new zealand travel brokers

Explore The World With Us

We are motivated and passionate industry professionals, proud to be running a company that’s  100% Kiwi owned and operated. Travel Connections brokers are located in the North and South Islands.

FEATURED DEALS

Southern Balkans: Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo & Macedonia

Explore the history, culture and beauty of the southern balkans with tcnz member project expeditions..

20 DAYS FULLY ESCORTED FROM AUCKLAND

This exciting adventure starts and finishes in Albania, dips into Montenegro then journeys into Kosovo and North Macedonia. This tour promises immense beauty, fascinating history and some fantastic food.

Tour Dates: 13 May – 02 June 2025

Highlights & Inclusions • Wander the Medieval Bazaar of Kruja and the hidden paths of Kruja castle in northern Albania • Explore the medieval walled city of Kotor in Montenegro. • Discover Prizren the culture capital of Kosovo and former crossroad of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires • Explore the ancient city of Ohrid, North Macedonia, one of the oldest human settlements in Europe • See the stunning Lake Ohrid, one of the deepest lakes in Europe. • Visit the capital city of Skopje, North Macedonia. • Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, Albania’s “City of a Thousand Windows”. • Enjoy the beauty of the Albanian Riviera with its long beaches set against a backdrop of imposing mountain peaks and deep green forests. • Experience the traditional Albanian culture and cuisine. • Fully escorted from Auckland by Project Expeditions Ltd’s Natasha Sinclair with a minimum of 12 people and a maximum of 16 • Flexibility with flights. Travel with the group from Auckland, meet us in Tirana or extend your travels in Europe after the tour

From $7750 per person twin/double + flights

* Rates and offers are subject to change and availability at the time of holding an option.

MEET THE TEAM

Rick Wood Project Expeditions

(09) 528 7788 or 021 654 462

Project Expeditions - Rick Wood

Rick is a travel broker with 45 years of travel industry experience, based in Orakei, Auckland. Rick is an expert in all facets of travel, from holiday packages, organised tours, airfares, cruises and corporate travel. Throughout his years in the industry, Rick has gained a huge amount of in-depth knowledge on many destinations including the Pacific Islands, Australia, Asia, South America, Africa and Europe - as well as worldwide cruising, to name but a few.

Rick has a particular interest in soft/eco adventure groups, some of which are branded through his trading name of Project Expeditions Ltd which he formed in 1983. During the last 33 years Rick has sent over 70 successful tours to Asia, Australia, India, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and South America.

Tasi Afitu Hill

027 490 9199

Tasi has been in the travel industry for more than 25 years, journeyed to over 65 countries, experienced hundreds of beautiful sights, met thousands of interesting personalities, eaten lots of amazing food and is proud and thankful for the fact that her passion and enthusiasm for travel only increases each day. Tasi thrives on providing outstanding customer service and developing a rapport with her clients to ensure their trip is the very best it can be.

Tasi's wanderlust for travel was ignited by the AFS exchange student programme, where at the age of 17 she travelled to Quebec. Not only was she fortunate enough to experience another culture but she met 150 other AFS students from all over the world who were sharing the same experience. A few years later, Tasi spent a year in Turkey working as a tour leader on the Fez Travel Hop-off bus in 1997. Tasi rates the dawn service on ANZAC Day at Gallipoli as one of her most memorable travel experiences. Tasi has a love for languages and is fluent in French, English and Samoan. In 2016 Tasi was voted one of three finalists in the National TAANZ Awards for Best Retail Consultant - it was then that she decided to branch out and become a Travel Broker.

Roni Little

Nelson / marlborough.

(03) 539 1214 or  021 548 747

Roni has an amazing passion for travel and for life! Roni has over 25 years experience and feels extremely privileged to be part of the incredibly exciting travel industry. She has extremely strong industry relationships with all leading New Zealand tourism suppliers and worldwide operators. They provide Roni access to the very best range of travel products including airlines, cruises, coach, rail, walking and cycling.

From Roni’s Nelson based office, at the top of the south island, she designs bespoke and boutique packages, customised to every need for her clients. She prides herself on her high level of attention to detail. Roni understands that planning and researching is an important part of realising her client's travel dreams and she's extremely committed to ensuring that each trip she plans is special and unique. Roni credits her high repeat business to the fact that she always goes the extra mile for her clients, which sees them returning year after year.

Nelson / Tasman / Marlborough

021 545 799

I live in Wakefield which is in Tasman (or for those in the North Island the Nelson area). For the last 20 years, I have owned and operated my own travel business and with over 23 years in the travel industry I have many years of worldly experience. Many of my clients have been with me since I started in travel, and many are now life long friends, this is how I like to do business.

