New Zealand tours - Reverse Traverse Tour

TOUR DAY - christchurch to queenstown (transfer)

Cruise past amazing landscapes as you head from the Garden city (Christchurch) to Queenstown.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Wanaka is located on the shores of Lake Wanaka, just north of Queenstown. Surrounded by the the Southern Alps its a spectacular location and another popular alpine resort.  The crystal clear waters reflect the snow capped peaks year round and its the perfect place to absorb the beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

None today but once you arrive in Queenstown you can start planning your adventures for the next day.  

HIKING OPTIONS:

Once you get to Queenstown stretch your legs and explore the adrenalin capital.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

No cycle options on this day.

ACCOMMODATION:

A well-equipped lodge just outside of Queenstown - surprise upgrade option

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

The World’s first commercial bungy jump took place in Queenstown in 1988.

TOUR DAY - queenstown to lake wanaka

Giving you a last chance to throw yourself off a bridge before we head towards Wanaka. There’s also the chance again to try any of the great Queenstown buzzes in the morning, then after lunch we pick up our new friends joining us for the Wild West and head towards the west coast. Tonight’s camp is right on the shore of the beautiful Lake Wanaka, with an excellent bike ride option into camp.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Wanaka is located on the shores of Lake Wanaka, just north of Queenstown. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, this is a spectacular location and another popular alpine resort.  The crystal clear waters reflect the snow capped peaks year round and it's the perfect place to absorb the beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Luge by Mark Hassenflow

You have until mid-afternoon to experience Queenstown’s great attractions.

HIKING OPTIONS:

Enjoy some of the shorter walks Queenstown has to offer.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

Free day in Queenstown to check out the rides – head out along the lakeshore for a scenic ride round to Glenorchy or cycle from Lake Hawea Lookout - 25km to camp at Boundary Creek Recreation Reserve.

ACCOMMODATION:

Bush camp with great setting by Lake Wanaka.

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

There are more Scottish pipe bands per head of population in New Zealand than in Scotland.

TOUR DAY - lake wanaka to fox glacier

Enjoy a relaxed morning at our lakeside camp with an optional jet boat ride into the beautiful Mt Aspiring National Park, or a lovely morning cycle. Just before we reach the West Coast we stop for a walk to the amazing blue pools, and then head over the dramatic Haast Pass. As we are heading out towards the wild West Coast, the scenery starts to change and there’s a great chance to sample this with a waterfall hike. After our stop for a picnic lunch we hit the coast and head north to the beach. Here you can enjoy one of the short walks and this is a great chance to find yourself some Pounamu, New Zealand’s Greenstone. Also keep an eye out for dolphins!

ABOUT THE AREA:

The wild "West Coast" refers to the beautiful and diverse area lodged between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. This area is home to arguably the most dramatic scenery in New Zealand the the least number of people - a perfect combination for our tours)  The region is dotted with towering mountain peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, thundering rivers and rainforest.  The national parks in this region have been designated as World Heritage Areas to help keep this area of supreme natural beauty intact. Residents of the region are known as "coasters" and known for their genuine friendliness.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Jet boating

HIKING OPTIONS:

Some great short walks including the dramatic waterfalls, one of our favourite secret spots and and exploring Ship Creek.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

There’s the chance to cycle ahead of the group with a 20km ride to Makarora and if weather permits you can cycle from the top of Haast Pass. If daylight permits there is a longer cycle into camp at Fox Glacier. 

ACCOMMODATION:

Holiday Park with great facilities. Cabins are also available for a small extra charge (subject to availability).

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

New Zealand has more book-shops per head of population than any other country; one for every 7500 people.

TOUR DAY - FOX GLACIER TO OKARITO LAGOON

Exploring Fox Glacier and the surrounding area. You have the chance to hike or ice climb on the glacier, but if glaciers aren’t your thing then you will have the day to explore. You can cycle the area or visit the must-see Lake Matheson, famous for its beautiful reflections of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. We then have a short drive up the coast to our beautiful beachside campsite next to the Okarito lagoon.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Okarito Lagoon is home to NZ's only colony of the white heron (kotuku). Fox glacier is one of New Zealand's most famous landmarks but here are a few things you might not now about this natural phenomenon:

• Fox glacier, like all glaciers, advances and retreats - this is demonstrated by the bulging lower ice fall.

