21 Day New Zealand North to South Private Guided Tour

Explore the North and South Island with a New Zealand guided tour personalised to suit your group. Our private guided tours are hosted by one of New Zealand’s leading tour guides. Your guide will meet your group at the airport and chauffeur your group to explore the destinations and activities included in your personalised tour package. They will tend to your needs and share valuable local knowledge with your group to enhance your holiday experience. We can cater for groups between 1-40 people.

Our private New Zealand guided tour packages are flexible and are booked to suit your group’s travel dates and interests.

Read on for more details on the 21 Day New Zealand North to South Private Guided Tour.

21 Day New Zealand North to South Private Guided Tour

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Arrive in Auckland – the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and is bordered by two stunning harbours. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your Auckland City accommodation.

In the afternoon explore Auckland City with your tour guide. You might like to visit the Sky Tower, Auckland Zoo or Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World; venturing to one of Auckland’s stunning beaches or West Auckland wineries; or doing a spot of shopping.

Stay 1 night in Auckland City.

Day 2 Bay of Islands

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3.5 hours

Leave the city behind as your tour continues north to the Bay of Islands. This stunning stretch of coastline boasts secluded beaches, forested hills, and fantastic marine wildlife.

The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region made up of 144 islands known for its stunning beauty & history.

New Zealand’s newest Marine mammal sanctuary Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands) boasts an abundance of marine life, which includes whales, dolphins, penguins, fur seals and a large variety of sea birds. For those that love nature, beaches and water activities, it is paradise.

The bustling seaside town of Paihia has an extensive choice of activities, accommodation and delicious dining options. Paihia is the perfect base for discovering the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands, with cruises departing from Paihia wharf.

Stay 2 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Discover the Bay Cruise + Bay of Islands

In the morning, board the premium Discover the Bay Cruise and see for yourself the best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Journey to the Hole in the Rock and if weather permits, sail through it. See marine wildlife including Dolphins and stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to have a swim, go for a walk and relax.

In the afternoon, you might like your guide to take you to Russell. Russell is a significant place in New Zealand’s history, being New Zealand’s first European settlement and sea port, while Okiato, near Russell, was New Zealand’s first capital. Russell is also home to the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel and pub, which has been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827! The pub is located on the waterfront in Russell—why not sit back and relax on the verandah overlooking the bay?

Day 4 Coromandel Peninsula

Travel time Bay of Islands to Coromandel Peninsula – 6.5 hours

Renowned worldwide as a spectacular holiday destination, with warm white sandy beaches, misty rainforests and wilderness a-plenty, the Coromandel is the ideal place to relax and unwind.

Whitianga is the main settlement of Mercury Bay, an attractive township with a deep-water harbour. Now a vibrant coastal town, Whitianga is evolving into a delightful place to visit. Whitianga has an excellent selection of restaurants and cafés, and the thriving retail community provides an interesting collection of outlets.

In the afternoon explore the Coromandel Peninsula with your tour guide.

Stay 2 nights in Whitianga, Coromandel.

Day 5 Coromandel Peninsula + Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Today, join the Glass Bottom Boat for a unique boat cruise. Depart from the Whitianga Wharf to explore the breathtaking volcanic coastline, including the famous Cathedral Cove. See the stunning Champagne Bay, plus a range of blow holes and sea caves, including Orua’s Sea Cave, the second largest sea cave in New Zealand! See what lies above and below the surface in the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and be amazed by all the marine life to be seen. You can choose your own level of fun. Either sit back and enjoy the amazing marine life through the glass boat, or take the plunge and snorkel amongst the fish. All equipment supplied and no experience necessary. Blue penguins are a common sight year-round.

In the afternoon, visit Hot Water Beach and dig your own hot pool. You also have the option to go for a picturesque walk along this stretch of coastline – the scenery is stunning.

Day 6 Rotorua + Maori Cultural Experience

Travel time Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua – 3.5 hours

Enjoy the scenic journey to Rotorua, distinguished by Māori culture and geothermal activity. This diverse city will put on a display as you encounter dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, crystal-clear streams, magical forests and 18 beautiful fresh water lakes.