Over the course of my travel career, I have travelled to many countries (in excess of 42) and have experienced all facets of travel, from travelling on a shoestring to staying in 5-star resorts and travelling with group tours. I particularly specialise in organising and coordinating personalised travel itineraries, and also cater to a wide range of travel needs. It doesn't matter whether it is a business trip or that long awaited dream holiday, you will always get the right advice and price for your travel, but don’t take my word for it read what my many clients have written on my website.

Samantha Fowler

(09) 972 2030 or 0800 500 180

Cruise Connections - Samantha Fowler

We are a team of Cruise and Travel specialists, passionate about cruising and travel in general.

Between our team of 5 we have well over 50 years of experience, product knowledge and multiple Awards which reflect our performance within the very competitive world of travel.

We live by the simple philosophy of creating a better experience for you before, during and after your holiday than you’ll receive anywhere else.

We would love the opportunity for you to experience our exceptional service!

Libby Stafford

Cruise connections - libby stafford.

Amber Gilling

Cruise connections - amber gilling.

Joanne Pett Travel Connections Head office

(09) 972 2032

Travel Connections - Joanne Pett

Joanne (Jo) joined the team at Travel Connections in June 2018.

Jo’s role as head office support/admin extraordinaire has enabled Travel Connections to continue to grow at an extraordinary rate.

Jo has been in the travel industry over 20 years and worked in both wholesale and retail environments. She is the very cornerstone of our business model and is always finding ways to help our brokers service their clients above and beyond. From sourcing competitive exchange rates, to implementing our own IATA plate. Everything Jo does supports our brokers and enables them to spend more time with their customers.

Karen Pocklington Travel Connections

021 818 484

Travel Connections - Karen Pocklington

I always think I have the best job in the world because I spend my life completing other people's dreams. I've been in the travel industry for more than 30 years and I am fully committed to using that experience to build very special trips for all my clients. My clients range from very experienced travellers to first-time travellers and are all very different in their own way. To me, being a Travel Expert is all about taking the time with every client; figuring out what each of them needs, so I can genuinely prepare the perfect package to fit them. In one day, I could be sending a client to Queensland for a week of adventure rides with the family, to sending a couple on a bucket list trip around Europe! But you can guarantee, that I will have spent both the time and the effort, to ensure each of these trips brings the client great joy.

To me, it's about making each trip special, by handpicking the very best of products that the global network has on offer. We use the thousands of wholesalers who throw big business at airlines, hotels, tour operators, cruise ships, etc - any adventure you could imagine - to create nothing but the best experience possible, and at the best deal possible. That's why my most experienced travellers don't use the internet to book their travel. They come and talk to me.

Natasha Sinclair Project Expeditions

03 442 4067 or 021 041 8555

Project Expeditions - Natasha Sinclair

An India and Africa expert, for more than 17 years, Natasha has been helping travellers experience travel that is unique and meaningful. As well as running a successful travel wholesale business, she is known for her special-interest tours that she personally escorts.

Natasha works alongside TCNZ member Rick Wood of Project Expeditions. Rick and Natasha share a love of putting together and leading tours that are immersive, insightful to both familiar destinations and those that are well-off the typical tourist trail.

By joining Travel Connections. Natasha is pleased to be able to offer those that travel with her a safe and seamless experience in the post-covid travel environment.

We aim to develop and grow a market leading travel broker model where individual travel brokers own the business, and as such, share in all the benefits and rewards associated with their collective success. The Travel Connections business model is "the more you put in - the more you get out".

Entrepreneurial and highly motivated individuals united by a passion for travel and service excellence. Strong philosophy of transparency, trust and teamwork among all members. Customer centric and focused on harnessing the collective strengths of the group to create a competitive edge.

Our Customers

We make them feel special every time they connect with us. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled customer experience by providing relevant and high quality personalised products and services to every customer, every time. 24/7 support - personalised support every step of the way.

COPYRIGHT 2018 – 2024 TRAVEL CONNECTIONS | WEBSITE BY I4WEBSITEDESIGN

Independent Travel Advisors - As independent as you are    

Featured Deals

Destination Categories

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Looking for deals

Our Annual Conference; Auckland 2019

Our Annual Conference; Taupo 2018

Our Annual Conference; Wellington 2017 - Our 10 Year Celebration at The Beehive

Our Annual Conference; Queenstown 2016

Further enhancing their product knowledge at our Travel Expo

NZ Travel Brokers Ltd

P.O. Box 842 , Palmerston North , New Zealand .

