Compared with their enormous western neighbour, the islands of New Zealand don’t look especially big on the map, but don’t let their small stature deceive you. There is much, much, much to do here, be it biking to old gold mining sites, kayaking remote coves and hiking some of the most breathtaking routes in the whole world. But if you’re short on travel dollars, fear not; this trip squeezes in the very best of both the North and South Islands into an affordable, action-packed 21-day itinerary that moves swiftly without ever seeming rushed.
What’s Included
Visit to a conservation farm (Raglan). Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan). Surf lesson (Raglan). Maori cultural experience. Tongariro Alpine Crossing (seasonal). Te Papa Museum (Wellington). Abel Tasman National Park. Visit to a seal colony. Walks in Franz Josef National Park. Sea kayaking into Doubtful Sound. Mountain biking excursion (Central Otago). Orientation walks in Wellington and Christchurch.
20 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 9 dinners. (Allow NZD200-250 for meals not included.)
Hostels (8 nts), basic hotel (4 nts), basic lodges (7 nts), floating boat hostel (1 nt, summer, cabin in winter months). Most nights are multi-share.
Private bus, kayak, boat, ferry
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
Small group experience; Max 20, avg 16