30 Day New Zealand 100% Pure Private Guided Tour

Explore New Zealand with one of our escorted New Zealand holidays. Private guided trips to New Zealand are an ideal way to explore New Zealand and are personalised to suit your group. Our private guided trips to New Zealand 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 guided tour packages are flexible and are booked to suit your group’s travel dates and interests.

Read on for more information on the 30 Day New Zealand 100% Pure Private Guided Tour.

30 Day New Zealand 100% Pure Private Guided Tour | Guided Trips to New Zealand

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Arrive in Auckland – the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and is bordered by two stunning harbours. Our guided trips to New Zealand begin when your tour guide meets you at the airport. First, your guide will 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 3 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Bay of Islands + Discover the Bay Cruise

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 Bay of Islands

Visit the top of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and venture to Cape Reinga. This full day trip takes you to one of the most northern points of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide.

On the way to Cape Reinga you could visit Gumdiggers park where ancient Kauri forest was buried thousands of years ago. A giant 100,000 year old Kauri tree has been exposed for viewing and is part of a vast forest buried beneath Gumdiggers Park. Information spots and an audio visual show describe the cataclysmic events which could have caused this destruction. Studies by international scientists on the kauri timber are described, depicting past and future global weather patterns. The site includes an authentic preserved 100 year old gum field and a recreated gum diggers village with huts made in the traditional way from jute sacks. Original equipment can be found along the discovery trail as well as a gecko house with rare Northland Geckos.

Day 5 Auckland

Travel time Bay of Islands to Auckland – 3.5 hours

Journey back to Auckland at your leisure.

Relax in Auckland for the afternoon or add-on an America’s Cup Sailing experience, a must do attraction in Auckland, spend 2 hours out on the harbour on an actual America’s Cup yacht!

The Auckland Museum is well worth a visit, with priceless Maori treasures and amazing natural history on display. You can experience daily Maori cultural performances which include a welcome dance, poi dance, stick game, weaponry display and haka. In addition, you will find an ever-changing feast of local and international exhibitions.

Stay 1 night in Auckland City.

Day 6 Coromandel Peninsula

Travel time Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula – 3 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. Relax on the coastline, exploring beaches, volcanic reefs and the world-famous Cathedral Cove!

In the afternoon, your guide can show you some of the best hidden secrets of the Coromandel. These include lush forest walks and secluded golden-sand beaches.

Stay 2 nights in Whitianga, Coromandel.

Day 7 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 8 Hobbiton Movie Set Tour > Rotorua + Skyline Gondola Dinner

Travel time Coromandel Peninsula to Matamata – 2.5 hours

Travel to Matamata to discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland near Matamata to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy in a fascinating two-hour guided tour. The set has been rebuilt and will remain as it was seen in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. There are spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and beef farm. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shires Rest Café.

Travel time Matamata to Rotorua – 1 hour

Enjoy the scenic journey to Rotorua, distinguished by Maori culture and geothermal activity. This diverse city will put on a display as you encounter geysers, mud pools, steaming craters and 16 beautiful lakes.

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 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. Add to that a range of sumptuous desserts, and you’ve got yourself a unique dining experience not to be missed. Tiered seating guarantees stunning views from every table!

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 9 Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa + Māori Culture Evening Experience

In the morning, step into Wai Ariki, a place where Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and warm hospitality converge. Nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values. Experience a world of uniqueness that transcends borders and touches hearts. Wai Ariki awaits to embrace you with its magic.

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.

Day 10 Taupo

Travel time Rotorua to Taupo – 1 hour

Relax in Taupo for the day. Taupo is a great lake for water-skiing, sailing and kayaking. The Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, which can only be seen from the water, make for a great boat trip or kayaking excursion. The forests surrounding the lake offer hiking and mountain biking to suit all levels of experience. Just north of Lake Taupo you’ll find New Zealand’s most visited attraction, the magnificent Huka Falls, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second.

You might like to add-on a scenic floatplane flight.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 11 Wellington

Travel time Taupo to Wellington – 5.5 hours

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.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 12 Wellington

Your guide will help you become acquainted with this charming city today – you can visit top Wellington attractions such as Te Papa, Weta Workshop, Wellington Cable Car, Mt Victoria Lookout and Wellington Zoo. You may also 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.

You have the option to add-on a Lord of the Rings Tour.

Day 13 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. Upon reaching the South Island, your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the Marlborough wine region. Along the way, you have the option to stop at a winery (or two!) for samples of the award-winning wines.

Recognised internationally for its distinctive, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest winemaking region, home to about 65 wineries, 290 grape growers, and over 4,000 hectares planted in grapes – mainly Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.

Spend the evening in Kaikoura, a stunning coastal town with a backdrop of majestic mountains. Be sure to sample the superb local seafood at dinner!

Stay 2 nights in Kaikoura.

