NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands
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Overview
Marvel at the unrivaled views of the snow-capped mountains on the New Zealand Tour and indulge in the brilliance of the beautiful bioluminescence of glowworms at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Go bungee jumping at Queenstown and encounter the magnificent whales and dolphins at the waters of Kaikoura. Set out on the Hobbiton Movie Tour and go kayaking at the Bay OF Islands.
Highlights
Visited Places:
• Auckland
• Rotorua
• Christchurch
• Queenstown
• Franz Josef
Travel Experience:
• Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea
• Hobbiton
• Glowworm Caves
• Maori culture
• Rotorua sightseeing tour
• Southern Alps
• Adventure capital – Queenstown
• Milford Sound Nature Cruise
• Adventure capital – Queenstown
• Walking / Hiking
• Franz Josef Glacier
• TranzAlpine scenic train
6 Reasons To Book This Trip
1. Affordable Adventure – Traveling with a like-minded group is not only fun but also it’s cost-effective instead of traveling solo.
2. Forget About The Planning – We take care of permits, transportation, and logistics, so all you have to do is show up.
3. Shared Photos – At the end of every trip we will have a google photo album where we share our wonderful tour pictures. We can also share to this website and multiply the memories!
4. Make New Friends – On every trip you will meet new people, it’s a good opportunity to make friends for your life while enjoying the group event.
5. Group Leader – Event organizer will be there every step of the way, making sure that the trip goes as smoothly as possible.
6. Unforgettable Memories – All events are designed keeping in mind to have an unforgettable memory of your lifetime.
Notes
Auckland
Christchurch
New Zealand
Flights
- Arrival: Day01 before 3pm
- Return: Day10 anytime after 12pm
FLY IN Airport: Auckland Airport (AKL)
FLY OUT Airport: Presidente Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
Meeting Point
- The group meets at the arrival airport or at the hotel on Day01.
- More details will be provided via group chat on WhatsApp
Availability
- Seat available till the booking is open!
- Balance due 2 months before the tour departure date!
* Minimum number of members requires for all group tour. Please confirm with the organizer before any flight booking!
Itinerary
Auckland

Description:
Auckland, New Zealand’s self-proclaimed “City of Sails” is the country’s largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests, and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city-savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or get out onto the water to experience the best views of the city.
Activities Included:
- Airport transfer
- Free day to explore the city
Optional Activities:
- Harbour Dinner Cruise – $100 pp
Accommodation:
- Hotel in Auckland
Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments or similar
Glowworm Caves - Hobbiton

Description:
Enjoy a full-day tour to Hobbiton before being captivated by the glowworms in Waitomo. Journey from Auckland through the lush farmland of the Waikato with commentary from your driver. Become immersed in The Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton movie set. Located just outside of the town of Matamata – in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region. You’ll be taken through Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill and the Party Tree with a guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and fascinating insight into the making of the films.
You then head to Waitomo to the Spellbound Glowworm Caves, where you will board a raft and glide gently downstream beneath a canopy of glowworms and marvel at their increasing brilliance as your eyes adjust to the darkness. See these intriguing creatures up close and marvel at their fascinating life.
Return transport is provided in a fleet of late-model Mercedes vans configured to give extra legroom and space.
Please wear comfortable walking shoes and a warm jacket for the Glowworm Caves guided tour.
Activities Included:
- Guided sightseeing
- Glowworm caves
- Hobbiton
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
- Hotel in Rotorua
Sudima Lake Rotorua or similar
Mitai Maori Village

