Overview
New Zealand is the perfect place for adrenaline and activity, and there's nowhere in the country more suited to that than the South Island. On this two week trip, cover the ground (or water) by sea kayak, boat, bike, and on foot. Explore Abel Tasman National Park, cruise along the waters of Milford Sound, and take two wheels through the trails around Mt Cook. If you're not out of breath just from reading all that, then it's time to start packing.
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Our Price From
A$5,247 per person
Price shown based on multi share
Save up to $1,052 per person
Trip Length
15 Days
Trip Starts
Christchurch
Trip Ends
Christchurch
Departures
Nov 2026 to Dec 2027
Countries Visited:
Trip Style
Active
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
12-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
ONSM
Itinerary
Arrive at any time.
Accommodation:
Bealey Quarter
Included Experiences
- 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.
Explore Experiences
Christchurch
Transfer north, along the scenic coastal road up to Kaikoura. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area or take in an optional activity. A free afternoon can be spent visiting a colony of Southern Fur seals, partaking in a peninsula walkway walk, 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.
Accommodation:
Dusky Lodge
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- 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 Experiences
- Hiking: Set off along the hiking trail to take in the beautiful scenery along the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway.
- Dolphin Tour: Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. If we come upon them, depending on conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.
- Scenic Flight: Take 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.
Explore Experiences
Kaikoura
Take in the scenery of the South Island while travelling to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Sample some local produce and wine as you travel through the renowned Marlborough wine region. Enjoy free time to explore upon arrival.
Accommodation:
The Barn Cabins & Camp
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Experiences
Abel Tasman
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 Marahau local eateries.
Accommodation:
The Barn Cabins & Camp
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- 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.
Enjoy the scenery of the mountainous coastal Westland region, and stop en route to see the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.
Accommodation:
Hotel Lake Brunner
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- 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.
- 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.
Explore Experiences
Punakaiki
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.
Accommodation:
Alpine Glacier Motel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- 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.
Explore Experiences
Franz Josef Glacier
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.
Accommodation:
Alpine Glacier Motel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: A variety of optional activities are available in the wildnerness around Franz Josef. Choices include a helicopter hike, glacier valley walk, quad biking as well as the unique and stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Optional Experiences
- Hiking : Take 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: Take 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! (385-655 NZD per person)
- Franz Josef Kayaking: Explore 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. (149-169 NZD per person)
- Guided Heli Hike (Heli Transfer): The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind! (595-795 NZD per person)
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.
Accommodation:
Wanaka Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Use free time to check out the optional activities around Wanaka.
Optional Experiences
- Puzzling World Visit: Challenge your perception of reality and experience the world-famous Great Maze through bizarre buildings and rooms of illusion. (22-32 NZD per person)
- Hiking: The Mount Iron Track is an iconic Wanaka walk. This very popular loop walk offers excellent 360 - degree views from the summit.
Explore Experiences
Wanaka
Start the day with a bike ride on the Outlet Track, cycle alongside crystal-clear water with stunning mountain views. Then its time to depart Wanaka and drive the winding route to Queenstown, passing through picturesque wine country 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."
Accommodation:
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Enjoy free time to try some of the challenging optional activities available in the “adventure capital of the world.”
- Wanaka Bike Ride: Cycle the bike track along The Outlet Track from Albert Town to Wanaka, covering 11-15km. You’ll cycle alongside crystal-clear water and rapids, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Optional Experiences
- Skydiving: Enjoy 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! (449-549 NZD per person)
- Queenstown Jet Boating: Jet 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.
- Bungee Jumping: Adrenaline 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. (320-805 NZD per person)
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.
Accommodation:
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- 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!
Explore Experiences
Milford Sound Cruise
Milford Sound
Queenstown
Enjoy a full-day hiking excursion along the world renowned Routeburn Track, taking in the gorgeous mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes surrounding the track.
Accommodation:
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- 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!
Enjoy free time in Queenstown, before travelling on to the Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
Accommodation:
High Country Lodge Motel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Enjoy a final morning in Queenstown, with time for optional activities.
Spend the day visiting Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park, taking in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Explore the park at your own pace, enjoying options such as walking along the Hooker Valley Track, visiting the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or simply admiring the views of New Zealand’s highest peak.
Accommodation:
High Country Lodge Motel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Aoraki/Mt Cook Hike: Hike in the shadow of Mt Cook.
Explore Experiences
Aoraki (Mt Cook)
Travel back to Christchurch. Head out for an orientation drive with your CEO before enjoying a few hours to explore the city.
Accommodation:
Bealey Quarter
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- 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.
Depart at any time.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Trip Inclusions
- Kayak in the waters of Abel Tasman National Park.
- Try exhilarating adventures in Queenstown.
- Cruise through Milford Sound.
- Cycle at the base of Mt Cook.
- Hike a section of the Routeburn Track.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Discover Moment: Franz Josef
- Abel Tasman National Park hike
- Sea kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park
- Punakaiki pancake rocks visit
- Seal colony stop
- Okarito Lagoon walk
- Full-day Routeburn Track hiking excursion
- Fiordland National Park visit
- Cruise through Milford Sound
- Wanaka cycling excursion
- Hike the Mt Cook region
- Orientation walk in Christchurch
- Free time in Franz Josef and Queenstown
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicle, kayak, boat, bicycle, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
- Hotels/hostels (14 Nights)
- You will be spending your nights in twin-share accommodation. We have specifically chosen unique accommodations to give local flavour to your trip.
- Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Towels and soap are not always provided at overnight stops, so it's best to bring your own for bathing. Bathroom and showering facilities are shared and are very rarely en-suite.
- 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, more giving you meaningful experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Active
For travellers who prefer their adventures powered by motion - G's Active tours offer an immersive way to explore the world. Whether it’s hiking rugged trails, biking scenic routes, or kayaking along rivers and coastlines, all you'll need to bring is your energy, enthusiasm, and a love for active adventure. Our expert guides provide all the gear and logistical support needed so you can focus on the journey.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Sunday
15 Nov 2026
15 Nov 26
Christchurch
Sunday
29 Nov 2026
29 Nov 26
Christchurch
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,899
A$5,781
Save $118
Multi Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
22 Nov 2026
22 Nov 26
Christchurch
Sunday
06 Dec 2026
06 Dec 26
Christchurch
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,899
A$5,781
Save $118
Multi Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
29 Nov 2026
29 Nov 26
Christchurch
Sunday
13 Dec 2026
13 Dec 26
Christchurch
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,899
A$5,781
Save $118
Multi Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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