CHECK DATES & BOOK INCLUSIONS ULTIMATE NEW ZEALAND 21 DAY/ 20 NIGHT GROUP TOUR | AUCKLAND TO CHRISTCHURCH newzealandgrouptour
PRICES START FROM:
EUR GBP AUD
€3100 £2600 $4999

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a $200 flexible deposit. Find out more here.

 21 DAY / 20 NIGHT

Ultimate New Zealand

GROUP TOUR | AUCKLAND TO CHRISTCHURCH
4.8 Stars - based on 2592 ULTIMATE traveller reviews
EUR GBP AUD
€3100 £2600 $4999

Secure your tour date with a $200 fully flexible deposit. Find out more here.

CHECK DATES & BOOK

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Experience the very best of New Zealand on this beautiful and action packed group tour. Our 21 day / 20 night ULTIMATE New Zealand tour explores both the secluded beaches, volcanic springs and traditional culture of the North Island. Then the scenic glaciers, soaring mountains and backpacker energy of the South Island. You’ll be travelling with like-minded 18-35 year old backpackers from all over the world!

Ultimate New Zealand Maps North and South Island Map Travel Bus Pass

> 21 DAY SMALL GROUP TOUR

Experience the very best of New Zealand on this beautiful and action packed group tour. Our 21 day / 20 night ULTIMATE New Zealand tour explores both the secluded beaches, volcanic springs and traditional culture of the North Island. Then the scenic glaciers, soaring mountains and backpacker energy of the South Island. You’ll be travelling with like-minded 18-35 year old backpackers from all over the world!

MILFORD SOUND

Day trip to 8th wonder of the world.

BREAKFAST INCLUDED

20 tasty breakfasts included.

EXPERIENCE

Group Leader leading your trip from Auckland to Christchurch

TRANSPORT

Scania coaches. Reclining Seats. Entertainment

ITINERARY

Fast Pace 3 week adventure with 14 itinerary stops.

WHERE WE STAY

Flashpacker. 4-6 Bed Dorms. Upgrades available.

Ultimate New Zealand Maps North and South Island Map Travel Bus Pass
INCLUSIONS
TOUR INFORMATION
WHO THIS TRIP IS FOR
BOOKING INFORMATION
INCLUSIONS

 

20 nights dorm room accommodation

We stay flashpacker hostels in 4-6 bed mixed dorms

Some Meals Included

20 tasty breakfasts included and 2 dinners

Ferry Transport

Ferry ticket between North and South Island included

Fully Guided

Local and knowledgable Kiwi Experience Guide will be with you every step of the way!

 

 

 

 

 

Waitomo Cave Tour

Day trip to the glow water caves for a Black Water Rafting activity

Te Pā Tū Village Experience

Learn about Maori history and culture while enjoying a traditional feast and accomodation for the night

Milford Sound Tour

Day trip to the undisputed 8th natural wonder of the world

Travel Buddies

This is a backpacker group tour so you'll be travelling with like-minded people from all over the globe

 

Franz Josef Scenic Railway

Travel the Southern Alps from Franz Josef to Christchurch by this world-famous scenic railway

Spa Experience

Enjoy Hells Gate in Rotorua, the world's most unique geothermal spa

Packed Itinerary 

Discover all the NZ hotspots with an itinerary including 14 different spots

Optional Extras

Opportunites to book optional activities and day trips in each stop

Please note most meals are NOT included in this package.

TOUR INFORMATION

Arriving into NZ:

We recommend flying into Auckland as this is where the tour departs. Let us know if you need any nights in Auckland pre-tour!

