1-855-602-7447
Experts available 7 days a week!
Hotels & Resort Deals
Select a destination...
View All Hotels & Resort Deals
Vacation Interests
Miscellaneous
Tours By Type
Tour Deals
Select a destination...
View All Tour Deals
Cruises From
Vacation Interests
Career Discounts
Featured Destinations
Select a destination for info and deals...
Destination Ports
Cruises sailing in each region...
- Transfer Your Booking To Us
- Book Shore Excursions
- Book Land Tours
- Save on Passport & Visa Services
-
![Arrow]()
View All Customer Service Resources
Saving Tools
- Access Reservation (web-made bookings only)
- Make a Payment
- Add Travel Insurance
- Pre-Cruise Registration
For Existing Reservations
- Land Vacation FAQs
- Cruise FAQs
- Cruise Port Directions
- Contact Us
Useful Links
Best Of New Zealand: Mountain Biking & Black-Sand Beaches
-
Length
21 Days
-
Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Auckland (New Zealand)
-
Ends in
Wellington (New Zealand)
-
Available Tour Start Dates
APR 4, 2026 to JAN 14, 2028
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Style
Fully-Guided
-
Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
-
Special Interest(s)
18-to-Thirtysomethings
Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$2,811.75
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Now's the time to explore New Zealand on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. They say good travel happens on small islands. Regardless of whether or not that's an actual saying, the small islands of New Zealand pack plenty of exploratory punch. Go from kayaking in Raglan to hiking in Abel Tasman National Park to cruising remote fjords and taking in some Insta-worthy views. But if you're short on travel dollars, fear not; this trip squeezes in the very best of both the North and South Islands into an affordable, action-packed 21-day itinerary where you'll move swiftly without feeling rushed.
Visited During Tour
Abel Tasman National Park (New Zealand) | Auckland (New Zealand) | Christchurch / Otautahi (New Zealand) | Franz Josef / Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere (New Zealand) | Kaikoura (New Zealand) | Lake Tekapo / Takapo (New Zealand) | Queenstown (New Zealand) | Raglan (New Zealand) | Rotorua (New Zealand) | Taupo (New Zealand) | Wellington (New Zealand) | Westport (New Zealand)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Best Of New Zealand: Mountain Biking & Black-Sand Beaches tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code ONNS-11571
-
Day
1Auckland
Arrive at any time. There are no activities until an evening welcome meeting, so head out and enjoy the city.
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 Harbour on 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.
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Connect With New Friends
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
3Optional Activities for Day 1
Show -
Day
2Auckland/Raglan
Begin your journey along backroads to Bridal Veil Falls where the group will head out on a short walk through north island native bush to this stunning waterfall. Continue onwards to the surf town of Raglan, first up it is time to get on the water for some sea kayaking. The group will then head to our accommodation right in the middle of the surf and arts town of Raglan for the next two nights.
Travel to Raglan, a cool coastal town famous for its black sand beach and surf break. You'll kayak to a remote part of the harbour for a boat cruise and lunch, before heading to our accommodation, close to the action in Raglan this evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sea Kayaking
Tour Raglan's secluded bays and unique coastline by kayak. Paddle the inner harbour to get up close to wildlife, fish, and (fingers crossed) orcas. Discover the pancake rocks on the harbour's northern side.
-
Day
3Raglan
Spend the full day in Raglan, home to a world-famous surf break. There's no better way to live like the locals do, so grab a surf board and jump right in with an included lesson. You'll also have plenty of time to relax and soak up the laid-back coastal vibes while swapping stories with your travel buddies.
Head down to the beach for an included surf lesson. The afternoon is free to do what you choose.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Enjoy free time any way you want in this surfing town. Head to the beach to hang ten or relax with a cold drink and plan your next activities.
Surf Lesson
Learn how to catch a wave in this surf lesson. Start with instruction on dry land before heading into the surf. Take advantage of the large soft boards used in class (they help everyone stand up).
-
Day
4Raglan/Rotorua
Another day, another chance to explore! Today the group will begin journeying to Rotorua with a stop along the way in Waitomo. Here you can choose to go caving in the famous Waitomo Caves, where you will see glow worms light up the cave's ceiling just like stars in the night sky. Next up is Rotorua, notable for its geothermal activity. In the evening you'll visit a thermal valley for an engaging cultural experience by night at the Te Puia Village.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Te Puia Geyser by Night
See the famous Te Puia Geyser during this sensory cultural experience. Be guided by a local Maori guide on this 2 hour tour set in the Te Puia thermal valley and enjoy a delicious traditional kainga waru pudding cooked in their natural hot spring.