In the evening enjoy a traditional Maori Cultural Experience including a Hangi Dinner. Hear stories and learn how Maori traditions live on today. Experience an authentic Maori welcome. Watch a challenge by the Maori warriors, a karanga (call) from the Maori women welcoming you onto the marae, and a whaikorero (welcome speech). Relax and enjoy the beautiful waiata (songs), the world renowned haka (challenge), and the elegant poi dance. Learn Maori customs including Maori musical instruments, haka and poi. The dining experience is a culinary opportunity like no other. Following dessert, you will be transported down into the valley to conclude your evening beside the awe inspiring Pohutu geyser.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 7 Hell’s Gate + Skyline Gondola and Dinner Rotorua

The Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park is Rotorua’s most active geothermal area featuring a walkway lined with unique geothermal wonders and interactive opportunities. Experience the geothermal features with a self-guided map to show you around or join a guided tour of the reserve to learn more about the history, features and uniqueness of the geothermal area.

See bubbling mud pools, steaming craters, mineral pools, learn about New Zealand’s history and culture, and even try Maori weaving and wood carving! After this, the geothermal waters of the Hell’s Gate Sulphur Spa will rejuvenate and refresh you, as you relax and take in the surreal surroundings of the wondrous geothermal landscape.

In the evening enjoy dinner at Rotorua’s most spectacular location – Skyline Restaurant. Sit back and relax as the views from the gondola unfold while you journey to the Skyline complex. The Skyline Restaurant will then serve you a mouthwatering taste of New Zealand, a buffet of legendary proportions.

Feast on mouth-watering fresh soups and salads and seafood specialties such as mussels, queen scallops, sushi and sashimi. Enjoy carvery roasts of beef, lamb or pork with specialty sauces to match, with live cooking from your friendly chefs. The legendary Art of the Grill menu will tempt your taste buds even further, with a selection of fillet steak, prawn and Morten Bay Bugs – all cooked on the grill to your liking. Add to that mouth-watering desserts, and you’ve got yourself a unique dining experience not to be missed. Tiered seating guarantees stunning views from every table! After dinner enjoy the scenic ride back down on the gondola.

Day 8 Taupo + Scenic Floatplane Flight

Travel time Rotorua to Taupo – 1 hour

Enjoy the short drive south to Taupo, rich in natural beauty with attractions such as the Huka Falls and boat cruises.

In the afternoon enjoy the Peek at the Lake Scenic Floatplane Flight as you take off from Taupo Bay, past Acacia Bay to Rangatira Point, viewing the crystal clear waters of Whakaipo Bay. Climb up through Mapara Valley, view red scoria quarries, then discover the headwaters of the Waikato River. Fly over the Craters of the Moon and over the Borefields of the Wairakei Power Station, followed by a circuit of the Huka Falls, over Taupo to land on the lakefront.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 9 Wellington

Travel time Taupo to Wellington – 5.5 hours

Enjoy the scenic drive from Taupo to Wellington. Along the way, you will come across Tongariro National Park, an impressive collection of volcanoes which stretches from the southern shore of Lake Taupo.

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, has so much to offer. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour, surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city rich in culture waiting to be explored. From shopping and picturesque walks, to live theatre, exhibitions, Te Papa Tongarewa the Museum of New Zealand and more – Wellington has something for everyone.

Relax and explore Wellington City with your tour guide this afternoon.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 10 Wellington

Explore Wellington with your guide today. You may like to visit Zealandia, located a 10- minute drive from downtown Wellington. Hidden in a suburban valley, this project aims to return a 225-hectare section of bush to its pre-human state. Take a walk and hear the songs of the flourishing native bird population.

This afternoon you may like to try the visually stunning Makara Peak track, as well as the City to Sea walk where you can experience the best of Wellington’s waterfront. Ride the cable car up the hill to Kelburn for amazing views over the city and enjoy an ice cream at the top.

Activity Option: Lord of the Rings Tour.

Day 11 Wellington to Picton Cook Strait Ferry > Kaikoura

Sailing time Wellington to Picton – 3.5 hours
Travel time Picton to Kaikoura – 2.5 hours

It’s all about the journey today as you board the Cook Strait Ferry, which will transport you on a scenic cruise to Picton. Your New Zealand guided tour continues on the South Island as you enjoy the coastal drive along the East Coast to Kaikoura. Drive through Marlborough, recognised internationally for its distinctive, Sauvignon Blanc. Option to stop at one or more cellar doors to buy some delicious Marlborough wines.

