Top New Zealand Classes & Workshops

Ideal for thrill seekers, this experience lets you take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River canyons. Experience adrenaline-fueled fun as the jet boat skims the water’s surface at high speed and fishtails into 360-degree spins. Hold on tight as the captain maneuvers the jet boat over rapids and through narrow canyons during one heart-pounding adventure you won’t soon forget.

Driving Creek’s pottery classes offer an authentic, hands-on creative experience in one of New Zealand’s most iconic pottery settings. Built on the legacy of Barry Brickell and a thriving community of local artists, these workshops invite you to slow down, connect, and create with clay surrounded by native forest. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced potter, you’ll learn real techniques in a working studio that continues to inspire generations of makers. Every class directly supports Driving Creek’s not-for-profit mission to nurture creativity, art, and the environment.

Explore Fiordland National Park's Doubtful Sound on this full-day cruise from Manapouri. Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, then a short coach journey over Wilmot Pass, with stunning views. Cruise the 25-mile (40-kilometer) stretch of Doubtful Sound, looking out for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins while listening to your naturalist guide’s commentary. A highlight is when the engines are cut so you can appreciate the silence.

Sip and savor your way around Waiheke Island on this small-group wine tasting tour with a local guide. Enjoy pickup from the ferry or your accommodations and travel by air-conditioned vehicle, soaking up the scenic views and learning about the island and its inhabitants on the drive. Visit three different vineyards for wine tastings and food pairings, and enjoy a shared platter lunch with a glass of wine.

Take a scenic round-trip or one-way journey through the wilds of New Zealand’s South Island on the Taieri Gorge railway from Dunedin. Departing from downtown Dunedin’s attractive railway station, you'll gaze out over ever-changing corners of the New Zealand countryside inaccessible by road. With informative and entertaining live commentary on board, gain insight into the railway’s construction and the challenges faced by engineers—in addition to the epic views.

Skip the taxi line or car rentals on arrival at Auckland Airport with a handy shared arrival transfer to your Auckland hotel by comfortable minivan. Simply book your transport, look out for the meeting spot outside the arrivals hall, and begin your hassle-free vacation with a professional and courteous driver. Airport transfers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so are ready whenever you land.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to create a gruesome wound and use prosthetic effects to apply it to your arm? Learn the art of crafting convincing special effects by mixing blood and sculpting your own scars and scrapes at our Intro to SFX workshop.

Discover Waiheke Island's wine scene on a small-group tour starting at Matiatia Ferry Terminal. Visit Oneroa Village for coffee, then explore family-owned boutique wineries off the beaten path along native bush-lined roads. Taste up to 15 premium handcrafted wines from sustainable vineyards, enjoy lunch options, and experience the island's authentic charm in a relaxed setting.

Tour Napier’s distinctive Art Deco heritage in style on this vintage car tour of the city. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to the 1930s as you drive past some of the city’s must-see buildings in a vintage Packard car. Your local guide will tell you all about the earthquake of 1931 and the Art Deco architecture that emerged afterwards, so you can just relax in the back seat.

- Learn to surf at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand’s most iconic and beginner-friendly beach. - Enjoy small group sizes (max 8) for personalised guidance from expert, certified instructors. - Perfect for beginners, with step-by-step lessons in a safe, fun, and supportive environment. - All equipment provided, including surfboard and wetsuit—just bring swimwear and a towel. - Gain ocean awareness and master essential techniques, from paddling to standing on your board. - Create unforgettable memories as you connect with the ocean and ride your first waves. - Experience the thrill of surfing while surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

Appreciate the majesty and scale of Franz Josef and Fox glaciers from the air during a 30-minute helicopter flight and snow landing. Enjoy aerial views over both glaciers from your prime position in the sky, and hear live commentary from the pilot before landing atop one of the glaciers. Then hop out to get a better view of one of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes.

Experience the best of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula without trailing around after a large group when you take an easy small-group shore excursion from Port Chalmers. See city highlights—such as the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and Olveston House on a guided tour featuring all original furnishings—as well as Larnach Castle gardens on the peninsula. Note that entrance to the castle interior is not included.

