***Your flight must arrive by or before: Arrive at any time.
Your flight must depart no earlier than: 18:00 on Day 29***
Day 1
Auckland
Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting, so feel free to explore the city at your own pace.
Jump straight 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 while taking in the stunning views. Please note: If you choose this extra activity, a pre-night stay in Auckland is highly recommended as the activity may begin early on Day 1.
You'll then have an opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers and learn more about your tour. You may also join the group for a local meal afterward. Don't forget to check the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. Spend your first night connecting with new friends in a new destination. Available only on 18-to-35s tours.
Day 2
Auckland/Raglan
Start your journey along the backroads to Bridal Veil Falls, where you’ll take a short walk through native North Island bush to the stunning waterfall. Continue on to the surf town of Raglan. First, get out on the water for a sea kayaking experience. The group will then head to our accommodation in the heart of Raglan for the next two nights.
Travel to Raglan, a laid-back coastal town famous for its black sand beach and surf breaks. You’ll kayak to a remote area of the harbour for a boat cruise and lunch before heading to our accommodation near the action in Raglan this evening.
Private Vehicle:
Auckland – Raglan (3 hours, 160 km)
Sit back and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Sea Kayaking:
Raglan (1.5 to 2 hours)
Explore Raglan's secluded bays and unique coastline by kayak. Paddle through the inner harbour and get up close to wildlife, fish, and, if you’re lucky, orcas. Discover the pancake rocks on the harbour’s northern side.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3
Raglan
Spend the full day in Raglan, home to a world-famous surf break. There’s no better way to experience local life than by grabbing a surfboard and diving in with an included three-hour lesson. You’ll also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibes while swapping stories with your travel mates.
Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4
Raglan/Rotorua
Start the day with a drive to Rotorua, making a stop at Waitomo to visit the famous Waitomo Caves. Experience the glowworms lighting up the cave ceiling like stars in the night sky. Then, continue to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity. In the evening, enjoy a cultural experience at the Te Puia Village, where you’ll visit a thermal valley.
Private Vehicle:
Raglan – Rotorua (3 hours)
Sit back and enjoy the journey as you take in the changing landscapes.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5
Rotorua/Taupo
Enjoy a free morning in Rotorua. You can visit hot springs, walk past bubbling mud pits and multi-coloured pools, or go white-water rafting. In the afternoon, leave Rotorua and travel to Taupo. On the way, stop to see the impressive Huka Falls, one of the North Island's must-see spots. Upon arrival in Taupo, spend the afternoon sailing on New Zealand's largest lake.
Private Vehicle:
Rotorua – Taupo (1 to 2 hours, 80 km)
Relax and enjoy the journey in a private vehicle.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6
Taupo/Wellington
Today, head to New Zealand's capital, Wellington, at the southern tip of the North Island. Along the way, enjoy ever-changing scenery and share travel stories with the group. Upon arrival, visit the National Museum, Te Papa, home to a fascinating array of Maori artefacts and modern exhibits. The rest of the day is yours to explore, whether you take the cable car to the hills above the city or stroll along the Oriental Parade.
In the evening, head out for an optional night on the town in the central business district.
Private Vehicle:
Taupo – Wellington (5 to 6 hours, 375 km)
Sit back and relax as you travel to the nation’s capital.
Optional Activity:
Te Papa Museum Visit, Wellington
One to two hours
NZD35 per person
Explore this essential museum, which displays both historical Maori artefacts and modern exhibits.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7
Wellington/Abel Tasman National Park
Don’t forget your camera as you board the morning ferry to cross the Cook Strait, taking three and a half hours. Make sure to stand outside and enjoy the views of the Marlborough Sounds. Then, drive through lush native forests and past stunning beaches to Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its golden sands and turquoise waters.
Private Vehicle:
Picton – Abel Tasman National Park (3 hours, 200 km)
Relax and enjoy the journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 8
Abel Tasman National Park
Catch an Aqua Taxi from your accommodation in Marahau to Anchorage. Then, walk back to Marahau at your own pace, making stops along the way at some of the world’s most scenic golden sand beaches.
Enjoy a day in paradise with birdsong ringing in the trees as you wander through the forest, discovering waterfalls, clear pools, and pristine coastlines. Explore the golden beaches and winding waterways at your own pace or relax in the sun.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9
Abel Tasman National Park/Westport
Head to Westport today, stopping at Cape Foulwind to see the local seal colony. Watch these majestic creatures in their natural habitat before continuing to Westport. Once you arrive, enjoy a cold drink and chat with the locals to experience the charm of this coal mining town.