Description:
Morning tour. You will be collected from your accommodation this morning between 08:00 and 08:30. Please wear suitable footwear.
See it all, the ultimate volcanic and geothermal Rotorua Tour. Learn about the huge colorful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes, and lush native forests. You’ll travel through forestry and farmland to NZ’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colorful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic valley where your guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush-covered, geothermal park.
This is about 4-hour long tour and a medium level of fitness is required.
Enter the world of Mitai and learn about the history of this area which once flourished in villages. See fierce warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-Whiro stream and the story of the migration of Tamatekapua of the Te Arawa canoe to Aotearoa and the Māori Pacifica connection told in dance form.
Join in this Maori and Island fusion extravaganza, including a feast for the ravenous. Your hāngī/umu earth oven food of Polynesia includes pork, chicken, taro, island-style potato salad, and much more. The hangi/umu is cooked in an earth oven, a hole 1-2m into the ground, and the baskets of kai (food) are placed on hot stones at the bottom of a hāngī pit. The kai is then covered to trap the heat, the steam and heat from heated hāngī stones infuse the kai with delicious earthy flavors while it cooks for 3-4 hours. Try the delicious tempting hula food of the Great Ocean of Kiwa.
Wear suitable clothing and comfortable walking shoes as some of this evening’s activities are outdoors.
Activities Included:
- Guided sightseeing in Rotorua
- Mitai Maori Village
Optional Activities:
- Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa – $40 pp
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodation:
- Hotel in Rotorua
Sudima Lake Rotorua or similar
Christchurch

Description:
Its time to say goodbye to North Island as today you will catch an early flight to Christchurch (South Island), on arrival you will be met by a driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.
The rest of the day is free to explore the city.
Activities Included:
- Airport transfer
- Flight to Christchurch (one way)
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
- Hotel Ibis in Christchurch
Christchurch - Queenstown

Description:
This tour starts in the stunning city of Christchurch. As you drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights. Departing Christchurch you will make your way through the impressive Canterbury plains with plenty of amazing New Zealand farmland and countryside to see along the way to Geraldine. Arriving in this quaint town you will stop for a quick morning tea. Exiting Geraldine you head towards the famous blue lakes of Lake Tekapo and as you come over the hill you will be stunned by amazing views of the lake. Once in the township of Tekapo, you will have time to explore the very popular Church of the Good Shepherd, see the Mackenzie sheepdog, and get those Instagram-worthy shots of Lake Tekapo before continuing on to Aoraki/Mount Cook. Turning west you begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki will begin to emerge in front of you. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. Stop for some amazing photos or just to marvel at the sight that you are beholding. While in the national park you have 2.5 hours of free time to enjoy free walks and hikes or one of the extra optional activities.
One recommendation during your free time is the Tasman Glacier Lake walk and viewpoint. Icebergs can usually be seen floating in the lake in summer, and in winter, the lake freezes over. The track leads through the glacier’s old terminal moraines with amazing views of the glacier, river and lake. Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, you should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself. At 3724m, Aoraki/Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatization whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level. Farewelling Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and making your way back to Queenstown you will stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand. From here you will be climbing in altitude, through the Lindis Pass, which has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps. Nearing Queenstown you then make your way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Sadly the tour must come to an end as you enter Queenstown and say your goodbyes.
Activities Included:
- Sightseeing on the way to Queenstown
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
-
Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar
Queenstown