NZ Travel Brokers provide a full range of travel booking and advisory services from our nationwide team of expert Travel Brokers. Call us before you make your next trip, because, without a travel agent, you’re on your own.

NZ Travel Brokers are a team of professional Travel Brokers located throughout the country that are available to manage your next business, holiday, group, or special interest travel requirement. Our point of difference being we predominately contract passionate travel experts who are mobile and work from home. This provides flexibility for them to arrange your travel in the hours and place of your choice. Our team of Travel Brokers work as independent business owners, therefore placing customer retention through superior service and satisfaction as paramount. All of our agents are Travel Agents' Association New Zealand (TAANZ) accredited travel advisors who are committed to looking after you before departure and beyond.

Open in larger map

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

The content on this page was created by NZ Travel Brokers Ltd

This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .

Where it all started...

Kia Ora! It all began in geography class when I was 13. As I learnt about different places, I developed an overwhelming desire to see and experience all I was learning about. My focus became to jump on a jet plane, fly away and see the world.

Leaving school, I worked, saved hard and, at the age of 20, jumped on that jet plane with my friend Lorraine. My Overseas Experience (OE) lasted almost a decade, exploring much of Europe and Asia. Upon returning to New Zealand I was delighted to be employed by Air New Zealand, where I had many great travel experiences.

In 2015, Air New Zealand made the decision to exit the retail travel market. At the time I was managing the Hastings Holiday Store and, after I was made redundant, I explored many avenues, including leaving the travel industry.

It was a big decisin-making time for me and I am thankful for the support of my clients and friends as it became clear that I could not leave the industry. A defining moment was when a client of mine, Ashley Hartly, gave me a fatherly/mentoring chat. I expressed my concerns to him about working for myself.

“Ashley explained to me that it's not about the company you work for. People book with you because of who you are, the service you give, what you do and how you make them feel.”

Ashley Hartley

I had huge respect for Ashley, and his words gave me the confidence to “go for it”. Several years on, it was absolutely the right decision. Travel is in my blood, it's my passion and love, and today I still love creating memorable journeys for my clients and sharing in their love of travel.

My travel experiences have ranged from sleeping on the deck of ferries and floors of trains, or staying in hostels and 2-star hotels, to luxury cruise liners, business class travel and everything in between. These days I don’t tend to sleep on the floor of trains, but recently my husband and myself made the decision to stay in a hostel (albeit a private room) for the location and value. On that same trip we also flew business class and used a low cost airline.

I am constantly putting myself in your shoes and thinking how my experiences can help you. Your travel journey begins with dreaming, and my passion is to help you bring those dreams to life. The key is to ask the right questions! I am with you at every step of the journey, from the initial planning stage to providing support on government regulations and being available for you at any point from start to finish.

Get in Touch

021 670 737

06 211 3719

[email protected]

[email protected] ​ ​

Thanks for submitting!

Travel Agent

Searle Travel Broker

Angela Annear, Senior Travel Agent, Waipukurau, New Zealand.

Hello, I'm Angela, I relieve you from the stress of planning your next holiday by organising individually crafted tours to special places around the world, and of course, New Zealand.

As a Travel Broker for Searle Travel, I'm local, based in Central Hawkes Bay and offer an extensive list of contacts along with many years of experience in creating wonderful holidays and getaways.

I will help you plan, choose and arrange your next adventure, working to your budget  and offer you advice and opinions on where you could to go, as well as local tourist attractions, events and customs that are not-to-be-missed experiences. 

Get in contact with me, Angela, to learn what the latest deals are.

Sign up to my Newsletter

For travel information and new tours options.

You have been subscribed to our newsletter

Customer Testimonials from my New Zealand clients.

Molesworth tour.

Molesworth Station - I thoroughly enjoyed this trip to an unknown part of N.Z. organised by my travel agent. 

The trip was just what we hoped for, well organised and friendly, and covered a wide range of interests.  A.B. and J.B.

Extensive European and USA booking.

Many many thanks for your help with our cancelled bookings due to Covid lockdown.  We really appreciate your help in getting refunds for us. S and L . C.

Russia Tour

A memorable  trip, well organized and were lucky to be accompanied by a congenial group that all got on well.  For me was the ultimate trip of a lifetime that didn't disappointS.C.

Chatham Islands, booked by my New Zealand Travel Agent

Chatham Islands has been on my to-do list for many years. "Islands of amazing contrasts"   MJL "An experience not to be missed" CWL

Peace Of Mind

As an accredited Travel Advisor Angela works for you, offering you a world of choice.

