NZVentures is where your New Zealand adventure holiday starts...
Venture further than you thought possible with these 8 great independent adventure holiday packages. Ranging from 3 days to 16 days have a closer look and decide which one suits your needs.
Top n Tail
16 Day Adventure Tour New Zealand - departs EVERY Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday
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Transport, 15 nights private accommodation
Highlights: Waitomo region, Boiling mud pools, Thunderous Huka Falls, Return journey on Scenic Interisland Ferry, Punakaiki Rocks and blowhole, Scenic Truman Track, View Greenstone carving in Hokitika, The original bungy site at historic Kawerau Bridge, Stunning journeys through Kahurangi, Paparoa, Westland, Mt Aspiring, Fiordland and Tongariro National Parks, MacKenzie Country and views of Mt Cook, Kaikoura seal colony, Art deco town of Napier, Beach resort of Mount Maunganui, Scenic Karangahake Gorge
Sector TA 01: AUCKLAND - THAMES - ROTORUA
For many Magic Travellers this is the start of your New Zealand adventure, and what a great day we have in store for you. First up we take you to Mt Eden for the best view of Auckland, locally known as the City of Sails. After taking in this stunning panorama, we travel southeast across the Hauraki Plains across the quaint single lane Kopu bridge to Thames. Thames is the starting point for any passengers heading off to one of New Zealand's best regional destinations, the Coromandel Peninsula. From Thames we continue onto Paeroa, where you can pose for a photo with the world famous (in NZ) L&P bottle, before heading into the spa town of Te Aroha. Jump off and spend the night here if you want to experience hot soda springs that will ease away any aches and pains. Next stop Matamata (Hobbiton). Yes you LOTR fans will get the chance to have a picture in front of the Hobbiton sign before joining an optional Hobbiton tour. From here on in we turn up the adrenaline with an optional off-road safari and a lunch-time visit to Agroventures. Here you can Agrojet, Freefall Extreme, Schweeb or Swoop to your hearts content (you will find out more about these crazy inventions when you arrive!). We arrive into Rotorua by early afternoon where Maori culture and thermal activity combine to make a very unique destination. Upon arrival, you will be treated to a scenic tour of the city via the lake and government gardens before experiencing a heartfelt cultural welcome to the area. Next on the agenda is a tour of a local Greenstone (Pounamu) factory the sacred stone of NZ. Why not arrange a time to go back and design your very own memento of NZ. We then visit Whakarewarewa Village, a living Maori village with an abundance of culture and thermal activity on offer. Those choosing not to visit the village will get the chance to visit the stunning Redwood Forest. This evening enjoy your free tour injection - the superb Maori Hangi and Concert: learn about the Maori way of life, a tribal village, fierce haka and enjoy a traditional hangi meal.
Approximate arrival into Rotorua is 4.30pm
Sector TA2: ROTORUA - WAITOMO - TAUPO
Prepare yourself for a day jam-packed full of adventure!! We start the day heading west to Waitomo to visit the famous Glow-worm Caves, which are over 30 million years old. By early afternoon we depart Waitomo and head towards Taupo. Our first stop is the mighty Huka Falls, throwing over 200,000 litres of water each second. Those in for an adrenaline rush will have the chance to try out the jet boat on the Huka river. For those wanting to experience one of the best thrills in NZ, Taupo is one of the most amazing places to skydive in NZ. From 15,000 feet you can see both coasts of NZ, just ask your driver to sort you out with a jump. For those not partaking in these adrenaline activities we continue onto Taupo, situated on the edge of a lake bigger than Singapore, in true Kiwi fashion this means there are heaps of things to do. Make sure you spend two nights here if you can to experience horse riding, kayaking or fishing on the lake, to name just a few options. Taupo is also the departure point to attempt the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Described as NZ's best one day trek you will need at least two nights in Taupo to undertake the walk that takes you into the heart of volcano country, Mt Doom. The nightlife in Taupo is outstanding, with many decent bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Approximate arrival time in Taupo is 4.30pm.