Description:
Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. Although celebrated as New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders.
Suggested activities:
Go hiking – Queenstown Hill
The Queenstown Hill walk is one of the best short hikes around Queenstown. The name just says it all! To get to the top of Queenstown Hill you’ll need to climb 600 meters (2000 feet) over the 2.5 kilometers. The total hike time is around 2 hours depending on how much time you spend at the top enjoying the view.
Shotover Canyon River Jet Boat Adventure
Riding the iconic ‘Big Red’ Jet Boat through the narrow Shotover Canyon is an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Your skilled jet boat driver pushes the boat to 85 kph, skimming across shallow water and past towering canyon walls. This 25 minute white water ride includes 360 degree spins and maximum thrills.
Nevis Bungy Jump
The Nevis Bungy is New Zealand’s highest bungy at 134 metres and 8 1/2 seconds of freefall. Located in the Nevis Valley high above the Nevis River this is the ultimate adrenaline experience.
Shotover River White Water Rafting
The upper section of the Shotover River gives rafters time to practice their paddle techniques before they hit the whitewater of the lower Canyon. Paddle numerous rapids such as Rock Garden, Jaws,
TSS Earnslaw
A 1 ½ hour scenic cruise on board the coal fired vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. You will cruise from Queenstown Bay to Walter Peak High Country Farm (without going ashore) and return.
Activities Included:
- Free day to explore Queenstown
Optional Activities:
- Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride – $30 pp
- Shotover Canyon River Jet Boat Adventure – $105 pp
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
-
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Description:
Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with a 1 hour 40 minute Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown or Te Anau, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the modern, spacious vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforests, mountains, and wildlife. During the cruise, your friendly crew provides commentaries in several languages and points out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.
Please bring comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, and insect repellent.
Activities Included:
- Milford Sound Nature Cruise with return luxury coach transfers
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodation:
- Hotel in Queenstown
Franz Josef Glacier

Description:
Approximate arrival is 16:30 in Franz Josef where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.
From Queenstown to Franz Josef discover the wild beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast. Leaving Queenstown, travel by luxury coach through the stunning scenery of the South Island. Your driver guide will provide entertaining commentary and point out sites of interest as you pass by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Dunstan, Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. After a morning tea break in Makarora on the border of Mount Aspiring World Heritage Park, you’ll travel through the Haast Pass, journeying through native beech forest and over the Southern Alps, before emerging on the West Coast. This remote area has a ruggedly beautiful landscape of vast rainforests, gushing waterfalls and snow-capped mountains. Skirt the coast and see waves crashing on rocky beaches before returning inland. Before arriving in the afternoon at the small village of Franz Josef. From here you can explore the world famous Franz Josef Glacier.
You will be met at your accommodation by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and taken on a short tour to view the glacier. Your shuttle vehicle will transfer you up the Franz Josef valley to the road end. Here you will have the opportunity to walk to view the glacier from a viewing platform. Or enjoy one of the short walks available in this area. You will be returned to your accommodation by the Glacier Valley Shuttles.
Activities Included:
- Glacier Valley Shuttle
- Sightseeing on the way to Franz Josef
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
- Hotel in Franz Josef Glacier Village (Rainforest Retreat or similar)
TranzAlpine Scenic Train

Description:
Your coach is scheduled to arrive at Greymouth Train Station at 13:15.
On arrival, immediately check-in for your TranzAlpine Train journey to Christchurch.
This morning travel north through the small townships of Whataroa and Harihari. Stop at the Bushman’s Centre for refreshments and a chance to experience a bit of West Coast humour. Continue through the township of Ross, which in the late 1800s was the centre of one of New Zealand’s richest alluvial goldfields. In 1903 the largest gold nugget ever found in New Zealand was discovered at Jones Creek, not far from the town centre. It weighed 2807 grams. The New Zealand Government later purchased the nugget and presented it as a coronation gift to King George V. On arrival in Hokitika, there is time to purchase lunch and explore the town centre. Hokitika is the administrative and commercial centre for this part of Westland. The major primary industry is timber milling. Dairy and sheep farming, commercial fishing, white baiting and eel processing are the other major industries. Continue onto Greymouth Railway Station from where you catch the world-famous TranzAlpine train across the Southern Alps to Christchurch.
Your TranzAlpine train departs Greymouth Train Station at 14:05. Please check in at least 20 minutes before departure by presenting your reference number to the ticket office. You will receive your boarding pass and your suitcases (large bags) will be checked in.
Your train is scheduled to arrive at Christchurch Train Station at 18:30.
Considered one of the world’s great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You’ll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur’s Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.
You will be greeted upon arrival of the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train at 18:30 by a representative of Christchurch Touring and transferred to your accommodation.
Look out for a board displaying your name after disembarking from the train.
Activities Included:
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- Sightseeing half day on the way to Greymouth
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodation:
- Hotel Ibis in Christchurch
Christchurch

