What to do and see in New Zealand, New Zealand: The Best Day Trips from

June 15, 2021 Randal Brittian

New Zealand (/njuːˈziːlənd/ ( listen); Māori: Aotearoa [aɔˈtɛaɾɔa]) is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country geographically comprises two main landmasses—the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui), and the South Island (Te Waipounamu)—and around 600 smaller islands. New Zealand is situated some 1,500 kilometres (900 mi) east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 mi) south of the Pacific island areas of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans. During its long period of isolation, New Zealand developed a distinct biodiversity of animal, fungal and plant life. The country's varied topography and its sharp mountain peaks, such as the Southern Alps, owe much to the tectonic uplift of land and volcanic eruptions. New Zealand's capital city is Wellington, while its most populous city is Auckland.
Restaurants in New Zealand

1. Mount Cook Lake Tekapo & Tasman Glacier (small Group Tour Including Lunch)

NZSI Tours & Travel
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5.0 based on 6 reviews

Travel in a small group from Christchurch, on a day trip to Aoraki Mount Cook – the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Visit the picturesque Church of Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo and admire stunning alpine views from turquoise colored Lake Pukaki. Savor a scrumptious buffet lunch at the Hermitage Hotel and enjoy a scenic walk in Mt. Cook National Park to see the Tasman Glacier. Visit the Alpine Lavender farm in a pristine environment of crystal clear skies; snow capped mountains, and turquoise colored lakes of glacial melt.

Inclusions: Approximately 3 hrs of free time in Mount Cook National park., Bottled water., Buffet Lunch at The Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook., Complimentary light refreshments., National Park fees., Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel / apartment in Christchurch included., Transport by air-conditioned late model Mercedes Benz Minivan.

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By anjukris

This day trip along with one to Lake Tekapo and Mt.Cook organized by NZSI were the highlights of our trip to the South Island. Mr. Anuj.K was an excellent tour guide and driver. He was very thoughtful, kind and considerate. He also clicked some great photographs of us. The hikes were refreshing and the look-out points were breathtaking. In general, the itinerary was concise and was followed to the T! We will definitely consider NZSI for future trips to the South Island.

2. Cape Reinga - 90 Mile Beach Tour

Mullarkeys Tours
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5.0 based on 19 reviews

Mullarkey tours – Cape Reinga Full day trip – offers a comfortable small group tour – maximum 11 passengers, with knowledgeable, humorous tour leaders – that will make sure you get to see and hear about all the best bits of the Far North and won’t forget the best photo opportunities!

Inclusions: Tour leader

Exclusions: Lunch, Hire of sand boards

Reviewed By NannyDebs74

My daughter organised this trip for my Christmas present. We booked the tour at the last minute to make the most of the weather and other activities we wanted to do in the north. We were well accommodated, our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and patient. We really appreciated that the tour went ahead given the current climate for tourism. A great variety of venues on this tour.

3. Private Martinborough Wine Delights Tour from Wellington

Kaewa Tours Ltd
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Your tour is your tour only! No mixed groups! You get to have your own dedicated Driver/Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy a 7 hour private tour from Wellington to the South Wairarapa covering majestic scenery, visits to Gladstone and Martinborough Wineries including a spectacular platter lunch at one of the wineries we visit. We also visit the beautiful town of Martinborough well recognised for the 'Capital' of Pinot Noir of the North Island. We visit 4 wineries including lunch at a winery. Your tour also includes a private tour at one of the wineries visited covering the winery, vineyard and tastings. If you have any particular winery you wish to visit this can be arranged in advance. Please note this tour is only available for 18 years of age and older.

Inclusions: Bottled New Zealand spring water., Includes 1 glass of wine, beer or other beverage., Tasting fees, Entry fees, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation

Exclusions: Gratuities

4. Napier Gourmet Luncheon including Afternoon Wine Tour

Vines and Views Tours
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5.0 based on 35 reviews

Join this wonderful tour to enjoy tastings at three different wineries and the chef's gourmet platter with a glass of wine at Mission Estate Winery. * Spend time absorbing the history of the 170 year old Estate. *Select your own wine to accompany the gourmet platter. *Choose between wine or beer tasting at the Urban Winery. *Seated tasting at Linden Estate in the picturesque Esk Valley. *Stop in the vineyard and discuss growing grapes for wine making. *Conclude with complimentary wine,cheese and biscuits out among the vines, T

Inclusions: Wine-tasting fees, Chef's platter with glass of Estate Range wine at Mission Estate Winery, Wine, cheese and biscuits, Tour of the barrel hall and the Golden Egg fermentor at The Urban winery, Grape-growing and vineyard management discussion at Linden Estate, Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By boohyeah

