Top New Zealand Day Trips - page 31

The Denize Bluffs is a location used for numerous scenes in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, one of which was Trollshaws Forest. Visitors can take a tour with Hairy Feet Waitomo, taking in the sites of filming locations including Trollshaw Forest and more . The tour is fully guided and starts with a short drive through farmland before taking an easy walk around the sites used for filming. The guides pride themselves on making every tour a personalized experience and showing a true sense of what it means to be a New Zealander.

It's a remarkable journey of discovery that takes you from Auckland to one of the most spectacular parts of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands. This full-day tour offers breathtakingly ever-changing scenery, including vast landscapes, rugged mountain ranges and rain forests, clear blue oceans and seas, deep gorges and hills, and spectacular views of outstanding natural beauty.

The Coromandel Peninsula is a popular destination from Auckland, and you can see and do a lot in just one day on a private tour. Visit some of its top attractions, including the Thames Goldmine Experience and Driving Creek Pottery on the Driving Creek Railway. Learn about the peninsula’s history and admire its beautiful landscapes without having to self-drive.

Discover the hidden gems on the way to Mt. Cook. Our unique Mt. Cook Day Tour from Dunedin combines the iconic beauty of Aoraki Mt. Cook with fascinating stops you won't find on other tours. Explore the mysterious Moeraki Boulders, admire the Victorian architecture of Oamaru, and learn about Maori rock art, all in one unforgettable day.

Discover Auckland's coastal hidden gems on our North Shore tour! Explore scenic Shakespear Regional Park, relax on vast Long Bay beach, enjoy a brief stop in charming Browns Bay, and experience vibrant Takapuna with its famous Rangitoto views. See beautiful local favourites beyond the city buzz – book your North Shore adventure today!

Experience the beauty of New Zealand's South Island on a full-day tour from Dunedin to Queenstown, one of the country’s most iconic alpine towns. Enjoy a scenic drive through Central Otago’s stunning landscapes before arriving in Queenstown, where you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Your unique tour takes you off the beaten path to trek through the incredible tunnels and historic relics of Karangahake Gorge, where you'll walk in the footsteps of 19th-century gold miners amidst stunning native bush and dramatic river scenery. From this immersive historical adventure, you'll journey to the vibrant coastal city of Tauranga.

Discover the hidden treasures of Northland on this unforgettable journey! Begin your adventure with a guided tour through the magical Kawiti Glowworm Cave, where thousands of sparkling glowworms illuminate the limestone walls like a starry night sky. Learn about Māori legends and the natural wonder of these glowing creatures from local descendants of the Kawiti family. Afterward, unwind at Ngawha Springs, Northland’s best-kept secret — a geothermal haven filled with natural mineral-rich pools known for their healing and rejuvenating properties. Feel your stress melt away as you soak in the warmth of New Zealand’s natural spa surrounded by peaceful nature.

Step into a completely different world on the Milkyway Glowworm Cave Day Tour, departing comfortably from Auckland. This is not your typical commercial cave experience—it’s raw, untouched, and astonishingly beautiful, offering you a rare chance to stand beneath thousands of sparkling glowworms in a peaceful natural sanctuary. What to expect Departing Auckland in the morning, you’ll enjoy a comfortable scenic drive toward the beautiful Northland region. Upon arrival, your expert guide leads you into the Milkyway Glowworm Cave for a guided walk filled with stories, geology, and incredible glowworm encounters. No boats, no crowds—just an authentic Kiwi nature experience. After the cave visit, relax at one of Northland’s stunning coastal spots or local eateries before returning to Auckland with amazing memories.

Step into one of Northland’s most magical experiences as you explore the Milkyway Glowworm Cave, a peaceful underground wonder lit by thousands of sparkling blue glowworms. Unlike the crowded tourist caves, this intimate cave lets you get closer to nature, feel the quiet atmosphere, and enjoy a truly authentic glowworm encounter. After your cave adventure, unwind at Langs Beach, one of Northland’s most beautiful hidden gems. With its white sand, clear turquoise water, and calm, relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect place for swimming, beach walks, and stunning coastal photos.

Be picked you up from your pre-arranged location and experience a scenic drive in a luxury van with your own driver as your guide for the day. Drive south of Auckland towards the rural town of Clevedon. Indulge in the many artisan shops and cafes. Experience the majestic Hunua Falls with several easy walking trails to choose from. Drive along the beautiful Pohutukawa Coast, through Maraetai beach. Grab a coffee or ice cream, and take in the ocean views. Drive inland towards the town of Beachlands making our way back towards the city, stopping at Mission Bay to start your Bike Tour along the promenade. Refuel for a bistro lunch in Mission Bay. Return hire bikes, followed by a short drive back towards the city. Learn about NZ's national sport and the infamous All Blacks in a 90 minute tour at Sky City. Afterwards, go up Auckland's tallest structure and walk along the edge of the Sky tower. End on a high and soak in 360 degree views of the city, concluding the tour.

You get to have your own dedicated Driver Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy a 7-hour private tour from Wellington capturing the best Foodie Delights the Kapiti Coast has to offer. We take in the majestic vista of the Kapiti Coast from the top of Paekakariki Hill and then embark on our journey to experience a wide variety of Foodie Delights - Coffee, Olive Oil, Liqueurs & Spirits, Chocolates and Gelato! Note: For cruise ship passengers this tour will operate on a slightly reduced itinerary.

Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey through the Marlborough Sounds, blending adventure with refined indulgence. Begin your morning with a professionally guided kayaking experience, exploring the tranquil, sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound/Totaranui. Paddle past secluded coves, glide beneath native bush-clad hills, and encounter marine wildlife such as seals, rays, and native birdlife in their natural habitat.  Following your morning on the water, step aboard our catamaran for an exclusive afternoon seafood cruise. Relax in comfort as you cruise through the stunning waterways, enjoy sampling local seafood such as salmon, and Greenshell mussels, complemented by premium Marlborough wines available to purchase. Breathe in the fresh sea air, soak in breathtaking coastal vistas, and immerse yourself in the moment.

Embark on a full-day sightseeing luxury tour on our premium luxury vehicle from Auckland to see New Zealand's most famous attraction. Grab a great value Hobbiton Movie Set tour including a Buffet Lunch at the Party Marquee, the award-winning attraction made famous by the popular Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies where you'll see the intricately created 'Hobbit!

Whitecilffs Boulders are an eerie Boulder Garden sitting on the banks of the Rangitikei River. Lunching amongst these Boulders midway through a gentle drift down the river is a fantastic way to discover the Rangitikei. The trip begins right in front of our café and entails a gentle drift down to the Whitecliffs Boulders. Lunch is laid out while you explore the Boulder Garden. Once you have had your fill, of both lunch and the setting, we continue on downstream. We transport you back to the café after your trip for a snack and a cuppa!

A unique experience that give you a very personal view of the Bay of Islands and the sailing lifestyle. Sail on a yacht that is a live-aboard home and has a uniques pedigree and history all her own. Hear the stories and create your own special day with all the personal touches. We share our knowledge of sailing through the world and the stories of 24 years of chartering the Bay of Islands. you will feel comfortable and safe on the performance yacht that is unique in the Bay. make this the hightlight of your trip to New Zealand!

Discover Marlborough's rich farming heritage on this unique tour, showcasing a working sheep station that's been in the same family for five generations. Watch skilled sheepdogs in action and enjoy an up-close shearing demonstration while learning about the deep-rooted traditions of sheep farming. Savor a relaxing farmhouse morning tea before heading to a renowned winery restaurant for a delicious lunch paired with guided local wine tastings. The day wraps up with a delightful visit to Makana Chocolate Factory for something sweet. - Visit a family-owned sheep station with a rich history - Experience sheepdog demonstrations and shearing up close - Enjoy a leisurely lunch with local wine pairings at a winery restaurant - Conclude the day with a sweet treat at Makana Chocolate Factory

Marlborough is New Zealand’s premier wine region and a foodie hotspot, but self-driving between wineries is risky. Taste regional delicacies, gourmet cuisine, and fine wine on this private day tour from Blenheim, to avoid tour planning. Customize your itinerary with other activities, such as visits to the Omaka Air Museum, a local brewery, or a cruise around the Marlborough Sounds. Hotel pickup and round-trip transport are included for your convenience.

Explore Auckland’s natural landscapes and wildlife at a relaxed pace on this small group tour from Auckland's city centre. At your first stop of Mt Eden, walk the slopes of an extinct volcano and be rewarded with sweeping 360 degree views over Auckland. Next, head out to the west coast to discover dramatic black sand beaches and rugged coastal cliffs. Stroll easy coastal paths to viewpoints overlooking thousands of nesting Australasian gannets, with sweeping views of the Tasman Sea, then enjoy time to explore the beach below. Learn how Māori culture, volcanic geology, and powerful ocean forces have shaped this unique landscape. Lastly, enjoy a wine tasting at a small local winery, with the opportunity to stay for lunch, offering time to unwind before returning to the city via the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge. Please be aware that coastal locations are exposed and weather conditions can change. The gannets are present from August until late March.

Embark on an expedition across New Zealand's South Island, commencing from the historic Christchurch Railway Station. Prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration aboard the renowned TranzAlpine Railway, renowned as one of the world's most scenic train journeys. Highlights: Panoramic Train Journey: Departing from Christchurch, indulge in sweeping vistas of Canterbury's plains and distant peaks. Otira Viaduct Lookout: Witness the Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel spanning the rugged Otira Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall: Guided hike to witness the majestic Devil's Punchbowl waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade down sheer rock faces. Visitor Centre Exploration: Dive into the fascinating history and natural wonders of Arthur's Pass at the visitor center, uncovering insights into the region's flora, fauna, and Maori legends. Kea Encounter: Keep a lookout for the playful kea, the world's sole alpine parrot.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Dolphin Encounter Tour (approximately 4 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

Explore Kaikoura’s rugged scenery, wildlife and local food. Enjoy traveling in a carbon-neutral vehicle that doesn’t skimp on modern comforts while checking out hidden gems and views. Optional activities include whale watching, kayaking and nature walks. Satisfy your appetite with snacks, lunch and a wine or beer tasting before cruising back to Christchurch.

Explore the Marlborough region on a full-day tour that combines a visit to Havelock and the Queen Charlotte Sound with an afternoon wine tour. Motor along the scenic Queen Charlotte Drive and have lunch at a restaurant in Picton, then stop at four wineries for a comprehensive experience of New Zealand's famous Marlborough region wines.