How does the trip get from TePula to Queenstown--is it by air?

Transportation from Auckland to Queenstown will be via air. Please be noted, TePula is not part of the trip.

We are looking to travel to New Zeland in December 2025 during the school break with our grandson who is 9. Will need to see Hobbiton but interested in all we can see in 10-12 days max.

We're thrilled to hear you're considering this unforgettable experience—especially with your grandson. It's a perfect time of year to explore New Zealand's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. And yes, this tour does include a visit to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, which is always a highlight! The itinerary runs for 10 days, providing a well-paced journey from the North to South Island.

What should I do if I need to arrive a few days before the tour starts?

You can request pre-accommodation nights through the tour operator. This is on request basis and at the discretion of the hotel.

Are special dietary requests accommodated on the tour?

Special dietary requests can typically be accommodated but should be communicated to the tour operator in advance.

What COVID-19 precautions are necessary for travel?

While COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are recommended, they are no longer required as of January 1, 2023. However, you must comply with other specific requirements by airlines or local authorities.

I will be traveling with a bike. Is this something that you can accommodate?

We do not accommodate bikes on this trip. It would be advisable to arrange alternative transportation to the hotel.

Can I use my credit card to make bookings or other payments during the tour?

Yes, credit cards can typically be used for bookings and other payments. However, it's always a good idea to confirm payment methods with your tour operator beforehand.

How do internal flights within New Zealand get booked?

Internal flights within New Zealand are booked by the tour operator, provided you have submitted your 13-digit international ticket number at least 70 days prior to departure.

Are there transfers available from the airport?

Yes, complimentary transfers from Auckland International Airport are included. Ensure your flight details are provided 60 days before departure to qualify for these.

What is the procedure if my flight is cancelled?

In the event of a flight cancellation, it's important to communicate the changes to the tour operator as soon as possible to adjust your booking details and transfer arrangements.

From

$5,640

US $4,963 per person

Contrasts Of New Zealand

10 days

•

From Auckland to Christchurch

3.6 (5 reviews)

View all
View all

From

$5,640

12% off

US $4,963 per person

+ $310 additional upfront costs

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Trafalgar offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $248

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Pay only $200 today. The rest is due 95 days before departure. Learn more

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Plan your adventure:

Platinum Operator: Trafalgar
City & Culture: Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided: An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Low Intensity: Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English
Group Size 20 - 48
All Ages Welcome