Ross has been an awesome companion (yes, he was not just our driver and tour guide that arvo). He definitely knows what he is doing and it shows his passion and heart are put on to it. When I asked him about the history of one of the vineyards there (Marist), I was impressed about his knowledge of it. It made me even more curious since I found a link between that vineyard and the school I came from which was also started by the same Marist brothers. Love the personal touch with the cheese platter and wine in a hidden gem in Hawkes bay. If you're thinking of doing an activity while you are in Napier, definitely consider Ross and put it on your to do list. Thanks for the awesome time, Ross! =)

5. Private Tour Full Day Queenstown and Southern Lakes Photography Tour

Remarkable Imagery Photography Tours
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5.0 based on 10 reviews

This is your chance to photograph one of the most spectacular and majestic places on Earth; Queenstown and the Southern Lakes. This full-day private photography tour will take you to the iconic locations you see in brochures as well as those special spots only a local would know, to explore and capture the beauty and splendor for yourself. This tour is designed for photography enthusiasts and your guide is a passionate landscape photographer, with years of local knowledge. Enjoy 8-9 hours of visiting some of the most interesting and beautiful destinations close to Queenstown and around the Southern Lakes. The weather in this amazing region is constantly changing bringing many moods that to the mountains, lakes, rivers and forests. Whatever the conditions we always know where to take you to and how to capture unique scenes of outstanding natural beauty.

Inclusions: Private tour for small-groups or individuals, Flexible itinerary, Advice on creative composition and using your camera, Local photographer guide, Comfortable 4WD, Light refreshments, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Lunch (Opportunity to buy lunch), Camera (Nikon D5100, available to rent)

Reviewed By simoneO2710JR

We booked a photo tour of areas that most people wouldn’t go, to capture unique images. We were highly delighted with not only the tour locations but the personalised and engaging explanations of the flora, fauna, local stories and histories en route. Martin, our driver and guide; was excellent tutoring, driving and advising on images. We went off-road into stunning high country which offered excellent picture opportunities, can’t wait to process. Summer was brilliant, would love to return in winter! Highly recommended and would love to repeat with Martin again if back in New Zealand.

6. Coastal Kapiti: Private Sightseeing Tour - Full Day

uTours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Enjoy yourself on a relaxing private tour heading north to the Kāpiti Coast. Appreciate the Coast's natural unspoiled beauty, deserted beaches, local bird life, fabulous art and great food at a relaxed pace. Car enthusiasts will not want to miss the over 400 classic cars at Southward Car Museum. uTours offers you flexibility, informed conversation, individual attention, personal space and the opportunity to connect with the Kāpiti that locals love. Why chose uTours: Travel only with your friends (max 10). Your tour will be personalised to reflect your interests, pace & time requirements. Your vehicle is cleaned thoroughly between tours. You will be met on time at an agreed location, usually your accommodation. We will communicate with you quickly and clearly. You will be driven safely, have fun & be well looked after. May be available as a shore excursion, depending on your ship's schedule. uTours – it really is all about you!

Inclusions: We include cold drinks, coffee and locally made treats., Air-conditioned vehicle, Entry to Southward Car Museum

Exclusions: Lunch is at customer cost on the day. This is to maintain flexibility with your food choices. We will recommend excellent local food options based on when and where hunger strikes., Entry to Nga Manu Nature Reserve, A minimum of two guests is required

Reviewed By MarlenaDijkstra

Suzee had her work cut out for her with a mixed audience - young and old, local and non-local. She did an excellent job however of keeping us all entertained, and was able to adapt the programme to suit the weather and our varied interests. She has a wealth of knowledge about Wellington, and we enjoyed the surprise programme she had in store for us. The minibus was very comfortable, with nice big windows so we could sit back and enjoy the view. Would highly recommend Utours for any groups wanting to see a different side of Wellington and learn about its interesting history. Thanks Suzee!

7. Full-Day Milford Sound Extraordinaire Tour from Te Anau

Fiordland Tours
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5.0 based on 450 reviews

This full-day Milford Sound extraordinaire tour from Te Anau will have you traveling along the spectacular Milford Road. With fun commentary and plenty of local knowledge provided you will have a chance to see keas, seals, dolphins and the Fiordland crested penguin. Visit the historical Gunns Camp and enjoy an amazing morning tea that includes wonderful date scones, tea, coffee and biscuits, chocolates and fruit juice. Experience an amazing 20-minute walk to the Chasm. You will have the chance to do the most spectacular 30-minute walk to Milford Sound. It is the Marian Cascade which is a continuous cascading waterfall draining from a glacier fed lake. Your day will be topped off with a 2-hour cruise on the famous Milford Sound.

