Summer 15 Day Adventure NZ Tour

New Zealand5 Dec - 19 Dec '2615 days

Overview

Location
New Zealand
Departure
Auckland
Dates
5 Dec 2026 - 19 Dec 2026
Price
$3,499.00

Description

The Student Tours' 15-day Adventure Tour offers an unforgettable journey through New Zealand, showcasing the best of both the North and South Islands. With experienced guides leading the way, students will explore pristine beaches, lush forests, and towering mountains while immersing themselves in New Zealand’s rich culture. This tour is designed to provide a blend of adventure, education, and cultural connection. Through engaging activities and shared experiences, students will not only discover the beauty of Aotearoa/New Zealand but also create lasting friendships with peers from across the globe.

Booking

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Itinerary

Day
01
Auckland - Coromandel
Kick off your New Zealand adventure as everyone arrives in Auckland from different parts of the country. Once the whole group has come together, we’ll hit the road and make our way towards the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery along the way. Our destination is the famous Hot Water Beach, where you’ll get the chance to dig your own natural hot tub in the sand and relax in the warm geothermal waters. We’ll finish the day with a classic Kiwi BBQ, enjoying great food, good vibes and getting to know everyone. An awesome way to bring the group together and start the adventure!
Day
02
Coromandel
Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning with breakfast and some free time to soak up the beautiful Coromandel surroundings. We’ll then head out to explore one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal spots, Cathedral Cove, where you can take in the stunning scenery, enjoy the beach and snap some amazing photos. Afterwards, we’ll make our way to Hahei for a relaxed lunch before heading back to Hot Water Beach to enjoy more time at this unique destination. Spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing on the beach or digging your own natural hot pool before another evening together in the Coromandel.
Day
03
Coromandel - Rotorua
After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to the Coromandel and make our way towards Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal and Māori culture. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, there will be the option to take part in an exciting white-water rafting experience along the way. Once in Rotorua, we’ll have some time to explore the town and take in its unique atmosphere before heading to a traditional Māori marae. Here, we’ll experience a warm cultural welcome (pōwhiri), enjoy a traditional hāngī dinner cooked in the ground and learn more about Māori traditions and culture. We’ll finish the evening by relaxing in the natural hot pools under the stars – a truly special Kiwi experience!
Day
04
Rotorua - Turangi
Today is all about adventure, exploring and discovering more of New Zealand! We’ll kick things off with an optional ZORB experience, where the brave can jump inside a giant inflatable ball and roll their way down the hills. For everyone else, there’ll be some free time to explore Rotorua, check out the local shops or simply relax and enjoy the town. Next, we’ll head to the incredible Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, home to colourful geothermal pools, bubbling mud and some seriously unique volcanic landscapes. From there, we’ll make our way to Taupō, where we can check out the famous Huka Falls and enjoy the lakeside scenery before continuing south to Tūrangi, our home for the night.
Day
05
Turangi - Wellington
Time to hit the road as we leave Tūrangi behind and make our way south to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington! After taking in some incredible scenery along the drive, we’ll arrive in the city and head straight out to explore. We’ll visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s famous national museum, where you can discover the country’s history, culture and some fascinating exhibits. Next up, we’ll jump aboard the iconic Wellington Cable Car for amazing views across the city and harbour. There’ll be plenty of time to wander through the city, grab some food and explore before settling into our accommodation for the night. Welcome to Wellington!
Day
06
Wellington - Kaikoura
Time for another exciting chapter of our Kiwi adventure as we hop aboard the ferry and cruise across the Cook Strait to New Zealand’s stunning South Island! Keep your cameras ready, as the ferry journey offers some incredible views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. Once we arrive in Picton, we’ll hit the road and follow the spectacular coastal highway towards Kaikōura, one of New Zealand’s best spots for marine wildlife. After arriving, we’ll head out on an epic coastal walk, keeping our eyes peeled for seals, seabirds and maybe even dolphins out in the ocean! With incredible mountain and ocean views around every corner, it’s the perfect introduction to the South Island.
Day
07
Kaikoura - Abel Tasman National Park
Wake up in beautiful Kaikōura with an exciting morning of optional marine wildlife adventures! Students can choose between two unforgettable experiences: swimming with wild dolphins, getting into the ocean for an up-close encounter, or whale watching, heading out by boat to spot some of the ocean’s most incredible giants. Both activities offer a unique opportunity to experience New Zealand’s amazing marine wildlife. Students who choose not to take part in either activity can enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Kaikōura. Once all activities are finished, we’ll regroup, jump back on the bus and make our way north towards the stunning Abel Tasman region, ready for the next part of our adventure!
Day
08
Abel Tasman National Park
Today we’re heading into the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water and beautiful coastal scenery! Students can choose their own adventure for the day, with the option to jump into a kayak and explore the coastline from the water, discovering hidden bays and beautiful beaches along the way. For everyone else, we’ll lace up our walking shoes and head off together on an awesome coastal hike, exploring the national park on foot and stopping along the way to enjoy the incredible views, take photos and soak up the sunshine. Whether by kayak or on foot, it’s going to be an unforgettable day in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks!