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Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Intro
Introduction
Day 1
Auckland
Auckland
Meals
Dinner (Dinner at The Grill)
Accommodation
Hotel (Horizon by SkyCity)
Day 2
Auckland
Auckland
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel (Horizon by SkyCity)
Included Activities
- All Blacks Experience guided tour
- Auckland city sightseeing tour including Mission Bay, Bastion Point, Michael Joseph Savage Memorial, and Auckland Museum
Optional Activities
- Dining at waterfront restaurants in Viaduct Harbour
- Shopping on Queen Street and boutique shops
Landmarks
Mission Bay
Bastion Point
Michael Joseph Savage Memorial
Auckland Museum
Pukekawa
Waitemata Harbour
Viaduct Harbour
Queen Street
Day 3
Auckland to Rotorua
Auckland to Rotorua
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Hangi-inspired cuisine)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Rotorua)
Included Activities
- Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour
- Te Po experience at Te Puia including guided Māori history and culture tour
- Cultural performance in Te Aronui a Rua meeting house
- Pohutu Geyser viewing
Landmarks
Hobbiton Movie Set
Te Puia
Pohutu Geyser
Te Aronui a Rua
Day 4
Rotorua to Queenstown
Rotorua to Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Queenstown)
Included Activities
- National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa guided tour with Local Specialist
Optional Activities
- Dining at award-winning restaurants in Queenstown
- Adventure activities such as skiing, white-water rafting, or bungy jumping
Landmarks
National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa
Day 5
Queenstown to Milford Sound
Queenstown to Milford Sound
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch on scenic cruise)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Scenic cruise on Milford Sound with wildlife viewing
Optional Activities
- Dinner at restaurants overlooking Lake Wakatipu
Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
Mirror Lakes
Devil's Staircase
Homer Tunnel
Mitre Peak
Lady Bowen Falls
Piopiotahi (Milford Sound)
Day 6
Queenstown
Queenstown
Meals
Dinner (Fresh local food and wines matched with classic Kiwi hospitality at Postmasters Cottage in Arrowtown)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Dinner at Postmasters Cottage in Arrowtown with local food and wines
Optional Activities
- Wine tour of three premium boutique vineyards in Otago region
- Jet boat ride on Shotover River
Landmarks
Postmasters Cottage
Shotover River
Otago Wine Region
Day 7
Cromwell - Lake Tekapo
Cromwell - Lake Tekapo
Accommodation
Hotel (Peppers Bluewater Resort)
Included Activities
- Visit Jones Family fruit stall and taste regional stone fruit
- Highlands Motorsport Museum visit
- Church of the Good Shepherd grounds visit
- Guided stargazing experience at UNESCO Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with expert astronomy guides and optical telescope
Landmarks
Lake Dunstan
Lake Tekapo
Jones Family Fruit Stall
Highlands Motorsport Museum
Church of the Good Shepherd
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Day 8
Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch)
Included Activities
- Cathedral (Christchurch Cathedral) visit
- Canterbury Museum visit
- Christchurch Earthquake Memorial viewing
- Bridge of Remembrance viewing
Landmarks
Christchurch Cathedral
Canterbury Museum
Christchurch Earthquake Memorial
Bridge of Remembrance
Day 9
Christchurch to North Canterbury
Christchurch to North Canterbury
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Platter-style lunch at Waipara Springs Winery), Dinner (Celebratory dinner featuring Canterbury region produce)
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch)
Included Activities
- Hurunui Hills farm By My Guest experience with Bamford Family
- Waipara Springs Winery wine tasting and platter lunch
Landmarks
Hurunui Hills
Waipara Springs Winery
Day 10
Christchurch
Christchurch
Meals
Breakfast

Landmarks
Mission Bay
Bastion Point
Michael Joseph Savage Memorial
Auckland Museum
Pukekawa
Waitemata Harbour
Viaduct Harbour
Queen Street

Landmarks
Hobbiton Movie Set
Te Puia
Pohutu Geyser
Te Aronui a Rua

Landmarks
National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa

Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
Mirror Lakes
Devil's Staircase
Homer Tunnel
Mitre Peak
Lady Bowen Falls
Piopiotahi (Milford Sound)

Landmarks
Postmasters Cottage
Shotover River
Otago Wine Region

Landmarks
Lake Dunstan
Lake Tekapo
Jones Family Fruit Stall
Highlands Motorsport Museum
Church of the Good Shepherd
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

Landmarks
Christchurch Cathedral
Canterbury Museum
Christchurch Earthquake Memorial
Bridge of Remembrance

Landmarks
Hurunui Hills
Waipara Springs Winery

Accommodation
Flights
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Insurance

Where You'll Stay

Horizon by SkyCity
Hotel
Days 1, 2
Millennium Rotorua
Hotel
day 3
Millennium Queenstown
Hotel
Days 4, 5, 6
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Hotel
day 7
Distinction Christchurch
Hotel
Days 8, 9

All accommodations are subject to change

Operated by

Trafalgar

Platinum Operator

Rating: 4.5 (2,290 reviews)
Response time: 10 hours
Response rate: 84%
Cancellation policy: Learn more

Traveler Reviews

3.6

Overall rating based on 5 Reviews

Itinerary
5.0
Transport
3.4
Guide
4.0
Accommodation
4.0
Food
4.0
Tour Operator
4.5