With years of experience, she has long standing relationships with a huge range of suppliers.

Held to the highest industry standards, Accredited Travel Advisors like Angela are the best in the business.

Angela is committed to looking after you before departure and beyond.

Our Services

Family Packages Group Tours Show Packages Sports Packages Tailored Travel

Sign up to our newsletter

Get in touch.

Angela Annear 

angela@searletravel.co.nz

06 858 9082 027 281 1306 Waipukurau, 4200

Hop Abroad Travel

Telling you where to go since 2006.

Santorini, Greece

Moraine Lake, Canada

Monument Valley, USA

Hallstatt, Austria

Paris, France

Turning people's dreams into flights, accommodation and event experiences.

Charmaine Hawke is the Wellington travel broker and problem solver for anyone wanting to travel to any location around the World, including right here in New Zealand!

Specialising in turning people’s dreams into reality, Charmaine admits that the crazier the journey the better the overall experience for both her and the traveller!

Charmaine Hawke is the travel broker and problem solver for anyone wanting to travel to any location around the World, including right here in New Zealand!

Hop Abroard  is on call for all travelling and is at the end of a phone to sort out any last minute travel changes. Charmaine prides herself on thinking differently about how to provide the best travel experience possible for her clients. It is always good to know that there is an expert on hand and responses happening  24 hours, seven days a week.

Our Travel History

Cities visited, trips planned, happy cleints, help calls answered, more than your average travel agent, i am…, passionate about every trip you make, happy to do as much or as little as you need me to do, 24/7 support, the first person you call when anything goes awry, focused on making your travel as stress free as possible, able to use my 15yrs of travel industry relationships for the best deals.

Charmaine Hawke, Karori, Wellington

[email protected]

Wellington Travel Broker

Member of The Travel Brokers, division of Helloworld (NZ) Limited, 66 Wyndham Street, Auckland.

Ultimate New Zealand

24 days | take part in the ultimate journey through new zealand’s natural highlights.

See all the natural and cultural highlights of New Zealand on this 24-day journey through the North and South Islands. First, you’ll explore the sub-tropical islands, expansive coastlines and dense forests of Northland. Soak up the coastal beauty of Tutukaka – home to one of the world’s most gorgeous coastlines (as voted by National Geographic Traveller) – then hit the Bay of Islands for a full-day cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands. Go scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking in your free time before soaking up some of the local cultural history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Visit hot water beach for a swim in Coromandel, see the geothermal springs of Rotorua and go wildlife spotting in Wellington. Ram up the energy in the South Island’s ‘adventure capital of the world’ (Queenstown), then chill out in laidback Wanaka. See the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier, then cross the Southern Alps on a world-famous train journey. Between old forest landscapes, mountain-scapes and glacial hikes, you’ll soon fall head over heels for New Zealand’s natural beauty.

Trip overview

• Cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands on a full-day adventure on the water to see some of the north island’s natural beauty. This area is also a Marine Reserve with volcanic origins over 11 million years old, creating some pretty epic biodiversity.
• Discover the diversity of Rotorua, from unbelievable geothermal activity to rich Maori culture. Visit a Maori village for a hangi dinner and traditional haka performance.
• Admire the out-of-this-world landscapes of Tongariro National Park, from emerald green lakes to soaring volcanic peaks. If you’re up for the challenge, tackle the famous Tongariro Crossing.
• Live it up in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Whether you fancy bungy jumping, jet boating, horseback riding or wine tasting, there’s something here to entice everyone.
• Visit a local gallery in Franz Josef and carve a pendant out of pounamu while learning about the precious stone’s significance to Maori culture.
• This trip is run by Haka Tours, an Intrepid Company. You will be travelling with a mixture of both Haka customers and Intrepid customers. Intrepid works closely with Haka Tours to ensure that all our customers enjoy their time in New Zealand.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 30 April 2025

Welcome to New Zealand! Your adventure begins in Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) with a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not check out the Auckland Sky Tower – the tallest building in New Zealand. If the mood strikes, you can also jump off the Sky Tower (with a harness, of course). Maybe visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum or walk around the CBD at your own pace and pick one of the excellent spots for lunch. Tonight, you’ll head out for a welcome dinner with your group to get to know each other.

• Hotel (1 night)

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café for a dose of warm Kiwi hospitality. Then, take a scenic drive to Tutukaka, stopping at Whangarei Falls along the way. This 26 m-high waterfall is a great spot for a photo! Continue along the coastline to Matapouri Beach. With the soft sand under your feet. You can take some time to enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean. This is a perfect spot to relax, unwind and appreciate the surroundings. Arrive in Tutukaka tonight – a coastal city known for its scenic views, world-famous beaches and coastline (rated one of the top three coastlines in the world by National Geographic Traveller!).

