Top & Tail

Time to greet the day and begin your adventure! Depart vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) at midday and make your way north toward picturesque Paihia. On the way, enjoy a lunch stop in Wellsford before heading to Whangārei Falls, where nature’s beauty puts on a show. By late afternoon, you'll arrive in the Bay of Islands, a subtropical gem brimming with history and natural splendour.

This breathtaking region features 144 stunning islands, pristine beaches, and a legacy woven deep into Aotearoa’s past. Be sure to visit Waitangi, the legendary site where the nation’s story began. If you are more of a water lover, the options for adventure are endless. Set off on a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock and uncover secret coves and island hideaways. Keep a lookout for the marine life dancing beneath the waves. Prefer a more hands-on thrill? Try your hand at sailing, fishing, diving, or parasailing. Or just kick back, dig your toes into golden sands, and soak up the serenity.

Included Scenic Walk: Whangarei Falls

Thinking about soaking up the coastal charm of the Bay of Islands? There’s no shortage of options. You might begin with a serene ferry ride to Otehei Bay, with its pristine waters and secluded feel. If you're up for adventure, a cruise to the majestic Hole in the Rock could be on the cards - plus, there's always the chance of spotting dolphins. For a cultural touch, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds invite deeper exploration into Aotearoa’s past. Those seeking outdoor thrills might consider a scenic horse trek along the coastline. Tonight, an Evening Sundowner Cruise promises a stunning farewell to the day.

Early this morning we head back to Auckland. On the way we will stop in at Waipu, a small coastal beach town good for surfing, home to cafes and local bars and restaurants. Our stop here is brief, the perfect place to grab a coffee and some food to fuel you for the adventure awaiting in Auckland. From island escapes to cultural discoveries or even just soaking in the skyline, the rest of the day is yours to play with. No pressure, just potential.

Bid farewell to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) as your journey takes you southeast to the sun-kissed shores of the Coromandel Peninsula, a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches, dramatic coastline, and laid-back charm.

Enjoy the opportunity to kayak along crystal-clear waters en route to the iconic Cathedral Cove, a natural masterpiece carved by the sea. Then, tap into nature’s geothermal magic at Hot Water Beach, where, if you time it just right, you can dig your own personal spa pool and soak in naturally heated mineral water beneath the sand. As the day winds down, rest and recharge before diving into the adventures still to come.

Included Experience: Hot Water Beach Visit
A New Zealand local holiday hot spot the stunning Hot Water Beach is a truly unique experience. Dig yourself a hole and bathe in your own spa pool in the golden sands of the beach.Also known as Te Puia, which means “hot springs” in Maori, digging two hours either side of low-tide, is when the water level is low enough to expose the area of sand with hot water underneath.The hot water comes from an underground river, which flows from the interior of the earth to surface in the Pacific Ocean at Hot Water Beach.
Included Scenic Walk: Cathedral Cove Walk

Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind we’ll venture into the enchanting Karangahake Gorge nestled among the Kaimai Ranges, for a hike (included) amongst the walkways and old mining tunnels. If that isn’t enough fun for one day, then never fear, next we’ll be heading over to Waitomo ('wai' meaning water, 'tomo' meaning hole) for a magical tour of the world-famous glow-worm caves. For those feeling a little more adventurous, you will have the opportunity to experience a Black Water Rafting trip.

Included Scenic Walk: Karangahake Gorge Windows Walk
To start your day off, your driver will go on a short walk with you to see the breath-taking Karangahake Gorge through an old gold mine and its tunnels. From the main carpark, it is easy to venture into the walkways and old tunnels, to discover the area's rich gold-mining history.
Included Scenic Walk: Ruakuri Bush Walk
Before leaving Waitomo, your Driver Guide will take you to the Ruakuri Reserve for a short walk on this beautiful loop track, through limestone outcrops, caves, tunnels, native forest and descends into the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel.

It's time to bid farewell to the glowing little critters. For those who wish to live out their Lord of the Rings fantasies, we will stop off at the enchanting village of Hobbiton, where the magic of the movies comes to life (optional extra). Next, we'll roll on to Rotorua, a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. You won’t get bored here; plenty of optional activities keep you busy. Take your pick from exhilarating White Water Rafting, thrilling experiences like Zip Lining across the top of the canopy, or exploring the area’s unique geothermal activity and natural hot springs. You can embrace our history and culture this evening with a 3-hour experience at the Mitai Māori Village (optional extra). Witness captivating stories unfold, be enchanted by performers, and satisfy your hunger with a traditional Māori feast.

Conveniently located in the centre of the North Island, Rotorua offers some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions and experiences. With geothermal wonders, refreshing spa offerings, pristine lakes, spectacular forests, fascinating Māori culture and an abundance of adventure activities. Today is the perfect day to get out and explore all of what it has to offer. Ride the rapids of the Kaituna river, take a piece of New Zealand home with you on a Mountain Jade Highlights tour or relax and unwind with the Wai Ariki restorative journey.