• Maori legend tells the story of the glacier named Te Moeka o Tuawe. When Tu Awe fell to his death exploring the area his lover, Hine Hukatere wept, the  valley filled with her everlasting tears of ice

  

  Fox Glacier town by Lindsey Keith

• Fox glacier if the largest and longest glacier on the West Coast

• The glacier, unusually, ends in rainforest just 250 metres above sea level

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Half or full day glacier hike

Heli-hike

Ice climbing

HIKING OPTIONS:

All the glacier options or a great one hour hike around Lake Matheson

CYCLE OPTIONS:

If you’re not doing the Glacier Hike there is a hilly ride from Fox Glacier township to our camp of just under 60km. If you prefer a shorter option then you just ride the 26km over the hills to Franz or the last 12km into Okarito.

ACCOMMODATION:

A beachside camp tonight next to a beautiful lagoon.  

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

New Zealand is home to the world's smallest dolphin, the Hectors Dolphin, the rarest sea lion, the Hookers Sea Lion, the largest flightless parrot, the kakapo, the oldest reptile, the tuatara, the heaviest insect, a weta, the biggest earth-worms, the smallest bats, some of the oldest trees, and many of the rarest birds, insects, and plants in the world.

TOUR DAY - Okarito lagoon to paparoa national park

Heading up the rugged West Coast through dramatic Lord of the Rings scenery! For the early birds we definitely recommend taking a morning trek to enjoy a sunrise with outstanding views over the Alps and a chance to spot kiwis in the wild. First stop of the day is what we like to call a ‘café experience’, a great chance to learn about the local area. We then reach Hokitika - a genuine “coasters” town! After a spot of exploring in the home of Greenstone it’s on to a great coastal walk, then to the renowned Paparoa National Park, home of Punakaiki and the famous Pancake rocks.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Hokitika and the surrounding area is a traditional source of greenstone (pounamu) - several stores and outlets offer a variety of jewellery and other tiemsin this thriving arts and crafts scene. Paparoa National Park is home to a plethora of luxuriant coastal forests, limestone cliffs, canyons, caves and underground streams, and an absolutely spectacular coastline, all packed into one national park.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Café experience

Visit a greenstone factory

Visit the Kiwi house

HIKING OPTIONS:

Hike up to The Trig for sunrise (1.5 hr return) and a great view of Southern Alps.  Point Elizabeth Walk coastal walk (about 1.5hrs).  

CYCLE OPTIONS:

Cyclists can hit the last 33km along the coast and into camp

ACCOMMODATION:

Punakaiki camp next to a river and beach. Cabins are an option (subject to availability).

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

New zealand has two national athems- God Save The Queen and God Defend New Zealand.

TOUR DAY - PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK

Starting the day with a hearty pancake breakfast. Once fuelled and ready to go the day is yours to explore this amazing national park. There are a number of walks available ranging from short 20 minute walks to 5 – 6 hour hikes.

There’s the opportunity to head to Pancake rocks and check out the famous blowholes. You can also try your hand at kayaking on the Pororari River or a spot of horse riding. For the cyclists there are great mountain bike tracks and also the chance to check out the glow worms hidden in the sub-tropical fauna. Alternatively, just take the day at your own pace and enjoy the easy laid-back life of the West Coast!

ABOUT THE AREA:

The national park offers great access to several coastal and historic tracks dating back to the days of the gold rush boom. Limestone is responsible for the unusual rock formations and landforms scattered along the coast.  This has also been the reason for the formation of the bizarre and impressive pancake stack of rocks at Punkaiki blowholes.

These blowholes are best caught at high tide and your guide will advise you on the best times to catch them in full flow. Birdlife in the area is also varied with  tui, bellbird/korimako and kereru all found throughout different times of year.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Kayaking

HIKING OPTIONS:

A number of walks available ranging from short 20 minute walks to 5 – 6 hour hikes.  Also a great walk to watch the blowholes at Pancake Rocks.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

Cyclists have plenty of chances to explore the wonderful area.

ACCOMMODATION:

A final night in the great camp at Punakaiki.

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

While it is no longer the case, New Zealand was once governed as a part of the territory of New South Wales (later a part of Australia). When Australia federated in 1901, New Zealand was offered a place as one of their states. New Zealand refused and is its own country with no ties (other than economic and commonwealth) to Australia.

Campsite by Natalie

TOUR DAY - PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK to abel tasman national park

Taking time to explore arguably the best beaches and clearest waters in New Zealand. The Abel Tasman is one of our favourite spots and we have some excellent options for everyone here. You can walk, sail or kayak around the numerous golden bays and dive into the crystal clear waters along the way. There will be plenty of chance for wildlife spotting (dolphins, seals and even Orcas!) You also have the option to stay a night in the park. 