• Matapouri Beach - Visit
• Whangarei Falls - Visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

After breakfast this morning, you’ll set sail on a full-day cruise to the Poor Knights Islands. As a total Marine Reserve, the islands boast 11-million-year-old volcanic origins, featuring some pretty memorable drop-offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels both above and below the water. The rich biodiversity includes plant, animal and fish life unique to the area, so if you’re a wildlife buff this might be the highlight of your trip! Your day will be filled with sightseeing, kayaking, exploring caves, snorkelling, swimming, spotting sea mammals and learning the history of the islands. The highlight of the day is a visit to the world's largest sea cave – Rikoriko Cave, only accessible by boat. Finish your day with a scenic drive to Paihia, where you’ll spend the night.

• Tutukaka - Poor Knights Islands Day Cruise

Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

Today is a free day in Paihia – this coastal town is known as the gateway to the popular dive sites and sandy beaches of the bay. With more than 140 sub-tropical islands dotted around the coastline, there’s plenty to see and do here! Maybe hit the water and explore the many coves and beaches or take a cruise through the natural rock archway. Explore the ocean floor on a scuba mission or maybe set sail in search of local dolphins. If you’re looking for a hit of adrenaline, why not consider going skydiving? Your leader will have the inside scoop on optional activities and the best places to refuel for lunch and dinner.

• Bay of Islands - Skydive - from - NZD329
• Bay of Islands - Island Hopper Day Cruise (October to April only) - NZD185
• Bay of Islands - Hole in the Rock Cruise (4 hours) - NZD150
• Bay of Islands - Discover Scuba Diving - NZD349
• Russell - Ferry - NZD20

Today, you’ll discover the Bay of Islands’ important role in New Zealand’s history with a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Get an insight into Māori culture and see the 35 m carved waka (a ceremonial war canoe) – the biggest in the world! After lunch, say goodbye to the bay and start the journey back to Auckland via Northland’s east coast. Make sure to grab a window seat if you can, as the scenic beaches and coastal walks along the way pass you by. Arrive back in Auckland in the late afternoon and check into your hotel. You’ll have another welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm, then the rest of the evening is yours to do as you please – you might like to take a dip into Auckland’s nightlife.

This is a combination trip, meaning your trip leader and group will likely change today.

Meet your leader and the rest of your group this morning, then leave the bright lights of Auckland City in the rear-view mirror as you jump in your vehicle and drive to the Coromandel Peninsula – the journey is a highlight in itself, following the extraordinary coastline and watching clear blue water stream past the window. A land of white sand beaches and lush rainforests, the Coromandel Peninsula feels a world away from where your journey began. Make a stop at Hot Water Beach, named after the famous warm waters found beneath its golden sand. If the tide allows, dig a hole on the beach and enjoy your own natural hot tub – absolute bliss! After a visit to the famous cathedral Cove arrive at your accommodation in the afternoon.

• Hotel or Motel (1 night)
• Coromandel Peninsula - Cathedral Cove
• Coromandel Peninsula - Hot Water Beach
• Coromandel Peninsula - Cathedral Cove Kayaking - NZD175

Please note that due to severe damage to infrastructure caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023 many roads on the Coromandel Peninsula are impassable. For this reason, some adjustments to your itinerary have been put in place to ensure you are still able to experience New Zealand safely. Your itinerary will be rerouted and will not visit the Coromandel, but will stay overnight in Tauranga instead. This change is in effect until further notice. Your leader will inform you of any further details regarding the daily itinerary and will keep you up to date about potential other changes that may become necessary as you travel.

Hit the road and make a scenic drive to Raglan, passing tree-clad hills and dramatic valleys. The journey will be broken up with photo-worthy stops, including a visit to the magical 55-metre cascade of the Bridal Veil Falls. Widely considered to be New Zealand’s premier surf spot, Raglan is the ideal place to catch some waves, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. If surfing isn’t your thing, the chilled-out town offers a wealth of awesome activities. Check out creative local cafes, shops and galleries, stretch out on the beach and enjoy the view or head out on a hiking trail to get a better look at the landscape. Tonight is set to be one to remember – get on the water for a sunset boat cruise around Raglan Harbour, and tuck into a tasty fish and chips feast while you’re at it – a true Kiwi experience!