A Taste of New Zealand, A Walk Through Resilience Discover Christchurch through its flavours, stories, and the remarkable spirit that rebuilt a city. This guided walking food tour blends New Zealand’s iconic dishes with the powerful history of the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, creating an experience that is both delicious and deeply meaningful. As we stroll through the city’s beautifully restored streets, you’ll hear captivating stories of the quake, the community’s recovery, and the innovative spirit that shaped the Christchurch you see today. This tour is designed to satisfy your appetite while deepening your connection to Christchurch—its past, its people, and its vibrant culinary culture. Join us for a journey where every bite comes with a story, and every step reveals a city that rose stronger than ever.

Bring a fantastical character to life: Be led through sculpting basics by Wētā Workshop crew & bring a 3D character to life! Learn how to craft a sculpture: From household materials and modelling clay. Take your sculpture home to finish and display!

Perfect for photography lovers, enjoy a full-day private photography tour in Queenstown and the surrounding area. Start your day in charming Queenstown and then head further afield. The exact itinerary is up to you, but possible destinations include Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka, Skippers Canyon and more. Your guide is a local photographer, so will be able to give you lots of advice on how to get the best shots.

Combine three of New Zealand’s most popular attractions on this 2-day tour from Auckland. Step into Middle Earth on a tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from "The Lord of the Rings," explore the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua, and cruise through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This great-value tour includes hotel pickup, some meals, and overnight accommodation in Rotorua.

Leave the planning and driving to a train conductor while you travel on the Northern Explorer, a long-distance scenic train service running from Auckland to Wellington. Experience the beauty and variety of New Zealand—from the farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast—while riding a comfortable train. A great way to trade the grind of vacation travel for a bit of romance.

• Ride real off-road terrain on a private 650-acre property, 5 minutes from central Queenstown - hill climbs, creek crossings, and forest trails with sweeping canyon and lake views • Two sessions to match your experience: trail riding on challenging terrain for the competent rider, or a fully coached introduction to dirt bikes on purpose-built training tracks for those just starting out • Guided by award-winning, expert instructors who adapt the session to your ability - groups are kept small and intimate for a personal experience • Full MX gear fitted on-site before you ride - helmet, goggles, gloves, chest protector, knee/shin guards, and kidney belt • Complimentary photos and return transfers from central Queenstown included - no licence required, minimum age 10

Unleash your creativity at the Stencil Portrait Workshop, where you’ll design a striking portrait using vibrant colors and custom stencils. This two-hour session welcomes all skill levels, providing step-by-step guidance to help you craft a unique masterpiece. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with drinks and a shared platter while creating your art on an A3 canvas panel. With limited spots available, this workshop ensures personalized attention, allowing you to fully explore your artistic expression and take home your finished piece.

Immerse yourself in the art of gin-making with this unique 3-hour distilling workshop in Queenstown. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, explore an extensive range of botanicals and uncover the storied history of gin. Craft your own recipe, enjoy a tasting board, and design a signature cocktail to savor. Each participant leaves with a personalized 500ml bottle of their creation, complete with a custom label designed during the session. Snacks and a welcome cocktail enhance your journey into the world of gin, making it a perfect outing for friends or a special gift.

Rangiora airfield is the most efficient place in canterbury for learning to fly. There are no delays dealing with air traffic or controlled airspace and the mountains and other training areas are right on our doorstep. This means you can get straight into the fun stuff and maximize your time in the aircraft. Safety is our number one priority and you will be flying with a highly qualified and experienced instructor who has taught dozens of people how to fly helicopters. If you would like to do something a bit different we can easily customize this flight to include a mountain landing or a specific point of interest.

Whether you’re honeymooning in Queenstown or just want some beautiful photos with your partner, this private couples photoshoot will make sure you have pictures you’re proud to display. Visit several beautiful locations that provide ideal backdrops for your photos. The shoot is flexible and can be customized to suit your needs.

Enjoy a unique opportunity to visit the home of a local and cook delicious vegetarian cuisine with this private cooking class. Step into the beautiful 140-year old villa of your host Anna and learn to cook a range of vegetarian dishes in her wonderful kitchen. After you have finished cooking, enjoy your meal alongside the family at either the dining table or, in summertime, on the vine-covered deck.