Anthony5.0•May 2018
Simply magnificent, well organised and first class service 10/10
Traveled in April 2018
Gayle2.0•February 2018
Just letting everyone know what happened when we did this tour. Everything was going well until our bus burnt to the...
Just letting everyone know what happened when we did this tour. Everything was going well until our bus burnt to the ground as we had to watch in Cromwell on January 3rd 2018. We were assured that the company would keep in touch and ensure that all was well. As well as going through the unending process of insurance claims, all we have received from Trafalgar is reimbursement for lost days, a pitiful 20% discount on our next guided tour, not returned emails and very curt responses when they finally replied! What amazing customer relations - NOT! VERY disappointing! Show more
Traveled in January 2018
Beverley4.0•January 2018
The trip was up to expectation. Well organized. Guides were great. Drivers were great. Overall it really was a...
Show more
Traveled in January 2018
moom3.5•January 2017
Traveled in December 2016
Ratna3.5•January 2017
All are well arranged, but need much more time to spend the designated tour areas. It is like San Josef we only was...
All are well arranged, but need much more time to spend the designated tour areas. It is like San Josef we only was given time to take off the bus and take a walk to San Josef tour area for only 30 minutes -- it is ridiculous !! we could not even enjoy and explore the places. And some other designated tour areas only for 15 minutes. Mine as well it is better looking the beautiful places in NZ using "You Tube" for free instead of sitting most of the time in the bus that costing me lots of money! Even the tour director (Mark) has done very good job for almost everything -- but only giving generous times to explore that he forgot to give us. Actually we did not mind arrive in the hotel late evening, in order to spend much longer in the designated areas. And the distance of designated areas were too long -- it is better if you can choose the hotels very close to designated areas -- for example: Checking in the hotel close to San Josef in the evening -- and then in the morning till noon -- the Group are taken to Glazier place in the morning after breakfast and enjoy for the walk, etc. Not a vice versa. We don't like sitting on the bus for too long, and enjoy designated tour areas for too short !!. So you have to consider the right priority to your clients' need in this matter. Because seeing panoramas thru behind the glass window in the bus is the same as we are watching panoramas via the U-tube (U-tube even gives us much better panoramas for free !!). Show more
Traveled in December 2016

Dates & Prices

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

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Ends on 4 Nov, 2026

From Friday
13 Nov, 2026
To Sunday
22 Nov, 2026
This departure date is not available or sold out
Sold out
From:
US$5,922 per person
Additional Upfront
$315
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From Friday
27 Nov, 2026
To Sunday
6 Dec, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
$5,640
US$5,076 per person
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Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
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From Friday
4 Dec, 2026
To Sunday
13 Dec, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US$5,753 per person
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Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
11 Dec, 2026
To Sunday
20 Dec, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
15 Jan, 2027
To Sunday
24 Jan, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
22 Jan, 2027
To Sunday
31 Jan, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
5 Feb, 2027
To Sunday
14 Feb, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
19 Feb, 2027
To Sunday
28 Feb, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
12% off
From Friday
26 Feb, 2027
To Sunday
7 Mar, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$5,640
US$4,963 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315
Instant Confirmation
From Friday
12 Mar, 2027
To Sunday
21 Mar, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US$5,922 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Additional Upfront
$315