• Raglan - Fish & Chips Dinner
• Raglan - Sunset Boat Cruise
• Raglan - Kayaking Tour - NZD89

This morning’s adventure takes you underground during an optional visit to the Waitomo Caves, a subterranean system of caverns and passageways illuminated by thousands of ethereal glow worms. You may like to join a walking tour to hear the story of the caves’ history, geology and connection to Maori mythology. If you’d rather stay on the surface, the Ruakuri Forest walk is a must, cutting through dense rainforest and taking in views of verdant gorges and limestone arches. Tucked into the rolling green hills of Matamata you’ll find Hobbiton, the set where part of the Lord of the Rings films were shot. On a fully guided tour of the set you will see Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and even enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Continue your journey towards Rotorua, known for its Maori heritage, hotbed of geothermal activity and distinctive sulphur smell (you’ll get used to it!). To get your first look at Rotorua’s impressive scenery, take a treetop walk through an ancient redwood forest over a network of suspension bridges, reaching 12 metres at the highest point.

• Waitomo - Ruakuri Bush Walk
• Rotorua - Redwood Forest Canopy Walk
• Rotorua - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
• Waitomo - Glowworm Cave Tour - NZD75

Spend the day discovering the natural and cultural wonders of Rotorua – this unique destination is really like nowhere else in the world. The geothermal activity in the area is second to none – simmering mud pools, dramatic geysers and fluorescent lakes must be seen to be believed. If you’ve got a head for heights, ziplining through Rotorua’s ancient forests is an unbeatable way to take it all in. This evening you’ll get a true taste of Māori culture during a visit to a cultural and geothermal wonderland. Here you’ll enjoy a hangi dinner, a traditional meal cooked underground, giving it a delicious earthy flavour. You’ll also experience a soul-stirring haka performance.

• Rotorua - Pohutu Geyser
• Rotorua - Hangi Dinner & Haka Dance
• Rotorua - Skyline Gondola Rotorua - NZD40
• Rotorua - Mount Tarawera Crater Hike - NZD195
• Rotorua - Forest Ziplining - from - NZD179
• Rotorua - Whitewater Rafting - NZD129
• Rotorua - ZORB - from - NZD40

Take in the sights before heading south to Taupo. Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa is the perfect place to unwind, or head to Kuirau Park to walk through a landscape of hissing natural hot pools. If your morning activities have inspired an appetite, the town is chock full of tempting cafes and bakeries serving up local favourites. Say goodbye to Rotorua and get on the road once more, heading to Taupo. Stop at the thundering Huka Falls during the drive before arriving in Taupo, set on the shores of the mighty Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. We’ll spend two nights here, the perfect base to explore Taupo and Tongariro National Park.

• Taupo - Huka Falls
• Taupo - Skydiving - NZD279

A volcanic eruption 70,000 years ago created the magnificent Lake Taupo, which now hosts visitors from around New Zealand and the world, keen to both relax and get their blood pumping with the adventure sports and hikes on offer. With a free day here, you’ll have plenty to choose from. If you’re a keen hiker, you may like to complete the Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand’s most famous day hike. At 19.4km long, the path takes you around a volcano, past lakes, craters and bush. A variety of guided or unguided options are available, but a good level of fitness and appropriate gear for all types of weather are a must for anyone considering tackling the crossing today. There are shorter hikes in the park available or, for the thrill seekers, you might like to go skydiving or bungy jumping.

• Tongariro National Park - Tongariro Crossing (Unguided, Transport to/from Trail Head only) - from - NZD399

Today's hike on the Tongariro Crossing is optional, and a number of guided or unguided walks are available to be booked. If you choose to tackle the hike without a guide you can book a transfer to and from the trail head at an additional cost.

Wellington is calling – leave Taupo behind and drive on to New Zealand’s trendy and attractive capital city. Strung between staggering green hills and a delightful harbour, Wellington holds onto a small-town charm despite its capital status. The city is known for its creative and artistic endeavours, making it a real joy to explore. Arrive in the afternoon, your leader will give you a brief introduction to the city before you are free to explore as you wish. You may like to head up Mt Victoria for a view that will help you appreciate Wellington in all its glory. The rest of the evening is yours to explore the capital. With a booming food scene, be sure to ask your leader for some wonderful restaurant recommendations.

