24 Day Total New Zealand
Discover New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures on this epic 24-day journey. Explore geothermal wonders, golden beaches, and dramatic mountains while traveling in a small group.
We’ll visit all the best attractions: Cathedral Cove, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, and Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way, enjoy optional adrenaline-filled activities, experience authentic Māori culture, and create lasting memories with like-minded travelers on this incredible adventure.
- 24-day adventure tour
- Starts and ends in Auckland
- Private air-conditioned bus
- 16 breakfasts included
- Quality hostel accommodations
- Visit Hahei’s Cathedral Cove
- Explore Rotorua’s geothermal areas
- Experience Māori culture
- Hike Tongariro National Park
- Cruise Abel Tasman National Park
- Discover Wellington’s attractions
- Optional adventure activities
- Trip length:
- 24 Days
- Group size:
- Max 24
- Start:
- Auckland
- End:
- Auckland
- Vehicle:
- Airconditoned Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Hostel Style
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Pictures / Videos Itinerary
See MapDAY 1: ARRIVAL IN AUCKLAND
Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to Aotearoa (New Zealand) the land of the long white cloud. Make your way to your hostel and then go and explore the city, we recommend starting at the waterfront which is a downhill walk from your accommodation. Meet your Guide at 6pm for an introduction to your tour and a complimentary welcome drink before heading out together for some dinner (own cost).
Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City (5 Turner St, Auckland CBD)
Free Activities: Walk the waterfront
Included Activities: Welcome drink
DAY 2: AUCKLAND ISLAND EXPERIENCE
Auckland has one of the best harbours in the world and it’s known locally as the “City of Sails”. Today you’ll get to experience Auckland from the water as we head out to Rangitoto Island for the day. This dormant volcano which is 1 of 44 in the region sits just out from the city in the Waitemata harbour, the views are simply stunning from the city scape and out to the gulf and surrounding islands. It’s the perfect way to get you in the groove with this amazing country and clear your head to get you ready for the amazing experience over the next 23 days of non-stop adventure!
Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Activities: Water taxi to Rangitoto Island, hike a volcano
DAY 3: AUCKLAND TO HAHEI
Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ (goodbye) to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ (hello) to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. This gorgeous little place will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast eternally). When the tides are right, we’ll drive over to the nearby Hot Water Beach and dig ourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand. Who said backpackers can’t do luxury?
Accommodation: Hahei Holiday Resort
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies en-route - Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner
Optional Activities: Kayaking or Hahei Explorer
Free Activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach
DAY 4: HAHEI TO ROTORUA
Rise and shine for an early start this morning as you walk to Hahei Beach to watch the sunrise. Then it’s straight back into the bus for our journey to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Before we get to Rotorua, we’ll stop for an incredibly scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and then we’ll head to the home of the Hobbit and enjoy a tour of the real movie set, which was created right here in Middle Earth! When we arrive in Rotorua, head for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest and then explore the township. There are so many activities available in Rotorua - ask your guide for options!
Accommodation: Haka House Rotorua
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Included Activity: Hobbiton Movie Set
Free Activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk
DAY 5: ROTORUA TO LAKE ANIWHENUA
This morning, we’ll head to Kuirau Park where we’ll see some geothermal activity, boiling mud pools and steaming lakes! After hanging out in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, you’ll probably feel ready to experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. Today we venture off the beaten track to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a local Maori family who are passionate about their Maori tribal heritage and their local community. You'll see sacred Maori rock carvings, play traditional stick games and watch the preparation of a ground-cooked 'hangi', before tasting it for yourself! Prepare your tastebuds - this will probably be the best meal you eat in New Zealand, or maybe even in your lifetime!
Accommodation: Kohutapu Lodge
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, traditional hangi dinner and dessert
Included Activities: Learn the Haka, Maori flax weaving
Free Activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball, Maori cultural games
DAY 6: LAKE ANIWHENUA TO LAKE TAUPO
Rise and shine! Enjoy your buffet breakfast and get ready for a day of jam-packed adventure. Keep your togs (swimwear) handy, because our first stop is Kerosene Creek – a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak. Then it’s on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the mighty Huka Falls, grab lunch and take a walk to explore or simply relax at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Haka House Taupo
Optional Paid Activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free Activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo
DAY 7: TAUPO TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
This morning we’ll head to the iconic Tongariro National Park for an adventurous couple of days. On arrival at the park, we’ll receive a safety briefing for our whitewater rafting trip along the Tongariro River - the perfect way to kick off our Tongariro experience! Along the 13-km stretch of river, we’ll navigate grade-3 rapids (perfect for first-time rafters), which will get the adrenaline pumping, but we’ll also have time to admire the incredible native bush, pine forests, and volcanic cliffs along the way, as well as some native NZ wildlife such as the elusive Whio, our endangered blue ducks, who love to nest along the river. Afterwards, we’ll head back to base to dry off and check out some of the amazing photos of us all on the rapids before making our way to our accommodation for some well-earned rest!
