Beyond the Bach: Must-Do Activities for Kiwis this Summer – New Zealand Trip Ideas

1. Witness where the 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' were filmed in Auckland

On this full-day tour, experience filming sites like the hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn.

Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

Visit the Hobbiton Movie set on a full-day tour from Auckland that explores New Zealand's 'Middle-earth,' where 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' came to life on film. Travel through a landscape of lush farms, then take a guided tour of the 12-acre (4.8-ha) Hobbiton Movie Set, from hobbit holes to gardens and the Green Dragon Inn. With free time to shop and explore, this tour includes transport from selected locations in Auckland, and it's limited to 16 travelers to ensure personalized service.... More

9 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$107.52

2. Explore the Waitomo Caves & Rotorua

Discover subterranean stalagmites at the Waitomo Caves and see the Government Gardens, Lake Rotorua, and more on this adventurous tour.

Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

302

The Waitomo Caves and Rotorua rank among New Zealand’s top attractions, offering natural beauty, geothermal features, and native culture in equal measure. Ideal for travelers short on time, this adventurous tour takes in both sites in the same day, with entry fees plus round-trip transport from Auckland included. Discover subterranean stalagmites at the famous Waitomo Caves and hit top Rotorua attractions including the Government Gardens and Lake Rotorua.... More

13 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$220.56

3. Learn about Māori culture in Whangārei

With this tour, step off the tourist path and immerse yourself into Māori land, nature, and food. Later, join a Māori family for a meal and learn more about indigenous life and culture.

Your Kiwi Cultural Connection with Tu Tika Tours

23

A small-group Māori cultural experience offers travelers the opportunity to step off the well-trodden tourist trail and to truly immerse themselves in te ao Māori. With only 8 travelers on the tour, you are guaranteed a personal and intimate experience with your hosts. You will learn about the culture, land, nature, and food of the Maori people and create memories that will last a lifetime. This is not your typical touristy activity where you simply observe from afar – join a whanau Māori (Māori family) for a meal and learn more about indigenous life and culture.... More

3 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$215.03

4. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

See the ceremonial waka and visit the new museum that honours the 28th Māori Battalion. A lot's changed since you visited with school—the grounds got a $10 million facelift in 2015.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

216

Stand on the spot where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840. Find out how this document was forged with admission to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Your day pass is valid for two consecutive days and includes an informative guided tour, an introductory film, a cultural performance, and full access to the historic site.... More

1 to 2 days
Free Cancellation

from

$36.86

5. Take a dive at Goat Island Marine Reserve

Enjoy underwater marine life on this shallow water diving tour for experienced divers in Goat Island Marine Reserve which is teeming with snappers, red mokis, and rays.

Likely to Sell Out

Half day Guided Dive Tour, Goat Island Marine Reserve

25

Experienced divers will love the opportunity to dive at the Goat Island Marine Reserve north of Auckland, which is a healthy and diverse marine environment. Spot a huge range of fish, including snapper, red moki, and different types of rays. Dive safely with a guide, who will point interesting things out to you. The water is shallow so you can stay underwater for longer.... More

4 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$92.16

Price varies by group size

6. Take a nighttime tour of Waipoua Forest

Journey through the sacred forests of the Māori people during this evening forest walk with an indigenous guide.

Waipoua Forest: Twilight Encounter - Maori Cultural Eco Night Tour

156

Experience a mystical journey through the sacred forests of New Zealand’s Maori people during this 4-hour evening forest walk in Waipoua with an indigenous guide. Walk beneath the giant Kauri trees of this forest sanctuary, including the majestic ‘Te Matua Ngahere’ tree, absorbing the site’s spiritual energy as you learn about the site’s significance to Maori beliefs.... More

4 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$66.17

7. Take an extreme boat ride on the Shotover River

Amp up the excitement on this boat tour which reaches high speeds and fishtails into 360-degree spins.

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown

1,755

Take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River during an extreme ride, and make use of transport from Queenstown. Experience adrenaline-fueled fun as the jet boat skims the water’s surface at high speed and fishtails into 360-degree spins. Hold on tight as the captain maneuvers the jet boat over rapids and through narrow canyons during one heart-pounding adventure you won’t soon forget.... More

25 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$100.19

8. Explore Auckland’s wild west coast

Head to the Waitākere Ranges on this tour and enjoy the black-sand beaches (Piha, Te Henga, Bethells Beach, and Muriwai) and trails like Kitekite Falls and Goldie Bush Walkway.

Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland

483

Explore the Waitakere Ranges rain forest and Auckland’s rugged west coast, including Piha Beach, during an afternoon tour with a guide who is knowledgeable about New Zealand flora and fauna. From the Arataki Centre, admire sweeping views from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Learn about Maori history, stroll the beach, and take a nature walk through a lush rain forest while you experience Auckland's largest regional park.... More

5 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$113.66

9. Go sailing on Auckland Harbour

Help sail an America's Cup yacht on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour—or sit back and watch the crew hard at work while on this boat tour.

America's Cup Sailing on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour

168

Join an America’s Cup sailing experience aboard an authentic racing yacht on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. Feel the exhilaration of yachting as you take the helm and participate with the professional crew, or just sit back and soak up the harbor views. No experience necessary.... More

2 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$119.80

10. Go sunset kayaking on Rangitoto Island

Head out on this evening kayak tour and then embark on a summit hike to catch the sunset over Auckland and the Waitakere Ranges.

Likely to Sell Out

Sunset kayak tour to Rangitoto Island

88

Head out to the Auckland landmark of Rangitoto Island on this evening kayaking tour. After crossing the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto, embark on a leisurely walk to the summit to catch the sunset over Auckland and the Waitakere Ranges. You’ll then paddle back in the dark with the help of your guide, taking in the city lights along the way.... More

6 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$150.52

11. Taste wine on Waiheke Island

On this tour, head to Waiheke Island and spend a day drinking local wine and sampling some delicious tastings such as award-winning olive oil, fresh oysters, and artisan cheese.

Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour

265

Indulge in the succulent tastes of Waiheke Island on a 5.5-hour food and wine tour. An informative guide picks you up from your island accommodation or the wharf — if you’ve taken the ferry from Auckland — and takes you to boutique wineries. Taste wine accompanied by locally produced specialties such as award-winning olive oil, fresh-shucked oysters and artisan cheese. Then settle in for a platter lunch at a vineyard restaurant. If you like, stay longer and make your own way back to Auckland at your leisure.... More

5 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$166.96

12. Sail up to Cathedral Cove and its surrounding bays

Skip the walk to Cathedral Cove and choose this tour instead. Arrive by sailboat with bonus stops at Gemstone Bay and Mercury Bay.

Morning Glory Chilled out Sail (3.5hrs)

22

Explore the tranquil beaches and rocky coves of the Coromandel Peninsula on this morning cruise from Whitianga. Set sail around Mercury Bay and Gemstone Bay; admire the dramatic natural landscapes of Cathedral Cove; and dive in to swim and snorkel in the cool Pacific waters. Enjoy a relaxing and leisurely cruise, sailing on-board a wind-powered ship with a limited number of passengers and crew on-board.... More

3 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$73.73

13. Learn how to surf in Raglan

Take a private surfing lesson on Ngarunui Beach in Raglan. Pro tip: Fuel up at Rock-it Kitchen, which is halfway between Raglan town and the beach.

14. Attend a banquet at Hobbiton

Don't just stop at touring filming sites, plan on attending a formal banquet at Hobbiton. Tour the Shire™ at dusk and finish up at The Green Dragon™ Inn for a feast.

Likely to Sell Out

Hobbiton Movie Set Banquet Experience Private Tour From Auckland

2

Experience the magic of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films were made, with this unique small-group tour from Auckland. Arrive in time for a sunset tour of the Shire, enjoy an included drink at the Green Dragon Inn, then feast on a Hobbit-inspired dinner banquet. End the evening with an unforgettable lantern-lit walk through the village of Hobbiton.... More

10 hours

from

$736.64

15. Go black-water rafting in Waitomo Caves

See the glowworms of Waitomo Caves in a new light on this tour and also go on a cave tubing adventure.

Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour

205

Go Waitomo black-water rafting (cave tubing) for a memorable adventure in the Waitomo Caves. Choose a 3-hour Labyrinth experience that takes you floating underground on an inner tube, including a small waterfall jump. Or upgrade to the 5-hour Black Abyss for an exhilarating abseil (rappel) down limestone walls; instruction and equipment included. The resident glowworms, stalactites and stalagmites will amaze you! Finish with a hot shower, soup and bagel.... More

5 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$109.97

16. Go mountain-biking in Rotorua

Rent a mountain bike and hit the trails in Whakarewarewa Forest.

Half-Day Self-Guided Mountain Bike Journey through Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest

120

Located just five minutes from downtown Rotorua, the Whakarewarewa Forest features 100 miles (160 km) of twisting mountain bike trails. Book your bike hire for a half-day ride through this redwood terrain, considered one of the region’s top trail networks. You’ll find a variety of paths for all abilities on this self-guided bike tour.... More

4 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$33.79

17. Ride a jet boat up to Huka Falls

Aboard this boat tour and speed along the mighty Waikato River to the base of Huka Falls.

Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride from Taupo

429

Spin and speed your way to Huka Falls during a thrilling jetboat ride on the Waikato River. Hold on tight as you zip over the crystal-clear waters past rugged cliffs and native bush on New Zealand's longest river. Feel the power of the thundering waterfall up close as it blasts into the turbulent pool.... More

30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$87.59

18. Take an audio tour of Tongariro National Park

This audio tour of Tongariro National Park allows you to learn about Mount Ruapehu, Soda Springs, the Emerald Lakes, and the Totara Forest at your own leisure.

Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour

3

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour. Experience a hiker’s self-guided audio tour of the widely popular Tongariro Crossing. This tour will take you on a 7 hour journey through this cultural and geographical mecca of New Zealand. During this walk you will see huge craters and colourful lakes while being mesmerised by the beautiful and astounding nature of New Zealand.... More

1 to 3 hours

from

$15.29

19. Head on a 3-day tour of the North Island

Get up close and personal with Lake Taupō; witness the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay; marvel at volcanoes; and much more on this multi-day tour.

Private Tour [3 Days]: Huka Falls, Lake Taupō, Napier, Art Deco, Cape Kidnappers

Unearth the geothermal hotspots to enjoy the surreal landscapes and mysterious appeal of active geothermal sites at Wai-O-Tapu thermal wonderland. Discovery of the city’s vibrancy, and beautifully preserved 1930s architecture, is Napier's special point of difference. Offering an ideal base to explore, the welcoming nature of Cape Kidnappers, is an outstanding bird-watching destination, with dramatic coastal views into the Pacific. Walk through the city on an Art deco tour and pass through the spectacular natural landscapes unlike those found anywhere else in the world. Continuing, Lake Taupō is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, rugged mountains, and a variety of wildlife and the thundering Huka falls. Get right up close to explore lake Taupō on an eco-friendly scenic cruise around the Western Bays of the Lake to see the huge Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay.... More

3 days

from

$2,149.72

20. Cycle around the Marlborough Region

Spend the day cycling around the vineyards and countryside, dropping in at wineries and restaurants on the way.

Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour (full day) in the Marlborough Region.

145

Skip the minivans, the strangers, and the set list of cellar doors on this self-guided tour around the Marlborough wine region. Spend the day cycling around the vineyards and countryside outside Blenheim with your group, dropping in at the wineries and restaurants that you want to visit. If you’re having trouble building an itinerary of your own, get customized recommendations based on your tastes and interests.... More

7 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$36.86

21. Hit the craft beer trail in Wellington

Get hip to the hops at some of Welly’s best craft breweries. Sample a wide selection of brews, meet brewers, learn how beer is made, and more on this refreshing tour.

22. Paddle a waka to Abel Tasman National Park

Skip the ferry and head on this tour instead. Paddle in a waka to Toka Ngawhā (Split Apple Rock) in Abel Tasman National Park and explore the coast in a way you haven't before.

23. Cruise Queen Charlotte Sound on a mail boat

Explore the Marlborough Sounds aboard this working mail boat, the only official New Zealand Post rural water delivery service in the region.

Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise

240

Take in a slice of rustic Marlborough living on this mail boat cruise of Tōtaranui / Queen Charlotte Sound. Life in the sounds is remote, and this tour offers the chance to share in the excitement of mail day. Enjoy a free morning in Picton before spending your afternoon cruising past isolated bays, with a unique route on offer each day. Ask your skipper about the history of the Queen Charlotte Sound, and benefit from their help spotting the wildlife that frequent these waterways.... More

4 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$68.81

24. Go whale watching in Kaikoura

Search the waters around Kaikoura by boat and be on the lookout for sperm whales, dolphins, and seals.

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

2,565

Located on the eastern shores of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is famous for the spectacular array of marine wildlife living off its shores—but to see the best of it, you have to take to the waves. On this tour, cruise into Kaikoura’s deep waters by speedy catamaran with running commentary throughout from your guide, and spot dolphins, seals, and sperm whales in their natural habitat.... More

3 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$103.98

25. See the impossibly blue water at Hokitika Gorge

Cross the Instagram-famous Hokitika suspension bridge and explore the surrounding native forest on this day tour.