Kaikoura is a stunning coastal township offering a backdrop of majestic mountains. Kaikoura, being an important fishing port, is a mecca for seafood lovers. Local specialties include blue cod, paua (abalone) and of course crayfish (lobster).

Activity Option: Experience a once in a lifetime opportunity with a Whale Watch Scenic Flight to view the majestic Sperm Whales off the Kaikoura Coast.

Stay 1 night in Kaikoura.

Day 12 Christchurch

Travel time Kaikoura to Christchurch – 2.5 hours

The impressive scenery of the coastal ranges accompanies your journey from Kaikoura to Christchurch today. 

Christchurch is a vibrant, energetic city where urban regeneration, creativity, and innovation thrive. Picture amazing street art, innovative projects, a booming hospitality scene and state-of-the-art architecture that is changing the way the city looks, feels and functions – all the while staying true to its heritage and traditional English feel.

In the afternoon explore Christchurch City, visiting unique attractions the Christchurch Gondola and Christchurch Tramway with your tour guide or relax in your accommodation.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Day 13 Mount Cook + Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Travel time Christchurch to Mt Cook Village – 4.5 hours

Travel south across the Canterbury Plains and inland towards the majestic Southern Alps. Cross the barren Mackenzie Country to reach the glacial lakes as you journey towards Mount Cook.

In the afternoon visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre offering a 2D and 3D theatre and world-class definiti® Digital Dome Planetarium. You will also find a museum showcasing the history of the Mount Cook region through transport, climbing, and pioneer extraordinaire, Sir Edmund Hillary.

Activity Option: Add on a must do Scenic Helicopter Flight with snow landing to view Mount Cook and glaciers.

Stay 1 night in Mount Cook.

Day 14 Wanaka

Travel time Mt Cook Village to Wanaka – 3 hours

Venture past Lake Pukaki a picturesque turquoise glacial lake, before you travel through the dramatic Lindis Pass which links the Mackenzie Basin with Central Otago. Wanaka awaits you boasting panoramic views, a relaxing atmosphere and a myriad of walking tracks.

In the afternoon you have many options, you may want to visit Puzzling World, Wanaka’s iconic illusional attraction as well as the famous National Toy and Transport Museum. You may also want to take a look around Wanaka’s boutique  shops, stroll around the lake’s edge, or indulge in one of the many activities on offer.

Stay 1 night in Wanaka.

Day 15 Te Anau

Travel time Wanaka to Te Anau – 3.5 hours

Drive over the beautiful Crown Range, one of New Zealand’s highest alpine roads, and admire the vistas from fantastic viewing points. Be sure to stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel for a refreshment before traveling through Queenstown on your way to Te Anau. Travel alongside Lake Wakatipu and through lush green farmland to reach Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

While you relax in Te Anau, you may wish to visit Fiordland Cinema and watch Ata Whenua – Shadowland, which was filmed by helicopters flying over the remote reaches of Fiordland National Park. You could also visit the Department of Conservation visitor centre for displays on the natural wonders of the region. Take a stroll along the lakefront to the Wildlife Park, where you can view endangered native birds, or visit the nearby Lake Manapouri for even more impressive views.

Te Anau is known as the walking capital of New Zealand, so the hiking options are endless! Enjoy the walk to the top of Key Summit for stunning views over Fiordland National Park, take a full day to explore the Kepler Track, or stroll along the lakefront esplanade.

Or, add on a fantastic glowworm tour!

Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.

Day 16 Te Anau > Milford Sound

Enjoy a scenic coach journey through heartland New Zealand to reach Milford Sound. The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the finest alpine drives in the world. The scenery is exceptional, ranging from broad grassy flats, dense rainforest, and towering mountains through to glacial lakes and alpine herb fields. No other road in Fiordland offers such a diverse glimpse into New Zealand’s alpine zone. The schedule includes plenty of time for short nature walks and photo opportunities along the way.

When you take a boat trip with Cruise Milford, you’ll be getting close to New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks, massive rock faces rising for hundreds of metres out of the sea and see waterfalls cascade from ancient rainforest high in the mountains.

With Cruise Milford, you’ll be travelling on smaller boats, which are less crowded and where their local crew offer an informative and personal tour of Milford Sound. The crew really love showing visitors this amazing place.

