Small Group Tour - Kiwi (12 days)
Auckland - Rotorua - Tongariro National Park - Napier - Wellington - Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Kaikoura - Mount Cook National Park - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Tour Dates: Dates in red are full sorry
Dates in green are approximately 50% full already
2019: Oct 14th / Oct 28th / Nov 04th / Nov 11th / Nov 18th / Nov 25th / Dec 16th / Dec 23rd
2020: Jan 06th / Jan 16th / Jan 23rd / Jan 30th / Feb 06th / Feb 13th / Feb 17th / Feb 20th / Mar 02nd / Mar 05th / Mar 16th / Mar 23rd / Mar 30th / Apr 17th / May 16th
Tour Costs:
Cost @ NZD$7,490 / twin
Cost @ NZD$9,390 / single
DAY 1: Auckland - Rotorua
After connecting with your travel companions in Auckland our tour continues to Rotorua, via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Our first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past.
We pass through Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, where we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, we board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a relaxing sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Rotorua - Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
Situated on the serene shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers a relaxing environment with unsurpassed views of the impressive lake. The central location, with wonderful facilities, means it is an easy walking distance to many local attractions, including cafés, bars and restaurants.
Facilities include: Spa pool, gymnasium, laundry, room service.
After connecting with your travel companions in Auckland our tour continues to Rotorua, via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Our first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past.
We pass through Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, where we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, we board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a relaxing sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat.
Highlights
- The rich gold mining history of the stunning Karangahake Gorge
- Sailing across Lake Rotoiti for a soak in secluded hot pools
Today's Accommodation - Rotorua - Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
Situated on the serene shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers a relaxing environment with unsurpassed views of the impressive lake. The central location, with wonderful facilities, means it is an easy walking distance to many local attractions, including cafés, bars and restaurants.
Facilities include: Spa pool, gymnasium, laundry, room service.
DAY 2: Rotorua sightseeing
We’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand.
We'll head to the famous Lake Tarawera for a hosted lunch with our friends David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation -Rotorua - Novotel Rotorua Lakesid
We’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand.
We'll head to the famous Lake Tarawera for a hosted lunch with our friends David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories.
Highlights
- Explore the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua
- Relax over a hosted lunch at Lake Tarawera
Today's Accommodation -Rotorua - Novotel Rotorua Lakesid
DAY 3: Rotorua - Tongariro National Park
No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable. We continue on our adventure to "Great Lake" Taupo and stroll to view the famous Huka Falls.
We’ll stop around the lake on our way to Tongariro National Park. You can either relax in your hotel, the Chateau Tongariro, and enjoy the close up views of the mountains - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu or walk to the Taranaki Falls.This is a classic North Island walking trail with gentle terrain, great views and unique native plants.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - National Park - The Chateau
Constructed during the roaring twenties the Chateau Tongariro is a classic, landmark hotel at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. Enjoy the stunning views and four star service and ambience.
Facilities include: Internet facilities, fitness room, indoor pool and sauna.
No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable. We continue on our adventure to "Great Lake" Taupo and stroll to view the famous Huka Falls.
We’ll stop around the lake on our way to Tongariro National Park. You can either relax in your hotel, the Chateau Tongariro, and enjoy the close up views of the mountains - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu or walk to the Taranaki Falls.This is a classic North Island walking trail with gentle terrain, great views and unique native plants.
Highlights
- Boiling mud and unbelievable colour at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Area
- A choice of spectacular short walks to New Zealand's beautiful waterfalls
Today's Accommodation - National Park - The Chateau
Constructed during the roaring twenties the Chateau Tongariro is a classic, landmark hotel at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. Enjoy the stunning views and four star service and ambience.
Facilities include: Internet facilities, fitness room, indoor pool and sauna.
DAY 4: Tongariro NationalPark - Wellington
After a relaxed breakfast at the historic Chateau Tongariro we drive up the mountain road to the Top of the Bruce to enjoy panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. We drive around the slopes of Mt Ruapehu before we make our way down the centre of the island to our capital Wellington.
