The best tours in New Zealand showcase the country’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and adventure-filled experiences. Hannah and I spent a month traveling around New Zealand, taking a break from our usual long-stay style of travel to see as much of the country as we could.
We mixed a house sit with Airbnb stays, driving between towns and flying between the major cities. Booking excursions is something we always factor into our travel, and we knew New Zealand would provide plenty of opportunities to join a tour and experience more of a country we had dreamed of visiting for years.
From whale watching in Auckland to adrenaline-fueled jet boating in Queenstown, New Zealand did not disappoint. If you’re planning your trip, check out our guide on traveling around New Zealand for tips on making the most of your journey.
Tips for Booking New Zealand Tours
Before we dive into the best tours in New Zealand, here are just a couple of things you need to consider before booking anything.
- Book in advance – Popular activities tours fill up quickly. Don’t wait until you arrive to book your excursions.
- Check the season – Some tours, especially wildlife encounters, are best at certain times of the year.
- Dress for the weather – New Zealand’s climate can change quickly, so bring layers.
- Choose small group tours – A more intimate setting enhances experiences like wine tasting and adventure sports.
- Know your fitness level – Activities like ziplining or jet boating can be physically demanding.
- Check your insurance – Travel insurance policies may not cover extreme sports or excursions considered dangerous. Always check you are covered.
Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
Sailing through the Hauraki Gulf was a highlight of our time in Auckland. We spotted dolphins playing alongside the boat and even caught a very brief glimpse of a majestic Bryde’s whale. The guides provided fascinating insights about marine life, making this an unforgettable experience.
The scenery was stunning, and being out on the open water made for a relaxing break from the city. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful yet exciting day out. Click here for more information and booking.
Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set Day Trip
For fans of The Lord of the Rings, visiting Hobbiton is an absolute must. Walking through the iconic movie set, seeing Bag End up close, and grabbing a drink at the Green Dragon Inn is a surreal experience. It genuinely feels like stepping into Middle-earth.
The tour also included a visit to the Waitomo Caves, where you’ll float beneath thousands of glowworms lighting up the darkness. This is a must-do for movie lovers and those wanting to see one of New Zealand’s most unique natural wonders. Click here to book your trip to Hobbiton today.
Waipara Wine Trail Tour from Christchurch
New Zealand’s wine scene is world-famous, and this tour through the Waipara Valley gave us a taste of why. We spent the day sipping on locally produced Pinot Noirs and crisp Sauvignon Blancs while learning about the region’s unique winemaking process.
The boutique wineries, friendly hosts, and scenic landscapes made it a relaxing and enjoyable escape from Christchurch. After weeks of adventure activities, slowing down and appreciating New Zealand’s wine culture was a welcome change of pace.
If you love wine and want a laid-back day trip, this tour is a fantastic choice. Click here for more details.
Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride
Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, and this jet boat ride lived up to the hype. Racing through narrow canyons at high speeds with sharp 360-degree spins was an adrenaline rush like no other.
The drivers had an almost unbelievable level of control, skimming past the canyon walls with just inches to spare. It was one of the most thrilling things we did in New Zealand, and we couldn’t stop laughing at the sheer intensity of it.
Thrill-seekers and adventure lovers shouldn’t miss this one. Learn more right here!
Queenstown Zipline Tour
Soaring through the trees above Queenstown while taking in panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu was an experience we won’t forget. The zipline tour combined stunning scenery with just the right amount of adventure.
The guides were fantastic, sharing eco-friendly conservation efforts while making sure everyone had a great time. The variety of zipline lengths and heights meant there was a good mix of challenge and fun, making it an excellent choice for both families and adventure-seekers. Click here for more details.
Conclusion
The best tours in New Zealand showcase everything from dramatic landscapes and iconic movie sets to thrilling adventures and world-class wine. Booking tours allowed us to experience New Zealand in a way that simply wouldn’t have been possible on our own.
Whether you’re into wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or adrenaline-pumping activities, there’s no shortage of incredible tours to choose from. No matter where you go in New Zealand, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.
FAQs About New Zealand Tours
What are the best tours in New Zealand for first-time visitors? The best tours in New Zealand for first-time visitors include the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton tour, whale watching in Auckland, and jet boating in Queenstown.
Are guided tours in New Zealand worth it? Guided tours in New Zealand are worth it for hassle-free experiences, expert insights, and access to unique locations like the Waitomo Caves and Waipara wine region.
What are the best adventure tours in New Zealand? The best adventure tours in New Zealand include the Shotover River jet boat ride, Queenstown ziplining, and exploring glowworm caves in Waitomo.
Can I take day trips in New Zealand from major cities? Yes, you can take day trips in New Zealand from major cities like Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown, with options like wine tours, boat cruises, and nature excursions.
What is the best way to book tours in New Zealand? The best way to book tours in New Zealand is online in advance, ensuring availability for popular experiences, I highly recommend booking through a reputable and trusted agent like Viator.
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