Sector TA3: TAUPO - WELLINGTON
If you are brave, start the day with a dip in New Zealand’s largest lake. We then head south out of Taupo, travelling along the Desert Road. Welcome to Lord of the Rings country, with amazing photo opportunities of the Tongariro National Park, live volcanoes and ‘Mt. Doom’. Later in the day we pass through the imaginatively named town of Bulls. Make sure you pay attention and try and spot a few of the unique shop names – it’s unforgettabull! In the afternoon, we arrive into Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, were we stop to view Parliament Buildings and ‘The Beehive’ before heading to the summit of Mt Victoria for some fantastic views. There’s plenty to keep you busy here including lively cafes and bars, and don’t miss a visit to Te Papa, the national museum.
Approximate arrival time in Wellington is 4.00pm
Sector TA5: WELLINGTON - PICTON - NELSON
This morning you will be transferred to the ferry terminal where you will catch the ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island. The Magic coach will meet you on the other side and you will quickly begin the next part of the journey through the beautiful countryside and famous wine regions toward Nelson arriving late afternoon. Nelson ‘the sunshine capital of NZ’ is an arty city, has a relaxed atmosphere, and is the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, a beautiful region with golden beaches and sparkling water.
Approximate arrival time in Nelson is 3.30pm
Sector TA6: NELSON - GREYMOUTH
After leaving Nelson, we journey through the Hope Saddle and cross the picturesque Buller Gorge to the ‘Wild West Coast’. Today you will become aware of the amazing scenery and warm welcome that the West Coast is famous for. After driving through one of the many National Parks in the region – the Paparoa National Park, take in some fresh air with a stroll on the Truman Track that lets you appreciate the rainforest and amazing coastline up close. During the afternoon we take a stop to visit the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks which are a pretty amazing sight, especially when the sea is in full swing, before we head onto our overnight stop. Tonight in Greymouth we recommend you take part in a tour of the (very kiwi) Monteiths Brewery including an all you can eat BBQ. It’s a great chance to meet some of the interesting locals.
Approximate arrival time in Greymouth is 5.00pm
Sector TA7: GREYMOUTH - FRANZ JOSEF
This morning we travel further down the West Coast toward Hokitika, famous for its local cuisine and Pounamu / Greenstone. The traces of gold rush that brought thousands to the area in the mid 1800s are still evident in the historic town of Ross, where we stop for a spot of gold panning. During the summer months (October to March) we take a drive into the scenic Okarito lagoon. We arrive in Franz Josef alpine village in time for those who want to partake in a half day glacier hike. If you wish to aim higher, take a heli-hike that will deliver you to the top of the glacier. If you want a bit more of a challenge, allow an extra day and go for the full day glacier hike (there are not too many opportunities in the world to do something like this). If glaciers aren’t your thing, another option here is to go kayaking on a local lake.
Approximate arrival time into Franz Josef in winter is 12.00pm and summer is 1.00pm
Sector TA8: FRANZ JOSEF - QUEENSTOWN
We have an early start for an action packed day. First up we pass through Fox, another town nestled next to a glacier before stopping off at Lake Matheson. Often called the ‘Mirror Lake’ for those ‘picture postcard’ photos, as the lake reflects the Southern Alps which dominate the skyline. The scenery will change from dense forest to vast plateaus as we enter the Central Otago region. Make sure you have your cameras ready as we visit Lake Hawea and later, Lake Wanaka – a recommended overnight stop. Next up, is a stop at the home of the bungy, the Kawarau Bridge, 42m over the Kawerau River and the world’s first commercial bungy site. We head into Queenstown late afternoon where there are endless activity options, from mild to wild. We have allowed two days in Queenstown (but many people prefer to stay longer) to soak it all up.
Approximate arrival time in Queenstown is 5.30pm
Sector TAFree: IN QUEENSTOWN
Spend the day trying out some of the huge range of activities on offer in ‘the adventure capital of the world’
Sector TA9: QUEENSTOWN - DUNEDIN
Life will slow down a little as we leave Queenstown behind us. We head off along the old gold mining trail taking in some spectacular scenery through central Otago to Dunedin. When you arrive in Dunedin why not join the highly recommended Elm Wildlife Tour that takes you to the Otago Peninsular to spot yellow-eyed penguins, albatross and seals up close. For something quite different, visit the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, where samples are included (yum!), or perhaps finish of a great day by joining the evening Speights Brewery Tour.