Explore Hokitika Gorge and Tree Top Walkway

20

Active, nature-loving travelers will enjoy this small-group day tour that includes two of Hokitika’s highlights. Start at the Treetop Walk, where you can follow a 1,476-foot (450-meter) long, 65-foot (20-meter) high steel walkway through the canopy, enjoying the sweeping views. Continue to the dazzling Hokitika Gorge, where you’ll be amazed by the turquoise color of the water. Stretch your legs on a guided walk through the forest.... More

5 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$119.80

26. Trek through Canterbury on horseback

Ride a horse through a high-country sheep farm just outside of Christchurch. This trek takes you on a riverside trail suitable for the whole family.

Rubicon Valley Horse Treks - 2 Hour River Trail Horse Trek

175

Enjoy a guided horseback ride at a high-country sheep farm in Springfield, outside Christchurch. This horse trek takes you on a riverside trail that is suitable for the entire family. Beginning or more experienced riders can walk, trot or canter past the Waimakariri River Canyon with views of the Southern Alps. Set out in the morning or afternoon in a small group of six people per guide.... More

2 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$81.92

27. Fly over Aoraki/Mt. Cook

Head on this aerial tour and soar above Aoraki/Mt. Cook by ski-plane or helicopter (or both) for unparalleled views of New Zealand’s longest glacier and highest mountain.

Likely to Sell Out

45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour

81

Join this tour for the unique opportunity to fly in both a Ski Plane and Helicopter! a 45 minute flight including a Tasman glacier (10-15 minutes) then to switch aircraft for the flight home! Flying through the remarkable Tasman Valley and landing on the snow covered peaks with this scenic option is an unforgettable experience and a WORLD EXCLUSIVE FLIGHT with both the ski plane and helicopter! Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time... More

45 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$294.29

28. Go stargazing in Lake Tekapo

Take stargazing to the extremes at a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve and one of the best places in NZ to observe the night sky.

Dark Sky Indoor Cultural Astronomy Experience

55

Embark on a journey through time and space with this ticket to the Dark Sky Experience at Lake Tekapo. No need to wait until after dark to admire the night sky at this indoor exhibition which draws on Māori astronomy and recent discoveries to tell the story of our skies. This kid-friendly attraction is ideal for families, with multimedia exhibits and hands-on activities offering something to do for everyone.... More

1 hour
Free Cancellation

from

$31.51

29. Climb waterfalls in Mt. Aspiring National Park

Head on a relatively easy trek and take a dip in the hidden pools you find along the way. See Mt. Aspiring National Park and waterfalls from up close.

Level 1 Waterfall Climb from Wanaka (3 hours return)

86

The Twin Falls are two winding waterfalls located in the picturesque Mt Aspiring National Park, a short drive from Wanaka. Most visitors just see them from the road, but you can get up close to them on this half-day climb that’s suitable for beginners and experts alike. See the National Park from a new perspective and take a dip in hidden pools you find during the climb.... More

3 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$125.40

30. Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw

Board the Lady of the Lake for this scenic cruise which departs from Queenstown and heads out multiple times throughout the day.

Likely to Sell Out

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Steamship Cruise from Queenstown

198

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on a vintage Edwardian steamship with tickets for a cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw from Queenstown. Watch the stokers feed the TSS Earnslaw’s coal fires and enjoy views of the mountains. This scenic cruise departs from a central location in Queenstown, with multiple sailings throughout the day.... More

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

from

$60.82

31. Visit Australasia's only castle

Marvel at the grand rooms and manicured gardens at Larnach Castle in Dunedin and avoid the lines with this ticket.

Skip the Line: Larnach Castle & Gardens Admission Ticket

182

Visit New Zealand’s only castle with admission to Larnach Castle & Gardens, where you’ll find beautiful antiques, manicured gardens, and gorgeous views across the Otago Peninsula. Learn the story of the castle’s founding family through recorded commentary on a personal headset, and pause to explore a collection of New Zealand native plants before entering the castle. Pre-booking your tickets to Larnach Castle & Gardens ensures a smooth visit, with the flexibility to see the castle and grounds at your own pace.... More

2 to 4 hours

from

$27.65

32. Kayak on Milford Sound

Get closer to the water with this sea-kayaking trip on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Kayak Tour

117

This Milford Sound cruise in UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park stops at the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory, accessible only by boat. Your morning cruise on a smaller boat travels outside of peak hours, offering prime viewing and more time on the water than other tours. Hear informative commentary from our passionate skippers on board, and enjoy a provided picnic lunch. Upgrade to include a kayak excursion and paddle Harrison Cove in a small-group limited to 8 people.... More

2 hours
Free Cancellation

from

$181.24

33. Hike Bluff Knoll

Hike the highest peak in the southwest on this tour. Standing over 3000 feet (1000 meters) above sea level, the hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding.

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