New Zealand Multisport
22 days, Auckland to Christchurch
Itinerary Notes
1. Please note that when in Franz Josef optional activities may be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.
3. Please note that during your Karangahake Gorge Cycling excursion on Day 2 of your adventure, an E-bike upgrade is available at an additional cost of NZ $50. This can be arranged with the CEO on Day 1 of the trip at the welcome meeting.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Bookings for the America’s Cup are at either 11am, 1pm or 2pm - this is dependant on the season and availability. Please be sure to reconfirm your sailing 24 hours prior by phoning Explore (while in New Zealand): 0800 397 567 or International: +64 9 359 5987.
Itinerary
Day 1Auckland
Arrive at any time.
Jump right into your adventure by adding the 'Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience' extra to your tour. Work with a crew to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbouron a competitive yacht, and take in the stunning views. PLEASE NOTE: If booking this extra, a pre-night in Auckland is highly recommended as this activity may start early in the morning on Day 1.
If you are interested in visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set, we recommended that you book additional pre-trip accommodations and purchase a day trip from Auckland on (or prior to) Day 1 of this tour. OR, you can opt to wait until your tour begins, and book a ticket with your CEO (please note that there are limited tickets on the ground - which could result in you missing out if you wait to book with your CEO).
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Waiheke Island Excursion
45-130NZD per personTake a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).
Hobbiton Tour
112NZD per personEnjoy a 2-hour movie set tour and see where major scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed.
Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour)
195NZD per personAs part of the boat crew, you'll work together with your teammates to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour in this competitive yacht. Either take the helm and participate or sit back and enjoy the spectacle - the choice is yours.
Day 2Auckland/Rotorua
Enjoy a morning cycle through Karangahake Gorge, then travel to the Rotorua region to the Tamaki Maori Village. After a traditional greeting on the marae (meeting grounds), learn the arts of the haka and poi before a traditional hangi dinner.
In the evening visit a Maori village for traditional ceremonies, a Hangi meal and entertainment. After dinner, lounge by the bonfire and have some time to get to know the Maori hosts.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Karangahake Gorge Cycling
Enjoy beautiful scenery on this interesting ride through Karangahake Gorge that combines history, nature, and adventure all in one trip! Follow the historic Paeroa to Waihi rail line. Cycle old lines and through a tunnel along the river that runs through the gorge. Take it easy, if you wish – this trail is suitable for cyclists with little experience and offers lots to take in on the way.
Please note that an E-bike upgrade is available at an additional cost of NZ $50. This can be arranged with the CEO on Day 1 of the trip at the welcome meeting.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Local Living Moment: Maori Village Overnight Visit
Visit the Mitai Maori Village. Receive the traditional Powhiri welcome ceremony followed by a captivating stage performance explaining Maori history and culture. For dinner, enjoy a traditional Hangi meal, similar to the Hawaiian Luau, with dishes cooked in the ground. After, enjoy some quiet time with our Maori hosts by a fire.
Day 3Rotorua
Enjoy a free day in Rotorua, a town in a geothermal area with boiling mud and hot pools. Opt to go whitewater rafting, tackle an off road mountain bike track, go hiking, or hit the spa.
This region of New Zealand is renowned for its geothermal qualities. Enjoy free time to experience the regions' geothermal wonders. Opt to mountain bike in the world famous Redwood Forest, go white water rafting, or indulge in the therapeutic hot springs.
Free Time
Enjoy free time in Rotorua to enjoy one of the many optional activities available in the area.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Mountain Biking
35-130NZD per personHead out on an exhilarating cycling adventure. Explore the stunning Redwood Forest on two wheels on what some call the world's best mountain biking trails. Whether you're a beginner or expert mountain bike enthusiast there's sure to be a trail perfect for you.
Whakarewarewa Geothermal Village Visit
35-60NZD per personVisit an authentic Maori Geothermal Village. With a local guide, follow the path past bubbling mud pits and mineral pools with different fluorescent coloured water. Learn how geothermal energy is used around the village and hear the history of the area. Just try to ignore the sulfurous smell; that's just Mother Earth making magma magic.
