17 Day New Zealand Kaka Small Group Tour

Starting From NZD $10,390
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Explore roads less travelled on this special small group New Zealand tour and experience country hospitality and nature in the wild. In the North Island we discover authentic Maori culture around Rotorua and visit Tongariro National Park, in the South Island we tour the Mount Cook region and visit famous Milford Sound by land, sea and air. Meet the locals over private lunches at Lake Tarawera, a Marlborough vineyard and a mid-Canterbury farmhouse.

Tour Highlights

  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • Milford Sound Scenic Flight
  • Abel Tasman Cruise & Guided Walk
  • Marlborough Winery Lunch
  • Private Charter Yacht on Lake Rotoiti
  • Private hosted lunches in Canterbury & Lake Tarawera
  • Interislander Ferry
  • Guided tours at Wai-o-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland
  • A working Kiwifruit orchard

Tour Itinerary

(B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Specialty Dinner

1:
Auckland - Rotorua
Day 1:
Auckland - Rotorua
Today is an exciting start to your New Zealand adventure, after meeting your guide and group in the Auckland CBD you'll head away South to Rotorua via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Your first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past. Near Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a private sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat - a memorable end to an awesome day.
Novotel Lakeside Rotorua
Right in the heart of Rotorua, close to restaurants and shopping areas.
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2:
Rotorua tours and activities (B, L)
Day 2:
Rotorua tours and activities (B, L)
You’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand. You'll head to the famous Lake Tarawera for a hosted lunch with David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories.
Novotel Lakeside Rotorua
Right in the heart of Rotorua, close to restaurants and shopping areas.
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3:
Rotorua - Tongariro National Park (B)
Day 3:
Rotorua - Tongariro National Park (B)
No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable. Continue on your adventure to "Great Lake" Taupo and stroll to view the famous Huka Falls. You’ll stop around the lake on your way to Tongariro National Park. On arrival there are stunning views of the mountains - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. Here you can choose to walk to the Taranaki Falls, a classic North Island walking trail with gentle terrain, great views and unique native plants, or take an optional skyline gondola to Knoll Ridge Cafe at the top of Mt Ruapehu where the views are breathtaking.
Powderhorn Chateau Ohakune or Aspen Court Taihape
The Powderhorn Chateau is located in Ohakune and Aspen Court is located in Taihape, both are a great base close to Tongariro National Park.
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4:
Tongariro National Park - Wellington (B)
Day 4:
Tongariro National Park - Wellington (B)
After breakfast you leave the volcanic plateau behind and make your way down the centre of the island to the capital city Wellington, stopping at points of interest along the way. You stay two nights in Wellington as you can’t miss "the coolest little capital in the world". You’ll get to check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. You’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes.
The Bolton Hotel Wellington
Set in the heart of Wellington city and close to the Beehive and Parliament Buildings.
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5:
Wellington (B)
Day 5:
Wellington (B)
The day is yours to enjoy, you are at the heart of the action at The Bolton Hotel a short walk to the waterfront and Te Papa National Museum. Wellington is the food lovers' capital of New Zealand with a huge selection of cafes and boutique breweries to choose from. Ask your MoaTrek Kiwi guide his favourites. Wellington is also the spiritual home of "The Lord of Rings" where you can visit Weta Workshop and see how all the props are made.
The Bolton Hotel Wellington
Set in the heart of Wellington city and close to the Beehive and Parliament Buildings.
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6:
Wellington - Cook Strait Crossing - Picton - Blenheim - Nelson (B, L)
Day 6:
Wellington - Cook Strait Crossing - Picton - Blenheim - Nelson (B, L)
Cruise on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant your feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Your first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch with a local right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region. From wine country, head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way, cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights.
Trailways Hotel Nelson
A beautiful setting, alongside the river and in the central city.
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7:
Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park (B, L)
Day 7:
Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park (B, L)
Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to walk a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. After your magical day out, return to Nelson for another night.
Trailways Hotel Nelson
A beautiful setting, alongside the river and in the central city.
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8:
Nelson - Kaikoura (B)
Day 8:
Nelson - Kaikoura (B)
Heading towards Kaikoura the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular. Your afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline. There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
The White Morph
Right on the waterfront parade in Kaikoura and only a 10 minute walk to the shops and cafes of the main street.
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9:
Kaikoura - Akaunui Homestead - Aoraki / Mt Cook (B, L)
Day 9:
Kaikoura - Akaunui Homestead - Aoraki / Mt Cook (B, L)
Leaving the coast, drive over the Hunderlee Hills to the Canterbury Plains. You'll stop for a special lunch at Akaunui, a 100-year-old homestead surrounded by large gardens and dine on wonderful fresh produce prepared by your warm hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. Get a great insight into life on a working sheep and dairy farm. After lunch, continue through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. You’ll make plenty of stops en route, you can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of glacier fed Lake Pukaki.
The Hermitage Hotel
A unique and breathtaking location right in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
