Enter promo code EarlyBird to save 5% through October 15th

$4464 $4241

Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this program with a $350 deposit. Final payment is due 60 days before departure.

    Sorry, this program is full. Please provide your information below so that we can add you to our waiting list.

     







       



      The terms and conditions and cancellation policy for this New Zealand program are different from those of our standard programs. Please review these sections carefully to ensure you fully understand the specific requirements and rules that apply to this trip.

      Want the full experience Down Under? Consider our 29-day program that combines Australia and New Zealand.

      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 10/09/2025 - 10/23/2025

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 15 Days / 14 Nights

      Overview

      If you're looking for a warm winter travel destination, why not escape the winter blues and discover the wonder of New Zealand in the Southern Hemisphere? Gain insight into the Maori way of life through a visit to a traditional village, and then discover the adventure capital of Queenstown. With our carefully planned 15-day itinerary, you will be able to take in the must-see attractions of both the North and South Islands, making the most of your time in this extraordinary destination. Experience the best of New Zealand with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      This program has different terms and conditions than other GEEO programs. Please see the Details section for more information.

      What's Included:
      • Winery visit
      • Waitomo Glowworm Caves
      • Fiordland National Park visit with Doubtful Sound day cruise
      • Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park visit with hiking opportunity (weather permitting)
      • Free time in Rotorua, Wellington, Franz Josef, and Queenstown
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout, local guides
      • 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners – allow $515-670 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels/motels (14 nts)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by private vehicle and plane
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Arrive in Auckland at any time. Due to the potential for flight delays or cancellations, we recommend that you plan to arrive in New Zealand at least a day in advance. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference and overcome any jet lag. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Auckland before the trip. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another. Joining Instructions When you arrive at the airport, you can either take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the Auckland city center: By Taxi - $70-80 USD, approximately 30 minutes. By Shuttle Bus - $33 for 1 person, $8 per additional. The “Super Shuttle” is a 24-hour service that takes approximately 1 hour. The shuttle waits outside of the terminal and provides door-to-door service. By SkyDrive - $18 NZD (~$12 USD) per person. Leaves from outside the airport terminal every 10-15 minutes and takes approximately 1 hour and ends at Sky Tower, which is approximately 20 minutes from the hotel on foot. If you have much luggage, you may need to take a taxi from Sky Tower to the hotel – the Super Shuttle may be a better option.

      Drive to the lakeside town of Rotorua, situated over an active geothermal zone and known for its volcanic features and rich Maori heritage. Stop en route at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you enjoy a peaceful boat ride through 30-million-year-old caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves carved by rivers and time. Approximate travel time: 7-8 hrs by private vehicle

      Rotorua sits over an active volcano and is home to a number of amazing geothermal parks with bubbling mud pits and multi-colored pools. Opt to visit one of the sites, like Hell's Gate, or go whitewater rafting nearby. Visit the Mitai Maori Village and learn the story of Tamatekapua's migration to Aotearoa via the Te Arawa canoe and the Māori/Pasifika connection told in dance form. Enjoy a delicious Hangi meal, similar to a Hawaiian lūʻau, with dishes such as chicken, sweet potato (kumara), and lamb steamed over heated rocks.

      Pack a book and download your favorite podcasts in preparation for a long travel day on the North Island to the capital, Wellington. Approximate travel time: 7-8 hrs by private vehicle

      Take a brief orientation walk in Wellington with your tour leader. After the orientation walk, enjoy a free day to explore. Opt to take the cable car up to the botanical gardens or visit the Te Papa Museum, home to historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. Find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building to see how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes. If you opt for a guided tour of the Weta Workshop, you will get a unique behind-the-scenes look at how the workshop helps design some of the world’s biggest films. Get up close and personal with props from The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia.