 

Tour Start Time:

Your tour starts at 7pm in Day 1 with a welcome evening to meet your guide and fellow travel buddies

 

Before the Tour:

Before the tour, make sure you have the necessary travel insurance to travel to New Zealand. You will need a tourism visas in New Zealand will need to have this organised before you arrive. Luckily, many nationalities are able to visit New Zealand for less than 3 months without a visa. However, if you are not from one of these countries, obtaining your own visa is your own responsibility

 

Room + Tour Upgrades

You will be accomodated in dorm rooms throughout your stay however you can opt to upgrade to private/double rooms at an extra cost

 

WHO THIS TRIP IS FOR

This New Zealand group tour is designed for solo travellers and all backpackers aged 18-35 years old. This group tour is designed to enjoy the beauty of New Zealand and meeting tonnes of amazing people. Whether it's enjoying the scenery, getting your adrenaline pumping or the party lifestyle - This New Zealand Group Tour is perfect for you!

 

Our accommodation has been selected with comfort in mind. All accommodation is dorm in well regarded hostels. 

 

BOOKING INFORMATION

To book this New Zealand tour, select your chosen departure date.

 

Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit.

  • Book your flights into Auckland Airport (not included)
  • Organise your travel insurance (not included)

 

TOUR INFORMATION

Tour starts at with a welcome evening in Auckland.
Tour ends back in Christchurch, transport back to Auckland can be organised at an extra cost.

 

EXTRAS

Our partner supplier Kiwi Experience will organise any optional extras with you, should you wish to add any on.

TOUR INCLUSIONS
TOUR INFORMATION
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR
BOOKING INFORMATION
TOUR INCLUSIONS
  • 20 nights in dorm accommodation
  • Some Meals Included
  • Ferry Transport
  • Fully Guided
  • Waitomo Cave Tour
  • Te Pā Tū Village Experience
  • Milford Sound Day Tip
  • Franz Josef Scenic Railway
  • Rotorua Geothermal Spa Experience
  • Group Tour

Please note most meals are NOT included in this package.

TOUR INFORMATION

Arriving into NZ:

We recommend flying into Auckland as this is where the tour departs. Let us know if you need any nights in Auckland pre-tour!

 

Tour Start Time:

Your tour starts at 7pm in Day 1 with a welcome evening to meet your guide and fellow travel buddies

 

Before the Tour:

Before the tour, make sure you have the necessary travel insurance to travel to New Zealand. You will need a tourism visas in New Zealand will need to have this organised before you arrive. Luckily, many nationalities are able to visit New Zealand for less than 3 months without a visa. However, if you are not from one of these countries, obtaining your own visa is your own responsibility

 

Room + Tour Upgrades

You will be accomodated in dorm rooms throughout your stay however you can opt to upgrade to private/double rooms at an extra cost

 

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR

This New Zealand group tour is designed for solo travellers and all backpackers aged 18-35 years old. This group tour is designed to enjoy the beauty of New Zealand and meeting tonnes of amazing people. Whether it's enjoying the scenery, getting your adrenaline pumping or the party lifestyle - This New Zealand Group Tour is perfect for you!

 

Our accommodation has been selected with comfort in mind. All accommodation is dorm in well regarded hostels. 

 

BOOKING INFORMATION

To book this New Zealand tour, select your chosen departure date.

 

Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit.

  • Book your flights into Auckland Airport (not included)
  • Organise your travel insurance (not included)

 

TOUR INFORMATION

Tour starts at with a welcome evening in Auckland.
Tour ends back in Christchurch, transport back to Auckland can be organised at an extra cost.

 

EXTRAS

Our partner supplier Kiwi Experience will organise any optional extras with you, should you wish to add any on.

> WHERE WE GO

DAY 1 WELCOME TO AUCKLAND

Kia Ora! Welcome to Auckland, where your New Zealand Experience will begin! Today is all about getting settle and finding your barings in NZ’s largest and most heavily populated city. Stroll along the Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter and check out Auckland’s incredible art scene. Ride to the top of the iconic Sky Tower and enjoy the 360 degree views. Check into your hostel around 2pm and then your tour will officially start at 7pm that evening with a meet and greet with your guide, then a welcome evening getting to know your fellow travellers.