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10:
Aoraki/Mt Cook - Queenstown (B)
Day 10:
Aoraki/Mt Cook - Queenstown (B)
Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village. Kea Point is our favourite, a gentle undulating track with incredible close up views of the valley and the mountain itself. Alternatively take a boat cruise on a glacier lake, scenic flight or heli-hike on the Tasman glacier! After lunch we head over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand and our home for three nights.
Scenic Suites Queenstown
Located only a 5 minute downhill walk from the heart of Queenstown.
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11:
Queenstown - Milford Sound (B)
Day 11:
Queenstown - Milford Sound (B)
Today is all about the one and only Milford Sound. From Queenstown, follow the shores of the great southern lakes Wakatipu and Te Anau before heading into the heart of Fiordland National Park on the spectacular Milford Road. On arrival at Milford cruise by launch out onto the sound dominated by iconic Mitre Peak and home to birdlife, seal colonies and pods of dolphins. A magical flight over the Southern Alps returns you to Queenstown at the end of a fantastic day of touring by land, sea and air.
Scenic Suites Queenstown
Located only a 5 minute downhill walk from the heart of Queenstown.
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12:
Queenstown Activities & Day Tours (B)
Day 12:
Queenstown Activities & Day Tours (B)
Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer. Some recommendations are: A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in The Lord of the Rings scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River. Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. Take your pick from literally hundreds of activities and tours on offer in Queenstown Enjoy dinner at one of the many award winning restaurants on the lakefront. Hotel Scenic Suites Queenstown
Scenic Suites Queenstown
Located only a 5 minute downhill walk from the heart of Queenstown.
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13:
Queenstown - Arrowtown - Wanaka (B)
Day 13:
Queenstown - Arrowtown - Wanaka (B)
Your day starts with a short hop to leafy Arrowtown, where gold mining history comes alive beside the Arrow River. Then, head into tussock country for the climb up the Crown Range and your last views of the beautiful Wakatipu basin. Call into picture perfect Cardrona Hotel, its history dates back to the colonial era, then continue on to Wanaka. Your hotel this evening is right on the lake edge, you’ve got plenty of time after lunch to discover this lovely lakeside town for yourself. Bike the waterfront trail, get out on the lake in a kayak or head next door to Rippon Vineyard for wine tasting with a view!
Edgewater Resort Wanaka
Set in parklike grounds right on the edge of Lake Wanaka.
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14:
Wanaka - Haast Pass - Franz Josef Glacier (B)
Day 14:
Wanaka - Haast Pass - Franz Josef Glacier (B)
Today is a quintessential kiwi day, where else in the world can you visit the seaside, a rainforest and a glacier all in the same day? In New Zealand, no worries! We start off following the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before reaching the pristine mountain and river scenery of the Mount Aspiring National Park. Then it’s up and over the Haast Pass through beech forests, past cascading waterfalls and clear blue pools before following the Haast River out to the sea. There’s plenty of time for short walks and photo stops on the way. Head north through the lush, prehistoric Gondwanaland forest of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, stopping at Ship Creek to stroll the beach, keep your eye out for dolphins feeding in the shallows. Get your camera ready for Lake Matheson’s famous reflections and your first glimpse of Fox Glacier descending from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Home for the night is Franz Josef.
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Located in the heart of Franz Josef village and close to Franz Josef Glacier.
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15:
Franz Josef Glacier - Hokitika - Punakaiki (B)
Day 15:
Franz Josef Glacier - Hokitika - Punakaiki (B)
Your morning is free to discover Glacier Country and Westland, right in the heart of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Valley lookout take a guided wildlife cruise out on Okarito lagoon in search of the Kotuku - White Heron. Then head north through countryside dotted with little lakes and boulder strewn rivers. Hokitika is the Pounamu (greenstone) capital of the country and you’ll have the chance to visit the carvers as well as glass blowing, wood and copper artisans. Arrive at your home for two nights in Punakaiki, right on the beach in the perfect spot to enjoy your last few sunsets in New Zealand.
Punakaiki Resort
Situated in Paparoa National Park just a short walk from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
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16:
Day 16:
Punakaiki and Paparoa National Park (B)
The surrounding Paparoa National Park is very different to any other area on the trip, towering limestone cliffs and karst rock formations with beautiful river valleys draped in subtropical forest. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. There are also some great optional activities here, a favourite is the Glowworm Caves at Charleston but there are also exceptional walking tracks including the Truman track to an isolated beach and the coastal walkway at Cape Foulwind. Hotel Punakaiki Resort
Punakaiki Resort
Situated in Paparoa National Park just a short walk from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
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17:
Punakaiki - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B)
Day 17:
Punakaiki - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B)
Wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, cross New Zealand’s main divide, traverse the stunning Canterbury High Country and cross the plains into the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch. Highlights include the Otira Viaduct, a spectacular cantilevered road through towering mountains to Arthur’s Pass National Park one of the best places in the country to see the hilarious antics of our alpine parrot, the Kea. Stretch your legs in the beech forests at Arthur’s Pass National Park and again at the massive limestone rocks at Castle Hill before you reach Christchurch in the late afternoon. Say your goodbyes with drop offs at Christchurch Airport or your city accommodation.

