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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation
Traditional Maori canoe | New Zealand holiday
Traditional Maori canoe | New Zealand holiday
A cultural journey through New Zealand

3 weeks from Otago Peninsula to Bay of Islands

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 can experience a wildlife tour, go on a Maori rock carving tour or swim with dolphins.

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

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

3 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

3 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.

Price guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 21 nights in comfortable holiday houses, farm stays & cottages
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 22 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Fully equipped kitchen at your Matakana accommodation | New Zealand holiday
Comfortable accommodation Matakana | New Zealand holiday
Comfortable accommodation Matakana | New Zealand holiday
Stay in a comfortable chalet | New Zealand holiday with kids
Included accomodations
  • 21 nights in superior holiday houses and cottages
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 22 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Very comfortable eco house in Kaikoura | New Zealand holiday
Very comfortable eco house in Kaikoura | New Zealand holiday
Very comfortable eco house in Kaikoura | New Zealand holiday
Barbecue dinner with local hosts | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 21 nights staying at exclusive lodges and boutique villas, holiday houses
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 22 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Relax in your spa bath with view | New Zealand holiday
Luxury villa | New Zealand holiday
Enjoy the nice pool at your luxury accommodation | New Zealand holiday
Luxury lodge room | New Zealand holiday
Add flight
Experience the comfort of a Business Class flight with Cathay Pacific's lie-flat seats
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
Select car
Add activities
Price guide per person
Price per adult
Accommodation
and car change
0
Your flight change
0
Your car up- or downgrade change
0
Your activities change
0
Total price per adult
0
Price for all travellers
Adults 18+
0
Youth 12-17 yrs
0
Children 2-11 yrs
0
Infants 0-1 yr
0
Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
0

During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.

  • Detailed information
  • Inspirational
  • No obligations
  • Be well prepared
Step 1
Your journey
Detailed guide for
3 weeks from Otago Peninsula to Bay of Islands
Travellers
None
Accommodation and car
None
Flight
None chosen
Selected car
None
Activities
None
Change
Preferred time of year
Remarks
Step 2
Contact options
Contact person

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation