Funky Chicken

Conveniently located in the centre of the North Island, Rotorua offers some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions and experiences. With geothermal wonders, refreshing spa offerings, pristine lakes, spectacular forests, fascinating Māori culture and an abundance of adventure activities. Today is the perfect day to get out and explore all of what it has to offer. Ride the rapids of the Kaituna river, take a piece of New Zealand home with you on a Mountain Jade Highlights tour or relax and unwind with the Wai Ariki restorative journey.  

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If you haven't had a chance yet to explore the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, we will check it out this morning before heading onto Lake Taupō, taking a walk to the pounding Huka Falls (included) first. In Taupō there is lots to do, just tell us what you’re in the mood for and we’ll get you there. The lake itself (actually an extinct volcano crater) is a sight to behold from the shoreline, but the more adventurous might want to take the opportunity to experience optional activities such as sailing across the lake on a yacht to the Māori rock carvings, or even get a birds-eye view by skydiving above it. 

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From 02 May 2025 (inclusive), this extra day in Taupo will be replaced by an extra day in Rotorua. 

Taupō’s central location means it’s a hop, skip, and a jump away from other world-class activities which we give you the option to experience on this free day. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (extra activity); a dramatic landscape of stunning contrasts created by extinguished lava flows and emerald lakes, or chill out by the Lake and get some much-needed r&r.

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We head south around the “great lake” towards the Tongariro National Park for a two-hour walk through native bush and waterfalls. In the afternoon we travel to New Zealand's capital city Wellington. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion, and nightlife. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (free), or get amongst the thriving craft beer scene and Wellington nightlife.

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We take the Interislander ferry across to the South Island through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. Travel through vineyards to Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city, then on to Kaiteriteri at the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Kaiteriteri is a great spot to begin an adventure (on foot, by kayak, or by water taxi) into Abel Tasman National Park, or see it all from above by jumping out of a plane!

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Spend the morning kayaking out to Split Apple Rock and along the golden bays near Kaiteriteri, looking out for the local marine wildlife; or catch a water taxi to one of the bays in the Abel Tasman National Park to go for a morning stroll in the native New Zealand forest. This afternoon we stop at the iconic Nelson Lakes, so you can get your legendary wharf jumping shot before hitting surf town Westport.

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*Lake Mahinapua is a seasonal location from 10 October 2024 - 8 May 2025. When out of season, the bus will travel directly from Westport to Franz Josef.

Today, we start our journey down spectacular State Highway 6, which stretches 435 kilometres along the rugged Tasman shoreline. The road winds through diverse landscapes that never cease to amaze. Highlights today include the Cape Foulwind seal colony walk, rugged beaches, and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Tonight, you will stay at the historic Mahinapua Hotel, across the road from Lake Mahinapua and a short wander away from a rugged west coast beach. This location is unique to Kiwi Experience and allows you to bond with your bus mates over a meal.

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This morning it’s a short drive to Franz Josef. Franz Josef is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage area. The region includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mount Aspiring, the Fiordland National Parks, and surrounding conservation lands. We factor in a free day in Franz Josef so that you can get out there and experience what Franz Josef has to offer. It’s a wicked spot and whatever you get out and do, you will be blown away by the views of the glacier and Alps.

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Included Experiences

Today you have a free day in Franz Josef where you have the opportunity to experience the famous Franz Josef Glacier on a Heli Hike tour, or on foot (for free) by hitting up the many walking trails in the area. Explore the Franz Josef wilderness further on a kayak tour amidst the serene waters and breathtaking scenery of Lake Mapourika.

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Trade glaciers for lakes and rugged coastlines for alpine vistas as we journey from Franz Josef to Wanaka! We'll rumble south, conquering the mighty Haast Pass. We hug the shores of lakes, where the mountains reflect in the crystal-clear waters, before rolling into the lake side town of Wanaka. Get snap-happy at the iconic 'That Wanaka Tree,' stroll the vibrant lakefront, and dive into Wanaka's buzzing atmosphere. Feel like hopping off the bus and visiting in the winter months? Jump onto the ski fields and practice your best pizza in a pair of skis or glide down the mountains on a snowboard. The summer months in Wanaka boast a range of options including mountain biking, mountain carting or there are a range of day hikes in the area sure to impress. Whatever your time in Wanaka may present, the town has your vibe. Get ready for a blast of pure Kiwi scenery.

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Wake up to Wanaka's magic and choose your own adventure! Fancy a hike but also feel like heading to Queenstown today? Wake up early and tackle Roy's Peak for those iconic views. Early bird catches the worm right? Head back to Wanaka and grab a spot on the bus before roll on to Queenstown! We'll hug the shores of Lake Hawea, then wind through the dramatic Crown Range, snapping epic mountain panoramas.

Arriving into Queenstown we will stop at the famous Kawarau Bridge where you can catch adrenaline thrills in action. The adventure is just getting started, Queenstown explodes with options! Get ready for adrenaline-pumping activities, vibrant nightlife, and scenery that'll blow your mind. Queenstown's got everything from bungy jumping and jet boating to scenic gondola rides and lakeside strolls.

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Queenstown is one of the most amazing places on Earth. No matter what time of the year it is rated as one of our passenger’s favourite spots, and you'll get at least three nights here to explore everything it has to offer! Make the most of the beautiful lake and surrounding walks, or get into a whole range of adrenalin-pumping activities. If there was one activity that you couldn’t miss it would be the day trip to Milford Sound, commonly referred to as The Eighth Wonder of the World.

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Didn't get to see and do everything you wanted in Queenstown yesterday? Today offers just the chance to get Queenstown wrapped up before we hit the road to the next adventure. Got FOMO off the crew that headed out to Milford Sound yesterday? Not to worry, today is a chance to get it done. Or maybe yesterday you did it all and today you want to rest, recoup and discover the hidden gems of the town. Whatever today has in store, make the most of it! 

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We head out of Queenstown, through the Lindis Pass, so get your cameras ready because this is ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. After stopping to admire Mt Cook at Lake Pukaki, we travel to Lake Tekapo with its amazing location by snow-capped alps and clear starry skies. Lake Tekapo has something for everyone - relaxing at the lakeside and taking in the untouched view, soaking in the hot springs, discovering one of the many scenic walkways or checking out the mind-boggling stars in what is the world’s largest dark sky reserve.

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Please note, on selected Saturdays from 3rd May to October 7th 2025 this route will be an express service from Lake Tekapo to Kaikoura and will only pass through Christchurch to drop off and pick up guests. If you choose to hop off the bus in Christchurch, the amount of days to wait for the next bus will be extended.

The selected Saturdays are as follows: 

03^rd, 10^th, 17^th, 24^th, 31^st May 2025 

07^th, 14^th, 21^st, 28^th June 2025 

05^th, 12^th, 19^th, 26^th July 2025 

02^nd, 09^th, 16^th, 23^rd, 30^th August 2025 

06^th, 13^th, 20^th, 27^th September 2025 

04^th, 07^th October 2025 

We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand before we continue on to Kaikoura where our day comes to an end. Hopping off the bus in Christchurch? Witness a city rebuilding and flourishing in the wake of the 2011 earthquakes, explore the street art, see the blooming botanical gardens, and learn about the history of a city that’s experienced so much in recent times. Otherwise, stay on and lets head to Kaikoura. 

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Departing Christchurch, we arrive in Kaikoura in time for you to check out what it's most famous for – whale watching or swimming with the dolphins. Spend the evening chilling on the beach or sampling some of the best seafood New Zealand offers for your dinner. The name Kaikoura means to eat crayfish (“kai” means to eat, “koura” means crayfish).

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We head north and take in the last of the dramatic Kaikoura coastline. It’s a spectacular drive and we stop for a close look at the seals that lay about on the rocks. We make our way to the Picton ferry terminal in time to catch the afternoon sailing to the North Island. Say farewell to the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu) and we’re on our way! The ferry ride takes a few hours so chill out and enjoy the view of the amazing Marlborough Sounds before arriving into the capital city in the evening. 

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Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your own adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further! The bus will stop for pick-ups and drop-offs only.

Let's head north! We'll depart from Wellington, leaving the wind behind as we head towards the gumboot capital, Taihape. Next, we'll traverse the Central Plateau, home to the awe-inspiring Tongariro National Park.

Calling all lake lovers! Our first stop en route to Auckland is Taupō, hop-off the bus and soak in the beauty of New Zealand's largest freshwater lake. The bus will then continue to Rotorua hop off the bus and explore the geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture in Rotorua. Or keep rolling with us through the scenic countryside towards Auckland, the vibrant "City of Sails."

Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further!

Accommodation in Taupo and Rotorua is at your own arrangement, and can not be booked with Kiwi Experience 

Accommodation