Zorbing
45-75NZD per personHop into a giant inflatable ball and take a thrilling ride down Mt Ngongotaha. This outrageously fun and bizarre ride is a must-do when in Rotorua, so don't miss out!
Hells Gate Geothermal Park
35-90NZD per personExperience a unique Maori owned geothermal, cultural, and geothermal mud bath spa, with erupting waters, steaming fumaroles and pools of boiling mud.
Hobbiton Tour
112NZD per personEnjoy a 2-hour movie set tour and see where major scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed.
Whitewater Rafting
125NZD per personGet your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating white water rafting trip. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don't forget to paddle!
Hot Springs
45-75NZD per personSoak tired muscles in the area's natural hot springs and let the mineral water work its magic. Rotorua is home to a number of amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Rotorua/Tongariro National Park
Conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek and spend time hiking an active volcano.
Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery. Start early and collect supplies before heading out. The transfer will drop the group off at the beginning of the self-guided trek and collect everyone at the other end. After the trek, travel to a ski lodge on the side of a mountain for the night and opt for a hot soak to ease those tired muscles.
Note: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trek is highly weather dependent and will take place only if conditions are safe to do so. Alternate activities for inclement weather will be arranged.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trek
Today we conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek and spend time hiking an active volcano. Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 5Whanganui National Park
Admire the scenery while heading to Whanganui National Park.
Travel to Blue Duck Station, a working farm and nature conservancy that serves as our gateway to Whanganui National Park.
Marvel at the Whanganui River - the third longest in New Zealand - as it flows out to the west coast of the North Island from Mt Tongariro. Learn about the region's natural history, conservation efforts for indigenous wildlife (including the endangered New Zealand blue duck) and Blue Duck Station's sustainable farming practices.
Note: While in Whanganui National Park, the order and length of activities on Days 5 & 6 may vary according to weather conditions.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 6Whanganui National Park
Experience another of New Zealand's "Great Walks" (this time, from a canoe) on a day trip into the heart of Whanganui National Park. Explore the Whanganui River further by jet boat, visiting old Maori and European settlements.
During short walks or stops en route, learn about the region's history and local conservation efforts. If weather permits, head out for a visit to the abandoned Bridge to Nowhere. Return to Blue Duck Station for the night. Enjoy a delicious dinner.
Note: While in Whanganui National Park, the order and length of activities on Days 5 & 6 may vary according to weather conditions.
Whanganui River Journey
Grab a paddle and life jacket and journey along the famous Whanganui River – New Zealand's third longest river. Soak in the wildlife and scenery, seemingly untouched by modern day. It's a great way to unwind and pack in a little more Kiwi adventure. (Note: actual distance and time of the paddle may vary according to weather conditions.)
Whanganui River Jet Boating
Have fun and hold on! Fulfill your need for speed travelling down the amazingly scenic Whanganui River by jet boat.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 7Whanganui National Park/Raglan
Travel north to the small town of Waitomo, located near an extensive underground cave system. Enjoy a free afternoon, and opt to tour the caves by boat, by foot or with a bit of adrenaline by rappelling into them. Continue on to Raglan for the night, and enjoy the sunset in this stunning coastal town.
Free Time
Take part in one of the optional activities around Waitomo.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Waitomo TumuTumu Toobing (Black Water Rafting)
185NZD per personGrab a wetsuit, helmet and gumboots, and float, scramble, swim and walk your way through a subterranean playground! A good challenge but not as difficult as Haggas Honking Holes.
Waitomo Lost World Cave Abseil
465NZD per personFeel like the hero of your own action movie on this tour that involves a 100m (328 ft) abseil (rappel) into the Lost World with a guide at your side. Be awed by the beauty of an iconic cavern that’s covered in glittering glow-worms. After a 30-min descent, embark on a journey back to the surface through a spectacular dry cavern. Relish in your accomplishments (and added confidence) afterwards with some good food and drink.
Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes
220NZD per personGet your fix of adrenaline and fun on this underground action adventure. Do a series of abseils, rock climbs, crawls, and cruises as you explore the fabulous Waitomo caves in an action-packed 4 hrs. See stalactites, stalagmites, and glow-worms up close.