Inclusions

Attractions Visited

  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • Abel Tasman Guided Walk
  • Lake Rotoiti Sailing
  • Milford Sound Flight
  • Interislander Ferry
  • Abel Tasman Cruise
  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Area
  • Marlborough Winery

Coach Features

  • All transport by comfortable, air conditioned coach (maximum 18 travellers)
  • There are no on-board restrooms however frequent bathroom stops are made

Experiences Included

  • Services of your knowledgeable MoaTrek Kiwi guide
  • Franz Josef Glacier
  • Fiordland National Park
  • Rotorua Geothermal Area
  • Kaikoura Coastline
  • Pancake Rocks
  • Lake Tekapo
  • Arthur’s Pass National Park
  • Mt Aspiring National Park
  • Mt Cook National Park
  • Lakes Rotoiti and Tarawera

Meals Included

  • Breakfasts every morning
  • A hosted lunch with the Walmsley family in Lake Tarawera
  • Lunch at tastings at a Marlborough winery
  • Included picnic lunch on your Abel Tasman day trip
  • A hosted Canterbury garden lunch with our old friends Di & Ian at Akaunui Homestead

Visited Locations

  • Auckland
    Auckland, or Tāmaki Makaurau in Maori, is New Zealand’s largest city. It is based around 2 large and picturesque harbours. 'The City of Sails' is known as such because of the many yachts often seen on those harbours.
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  • Rotorua
    Rotorua is an inland city that is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori culture experiences, 18 lakes, and three major rivers in a beautiful natural environment.
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  • Tongariro National Park
    Tongariro National Park is situated in the middle of the North Island, just south of Lake Taupō. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers almost 80,000 hectares of awe-inspiring landscapes.
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  • Wellington
    Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and the location of our parliament. Located at the bottom of the North Island it sits on the Cook Straight, which divides the North and South Islands.  Strong winds through the Cook Strait give it the nickname "Windy Wellington".
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  • Picton
    Right in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds you will find Picton. This picturesque port town is home to great cafés, restaurants, galleries and specialty shops. It is the heart of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
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  • Blenheim
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  • Nelson
    Nelson is the main centre of the Tasman region. This is an extraordinary, vibrant region where art and businesses thrive together among a stunning natural landscape.
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  • Abel Tasman National Park
    Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's smallest national park. But it's one of the most easily accessible and is unmatched for beautiful coastal settings and beaches.
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  • Kaikoura
    There are few places on earth like Kaikōura. A small coastal village, with a relaxed beachside vibe, it has some stunning views of both mountains and sea. And it offers to enjoy the bounty of the sea whether eating local kai moana or encountering local sale sea life off the coast.
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  • Aoraki Mount Cook
    Aoraki / Mount Cook, standing at 3,724 metres, is the highest mountain in New Zealand. It is  located within Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
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  • Queenstown
    Queenstown is a stunning resort town, renowned for its beauty and wealth of adventure activities, it sits on the shores of the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps mountains, Queenstown is also a base for exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns.
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  • Milford Sound
    Famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the "eighth wonder of the world", Milford Sound is a stunning fiord in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island.
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  • Arrowtown
    Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, a short 15min drive from Queenstown. One of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, Arrowtown sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River.
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  • Wanaka
    Wanaka is a lively resort town surrounded by some stunning alpine scenery. It offers a picture-perfect location and easy access to the outdoors. The town has the buzz of a genuine alpine town and is the ultimate hub for outdoor adventures. 
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  • Haast Pass
    The drive north from Wanaka to the West Coast passes through the spectacular scenery of Haast Pass. Makarora, at the northern tip of Lake Wanaka, is a launching point for several multi-day walks in Mount Aspiring National Park. It also marks the start of the drive over the pass.
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  • Franz Josef
    Franz Josef is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village. The small but lively Franz Josef Waiau village is surrounded by lush rainforest with the high snow-capped Alps rising above it.
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  • Hokitika
    Hokitika is a historic town in the West Coast region of NZ's South Island. Close to the mouth of the Hokitika River, this character-filled town is 40 kilometres south of Greymouth.H
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  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
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  • Arthur’s Pass
    A small alpine village of Arthur's Pass is located between Canterbury and the West Coast of the South Island. Climbing to more than 900 metres through Arthur's Pass National Park, it is the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps.
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  • Christchurch
    Christchurch is an fascinating city to explore. It was once a historic garden city. Since the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes it has turned into a fascinating city of regeneration and growth.
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Attractions

