Is it possible to book this tour if I am over the age limit?

Yes, anyone can signup for the tour as long as they can participate in the activities outlined in the itinerary.

What are the accommodations provided during the tour?

The accommodations usually include hotels like Sudima in Christchurch and Nesuto in Auckland. Specific names will be provided closer to your travel date.

Are vegetarian meals available during the tour?

Yes, vegetarian meal options are available in all cities throughout the tour.

How can I check the number of participants currently signed up for my tour?

You may ask about current sign-ups, and we will provide you with available details.

What happens if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?

The tour is guaranteed departure, and we will update you regarding any changes.

Which hotel in Auckland will we be staying at? If we arrive at the hotel on December 8th evening will we still be able to join the tour?

Can you arrange for Vegetarian meals for 2 seniors for the entire tour?

What would be the price for adding one night of pre- and one night of post-accommodation? If they book these pre and post-nights, will they have airport transfers on those dates? Could you provide them with optional excursions to Christchurch? Can they request a vegetarian option for food? What meals are included in the package?

YES we can book extra pre and post hotel stay, and YES airport transfer will be arranged accordingly and its included. The price will be $200 per room per night. Optional excursions to Christchurch include: Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour ($200/person) and Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour with lunch ($270). Mostly breakfast is included at the hotel stay, and they usually have continental type or buffet, and there will be Veg option.

Are airport transfers included in the tour?

Airport transfers may be included based on your itinerary; please check regarding specific days.

Will I be able to have vegetarian gluten-free meals?

Sure, We can request for vegetarian meal where there is lunch included as per the itinerary (not sure abt gluten free). Breakfast is at the hotel so you may request the hotel accordingly as most of the day tour starts early so you can request a breakfast to go at the hotel reception.

How can I obtain information about insurance for the trip?

Insurance is mandatory and can be purchased through any provider, though options vary in coverage and cost.

From

US $3,990 per person

NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands

10 days

•

From Auckland to Christchurch

4.4

9 traveler reviews

View all
The Highlights Tour put together by Bucket List Tours was exactly what I was hoping for and it exceeded my expectations.
Richard, traveled in April
5.0
View all

From

US $3,990 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Silver Operator: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Explorer: Curated to ignite your sense of adventure
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided: An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Medium Intensity: Travelers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities
Guided in English
Group Size 1 - 30
Ages 8+

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Day 1
Auckland
Start point
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (Auckland airport)
Accommodation
Hotel (Mercure Auckland hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- Airport transfer
- Free day to explore Auckland
Optional Activities
- Harbour Dinner Cruise – $100 pp
Day 2
Auckland to Rotorua
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Traditional Maori Hangi Buffet)
Accommodation
Hotel (Mercure Auckland hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- Guided sightseeing in Rotorua
- Mitai Maori Village
- Maori Cultural Performance
- Traditional Maori Hangi Buffet Lunch
Landmarks
Mitai Maori Village
Day 3
Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel (Mercure Auckland hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- Guided sightseeing
- Hobbiton Movie Set
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Optional Activities
- Rotorua's Polynesian Spa – $40 pp
Landmarks
Hobbiton Movie Set
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Big Bird & Miniature Animal Petting Farm
Day 4
Auckland to Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast (Breakfast at hotel)
Accommodation
Hotel (Holiday Inn Queenstown or similar)
Included Activities
- Airport transfer
Optional Activities
- Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride - $40 per person
Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
The Remarkables Mountain Range
Queenstown Skyline Gondola
Day 5
Queenstown - Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel (Holiday Inn Queenstown or similar)
Included Activities
- Sightseeing through South Island landscapes
- Scenic stops at Lake Pukaki
- Free time to explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Walk to Tasman Glacier lookout
Optional Activities
- Visit High Country Salmon
- Visit seasonal fruit stalls
Landmarks
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Kawarau Gorge
Lindis Pass
Lake Pukaki
Tasman Glacier
Day 6
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Hotel (Holiday Inn Queenstown or similar)
Included Activities
- Milford Sound Nature Cruise with return luxury coach transfers
Landmarks
Milford Sound
Mitre Peak
Pembroke Glacier
Lake Wakatipu
Day 7
Queenstown to Franz Josef
Meals
Breakfast (Breakfast @ hotel)
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- Sightseeing on the way to Franz Josef
Landmarks
Lake Dunstan
Lake Wanaka
Lake Hawea
Mount Aspiring World Heritage Park
Haast Pass
Franz Josef Glacier
Day 8
Franz Josef Free Day
Meals
Breakfast (Breakfast @ hotel)
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- Free day to explore
Optional Activities
- Scenic cruise and rainforest walk – $95 / person
- Kayak adventure – $85 / person
Landmarks
Lake Mapourika
Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary
Day 9
Franz Josef to Christchurch via TranzAlpine Train
Meals
Breakfast (Breakfast @ hotel)
Accommodation
Hotel (Sudima Christchurch Airport hotel or similar)
Included Activities
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- Transfer to train station
Landmarks
Arthur's Pass
Southern Alps
Day 10
Christchurch Departure
End point
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand (Christchurch airport)
Meals
Breakfast
Included Activities
- Airport shuttle/transfer

