Small Group Tour
Small Group Tour
Start: Auckland
Finish: Wellington
Whats included:
- 11 day guided small group tour (up to 16 passengers)
- 9 nights accommodation - x6 hotel (twin share) and x2 lodge (multi-share)
- Plus 1 night Māori Village overnight experience (traditional multi-share room)
- 10 tasty breakfasts (vegetarian, vegan and GF options available)
- 2 locally sourced dinners (vegetarian, vegan and GF options available)
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds guided tour
- Māori Waka (boat) experience
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave guided tour
- Behind the scenes tour of a Kiwi Conservation Hatchery
- Lake Taupo sailing experience
- Redwoods Treetop walk
- Tongariro National Park
- Te Papa Museum visit
- Whangarei Falls visit
- Various scenic hikes including; Ruakuri walk in Waitomo, Huka Falls walk in Taupo, Taranaki Falls in Tongariro National Park.
Tiaki means to care for people and place.
Kiwi Experience are committed to the ‘Tiaki Promise’ which is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations. To care for land, sea and nature. Treading lightly and leaving no trace. To travel safely showing care and consideration. To respect culture and travel with an open heart.
New Zealand's outstanding landscapes attract thousands of travelers each year; all those visitors however can leave Mother Nature a little worse for wear. Our #Revive Tours align with Tiaki and we believe that treading lightly means you’ll help give back to the communities you visit, protect the wildlife and nature you’ll interact with, and the landscapes we all share. All activities included in this tour are environmentally friendly and give back to the local communities we visit each day.
Join us on our journey to discover and learn new cultures, venture off the beaten track, and explore like a local. #embracetheunexpected
Read more on ourBooking Guaranteehere
Tour Dates - 2023
- 3 - 13 October Book here
- 7 - 17 November Book here
- 5 - 15 December Book here
Tour Dates - 2024
- 9 - 19 January Book here
- 13 - 23 February Book here
- 5 - 15 March Book here
- 2 - 12 April Book here
NZ$3299
Book Now
Auckland Arrival
Welcome to Auckland, the city of sails and the larget city in New Zealand, where you will begin your tour. Your accommodation for this evening is included and will be staying at the Copthorne Hotel, located at 150 Anzac Avenue, Auckland Central. You'll be able to check into your accommodation from 2pm onwards.
If you have the time today we recommend walking round Auckland CBD, and visiting the iconic SkyTower, giving your 360 degree views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. If you want to venture even further then we recommend checking out Mt Eden; an extinct volcano in Auckland City with great views of the Auckland's harbour.
This evening at 7pm, meet your Kiwi Experience Driver Guide and the rest of your tour companions at a local bar for a couple of drinks (included).
Accommodation
- Copthorne Hotel
Experiences & Highlights
- Auckland City
- Meet & greet your tour group
Auckland to Bay of Islands
Departing Auckland, we stop at Whangarei Falls on our way North, arriving in the Bay of Islands around midday. Check out the sights surrounding Paihia, including New Zealand's most historic location Waitangi - the 'Birthplace of the Nation'. Northland is rich in history and Māori culture and with its crystal clear water, huge kauri forests, and plentiful islands to explore - you will soon see why Kiwi Experience heads up north. This afternoon you'll have a guided tour of the Waitangi museum.
Accommodation
- Kingsgate Hotel Paihia (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Whangarei Falls
- Waitangi treaty grounds
Bay of Islands
Today is your day to experience and visit some of the 144 islands situated in the area.
Seedolphins, ride out to the famous hole in the rock, or go kayaking, fishing, diving, Parasailing, or just relax on the beach!
Accommodation
- Kingsgate Hotel Paihia (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Hole in the rock cruise (optional add-on)
- Cape Reinga tour (optional add-on)
- Parasailing (optional add-on)
Bay of Islands to Auckland
After breakfast you'll get the opportunity to paddle in a real traditional Maori Waka with unique insights into our ancient customs, rituals and traditions. The Bay of Islands originally known as Taiamai is home to Ngapuhi, New Zealand’s largest tribal Maori group. Paddle your way to the Haruru Falls and soak in the amazing sights of Paihia and Waitangi.