      Fly from Wellington to Christchurch on the South Island, then travel by bus to Kaikoura, known for its diverse marine life. Approximate travel time: 1 hr by plane, 3 hrs by private vehicle

      During a free morning in Kaikoura, opt to follow in the path of Paikea, the Maori "whale rider," and head out to the open seas in search of Giant Sperm Whales as they spray and dive their way through the waters off Kaikora. Or search for wild dusky dolphins; depending on conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins. Next, travel to Hanmer Springs, stopping en route for a wine tasting at a local winery. Upon arrival in Hanmer Springs, opt to take a soak in the hot springs. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle

      Stretch out and enjoy the stunning scenery while traveling across the Southern Alps from Hanmer Springs to Franz Josef. The Southern Alps mountain range extends along much of the length of New Zealand's South Island. Franz Josef is in the rugged and remote West Coast, where you will stay in the rainforest near the world's fastest-moving glacier. The Māori refer to the area as Waiau. Approximate travel time: 8 hrs by private vehicle (including stops)

      There are plenty of optional activities in the area to suit just about any budget and preference. Feel free to relax, or try optional activities like heli hiking, glacier valley walking, quad biking, lake kayaking, or a hot pool visit. Your tour leader has more ideas if you need them. Just ask! During a helicopter hike, you can take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier, and then hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Or you can take a guided interpretive walk that follows ancient glacial pathways carved into the landscape by ice and water along the Franz Josef glacier's retreat. If you'd rather ride than walk or fly, a two-seater ATV quad bike is a great way to explore rainforests, riverbeds, grasslands, sand, and mud. You can also explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak; the lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago.

      Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. With beautiful scenery and tons of activities, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the great nightlife. Approximate travel time: 8-9 hrs by private vehicle

      During you free time in Queenstown, opt to go bungee jumping ("bungy" in New Zealand, its birthplace), jet boating (also born here!), skydiving, paragliding, hiking, or mountain biking. Or take it a little slower and travel by gondola to the top of a local peak. Opt to pre-book a Queenstown jet boating activity along the Shotover River ahead of time. Imagine a fast-paced whitewater ride with sharp turns and spins expertly navigated by a trained driver. Just email travel@geeo.org after booking to sign up. If you prefer a slower pace, discover the breathtaking Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a traditional steamship that was first launched in 1912. This 90-minute cruise highlights the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds Queenstown and lets you check out the views while relaxing on deck.

      Cruise through the stunning Doubtful Sound, one of the most untouched, remote places in the world. The only way to get here is by boat across Lake Manapouri, then bus across Wilmont Pass to Doubtful Sound. Marvel at the steep cliff walls and cascading waterfalls, and keep an eye out for area wildlife: dolphins, penguins, seals, and a variety of birds. This isolated part of New Zealand is truly a special place! Take in the waterfalls and wildlife, then return to Queenstown for the night. Approximate travel time: 6 hrs (Queenstown - Doubtful Sound round-trip) by private vehicle

      Head through the center of the South Island New Zealand's highest peak, Mt. Cook. Learn more about mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre. Aoraki/Mount Cook is both a village, a national park, and the name of New Zealand's highest mountain. Located in central South Island, the park includes a mix of rocks and glaciers, as well as alpine plants including the world's largest buttercup, the Mount Cook lily. There are several short hikes that offer spectacular views. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs by private vehicle

      Travel to the Garden City of Christchurch, a little piece of England in New Zealand, still recovering from a devastating earthquake. Once in Christchurch, take a brief orientation walk with your tour leader, and enjoy free time with your travel companions on your last night in New Zealand. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Christchurch at any time. If you wish to extend your stay in Christchurch, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can work with you to find a trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any additional tours that you book.


