferences. If you require modifications to the itinerary as well as travel arrangements, please also advise.
Please note this tour cannot be taken in reverse by Seat in Coach passengers.
The Agrodome, located just 10 km north of Rotorua CBD, is one of the most popular farm experiences in New Zealand. The attraction features live sheep shearing, cow milking, lamb feeding, dog demonstrations, as well as a full New Zealand dog trial. With 19 breeds of champion rams, the multi award-winning Sheep Show is a must-see for tourists. There are three exciting shows a day at 9:30 am, 11:00 am, and 2:30 pm, each lasting an hour. This all-weather attraction is open 365 days a year from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and is just 15 minutes north of Rotorua CBD.
Location: 15 minutes north of Rotorua CBD Duration: 1 hour
See first hand why Auckland is regarded as one of the best cities in the world to live in, as you join this half day tour around the central city and picturesque suburbs.
Our journey begins with a short trip over the Harbour Bridge to the North Shore before returning to the central city to visit Queen St and the Auckland Viaduct.
We continue on through the Auckland Domain, the city\’s oldest park, situated on a 62,000 year old volcano to Parnell Village for our morning tea stop. The historic buildings of Parnell have been transformed in to a trendy shopping area featuring many boutiques, antique, craft and specialty shops.
Following this brief stop our tour will then take you along the scenic waterfront route of Tamaki Drive to the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park, in Mission Bay. A memorial to the first Labour Prime Minister of New Zealand and the founder of the welfare state. Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park has panoramic views over Whenua Rangatira, Auckland city and Waitemata Harbour. This park is a popular wedding and tourist venue, with formal gardens and perfect venue for flying a fabulous array of colourful and creative kites. The tour then returns to downtown.
a complimentary pick-up and drop offer service is provided from inner city hotels. Please check with your NZ-Tourism tour consultant for hotel pick-up details for the Auckland City Highlights.
Interislander is a ferry service that operates in New Zealand. It connects the North and South Islands of New Zealand by crossing the Cook Strait. The journey from Wellington to Picton covers a distance of 92 km and takes about three hours. This ferry ride is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand and is considered one of the most scenic cruises around the world.
Interislander has three ships named Arahura, Aratere, and Kaitaki. These ships are designed to accommodate both passengers and their vehicles. They offer a comfortable, safe, and affordable journey across the Cook Strait. Besides, Interislander provides a range of onboard services to make your journey more enjoyable. With up to 11 sailings per day, passengers can choose the most convenient travel time as per their schedule. Your trip on the Interislander ferry will be an unforgettable experience.
Interislander takes pride in providing a unique travel experience, where the journey itself becomes a destination.
Wellington to Picton Timetable
Departure time / Ship / Notes
2:00 am Kaiarahi This does not sail on a Monday
6:15 am Aratere This does not sail on a Monday
8:45 am Kaitaki
1:00 pm Kaiarahi
3:45 pm Aratere
8:30 pm Kaitaki This does not sail on a Saturday
Opened in 1985, the original Underwater World was the vision of Kelly Tarlton – an extraordinary Kiwi adventurer, diver, explorer and inventor, who wanted to share his love of the ocean with others. Today, Kelly’s vision has grown to become a world-class visitor attraction, offering a uniquely New Zealand Pacific and Southern oceans experience.
Antarctic Encounter
The Antarctic Encounter is home to New Zealand’s only sub-Antarctic penguins, offering a rare opportunity to see the magnificent birds up close in their icy domain. A unique snowcat ride brings you within arms length of the 80-strong colony of King and Gentoo penguins to watch their playful antics on the snow and their elegant flight underwater.
Underwater World
Enter Stingray Bay for an awe-inspiring look at the giant stingrays, before delving deep into the Underwater World to see the rich variety of species from New Zealand’s coastal waters. Come face to face with sharks, turtles, giant rays and other incredible deep sea creatures on the moving walkway.
It’s all waiting for you at Kelly Tarlton’s!
Kelly Tarlton’s is open daily from 9:30am to 5:30pm (last entry at 4:30pm), 365 days a year – including public holidays!
The regular Shuttle Service is as follows
• 7 days a week Kelly Tarlton’s operates a FREE shuttle service from downtown Auckland!
• Shuttle departs from 172 Quay Street (opposite the downtown ferry terminal).
• The shuttle runs on the hour, every hour, from 9am until 4pm, with the final pick up from downtown being at 4pm.
Te Papa Museum Guided Tour: This 60-minute tour is the perfect way to get an overview of Te Papa’s highlights, Māori taonga (treasures), and New Zealand history. Your experienced tour guide will reveal innovative cultural treasures of the Māori and Pasifika peoples, the history and science of our vibrant natural environment, and the national art collection. Ideal for visitors with limited time or those wanting an introduction to an extended visit.
Te Papa is the National Museum of New Zealand, known for its bicultural, scholarly, innovative, and entertaining approach.
Collections cover five main areas:
Art, History, Pacific, Māori, and Natural Environment. Exhibitions are interactive and interdisciplinary, and we have a range of dynamic events and educational programs. We also have successful commercial ventures, such as a publishing division, conference operations, and retail stores.
