16 Day Christchurch to Auckland

Map View Full Details Reviews

Embark on an unforgettable 16-day adventure through New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and rich Māori culture.

From Christchurch to Auckland, explore golden beaches, majestic mountains, and surreal geothermal wonders. Highlights include a Māori cultural night with a traditional hāngī meal, learning the haka and poi dances, and carving your own pounamu (greenstone) pendant in Franz Josef. Optional excursions to Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, Tongariro Crossing, and Milford Sound offer additional adventures.

Includes

Explore North & South Islands
Starts Christchurch, ends Auckland
Daily breakfast included
Vegetarian-friendly meals

Visit Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Experience Māori culture
Milford Sound cruise included
Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Franz Josef glacier visit
Explore Queenstown activities
Golden beaches at Abel Tasman
Small group tour experience

Trip length:: 16 Days
Group size:: Max 24
Start:: Christchurch
End:: Auckland

Vehicle:: Airconditoned Mini Bus
Sleep:: Hostel
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

See Map

DAY 1 – CHRISTCHURCH TO MACKENZIE COUNTRY

Welcome to your New Zealand Adventure! This morning we’ll explore iconic downtown Christchurch and your guide will show you the cool and creative ways the city is being rebuilt after the life-changing 2011 earthquake here. Christchurch folk are an innovative and creative bunch – the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard, is totally inspirational. After lunch, we leave the city behind and head for Lake Tekapo. The lake’s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer’s dream come true. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd stands right at the water’s edge, proving that small is definitely beautiful. Tekapo has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve, and the super clear skies make it the best place in New Zealand to see the stars and galaxies on a clear night. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

DAY 2 – MACKENZIE COUNTRY TO QUEENSTOWN

This morning, if you’re feeling energetic, hike up to the summit of Mt John. With awesome views of the Southern Alps, you’ll feel on top of the world. Speaking of views, today’s scenic drive to Queenstown is a show-stopper. From the golden tussocklands of Mackenzie Country – where epic battles of Return of the King were filmed – to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, it’s like you’re driving into a postcard. We’ll pause for lots of photo stops en route to give your camera a workout, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge. This also happens to be the World Home of Bungy. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, avid hiker, wine taster, or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone. With two nights here, get ready – this town certainly knows how to live life to the max!

DAY 3 – QUEENSTOWN

With a full day in Queenstown, let’s work on that bucket list! There are heaps of options to choose from: paragliding over the lake, hiking trails, bungy jumping, horse riding through Lord of the Rings scenery, or swinging through a canyon. For scenery lovers, Milford Sound is a must-see. Once on the Sound, sail beneath thundering waterfalls and towering cliffs, understanding why some call it the “8th Wonder of the World.” Tonight, choose from around 40 bars to share your adventures or party the night away.

DAY 4 – QUEENSTOWN TO WANAKA

One last morning in Queenstown to work on that bucket list. What will it be today – a canyoning experience, a Lord of the Rings 4x4 safari, or a jet boat ride along the Shotover River? After the excitement of Queenstown, this afternoon is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown’s quieter little sister, a mere one-hour drive away. On the way, we’ll stop at charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with old-world character. Wanaka’s towering peaks and glacial blue lake make it one of New Zealand’s most beautiful mountain towns.

DAY 5 – WANAKA TO FRANZ JOSEF

This morning, explore Wanaka with optional activities like skydiving, a lake cruise, or scenic short walks. The journey to Franz Josef is stunning. From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won’t want to nap on the bus. Along the way, we’ll stop at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka for a top lakeside lookout. Franz Josef’s UNESCO World Heritage area, famous for its glacier, is just 5 kilometres from town, begging to be explored tomorrow.

DAY 6 – FRANZ JOSEF

Franz Josef’s setting, with Aoraki/Mount Cook twinkling behind the glaciers, is breathtaking. Included in your tour today is the chance to carve your own pounamu pendant at a local gallery. Explore Franz Josef Glacier with options like a scenic helicopter flight, glacier hiking, or kayaking on a glacial lake. Skydiving and karaoke are also on the cards for those seeking extra adventure.