Landmarks
Mitai Maori Village

Landmarks
Hobbiton Movie Set
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Big Bird & Miniature Animal Petting Farm

Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
The Remarkables Mountain Range
Queenstown Skyline Gondola

Landmarks
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Kawarau Gorge
Lindis Pass
Lake Pukaki
Tasman Glacier

Landmarks
Milford Sound
Mitre Peak
Pembroke Glacier
Lake Wakatipu

Landmarks
Lake Dunstan
Lake Wanaka
Lake Hawea
Mount Aspiring World Heritage Park
Haast Pass
Franz Josef Glacier

Landmarks
Lake Mapourika
Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary

Landmarks
Arthur's Pass
Southern Alps

What's Included

Expand All

Accommodation
Flights
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Mercure Auckland hotel or similar
Hotel
Days 1, 2, 3
Holiday Inn Queenstown or similar
Hotel
Days 4, 5, 6
Scenic hotel or similar
Hotel
Days 7, 8
Sudima Christchurch Airport hotel or similar
Hotel
day 9

Operated by

Bucket List Group Travel LLC

Silver Operator

Rating: 4.1(37 reviews)
Response time: 5 hours
Response rate: 100%
Cancellation policy

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.4

Overall rating based on 9 Reviews

Itinerary
4.4
Transport
4.4
Guide
4.7
Accommodation
4.0
Food
3.9
Tour Operator
4.1