If you haven't had a chance yet to explore the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, we will check it out this morning before heading onto Lake Taupō, taking a walk to the pounding Huka Falls (included) first. In Taupō there is lots to do, just tell us what you’re in the mood for and we’ll get you there. The lake itself (actually an extinct volcano crater) is a sight to behold from the shoreline, but the more adventurous might want to take the opportunity to experience optional activities such as sailing across the lake on a yacht to the Māori rock carvings, or even get a birds-eye view by skydiving above it.

Included Scenic Walk: Redwoods Green Walk
Included Scenic Walk: Huka Falls Visit
The spectacular Huka Falls are New Zealand's most visited and photographed natural attraction. The thundering 11 metre high falls on the Waikato River pump a volume of 220,000 litres of water over the rock face every second. There are walking tracks and viewing platforms alongside the river, the perfect spot for a selfie.

We head south around the “great lake” towards the Tongariro National Park for a two-hour walk through native bush and waterfalls (summer time only). In the afternoon we travel to New Zealand's capital city Wellington. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion, and nightlife. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (free), or get amongst the thriving craft beer scene and Wellington nightlife.

Included Scenic Walk: Tongariro Nation Park Walk
The bus will only stop here for a walk during the New Zealand summer months.
Included Scenic Photo Stop: Taranaki Falls
Included Experience: Taihape Gumboot Throwing

We take the Interislander ferry across to the South Island through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. Travel through vineyards to Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city, then on to Kaiteriteri at the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Kaiteriteri is a great spot to begin an adventure (on foot, by kayak, or by water taxi) into Abel Tasman National Park, or see it all from above by jumping out of a plane!

Included Experience: Interisland Ferry - Return Journey
The most beautiful part of our State Highway. Venture across the Cook Strait to continue your Kiwi Experience on the South Island. Cruise from Wellington, New Zealand’s coolest little capital, to Picton in the amazing Marlborough Sounds. Known as ‘one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world’, the 92km voyage takes just 3.5 hours. Once on-board you will find extensive viewing decks, an on-board café and food court, a bar and lounge areas.

Spend the morning kayaking out to Split Apple Rock and along the golden bays near Kaiteriteri, looking out for the local marine wildlife; or catch a water taxi to one of the bays in the Abel Tasman National Park to go for a morning stroll in the native New Zealand forest. This afternoon we stop at the iconic Nelson Lakes, so you can get your legendary wharf jumping shot before hitting surf town Westport.

Included Scenic Photo Stop: Nelson Lakes Visit

*Lake Mahinapua is a seasonal location from mid- October - early May. When out of season, the bus will travel directly from Westport to Franz Josef.
Today, we start our journey down spectacular State Highway 6, which stretches 435 kilometres along the rugged Tasman shoreline. The road winds through diverse landscapes that never cease to amaze. Highlights today include the Cape Foulwind seal colony walk, rugged beaches, and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Tonight, you will stay at the historic Mahinapua Hotel, across the road from Lake Mahinapua and a short wander away from a rugged west coast beach. This location is unique to Kiwi Experience and allows you to bond with your bus mates over a meal.

Included Experience: Lake Mahinapua Costume Party
Included Scenic Walks: Cape Foulwind Seal Colony Walk
Your Driver Guide will drop you off at one end of this walkway for a change to stretch your legs. Along the way you will pass a seal colony, a lighthouse and beautiful panoramic views of mountains and coastline until you reach the other side where your Driver Guide will be waiting for you. Hop back on the bus and continue your journey!
Included Scenic Walks: Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Walk
The Pancake Rocks are a series of stratified limestone stacks which, over many thousands of years, have been eroded to resemble giant piles of neatly stacked pancakes. Another prominent feature is the blowholes. At high tide or in heavy weather, the blowholes explode with a spectacular spray.
Included Scenic Photo Stop: Irmahuwhero
Irimahuwhero is a scenic lookout located in New Zealand's South Island. It offers views as far as the eye can see of the Irimahuwhero Bay and surrounding coastline.

This morning it’s a short drive to Franz Josef. Franz Josef is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage area. The region includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mount Aspiring, the Fiordland National Parks, and surrounding conservation lands. We factor in a free day in Franz Josef so that you can get out there and experience what Franz Josef has to offer. It’s a wicked spot and whatever you get out and do, you will be blown away by the views of the glacier and Alps.

Today you have a free day in Franz Josef where you have the opportunity to experience the famous Franz Josef Glacier on a Heli Hike tour (at own cost), or on foot (for free) by hitting up the many walking trails in the area. Explore the Franz Josef wilderness further on a kayak tour amidst the serene waters and breathtaking scenery of Lake Mapourika, or simply unwind and relax in the Glacier Hot Pools.

