Sheepdog
Start: Auckland
Finish: Christchurch
Starting in Auckland, the Sheepdog winds its way down the North Island, cruises down the West Coast of the South Island, and then cuts back up to Christchurch.
What's included
- start Auckland, Finish Christchurch
- Minimum of 16 days of travel* - start Auckland, finish Christchurch
- 1x Cook Strait ferry ticket (North to South Island) - if pass was purchased from 1 October 2023
- Flexible, easy, stress-free travel with like-minded travellers
- Legendary local Driver Guides
The Extra Bits
- Change travel dates as many times as you like with no fees
- Pre-Book and pay for accommodation online via the Trip Planner (by 7am 2 days before any overnight stop)
- Pre-Book and pay for activities online via the Trip Planner
- Limited departures available in June, July & August (winter schedule)
- *The minimum time is the shortest amount of time you can complete this pass by travelling our standard itinerary and not hopping off the bus. Please note this minimum time can change slightly depending on the season.
To view our current bus timetables, please click here
NZ $1399
Auckland to Hot Water Beach
Say goodbye to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) as you embark on a journey south-east to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. This breathtaking coastal region offers an array of experiences, including the option to kayak along its stunning shores to the world-famous Cathedral Cove, and the chance to visit Hot Water Beach; a unique beach where you can create your own personal spa pool by digging a hole in the sand, benefiting from the naturally heated water if timed right. Indulge in a Kiwi classic and grab some fish and chips for dinner and chill out with your new friends, or if you prefer a more relaxing evening, opt for a quiet night in to recharge your energy for the upcoming adventure-packed days (you're going to need it!).
Accommodation
- Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Hot Water Beach (free)
- Cathedral Cove Kayaking (optional extra)
Hot Water Beach to Waitomo
Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind we’ll venture into the enchanting Karangahake Gorge nestled among the Kaimai Ranges, for a hike amongst the walkways and old mining tunnels. Next, we’ll be heading over to Waitomo (‘wai’ meaning water, ‘tomo’ meaning hole) to visit the magical glow-worm caves. World-famous for their abundance of glow worms, extensive underground river system and stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, a trip to the caves is a trip to another world. However, Waitomo is more than caves and glowworms; it's a cultural hub rich in Māori history, myths and legends. Some of the cave guides are descendants of Chief Tāne Tinorau, the original explorer of the caves. Upon our arrival, we'll stop for a refreshing walk through the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve where you can see the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel, native forest and small caves. For those feeling adventurous, this afternoon you will have the opportunity to experience a Black Water Rafting trip (optional extra). Brave the underground rapids as you raft in tubes, leap off waterfalls, and float beneath a dazzling sky of glow worms.
Accommodation
- Waitomo Homestead Cabins (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Karangahake Gorge Walk (free)
- Ruakuri Scenic Walk (free)
- Waitomo Glowworm cave tour (optional extra)
- Black Water Rafting - Labyrinth (optional extra)
- Ruakuri Cave Tour (optional extra)
Waitomo to Rotorua
It's time to bid farewell to the glowing little critters. For those who wish to live out their Lord of the Rings fantasies, we will stop off at the enchanting village of Hobbiton, where the magic of the movies comes to life (optional extra). Next, we'll roll on to Rotorua, a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. You won’t get bored here; plenty of optional activities keep you busy. Take your pick from exhilarating White Water Rafting, thrilling experiences like Zip Lining across the top of the canopy, or exploring the area’s unique geothermal activity and natural hot springs. You can embrace our history and culture this evening with a 3-hour experience at the Mitai Māori Village (optional extra). Witness captivating stories unfold, be enchanted by performers, and satisfy your hunger with a traditional Māori feast.
Accommodation
- Rock Solid Backpackers (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Ruakuri Bushwalk (free)
- Hobbiton (optional extra)
- White Water Rafting (optional extra)
- Mitai Māori Village evening experience (optional extra)
- Zip Lining (optional extra)
Rotorua to Taupo
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.
Accommodation
- Based By The Lake (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Te Puia Geothermal wonderland (optional extra)
- Huka Falls (free)
- Skydive Taupo (optional extra)
- Taupo Sailing Adventure (optional extra)
- Tongariro Crossing hike (optional extra)
Taupo free day
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.
Accommodation
- Based By The Lake (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Tongariro Crossing shuttle bus (optional extra) Not available in winter (May-Oct)
- Skydive Taupo (optional extra)
Taupo to Wellington
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.
Accommodation
- Haka House or Nomads Backpackers (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Tongariro National Park
- Mount Victoria lookout (free)
- Te Papa Museum
- Cuba street nightlife (free)
Wellington to Abel Tasman
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!
Accommodation
- Kaiteri Lodge (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Interislander ferry (included)
- Kahu Kayaks (optional extra)
- Abel Tasman skydive (optional extra)
Abel Tasman to Westport
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.
Accommodation
- Bazils Hostel and Surf School (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Nelson Lakes (free)
- Surfing (optional extra)
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding (optional extra)
Westport to Lake Mahinapua - Seasonal location*
*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.
Accommodation
- Lake Mahinapua Hotel (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Cape Foulwind Seal Colony walk (free)
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks (free)
Lake Mahinapua to Franz Josef
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.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Included Experiences
- Franz Josef Glacier walk (free)
- Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike (optional extra)
- Franz Josef Wilderness Kayak tour (optional extra)
- Franz Josef skydive (optional extra)
Franz Josef (Free Day)
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.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Franz Josef Glacier walk (free)
- Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike (optional extra)
- Franz Josef Wilderness Kayak tour (optional extra)
- Franz Josef skydive (optional extra)
Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka
We start out early in order to catch the perfect mirror reflection of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps on Lake Matheson. We then cruise down the last stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way. Then it’s into Mount Aspiring National Park, arriving in the awe-inspiring destination of Wanaka. After a stroll around Lake Wanaka to check out the famous Wanaka Tree, we arrive in Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand! Head down to the spectacular waterfront before it’s out on the town exploring Queenstown’s infamous nightlife with all the crew!
Optional Stop: Overnight in Wanaka
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- That Wanaka Tree (free)
- Lake Matheson Lake Walk (free)
- Kiwi Crawl (optional extra)
Queenstown (Free day)
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.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Milford Explorer (included in some passes)
- Shotover Jet (optional extra)
- Nevis Bungy (optional extra)
- Canyon Swing (optional extra)
Queenstown to Lake Tekapo
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.
Accommodation
- Lakefront Lodge Tekapo (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Lake Pukaki (free)
- Church of the Good Shepherd (free)
- Mount John walk (free)
Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand. 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.
Accommodation
- Hotel Give (not included - book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens (Free)
- Quake City
- International Antarctic Centre