Inclusions: National Park fees, Coffee and/or Tea, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off from Te Anau, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Drinks, Lunch, Hotel Pick up from Manapouri (available by special arrangement. Additional costs may apply)

Reviewed By JMR700

We had a great day - our driver was very passionate and knowledgeable, and stopped along the way at places of interest for walks (if you wanted to), views and date scones :). The minivan was super comfortable and we could enjoy the scenery which is spectacular. Cruise Milford provided the cruise service and this was an awesome experience on a beautiful boat with a very friendly and informative captain. We had booked to fly back to Te Anau if able but the weather did not permit this, however we were more than happy to make the return trip back with our group by van.

8. Full Day Winemaker's Tour in Marlborough

Hop n Grape Tours
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5.0 based on 82 reviews

With a winemaker as your guide; your tour starts with an informative vineyard stroll, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at a modern working winery where you can taste grape juice fresh from the press, sample a young Pinot Noir from the barrel, or try a freshly filtered Sauvignon Blanc. You can ask all those curly questions, and capture the best behind-the-scenes winery photos. Next, we’ll get up close and personal with the Marlborough wine region and you’ll taste any delight that isn’t tied down. In our full day tour you visit 4-6 wineries which can include local breweries, with over 40 cellar doors to choose from, if you’ve got a favourite we’ll do our best to get you there. Lunch at a vineyard restaurant is always a highlight. There is opportunity to do a Cheese tasting, Olive oil tasting or a visit to Makana Chocolate Shop. Visit 4-6 wineries.

Inclusions: All wine tasting fees, Air-conditioned vehicle, Free door-to-door collection and drop off from Blenheim/Renwick areas, Picton, Havelock, Rarangi transfers may be available with additional charge., Lunch stop during the tour - at your own cost

Exclusions: Lunch - at your own cost on the day, Note: Bring a pair of closed shoes (no heels) for our winery visit, Note: We encourage our guests to have a good breakfast before the wine tour.

Reviewed By Jo D

Absolutely recommend Cam! If your visiting the Blenheim region and want the nicest and most knowledgeable guy in town - Cam your man! Thank you for the the best day ever Cam!

9. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

Auckland Scenic Tours
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5.0 based on 27 reviews

Make the most of your time in Auckland with a small-group tour to the magical and enchanting Hobbiton - Lord of the Rings Movie Set. Enjoy the trip of a lifetime to one of the most iconic New Zealand attractions in an idyllic location, all in just one day from Auckland. See how this beautiful piece of farmland has been transformed into the Shire from Middle Earth.Our simply magical and enchanting tour takes place over 8 hours and with the insight of our highly knowledgeable local tour guide, it truly will be a day to remember. No trip to New Zealand’s North Island is complete without a visit to this iconic attraction, so don’t hesitate to book your trip with us as our tours fill up quickly! Take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit Holes, The Mill and the Green Dragon Inn. Afterwards visit the Shire Store, which features an extensive selection of souvenirs to remind you of your visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Inclusions: Beverage at The Green Dragon, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Local taxes, Knowledgeable tour guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By 144cinematicc

Absolute knowledgable & friendly guide with excellent photography skills for the best interest of my tour experience on a stunning day, it’s simply incredible! The effort of putting a customised plan for a solo trip is beyond what was paid, greatly appreciated. Two big Thumbs-up to David, you are amazing as :))

10. Martinborough Full Day Wine Tour

Talk of the Town Tours
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5.0 based on 23 reviews

Sightseeiing & wine tour. The perfect tour for cruise ship travelers and tourists staying in the City. Join Brian or Anita on this fun and exciting tour to the vineyards of Martinborough to taste the regions exquisite wines and also see and stop at places of beauty on our way. We will drive through the Hutt Valley region. We will visit the Lord of the Rings filming site at the Kaitoke Regional Park and walk across the swing bridge. We stop at the Rimatuka  Lookout. You will enjoy wine tasting at three vineyards and enjoy a platter style lunch at one of the vineyards You will walk through the historic township of Greytown where the main street is lined with Victorian colonial architecture. The town also has a  number of boutique and quirky local stores such as art and craft shops . Coffee and tea stop at Grand Old Hotel Visit C'est Cheese in Featherston where you can taste or purchase from an impressive range of unique NZ .

Inclusions: Wine tasting fees, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Lunch

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Reviewed By wherethefukami

Had a fantastic trip to Martinbourgh with Brian. Went to some good wineries and had a really nice lunch at Colombo. Pick up and drop off from the hotel. Value for money!! Comfortable modern Mercedes van

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