Christmas & New Year Tours in New Zealand
Imagine celebrating the festive season in New Zealand over Christmas and New Year's Eve! With 152 Christmas and New Year adventures to choose from lasting 4 days up to 25 days, you're sure to find that enchanting New Zealand Christmas tour you have always dreamt of.
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Erica • traveled in January
Excellent whirlwind tour of New Zealand showcasing its natural beauty, history, and friendly people. We packed so much into 15 days and made so many fun memories along the way. Lots of optional activities mean you can make the tour your own whether you prefer adrenaline-fueled adventure or relaxation.
Highlights of New Zealand - C
cognito:default_val • traveled in November, 2025
Great appreciation given to Big Ben in Wild Kiwi! All details before booking via Tour Radar have been given timely and precise. Sure easy to communicate via emails and phone calls 7/24. This was my first time to use Tour Radar and best experience! Everything is set safe in mind before my trip starts.
Premium - South Island Escape - D
Dallas • traveled in January, 2025
I recently finished the New Zealand Highlights Tour with Wild Kiwi, and it was an incredible experience. The South Island was full of adventure, with highlights like skydiving, paddleboarding, and trekking through stunning scenery. Ben, our guide, was engaging, knowledgeable, and made the experience even better with his local insights. On the North Island, Telli took over and brought the same energy and expertise. Visiting Hobbiton was a highlight, along with jet boating and more trekking through beautiful landscapes. Both guides added so much value to the trip, making it feel seamless and enjoyable. If you're looking for a well-organized way to explore New Zealand and experience a mix of adventure and natural beauty, I highly recommend Wild Kiwi to anyone wishing to visit the country.
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10 best Christmas & New Year New Zealand tour packages
Compiled by
SteffNew Zealand travel expert at TourRadar
- New Zealand South to North Drive, Cruise & Rail
- New Zealand Northern Trail (Southbound) (8 destinations)
- Queenstown Southern Loop
- Highlights of New Zealand
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- North Island - Hop-On-Hop-Off bus pass
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New Zealand South to North Drive, Cruise & Rail
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I was able to experience New Zealand from bottom to top.”
David, traveled in January
New Zealand's most scenic locations shine during the festive season. Spend Christmas in Queenstown's alpine setting, cruise Milford Sound aboard Milford Mariner with special holiday dinner, and welcome New Year watching Auckland's harbor fireworks. Take TranzAlpine's winter wonderland journey.
Duration 14 days Destinations Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef, Greymouth, Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Australia and New Zealand Travel Company From
- US$2,993
Summer highlights await, from digging hot pools at Hot Water Beach to witnessing Pohutu Geyser in Rotorua. Join festive hangi feasts, visit Hobbiton Movie Set, and enjoy Wellington's vibrant cultural scene during peak season.
Duration 10 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Raglan, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Wellington Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,295
5% Off- US$4,080You save $215
Queenstown Southern Loop
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The van had a broken seat belt attachment with a sharp edge which ruined a down jacket I had bought for the trip.”
Susan, traveled in October
A Milford Sound cruise brings encounters with dolphins, while Te Anau's glow worm caves enchant visitors. Summer solstice walks lead past Nugget Point lighthouse, with festive nights in Stewart Island's local restaurants.
Duration 6 days Destinations Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Stewart Island Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $2,770
25% Off- US$2,078You save $693
Highlights of New Zealand
43 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A beautiful tour of both north and south islands. We had 11 people and this was a good number.”
Elizabeth, traveled in August
Toast the holidays with December departures featuring festive experiences across New Zealand. Savor traditional hangi feasts in Rotorua, celebrate the season in Queenstown, and join summer activities in Franz Josef and Mount Cook. Perfect timing for peak season exploration.
Duration 15 days Destinations Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From
25% Off- US$4,599
Premium - South Island Escape
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything is set safe in mind before my trip starts. This was my best experience with Tour Radar!”
YAJUAN, traveled in November
New Zealand's festive charm shines at premium hotels from Tekapo to Queenstown. Mt Difficulty Vineyard presents holiday dining, Dark Sky Reserve offers New Year stargazing, and Franz Josef Glacier displays winter wonderland views.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Wild Kiwi From
25% Off- US$2,703+$405 upfront costs
New Zealand Highlights
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I went on a wild kiwi tour of New Zealand and had the time of my life. It is a trip I will never forget.”