We are open every day of the year, including public holidays. Entry is free for everyone, although there may be charges for some short-term exhibitions, activities & guided tours.
Te Puia Thermal Reserve Rotorua – Hot springs, boiling sulfurous pools, silica terraces, and bubbling mud pools are among the natural wonders.
Enjoy our unique culture, and to experience firsthand the wonders of Mâori arts and crafts in Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Te Puia is home to the internationally renowned Pohutu geyser, the National carving and weaving schools, and the world-famous Whakarewarewa guides.
This geothermal valley is a special place, home to Te Arawa people for generations. The environment alone is of enormous geological significance, with thermal activity ranging from boiling mud to the world-famous 30-metre Pohutu geyser, erupting up to 20 times each day. The valley is home to many species of native plants and animals.
You can take a guided tour of the New Zealand native bush or you can guide yourself around Rotorua. Our guides will point out all the native species and describe the many uses Mâori find for the natural resources around them.
Our Kiwi Conservation Centre is a valuable part of a national breeding programme. Here in Te Puia Thermal Reserve you can see our national bird and symbol in a specially lit house, with expert guides and information at hand.
TranzAlpine Train – Christchurch to Greymouth Train
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island with the Tranzalpine Scenic Train Journey. Renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys, this awe-inspiring experience takes you from coast to coast, unveiling stunning scenery that simply cannot be witnessed from the road.
As you board the Tranzalpine train, get ready to immerse yourself in a visual feast of natural wonders. From towering snow-capped mountains and rugged gorges to pristine rivers and lush forests, every moment of this journey promises to leave you in awe. The panoramic windows of the train offer unobstructed views, allowing you to capture every detail and truly appreciate the grandeur of New Zealand’s South Island.
The TranzAlpine Scenic Rail Journey is not just a means of transportation; it is an expedition into nature’s masterpiece. As you traverse through picturesque landscapes, keep your camera ready to capture moments that will forever be etched in your memory. Marvel at the ever-changing scenery as you pass through charming towns, cross soaring viaducts and venture into tunnels carved through mountains.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast seeking solace in untouched beauty or a traveler yearning for an extraordinary experience, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey has something for everyone. It offers a unique opportunity to witness New Zealand’s diverse landscapes up close and personal.
So why settle for ordinary when you can embark on an extraordinary adventure? Hop aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey and let it transport you into a world where beauty knows no bounds. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
TranzAlpine Timetable
The TranzAlpine operates daily excluding Christmas Day.
One of New Zealand’s Most Breathtaking Natural Wonders
Over 30 million years ago, limestone was created at the bottom of the ocean, which gave birth to the legend of Waitomo. Today, these limestone formations stand as one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the country.
Guided Tour Highlights
During your guided tour, you will be taken through over 250 meters of stunning underground scenery, starting with the impressive Cathedral. Your tour will begin at the upper entrance of the cave and continue along a low, narrow passage to the Tomo, a deep limestone shaft. You will also get to see other magnificent cave formations, including the Banquet Chamber, the Pipe Organ, and the Catacombs.
The highlight of your tour will be an unparalleled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto. As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you will be dazzled by the walls and roof sparkling with the lights of glowworm larvae. You will glide silently through the starry wonderland of the glowworm grotto, with your way lit by a myriad of tiny glowworm lights glittering and reflecting off the water.
Your experienced tour guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations and the history of the area. The cave is easily accessible to those with reasonable mobility, with good handrails and paths.
Tours are available every half hour from 9 am to 5 pm daily. We recommend wearing walking shoes/footwear and warm clothing. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, aided by good handrails and paths. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Tours depart every 1/2 hour from 9am to 5pm daily
Summer Hours: 9.00am – 5.30pm (End of October to Easter Monday)
Winter Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm
The perfect introduction to Wellington City! Visit all the must-see sights and attractions, as well as venturing out for a leisurely cruise around our rugged Southern coastline. Make the most of your time in Wellington on this popular tour – A short yet thorough overview.
Highlights include city, harbour and hill views from some of the city’s most spectacular vantage points, as well as visiting many of Wellington’s most famous sights, landmarks, and icons. These include:
The famous Beehive and Parliament Buildings
Old Saint Paul’s Cathedral, the finest example of Revival Gothic architecture in the Southern Hemisphere,
Exquisite Lady Norwood Rose Gardens,
The largest wooden building in the Southern Hemisphere,
Various buildings exemplifying classic early Wellington architecture.
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Wellington City, hills and harbour from the summit of Mount Victoria, and drive around the rugged and pure scenic bays of Wellington Harbour.
A ride on the historic cable car is an optional extra but well worthwhile.
Tour Departs – DAILY 10am and 2pm from central city accommodation on request and the Wellington i-SITE Centre
Duration – 2.5 Hours
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ACTIVITY LOCATIONS
Also included in this tour: Napier half day wine tour
We offer you the flexibility to either choose from our existing itineraries or create your own itinerary based on your preferences, requirements, and travel dates. To begin, just get in touch with us and receive your personalized itinerary within 48 hours.
Looking for a personalized New Zealand tour for a group of 10 or more people? Contact us for a competitive price quote. We specialize in creating unique itineraries that inspire groups.