Accomodation: Lylo Auckland (or similar)

 

DAY 2 AUCKLAND TO HOT WATER BEACH

Depart Auckland and head south to the Coromandel Peninsula, known for its volcanic springs and pristine beaches. Stop at Cathedral Cove, where you’ll have the option to relax and have some free time on this incredible beach or opt for a Kayak Adventure through the cove (optional extra.) That evening you’ll arrive at Hot Water Beach, a natural geothermal hotspot where you can create your very own natural spa. Simply did a hole and watch it fill with hot water and relax, watching the sunset.

Accomodation: Hahei Beach Resort (or similar)

 

DAY 3 HOT WATER BEACH TO WAITOMO

Head further south today stopping at Karangahake Gorge for a pic before your journey to Waitomo. In Maori, ‘Wai’ means water and ‘Tomo’ means hole and this is the home of caves and glow worms as well as being rich in Maori culture and history. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the glow worm caves and incredible cave formations and even opt to upgarde for the Black Water Rafting where you explore the underground waterfalls and streams if you wish!

Accomodation: Waitomo Chalets (or similar)

 

DAY 4 WAITOMO TO ROTORUA

Take a morning stroll around the Ruakuri reserve before heading to Rotorua. On the way you will stop at Hobbiton for a guided walk through the iconic and world famous Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. If you’re a true fan you can opt for the Behind the Scenes tour for an extra cost! Then you’ll head to the geothermal centre of Rotorua, the home of volcanic hot springs for a free evening to chill or explore the vibrant nightlife.

Accomodation: Rock Solid Backpackers (or similar)

 

DAY 5 ROTORUA (FREE DAY)

Today is a free day to do what you please in Rotorua. Check out the geothermal spa’s (at yout own cost) which feature hot tubs filled with natural hot water from the volcanic hot springs. If you fancy an activity, you can book a zorbing excursion.

Tonight you have a traditional Maori village experience at Te Pā Tū. You’ll learn about all the history, culture and traditions of this unique civilisation as well as tucking into a feast and having accomodation for the night in a traditional sleeping house!

Accomodation: Te Pā Tū Māori (or similar)

 

DAY 6-7 ROTORUA TO LAKE TAUPO/FREE DAY

Learn about New Zealand’s natopnal bird at the Kiwi Hatchery – with the chance to see newly hatched chicks! Then head to Hells Gate which is NZ’s largest natural geothermal spa. You’ll then continute to town of Taupo, home to the North Island’s largest water reserve, a lake formed from a volcanic eruption. This afternoon or on a free day tomorrow you’re spoilt for choice for optional activities; choose between a sailing adventure across the lake or even jump out of a plane for a 16,000 feet skydive!

Accomodation: Lakefront Lodge (or similar)

 

DAY 8 LAKE TAUPO TO RIVER VALLEY

Located in the centre of the North Island, River Valley is where you can start to get your adrenaline pumping! You can decide to include the OG of White Water Rafting down the Rangitikei River or just simply relax by the river side instead. Otherwise you can opt for Horse riding adventure or hire an e-bike to discover this beautiful area.

Tongiht you will joy an included and delicious Farm-To-Table meal freshly prepared by a local chef.

Accomodation: River Valley Lodge (or similar)

 

DAY 9-10 RIVER VALLEY TO WELLINGTON

You’ll head south to New Zealand’s vibrant and arty capital city. Today you will overlook the city from Mount Victoria scene as well as the Te Papa museum to learn about NZ’s unique history and the battle of Gallipoli. Tonight you will experience the centre of the art, restaurant and nightlife and explore the hidden bars and quirky side-streets of Wellington. Day 10 is a free day.

Accomodation: Ibis Wellington (or similar)

 

DAY 11 WELLINGTON TO KAIKOURA

This morning marks the end of your North Island journey – now time to head south! A short journey to the ferry terminal to board the boat for 4 hour trip across the Cook Strait. (You’re ferry ticket is included) Once docked on the South Island you’ll drive towards Kaikoura through the Marlborough, the home of New Zealand’s booming Wine and Gin distilleries. This arvo you have a wine and gin tasting included for you to enjoy the range of flavours, then youll carry on to the small coastal town of Kaikoura. You then have an evening visit to the Seal Colony included to witness hundreds of native seals. If that’s not enough – you can book an optional Whale Watching adventure!