2Optional Activities for Day 4
Show -
Day
5Rotorua/Taupo
Spend a free morning in fascinating Rotorua. Opt to explore hot springs, walking past bubbling mud pits and multi-coloured pools, or go on a white-water rafting excursion. Depart Rotorua in the afternoon and travel to Taupo. Along the way stop for a visit to the mighty Huka Falls, these impressive falls are not to be missed on the North Island. Arrive in Taupo, and experience an afternoon together sailing New Zealand's largest lake.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
With lots to see and do in Rotorua, get out and explore!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Huka Falls
Visit the mighty Huka falls. With more than 220,000 litres of water per second flowing over an 11 metre high waterfall, these impressive falls are an attraction not to be missed.
3Optional Activities for Day 5
Show -
Day
6Taupo/Wellington
Hit the road to the nation's capital at the southern end of the North Island. Take in the ever-changing scenery, swap travel stories with your group, and simply reflect on your journey. The group will arrive early enough to visit the National Museum, Te Papa - home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. Then the choice is yours, so take that cable car ride to the hills overlooking the city, or make that stroll along the Oriental Parade happen because you're here now and you might as well take advantage of everything around you. The group will finish the day off with an optional night out on the town together in the central business district.
Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Arrive early enough for a visit to the National Museum, Te Papa.Take a short walk from our accommodation to see the sights of the central business district. Finish the day off with an optional night on the town.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Spend some time exploring the city.
Big Night Out
Whether it's a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
2Optional Activities for Day 6
Show -
Day
7Wellington/Abel Tasman National Park
Don't forget those cameras before hopping on the morning ferry to cross the Cook Strait. Pro tip: make sure you stand outside and marvel at the views of the Marlborough Sounds at the tip of the South Island. Then drive past lush native forests, beautiful clear waters, blue skies, and golden sands as the group travels to Abel Tasman National Park.
Catch a morning ferry and cross the scenic Cook Strait. Make sure to stand outside and enjoy the views of the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island. Disembark and transfer to Abel Tasman National Park, well-known for its stunning white sand beaches.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
-
Day
8Abel Tasman National Park
Picture this: birdsong ringing from the treetops as you wander through the undergrowth stumbling upon occasional waterfalls nestled in the midst of the forest. You take a dip in one of the refreshing pools before finding your way to pristine coastline and turquoise bays where you can soak up the sun and relax in the sand.This is the kind of day that awaits you in Abel Tasman NP, you are free to explore the golden beaches and winding waterways any way you'd like! So have fun, build a sand castle for us, and let the adventures continue!
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Abel Tasman National Park Walk
Catch an Aqua Taxi from your accommodation in Marahau up to Anchorage. Walk back to Marahau at your own pace, and make stops along the way at some of the world's most scenic golden sand beaches to relax in the sun.
3Optional Activities for Day 8
Show -
Day
9Abel Tasman National Park/Westport
It's off to Westport today! Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the beautiful views as the group heads south down the coast of black-sand beaches. Make a (very cool) pit stop to a seal colony in Cape Foulwind and watch these majestic animals in their habitat before continuing on to Westport for the evening. Once you arrive grab a beer, talk to some locals, and discover the true charm of this coal mining town.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
1Optional Activities for Day 9
Show -
Day
10Westport/Franz Josef
Continue on a scenic drive south along the coast to Punakaiki; think pancake rocks and blowholes (man, those are two random things we never thought would be in the same sentence). As a special spot full of local secrets, Punakaiki is a great place to hop out of the bus, stretch those legs, and appreciate the strange beauty nature can create.
Continue following the coastal road towards Franz Josef arriving at a unique wilderness lodge set in the rainforest for the night.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Free Time
With tons of optional activities available around Franz Josef, get out there and explore!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
-
Day
11Franz Josef
Enjoy a free day in Franz Josef. Today is all yours to spend as you please! From hiking to kayaking and walking on a glacier, there's bound to be something you'll want to check off that bucket list.If your goal is to make actual contact with the glacier then try a heli-hike or guided ice walk. Or you could let nature be your guide and lose yourself in the rainforests, lakes, and waterfalls that surround Franz Josef. If you'd rather stay in town, then grab a bite to eat before booking a spa treatment at the Glacier Hot Pools... the choice is yours!
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Enjoy a free day to explore the beautiful Franz Josef area.
3Optional Activities for Day 11
Show -
Day
12Franz Josef/Queenstown
Hit the road to the adventure capital of the world - Queenstown. Sit back, relax, and gaze out the window as you leave Glacier Country, winding through lush forests and over Haast Pass. Along the way, make a stop in Wanaka, where you'll have the chance to snap a photo of the iconic Wanaka Tree, one of New Zealand's most photographed natural landmarks. The photo opportunities will seem endless (make sure those cameras are charged!). Then gear up and get ready, because the adrenaline is going to be pumping over the next few days.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Stop en route in Wanaka
En route to Queenstown, pause in Wanaka for free time to explore the lakeside town and snap a photo of the iconic That Wanaka Tree, set against the stunning Southern Alps backdrop.
-
Day
13Queenstown
Let's put it this way, if you're the sort of person that loves adventure mixed with adrenaline all while exploring one of the most scenic places in the country, then Queenstown is for you!Gear up for a free day that is sure to leave you breathless. Opt to be a dare devil and get ready to have those hearts pumping with some adrenaline-filled options like jet boating, bungee jumping, or skydiving.
If you have pre-booked the Queenstown Jet Boating, your CEO will inform you when you will do the activity during your tour, as days are subject to change.Please note - in the winter months (early/mid June to early/mid October) skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps is a highlight for any visitor. Most of the optional activities are also available, ask your CEO which ones are in season.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Do as much or as little as wanted during a free day to explore the area.
6Optional Activities for Day 13
Show -
Day
14Queenstown
Let your breathing return to normal today with a slower pace in Queenstown. Enjoy free time to explore at your own rhythm - stroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, browse local boutiques, relax in a lakeside cafe, or opt for one of the many adventure activities the town is famous for. For those wanting to experience one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders, an optional excursion to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound is available. Journey through dramatic alpine scenery before boarding a boat cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls in this breathtaking fjord - one of the wettest and most awe-inspiring places on Earth. Whether you choose relaxation or adventure, regroup in Queenstown this evening and swap stories from the day.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
There's plenty to see and do in Queenstown, 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 Milford Sound, mountain biking, bungee jumping, and jet boating. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
1Optional Activities for Day 14
Show -
Day
15Queenstown
Gear up for round two of free time in Queenstown that is sure to leave you breathless. Choose to be a daredevil and get those hearts pumping with adrenaline-filled options like jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking, or skydiving. If you prefer a slower pace, take in the breathtaking scenery and vibrant atmosphere as you explore local restaurants and cafes. You might also venture out with your CEO on a scenic day trip to Glenorchy at the head of Lake Wakatipu, where dramatic alpine landscapes made famous as filming locations for The Lord of the Rings create an unforgettable backdrop. Weather permitting, you'll also have the option to discover the beautiful Bob's Cove Track, an epic coastal hike with stunning lake and mountain views.Note: Weather can be a wild card-your CEO may switch things up to keep the day epic, rain or shine.
If you have pre-booked the Queenstown Jet Boating, your CEO will inform you when you will do the activity during your tour, as days are subject to change.Please note - in the winter months (early/mid June to early/mid October) skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps is a highlight for any visitor. Most of the optional activities are also available, ask your CEO which ones are in season.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Do as much or as little as wanted during a free day to explore the area. Queenstown is the perfect place to venture out of those comfort zones as you take part in adrenaline pumping activities.
6Optional Activities for Day 15
Show -
Day
16Queenstown / Arrowtown / Tekapo
Start the day with a relaxed start to the day in Queenstown before departing for a scenic drive. Stop in the charming historic village of Arrowtown, often considered one of New Zealand's most beautiful small towns and known for its gold-rush history and beautifully preserved streets. Then continue on to the stunning shores of Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and mountain backdrop, where we'll be staying for the next two nights.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Stop en route in Arrowtown
Stop in Arrowtown for time to explore its charming historic streets, browse local boutiques and cafes, and experience the gold-rush heritage of this picturesque alpine village - recently awarded one of New Zealand's "Most Beautiful Small Towns" and now one of the country's most trending destinations.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
2Optional Activities for Day 16
Show -
Day
17Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park / Tekapo
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 relaxing by the shores of the glacial lakes while admiring views of New Zealand's highest peak.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy free time in the area to go for a hike in the beautiful scenery or to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
-
Day
18Tekapo to Christchurch
Scoot on up to Christchurch to explore the South Island's largest city, famous for its English-style gardens and quirky street art. Enjoy free time to wander the city, check out its cafe culture and creative vibes, and see what the nightlife is all about with your travel tribe.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Spend the afternoon exploring Christchurch during free time.
-
Day
19Christchurch/Kaikoura
Mountains, marine life, and magic! Kaikoura is pretty darn special, so special in fact, that it may be the South Island's best kept secret. The best way to experience it is to get out there and witness what this rugged coastal town does best. Book a whale watching cruise, swim with dolphins, or just take a walk along the coast admiring the scenery. In the afternoon try bird watching, swim with dolphins or splurge on flight over the peninsula.
