Fully Guided Tours & Trips in New Zealand
What if you could explore Christchurch's innovative rebuild after the earthquakes, seeing the city completely transformed? Admire Lake Tekapo's stunning turquoise waters that don't look real, experience Queenstown's endless adventure activities, and discover Wanaka's breathtaking mountain landscapes. Don’t forget to carve your own pounamu (greenstone) in Franz Josef. New Zealand's South Island is pure adventure territory.
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Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way
New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound)We really enjoyed our tour of South Island. It was very well organised and Telli, our guide, was absolutely brilliant! He was knowledgeable, informative, kind and had a great sense of humour – everybody warmed to him and he went above and beyond to make sure we all had the best time. We didn't have the funds to splash out on the extra activities but we still enjoyed every location we visited. There was so much to see and do, and we were lucky to have a really fantastic group of fellow travellers. All the accommodation was clean and comfortable, and Telli recommended places to eat and drink. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Wild Kiwi.
Premium - South Island Escapeamazing it was! cool acitivities, good advices what to do/where to go and of course, many amazing people to meet! :)
Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
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10 best Fully Guided New Zealand tour packages
Compiled by
SteffNew Zealand travel expert at TourRadar
- New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound)
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- Premium - South Island Escape
New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound)
“Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way.”
Nigel, traveled in February
Local specialists facilitate Māori cultural experiences in Hokitika's greenstone workshops and Dark Sky astronomy at Lake Tekapo. Farm life comes alive at Kingston's Fairlight Foundation, while nature guides interpret Milford Sound's UNESCO features during scenic cruises.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Haast, Wanaka, Queenstown, Cardrona, Milford Sound, Te Anau, ManapouriSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Contiki From $1,825
26% Off- US$1,346
Cathedral Square's rebuilt church, Lake Tekapo's lupins, and Queenstown's adventures await. Artisans demonstrate pounamu carving in Franz Josef, while Hokitika's greenstone factory and TranzAlpine railway showcase local craftsmanship and scenery.
Duration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Twizel, Kawarau Gorge, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Lake WanakaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $5,240
20% Off- US$4,192
Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve and Waitangi Treaty Grounds reveal their stories. Cultural richness at Waitangi includes the world's largest ceremonial war canoe, with detailed commentary throughout.
Duration 5 days Destinations Auckland, Whangarei, Tutukaka, Paihia, Bay of Islands, Waitangi Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $2,291
25% Off- US$1,719
Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
“amazing it was! cool acitivities, good advices what to do/where to go and of course, many amazing people to meet!”
Ariana, traveled in February
Local expertise enriches your journey as Kiwi guides showcase New Zealand's highlights. Tours include Tawanui Farm's 330-hectare estate, Abel Tasman's coastal tracks, and wine tastings in Marlborough, with insider knowledge enhancing each location.
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Hanmer Springs, Akaroa Age Range Ages 18-49 Operator Kiwi Experience From $1,042
10% Off- US$937
Kiwi driver guides handle all the logistics and share local knowledge as you travel for 17 days. You'll walk through old mining tunnels at Karangahake Gorge, hike about two hours through native bush in Tongariro National Park, check out the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, and take a scenic boat cruise through Milford Sound.
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 $1,667
10% Off- US$1,500
New Zealand North Island: Haka & Hot Springs
“Really great holiday! So much fun. One tip....just dont be late to the Bus!”
Tyson, traveled in March
New Zealand's beauty shines at Whangārei Falls, Waitomo's glowworm caves, and Rotorua's geothermal wonders. Orientation walks in Paihia, cultural workshops at Kohutapu Lodge, and Wellington's craft beer scene complement stays at quality accommodations.
Duration 10 days Destinations Auckland, Whangarei, Waitangi, Paihia, Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Waitomo, Hobbiton Movie SetSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-32 Operator Topdeck From $2,069
5% Off- US$1,966
Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
“The tour bus was very clean and our driver/guide kept us entertained during the entire trip.”
Andy, traveled in September
Rich cultural experiences await at Kohutapu Lodge, Waitomo Caves, and Fiordland National Park. Skilled guides enhance visits to Franz Josef Glacier, Waiheke Island wineries, and the TranzAlpine train journey, delivering comprehensive insights throughout.
Duration 12 days Destinations Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo, Rotorua, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Wanaka, ArrowtownSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator National Geographic Expeditions with G Adventures From
5% Off- US$5,899
What our customers ask about Fully Guided Tours & Trips in New Zealand
What is the typical duration of fully guided tours in New Zealand?
New Zealand guided tours run between 7 and 21 days with most travelers choosing 14-19 day trips to see both islands. AAT Kings' 17-day routes from Christchurch to Auckland feature stays at quality hotels like the Millennium Hotel Queenstown. Wild Kiwi's 14-day "Big South" tour explores the South Island extensively. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The 14-day trip had the perfect balance of activities and free time to really experience New Zealand's beauty."
What type of accommodation is included on fully guided tours in New Zealand?
Expect well-located 4-5 star hotels and distinctive wilderness lodges on guided New Zealand tours. Properties like Te Waonui Forest Lodge in Mackenzie High Country provide comfortable bases for exploration. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "The hotels were perfectly situated for exploring both New Zealand's interesting towns and stunning nature."
What is the best time of year to take a fully guided tour in New Zealand?
December through February brings peak summer crowds and ideal weather for outdoor activities. March-May and September-November offer pleasant temperatures with fewer tourists. Winter tours from June to August showcase snowy peaks and skiing opportunities. As one TourRadar traveler advised: "We went in March and had perfect weather for hiking in Abel Tasman plus got to see the autumn colors in Arrowtown."
What makes a fully guided tour in New Zealand worth choosing over independent travel?
Guided tours provide local expertise and handle all logistics while giving special access to cultural sites like Te Puia Maori village in Rotorua. Guides share historical context at key locations including Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier. Quality accommodations like Distinction Te Anau Hotel let you focus on the experience. As one TourRadar traveler noted "The guide's deep knowledge of Maori culture and local insights made every destination come alive."
What meals are typically included in fully guided New Zealand tours?
Tours generally cover daily breakfasts and select dinners at notable venues like Walter Peak High Country Farm in Queenstown and traditional hangi feasts at Te Puia. Lunch times stay flexible for local food exploration. A TourRadar traveler commented: "The included meals were excellent especially the farewell dinner at The Grill in Auckland while having lunch flexibility let us try local specialties recommended by our guide."
What does a typical fully guided tour itinerary include in New Zealand?
Tours cover major highlights like Milford Sound cruise Franz Josef Glacier walks and Rotorua's Te Puia Maori village along with city visits to Auckland Wellington and Queenstown. Natural wonders include Abel Tasman National Park Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook. Stays range from city hotels like Cordis Auckland to remote lodges. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "Our guide took us to all the must-see spots but also showed us hidden gems we would never have found on our own."
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