Margaret
March 11th, 2026
I didn't realise the days would be so much sitting in coaches. Maybe instead of free days we could move closer to a...
Show more
Traveled in February 2026
A
Adam
February 21st, 2026
This tour definitely exposes you to the unique landscapes of New Zealand! You get to experience both the north and...
This tour definitely exposes you to the unique landscapes of New Zealand! You get to experience both the north and south Islands which was great. I did this trip solo and it was very well planned and designed for a solo traveler. Keep in mind that some of the day tours can be a full day (around 12 hrs) so sometimes not much other free time. I do wish I had some more free time in Queenstown, but I still got to see a lot on the free day there. Unfortunately weather did not cooperate for a couple of the days, so be ready to have a plan B if it rains or one of your tours gets cancelled. Otherwise, well planned itinerary. You definitely pack a lot in to the 10 days you are in New Zealand. If you are a nature lover like me, this will be a great tour to book since you can see all the beautiful scenery of this beautiful country.Show more
Traveled in February 2026
Reply from: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Thank you Adam for your valuable feedback and sharing your experience. We are glad to know that overall you enjoyed the tour and had great time. We look forward to see you more on the Bucket List tours.
Show more
Tracy
October 21st, 2025
This tour is designed with solo travelers in mind. I've solo traveled through Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan. This...
This tour is designed with solo travelers in mind. I've solo traveled through Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan. This tour takes the stress out of logistics planning to create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. Places such as Japan have impeccable public transit, which makes getting around easy. New Zealand, however, requires a lot of driving to reach highly sought-after hotspots. As a solo-traveler, renting a car and driving several hours a day wasn't ideal. New Zealand thankfully offers bus/couch tours to get travelers where they want to go. BucketList builds an itinerary off these tour schedules to create an experience that is seamless and blends these schedules to together to maximize the traveler's experience. Every morning, all I had to do was show up to the rendezvous. The tour guides will stop for breakfast at a cafe, so don't worry if the pick up times are extraordinarily early. Get in some extra Zs and before you know it, it's time for some brekkie. Aside from sewing together a seamless tour experience, the hotels picked by BucketList were clean and comfortable. While these are not 5 Star accommodations, BucketList did not cheap out with cheap motels, either. The accommodations were conveniently located, friendly staff, included breakfast (if offered by the accommodation), and clean. The only downside to this itinerary is it can feel a bit rushed. This is because each tour day is roughly 12 hours, which doesn't leave much time to explore Queenstown, for example. I was able to look around a little bit the day I arrived in Queenstown, however for the other days I came back too late to look around the shops. If you're only interested in the night life of Queenstown, this may be okay, keeping in mind there is an early start each day.Show more
Traveled in August 2025
Reply from: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Thank you Tracy for your valuable feedback, We hope you had great time in New Zealand and look forward to seeing you on more of Bucket List tours :)
Show more
E
Edith
April 17th, 2025
Excellent service and very responsible
Traveled in April 2025
S
Sastry
December 30th, 2024
Overall the itinerary was good. Would have liked to include a T trip to Wellington and a day in Christchurch. The...
Overall the itinerary was good. Would have liked to include a T trip to Wellington and a day in Christchurch. The hotels in Queenstown and Franz Joseph though good were not in the town and arranging for transportation to the city for dinners were problematic. Would recommend better lodging in the city. The pickups and drops were good except in Auckland where the taxi to the airport arrived almost 1.5 hrs late with very poor communications or updates. The tour guides were good.. Overall it was a memorable trip. We were surprised that nobody from Tourradar or BucketList were there to meet us at any point of the trip.Show more
Traveled in December 2024
MARUSCA
November 11th, 2024
The tour went ok in the end despite a couple of set backs due to adverse whether conditions of two main tour activities.
Traveled in October 2024
R
Richard
April 3rd, 2024
New Zealand and my itinerary was perfect! I had to be efficient since I only had 10 days and wanted to see both...
New Zealand and my itinerary was perfect! I had to be efficient since I only had 10 days and wanted to see both islands of NZ. The Highlights Tour put together by Bucket List Tours was exactly what I was hoping for and it exceeded my expectations. Before leaving the US, Bucket List Tours connected with me and made sure we were able to communicate throughout my trip via WhatsApp. And that was super helpful since there were a number of times where I was able to clarify logistical items on the itinerary to ensure such things as being at the right pickup locations for scheduled day tours. Bucket Lisr Tours was always very responsive and helped me do everything I had on my list for New Zealand. I would highly recommend Bucket List Tours to anyone and am already planning on using them again in the future!Show more
Traveled in March 2024
Reply from: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Thank you Richard for your feedback. We look forward to see you on more tours with Bucket List Group Travel.
Show more
C
Camelia
February 22nd, 2024
Everything was very well organized and according to the description on the site, all transfers, attractions and...
Everything was very well organized and according to the description on the site, all transfers, attractions and accomodation. Hotels were well chosen (with one exception), clean and comfortable, guided tours had very knowledgeable and professional guides, busses of good quality. i was well informed about each step through the app. My questions were answered almost immediately through whatsapp. The only improvement point i can see is the chosen accomodation in Franz Josef (Montrose hostel): the room was not clean (bedsheet not changed, with hair on pillows and quilt) and the receptionist attitude very unpolite; i found myself another last minute accomodation and paid extra for it. All in all, thank you for a great experience in a beautiful country.Show more
Traveled in February 2024
Reply from: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Thank you Richard for your feedback. We have now removed your mentioned hotel from the Franz Josef accommodation, moving forward we won't be adding that hotel for our guests. We look forward to see you on more tours with Bucket List Group Travel.
Show more
A
AUDREY
January 23rd, 2024
Himanshu the representative was very Cooperative and answered all our queries. Though the group was maximum to 15...
Show more
Traveled in January 2024
Reply from: Bucket List Group Travel LLC
Thank you Audrey for your feedback. This is a group tour activities and some tour may have more then 15 for example a day tour form Queenstown to Franz Josef as it is only a bus coach option available and same a day cruise from Queenstown. But we have now updated the group size so there won't be any confusion for the other travelers. We look forward to see you on more tours with Bucket List Group Travel.
Show more

Dates & Availability

Select departure month and travellers

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

From Monday
4 May, 2026
To Wednesday
13 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Tuesday
5 May, 2026
To Thursday
14 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Wednesday
6 May, 2026
To Friday
15 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Thursday
7 May, 2026
To Saturday
16 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Friday
8 May, 2026
To Sunday
17 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Saturday
9 May, 2026
To Monday
18 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Sunday
10 May, 2026
To Tuesday
19 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Monday
11 May, 2026
To Wednesday
20 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Tuesday
12 May, 2026
To Thursday
21 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types
From Wednesday
13 May, 2026
To Friday
22 May, 2026
English
From:
US $3,990 per person
Multiple Room Types

Why book with TourRadar?