Accomodation: Dusky Lodge (or similar)

 

DAY 12 KAIKOURA TO CHRISTCHURCH

After a relaxed morning and well deserved sleep in, hit the road to the capital of the South – Christchurch whilst stopping a the infamous Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway on the way! Then, after arriving in Christchurch and checking in to your accomodation, you have free time to enjoy the vibrant city of Christchurch and it’s hidden treasures like the coffee, street art and international cuisine. Check out the Botanical Gardens too!

Accomodation: Hotel Give (or similar)

 

DAY 13 CHRISTCHURCH TO LAKE TEKAPO

Head south west through MacKenzie country, stopping at one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots – the Church of the Good Shepherd. Tongiht you’ll soak in the skyline and star gaze at the world’s largest dark sky reserve, unoffically the best in the world!

Accomodation: Lakes Edge (or similar)

 

DAY 14 MOUNT COOK DAY TRIP

A trip to New Zealand’s tallest mountain cruising past Lake Pukaki which because of the turquoise colour and still nature is nicknamed the ‘Powerade Factory.’ Then at the mountain you’ll enjoy scenic hikes in the National Park. If you’re looking for something more you can upgrade to a Tasman Glacier by Helicopter tour or even a skydive!

Accomodation: Lakes Edge (or similar)

 

DAY 15 LAKE TEKAPO TO QUEENSTOWN

Head to the backpacker and adrenaline capital of New Zealand – Queenstown! On the journey you’ll stop at the Kawarau Bridge which is the world’s first commercial bungy jump. For an extra cost you can choose to get the blood pumping and take a leap! Once checking into Nomads Queenstown, which is a apes ski style hostel with a sauna, you can take a grab a bite by the ideallic waterfront and if you fancy a party vibe book on to the Kiwi Bar Crawl for an extra cost – a great way to explore Queenstown and meet new people!

Accomodation: Nomads Queenstown

 

DAY 16 QUEENSTOWN FREE DAY

A free day in Queenstown is a chance to tick off some once in lifetime opportunities off your bucket list! Whether it’s a 15,000ft Skydive, Shotover Jet, Giant Swing or the Nevis Bungy Jump (world’s tallest bungy – with staggeting 7 seconds of free fall!)

*All at extra cost

Accomodation: Nomads Queenstown

 

DAY 17 MILFORD SOUND DAY TOUR

Enjoy a day trip to the undisputed 8th wonder of the world! Starting and ending in Queenstown, you can experience an unforgettable boat cruise through the Milford Sound taking in the landscapes, towering waterfalls and mountains.

Accomodation: Nomads Queenstown

 

DAY 18 QUEENSTOWN TO LAKE HAWEA

Bid farewell to Queenstown and head to Lake Hawea, on the way stop by that Wanaka Tree for a pic – a suspended tree in the middle of the Wanaka Lake. In the afternoon you have the option of completing the Roys Peak track, a 5-6 hour hike with breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka, or the Mount Iron track.

Accomodation: Hawea Hotel

 

DAY 19-20 LAKE HAWEA TO FRANZ JOSEF

Today starts with a refreshing morning walk through the forest and beside the Blue Pools – an amazing photo opp! Afterwards cruise down to Franz Josef, home of New Zealand’s largest glacier for a few days at a Rainforest Retreat.

Accomodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

DAY 21 FRANZ JOSEF TO CHRISTCHURCH/TOUR END

The last day of your New Zealand Adventure will have you travelling from coast to coast over the Southern Alps on the included and world-famous Tranzalpine Train. You’ll arrive back in Christchurch mid-afteroon where it’s time to bid farewell to your tour guide and travel buddies after an action-packed and fun-filled 3 weeks! If you require hostel accomodation tonight in Christchurch then speak to our res team.