ABOUT THE AREA:

New Zealand has a range of fantastic national parks but this is our favourite - maybe it's because this little gem lies on the doorstep of Flying Kiwi HQ but mainly it's due to the the golden sandy beaches, twisting rocky outcrops, turquoise clear waters and beautiful hidden bays.  The park is also home to a range of life from dolphins and orcas to tuis and bellbirds. Whether from the ground, water or air the Abel Tasman never fails to disappoint aspiring photographers looking for the perfect beach shot!

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Skydiving

Hang gliding

Micro light flight

Pilot a stunt plane

HIKING OPTIONS:

A number of short walks are available in the region and once we reach the camp.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

An excellent 25km ride into camp or try the 15 km coast road to our accommodation.

ACCOMMODATION:

 In a great, fun campsite for the next couple of days to explore the area. Cabins are available for a small extra charge (subject to availability).

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

Almost three quarters of New Zealand’s electricity is generated by renewable methods, specifically hydro-electricity, wind and geothermal energy.

TOUR DAY - abel tasman NATIONAL PARK

Taking time to explore arguably the best beaches and clearest waters in New Zealand. The Abel Tasman is one of our favourite spots and we have some excellent options for everyone here. You can walk, sail or kayak around the numerous golden bays and dive into the crystal clear waters along the way. There will be plenty of chance for wildlife spotting (dolphins, seals and even Orcas!) You also have the option to stay a night in the park. At night we celebrate the last night in the south by going out for a great group dinner.

ABOUT THE AREA:

 Abel Tasman is world renowned for its beautiful beaches and amazing coastal hikes. It has a very mild climate making it a popular destination year round. The Maori lived along the Abel Tasman coast for over 5000 years with a rich supply of food from the water and forest. On 18th Dec 1642, the Dutch seafarer Abel Tasman, anchored at Golden Bay and was the 1st European to visit New Zealand. He was met by the resident Ngati Tumatakokiri people and after losing  4 crew in a skirmish with the Maori he soon moved on.

European settlement didnt begin until around 1855. The settlers soon began logging forests for ship building and quarries the granite hillsides.  The temporary

Abel Tasman by Lindsey keith

boom soon began to dip as wood supplies depleted and in 1942 15,000 hectares of land was made into Abel Tasman National Park. 

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

 Sea kayaking

Sailing

Various kayak/walk/sail combinations

Canyoning

HIKING OPTIONS:

 A variety of different length walks in the National Park. We recommend you water taxi (at your own cost) into the park and hike back out at your leisure.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

The day is yours to explore the region but unfortunately there is no cycling allowed in the national park. A great option is to cycle to Kaiteri for the day.

ACCOMMODATION:

The same great camp for the last night in the south island.

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

A New Zealand chef invented the meringue dessert known as the Pavlova in honor of the famous Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.

TOUR DAY - ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK to wellington

We have a relaxed start to the day then heading into Nelson for a few hours to explore this unique little city. There is also a great morning cycle option. On the way over to Picton we stop at a top winery in the world famous Marlborough region to sample award winning wines. Then it’s a short drive to the ferry for the journey over to Wellington which is simply breathtaking so have your cameras charged up. Upon arrival back in the north you will be transported to your hostel which is a great location to enjoy the Wellington night life.

ABOUT THE AREA:

the Nelson region is situated at the top of the south island and surrounded by mountain ranges.  This provides a perfect Mediterranean-type climate and is the reason Nelson is known for its year-round sun (and the home to Flying kiwi HQ).   There is a thriving community here with over 370 working artists, boutique wineries, countless cafes, fresh seafood, and a generally relaxed lifestyle. Blenheim is the main town of the Marlborough win region - a name you will see on most leading New Zealand wine bottles.  The sunniest part of NZ its renowned for vineyards, tasty food and boat cruising. The lovely waterside

Cheers !!! by Lindsey Keith

village of Picton is an ideal base to explore this marine playground of pristine beaches and secret coves.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Wine tasting

HIKING OPTIONS:

Early birds can walk part of the track, and there are a few hours to stroll around the unique and charming town of Nelson - plenty of cafes, bars and shops to keep you busy.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

Joining part of the national cycle trail

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation tonight is at your own expense but we will help arrange a good hostel with transport to it from the ferry.

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

Sheep outnumber New Zealanders 9 to 1. On the South Island, the ratio is 20:1.