  • Milford Sound Scenic Flight
  • Guided tour at Wai-o-Tapu geothermal wonderland
  • A working Kiwifruit Orchard visit
  • Private hosted lunches in Canterbury and Lake Tarawera
  • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch
    Cruise Milford Sound, the most well-known and accessible of all the fiords in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage Area. Its 16 kilometre (14 nautical miles) length is lined by sheer rock faces that soar 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) or more from the water. 
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  • Abel Tasman Guided Walk & Cruise
    Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's smallest national park. But it is one of the most easily accessible and beautiful coastal paradise settings. And you'll see all the highlights along the coast on board this cruise.
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  • Wine Tasting Marlborough Wineries
    With more than 30 cellar doors offering tastings, the best way to explore the region's wine trail is on a Marlborough wine tour.  Sample some of Marlborough’s stunning wines right next to the vines the grapes were grown on. And learn about the distinctive flavours and arts of viticulture and winemaking that go into each glass.
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  • Private Cruise on Lake Rotoiti on “Tiua”
    Experience an unforgettable day exploring the endless bays, caves and coves of Lake Rotoiti in Rotorua, under sail on the beautiful sailing catamaran ‘Tiua’. Fish for rainbow trout, soak in the lake edge thermal pools and explore some of the locals' favourite places. Your crew will entertain you with local Maori legends, fine wine and great food as you cruise.
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  • Interislander Cook Strait Ferry
    Considered one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world, The Interislander is one of The Great Journeys of New Zealand. It is New Zealand's original Cook Strait ferry, sailing between Wellington and Picton several times a day connecting the North & South Islands' road and rail networks.
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“We had a wonderful holiday and the itinerary was excellent for first-time visitors to New Zealand. The range of organised activities worked very well especially as they included some that we would not of known about or been able to do had we been travelling alone. The optional activities were also good as they made it possible to tailor the tour to suit individual interests.”
Geoff & Julie (UK) – January, 2020

“MoaTrek is an excellent way to see New Zealand from East to West on both North island and South. The small group experience made our vacation more enjoyable. Our guide Andrew was very knowledgeable and was fun to be with. High marks. What an amazing country. A bucket list trip for any nature lover.”
Joel & Leah (USA) – January, 2020

“Moatrek provides its customers with the opportunity to experience the “real” New Zealand. Travelling around in the small bus with a small group enabled us to feel less of a tourist than would have been the case in a big 40+ passenger coach. The small group made it possible to eat in interesting restaurants which would not have been possible with a larger group.”
Peter (Canada) – March, 2019

 

Available Dates

Dates Price per person
On Request
06 Oct 2025 - 22 Oct 2025 Guaranteed Departure $11,490.00$13,790.00
On Request
10 Nov 2025 - 26 Nov 2025 Guaranteed Departure $11,490.00$13,790.00
On Request
06 Dec 2025 - 22 Dec 2025 Guaranteed Departure $11,490.00$13,790.00
On Request
05 Jan 2026 - 21 Jan 2026 Guaranteed Departure $11,490.00$13,790.00
On Request
16 Apr 2026 - 02 May 2026 Guaranteed Departure $11,490.00$13,790.00
17 Day New Zealand Kaka Small Group Tour
Days
17
Price from
NZD $10,390 per person twin share