We stay two nights in Wellington as we reckon you can’t miss "the coolest little capital in the world". We’ll check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. We’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Wellington - The Bolton Hotel
Located within easy walking distance to many of Wellington’s main attractions, the five star Bolton Hotel offers stylish accommodation in the heart of the capital city’s business district and political heart.
Facilities include: Internet facilities and WiFi, on-site restaurant and bar, fully equipped gym and heated swimming pool.
After a relaxed breakfast at the historic Chateau Tongariro we drive up the mountain road to the Top of the Bruce to enjoy panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. We drive around the slopes of Mt Ruapehu before we make our way down the centre of the island to our capital Wellington.
We stay two nights in Wellington as we reckon you can’t miss "the coolest little capital in the world". We’ll check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. We’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes.
Highlights
- Be wowed by the magnificent views of Mount Ngauruhoe
- Experience the beating heart of Wellington
Today's Accommodation - Wellington - The Bolton Hotel
Located within easy walking distance to many of Wellington’s main attractions, the five star Bolton Hotel offers stylish accommodation in the heart of the capital city’s business district and political heart.
Facilities include: Internet facilities and WiFi, on-site restaurant and bar, fully equipped gym and heated swimming pool.
DAY 5: Napier - Wellington
The day is yours to enjoy, you are at the heart of the action at The Bolton Hotel a short walk to the waterfront and Te Papa National Museum. Wellington is the food lovers' capital of New Zealand with a huge selection of cafes and boutique breweries to choose from. Ask your MoaTrek Kiwi guide his favourites.
Wellington is also the spiritual home of "The Lord of Rings" where you can visit Weta Workshop and see how all the props are made.
Highlights
The day is yours to enjoy, you are at the heart of the action at The Bolton Hotel a short walk to the waterfront and Te Papa National Museum. Wellington is the food lovers' capital of New Zealand with a huge selection of cafes and boutique breweries to choose from. Ask your MoaTrek Kiwi guide his favourites.
Wellington is also the spiritual home of "The Lord of Rings" where you can visit Weta Workshop and see how all the props are made.
Highlights
- The very best of Wellington at your door
- Explore New Zealand's National Museum Te Papa
DAY 6: Wellington - Cook Strait - Picton - Blenheim - Nelson
We cruise on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant our feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Our first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch with a local right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region.
From wine country we head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.
Along the way we cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Nelson - Trailways Hotel
You’ll feel the family South Island hospitality here, the team at Trailways always welcome us as friends. Three minutes from the centre of town and 10 minutes from the cathedral, the best spot in sunny Nelson.
Facilities include: Internet and tea/coffee making facilities
We cruise on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant our feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Our first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch with a local right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region.
From wine country we head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.
Along the way we cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights.
Highlights
- Cruising the Marlborough Sounds on the Interislander
- Marlborough sauvignon blanc with lunch, delicious
Today's Accommodation - Nelson - Trailways Hotel
You’ll feel the family South Island hospitality here, the team at Trailways always welcome us as friends. Three minutes from the centre of town and 10 minutes from the cathedral, the best spot in sunny Nelson.
Facilities include: Internet and tea/coffee making facilities
DAY 7: Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson
Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to walk a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. After your magical day out we'll return to Nelson for another night
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Nelson - Trailways Hotel
Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to walk a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. After your magical day out we'll return to Nelson for another night
Highlights
- Cruising the crystal clear blue waters of Abel Tasman National Park
- Walk a section of the coastal track, relax on the beach, jump in for a swim
Today's Accommodation - Nelson - Trailways Hotel
DAY 8 : Nelson - Kaikoura
Heading towards Kaikoura the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular.
Your afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline.
There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Kaikoura - White Morph Motor Inn
Enjoy the sounds of the sea and views out to gardens in bloom at Kaikoura’s White Morph Motor Inn. This well-placed accommodation is just a short walk from the waters-edge and Kaikoura’s village centre.