Accomodation: Not Included

 

> WHERE WE STAY

The New Zealand Group tour includes 20 nights accommodation in dorm room accommodation. We partner with well reviewed properties in the areas we visit! You can be assured that after a adventurous day exploring, a comfortable bed is waiting.  Your accommodation features

  • Dorm Rooms
  • Upgrades to Private Single Rooms available at the booking process*
  • Breakfast included in every stop
  • Free WIFI available
  • Accomodation is a mixture of hostles, lodges, cabins and unqiue retreats
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> BOOK TOUR

  • MAKING YOUR BOOKING

    To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email. If you have a travel date in mind but you’re not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $200 deposit. We’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.  Your final payment is due 45 days before your tour date. A non refundable 3.5% booking processing fee applies to each booking.

  • BOOK OPEN DATED

    Book open dated when you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked an open dated tour, you can book on to any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. Book open dated here.

  • MEETING OTHER TRAVELLERS

    Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates! Join the conversation here.

  • BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

    Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date. Date changes are permitted without additional change fees up until 30 days before your scheduled tour date! Check out our full booking policy here.

> TOUR FAQS

WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?
WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?
WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?
CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY AND WILL I NEED CASH?
ARE THERE MEALS INCLUDED?
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO NEW ZEALAND?
WHAT IF I HAVE DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
HOW DO I BOOK OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES?
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
WILL I NEED ID & WHAT IS THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE?
WHAT IF I AM TRAVELLING WITH SOMEONE ELSE?
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON MY TOUR?
WHERE DOES THE TOUR START AND FINISH?

The 21 Day New Zealand Group tour starts in Auckland and ends in Christchurch. 

WHO WILL I BE TRAVELLING WITH?

You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-35 year olds from all over the world, this is a fully guided tour!

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

You’ll be staying in dorm rooms throughout your New Zealand Group tour in 4-6 bed accomodation.

CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?

Sure! We recommend searching and comparing flight prices using Skyscanner.com – get a flight quote.

Find the best insurance policy for your Ultimate adventure with the help of our recommended travel insurance provider.

WHAT IS THE CURRENCY AND WILL I NEED CASH?

The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar. Everywhere you will be staying accepts card so you don't neccessarily need to withdraw any cash.

ARE THERE MEALS INCLUDED?

Mostly, no. However you do have 20 breakfasts and 2 group dinners included.

DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO NEW ZEALAND?

Most nations do not require ano officak visa to enter New Zealand, however some do. If you are from the UK or most other European countries you require an NZETA which is a Visa Waiver Visitor Visa. This needs be applied for and granted before arrival and costs around $50NZD to complete. This grants unlimited access to NZ for 3-6 months but has no working rights.

 

For information, or to apply visit here

WHAT IF I HAVE DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Make sure to include any dietaries when you book. Vegetarian, vegan and GF options are available for the breakfasts and meals included

HOW DO I BOOK OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES?

After you book with Ultimate, our partner supplier Kiwi Experience will get in touch with a link to your Trip Planner where you can book and pre-pay for these.

HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?

We recommend budgeting around $50-75 NZD per day for food, drink and any other amenities. Also make sure you have enough cash should you want to book some last minute activities!

WILL I NEED ID & WHAT IS THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE?

The legal drinking age in NZ is 18 years old. You will need ID to be served and please be aware most placed do not accept international driving licenses therefore you will need your passport. 

WHAT IF I AM TRAVELLING WITH SOMEONE ELSE?

More the merrier! Book together and our supplier will do their best to put you together or book seperately and make sure you tell us beforehand!

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON MY TOUR?

Anywhere between 10-24 backpackers exploring the world just like you!

 

We’re here to help

 with your travel plans!

We are Group Adventure and Gap Year specialists and can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.

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