Ancient Wonders Tours & Trips in New Zealand South Island
Explore a wide diversity of ancient wonders tours through New Zealand South Island. We have 18 adventures that vary from 5 days to 21 days. With the greatest number of departures in February, this is also the most popular time of the year.
10 best ancient wonders New Zealand South Island tours
Compiled by
MelissaNew Zealand South Island travel expert at TourRadar
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
“Breathtaking sights, great people and a well put together tour. I felt like I saw the best of what the South has to offer.”
Rebecca, traveled in December
Duration 16 days Destinations Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Foulwind, Westport, Punakaiki, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound, GlenorchySee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $2,699
25% off- US$2,024
New Zealand: Wild Coasts & Alpine Climbs
“The accommodation is one of the best parts because you get the opportunity to stay at some really cool places.”
Haylee, traveled in November
Duration 21 days Destinations Auckland, Raglan, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Foulwind, Westport, PunakaikiSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $3,799
25% off- US$2,849
Discover New Zealand
“An amazing trip, it was so much more than we expected and was good value. Every day was special.”
Sheila, traveled in April
Duration 18 days Destinations Auckland, Rangitoto Island, Rotorua, Huka Falls Resort, Tongariro National Park, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, Nelson, Motueka, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From
25% off- US$12,495
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Dunedin, Manapouri, Doubtful Sound, Queenstown, Walter Peak, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Hokitika Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Luxury Gold From
25% off- US$9,277
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Haast, Lake Hawea, Arrowtown, The Remarkables, Queenstown, Walter Peak, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator AAT Kings From $5,699
15% off- US$4,844
NZ Explorer
“All breakfasts and lunches were delicious, clean and could meet any dietary restrictions. All lodging accommodations were comfortable, central and clean.”
Elena, traveled in December
No departure dates availableDuration 10 days Destinations Queenstown, Glenorchy, Arrowtown, Kawarau Gorge, Cardrona, Wanaka, Lake Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef, Paparoa National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Adventure Junkies 
Duration 11 days Destinations Auckland, Dargaville, Waipoua Forest, Omapere, Paihia, Waitangi, Matakana, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, QueenstownSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator Wild Kiwi From
15% off- US$2,059+$314 upfront costs
NZ Adrenalin
“The total holiday was brilliant. Well organized, lots of fun.”
A, traveled in February
No departure dates availableDuration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Rakaia Gorge, Methven, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka, CardronaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Adventure Junkies 
No departure dates availableDuration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Methven, Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Twizel, Omarama, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te AnauSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Adventure Junkies South Island Showcase 2023
“I felt relaxed on the bus and thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the bus and taking in the breath taking views of New Zealand.”
Elizabeth, traveled in October
No departure dates availableDuration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Akaroa, Arthur's Pass National Park, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Cosmos
Explore our featured New Zealand South Island tours
TourRadar earns higher commission on featured adventures here.
What people love about Ancient Wonders Tours in New Zealand South Island
Breathtaking sights, great people and a well put together tour. I felt like I saw the best of what the South has to offer. Although it’s an amazing area of the world, I’m sure I’ll be back one day. I met some lovely people. CEO Robyn was an amazing organiser and was the best!
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
- New Zealand: Wild Coasts & Alpine Climbs
The tour is a once in a life time opportunity, packed with plenty of amazing activities. My CEO, Jemma made all the difference, not only being a great guide she went above and beyond for everyone on my bus.
The Tour Operator (Exodus Adventure) answered all my questions pre-departure, provided an unbelievably friendly and experienced tour leader and followed the itinerary that lived up to all my expectations. Weather was expected to be wet on a few days but the tour leader changed the timing of the walks to make best use of gaps in the less pleasant weather and avoid having to walk in anything worse than short showers or very fine rain. The choice of walks was excellent in terms of the scenery, views and wildlife that we were able to experience. Some of the walks were quite strenuous but still enjoyable taken at a reasonable pace but then the tour was aimed at experienced hikers. Some of the accommodation was a bit basic and could be improved - the least good were those that were selected as alternatives to those advertised. But this was not advertised or priced as a luxury tour so does not alter the five star rating.
Discover New Zealand
More about New Zealand South Island
Ancient WondersNew Zealand North IslandMilford SoundAoraki Mount CookSouthern Alps