Brendan, traveled in January
Summer festivities across both islands begin at Hobbiton's magical movie set. Tekapo Dark Sky Reserve offers stellar views, while seasonal highlights include Milford Sound cruising and Mt Difficulty wine tasting, all while enjoying premium accommodations.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Mount Maunganui, Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo, Cambridge, Raglan, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Te AnauSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Wild Kiwi From
25% Off- US$5,322+$798 upfront costs
Duration 17 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Hokitika, Franz JosefSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Kiwi Experience From $1,625
20% Off- US$1,300You save $325
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
26 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great trip, highly recommend as a fun way to see the South Island.”
Julie, traveled in February
The South Island's summer highlights shine during the holidays. Take in Queenstown's festive atmosphere and stargaze at Lake Tekapo's Dark Sky Reserve. Optional whale watching in Kaikoura ($180) and special group dinners create memorable moments.
Duration 16 days Destinations Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Paparoa National Park, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau, Christchurch, KaikouraSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $2,999
20% Off- US$2,399You save $600
A 7-day North Island adventure brings Christmas festivities at Mitai Maori Village in Rotorua, Te Puia's geothermal wonders, and New Year celebrations in Wellington's Cuba Street. Hot Water Beach and Lake Taupo host special seasonal activities.
Duration 6 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Kiwi Experience From $392
20% Off- US$313You save $78
Marvel at Milford Sound's summer waterfalls and Cape Foulwind's seal colony viewing this season. Special holiday experiences include glow worm cave tours in Te Anau and festive dining overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Welcome the New Year among The Remarkables mountain range.
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Westport, Punakaiki, Kumara, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $5,460
10% Off- US$4,914You save $546
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours in New Zealand
When is the best time to book a Christmas & New Year tour in New Zealand?
Planning ahead is crucial for New Zealand's festive season. Book your tour 6-8 months before departure to secure spots at popular destinations like Queenstown Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier. December marks the peak of summer tourism with limited availability across most destinations. One TourRadar traveler noted "Make all certain that activities and accommodations are included and confirmed well in advance especially around the holiday season when availability can be limited."
What special Christmas & New Year activities are included in New Zealand tours?
The holiday season in New Zealand combines traditional festivities with local culture. Visitors can join hangi dinners at Te Puia in Rotorua watch New Year's Eve fireworks in Auckland or Queenstown and take holiday cruises on Milford Sound. Premium accommodations like the Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook and Novotel in Queenstown prepare special Christmas meals. According to a TourRadar traveler "The TSS Earnslaw cruise on Lake Wakatipu offers magical evening celebrations during the holiday season."
What are the must-see destinations for Christmas & New Year in New Zealand?
Key holiday destinations start with Queenstown's New Year celebrations and extend to Milford Sound's Christmas cruises. Rotorua offers Christmas experiences with Maori communities while Franz Josef Glacier provides summer ice explorations. Wellington's Te Papa Museum and Auckland's harbor feature holiday programs throughout the season. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Spending Christmas Day cruising Milford Sound and New Year's Eve in Queenstown's buzzing atmosphere was absolutely magical."
What's the weather like during Christmas & New Year in New Zealand?
New Zealand's summer coincides with the holiday season creating ideal conditions for outdoor celebrations. Queenstown experiences temperatures of 20-25°C with daylight lasting until 9pm. The Bay of Islands sees warmer weather around 25-28°C perfect for swimming while Rotorua maintains comfortable temperatures of 22-24°C. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The weather was beautiful the people were really nice and the scenery was amazing during the holiday season."
Where are the best places to stay during Christmas & New Year in New Zealand?
Holiday accommodations range from mountain retreats to waterfront hotels. The Scenic Hotel in Franz Josef provides mountain views while the Heritage Queenstown overlooks Lake Wakatipu. Urban options include the Cordis Auckland and InterContinental Wellington with special holiday packages. A TourRadar traveler commented: "Staying at the Heritage Queenstown over New Year's was perfect - we had an amazing view of the fireworks over the lake from our balcony."
How much should I budget for a Christmas & New Year tour in New Zealand?
Ten to fourteen-day tours during the holiday season cost between USD 2500-6500 per person. This covers stays at properties like Quest Queenstown or Ramada Suites plus transportation and guided activities. Extra expenses include optional activities ($150-300 each) daily meals ($50-100) and New Year's Eve events. A TourRadar traveler advised "Budget extra for this period as many restaurants and activities have special holiday pricing."