Accommodation
- The Cophorne Hotel (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Waka experience (included)
Auckland to Waitomo via Raglan
Departing Auckland we head south to Raglan; well known for its pristine black-sand beach and long surf break at Manu Bay. Here you have the option to go surfing (lessons and surfboard hire are optional), kayak around this stunning coastline (optional), or simply wind down and take in the amazing scenery. After an action packed morning of activities (or relaxing) and lunch at Bridal Veil falls, we’ll head onto Waitomo; known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions. We’ll take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto and marvel at thousands of magical glowworms. Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature’s light display.
Accommodation
- Waitomo Chalets (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided tour (included)
- Surf lesson in Raglan (optional add-on)
- Kayaking in Raglan (optional add-on)
Waitomo to Rotorua
We start the day with a walk through the Ruakuri Reserve and say goodbye to those glowing little critters. Next, we'll pass through The Shire of Hobbiton where you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Hobbiton Movie Set (optional activity) before rolling on through to Rotorua; a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. On arrival to Rotorua we'll head to Redwoods Tree Walk - a 700 metre long walkway that consists of a series of 28 suspension bridges traversing the gaps between 27 majestic 120-year-old Redwood trees. Enjoy breathtaking and stunning views from a birds eye perspective.
Accommodation
- Copthorne Rotorua (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (optional add-on)
- Ruakuri Reserve hike
- Redwoods Treetop walk
Rotorua
There's so many things to see and do in Rotorua, there's something for everyone. This morning we'll go to the National Kiwi Hatchery (included) where you’ll get a behind the scenes tour, getting you close and personal with our national icon – the Kiwi bird. Every person on our tour that visits, helps us contribute to the survival of these endangered bird species.
Afterwoods we'll explore Kuirau geothermal parks to see the crater lake, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and a free thermal foot bath. One that we would defintely recommend is heading up the Skyline Gondola (optional add-on) for amazing panaramic views of Rotorua and if you're feeling more adventurous, head back down by luging; a part go kart, part toboggan fuelled by gravity, wind through the downhill track whilst taking in the breathtaking views.
From late afternoon we head off to visit Te Pa Tu Maori Village where you will be immersed in the traditions and cultural values of the Māori people. Participate in a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), learn about the history of the marae (village) and theRotorua-areafrom a local Māori guide before feasting on some top kai (food) from the hāngi pit. Afterwards, gather around a blazing bonfire where you will enjoy Māori myths and legends before relaxing in a private forest spa pool and retiring for the night in a traditional carved whare moe (sleeping house).
Accommodation
- Te Pa Tu Maori Village - a traditional carved wharemoe sleeping house (multi-share)
Experiences & Highlights
- National Kiwi Hatchery visit
- Full day free time to explore Rotorua
- Kairau Geothermal Park
- Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge (optional add-on)
- Rotorua Canopy Zipline tour (optional add-on)
- Mount Tarawera Volcanic Crater hike (optional add-on)
Rotorua to Taupo
Today we leave the geothermal wonderland and head to the Great Lake Taupo; New Zealand’s largest lake (actually an extinct volcano crater) where you’ll get visit and walk Huka Falls. Afterwards we'll set sail on NZ's only commercial electric (zero carbon) yacht on the crystal-blue waters of Lake Taupō. Investigate the hidden bays and dramatic coastline that tell the story of Taupō’s volcanic past. Only accessible by boat, discover the history and cultural significance of the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.
Accommodation
- Lakefront Lodge (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Huka Falls walk
- Sailing on Lake Taupo
Taupo
Taupo’s central location means it’s a hop, skip and a jump away from other world-class activities which we give you the option to experience on this free day. Experience Mount Ruapehu or hikethe Tongariro Alpine Crossing (extra activity); a dramatic landscape of stunning contrasts created by extinguished lava flows and emerald lakes. It’s no surprise Tongariro is often described as one of New Zealand’s best one-day hikes.
