NEW ZEALAND

Which New Zealand Trip Should I Choose?

From Maori culture to hiking across the South and North islands—compare our trips!

The main difference between our three New Zealand itineraries is the regions they explore: the South Island (Ultimate South Island), the North Island (Hidden Treasures of the Far North), or both islands on one trip (Hiker’s Journey to New Zealand). Each of these adventures offers a variety of wonderful hikes interspersed with local cultural experiences.

If you’re looking for a true trekking adventure across both the north and south islands

Hiker’s Journey to New Zealand

We’ve designed our New Zealand itineraries to capture the best of what each region of the country has to offer. The 12-day Hiker’s Journey to New Zealand is our most comprehensive, traversing both the South Island and North Island along the most spectacular sections of the country’s crowning jewel: the 1,900-mile-long Te Araroa Trail. If you’re looking for a challenge, the active adventure (rated Level 4 on the WT scale) takes you from the epic volcanic landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the lush coastal forest of Queen Charlotte Track. Our non-hiking days on this trip are just as fantastic (think swimming with dolphins off the Kaikoura Coast and jet-boating along the gorgeous Whanganui River!)

If you want to go from snow-capped Alps to golden beaches

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island

Our Ultimate South Island journey is an epic adventure for more moderate hikers. With big days on four of the country’s Great Walks, there’s plenty of hiking across soaring landscapes, but also more diverse experiences including sea-kayaking in the marine paradise of Abel Tasman National Park and an overnight cruise in iconic Milford Sound. Those looking to experience both islands, plus more challenging hikes, and a bit of Maori culture can add on our popular five-day pre- or post-trip extension to Auckland and the Islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

If you want a South Pacific experience seeped in Maori culture

Hidden Treasures of the Far North

On New Zealand: Hidden Treasures of the Far North, the thriving Maori culture, a distinct South Pacific character, and incredible coastal landscapes are the focus. Unlike our far-ranging Ultimate South Island itinerary, the North Island trip is an in-depth exploration of the northernmost point of the North Island, with its unique volcanic terrain, off-shore islands, and sacred Maori sites. “This trip is great for travelers who want to visit New Zealand but take it a bit easier, or for those who want to mix a truly authentic experience with pre- or post-trip adventures from Auckland on their own,” says New Zealand Area Manager Lisa Laferte.

Hiker’s Journey to New Zealand

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The best hikes on New Zealand's Te Araroa trail on the North Island and South Island, with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Kapiti Coast, and Queen Charlotte Track, plus wine tasting and snorkeling with dolphins.

Activities

Walking Hiking / Trekking

Trip Length

12 Days

Trip Level

Level 4

Cost

From $8,595

Highlights

Hike the epic volcanic landscape of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Snorkel with dolphins on the Kaikoura Coast
Walk the tranquil paths of the lush Queen Charlotte Track
Climb the Stairway to Heaven for high panoramas over the Kapiti Coast
Jetboat on the Whanganui River, with optional canoeing
Taste New Zealand's best cuisines and wines

Lodging

11 nights hotels and lodges

Meals

All meals included except 1 dinner

Departures

Jan 19-30, 2025

Feb 16-27, 2025

Mar 16-27, 2025

Nov 12-23, 2025

Jan 7-18, 2026

Feb 4-15, 2026

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island

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Hike New Zealand's Great Walks, from Routeburn to Rakiura, Kepler, and Abel Tasman, cruise Milford Sound, go sea kayaking, taste the local wines, enjoy Kiwi culture