Traditional Maori canoe | New Zealand holiday
Traditional Maori canoe | New Zealand holiday
A cultural journey through New Zealand

3 weeks from Otago Peninsula to Waiheke & Hauraki Gulf

Your journey begins in the South Island at the laid-back region of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. You will travel to Tekapo and Mount Cook and slowly make your way to the North Island. Along the way, you will experience a wildlife tour, go on a Maori rock carving tour.

Have a close encounter with dolphins. Go on a guided Maori cultural tour. And visit places that feature prime New Zealand nature. Your journey ends in the Hauraki Gulf and on Waiheke, an island where white-pearled sand beaches meet fruitful vineyards.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Below, you can discover our suggested locations. Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.

Route and Impressions

new-zealand
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Drive 1 hour east of Christchurch to the picturesque Banks Peninsula
Drive 1 hour east of Christchurch to the picturesque Banks Peninsula
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
For 360 degree views of Auckland City, walk to the summit of Mount Eden
For 360 degree views of Auckland City, walk to the summit of Mount Eden
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland City or Devonport
Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland City or Devonport

Otago Peninsula

3 nights

The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.

Tekapo

2 nights

Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.

Banks Peninsula

2 nights

Surrounded by volcanic cliffs, you can choose from a variety of walking tracks to admire the harbour and coastal views. Visit Akaroa, home to historical buildings and the rare Hector’s dolphin.

Kaikoura

2 nights

Kaikoura lies between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views. The nutrient-rich water attracts whales, seals, albatross and dolphins.

Wellington City

2 nights

A vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. Dive into the coffee culture, visit Te Papa Museum and soak up the views from Mount Victoria.

Taupo

3 nights

A thermal wonderland of active volcanoes, trout-filled rivers, alpine tussock and ancient forests. As you make your way around the lake, you will discover an array of different landscapes.

Auckland City

2 nights

The ‘City of Sails’ is surrounded by diverse landscapes. From the rugged coastline at Piha and Bethells Beach to the calm, sheltered and golden sand at Mission Bay.

Bay of Islands

3 nights

A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.

Waiheke Island & Hauraki Gulf

2 nights

A true New Zealand paradise for sailors and adventurers alike. Waiheke Island boasts a subtropical climate, perfect for exploring the white sandy beaches, vineyards, olive groves and art galleries.

Price From

£4,600 Per person
Whats included?
  • 21 nights staying at small-scale accommodations
  • Relaxed travel pace with 2-3 nights at each location
  • Stay at 9 different locations
  • Maori cultural tour
  • Maori rock carving cruise
  • Wildlife tour
  • Fully insured compact SUV
  • Stay with locals, away from the crowds
  • Dolphin encounter
  • Ferry crossing
  • Return economy flights
  • We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests

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At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.