TOUR DAY - wellington to new plymouth

Enjoying the morning in our wonderful capital city (Wellington) that provides you the opportunity to indulge in the great cafes, shops and culture. Just before lunchtime we head for the mighty Taranaki region dominated by the magnificent Mount Taranaki . We drive the Kapiti coast with short stops along the way. Our camp is right on the coast with good walk or cycle options into town along the coast.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Wellington is the nation's capital and from Maori legend its earliest name is Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui, meaning ‘the head of Maui's fish’. This relates to the legend when a giant fish was pulled to the surface by Maui, the fish became the North Island. Half way between Wellington and Auckland we find Taranaki,

Mount Tarankai by Lindsey Keith

jutting out on the peninsula its a popular area for surfers as it picks up swell from all directions.  Its also home to the near perfect volcanic cone of Mount Taranaki which dominates the region. 

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

A selection of Wellington’s fantastic attractions. The Te Papa museum is highly recommended.

HIKING OPTIONS:

Time to explore Wellington; stroll around Te Papa or the Botanical Gardens

CYCLE OPTIONS:

A short cycle option from camp along the coast.

ACCOMMODATION:

A good campsite looking out into the Tasman Sea. (Upgrades subject to availability)

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

The national football team (aka soccer team) is called the All Whites, and the national rugby team is the All Blacks.

TOUR DAY - new plymouth to auckland

Heading to the City of Sails - Auckland. It’s a scenic drive with an excellent stop-off at the Waitomo caves, rated by many as the best attraction in New Zealand. Here you get the unique chance to raft in a limestone wonderland created by erosion over millions of years. We pull into the city as evening approaches which allows you to get out and enjoy the night life of New Zealand’s largest city.

Sky Tower by Dave Kaczmorek

ABOUT THE AREA:

Auckland is bordered by 2 harbours, Waitemata and Manukau and lies at the southern end of the Auckland Peninsula. Auckland is NZs largest city and the main gateway for all elements of commerce, tourism and industry.  Although this is the largest urban area its also has great beaches, excellent shopping and the buzzing nightlife and culture you'd hope for in a large city. Auckland is also known as the City of Sails and this has been added to with the America’s Cup event regularly held here.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Black Water Rafting

Glow worm cave walk

HIKING OPTIONS:

For those not trying the caves there are plenty of farmland walks in the area.

CYCLE OPTIONS:

 You can cycle ahead to Waitomo and the bus will meet you there (if you want to try caving you won’t have time to do this ride).

ACCOMMODATION:

We will get right into the city centre and make the most of the bustling city by staying in a local hostel (this will be a seperate expense but we will help arrange it for you).

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

Auckland has the largest number of boats per capita of any city in the world.

tour DAY  - AUCKLAND TO BAY OF ISLANDS

Leaving Auckland at 10am and heading for the golden beaches of the Bay of Islands. Whilst enjoying the scenic drive we’ll be asking you to think about activities for the next day. These include sailing, Cape Reinga day trip, Dolphin Eco Experience, diving the Rainbow Warrior or fishing.  As we drive up the coast you get to take in views of Whangarei heads. Whangarei is NZs warmest and northernmost city so enjoy the heat. You will be able to spot Hen and Chicken Islands as we head up the coasts and with a bit of imagination you can see how they got their names!

We stop off at the beach for a swim and a walk along the sand dunes. When we arrive in Paihia you get to choose from a great Mangrove walk or a beautiful cycle to thundering waterfalls, as well as the chance to visit the Treaty House where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

Visit the Treaty House - a very interesting trip to learn more about the Treaty and history of Europeans and native Maori.

Harua Falls by Derek Craddock

Great walks around the estuary and through mangroves to spectacular Haruru Falls (around 90 minutes). Also a great option for a lunchtime stroll along the wonderful beaches.

A gentle 12 km ride to the camp or you can hop off earlier for a hilly 17km ride. Both rides include some gravel road and a stop to take in the Haruru Falls along the way. The rides should take around 1 - 2 hours finishing at our accommodation.

We will be staying in a wonderful campsite with excellent facilities and upgrades available. There are kayaks to hire and it’s a great swimming spot.