Private Vehicle:
Abel Tasman National Park – Westport (4.5 to 5 hours, 270 km)
Sit back and take in the views.
Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 10:
Westport/Franz Josef
Continue south to Punakaiki, known for its pancake rocks and blowholes. Take time to explore this strange and beautiful place before continuing on to Franz Josef, where you’ll spend the night at a unique wilderness lodge set in the rainforest.
Private Vehicle:
Westport – Franz Josef (5 to 5.5 hours, 285 km)
Relax as you journey to Franz Josef.
Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 11
Franz Josef
Enjoy a full day to explore Franz Josef. Whether you want to go hiking, kayaking, or take a guided ice walk on the glacier, there’s something for everyone. If you'd prefer a more relaxing day, unwind with a spa treatment at the Glacier Hot Pools.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 12
Franz Josef/Queenstown
Drive to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Enjoy the scenic drive, taking in forests, coastlines, and mountain passes along the way. Get ready for an adrenaline-packed few days in Queenstown!
Private Vehicle:
Franz Josef – Queenstown (8 to 9 hours, 420 km)
Sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 13
Queenstown
Let’s put it this way: if you’re someone who loves adventure mixed with adrenaline while exploring one of the most scenic places in the country, then Queenstown is for you!
Gear up for a free day that will leave you breathless. Choose to be a daredevil and get ready for an adrenaline rush with options like jet boating, bungee jumping, or skydiving.
If you have pre-booked the Queenstown Jet Boating, your CEO will let you know when you’ll do the activity, as days are subject to change.
Please note: during the winter months (early/mid June to early/mid October), skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps are highlights for any visitor. Most optional activities are still available – ask your CEO which ones are in season.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 14
Milford Sound Day Trip / Queenstown
Take a breather today as the group heads out to Fiordland National Park. After arriving, soak up the serene vibes on a boat cruise through one of New Zealand’s most iconic spots – Milford Sound. Marvel at the views of one of the wettest places on Earth before returning to Queenstown for the night.
Private Vehicle - Queenstown to Milford Sound (4h 30m)
Sit back and enjoy the views from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 15
Queenstown
Gear up for round two of free time in Queenstown! Whether you’re up for more adrenaline-fueled activities like jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking, or skydiving, or if you prefer to simply take in the breathtaking scenery and vibrant atmosphere, the choice is yours. Explore local restaurants or wind down in a cosy café.
If you’ve pre-booked the Queenstown Jet Boating, your CEO will inform you when the activity takes place, as days are subject to change.
Please note: during the winter months (early/mid June to early/mid October), skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps are a must. Most optional activities are also available, so ask your CEO which ones are in season.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 16
Queenstown to Tekapo
Leave Queenstown and head towards Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Enjoy free time for hiking or visiting the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre. Then, continue on to Lake Tekapo for your next two-night stay.
Private Vehicle - Queenstown to Mount Cook (3h 30m - 4h 26km)
Sit back and take in the views from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle - Mount Cook to Lake Tekapo (1h 15m 93km)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 17
Tekapo
Start your day with a relaxing 21km bike ride along the canals, with stunning mountain views. Afterward, explore Tekapo at your own pace. You could visit the hot springs, relax by Lake Tekapo, or hike to the Mt John Observatory for a look at the incredible Dark Sky Reserve.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 18
Tekapo to Christchurch
Travel to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, and one of the places in New Zealand with the strongest English influences. Spend your free time exploring the city and enjoy a restful night in a converted jailhouse.
Private Vehicle - Lake Tekapo to Christchurch (3h 23m 230km)
Settle in and enjoy the scenic ride.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 19
Christchurch to Kaikoura
Mountains, marine life, and magic – Kaikoura is a special place, and probably the South Island’s best-kept secret. Experience it by going on a whale watching cruise, swimming with seals, or taking a walk along the coast to admire the views. In the afternoon, try bird watching, swimming with dolphins, or splurging on a scenic flight over the peninsula.
Private Vehicle - Christchurch to Kaikoura (2h 30m)
Sit back and take in the sights from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 20
Kaikoura to Wellington
Relive your New Zealand adventure as you head to Picton to catch a ferry back to Wellington. Take in the majestic views as you sail back to the city. Once there, enjoy a meal with your travel crew and get ready for one final night out in New Zealand.