Description:
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers and the guide as the tour ends today with breakfast at the hotel. Check out is usually by 11am so book your return flight accordingly. Hoping that you have captured the best moments on camera and packed in a host of travel memories to carry back home with you.
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.
Activities Included:
- Airport transfer
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Combine this tour with Australia
Inclusions
Price Includes
- Airport pickup and transfers
- 9 Breakfast @ Hotels
- 1 Lunch
- 1 Dinner
- 9 nights of hotel accommodation
- One-way flight (Auckland – Christchurch)
- Transportation in A/C bus / Van (shared)
- Excursions and activities as per the itinerary
- Milford Sound Nature Cruise
- Glacier Valley Shuttle
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
Price Excludes
- International Flights
- Meals (other than mentioned above)
- Personal Expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Transfers other than mentioned in the Itinerary (available at extra cost)
- Travel insurance / Visa
NOTE: Some activities have a pickup/dropoff location that requires a 5 to 15 mins walk from the hotel accommodation. We do not offer transfers for a such short distances.
Tour Information
Country Guide
Route
FAQ
I'm a solo traveler, can I still join the tour?
Yes of course, As all our tours are for solo travelers. You will travel with like-minded and fun-loving people who like to explore new destinations and activities like yourself.
I want to join with my partner or friends; is it possible?
No condition for fun! You can always join the group tours with anyone by your side either your partner or a group of crazy friends. We make sure to arrange accommodation and all other activities accordingly. Do you want to know the lined-up list of tours; please check our tour finder section for more details.
I am travelling solo, do I have to pay single supplement?
No. All trip prices are based on double occupancy rooms. You will be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender to share the accommodation. If you enrolled with another person, you’ll room with that person. Although single supplement option is available if you prefer a room for yourself. If you are interested in a single room please select the single supplement package while booking.
What are the accommodation options?
We offer luxurious hotels, budgeted motels, spontaneous camps, handy lodges and every other possibility at your destination.
What is cancellation policy?
If you cancel your booking cancellation fees could apply. A cancellation will only be effective when we receive written confirmation of the cancellation. If you cancel a trip:
More than 60 days prior to departure you will receive a full refund less deposit amount
Between 45 to 60 days prior to departure we will retain the deposit or 50% of the amount paid (whichever is greater)
Less than 45 days prior to departure we receive the right to not refund any of the costs paid
Do I need a Travel Medical insurance?
Yes, Travel insurance is required for all international trips. Insurance covers (and reimburses you) for things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, and trip delay, lost or delayed baggage, medical coverage, medical evacuation, etc.
Reviews

- “
Truly one of the best trips I’ve ever had. It was my first time ever doing a solo trip. Himanshu gave us an itinerary and a list of good traveling tips for Egypt months in advance. He is very organized and responsive so I never had any concerns. Everything was already taken care of. All I had to do was show up. The scenes in Egypt were breathtaking and I saw places that I never thought I’d see.
James U CalizaireUnited States - “
Had a great time in Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. Land in Salt Lake City & the rest of the trip is taken care by BLGT.. you have absolutely nothing to worry about.. logistics, campsite booking, tickets, planning is all done by them. We had a great guide with us through out the trip. Would definitely be going with BLGT in future.
Priyanka RkUnited States - “
The trip was to the Galapagos and it was wonderful Quito was also a beautiful City.
Graciela MontaniUnited States - “
This was a trip of a lifetime, been wanting to do this for a long time. All planning done right and price was great can’t wait for my next trip, unfortunately I can only do one a year
SlatorvatorUnited States - “
Had a great experience through BLGT recently in Alaska; appreciated the trip leaders’ ability to handle logistics so you could focus on the experience and having fun. It was just like traveling with a group of friends, with the added bonus of the itinerary being all taken care of.
Asma MadadUnited States



