Day
09
Abel Tasman National Park - Greymouth
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled morning in the Abel Tasman region! For those brave enough, there’s the option to take the ultimate leap of faith with an unforgettable skydiving experience, taking in some incredible views of New Zealand from thousands of feet in the air. For everyone else, enjoy a relaxed morning and some extra time exploring the beautiful surroundings. Once we’re all back together, we’ll hit the road and make our way down the spectacular West Coast towards Greymouth. Along the way, we’ll stop at the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki, where you can explore the incredible limestone formations and watch the ocean crash dramatically against the coastline. After a big day of adventure and sightseeing, we’ll continue on to Greymouth to settle in for the night.
Day
10
Greymouth - Fox Glacier
Today we’ll continue our journey down the spectacular West Coast, heading from Greymouth towards Fox Glacier! Along the way, we’ll stop in Hokitika to visit a traditional greenstone (pounamu) shop, where you can learn about this special Māori stone and pick up a unique Kiwi souvenir. Once we arrive in Fox Glacier, the afternoon is all about exploring this incredible alpine region. For those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there’ll be the option to jump aboard a scenic helicopter flight and take in breathtaking views of the glaciers and Southern Alps from above. For everyone else, we’ll head out together on some epic walks around Fox Glacier, exploring the beautiful rainforest and surrounding landscapes. As the sun goes down, we’ll finish the day with a magical glowworm walk, discovering these amazing little creatures lighting up the forest at night!
Day
11
Fox Glacier - Queenstown
Buckle up for another incredible road trip as we leave Fox Glacier and make our way towards the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown! Today is all about spectacular scenery, with plenty of stops along the way to take photos, explore and enjoy the amazing landscapes of the South Island. We’ll make a stop in the beautiful lakeside town of Wānaka, where you can stretch your legs, grab some lunch and check out the famous Wānaka Tree. After taking in the views, we’ll continue our journey through the stunning Southern Alps before arriving in Queenstown. But the fun doesn’t stop there! We’ll kick off our Queenstown experience with a visit to the famous Ice Bar, followed by a night of dancing and fun as we settle into the adventure capital of New Zealand!
Day
12
Queenstown
Today is all about making the most of everything Queenstown has to offer! We’ll kick things off together with a visit to the famous Kawarau Bridge Bungy, where everyone can watch the action and soak up the adrenaline at the home of commercial bungy jumping! Afterwards, the day is yours to choose your own adventure. For those chasing an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of optional activities to choose from, including jet boating, the Nevis Canyon Swing, paragliding and the Skyline Gondola for incredible views over Queenstown. Not feeling quite so adventurous? No problem! We’ll also have a separate programme planned, with plenty of fun activities and opportunities to explore Queenstown without taking part in the big adrenaline experiences. Whatever you choose, there’s something for everyone today!
Day
13
Milford Sound
Get ready for one of the absolute highlights of our New Zealand adventure! Today we’re heading out on an epic road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound, travelling through some of the most breathtaking scenery the country has to offer. Along the way, we’ll pass towering mountains, beautiful lakes, dramatic valleys and incredible waterfalls, with plenty of scenic stops to jump off the bus and capture some amazing photos. Once we arrive at Milford Sound, we’ll jump aboard a spectacular scenic cruise, exploring the famous fjord, getting up close to enormous waterfalls and keeping our eyes peeled for seals, dolphins and penguins. After our cruise and some unforgettable views, we’ll make the journey back to Queenstown, taking in even more of the incredible scenery. It’s a big day, but one that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
Day
14
Queenstown - Christchurch
Today we say goodbye to Queenstown as we begin our journey north towards Christchurch! We’ll hit the road and travel through some of the South Island’s most spectacular landscapes, passing beautiful lakes, rolling countryside and impressive mountain ranges along the way. Around lunchtime, we’ll stop in the stunning town of Lake Tekapo, where you’ll have time to grab some food, explore the lakeside and take in the incredible turquoise-blue water with the Southern Alps as a backdrop. After lunch and plenty of photos, we’ll jump back on the bus and continue our journey to Christchurch, where we’ll settle in for our final evening together before wrapping up an unforgettable New Zealand adventure!
Day
15
Christchurch - Home
And just like that, our incredible New Zealand adventure comes to an end! After breakfast, we’ll say our final goodbyes, share some last memories and make sure everyone is ready for their journey home. We’ll then help everyone get to the airport or bus station for their onward travels. From epic road trips and adrenaline-filled activities to unforgettable cultural experiences and new friendships, it’s been one hell of an adventure.

What's Included

  • 14 Breakfasts & Dinners (the full tour)
  • Epic Accommodation Every Night
  • Milford Sound Cruise (one of the most beautiful places in NZ)
  • Gold Panning on the West Coast
  • A Marae overnight stay & Hangi (extremely special)
  • Natural Hot Pools
  • Wellington Cable Car
  • Pancake Rocks
  • Dance Party at an Ice Bar
  • Entrance to Te Papa Museum
  • Entrance to Wai O Tapu Thermal Village
  • Ferry Trip across the Cook Straight
  • Abel Tasman National Park
  • Dig Natural Hot Pools at Hot Water Beach
  • Experience a Kiwi BBQ
  • Pick Up and drop off at Airports at each end of the tour
  • Travel to locations you will remember forever!
  • Super experienced and fun guides!