Day 14 Kaikoura

This morning, take a scenic cruise to view the majestic Sperm Whales off the Kaikoura Coast. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s only marine-based whale watching company, offering visitors enchanting up-close encounters with Sperm Whales at all times of the year. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.

Relax in Kaikoura this afternoon. You might like to enjoy one of the many walks including the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. This 11.7-kilometre loop-walk crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, giving you uninterrupted views of the Seaward Kaikoura Range and the stunning coastline.

Kaikoura Museum offers a modern and relaxed environment with a contemporary and fun approach to telling the stories of Kaikoura’s natural, social and cultural journey.

Day 15 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.

Explore Christchurch with your guide, options include; experiencing Christchurch Tramway, Gondola, Botanic Gardens, Punting on the Avon River, visiting the International Antarctic Centre, venturing to Sumner Beach or dining and shopping at the Riverside Market.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Day 16 Lake Tekapo + Stargazing Experience

Travel time Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – 3.5 hours

Depart Christchurch and travel south to Lake Tekapo. This far-reaching road adventure takes you from sea level to the mountains. You will begin with the flat green tranquillity of the Canterbury Plains, but it won’t be long before you climb through the tussocky wilds towards the Southern Alps. An amazing smoky turquoise lake announces that you have arrived in Lake Tekapo.

This evening, enjoy an incredible stargazing experience. Your expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing the science and the stories of our Southern skies. Stargaze using the naked eye guided by lasers and then proceed to explore deeper through up to 16″ optical telescopes, including in the private observatory dome. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies; every night sky beholds something different.

Stay 2 nights in Lake Tekapo.

Day 17 Mount Cook, Glacier Explorers Tour + Tekapo

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook Village – 1.5 hours (each way)

Enjoy the short but stunningly beautiful journey past Lake Pukaki to Mount Cook Village.

This morning enjoy a Glacier Explorers Tour, the only tour of its kind in New Zealand and one of the only accessible glacial lakes containing icebergs in the world. An amazing encounter with New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Explore and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape as you journey across the terminal lake in our custom-built MAC Boats with your experienced guides. Icebergs of every shape and size periodically tear away from the face of the glacier into the rapidly growing lake. Lateral moraines rear up almost 200m to remind us of the scale and greatness that the glacier has reached in previous times.

Return to Lake Tekapo this afternoon and enjoy exploring the area with your guide.

Day 18 Dunedin

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Dunedin – 4.5 hours

Travel to Dunedin, one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the southern hemisphere. Dunedin offers a diverse range of experiences. These include the Otago Museum, the Speight’s Brewery, Larnach Castle and of course the stunning Otago Peninsula.

Explore Dunedin and visit attractions of interest such as the Olveston Historic Home, Dunedin Railway Station or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum. You may also like to go for a browse around the shops, stop for a coffee or a nice lunch in one of the prestigious cafés and restaurants Dunedin has to offer.

Stay 2 nights in Dunedin.

Day 19 Larnach Castle + Dunedin

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 20 Invercargill via the Catlins

Travel time Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins – 4 hours

Along the way to Invercargill, your guide will take you on a tour of the remote Catlins coast, where you will find pounding waterfalls, the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, 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.

In the evening, relax in Invercargill or visit the beautifully landscaped town gardens.

Stay 1 night in Invercargill.

Day 21 Te Anau + Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Travel time Invercargill to Te Anau – 2 hours

Enjoy the journey through southern farmland to reach Te Anau.

In the afternoon take the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour. Explore a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of thousands of glowworms. Your Te Anau Glowworm Cave adventure begins with a cruise across beautiful Lake Te Anau on board the catamaran Luminosa to the western side of the lake.

Stay 1 night in Te Anau.

Day 22 Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Travel Time Te Anau to Manapouri – 20 minutes

Doubtful Sound is unspoiled, unmatched and unforgettable. So get ready to create some lifelong memories as the Fiordland Navigator takes you through the ultimate Doubtful Sound experience. Your getaway starts in Manapouri with a short cruise across Lake Manapouri. A coach then takes you across Wilmot Pass, travelling on a sub-alpine road through dense rainforest. Arriving at Deep Cove you’ll be met by our crew and the majestic Fiordland Navigator.

Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, the Fiordland Navigator blends old world charm with modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar and an observation lounge. As you cruise through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, your knowledgeable nature guides will provide commentary ensuring you miss nothing, be it the pod of resident dolphins, fur seals or rare penguins you might encounter.

After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, you can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat – or to simply relax on board. For the adventurous (or very brave), there’s even a chance to go swimming. All activities are weather dependent.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious three-course buffet dinner prepared by your on-board chef and served in the dining saloon. Mingle with fellow travellers, savour some of the fine wines at the licensed bar and if the skies are clear in the evening, spend some time on the upper deck gazing at the stars.

Stay 1 night aboard the Fiordland Navigator.

Day 23 Queenstown + Shotover Jet

Travel time Manapouri to Queenstown – 2.5 hours

Take your time to enjoy this drive through quaint rural country towns and take in some surreal views from the southern side of Lake Wakatipu before you arrive in Queenstown.