Facilities include: Wifi internet access, laundry and tea/coffee makers.
Heading towards Kaikoura the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular.
Your afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline.
There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
Highlights
- First views of the Southern Alps, playground for the rest of our journey
- Kaikoura's famous marine life
Today's Accommodation - Kaikoura - White Morph Motor Inn
Enjoy the sounds of the sea and views out to gardens in bloom at Kaikoura’s White Morph Motor Inn. This well-placed accommodation is just a short walk from the waters-edge and Kaikoura’s village centre.
Facilities include: Wifi internet access, laundry and tea/coffee makers.
DAY 9: Kaikoura - Akaunui Farm homestead - Aoraki/Mt Cook
Leaving the coast we drive over the Hunderlee Hills to the Canterbury Plains. We stop for a special lunch at Akaunui, a 100-year-old homestead surrounded by large gardens and dine on wonderful fresh produce prepared by your warm hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. Get a great insight into life on a working sheep and dairy farm.
After lunch we continue through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. We’ll make plenty of stops en route, we can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of glacier fed Lake Pukaki.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Aoraki/Mount Cook - The Hermitage
Located in one of the most beautiful settings New Zealand has to offer, the Hermitage is surrounded by the Southern Alps. It offers spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding National Park World Heritage area; the Hermitage is synonymous with the Kiwi spirit of adventure.
Facilities include: Wifi internet access, tea and coffee making facilities.
Leaving the coast we drive over the Hunderlee Hills to the Canterbury Plains. We stop for a special lunch at Akaunui, a 100-year-old homestead surrounded by large gardens and dine on wonderful fresh produce prepared by your warm hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. Get a great insight into life on a working sheep and dairy farm.
After lunch we continue through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. We’ll make plenty of stops en route, we can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of glacier fed Lake Pukaki.
Highlights
- A hosted country lunch with friends at Akaunui homestead
- Watching the sun set on Aoraki/Mt Cook "the Cloud Piercer"
Today's Accommodation - Aoraki/Mount Cook - The Hermitage
Located in one of the most beautiful settings New Zealand has to offer, the Hermitage is surrounded by the Southern Alps. It offers spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding National Park World Heritage area; the Hermitage is synonymous with the Kiwi spirit of adventure.
Facilities include: Wifi internet access, tea and coffee making facilities.
DAY 10: Aoraki/Mt Cook - Queenstown (B)
Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village. Kea Point is our favourite, a gentle undulating track with incredible close up views of the valley and the mountain itself.
Alternatively take a boat cruise on a glacier lake, scenic flight or heli-hike on the Tasman glacier!
After lunch we head over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Queenstown - Scenic Suites
Your Queenstown accommodation is housed in one of the alpine-resort towns’ most desirable locations, due to its elevated position and central location near stunning Lake Wakatipu. It is also just a few minutes-walk to the centre of the bustling town and many of the alpine-resorts thrilling adventures and relaxing distractions.
Facilities include: Laundry, internet facilities and WiFi, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, room service.
Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village. Kea Point is our favourite, a gentle undulating track with incredible close up views of the valley and the mountain itself.
Alternatively take a boat cruise on a glacier lake, scenic flight or heli-hike on the Tasman glacier!
After lunch we head over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown
Highlights
- Surround yourself in New Zealand’s most stunning alpine scenery - there’s nowhere like Aoraki Mt Cook and the Tasman Glacier
- Settle in for two nights in Queenstown and enjoy the vibrant mountain scene
Today's Accommodation - Queenstown - Scenic Suites
Your Queenstown accommodation is housed in one of the alpine-resort towns’ most desirable locations, due to its elevated position and central location near stunning Lake Wakatipu. It is also just a few minutes-walk to the centre of the bustling town and many of the alpine-resorts thrilling adventures and relaxing distractions.
Facilities include: Laundry, internet facilities and WiFi, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, room service.