      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      The terms and conditions for our New Zealand program have earlier payment requirements than our standard programs. Here are our standard Terms and Conditions. For New Zealand, an initial deposit of $350 is collected upon registration, 50% of the remaining balance will be charged on April 12th, and the final balance will be charged on June 11th. There are also different cancelation terms for New Zealand, which can be seen below.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
      • If you cancel 181 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires.
      • If you cancel between 180 and 120 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 120 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Trip Notes
      1. Please note that some sites, museums, and restaurants may be closed over Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. It is recommended that you check the operating hours of any sites or establishments that you plan to visit to avoid disappointment. It is also common for prices for meals and other services to increase during peak tourist seasons or holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s. Additionally, we may need to alter the itinerary on and around these holidays to maximize your time during your trip. Hopefully, you will be able to experience some local customs and traditions and see how people in other parts of the world experience the holidays. Traveling over Christmas and New Year’s can allow you to see a destination in a different light. You may be able to attend local festivals, try traditional foods, see special decorations, and participate in cultural activities that can add an extra layer of festivity and cheer to your trip. Overall, traveling over the holidays can be a fun and rewarding way to learn about and experience another culture.
      2. Please note that the train on the south island is seasonal and does not run from May to September. Day 6 and 7 transportation will be a public bus during this time period instead of a train.
      3. Please be aware that wifi and internet access is not as readily available in New Zealand as in other parts of the world. There are often additional charges to connect to the internet, and speeds may be slower than what you are used to.
      4. Over public holidays in Australia and New Zealand (such as Christmas, New Year's Day, Easter, and Anzac Day) there may be some limitations of services and disruptions to schedules. In general, our tours still operate effectively over public holidays, but there may be closures of optional activities and restaurants, and slight itinerary adjustments in order to provide all tour inclusions.
      Group Leader Description
      All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Fitness Level
      This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go at your own pace. Getting on and off transport and walking with luggage requires some physical effort. Some optional tours may include hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room. Please note that if you have booked the My Own Room option, on Night 2 there may be shared facilities (cottage-style accommodation), but you will have your own room.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so that they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Office and after office hours emergency number From outside Australia: +64 27 535 0007 From within Australia: 0432 705 621 If for any reason you are unable to reach the G Adventures local office, please call the numbers listed below to connect with their Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Suggested Checklist
      • Raincoat and/or umbrella
      • Personal clothing for warm weather – we recommend packing 7-8 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry once
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Daypack
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun hat
      • Water bottle
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Toiletries – important: some hotels do not give you soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there, so don’t go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • Travel insurance ID card
      • Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit/debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered at some of our hotels for a charge, or ask your group leader where the nearest laundromat is located.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO trips require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double-check the information we provide below by searching here. As of October 1, 2019, U.S. citizens traveling to New Zealand need to apply for an e-Visa. Please see the US State Department entry, exit, & visa requirements for New Zealand and the New Zealand Embassy for detailed visa application instructions. GEEO travelers who are not U.S. citizens should check with their government to determine visa requirements.
      Money Exchange
      The local currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is not customary in New Zealand to tip service providers. Unless specifically asked to do so (by your tour leader), do not tip your local guides. At the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, you may consider a small tip – but it certainly isn’t expected.
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health (http://www.passporthealthusa.com/), which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available 60 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. We advise that you wait until this trip is confirmed before booking non-refundable and non-changeable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Auckland and ends in Christchurch. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Auckland. You may want to arrive in New Zealand one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Christchurch any time on the final day of the program, or stay later to see more of the city.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. New Zealand uses a Type I plug, which has 2 or three angled flat prongs so you will need a plug adaptor. The voltage is mostly 230V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Expectations
      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
      • The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury. Sometimes the accommodation is not air-conditioned.
      • We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      • You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
      • Many of our programs occur in locations where it is very hot during the day. Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks.
      • We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      • Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
      Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
      Weather