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

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T
Teresa
Asked on September 20th, 2025
How does the trip get from TePula to Queenstown--is it by air?
Transport
- TrafalgarOperator•Written September 2025
  Transportation from Auckland to Queenstown will be via air. Please be noted, TePula is not part of the trip.
D
Diane
Asked on July 31st, 2025
We are looking to travel to New Zeland in December 2025 during the school break with our grandson who is 9. Will need to see Hobbiton but interested in all we can see in 10-12 days max.
Age Range
Tour Details
- TrafalgarOperator•Written August 2025
  We're thrilled to hear you're considering this unforgettable experience—especially with your grandson. It's a perfect time of year to explore New Zealand's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. And yes, this tour does include a visit to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, which is always a highlight! The itinerary runs for 10 days, providing a well-paced journey from the North to South Island.
N
Nienke
Asked on March 22nd, 2025
What should I do if I need to arrive a few days before the tour starts?
Accommodation
Travel Support
- TrafalgarOperator•Written March 2025
  You can request pre-accommodation nights through the tour operator. This is on request basis and at the discretion of the hotel.
G
Glenn
Asked on March 18th, 2025
Are special dietary requests accommodated on the tour?
Meals
- TrafalgarOperator•Written March 2025
  Special dietary requests can typically be accommodated but should be communicated to the tour operator in advance.
J
Jean-Yves
Asked on January 26th, 2025
What COVID-19 precautions are necessary for travel?
Other
- TrafalgarOperator•Written January 2025
  While COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are recommended, they are no longer required as of January 1, 2023. However, you must comply with other specific requirements by airlines or local authorities.
S
Shirley
Asked on September 30th, 2024
I will be traveling with a bike. Is this something that you can accommodate?
Transport
- TrafalgarOperator•Written September 2024
  We do not accommodate bikes on this trip. It would be advisable to arrange alternative transportation to the hotel.
J
Joel
Asked on September 2nd, 2024
Can I use my credit card to make bookings or other payments during the tour?
Payments
Travel Support
- TrafalgarOperator•Written September 2024
  Yes, credit cards can typically be used for bookings and other payments. However, it's always a good idea to confirm payment methods with your tour operator beforehand.
G
Gerrit
Asked on August 20th, 2024
How do internal flights within New Zealand get booked?
Flights / Transfers
Tour Details
- TrafalgarOperator•Written August 2024
  Internal flights within New Zealand are booked by the tour operator, provided you have submitted your 13-digit international ticket number at least 70 days prior to departure.
E
Emily
Asked on June 6th, 2024
Are there transfers available from the airport?
Flights / Transfers
- TrafalgarOperator•Written June 2024
  Yes, complimentary transfers from Auckland International Airport are included. Ensure your flight details are provided 60 days before departure to qualify for these.
E
Eugen
Asked on May 26th, 2024
What is the procedure if my flight is cancelled?
Flights / Transfers
- TrafalgarOperator•Written May 2024
  In the event of a flight cancellation, it's important to communicate the changes to the tour operator as soon as possible to adjust your booking details and transfer arrangements.

Good to know

Tour ID: 119096

The practical details for your trip across New Zealand: money, plugs and flexible ways to pay, all in one place.

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Pay in installments
Spread the cost in interest-free biweekly installments of $321.
Deposit only
Book now with just a $200 deposit. The remaining balance is due 95 days before departure.
$ - New Zealand Dollar
You’ll encounter New Zealand Dollar in New Zealand.
Plug type I
You’ll need an adapter for these sockets in New Zealand.

Currency
$
New Zealand Dollar
New Zealand
Plugs & adapters
As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.
- Type I
  Used in New Zealand
Visa
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and how long you stay. We can’t process visas for you, but here’s a quick indication for this trip.
This is only an indication. Visa rules depend on your passport, trip length and purpose. Always confirm with the official embassy or consulate before you travel.
Payment information
Pay now
A $200 deposit
Balance due
95 days before departure
Installments
Interest-free, every two weeks
Currency
USD
Booking fee
None
Book now with just a $200 deposit and pay the rest later. The remaining balance is due 95 days before departure, charged automatically to your card, or you can split it into interest-free biweekly installments of $321 at checkout. Everything is charged in USD, and TourRadar never adds a booking fee. Any trip departing before February 2nd, 2027 will need to be paid in full at checkout.
Accepted for Trafalgar tours
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Cancellation Policy
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Insurance
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Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.
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From

$5,640

12% off

US $4,963 per person

+ $310 additional upfront costs

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Trafalgar offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $248

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Pay only $200 today. The rest is due 95 days before departure. Learn more

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Video from Trafalgar

Trafalgar Wellbeing

Contrasts Of New Zealand

Explore our featured adventures

Itinerary

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

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What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Prices

Want to read it later?

Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Pay in installments

Deposit only

$ - New Zealand Dollar

Plug type I

Currency

Plugs & adapters

Visa

Payment information

Accepted for Trafalgar tours

Cancellation Policy

Insurance

Best price guarantee

How it works

Your quote needs

What doesn’t count

Accessibility

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