Accommodation
- Lakefront Lodge (twin share)
Experiences & Highlights
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike (optional add-on)
Taupo to River Valley
We head south today around the Tongariro National Park and travel through to the ultimate adventure Eco-lodge - River Valley. Situated amongst towering cliffs and bush-clad hills the family run lodge offers grade five white water rafting on the Rangitikei River, scenic horse riding, and amazing scenery to sit back and relax. Spend the evening enjoying the delicious home grown roast dinner and relax by the open fire.
Accommodation
- River Valley Lodge (multi-share)
Free Time Add-ons
- Taranaki Falls walk in Tongariro National Park
- Horse Treking (optional add-on)
- White Water Rafting (optional add-on)
- Home grown roast dinner
River Valley to Wellington
We head away this morning and head through the rolling hills full of deer, cattle and sheep, where we’ll stop off in Taihape for a friendly gumboot throwing competition. Yes that’s right you heard correctly. You’ll get to enjoy a friendly gumboot throwing comp in the gumboot capital of the world. After all the excitement of rubber we head on to Wellington arriving early afternoon. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion, nightlife and craft beer. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (included) and Te Papa; New Zealand's national museum. Unfortunately the tour is nearly over :( but before we all hug it out and shed some tears, we’ll take a visit to Wellington’s well known “Cuba Street” for one last hurrah!
Experiences & Highlights
- Taihape Gumboot throwing competition
- Mount Victoria lookout
- Te Papa museum visit
- Please note accommodation is not included on this day
What's Included
- 9 nights accommodation - 6 hotel (twin share) and 2 lodge (multi-share)
- Plus 1 night Maori Village overnight experience (traditional multi-share room)
- 10 tasty breakfasts (vegetarian, vegan and GF options available)
- 2 locally sourced dinners (vegetarian, vegan and GF options available)
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds guided tour
- Maori Waka (boat) experience
- Whangarei Falls visit
- Redwoods Treetop Walk
- Behind the scenes tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery
- Lake Taupo sailing experience
- Tongariro National Park
- Te Papa Museum
- Various scenic hikes
Optional Extras
Our Small Group Toursoffer a fixed itinerary, with a few bucket list items included. There are plenty of additional activities you can add on to your experience as you travel.
What our passengers think
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Getting to know New Zealand, nature and the culture
Meeting new people from all over the world, and making great memories— Elisa (Germany)
Learn about NZ, other people and about myself
The tour is small enough to bond, but big enough to still meet loads of new people— Ruoling (Canada)
Its a lot of fun, you really get to know people and connect.
You travel a lot of ground on this tour, see lots of things and Kiwi Experience provides lots of activities to do, paid and free.— Isabella (Denmark)
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Faq's
I’m a solo traveller... will I meet other solo travellers?
Absolutely! The majority of our passengers are travelling solo. Kiwi Experience is a social experience guaranteed to leave with new friends from across the globe.
Am I too old/young for Kiwi Experience?
We welcome the young, and the young at heart aboard our buses, there is no upper limit! There is however a lower limit; you’ll need to be 18 at the time of travel.
How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Passengers are allowed one 23kg suitcase/backpack and one day bag, as there are strict weight restrictions on our buses.
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FAQs
How much does the Kiwi Experience cost? ›
Activity prices range from $10-$200, depending on how much of a 'bucket list experience' they are. For example, a helicopter ride to the Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most expensive Kiwi tours. But some activities are free, such as hiking and walking.
What is similar to the Kiwi Experience? ›In terms of setup Stray NZ is very similar to Kiwi Experience – it's a hop on, hop off format, the passes are valid for 12 months and there are a variety of passes to choose from.