Today is all about getting to know windy Wellington, a charming place even on its most blustery days! Kick the day off with an orientation tour with your leader, checking out the bays, central Wellington, the Botanic Gardens and the Parliament Buildings. Next up it's a visit to Zealandia, a groundbreaking conservation project that has successfully reintroduced over 20 species of native wildlife into this area, some of which were previously absent from mainland New Zealand for over 100 years. Pay a visit to Weta Workshop, the special effects studio used by Peter Jackson for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. While here you’ll have the chance to take an optional tour around the studio to find out how the team here create film magic. This afternoon, you may like to check out Wellington’s most famous cultural attraction, Te Papa Museum. Displaying an intriguing combination of New Zealand’s history and cultural heritage woven with cutting edge technology and interactive displays, there’s something here to entertain everyone. If you’d rather spend the afternoon outdoors, a tour of Kapiti Island offers the chance to spot an abundance of rare and beautiful birds.

• Wellington - Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary
• Wellington - Kapiti Island Eco Experience - NZD499
• Wellington - Te Papa Museum Tour - NZD20
• Wellington - Weta Workshop Cave Tour - NZD55

Say goodbye to the North Island and cross the Cook Strait on board a ferry, taking in some pretty unforgettable views along the way. Your introduction to New Zealand’s South Island sets the tone for the rest of the journey – pass through the iconic landscapes of the Marlborough Sounds as you cruise into Picton Harbour. Aside from its marvellous scenery, the Marlborough region is known for its production of world-class white wine, so what better way to get a taste of the South Island than by visiting some of its best wineries? Stop by and sample their goods while learning what makes Marlborough wine so renowned. Continue your journey south, eventually arriving in Kaikoura where you will stop for the night. This seaside town is known for its abundance of marine wildlife. This evening perhaps head out for a crayfish dinner – it’s a real specialty here!

Embrace a free morning to enjoy all Kaikoura has to offer. Kaikoura is famously one of the world’s top spots for whale watching, so perhaps take advantage of your time here and head out on a boat trip in search of humpbacks, orcas and sperm whales. Regroup and check out a colony of native fur seals, then depart Kaikoura and travel down to Christchurch, the South Island’s biggest city. Perhaps head out for dinner, or rest up for an exciting day ahead tomorrow. A meeting will take place at your hotel tomorrow morning to welcome any travellers joining you for the next leg of your journey.

As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.

Christchurch is not just a pretty city – it’s also remarkably resilient. After a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the downtown area in 2011, the city has begun to rebuild in innovative and creative ways. Head out with your leader this morning to see this for yourself. Stop by the Christchurch Cathedral, which stood as a symbol of the city before collapsing in the earthquake, and has now been replaced with an architecturally striking and quake-proof structure made out of cardboard. After a morning of exploring, say goodbye to Christchurch and drive inland to Lake Tekapo. An eye-catching combination of purple lupins, turquoise waters and snow-dusted peaks makes this one of the most photo-worthy spots in the country. The Church of the Good Shepherd sits on the shores of the lakes and attracts couples from all over the world shooting their wedding pictures. It’s easy to see why – backdrops don’t get much better than this! Continue to Lake Ohau where you’ll spend the night.

• Lake Tekapo - Mt John Lookout

Hit the road this morning for a journey to remember – watch out the window as you pass the sprawling grasslands of the Mackenzie Basin and showstopping peaks of the Southern Alps. Your drive will be broken up with plenty of scenic stops, including a visit to Kawarau Gorge, a popular spot for bungy jumping. If you’re feeling adventurous, get involved and jump off the suspension bridge crossing the gorge, or just stand back and watch brave jumpers take the plunge. Continue on to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world, and rightfully so! Aside from its high-adrenaline attractions, Queenstown has a booming culinary scene, produces some of the world's best wine and boasts unbelievable scenery at every turn.

• Queenstown - Walter Peak Lake Cruise with Gourmet Dinner - NZD189
• Queenstown - Kawarau Bridge Bungy - NZD265

The day is all yours to discover the varied delights of Queenstown. There are loads of options to get your heartrate up, whether you fancy shooting down the river on a jet boat, river kayaking, flying above the town in a gondola or a 4WD adventure through landscapes of Lord of the Rings fame. If you’d like to take things a little slower, perhaps head to the Gibbston Valley to taste wines only topped by the inspiring scenery. A walk around the stunning Lake Wakatipu will give you a good dose of fresh air and epic views. There’s no shortage of dining options to tempt your tastebuds – if you’re willing to wait, a famous Fergburger is hard to beat!