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Rated excellent on
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Earn $50 in travel credits

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

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Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts

F
Franck
Asked on February 24th, 2025
Is it possible to book this tour if I am over the age limit?
Age Range
Tour Details
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written February 2025
  Yes, anyone can signup for the tour as long as they can participate in the activities outlined in the itinerary.
H
Hans-Peter
Asked on February 2nd, 2025
What are the accommodations provided during the tour?
Accommodation
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written February 2025
  The accommodations usually include hotels like Sudima in Christchurch and Nesuto in Auckland. Specific names will be provided closer to your travel date.
M
Martin
Asked on December 13th, 2024
Are vegetarian meals available during the tour?
Meals
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written December 2024
  Yes, vegetarian meal options are available in all cities throughout the tour.
M
Max
Asked on November 29th, 2024
How can I check the number of participants currently signed up for my tour?
Group size
Tour Details
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written November 2024
  You may ask about current sign-ups, and we will provide you with available details.
M
Mélissa
Asked on November 9th, 2024
What happens if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?
Tour Details
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written November 2024
  The tour is guaranteed departure, and we will update you regarding any changes.
J
Jenna
Asked on October 1st, 2024
Which hotel in Auckland will we be staying at? If we arrive at the hotel on December 8th evening will we still be able to join the tour?
Accommodation
Tour Details
- J
  Jenna
  Traveler•Written October 2024
  Can you arrange for Vegetarian meals for 2 seniors for the entire tour?
- J
  Jenna
  Traveler•Written October 2024
  If we needed to stay December 17th night at the hotel in Christchurch could you folks make the booking and let me know what the additional cost would be?
- J
  Jenna
  Traveler•Written October 2024
  Can you arrange for a drop off to the Christchurch airport on Dec 18th early morning by 6.30am?
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written October 2024
  It will be Nesuto Stadium Hotel, day01 is free time so you can arrive in the evening that is fine.
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written October 2024
  Mostly its breakfast that is included and one lunch but all will be buffet option. NOTE: some tour in Auckland start earlier so you will need to coordinate with the front desk to make you a breakfast box to go.
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written October 2024
  Yes, we can add an extra night in Christchurch once you book the tour we can send a separate booking link.
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written October 2024
  The hotel will be Sudima Christchurch airport hotel and they have the airport shuttle so you can coordinate with the front desk for the airport drop-off.
M
Melanie
Asked on September 28th, 2024
What would be the price for adding one night of pre- and one night of post-accommodation? If they book these pre and post-nights, will they have airport transfers on those dates? Could you provide them with optional excursions to Christchurch? Can they request a vegetarian option for food? What meals are included in the package?
Accommodation
Flights / Transfers
Meals
Tour Details
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written September 2024
  YES we can book extra pre and post hotel stay, and YES airport transfer will be arranged accordingly and its included. The price will be $200 per room per night. Optional excursions to Christchurch include: Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour ($200/person) and Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour with lunch ($270). Mostly breakfast is included at the hotel stay, and they usually have continental type or buffet, and there will be Veg option.
P
Pamela
Asked on September 1st, 2024
Are airport transfers included in the tour?
Flights / Transfers
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written September 2024
  Airport transfers may be included based on your itinerary; please check regarding specific days.
R
Ryan
Asked on August 11th, 2024
Will I be able to have vegetarian gluten-free meals?
Meals
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written August 2024
  Sure, We can request for vegetarian meal where there is lunch included as per the itinerary (not sure abt gluten free). Breakfast is at the hotel so you may request the hotel accordingly as most of the day tour starts early so you can request a breakfast to go at the hotel reception.
T
Theodoris
Asked on August 3rd, 2024
How can I obtain information about insurance for the trip?
Travel Support
- Bucket List Group Travel LLCOperator•Written August 2024
  Insurance is mandatory and can be purchased through any provider, though options vary in coverage and cost.

From

US $3,990 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 204593

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
New Zealand
Visa
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
Payment information
- For any tour departing before July 5th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after July 5th, 2026, a minimum payment of 30% is required to confirm your booking with Bucket List Group Travel LLC. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and Bucket List Group Travel LLC will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
- The following cards are accepted for "Bucket List Group Travel LLC" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
- Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
- TourRadar is an authorized Agent of Bucket List Group Travel LLC. Please familiarize yourself with the Bucket List Group Travel LLC payment, cancellation and refund conditions.
Accessibility
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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NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands

Itinerary

Auckland

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Auckland to Rotorua

Included Activities

Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Auckland to Queenstown

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Queenstown - Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Included Activities

Queenstown to Franz Josef

Included Activities

Franz Josef Free Day

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Franz Josef to Christchurch via TranzAlpine Train

Included Activities

Christchurch Departure

Included Activities

Want to read it later?

What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

Want to read it later?

Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Good to Know

Similar Tours

Keep Exploring New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands

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

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Want to read it later?

What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

Want to read it later?

Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Earn while you share

Good to Know

Similar Tours

Keep Exploring New Zealand

Like this Moment?