Accommodation: Alpine Chalets
Included Activity: Whitewater rafting in the Tongariro River
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 8: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
Limber up! Today you get the chance to tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Considered one of the world’s top one-day walks, this 19 km hike takes you across a rocky plateau with dramatic volcanic peaks, craters, and turquoise lakes that you (and your Instagram feed) will remember for a lifetime. The Crossing is open to walk year-round (alpine gear and guide are required in winter), but it is subject to the weather conditions. If the weather prevents you from doing the Crossing, there are other awesome short walks in the area. Tonight, unwind after a big day in your chalet.
Accommodation: Alpine Chalets
Included Activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing transfers
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water.
Free Activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool)
DAY 9: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK TO WELLINGTON
Onwards to Wellington, the ‘coolest little capital in the world’! Wellington packs a lot of character into its downtown district, with great restaurants and bars along Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. Fill your afternoon by browsing through the exhibits at Te Papa National Museum, grab a craft beer at a brewery, climb to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views, or take a stroll along the waterfront and Oriental Parade. Oh, and most importantly for the coffee lovers, you’ll be glad to know that Wellington’s coffee culture and cafe scene is considered one of the best in NZ.
Accommodation: Haka House Wellington
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views, visit Te Papa National Museum, Gumboot (welly) throwing
DAY 10: WELLINGTON TO MARAHAU (ABEL TASMAN)
Today we’ll catch an early ferry across the Cook Strait and through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck to witness some incredible scenes and spot some wildlife. From there we’ll set off through the picturesque Marlborough region to Marahau. Our accommodation is situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park - perfect for exploring arguably the best National Park in NZ.
Accommodation: The Barn Marahau
Optional Paid Activities: Wine tasting ($15pp)
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free Activities: Stargazing
Included Activity: Ferry Crossing to the South Island
DAY 11: MARAHAU (ABEL TASMAN)
Count yourself lucky because you have a full day to explore New Zealand’s most popular national park today. From our accommodation, we’ll be picked up and taken by water taxi to Anchorage Bay, admiring the park’s natural golden sand beaches and brilliant blue waters along the way. Enjoy a picnic on the beach before checking out Cleopatra’s Pools, moss-lined freshwater pools with a natural water slide, and then we’ll walk approximately 4 hours back to our accommodation, stopping along the way to take amazing photos and swim in the secluded bays.
Accommodation: The Barn Marahau
Included Activity: Water taxi into Anchorage Bay
Optional Paid Activities: Kayaking, skydiving, canyoning - (PM)
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQs
Free Activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools
DAY 12: MARAHAU (ABEL TASMAN) TO FRANZ JOSEF
Buckle up for an awesome day driving down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast, an area known for its untamed beaches and spectacular rainforest. Through Buller Gorge and down a stretch of road named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, there’s not much phone reception but you are NOT going to need it – we dare you to peel your eyes away from the window for even just a second. We’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of the coastline before continuing on to the quaint township of Franz Josef, set amongst the rainforest. Tonight, we’ll have a group dinner together at our accommodation.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Buller Gorge, Pancake Rocks and blowholes, Hokitika
DAY 13: FRANZ JOSEF
Ice, ice baby! Get ready to experience the Franz Josef Glacier, an iconic highlight of the West Coast. Take a short drive to the beginning of the track. Hike through native bush and across glacial streams to the terminal face of the glacier for spectacular photos, or just hang out at the Retreat and relax in one of NZ’s largest spa pools.
Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat
Optional Paid Activities: Shuttle to the track
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Glacier hike, bush tracks, soak in the spa
DAY 14: FRANZ JOSEF TO QUEENSTOWN
It’s another scenic journey today with plenty of photo stops. First up is the amazing Lake Matheson, known as the mirror lake, for a short walk. We travel inland through the mountainous Haast Pass and alongside beautiful Lake Hawea into Queenstown. Once settled, put on your dancing shoes and head out to explore this lakeside resort—there are over 100 clubs and bars to choose from in Queenstown!