New Zealand was the last major landmass to be populated (with the exception of the polar regions)

Great riverside campsite by David Kaczmorek

TOUR DAY - AUCKLAND TO BAY OF ISLANDS

Pack your lunches and bathing gear and make the most of the famous Bay of Islands. For those looking to enjoy hikes or cycle rides there are a number of options around the area and just ask your guide for their advice. For those wishing to soak up a bit more Maori culture the evening show is a great insight and gives you a chance to get up close and personal and experience the Haka! Make the most of this aquatic paradise and take your pick from a variety of outstanding hike, cycle or activity options.  We are staying in the same wonderful campsite tonight which means maximum time to explore.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Northland is the perfect playground for water lovers. With a staggering 144 islands, the Bay of Islands offers diving, boating, swimming and big game fishing. There are some excellent hiking trails and walks in the native forests leading to some of the largest and oldest trees in the World. From here you can also visit Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean - which is one of the northernmost spots in New Zealand. Trips to Cape Reinga drive along the flat, silvery sands of Ninety Mile Beach - a “historic” highway (interesting fact: the beach is only 64 miles or 104km long).

This region is also home to the oldest European villages in New Zealand and many historic buildings.

Bay of Islands by Daniel Dang

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Sailing Bay of Islands

Awesome Cape Reinga day trip

Dolphin Eco Experience

Diving, Rainbow Warrior day trip

Treaty House concert

Day in the Bay adventure

Fishing 

HIKING OPTIONS:

Many walking options of different lengths. The pick of the bunch today is a 6-hour round trip (taking in some gorgeous beaches) from Paihia - Russell. A good level of fitness is required but the day is broken up with ferry rides (own cost) and great places to visit. Alternatively, you can walk to the Haruru Falls (1.5 hours).

CYCLE OPTIONS:

It’s a good day for bikers! You have all day to enjoy a number of cycle options including a challenging 50km loop that takes you inland, then back along the coast to camp. For a more relaxed day there are a number of shorter rides to choose from.

ACCOMMODATION:

We will be staying in the same wonderful campsite with excellent facilities and upgrades available. There are kayaks to hire and it’s a great swimming spot.

DID YOu KNOW.......?:

New Zealand was the first major nation to have universal suffrage. In 1893 it became legal for all male and female citizens of New Zealand to vote.

tour DAY  - BAY OF ISLANDS TO OREWA

Our first stop comes in Opononi with a chance to try your skills sand boarding at the awesome sand dunes on the other side of the harbour. If you don’t fancy heading down the sandy slopes there’s a nice coastal walk to Omapere.

Then it’s back on board heading south towards the Waipoua Forest. Next highlight is a stop at Tane Mahuta where you will be in awe at the largest kauri tree. A short drive then there is a chance to stretch your legs by either walking to the second largest tree, called Te Matua Ngahere or you can cycle ahead of the bus through this magnificent forest.   We will also be taking a short stop in Dargaville. We wrap up the day with hot pools and superb slides, enjoy a well-earned meal and share stories of our Bay of Islands adventures. 

about the area:

The roads around this region pass through forest dominated by huge kauri trees. These tower above you at heights of up to 60 metres with a trunk five or more in diameter. These trees are slow growing and some are over 2000 years old.  Beautiful Opononi is an excellent stop with its endless dunes lined by beautiful pohutakawa trees (the New Zealand christmas tree). 'Opo the Friendly Dolphin' made the region famous in 1955-56 when locals and tourists visited the area in their thousands to see the new playful resident.  Opo's visit is commemorated with a statue.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Sandboarding by Dave n Deb

Sand boarding

Hot Pools and slides

hiking OPTIONS:

Some great short walks in Waipoua Forest

CYCLE OPTIONS:

Rides of varying lengths winding through the forest.

ACCOMMODATION:

Excellent camp site located by the beach and the hot pools - an inspirational spot for sunset photography

DID YOU KNOW.......?:

Auckland is the largest Polynesian City in the world with a population mix of - 13% Pacific Island, 12% Maori, 61% European.

TOUR DAY  - Orewa TO AUCKLAND

We head back to Auckland for the end of your tour but there are plenty of options to extend if you want to stay on the bus.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Auckland is often mistaken as the capital of New Zealand due to its size.  It is the gatweay and commerical capital of the country and also an excellent base from which to explore some beautiful area such as the highly recommended Waiheke Island (a great place to spend a few days if your trip ends in Auckland).  The CBD (central business district) is thriving with shops, bars and restaurants and the harbour area is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy and soak up the atmosphere.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Sky tower bungee

HIKING OPTIONS:

Some short, early walks before we head off from camp

CYCLE OPTIONS:

No cycle options today

ACCOMMODATION:

Not applicable.  If you do need accommodation after your trip contact our friendly team and we can help make arrangements.

DID YO KNOW.......?:

Maori called this region ‘Tamaki makau rau’, a maiden with 100 lovers.