This afternoon, get ready for the world’s most exciting jet boat ride! Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons. It’s a thrilling ride—skimming past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet ‘Big Red,’ you will twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight—hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360º spins!

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 24 Glenorchy + Queenstown

Explore Glenorchy with your guide. At the Head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is nestled between the Richardson (east) and Humboldt (west) Mountain Ranges and overlooked by the mighty snow-capped Mount Earnslaw in the north.

Home to approximately 200 people, Glenorchy is a welcoming and vibrant town offering a range of cafes, restaurants, shops, hiking and fishing. Glenorchy’s surrounding landscape has become a prime location for film scouts, and was chosen to depict many scenes in the award-winning Lord of the Rings movies. More recently, the area has featured in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia, Hercules, and countless adverts.

Day 25 TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Lunch Queenstown

Today, relax and explore Queenstown with your guide.

In the afternoon 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 lunch. 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.

In the evening, relax in the Onsen Hot Pools in your own private pool for one hour. Onsen Hot Pools is located high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, providing views over breathtaking alpine scenery and the perfect vantage point to watch the Shotover Jet boats on the river below.

Day 26 Wanaka

Travel time Queenstown to Wanaka – 1.5 hours

Drive over the beautiful Crown Range, one of New Zealand’s highest alpine roads, and admire the fantastic views along the way. Be sure to stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel or the Cardrona Distillery before your arrival into Wanaka, an alpine town boasting panoramic views, a relaxing atmosphere and myriad walking tracks.

Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.

Day 27 Wanaka

Relax in Wanaka, exploring attractions with your guide such as Puzzling World, Wanaka’s illusional attraction, or the National Toy and Transport Museum. Other options include strolling along one of Wanaka’s stunning walking tracks, relaxing on the lake’s edge or browsing through Wanaka’s boutique shops.

You could also visit Rippon Vineyard and Tasting Room to sample local wines, or catch a film at Cinema Paradiso, Wanaka’s quirky local theatre.

Day 28 Franz Josef

Travel time Wanaka to Franz Josef – 4.5 hours

Discover the Haast Pass Highway where there are many short walks and natural attractions to view along the way. Continue north, through dense rain forest broken by rugged coastal vistas, towards New Zealand’s glaciers.

Franz Josef’s cloak of ice once flowed from the mountains right to the sea. Following millennia of gradual retreat, the glacier is now 19 km inland and accessible only by helicopter.

Stay 1 night in Franz Josef.

Day 29 Hokitika

Travel time Franz Josef to Hokitika – 2 hours

Discover the rugged West Coast as you travel to Hokitika, famous for its arts and crafts. Watch a masterpiece being crafted from gold, silver, molten glass, bone, silk or greywacke or carve your own creation from wood or jade “pounamu.” Take in Hokitika’s natural beauty, enjoy its expansive beach or one of the many walking and mountain bike tracks.

While in Hokitika, you may wish to make the scenic drive to Hokitika Gorge, where an impressive turquoise river flows through a narrow canyon, or Lake Kaniere, a beautiful lake nestled beneath the mountains.

You could also visit the National Kiwi Centre, where you will be able to see a rare kiwi; view New Zealand’s living dinosaur, the Tuatara; and participate in feeding the giant eels. Or make a drive north to Shantytown. Explore the heritage village, ride the steam train, try your hand at panning for gold, and take old-time styled photos.

Stay 1 night in Hokitika.

Day 30 TranzAlpine Greymouth > Christchurch

Travel time Hokitika to Greymouth – 30 minutes
Train travel time Greymouth to Christchurch – 4.5 hours

Leave the rugged West Coast behind today as you board the TranzAlpine Train for a fantastic journey through Arthurs Pass. Travel past the soaring peaks and braided rivers of the Southern Alps, through the gorges of the Waimakariri River, and past the rolling Canterbury Plains.

Your guide will meet you at the train station and bring you to your accommodation.

Enjoy your last evening in Christchurch and celebrate a fantastic New Zealand Guided Tour!

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Day 31 Depart Christchurch

Your Guide will deliver you to Christchurch Airport today for your departing flight.

Planning Privately Guided Trips to New Zealand

Because each traveller is different, each of the guided trips to New Zealand we book are different. Your experienced travel consultant will work with you to tailor this itinerary to match your interests and preferences.

In addition, our guided trips to New Zealand are open-dated, which means you can choose your travel dates based on your own schedule.

From couples and families through to larger groups, our guided trips to New Zealand suit all travellers. The per-person price decreases with more travellers, so you have the option to gather a group of friends or extended family for a more affordable tour.

We also offer a range of additional guided trips to New Zealand through our New Zealand Guided Tours brand. Tour in comfort with a luxury vehicle or bus, and enjoy the commentary and local insights of your private guide.

Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to begin planning your all-inclusive privately escorted tour.