How do I book Kiwi Experience? ›Log into the Online Trip Planner to book your buses and accommodation. Get in touch with our Reservations Team at +64 (09) 336 4286 or email travel@kiwiex.co.nz, who will support you with putting together your dream trip.
Who owns Kiwi Experience? ›Tourist heavyweight Tourism Holdings has bought out backpacker bus company Kiwi Experience and its Australian sister operation, Oz Experience. Tourism Holdings, which until now owned 50 per cent of the two companies, said its takeover completed a two-year programme of joint-venture buyouts.
Is Kiwi a safe website to buy tickets from? ›We often see questions on various platforms online asking, “is Kiwi.com safe for booking flights with?” The answer is yes, Kiwi is 100% safe and legit. We're a reputable travel company with one objective, to use our innovative technology to help you find affordable flight options to get you from A to B.
Is Kiwi a reliable place to buy tickets? ›They offer a flight guarantee for unprotected flight routes
But Kiwi actually offers a guarantee that covers cases of flight delays, cancellations, and schedule changes. If your flight is suddenly canceled or there wasn't enough time to make your connection, Kiwi will put you on a new flight for free.
When you refer to a New Zealander, you're welcome to call us Kiwis – a name that has become so entrenched in our culture, it's hard to imagine being called anything else! Did you know? There is no 's' in te reo Māori, so officially a group of people from New Zealand are called 'kiwi' – not 'kiwis'.
What can I use instead of kiwi? ›2 fresh nectarines or peaches can be substituted for the kiwi fruit. Alternatively, a 298g (10 1/2oz) can of mandarin segments in juice can be substituted for the kiwi fruit and orange juice. Try using 1 large ripe mango, peeled and stoned, instead of the melon.
Why is the kiwi so famous? ›Kiwi are a significant national icon, equally cherished by all cultures in New Zealand. Kiwi are a symbol for the uniqueness of New Zealand wildlife and the value of our natural heritage. The bird itself is a taonga (treasure) to Maori, who have strong cultural, spiritual and historic associations with kiwi.
Where to find Kiwi boarding pass? ›Yes, you'll find the original PDF from the airline in your trip page. If you're in the app, you might see the mobile boarding pass first — just tap on the button below it to download the original PDF.
Do you have to print Kiwi boarding pass? ›
Do I need to print the boarding pass? You should always print your boarding pass unless there is a mobile version available. Most airlines require a printed document.
How do I get the Kiwi app? ›If you have an Android, go to the Kiwi.com app on the Google Play Store. Click Install and the Kiwi.com app will be ready for use in just a few seconds. If you have an iPhone, go to Kiwi.com in the App Store. Click Get and the app will be installed on your phone.
Is Kiwi a US company? ›Kiwi is an online travel agency, based in the Czech Republic, specializing in combining flights and other forms of transportation into a single booking to get you where you need to go for a low price.
How long has Kiwi com been around? ›Kiwi.com (previously known as skypicker.com) is a Czech online travel agency founded by Oliver Dlouhý and Jozef Képesi in 2012. Kiwi.com provides a fare aggregator, metasearch engine and booking for airline tickets and ground transportation.
How do you travel by bus in New Zealand? ›Using the national buses are easy. You can book your trip online or with most travel agents and accommodations in New Zealand. Then, just show up at the required bus stop 15 minutes before the departure time. The bus driver usually asks for a name and booking number (or bus pass details) then you hop on the bus.
What happens if I miss a flight with Kiwi com? ›If you miss your trip because of your own fault, you'll need to arrange and pay for your own alternative trip. However, you can try to apply for a refund for the missed trip.
Why is kiwi popular in New Zealand? ›During the First World War, New Zealand soldiers were referred to as 'kiwis', and the nickname stuck. Eventually, the term Kiwi was attributed to all New Zealanders, who proudly embraced the moniker. Just like the bird, New Zealanders are unique, adaptable and a little quirky.
What are New Zealand people called? ›New Zealanders, or "Kiwis" as they are called, have been shaped by their isolation. Today, most Kiwis are no longer farmers, with 86 percent of the population living in cities.
