New Zealand Adventure

Duration icon 3 weeks
Location icon
Multi-Stop Adventure

Multiple stops. Big variety. Travel further, see more and experience the energy of constant discovery.

Experience the very best of New Zealand on an unforgettable 21-day adventure from Auckland to Queenstown.

Explore iconic destinations including Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, Hobbiton, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikōura, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Milford Sound, while experiencing the country's stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich Māori culture.

Along the way, relax in geothermal hot pools, go whale watching, and take in some of New Zealand's breathtaking scenery. With a mix of guided activities, free time, and opportunities for adventure, this trip is the perfect way to experience both the North and South Islands.

View Itinerary
Good to know
Light adventure.

Some easy physical activities included, but nothing too demanding. A basic level of fitness will do.

Creature comforts.

Clean, shared rooms at hotels or hostels in well-connected locations. Reliable facilities and easy access to amenities.

City & short escapes.

Mostly urban, with adventures and excursions beyond the city.

Our trips push you to go further – physically, mentally, and beyond – to spark discovery at every step. Perfect for first time travellers such as Gap Year or University students looking to explore New Zealand with a group of like-minded people!

Activities icon
Activities & Experiences

Push your limits. Try something new. Make it unforgettable.

  • Welcome Dinner + Drink

  • Auckland City Walk

  • Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach Day Trip

  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

  • Visit Huka Falls

  • Experience a traditional Maori Village at Te Pa Tu

  • Visit Hell’s Gate Geothermal Spa

  • Enjoy an after Catamaran Cruise on Lake Taupo and

  • Kaikoura Whale Watching Experience

  • Stargaze at a 2 night Lake Tekapo Retreat

  • Day trip to Mt Cook - New Zealand’s tallest mountain

  • Queenstown Bar Crawl

  • Day trip to 8th wonder of the world - Milford Sound

Accommodation icon
Accommodation

Comfortable, characterful places to rest and recharge.

The tour includes 20 nights in shared flashpacker-style dorm accommodation at well-reviewed hostels, lodges, cabins, and unique retreats. Rooms will be mixed gender dorm rooms sleeping 4-12 people. You can expect free WiFi throughout and breakfast included at select properties.

Trip leader icon
Group Leader

Expert support from start to finish.

You will be supervised by an experienced Group Leader throughout the tour. Your group leader is there to guide you, provide support, and ensure everything runs smoothly. They will share local knowledge, and help you get the most out of your New Zealand adventure. You'll also be accompanied by other group members, creating a fun, social atmosphere throughout the trip.

Itinerary

Week 1

Auckland - Hot Water Beach - Hobbiton

Day 1-2

The adventure begins in Auckland! Start the tour by getting to know your fellow travellers with a delicious Welcome Dinner.

Day 3

Head over to Cathedral Cove, famous for its stunning natural arch and incredible photo opportunities. Later, visit Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own geothermal hot pool in the sand.

Day 4

Step into the world of Middle-earth on a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Day 5-6

Welcome to Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal and cultural capital.

Week 2

Wellington - Kaikōura - Christchurch

Day 7-8

Next up is Taupō, home to New Zealand’s largest lake and some of the country’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Day 9-12

Before crossing over into the South Island, you'll get to spend time in Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital. You'll then cross over by ferry and start your journey South in Kaikōura.

Day 13-15

Next up is Christchurch and Lake Tekapo! Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and famous for having some of the clearest night skies in the world, it's one of the best places on the planet for stargazing.

Week 3

Mount Cook - Queenstown - Milford Sound

Day 16

You’ll then head to the foothills of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, for a fully guided day trip through the stunning Southern Alps.

Day 17-20

The next five days are dedicated to Queenstown. Experience all that New Zealand's backpacker and adventure hub has to offer, including a day trip to Milford Sound.

Day 21

Today marks the end of your New Zealand adventure as you say goodbye to your new travel friends and this incredible country.

Dates & booking

Change payment currency:

Start date: Wednesday 9th September 2026

End date: Tuesday 29th September 2026

Duration: 21 days $3,800.00
Deposit $380.00

Start date: Wednesday 7th October 2026

End date: Tuesday 27th October 2026

Duration: 21 days $3,800.00
Deposit $380.00

Start date: Wednesday 4th November 2026

End date: Tuesday 24th November 2026

Duration: 21 days $3,800.00
Deposit $380.00

Start date: Wednesday 2nd December 2026

End date: Tuesday 22nd December 2026

Duration: 21 days $3,800.00
Deposit $380.00

What's Included

  • All listed activities

  • Group Leader

  • Pre-departure support

  • Ferry transport between North and South Islands

  • All accommodation for the duration of the trip

  • Intercity coach transport

  • 24/7 UK emergency back-up provided by Pharos Response

  • Financial Failure Protection

Not Included

  • Flights to and from start/finish point

  • Airport transfers

  • Travel insurance

  • Visa & vaccinations

  • Most meals

  • Optional excursions/activities

  • Spending money

  • Tips and Gratuities

When does the programme start and finish?

The tour starts at the group accommodation in Auckland at 6:00pm on Day 1 and will end at 10:00am on Day 21 in Queenstown. Your group leader can assist you with arrangements for a transfer to the airport or onward travel.

Spending money

Most meals are not included, however some hostels and activities do include select meals. Where not included, you’ll have the option to dine out at local restaurants or prepare your own meals along the way. As a guideline, we recommend budgeting $100 NZD a day for food, drink and activities.

How many others will be in my group?

The minimum group size is 8 and the maximum is 24.  Group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of approximately 10-20 people from all over the globe! Expect to meet fellow adventurers aged 18-35 from the UK, US, Canada, Europe, and beyond.

Want to know more about our New Zealand Adventure trip?

Thank you!
View your brochure below – we’ve also emailed it to you.

By submitting this form, you agree to Gapforce's privacy policy and to being contacted regarding this enquiry

Need help choosing?

Chat now

You can also check out our frequently asked questions

postcards

from previous trips

Hear the amazing experiences our travellers have had over the years.

It can be seen that this trip has held firsts for everyone, as it has enabled us to achieve things we thought we never would. Though each individual’s achievements have been appreciated and recognised, our achievements as a group have truly made this trip special — with new friendships made, trust built and memories to last a lifetime

Henry | south africa wildlife volunteering

Go Overseas Logo

Click here to read over 100 reviews about our programs on the independent service.

Small Groups

Small groups, big connections.

Life-changing Experiences

Experiences that shape you

Adding True Value to Travel

Travel with real purpose

GapForce for Good

Adventure that gives back

Start your adventure

View Dates & Prices