Waitomo Valley Walk
FreeExplore Waitomo Valley’s amazing rugged landscape by foot on this one-way walk - the CEO will see you off at the start. Check out a small cave on your way, and then follow the trail through the forest back to Waitomo Village. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, and take a rain jacket and water.
Waitomo Cave Excursion
90NZD per personEnjoy a peaceful boat ride through 30 million year old caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves carved by rivers and time. Take in more than 136 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Waitomo to Christchurch via Auckland.
In the morning, transfer to Auckland and hop on a flight to the South Island. Opt to explore Christchurch, or meet new members of the group at an optional welcome meeting.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Christchurch/Kaikoura
Transfer to Kaikoura, with a free afternoon to explore the area or take in an optional activity.
Early start to drive the scenic coastal road up to Kaikoura.
A free afternoon can also be spent swimming or taking a scenic flight over the peninsula. Bird watchers will be pleased to know that big ocean birds such as albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters frequent the area.
Hikers can opt to go on several day hikes in the Seaward Kaikoura mountains.
Private Vehicle
Drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura
Free Time
A free afternoon can be spent visiting a colony of Southern Fur seals, or taking a scenic flight over the peninsula. Bird watchers will be pleased to know that big ocean birds such as albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters frequent the area.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Hiking
FreeSet off along the hiking trail to take in the beautiful scenery along the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway.
Sea Kayaking
140NZD per personGet to know your surroundings better from the water and sea kayak near Kaikoura.
Scenic Flight
225NZD per personTake a 30-minute flight and set off to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. On land, you'll see Maori sites, Kaikoura town and New Zealand's southern fur seals.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Kaikoura/Nelson
Take in the scenery of the South Island while travelling to New Zealand's sunshine capital, Nelson. Sample some local produce and wine as you travel through the renowned Marlborough wine region. Enjoy free time to explore upon arrival.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 11Nelson
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by boat, sea kayak and on foot. After a full day of exploring, reward your efforts with a well earned meal at one of Nelson's gourmet eateries.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Water Taxi
Enjoy a scenic transfer via water taxi into the heart of Abel Tasman National Park.
Abel Tasman National Park Hike
Explore the beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by foot.
Kayaking to Marahau
See Abel Tasman National Park at a pleasant pace by sea kayak. Take part in a safety briefing and preparation, then head out into the water to glide in and out of the bays and islets on the route to Marahau. Look for nesting seabirds and tiny islands, and enjoy amazing views along the way.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 12Nelson/Lake Brunner
Enjoy the scenery of the mountainous coastal Westland region, and stop en route to see the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.
Seal Colony Visit
Stop by a viewing platform over a New Zealand fur seal colony at Cape Foulwind. Female seals will live in the same colony for the duration of their lives, whereas male seals move around more. The males visit the Cape Foulwind colony between late November and mid-January for mating season. All seasons offer plenty of activity to check out, from mating to the raising of baby pups and feeding out at sea.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Pancake Rocks Trek
Walk along a loop trail with informative signs detailing how the 'Pancake Rocks' were formed millions of years ago. When the trail reaches the coast, there are many lookouts for photo stops and beautiful views of the coast, the rocks and the blowholes found along the area.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Lake Brunner/Franz Josef
Transfer to Franz Josef, stopping for a walk at the wildlife mecca of Okarito Lagoon en route. Enjoy free time for optional activities such as hiking and checking out the stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Continue south along the coast towards Franz Josef, stopping for an invigorating walk at the wildlife mecca of Okarito Lagoon. Spend 2 nights staying amongst verdant temperate rainforest.
Okarito Lagoon Walk
Walk through the wetlands of Okarito Lagoon, bordered by forest and surrounded by nature. Enjoy spectacular views all the way up to the mountains on a clear day. Take the time to soak in the scenery – the walk is a short climb up to a viewpoint that includes a variety of landscapes on the path through the estuary out through the wetlands.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Franz Josef
A free day for optional activities. Options include a helicopter hike, a glacier valley walk, kayaking as well as the unique and stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Franz Josef, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a glacial hike or a helicopter hike. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk
79NZD per personEnjoy spectacular views on a guided interpretive walk that follows a riverbed along the Franz Josef Glacier's retreat. At the end, you'll be rewarded with a great view of the glacier off in the distance.