Why is New Zealand called kiwi? ›The name derives from the kiwi, a native flightless bird, which is a national symbol of New Zealand. Until the First World War, the kiwi represented the country and not the people; however, by 1917, New Zealanders were also being called "Kiwis", supplanting other nicknames such as "Enzedder".
What to avoid when buying kiwi? ›Look for kiwifruit that feel slightly firm. Size does not affect taste. Avoid buying kiwi that are very soft, cracked or wrinkled.
How do you make kiwi less slippery? ›
If the kiwi pieces are too slippery and baby gets frustrated, roll them in a finely ground food like shredded coconut flakes, breadcrumbs, crushed cereal, hemp seed, or finely ground nut.
Is golden kiwi the same as kiwi? ›Visually, you'll see a fairly striking difference between our Green and SunGold™ varieties. The green kiwi has a fuzzy brown skin and oval shape. Gold kiwifruit, in contrast, has smooth, hairless skin that's a nice golden-brown color. Slicing the fruit in half reveals even more differences.
What is unusual about the kiwi? ›The kiwi is a unique and curious bird: it cannot fly, has loose, hair-like feathers, strong legs and no tail. Learn more about the kiwi, the national icon of New Zealand and unofficial national emblem.
What is the national fruit of New Zealand? ›Remarks | |
---|---|
Kiwifruit | This fruit was branded kiwifruit when growers in New Zealand established successful cultivars suitable for export. It remains a major export for the country. |
Koru | The koru, widely used in traditional Māori art, is a stylised depiction of an unfurling silver fern frond. |
They usually open it one or two days before departure but it varies for each airline. We'll then automatically start checking you in and get you your boarding pass. We'll notify you when it's ready.
Do I need to print my boarding pass? ›Depending on the requirements of airport authorities, you will need to present a mobile boarding pass, a paper boarding pass printed out by you or a paper boarding pass picked up from the check-in desk.
How do I add baggage to Kiwi? ›We recommend adding baggage through Kiwi.com, but it's also possible to add baggage directly through the carrier — whether online, through their customer support, or at the airport.
Can you just use digital boarding pass? ›Yes, simply show your mobile boarding pass on a mobile phone, iPad, or Apple Watch and a valid form of identification to the TSA Agent at security to proceed. To board your flight, scan your mobile boarding pass by holding one of the devices listed above with your pass facing the scanner.
What is the difference between a boarding pass and a ticket? ›The difference between a flight ticket and a boarding pass is how you use them. You use a flight ticket or E-ticket to check in at the check-in counter and get your boarding pass. With the boarding pass, you get access to the beyond the security area in the airport and the airplane.
What if I Cannot print my boarding pass? ›If you are having trouble printing your boarding passes, this may be related to security requirements. The security reason is displayed by the passenger name. if you encounter this issue, you can collect your boarding pass from the check-in counter at the airport once the security requirements have been completed.
Is Kiwi for Gmail free? ›
Kiwi for Gmail has 4 pricing editions, from $0.79 to $58.90. A free trial of Kiwi for Gmail is also available.
How does the Kiwi app work? ›1. At a random time each day, a notification will prompt you and your friends to share your most recently played song. 2. Show your friends what you really think about their music taste by swiping right to save the songs they share or left if they're not your style.
How do I download e tickets from Kiwi? ›To download your e-ticket or invoice, go to "Bookings", open a particular trip, scroll down, and tap "Other". You'll also receive the e-ticket and invoice in your booking confirmation email. To access your boarding passes or tickets, go to "Bookings", open a particular trip, and tap "Tickets" under Trip info.
Where does kiwi come from in USA? ›Kiwifruit production in the United States is mostly concentrated in California because kiwifruit is not cold hardy. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in hardy kiwi production due to its high nutritional values, smooth skin, and sweet taste. Hardy kiwi is also known as kiwiberry.