Optional Activities

Kaitiaki River Rafting

We hold deep reverence for the people of the River – Ngāti Hinerangi and Ngāti Hinekiri – both those who grace the present and those who’ve walked the path before. In a landmark moment in 1999, Kaitiaki Adventures stood as pioneers, seeking the blessing of the hapū of Ngāti Pikiao to embark on commercial operations along their cherished awa – the river. This pivotal dialogue led to an understanding that endures; even today, we continue to proudly navigate the waters of Ōkere Awa, a testament to our enduring commitment.
From $129 (includes photos)
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Zorbing

Discover FOUR different ball rolling tracks – the world’s longest zig-zag Sidewinder Track, the smooth ‘n’ fast double Straight Track, MEGA Track – the longest, fastest and steepest track in all the land, and the Pipeline Track – which starts out with a wiggle, a weave, and then takes you whizzing through an arboreal tunnel! Think of it like a giant water slide, 40 litres of water (warm in winter, cool in summer) with no tumbling involved, just full on belly laughs from top to bottom. To this day, Rotorua is the ONLY location in New Zealand where you can experience this amazingly fun and bizarre bucket list activity.
From $50
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Whale Watching

Rare combinations of the perfect climate lure an abundance of marine wildlife, the most famous being the Giant Sperm Whale. It was a whale that led the Māori ancestor Paikea to New Zealand many centuries ago. His descendants live in Kaikōura today. Fittingly, the whale continues to guide the people of Kaikōura and the visitors they host.
From $95
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Dolphin Swimming

Imagine being eye to eye with a dusky dolphin! It is something incredibly special that these wild animals choose to stop and engage 1:1 with swimmers in the water. Dusky dolphins are probably the most interactive dolphin species; we don’t know why, and this sense of mystery makes the engagement with them all the more extraordinary!
From $240
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Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi

Abel Tasman AquaTaxi has been operating water taxi trips, sea shuttle services and scenic cruises in the Abel Tasman National Park since 1990. Experience the breath-taking beauty of the Abel Tasman from the comfort of our purpose-built, quiet and eco-friendly water taxis. AquaTaxi gets you closer to those out-of-the-way spots along the Abel Tasman coastline.
From $50
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Abel Tasman Ocean Kayaking

Our extensive range of trips will suit however you want to explore the Abel Tasman. Come explore the beautiful golden beaches, peaceful coves and lagoons, offshore islands, wildlife and the native forest fringing granite coastline that is the Abel Tasman!
From $140
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Abel Tasman Skydiving

Jump the best sky in New Zealand from the most scenic South Island drop zones in Abel Tasman, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, and Aoraki/Mount Cook at Pukaki! Feel a rush of adrenaline and awe as you experience spectacular natural scenery from deep blue oceans and snow-capped mountains, to green native forestry and national parks. All from the best place to see it – the sky! Get up here!
From $290
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Glacier Helicopter Flight

Franz Josef Glacier provides some of the most stunning ‘ice architecture’ of any Glacier in the world. The Glacier was in a state of advance until 2008 when it started retreating. Following a spectacular collapse of the terminal face in 2012, it is now only accessible by helicopter.
From $290
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Bungy Jumping

A bungy jump is a free-fall activity where you jump from a height while attached to an elastic rope or harness. It's a popular adrenaline sport that involves a leap of faith and the release of adrenaline. The Kawarau bridge is the first bridge in the world jumped from commercially!
From $280
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Shotover Jetboating

The only way to experience our Canyons, see their beauty and feel their power, is to come on a journey with us, the world’s most exciting jet boat ride. A unique combination of beauty and power, it’s an experience like no other, blending pristine natural landscape with wall to wall canyon action from start to finish!
From $120
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Canyon Swing

Welcome to the Shotover Canyon Swing. This is the World’s #1 Canyon Swing, ‘cos we invented it. No other is like ours; it’s the first, heaps of fun and it’s sh*t your pants scary. We’ve been locally owned and operated since 2002, so we’re pretty good at this. We give you the freedom; you can jump yourself or be released, no other swing can say the same.
From $309
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Gondola & Luging

Jump in the driver’s seat in this global thrill for all ages. Nestle into a Luge cart and wind your way through 1,600 meters of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and go again!
From $90
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Parasailing

Step aboard The Red Dragon, Queenstown's purpose-built parasail boat, and take off - straight from the deck, no swimming, no cold water. The winch pays you out gently until you're floating 600 feet above Lake Wakatipu, with the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and the whole of Queenstown laid out beneath your feet. Up there it's remarkably calm - quiet enough to hear yourself grin. Then the winch reels you softly back to the deck where you started, dry shoes and all. It's the gentlest thrill on the lake, and one of the most beautiful.
$139 Per Person (Tandem)
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Highlights

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