DAY 7 – FRANZ JOSEF TO CHRISTCHURCH

After breakfast, we head along the West Coast, a rugged landscape of rainforest and ocean views. We’ll stop at Hokitika to visit a greenstone factory and possibly the National Kiwi Centre. Then, we cross the Southern Alps on the stunning TranzAlpine Train, arriving in Christchurch by 6:30pm.

DAY 8 – CHRISTCHURCH TO KAIKŌURA

You can have a lie-in this morning if you want! There is also a chance to explore the city and do some shopping before we leave for Kaikōura. Rugged snowcapped mountains drop right down to the beach in Kaikōura, making it an incredible backdrop to experience the famous sea life in the area. There’s something for every traveler in Kaikōura: go giant whale watching, fishing, kayaking, or encounter hundreds of friendly and curious wild dolphins in the bright blue water. Be sure to have your camera ready for a visit to the fur seal colonies (there may even be baby seals!) and for all the great sea life you’re going to spot.

DAY 9 – KAIKŌURA TO WELLINGTON

After kicking off the morning with some final exploration of Kaikōura, we head north. Upon arriving in Picton, there is a short break to explore the port and get something to eat before catching the ferry to Wellington. Sailing the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands is one of New Zealand’s iconic activities. Enjoy views of the Marlborough Sounds and the city skyline of New Zealand’s capital during the ferry ride. Wellington’s bars and eateries are a paradise for craft beer lovers – you’ll be spoilt for choice tonight!

DAY 10 – WELLINGTON TO TAUPŌ

In the morning, your tour guide will give you a tour of Wellington city and the surrounding bays. This can include a trip to Weta Workshop, where films like Lord of the Rings have been made. We may also visit the parliament buildings, cable car, and Mount Victoria. On the way to Taupō, we drive along the Desert Road through the Rangipo Desert, passing Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings. We arrive at the accommodation by evening. With a full day to explore Taupō tomorrow, feel free to relax at the hostel or enjoy the town’s nightlife.

DAY 11 – TAUPŌ

A full day in Taupō offers peaceful lakeside tranquility or adrenaline-filled adventures. For many, the ultimate experience is the Tongariro Crossing, one of the top 10 full-day hikes in the world. The trek boasts emerald lakes, venting steam, and craters. Alternatively, enjoy a boat trip to view Māori rock carvings or soak in Spa Park’s hot pools. However you choose to spend today, it’s sure to be unforgettable.

DAY 12 – TAUPŌ TO MURUPARA

After our morning in Taupō, we head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara, a living Māori village. Experience a tribal tour led by a village elder, learn the haka, and weave your dinner plate using flax. Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal, cooked in an underground oven. The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.

DAY 13 – MURUPARA TO ROTORUA

Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. On the way, we stop at one of its extraordinary geyserlands and thermal parks. This evening, we visit Te Puia, where you can explore the Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, see native kiwi birds, and learn about Māori culture.

DAY 14 – ROTORUA

Today is a free day to explore Rotorua. Optional activities include white water rafting, zip-lining, zorbing, or kayaking on Lake Rotoiti. For relaxation, visit geothermal hot pools or explore Kuirau Park’s mud pools. Let your guide help plan your day!

DAY 15 – ROTORUA TO COROMANDEL

Today, we leave Rotorua behind for the Coromandel. On the way, we visit Hobbiton Movie Set, where a guided tour reveals the magic of Middle-earth. Later, enjoy a walk to Cathedral Cove, known for its stunning beaches and rock formations.

DAY 16 – COROMANDEL TO AUCKLAND

We conclude our adventure with a visit to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand. Finally, we head to Auckland, the ‘City of Sails,’ arriving in the late afternoon. Your tour ends here, but your memories will last forever!