Trade glaciers for lakes and rugged coastlines for alpine vistas as we journey from Franz Josef to Wanaka! We'll rumble south, conquering the mighty Haast Pass. We hug the shores of lakes, where the mountains reflect in the crystal-clear waters, before rolling into the lake side town of Wanaka. Get snap-happy at the iconic 'That Wanaka Tree,' stroll the vibrant lakefront, and dive into Wanaka's buzzing atmosphere. Feel like hopping off the bus and visiting in the winter months? Jump onto the ski fields and practice your best pizza in a pair of skis or glide down the mountains on a snowboard. The summer months in Wanaka boast a range of options including mountain biking, mountain carting or there are a range of day hikes in the area sure to impress. Whatever your time in Wanaka may present, the town has your vibe. Get ready for a blast of pure Kiwi scenery.

Included Scenic Walk: Thunder Creek Falls
Included Scenic Photo Stop: Fox Glacier Lookout
Included Scenic Photo Stop: Lake Matheson Mirror Lake
We stop at the stunning Lake Matheson for some photo moments, that will make everyone back home jealous! Capture the reflection of New Zealand's highest peaks - Aoraki (Mount Cook) and Mount Tasman. Your Driver Guide may decide to take you on the full loop walk or just to the viewing platform, depending on what is in store for your day.

Wake up to Wanaka's magic and choose your own adventure! Fancy a hike but also feel like heading to Queenstown today? Wake up early and tackle Roy's Peak for those iconic views. Early bird catches the worm right? Head back to Wanaka and grab a spot on the bus before roll on to Queenstown! We'll hug the shores of Lake Hawea, then wind through the dramatic Crown Range, snapping epic mountain panoramas. Arriving into Queenstown we will stop at the famous Kawarau Bridge where you can catch adrenaline thrills in action. The adventure is just getting started, Queenstown explodes with options! Get ready for adrenaline-pumping activities, vibrant nightlife, and scenery that'll blow your mind. Queenstown's got everything from bungy jumping and jet boating to scenic gondola rides and lakeside strolls.

Included Scenic Photo Stops: Kawarau Bridge Bungy Visit and Arrowntown Visit

Queenstown is one of the most amazing places on Earth. No matter what time of the year it is rated as one of our passenger’s favourite spots, and you'll get a minimum of two whole days here to explore everything it has to offer! Make the most of the beautiful lake and surrounding walks, or get into a whole range of adrenalin-pumping activities. If there was one activity that you couldn’t miss it would be the day trip to Milford Sound, commonly referred to as The Eighth Wonder of the World.

A Journey into Fiordland's Heart. Set within 1.2 million hectares of UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness and tucked at the end of the breathtaking Milford Road, Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is the crown jewel of Fiordland, an awe-inspiring blend of rugged peaks, waterfalls, and tranquil waters.

Your day begins with an early departure from Queenstown. The first pause is in the charming lakeside town of Te Anau, perfect for coffee, breakfast, or a quick bite. From there, the journey winds through alpine landscapes to the Homer Tunnel, with plenty of scenic stops to snap a photo (or three) along the way. Once in Milford, embark on a scenic boat cruise beneath the towering presence of Rahotu/Mitre Peak. Stretching 16 kilometres to the Tasman Sea, this dramatic glacial fiord is alive with marine wonders. Spot dolphins, seals, and penguins in their natural habitat, protected by the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve. You’ll also witness the rare spectacle of deep-water emergence, where deep-sea species thrive just below the surface, thanks to a unique layer of cool freshwater. As the day winds down, you’ll return to Queenstown carrying unforgettable memories and likely a full camera roll.

Included Experiences: Day Trip to Milford Sound and 2-hour Milford Sound Boat Cruise

We head out of Queenstown, through the Lindis Pass, so get your cameras ready because this is ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. After stopping to admire Mt Cook at Lake Pukaki, we travel to Lake Tekapo with its amazing location by snow-capped alps and clear starry skies. Lake Tekapo has something for everyone - relaxing at the lakeside and taking in the untouched view, soaking in the hot springs, discovering one of the many scenic walkways or checking out the mind-boggling stars in what is the world’s largest dark sky reserve.

Included Scenic Photo Stops: Church of the Good Shepherd Visit
Situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo amongst the natural beauty of the lake and the mountains, the Church of the Good Shepherd was built to the glory of God and as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country.
Included Scenic Photo Stops: Lake Pukaki Visit

We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand. Witness a city rebuilding and flourishing in the wake of the 2011 earthquakes, and explore the street art, see the blooming botanical gardens and learn about the history of a city that’s experienced so much in recent times.

There are limited departures available from May to September due to our winter schedule.