Active New Zealand

New Zealand’s lofty mountains, glassy lakes, pure rivers, and dramatic coastlines provide the perfect backdrop for an adventure vacation to remember. Whilst everyone’s idea of adventure is different, New Zealand has an activity to satisfy one and all, from the avid hiker or diver, to the absolute adrenaline junkie and these inspiring and diverse landscapes form a natural playground for you to explore.

1. Days 1-3: Waiheke Island

   Situated just a short ferry ride away from Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke is a beautiful island rimmed with golden beaches and covered by a blanket of vineyards. Despite being famed for its gourmet experiences, Waiheke also offers visitors a wide range of soft adventure from sailing around the island to hiking along its beautiful coastline. Hire kayaks and explore the islands sun-drenched bays and coves or visit Oneroa market, buy some locally produced food and enjoy a picnic on one of the islands scenic viewpoints overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.

   
   

   Accommodation: The Boatshed (2 nights)

2. Days 3-5: Taupo

   After returning to Auckland collect your hire car and begin the scenic drive through the heart of the Waikato region towards Taupo, home to New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake. Taupo offers some of the north islands most exhilarating activities and we have included an adrenalin pumping jetboat ride along the mighty Waikato River to the thundering Huka Falls. Alternatively, you can opt to skydive over the sensational body of water – a truly inspiring site or for those that prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, New Zealand’s most famous day walk – The Tongariro Crossing is a must do.  
   

   
   

   Accommodation: Huka Lodge (2 nights)

3. Days 5-7: Nelson

   Fly from Rotorua across the Cook Strait to Nelson, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. Known as one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions it is here that the kiwi’s themselves chose to vacation. Abel Tasman National Park epitomizes soft adventure. Kayak around the many bays and coves or admire the playful dolphins and seals from the many coastal walking and cycling tracks.
   
   

   Accommodation: Edenhouse (2 nights)

4. Days 7-10: Kaikoura

   Your next destination is Kaikoura, often referred to as “a maritime Serengeti”. Sperm whales can be found feeding in the deep-water canyon all year round, whilst visiting Humpback and Southern Right whales are known to pass by on their migration. Orcas visit these waters to prey on the huge colonies of New Zealand fur seals and you are also able to swim with the resident Dusky dolphins that can amass pods of over 300. During your time in Kaikoura we have included a whale watching trip which will see you head out into the water in search of whales and other marine wildlife.
   
   

   Accommodation: Hapuku Lodge (3 nights)

5. Days 10-11: Christchurch

   Continue to Christchurch, New Zealand’s garden city which will be your base for the next few days. Known traditionally for its heritage buildings, many beautiful parks and quaint English city vibe, the Christchurch of today is an innovative city where regeneration and innovation thrive and where popups, street art and creativity flourish. Explore Hagley Park or shop in the innovative PopUp Mall, a consumer mall made entirely out of shipping containers. Another must-see in Christchurch is the innovative cardboard cathedral, an entirely cardboard life-size reconstruction of the cities fallen cathedral. On your last morning in Christchurch you will be taken to Christchurch station for your TranzAlpine journey to the west coast.  
   
   

   Accommodation: The George (1 night)

6. Days 11-13: Franz Josef

   Thrilling, inspiring, dramatic – these are just some of the words that come to mind when experiencing one of the world’s greatest train journeys, which has been included in this itinerary. Crossing the mountainous spine of the south island, journey through the patchwork plains of Canterbury before coming face to face with the mighty Southern Alps. On arrival in Greymouth collect your hire car and drive south along the coastal road towards the South Islands Glacier Country and the mountain village of Franz Josef. The following morning, we have included a thrilling Heli-hike experience on Franz Josef Glacier that will see you soar high over the glacier before descending onto the ice allowing you to walk amidst the beautiful blue ice caves, pristine peaks and jagged seracs.
   

   Accommodation: Westwood Lodge (2 nights)

7. Days 13-17: Queenstown

   After your adrenaline enthused Franz Josef experience continue to Queenstown, renowned the world over as being New Zealand’s adventure capital. We have included a full day guided tour of Queenstown, highlighting the multiple attractions and must do’s - the perfect way to orientate yourself and plan for the rest of your time in Queenstown.  At leisure here, you may like to explore the neighboring Central Otago vineyards or take a cruise along the peaceful Lake Wakatipu. Follow in the footsteps of Frodo and discover some of the Lord of the Rings filming locations on an exhilarating 4WD or bungee jump of the Kawarau Bridge over the azure blue glacial river below.
   
   

   Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge (4 nights)

Waiheke Island, Taupo, Nelson, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Franz Josef & Queenstown