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
DAY 15 & 16: QUEENSTOWN (2 FREE DAYS)
Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! You’ve got 2 full days in the adventure capital. With an awesome nightlife, beautiful mountain scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place.
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
Optional Paid Activities: Any adventure activity that we Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…)
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak
DAY 17: MILFORD SOUND DAY TRIP
Today you’ll hop aboard the coach and we’ll take you to the stunning and world-famous Milford Sound. After a super scenic drive, you’ll board the boat and cruise across the Sound. Look out for the impressive Mitre Peak, lush rainforests, and (if it’s been raining) thundering waterfalls. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot amazing wildlife like fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. Once you’ve snapped as many pics as you possibly can, it’s back to Queenstown where you can check out some of the many restaurants Queenstown has to offer—or try the famous Fergburger!
Accommodation: Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Included Activity: Day trip to Milford Sound
DAY 18: QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE TEKAPO
It’s a short drive to Lake Tekapo this morning where we’ll see an electric blue lake framed by the Southern Alps. Walk over to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, a quaint stone church right on the edge of the lake for some awesome photo opportunities. In the afternoon, take a hike up to the Mount John Observatory to see the incredible views, or if you'd rather just have a ‘self-care’ afternoon, then the Tekapo Hot Springs are the perfect place to relax. Tonight, we’ll head to the team at Dark Sky for their Crater Experience where you’ll have the chance to stargaze at one of the best stargazing spots in the country.
Accommodation: Haka House Lake Tekapo
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Included Activity: Dark Sky Crater Experience
Optional Paid Activities: Tekapo Hot Springs, Ice Skating, Snow Tubing
Meal Options: Self-catering in the hostel kitchen or local bars and restaurants
Free Activities: Mount John Observatory Hike, Church of the Good Shepherd, Stargazing
DAY 19: LAKE TEKAPO TO CHRISTCHURCH
Our next stop is Christchurch, a super cool city with the Avon River running through it, full of lush parks and cool laneway bars! Spend your afternoon wandering the city streets to discover creative street art and hidden eateries, visit the Botanic Gardens, do some shopping, or hop on the tourist tram and see the sights!
Accommodation: Bealey Quarter
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Explore Christchurch by foot, check out the new Riverside Market, Botanic Gardens
DAY 20: CHRISTCHURCH TO KAIKOURA
We’ve got an early morning start for a beautiful drive up the coast to Kaikoura, arriving around midday so you have the afternoon free to explore. See the Kekeno (NZ fur seal) colony near Goose Bay and hike around the peninsula to check out the breath-taking views from the lookout. You’re likely to see sea birds, seals, and maybe even whales or dolphins if you’re lucky. Or, if you’d like to see whales and dolphins, jump on a boat or plane!
Accommodation: Dusky Lodge
Optional Paid Activities: Whale watching by boat or by plane, swimming with dolphins, guided fishing trip
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Visit a fur seal colony, walk around the peninsula and up to the lookout
DAY 21: KAIKOURA TO WELLINGTON (VIA PICTON)
This morning we’ll hop on the bus and wind our way up the coastal roads towards the top of the South Island. We’ll catch the afternoon Ferry across the Cook Strait and then you’ll have the evening in Wellington, your second chance to explore the city’s nightlife!
Accommodation: Haka House Wellington
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Seal and dolphin spotting
Included Activity: Ferry Crossing to the North Island
DAY 22: WELLINGTON TO RAGLAN
Today is a spectacular drive through the central North Island to the surf town of Raglan, a jewel on the west coast of the North Island. Raglan is the mecca for surfing in New Zealand and a creative’s delight, living in Raglan is a life where the sunsets are nothing short of jaw-dropping and the motto is ‘no worries’!
Accommodation: Raglan Backpackers
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Walk the beach and see the sunset!
DAY 23: RAGLAN TO AUCKLAND
Head out and catch a wave this morning or enjoy a relaxing morning soaking in the amazing cafe scene. On our way back to Auckland, we’ll check out Bridal Veil Falls, an impressive 55m high waterfall. Then we’ll continue north, arriving in Auckland early afternoon, with plenty of daylight left to enjoy your last night in New Zealand with your new Stray family.
Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Meal Options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free Activities: Walk the beach, check out the town
Optional Paid Activities: Surfing, kayaking, or a creative class
DAY 24: DEPART AUCKLAND
All good things must come to an end, and after an incredible few weeks of exploring New Zealand it’s officially time to head to the airport. We hope this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and you’ll take some of New Zealand's way of life home with you. Please come back and visit us again someday!