Private Vehicle - Kaikoura to Picton (2h 15m 150km)
Sit back and relax during your ride.
Ferry - Picton to Wellington
Hop on a convenient ferry boat to your next stop.
Day 21
Wellington/Sydney
Today, we say goodbye to New Zealand and fly to Australia. Departing from Wellington, we’ll land in Sydney after about 4 hours in the air. Enjoy an evening at leisure in Australia’s largest city.
A great way to start your time in the city is to head to the harbour’s edge and explore the historic area of ‘The Rocks.’
Optional Activities:
The Rocks Neighbourhood Visit
One to two hours
Free
Set out and explore this historic colonial neighbourhood in the city centre. Bordering Sydney Harbour on one side, it’s home to vibrant cafés, pubs, cobbled alleyways, and charming shops. Snap some photos of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and get a feel for cosmopolitan Sydney.
Day 22
Sydney
Join your CEO as you climb aboard the local ferry to travel from Sydney to Manly Beach. Manly is one of Australia’s most famous beaches—no small feat for such a vast island nation. With world-class surfing, beautiful water, and pine tree-lined beaches, you’ll soon understand why it’s so popular with locals and travellers alike. Take a surf class, relax on the beach, or explore the many shops and restaurants in the area.
Ferry to Manly Beach (Sydney – Manly Beach, 1h 15m)
Board the ferry and travel from Sydney to the famed Manly Beach, just over an hour north of the city.
Day 23
Sydney
There’s so much to do in Sydney. Even though just a few free days won’t allow you to see it all, it’s still worth it! Opt to visit the Sydney Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, check out some renowned museums, or dine at some fantastic restaurants.
Day 24
Sydney
Enjoy one final day in Sydney! Be sure to tick off those last must-see spots in this amazing city. If you need ideas for the day, make sure to ask your CEO—there’s always something to do here.
Day 25
Sydney/Arrawarra
It’s all aboard today as you take the train north to Coffs Harbour. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views. Upon arriving at Coffs Harbour station, the group will travel to Spot X Surf Camp, our base for the next few days.
Train: Sydney – Coffs Harbour (9h)
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views on your northward journey.
Private Vehicle: Coffs Harbour – Arrawarra
Settle in and take in the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 26
Arrawarra
As the sun rises over the ocean, hit the beach for an included surf lesson at Spot X. Located on one of Australia’s most beautiful coastlines, Spot X is entirely dedicated to the surf lifestyle.
Spend time in the sun and have fun with your travel tribe before embarking on a kangaroo trek. Afterward, enjoy a free afternoon to explore your surroundings. Soak in the views of Solitary Islands Marine Park, scramble over rockpools to search for fish traps and sea creatures, or head over to Mullawarra Beach for a picnic. Your only real task today is to have fun!
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 27
Arrawarra/Byron Bay
Adventure through lush national parks, stunning beaches, rolling green hills, and charming towns full of authentic Australian culture as the group drives from Arrawarra to Byron Bay. Enjoy lunch in this surf and arts town, then take a walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse to see the easternmost point of the country. If luck is on your side, you might even spot migrating whales or pods of resident dolphins.
Private Vehicle: Arrawarra – Byron Bay (3h, 210km)
Sit back and enjoy the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 28
Byron Bay
Welcome to Byron Bay—the city of surfing and sunbathing! The day is yours to explore; walk along hidden beaches, play in the surf, or book a massage. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Try skydiving, sea kayaking, or dolphin watching.
At the end of it all, hop on a surfboard for one last ride. As the locals say, “You haven’t surfed until you’ve surfed Byron Bay!”
Day 29
Byron Bay/Brisbane
Travel north with your group to the capital of Queensland, Brisbane. Along the way, stretch your legs at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre. Nestled among eucalyptus trees, the centre offers multi-level views of the resident rescue koalas and interactive educational displays, making it a unique place to learn about koalas and their conservation.
The tour ends upon arrival in Brisbane in the afternoon, but we recommend extending your stay to enjoy what this fun city has to offer. Besides, you probably aren’t ready to go home just yet.
Private Vehicle: Byron Bay – Brisbane (4h, 288km)
Settle in and enjoy the scenic drive to Brisbane.
Meals Included: Breakfast