      New Zealand sees the arrival of cooler spring temperatures in October. The North Island, including places like Auckland, will have mild weather with occasional rain showers, while in the South Island temperatures can be cooler especially in mountainous areas like Fiordland National Park and Queenstown. Pack layers that include warm clothing, and be prepared for variable weather as you enjoy the beauty and outdoor adventures in this incredible country.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      Tour Company Fee
      See our price in the top right corner
      Optional Activities
      $100-600 USD, depending on how many optional activities you choose to do
      International Airfare from the United States
      Roughly $1,000-1,700 USD If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
      Airport Transfers
      $50-100 USD
      Insurance
      $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      Tipping
      Tipping is optional and not expected, but we recommend $40-50 for budgeting purposes.
      Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
      $300-600 USD
      Visa
      Approx. $47 for an NZeTA
      Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
      Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      Vaccines
      Variable. Please consult your doctor.
      Souvenirs
      Variable. At your personal discretion.
      Non-Educator Donation
      $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally, sometimes in the local currency, and you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      Auckland
      Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour): $230 USD per person As part of the boat crew, you'll work together with your teammates to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour in this competitive yacht. Either take the helm and participate or sit back and enjoy the spectacle - the choice is yours. Maritime Museum: 20 NZD per person Tour the museum’s seven galleries to learn more about New Zealand’s relationship with the sea. Be inspired by the country's most celebrated mariner, Sir Peter Blake, and his many accomplishments, and see maritime art that speaks to the sentiment of a nautical nation.
      Waiheke Island
      Waiheke Island Excursion: 45-130 NZD per person Take a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).
      Hahei
      Hahei Boat Cruise: 105 NZD per person Hop on board and cruise the coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Check out caves, and an impressive blowhole, and enjoy views of stunning Cathedral Cove from the water. Keep on the lookout for marine life such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds. Sea Kayaking: 135 NZD per person Head out by kayak to experience the Coromandel from sea level.
      Rotorua
      Whitewater Rafting: 109 NZD per person Get your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating white water rafting trip. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don't forget to paddle! Hot Springs: 30-50 NZD per person Soak tired muscles in the area's natural hot springs and let the mineral water work its magic. Rotorua is home to several amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters. Mountain Biking: 35-130 NZD per person Head out on an exhilarating cycling adventure. Explore the stunning Redwood Forest on two wheels on what some call the world's best mountain biking trails. Whether you're a beginner or an expert mountain bike enthusiast there's sure to be a trail perfect for you. Zorbing: 35-50 NZD per person Hop into a giant inflatable ball and take a thrilling ride down Mt Ngongotaha. This outrageously fun and bizarre ride is a must-do when in Rotorua, so don't miss out!
      Wellington
      Te Papa Museum: Free Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building. Wellington Cable Car: 4-7.50 NZD per person Zealandia: 9-95 NZD per person Martinborough Wine Tour: 199 NZD per person Weta Workshop Tour: 50-90 NZD per person This 2 to 3-hour guided tour will give you a unique behind-the-scenes look at how the Weta workshop helps craft and create the imaginary realities of some of the world’s biggest films. Get to see creativity in action as the workshop crew members practice their trade and get up close and personal with props from The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and so much more!
      Kaikoura
      Scenic Flight: 190 NZD per person Take a 30-minute flight and set off to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. On land, you'll see Maori sites, Kaikoura town, and New Zealand's southern fur seals. Hiking: Free Set off along one of many hiking trails to take in the beautiful scenery along the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway. Whale Watching: 145 NZD per person Follow in the path of Paikea, the Maori "whale rider", and set out in search of Giant Sperm Whales as they spray and dive their way through the waters off Kaikoura. Swimming With Dolphins: 220 NZD per person Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. Depending on the conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.
      Franz Josef
      Helicopter Hike: 589 NZD per person Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Cool! Ice Explorer Guided Hike (Heli Transfer): 670 NZD per person The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind! Kayaking: 99-129 NZD per person Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views. Hiking: Free) Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.
      Queenstown
      Gondola Ride: 35-56 NZD per person Take a ride up to the top of the mountain by cable car gondola. Get a spectacular 220º view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below. Bungee Jumping: 165-205 NZD per person Adrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort of solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss. Vineyard Tour: 185-230 NZD per person Visit vineyards in New Zealand's fastest-growing wine region. Taste some of Queenstown's finest Pinot Noir, as well as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, and learn more about the grape varietals that flourish here. Pick up a few bottles to savor back home. Ziptrek: 120-170 NZD per person Earnslaw Steamship Cruise: 55-95 NZD per person Discover the breathtaking Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a traditional steamship that was first launched in 1912. This 90-minute cruise highlights the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds Queenstown and lets you check out the views while relaxing on deck. Shotover Canyon Swing/Shotover Canyon Fox: 169-299 NZD per person Scenic Horse Riding Tour: 165-325 NZD per person Head out on a scenic horse ride and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the southwest of New Zealand. Take in the breathtaking views on your journey of discovery through the magnificent Dart Valley - the backdrop for many famous film locations. Queenstown Shotover Jet Boating: $102 USD per person It's a jet boat ride along the Shotover River of Queenstown — need we say more? Okay, how about this, imagine a fast-paced whitewater ride with sharp turns and spins expertly navigated by a trained driver. So strap in and get ready to get wet. Skydiving: 329 NZD per person Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed, and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath, and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!