DAY 12: Queenstown - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Nature Cruise - Scenic Flight - Queenstown
Today is all about the one and only Milford Sound. From Queenstown we follow the shores of the great southern lakes Wakatipu and Te Anau before heading into the heart of Fiordland National Park on the spectacular Milford Road.
On arrival at Milford cruise by launch out onto the sound dominated by iconic Mitre Peak and home to birdlife, seal colonies and pods of dolphins. A magical flight over the Southern Alps returns us to Queenstown at the end of a fantastic day of touring by land, sea and air.
Highlights
- Milford Sound cruise and scenic flight, no better way to experience Fiordland
- Take New Zealand’s most stunning road through the heart of Fiordland National Park
Today's Accommodation - Queenstown - Scenic Suites
DAY 12: At leisure in Queenstown (B)
Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer, your "Kiwi Guide" will be right there to help. What do we love in Queenstown? A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in "The Lord of the Rings" scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River.
Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the TSS "Earnslaw".
After your activity fly out in the evening or do what many of our travellers do and extend your stay a day or two in Queenstown the MoaTrek team will be happy to make additional accommodation recommendations in Queenstown.
Highlights
Today's Accommodation - Queenstown - Scenic Suites
Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer, your "Kiwi Guide" will be right there to help. What do we love in Queenstown? A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in "The Lord of the Rings" scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River.
Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the TSS "Earnslaw".
After your activity fly out in the evening or do what many of our travellers do and extend your stay a day or two in Queenstown the MoaTrek team will be happy to make additional accommodation recommendations in Queenstown.
Highlights
- Take your pick from literally hundreds of activities and tours on offer in Queenstown
- Look back on your wonderful adventures over the last 16 days
Today's Accommodation - Queenstown - Scenic Suites
General Inclusions
- All transport provided in comfortable, air conditioned coach (maximum of 18 travellers).
- Services of your MoaTrek Kiwi guide who is passionate about showcasing the best of New Zealand.
- Wonderfully appointed accommodation, chosen for its location and accessibility to attractions.
- All airport transfers pre and post tour.
Included Meals
- All breakfasts(B).
- Two special lunches (L) - Te Wairoa Buried Village Lake Tarawera, Rotorua; Akaunui Farm homestead, Canterbury.
Included Activities and Entrance Fees
- Visit a working Kiwifruit orchard, meet the growers and taste the fruit fresh off the vine.
- Cruise Lake Rotoiti on the luxury yacht “Tiua” and soak in the mineral hot pools on the edge of the lake, only reached by boat.
- Te Wairoa Buried Village Museum and grounds.
- Visit the Kiwi Encounter in Rotorua and learn all about the work being done to protect our national bird.
- Learn about geothermal history with a visit to Wai-O-Tapu.
- Cross the Cook Strait from the North to the South Island on the Interislander ferry.
- Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in Marlborough, New Zealand’s premier wine-growing region.
- Take a cruise to the golden sands of the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Enjoy a scenic ride and impressive views of Queenstown on the Skyline Gondola.
- Experience Milford Sound, once called the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ on a scenic 2.5 hour nature cruise.
- Take flight over the Southern Alps with a scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown.
Included Sightseeing & Exploring
- Travel the dramatic highway through the Karangahake Gorge.
- Discover Rotorua’s impressive lakes of Rotoiti and Tarawera.
- Explore Maori cultural connections in Rotorua.
- Watch in awe as the powerful Huka Falls surge and visit the Wairakei geothermal power station, the first of its kind in the world.
- Enjoy views of three active volcanoes from across Lake Taupo.
- Take a gentle walk in the wilderness of the Tongariro National Park in the central North Island.
- Explore the eclectic café scene, bars and restaurants in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city.
- Visit the exquisite Lake Tekapo and the stunning Church of the Good Shepard located on the edge of the lake.
- Explore the diverse the flora, fauna and sights of the Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
- Learn more about New Zealand’s gold-mining history as we pass through the beautiful Kawarau Gorge.
- Explore Lake Wakatipu, one of the Great Southern Lakes.