The jewel in the crown of Students on Tour NZ! Explore one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, offering the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring scenery. Jet boats, caves, dolphins, luge rides, shopping, this tour has something for everyone. This is a truly authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll treasure forever.

Spaces are limited so get in quick to avoid disappointment. This tour will sell out!

CHRISTCHURCH

Welcome to Te Waipounamu, New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island! Upon arrival, we gather at our accommodation and begin our journey in Christchurch, a city that has been reborn following the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. We’ll explore this resilient, rebuilt city on a guided tour, discovering its unique blend of history, innovation, and creativity. In the evening, we come together for a group pizza dinner, getting to know each other and building excitement for the incredible adventure that lies ahead on this unforgettable South Island tour.

Includes: Christchurch city walking tour and dinner.

CHRISTCHURCH-KAIKOURA

We kick off our day bright and early, traveling up SH1 to the breathtaking seaside town of Kaikōura, a world-renowned marine sanctuary. We start our time in Kaikōura with a visit to a lively seal colony before enjoying a relaxing lunch. Then comes the highlight of your Students on Tour NZ experience, a spectacular whale-watching cruise. With a remarkable 90% success rate, get your camera ready to capture the awe-inspiring moment as majestic whales dive into the depths, framed by the stunning snow-capped Kaikōura Ranges. Many cruises also encounter playful dolphins adding more magic to the experience. We end this unforgettable day with a delicious dinner on the beach, basking in the glow of a beautiful sunset and reflecting on the incredible adventure.

Includes: Breakfast, dinner and whale watching experience.

KAIKOURA-HANMER SPRINGS

We start the day with a well-deserved sleep-in before setting off on a picturesque drive over the scenic Kaikōura Ranges to the charming alpine town of Hanmer Springs. Known for its world-famous hot pools, Hanmer Springs offers something for everyone. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the naturally heated thermal pools or enjoy an adrenaline-pumping ride down the hydro slides for some light-hearted fun. After dinner, you’ll have the option to return to the pools for another go on the slides or simply relax and unwind at our spacious and comfortable accommodation. A perfect day of relaxation and adventure.

Includes: Breakfast, Hanmer Springs Hot Pools entry, dinner

HANMER SPRINGS-CHARLESTON

Embark on a scenic drive across the breathtaking Lewis Pass, passing through the dramatic Buller Gorge, home to an impressive and thunderous river. Our destination is Underworld Adventures, where an authentic Kiwi experience awaits. Hop aboard a charming train ride, explore mesmerizing glowworm-lit caves, and take on the thrill of black water rafting. This is an unforgettable adventure that captures the heart of New Zealand’s wild beauty and excitement!

Students can choose from Black Water Rafting (not for the fainthearted) or glowworms and train ride tour.

Includes: Breakfast, lunch, Underworld Adventures experience and dinner

CHARLESTON-HAAST 

After an overnight stay at the old goldmining town of Charleston we journey along the breathtaking West Coast, renowned for its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes. Our first stop is the famous Pancake rocks before we stop for lunch in the charming seaside town of Hokitika, where you can soak in its quaint atmosphere and discover its rich history. Next, we try our luck panning for gold in the historic gold-mining town of Ross. The adventure continues as we get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier, a true natural wonder. We conclude this spectacular day in the tranquil township of Haast, ready to rest and reflect on the incredible sights we’ve experienced.

Includes: Breakfast, Pancake Rocks, gold panning, walk to Franz Josef Glacier and dinner 

HAAST-QUEENSTOWN

Prepare for one of the most breathtakingly scenic days you’ll ever experience! Begin by driving over the stunning Haast Pass, taking in incredible views as we make our way to the picturesque lakeside town of Wānaka. Here, we’ll stop to test our minds and have a laugh at the iconic Puzzling World. From there, we journey over the dramatic Crown Range, the highest sealed road in New Zealand, before descending into Queenstown—the adventure capital of the world and our home for the next two days. Get ready for unforgettable adventures and stunning surroundings!

Includes: Breakfast, Puzzling World entry and dinner

QUEENSTOWN

Kick off the day with an exhilarating gondola ride that offers stunning panoramic views of Queenstown, followed by an adrenaline-pumping luge ride down the track—tight turns and high-speed fun guaranteed! Next, experience the iconic Shotover Jet, a thrilling jet boat ride through narrow canyons, a true Queenstown classic. In the evening, unwind and explore Queenstown's vibrant urban centre, with time to shop, enjoy a delicious meal, and soak in the lively atmosphere after the rugged beauty of the West Coast.

Includes: Breakfast, Skyline Queenstown gondola and luge rides, Shotover Jet, dinner

QUEENSTOWN

Today you have the chance to choose what activity you want to do! Students on Tour NZ has secured special prices for many Queenstown adventure activities. White water rafting is always a popular choice! For those who would prefer a sophisticated day hit the shops in Queenstown and enjoy a leisurely lunch. We’ll handle the booking for any activity you’d like to experience. Rest assured, students will always be accompanied by our experienced guides, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure. The choice continues at dinner, where you can decide what you'd like to enjoy (at your own cost). Whether you’re craving local delicacies or familiar favourites, there are plenty of options to suit every taste!

Activities on offer (at own cost)

•          White water rafting

•          Mountain biking

•          Nevis Canyon Swing

•          Nevis Bungy

Includes: Breakfast and dinner (student activities not included)

QUEENSTOWN-TWIZEL

Start the day with an adrenaline-filled stop at AJ Hackett’s Kawerau Bridge Bungy, where you can watch thrill-seekers take the leap from one of the world’s most iconic bungy jumping sites—or test your own bravery and take the plunge! After this unforgettable experience, we journey over the spectacular Lindis Pass, leaving the rugged terrain behind as we enter the breathtaking landscapes of the Mackenzie Country, known for its wide-open spaces and stunning vistas.

Includes: Breakfast, bungy jump viewing (bungy at own cost) and dinner

TWIZEL-MT COOK-TEKAPO

Start the day with the breathtaking Hooker Valley Walk, a stunning trail that takes you through alpine landscapes with dramatic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding glaciers. After immersing yourself in nature, unwind with a relaxing soak in the Tekapo Hot Springs, where you can enjoy the soothing warmth and serene views of Lake Tekapo—a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation! Enjoy our last dinner together.

Includes: Breakfast, Hooker Valley walk, lunch, Tekapo Hot Springs entry and dinner

TEKAPO-CHRISTCHURCH

Enjoy a scenic drive as we descend from the majestic Southern Alps into the vast, picturesque Canterbury Plains. Soak in the final views of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes before arriving back in Christchurch, where our incredible journey began. To conclude your adventure, we’ll ensure a smooth transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Includes: Buffet breakfast and transport to Christchurch Airport