Hiking
FreeTake your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.
Heli Scenic Flight with Snow Landing
350-445NZD per personTake a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out on the snow to soak up the experience, before flying back to land. Cool!
Franz Josef Kayaking
135NZD per personExplore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Franz Josef/Wanaka
Transfer to Wanaka, where there are a variety of optional activities available. Opt to hiking or check out the giant maze and optical illusions of Puzzling World.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Use free time to check out the optional activities around Wanaka.
Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow
Puzzling World Visit
27-30NZD per personChallenge your perception of reality and experience the world-famous Great Maze through bizarre buildings and rooms of illusion.
Scenic Bike Ride
60NZD per personPedal around at a leisurely pace and enjoy the scenery.
Skydiving
Scenic Boat Cruise
Hiking
The Mount Iron Track is an iconic Wanaka walk. This very popular loop walk offers excellent 360 - degree views from the summit.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 16Wanaka/Queenstown
Drive the winding route between Wanaka and Queenstown passing through picturesque wine country, the towering Crown Range Mountains, and the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River. Watch as the scenery shifts from vast open valleys to the hustle and bustle of the city, and get ready to enjoy a free afternoon in the "adventure capital of the world."
Enjoy a free afternoon to maximize time for all the optional activities in the area. Opt for a jet boat outing, bungee jumping, mountain biking, sky diving, or a vineyard tour. The options in this adventure capital are endless.
Opt to pre-book the "Queenstown Jet Boating" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
Please note that if you are travelling on this trip between December 2019 and October 2020 your group will be staying at the Ramada in Frankton on the nights of the tour that the group is passing through Queenstown.
Free Time
Enjoy free time to try some of the challenging optional activities available in the “adventure capital of the world.”
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 16 HideShow
Paragliding
210NZD per personHang on! Get a birds-eye view of Queenstown on an exciting ride in the sky.
Bungee Jumping
265-450NZD per personAdrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort of solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss.
Queenstown Jet Boating
169NZD per personJet boating is a typical New Zealand activity— go as fast you can in a boat over water. Hang on tight as you fly across the surface of the water. Shoot through narrow rocky gorges and dare to watch as the driver takes hairpin turns frighteningly close to the cliffs.
Skydiving
430-535NZD per personEnjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 17Queenstown
Enjoy a full-day hiking excursion along the world renowned Routeburn Track, taking in the gorgeous mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes surrounding the track.
Routeburn Track Day Hike
Head out for a day of hiking along the stunning Routeburn Track. Start on a gradual incline through a 130 million year old forest, with incredible views of snow capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, crystal clear streams, and alpine meadows. After enjoying a picnic lunch, continue on the forgotten paths of the Maori while travelling along their old 'Greenstone' trails. With incredible scenery and historical significance, this hike is not one to miss!
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 18Queenstown
Travel to the fjords of the South Island. Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound from the deck of a boat, then return to Queenstown for the night.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Milford Sound Cruise
Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound from the deck of a boat. Recharge your camera and be ready to shoot stunning photos of waterfalls, mountains stretching up to the sky and down to the sea and then search for dolphins and seals. This place is any artist's dream!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 19Queenstown/Twizel
Enjoy free time in Queenstown, before travelling on to the Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy a final morning in Queenstown, with time for optional activities.
Day 20Twizel
Prepare for an action packed day! Start on two-wheels on a mountain biking excursion around the Aoraki/Mt Cook region. In the afternoon, discover stunning landscapes on foot.
Aoraki/Mt Cook Mountain Biking
Hop on a bike and experience the beautiful scenery of New Zealand's Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail.
Aoraki/Mt Cook Hike
Hike in the shadow of Mt Cook.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 21Twizel/Christchurch
Travel back to Christchurch. Head out for an orientation drive with your CEO before enjoying a few hours to explore the city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief drive with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
Spend the evening exploring Christchurch during free time.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 22Christchurch
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.