Where does us get kiwis? ›United States imports most of its Kiwi fruit from Italy, New Zealand and Chile and is the 2nd largest importer of Kiwi fruit in the World.
How do I talk to someone at kiwi? ›Our customer service can be contacted as follows: For commercial inquiries, complaints or objections, please contact our commercial customer service by e-mail at sales@kiwi.ki For technical inquiries, complaints or objections, please contact our technical customer service by e-mail at service@kiwi.ki In addition, we ...
Where is kiwi headquarters? ›Our headquarters are in Brno, Czech Republic, but you'll find us all over the world. In some countries, we've established branches, and in others, we cooperate with local vendors.
How many employees does kiwi have? ›KIWI has <25 employees. View the comprehensive list of KIWI employees, their locations, business contact details and key personnel.
What is the registered address of Kiwi com? ›with a registered office at 1221 Brickell Avenue, Suite 1115, Miami, Florida, 33131, United States, if you fulfill the following criteria: (i) your payment is made by a credit/debit card from Visa or Mastercard and is issued by US bank/registered issuer, and (ii) you make the payment for the respective Kiwi.com Service ...
How much does the Kiwi experience cost? ›Activity prices range from $10-$200, depending on how much of a 'bucket list experience' they are. For example, a helicopter ride to the Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most expensive Kiwi tours. But some activities are free, such as hiking and walking.
What is the best way to tour New Zealand? ›
- Rent a Car. Every year, hundreds of thousands of New Zealand trips start with picking up a rental car. ...
- Rent a Campervan or Motorhome. ...
- National Coach. ...
- Guided Bus Tours. ...
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours.
You can comfortably explore four to five different destinations with ten days in New Zealand. Spend up to two days in each city, including the "Big Little City" of Auckland, geothermal Rotorua, and scenic Wanaka.
Is Kiwi com a travel agent? ›Kiwi.com (previously known as skypicker.com) is a Czech online travel agency founded by Oliver Dlouhý and Jozef Képesi in 2012. Kiwi.com provides a fare aggregator, metasearch engine and booking for airline tickets and ground transportation.
How much is kiwi in New Zealand? ›Month | NZD |
---|---|
Nov 2021 | 4.98 |
Dec 2021 | 4.26 |
Jan 2022 | 6.31 |
Feb 2022 | 8.99 |
Set in New Zealand and shot in Te Muri Bay just north of Auckland, Kiwi Christmas is the brainchild of director Tony Simpson, creator of 2012's Nelson trolley derby film Kiwi Flyer.
How long does Kiwi take to process booking? ›Our booking process is automated and usually takes around 20 minutes. However, there are instances where it can take longer, such as if a carrier reservation needs to be made manually. This could be the case if there's a surge in bookings or if the carriers' booking system has temporary technical difficulties.
How do I trust a travel agent? ›One of the best and most reliable ways to decide on a travel agent is their reputation. Word of mouth is still a good way to find out about a travel agent. Personal recommendations from friends and family are a good source. But you can also look at what other people think about them online.
Can you cancel your trip with Kiwi? ›You can cancel your trip up to 48 hours before its scheduled departure, and still be eligible to receive a refund. Your refund will depend on the ticket type you picked when booking your trip, and will either be in Kiwi.com Credit or sent back to your original form of payment.
Can a US citizen move to New Zealand? ›If you want to stay in New Zealand permanently, possibly to become a citizen, you need a permanent residency visa. Permanent residency visas can be evaluated based on “points” given for factors like your age, profession, and education level.
How much is a kiwi in the US? ›Amount | Today at 7:56 am | 24H Change |
---|---|---|
0.5 KIWI | $0.0165 | -8.68% |
1 KIWI | $0.0329 | -8.68% |
5 KIWI | $0.16 | -8.68% |
10 KIWI | $0.33 | -8.68% |
How much does it cost to live in New Zealand in US dollars? ›
The average cost of living in New Zealand for a single person per month, not including rent, is USD$815-$1,000. For a family of four, it's USD$2,950-$3,600 per month.