Spend the afternoon swimming with dolphins 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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Head out and explore this beautiful area. View some of the wildlife in the area or hit the trails to get a workout with a view.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
4Optional Activities for Day 19
Show -
Day
20Kaikoura/Wellington
Reminisce and reflect on your time in New Zealand as you and the group travel to Picton to catch a ferry back to Wellington. Watch the majestic scenery of this country unfold before you and simply appreciate the moment (we know you're probably already making plans to return.) Once back in the city grab some grub with your travel crew and let the good times roll for one last night out together in New Zealand.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Big Night Out
Immerse yourself in the nightlife of Wellington on this night out with the group. Put those competitive hats on and play games at Blend Bar (may the best person win) and then put those dancing shoes to good use as you shimmy and shake the night away with your adventure buddies by your side. There's no one cooler than this travel crew right here!
-
Day
21Wellington
Depart at any time.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Best Of New Zealand: Mountain Biking & Black-Sand Beaches tour:
Group Size
Max 20, avg 16
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour First Night Out Moment: Connect With New FriendsYour Hands-On Moment: Surf Lesson, RaglanYour Big Night Out Moment: WellingtonYour Discover Moment: Franz JosefYour Discover Moment: QueenstownYour Big Night Out Moment: Wellington. Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan). Surf lesson in Raglan. Maori cultural experience. Huka Falls. Lake Taupo Sailboat Trip. Boat excursion to Abel Tasman National Park. Walks in Abel Tasman National Park. Seal colony visit. Pancake Rocks. Lake Matheson walk. Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Milford Sound day cruise (available through September 30). Lake Tekapo Bike Ride (available through September 30). All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Highlights
Dive into Maori culture and come out knowing things you didn't before, Get your adrenaline fix in Rotorua and Queenstown, Explore Abel Tasman by foot, by boat, and by total disbelief, Take a jaw-dropping trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Auckland- Maritime Museum Visit (24NZD per person)- Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour) (210NZD per person)Waiheke Island- Waiheke Island Excursion (62-369NZD per person)Waitomo- Waitomo Valley Walk (Free)Waitomo Caves- Waitomo Cave Excursion (99NZD per person)Rotorua- Rotorua Canopy Tours (199-269NZD per person)- Hot Springs (50-360NZD per person)- Whitewater Rafting (135NZD per person)Wellington- Te Papa Museum Visit (35NZD per person)- Wellington Cable Car (6-12NZD per person)Abel Tasman National Park- Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking/Hike (230NZD per person)- Canyoning (280NZD per person)- Sailing (148NZD per person)Westport- Surfing in Westport (90NZD per person)Franz Josef- Franz Josef Kayaking (149-169NZD per person)- Heli Scenic Flight with Snow Landing (385-655NZD per person)- Hiking (Free)Queenstown- Vineyard Tour (189-265NZD per person)- Gondola Ride (66-215NZD per person)- Shotover Canyon Swing (295-590NZD per person)- Skydiving (449-549NZD per person)- Queenstown Jet Boating (179NZD per person)- Bungee Jumping (320-805NZD per person)Milford Sound- Milford Sound Day Trip & CruiseLake Tekapo- Dark Sky Project - The Crater Experience (129-219NZD per person)- Tekapo Hot Springs (40-189NZD per person)Kaikoura- Hiking (Free)- Whale Watching (175NZD per person)- Scenic Flight (250NZD per person)- Dolphin Tour (135NZD per person)
What transportation will we take on this trip?
Our vans are mini-coaches. Occasionally with smaller group sizes we will use smaller, equally comfortable 13-seater vehicles. All mini-coaches tow a trailer for luggage and camping equipment (when needed). All groups have one CEO/Driver.The vehicles are factory built with comfortable seats and air-conditioning. It is mandatory to wear a seatbelt while riding in our vehicles.
Accommodation Summary
Hostels and basic lodges (20 nts, multi-share with 4-8 people) **All nights are multi-share on this trip.
Meals Included
19 breakfasts, 5 dinners
What are the meals like on this trip?
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.Please note that most included breakfasts will consist of cereal, milk, bread and spreads, juice, tea and instant coffee. Having a simple breakfast together most days allows us the flexibility to get on the road early and get from point A to B all that much faster.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
What is the group leader like?
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private vehicle, bus, boat, ferry, kayak, walking.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Notes
1) Please also note that when in Franz Josef optional activities may be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.2) COMBO TRIPPlease 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.
Checklist
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoeso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao SwimwearNote: The weather in New Zealand varies depending on the season. Make sure to check the forecast for the time you will be visiting and pack weather appropriate clothing for your trip.
Packing Note
The weather in New Zealand varies depending on the season. Make sure to check the forecast for the time you will be visiting and pack weather appropriate clothing for your trip.
Service Level
Basic: Simple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.