• Queenstown - Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour - NZD270
• Queenstown - Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise - NZD499
• Queenstown - Skyline Gondola - NZD52
• Queenstown - Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Fly Day Trip - NZD674
• Queenstown - Milford Sound Coach-Cruise-Fly Day Trip - NZD789
• Queenstown - Milford Sound Coach-Cruise-Coach Day Trip - NZD274
• Queenstown - Time Tripper - NZD15
• Queenstown - Shotover River Jet Boat Ride - NZD135

Take the chance this morning to cross off any Queenstown activities you didn’t have time for yesterday – be sure to speak to your leader for tips on the best way to spend a morning here. In the afternoon, get back on the road for a seriously scenic 1-hour drive to Wanaka through the Crown Range Mountains. Stop off along the way in Arrowtown, a little goldrush town with big personality. Take a walk along the tree-lined high street where historic buildings nod to the town’s glory days. Arrive in Wanaka in the afternoon and embrace the vibe of this laidback and beautiful town. With Lake Wanaka as its glittering centrepiece and dramatic mountains as its backdrop, the town is undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s most bewitching. This afternoon you may like to head out on a hike or just stretch out on the shores of the lake and take it all in.

Visit the beautiful Mou Waho Island today. Accessible only by boat from Wanaka and famous for being home to an (unnamed) island, in a lake (Arethusa Pool), on an island (Mou Waho), in a lake (Lake Wanaka), on an island (the South Island) in the ocean (the Pacific). Sounds complicated, but once you are there it will all make sense! Enjoy a walk through this fascinating scenery and learn more about this predator-free reserve with a natural glacial-formed lake at its summit. Your afternoon is free to explore Wanaka and surrounds. No visit to Wanaka would be complete without seeing #thatwanakatree. Springing up from the waters of Lake Wanaka, this sloping willow is one of the most photographed trees in the world. There's no shortage of excellent hiking routes in the region if you'd like to get out and explore on foot, or you may prefer to hire a bike and hit the cycling trails.

• Wanaka - Mou Waho Island Cruise & Guided Nature Walk
• Wanaka - Waterfall Climbing - from - NZD199
• Wanaka - Skydiving - from - NZD379

Enjoy a morning at leisure in Wanaka before getting back on the road and making tracks for Franz Josef. This is another incredible drive that you're going to want to have your camera ready for. Depending on the weather, stop off at either Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka, both boasting incredible lookout points. Along the way, your leader will pause at some off the beaten track spots to snap some pictures and stretch your legs. Arrive into Franz Josef in the early evening and perhaps head out to one of the town’s cosy pubs for dinner.

Rise and shine – you’re in one of the most beautiful places in the world, and there's so much to discover here. Known for the dazzling Franz Josef glacier and awe-inspiring views of Mt Cook, this is natural beauty on the biggest scale. The region also has a cultural history that’s every bit as captivating as its natural wonders. Only found in the South Island of New Zealand, pounamu (greenstone) is an important part of Maori culture. Today you’ll pay a visit to a local gallery where you’ll have the chance to carve your own pounamu pendant while learning about its spiritual and cultural significance. If you’d like to get up close and personal with Franz Josef Glacier in the afternoon, you can arrange for a helicopter to drop you in for a hike. You may prefer to sit back and unwind in local hot springs, or head out kayaking on an icy blue glacial lake. Your leader will be on hand to help make arrangements.

• Franz Josef - Greenstone Pendant Carving
• Franz Josef - Glacier Lake Kayaking - NZD165
• Franz Josef - Skydiving - from - NZD399
• Franz Josef - Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk - Free
• Franz Josef - Glacier Heli Hike - NZD795
• Franz Josef - Heli Experience with Snow Landing - NZD325

Begin the journey up the west coast – this is the rainiest part of New Zealand, resulting in greenery and lush rainforests like nowhere else in the country. Stop off in the lovely little town of Hokitika where a visit to a pounamu factory will give you the chance to pick up any last souvenirs of gifts. If time allows, there may be the chance to check out the National Kiwi Centre – the nocturnal house here gives visitors the opportunity to see how these delightful birds behave at night. The next stretch of your journey may just be the most magnificent – hop aboard the TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch, widely believed to be one of the top train journeys in the world. Cross through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass and travel past the rushing blue waters of the Waimakariri River and endless native beech forest. Arrive in Christchurch in the evening.

• Greymouth - Tranz Alpine Train Journey
• Hokitika - Mountain Jade Greenstone Factory

Your South Island adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to spend some more time in Christchurch, just get in touch ahead of time and we’d be happy to arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability).

23 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners

Private Vehicle, Train, Ferry

Hotel/Motel (23 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. This trip is run by Haka Tours, an Intrepid Company. You will be travelling with a mixture of both Haka customers and Intrepid customers. Intrepid works closely with Haka Tours to ensure that all our customers enjoy their time in New Zealand.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.