See Map

What to bring

What to Bring for Your New Zealand Adventure

Luggage • Suitcase or Backpack: Choose what you’re comfortable with, as long as it’s under 15kg (33lbs) and easy to carry/load yourself. • Day Pack: Essential for hikes and day trips.

Clothing Essentials • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Broken-in and sturdy; hiking boots optional for tougher trails. • Rain/Waterproof Jacket: Lightweight and essential for unpredictable weather. • Layered Clothing: Include lightweight merino layers for temperature versatility. • Warm Jumper or Hoodie: For non-rainy, cooler days. • Non-Cotton Long Pants: Fast-drying options like hiking pants or leggings. • Jeans: Suitable for casual use. • Scarf or Shawl: Multi-use for sun protection, warmth, or as a blanket. • Flip Flops (Jandals/Thongs): Handy for downtime or beach trips. • Sunglasses & Brimmed Hat: For sun protection. • Swimsuit: Perfect for beaches and hot pools.

Non-Clothing Essentials • Reusable Water Bottle: Eco-friendly and practical for NZ’s drinkable tap water. • Towel: Preferably quick-drying. • Electronics: Phone, camera, chargers, memory cards, and a travel adapter. • Medications: Bring prescriptions and basics; pharmacies are well-stocked locally. • Toiletries: Pack light; most essentials are available in NZ.

Seasonal Essentials • Winter: Wool hat, gloves, and thick socks. • Summer: Lightweight shorts, skirts, or dresses. • Spring & Autumn: Be prepared for all listed items due to variable weather.

Additional Tips • NZ weather is unpredictable—prepare for all seasons in one day. • Shops like The Warehouse and Kmart can cover forgotten items. • Save room for souvenirs and follow this rule: pack half of what you think you need and bring twice the money!

What is included

TRANSPORT

Comfortable air-conditioned bus

ACCOMMODATION

15 nights in high-end hostels
Dorm share (4–6 beds)
Private room upgrades available

MEALS

15 breakfasts
1 traditional hāngī dinner

EQUIPMENT

All camping and activity equipment provided

ACTIVITIES

Cathedral Cove walk
Learn haka and flax weaving
Te Puia Māori Village visit
See kiwi birds
Huka Falls visit
Mount Victoria lookout
Cook Strait ferry crossing
Kaikōura seal colony visit
Lake Tekapo Church of the Good Shepherd
Stargazing in Tekapo’s Dark Sky Reserve
Arrowtown visit
Pounamu carving in Franz Josef
Mountain Jade Factory visit in Hokitika

OTHER

Experienced local guide
Small groups (maximum 16 people)
Orientation tours in each location

Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.

Trip Info

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I take?

We don't have an exact policy when it comes to luggage though we just ask our customers to be mindful that we have limited space. Generally we recommend people to bring a large backpack/suitcase with all their gear and another smaller backpack to keep on the bus and hold their daily items ( phone, water bottle, towel, sunscreen etc ) and which they used to take on walks etc.

If you have a lot of luggage is best to leave the things you don't need at your hotel/hostel where they will store it for free.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.

If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

For camping tours there will be no time to do laundry.

However, for longer cross country tours involving hostel or hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours require you to have a sleeping bag.

If you don't have one they may be available for hire via the "join tour" button.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.

Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe. If you have a mobile plan with internet then that should be ok except for more remote regions.

This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help.

Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.

Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.

However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.

If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.

Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.

Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.

The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.

As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

What type of groups go on these tours?

Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.

Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.

For more information please contact us directly.

How many people will be on tour?

Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.

Is there an age limit?

We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.

Do I need to be able to swim?

If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information as this may vary for different itineraries.

Cost and Fees

What does "Paid Locally" mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick up times and locations, please check out the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary. Here we list everywhere we can pick up from and their respective times.

There is a lot of information here to help you plan your flights and arrival.

Please review careful as these can vary from tour to tour.

Reviews

Leave a review:

from

AUD4299

Join Tour

Ask a Question We'll Call You