Approximate arrival time into Dunedin is 12.30pm
Sector TA10: DUNEDIN - LAKE TEKAPO
We start the day with a chance to run up the world’s steepest street (that’s you not the Magic coach!). The next stop is a walk on the beach to see the Moeraki Boulders, renowned for their unique spherical shape. Then, after passing through the stone town of Oamaru, if a real New Zealand experience is what you are after take the opportunity to jump off and stay at a working farm in Kurow, an unmissable stop! As we head into the Mackenzie Country, we pass by the Benmore Dam, the largest earth dam in the Southern Hemisphere. Keep an eye on the scenery as there are some amazing views of Aoraki Mt. Cook and the many surrounding lakes. The tranquil Lake Tekapo is our overnight destination. There is a lot on offer including an optional day trip to Mt Cook, sightseeing flights of the Southern Alps or visit the idyllic Church of the Good Shepherd. Tonight, don’t miss the chance to view the Southern Hemisphere stars up close.
Approximate arrival time into Lake Tekapo is 4.00pm
Sector TA11: LAKE TEKAPO - CHRISTCHURCH
After leaving the shores of Lake Tekapo, we travel around the edges of the stunning Mackenzie Country, crossing over Burkes Pass and the foothills of the Southern Alps. We then pass through the picturesque towns of Fairlie and Geraldine, stopping here for a short time. For those considering undertaking the ‘Lord of the Rings’ tour, let your driver know as you can get picked up just beyond Geraldine. The coach then heads through the Canterbury Plains, the largest area of flat land in NZ – a huge contrast to previous days travel! On arrival in Christchurch, we go first to the International Antarctic Centre where you’ll have the option to learn more about the frozen continent and even undertake a Hagglund Ride, before travelling into the centre of the ‘Garden City’.
Approximate arrival time into Christchurch is 12.30pm or 3.00pm if visiting the Antarctic Centre.
Sector TA12: CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA
Upon leaving the Garden City this morning, we follow the rugged coastline up to Kaikoura, stopping enroute to visit a seal colony. The coach will arrive in the Green Globe community of Kaikoura in time to experience the lifetime thrill of whale watching or dolphin swimming – don’t miss out! Back on land, try some fresh Crayfish or indulge in a traditional New Zealand fish & chip dinner here, voted one of the best places to do so!
Approximate arrival time in Kaikoura is 12.00pm
Sector TA13: KAIKOURA - PICTON - WELLINGTON
A slightly more leisurely departure time this morning so enjoy a lie in! We keep following the coast north, travelling through famous hilly pastures and wine country of Marlborough to Picton in time to catch the early afternoon ferry across to Wellington.
Approximate arrival time in Wellington is 4.30pm
Sector TA14: WELLINGTON - NAPIER
The first stop this morning is Mt Bruce Wildlife Centre where you get the opportunity to view the Kiwi and Tuatara, two animals you can’t see anywhere else in the world. You arrive into Napier in the early afternoon. The town was destroyed in an earthquake in the 1930’s and re-built in ‘ Art Deco’ style. This afternoon there is a walking trail you could go on to checkout some of the fabulous buildings, or other possibilities include a wine tour, or take a trip to a local gannet colony.
Approximate arrival into Napier is 3.30pm
Sector TA15: NAPIER - MOUNT MAUNGANUI
Just north of Napier today, you have the opportunity to jump off and overnight at a wilderness stop to experience relaxation and adventure at its best – a place to really get back to nature. We continue on to the lakeside town of Taupo and then arrive in Rotorua where you have time to explore some of the town before you have the chance to get wet and wild in a Zorb at the Agrodome. For those of you passing through for the first time, we strongly recommend at least one night in each town. Leaving Rotorua behind, the coach will then carry on to the chilled out beach town of Mt Maunganui (world famous for surfing) arriving late afternoon. Many of our passengers like to stay a couple of days here to either relax or try some of the many beach activities including learning to surf, whilst allowing the ocean and salt air to work their MAGIC.
Approximate arrival into Mount Maunganui is 5.00pm.
Sector TA16: MOUNT MAUNGANUI - AUCKLAND
Today you travel through some unique towns. Waihi first which was home to a gold rush and then Paeroa whose claim to fame is a giant Lemon and Paeroa drink bottle. Be sure to grab a bottle of this to try as it’s a kiwi icon.
Sector Question?: CONTACT US
If you have any questions about NZVentures or this tour then please don't hesitate to contact us at info@nzventures.travel
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