Day 17 Dunedin

Travel time Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins – 6 hours

Along the way to Dunedin, your guide will take you on a tour of the remote Catlins coast, where you will find pounding waterfalls, an iconic lighthouse at Nugget Point, lush native bush, a petrified forest, and maybe even penguins and dolphins! Stop for a number of nature walks and photo opportunities along the way, and soak in the wild natural beauty.

Continue the scenic drive and go through to the coast along Brighton, Waldronville and Tunnel Beach. You will end up at Saint Clair Beach in Dunedin, which may be the perfect spot for a late lunch.

In the evening, relax in Dunedin, where you will find a number of striking historic buildings in the compact town centre.

Stay 2 nights in Dunedin.

Day 18 Larnach Castle

Today, venture to Larnach Castle which is situated on the spectacular Otago Peninsula. This castle was built by William Larnach in 1871 offering scandalous and tragic stories, incredible tower views and a exquisite Victorian interiors complete this magical castle. 

The gardens at Larnach Castle have been rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance. This garden makes up 7 acres of the grounds and with that in mind is well worth exploring! Enjoy the sheer beauty that has been put into this magical venue!

In the afternoon, your guide will show you around Dunedin – you have the option to visit the Speight’s Brewery, or the Otago Peninsula.

Day 19 Queenstown

Travel time Dunedin to Queenstown – 4 hours

Drive through historic Central Otago, farm land, orchards and vineyards to reach Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital of the world.

Relax and explore Queenstown, with the option to visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park, the Underwater Observatory, or the Ivan Clarke Gallery; ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views over the Wakatipu Basin; or simply enjoy a lakefront stroll or a bit of boutique shopping.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 20 Half Day in Middle Earth Queenstown Tour

Step into the world of Middle-earth, this immersive adventure brings the magic of the films to life, inviting travellers to explore dramatic landscapes, uncover behind-the-scenes secrets, and even don authentic costumes for unforgettable photos.

The journey winds through the charm of Arrowtown, the sun-kissed vineyards of the Gibbston Valley, and the breathtaking heights of the Skippers Canyon lookout (weather permitting). Along the way, iconic film locations reveal themselves: the Ford of Bruinen, the towering Pillars of the Kings, the mist-shrouded Gladden Fields, and more.

Travellers can enjoy a refreshing morning or afternoon tea and make use of an impressive collection of licensed replica props, perfect for capturing your own heroic moments. Copies of original scripts and production call sheets add extra depth, enriching the experience with the lore and creativity behind the films.

A must-do for fans and adventurers alike, this tour blends cinematic wonder with real-world beauty. An unforgettable journey across the landscapes of Middle-earth!

Day 21 Queenstown + Lake Cruise with High Country Farm Dinner

Today relax and explore Queenstown and its surrounding towns. Take the picturesque 30 min drive to historic Arrowtown, and enjoy a short walk around the Chinese miners village or along the historic cobble stone streets lined with tiny miner’s cottages. Or add on one of the must do activities in Queenstown.

In the evening relive the elegance of turn-of-the-century travel with a cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, the only coal fired passenger carrying vessel still operating in the southern hemisphere. Step aboard – watch the stokers fuelling the fireboxes and hear the hiss of the steam engines working as the TSS Earnslaw takes you on a nostalgic cruise over beautiful Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm where you will enjoy a stunning gourmet BBQ dinner. An entertaining after dinner farm show provides a glimpse into high country farming life. Then on your return cruise to Queenstown, relax with a drink from the bar or join a fun sing-along with the ship’s pianist and make a toast to a fantastic New Zealand guided tour!

Day 22 Depart Queenstown

Depart Queenstown. Your guide will personally deliver you to the airport ready for your departing flight.

Plan a New Zealand Guided Tour

Each New Zealand guided tour package is fully customisable and date flexible. The itinerary and inclusions will be tailored to suit your group. Suited for couples, families, and groups, each escorted tour package is all-inclusive for maximum convenience.

As you begin planning your New Zealand guided tour, your personal travel consultant will discuss any special interests, preferences, and must-see destinations.

We also offer a range of alternative tour packages through our New Zealand Guided Tours brand.

Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to begin planning your tour.