New Zealand Activities

by stephmylifetravel

Below are the additional, paid activities available for you to do on the New Zealand tour. The descriptions are below, with links to the company website. There are a lot of activities included in the tour, and free activities available too – so you do not need to book into any of these. They are mostly adventure activities that are really popular in New Zealand!

If you have a budget that you want to stick to, I made this cost calculator spreadsheet which allows you to check and uncheck activities and it will calculate the cost of them. It shows the price in NZD, EUR, GBP and AUD.

You can book most of these when you arrive, except ones that I have mentioned explicitly in the text below that I need numbers for. But if you want to make sure you can get booked in for the activity then you can request it in advance. The prices are cost price direct from the operator of the activity, and the money is paid to the operator. But don’t book this independently as the guide

All of these activities are available during our tour. However, some are weather-dependent and can be cancelled if the weather changes. Please make sure you take out insurance for your chosen activities! If you have any questions, just email me or ask in the Whatsapp chat.

 

Coromandel 

  • Hahei Boat Tour ($125NZD) Link
      • The Hahei Explorer is an hour long, travels up to 14 km, and takes you to coastal islands of the marine reserve, reefs, massive sea caves, and bays, including the world-famous Cathedral Cove. The magnificence of this natural volcanic scenery is legendary and the approach by sea, combined with an insightful yet relaxed commentary, further enhances the experience. During the journey, marine life is all around and can be experienced close up because the boat is right in amongst the natural scenery. Dolphins, seals, and little blue penguins are magical when they take time out of their busy schedules to visit us in the bay.
  • Kayaking ($165NZD) Link
      • The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve opens up a sea kayaking paradise full of beaches, islands, and rock gardens just waiting to be explored. With modern sea kayaking equipment and qualified guides, No previous kayaking experience is required as their tours are tailored to suit all ages and abilities. Paddle through sea caves, interact with the local marine life, and discover the thrill of kayak sailing with the wind on your back. To top it off, you will then land at Cathedral Cove, where you will be treated to world-famous cappuccinos and hot chocolates right on the beach.
  • Chilling on the beach when the water is bubbling (free) link
      • Within two hours on either side of low tide, visitors flock to the usually deserted Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand. We will head to the beach and make our own hot spring pool.
      • This 45-minute Te Pare Historic Reserve walkway starts from the south end of Pa Road and ends at Hereheretaura Point. The first part of the walk goes through old big pōhutukawa trees. From there, it runs above the southeast end of the beach to a spectacular cliff-edge view to the east. The track then climbs a set of steps to the grassy point and historic Hereheretaura pā site.
    • Surfing ($85 NZD for a lesson, $60 for board & wetsuit rental for 2 hours) Link
      • If you feel like surfing, rent a board or take a lesson here. 

Rotorua 

  • Polynesian Spa ($45) Link
    • Enjoy a wonderful fusion of hot mineral spring bathing, spa therapies and lake views in a picturesque, tranquil setting overlooking Lake Rotorua. Polynesian Spa is New Zealand’s leading international spa, providing a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. Relax and rejuvenate with calming hot pools, or have a massage.
  • White Water Rafting (from $125, 120kg weight limit) Link
    • Try white water rafting on the Kaituna River, taking on the 7-meter Tutea Falls – the highest commercially rafted waterfall. This is a 50-minute ride down 14 rapids in a water jungle canyon. Very popular with adrenaline junkies!
  • Canopy Zip Line Tours ($189) Maximum weight 110kg Link
    • The Rotorua Canopy experience includes a network of ziplines, suspended swingbridges, spiral staircases, treetop platforms, forest trails, and iconic features including a suspended cliff walkway and 18-metre abseil. Immerse yourself in this breathtaking country the way it once was and hear the inimitable birdsong of New Zealand native birds in their natural habitat.
  • Mitai Maori Village ($169 or $139)
    • Experience Maori culture and traditions in an immersive adventure designed to take participants on a meaningful exploration of the core intrinsic elements of Māori culture. You can watch cultural performances like Wero, Pōwhiri (Traditional Māori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Mōteatea (traditional chant), Poi, and the Haka. Learn about ancestral weapons, visit the sacred spring and have a buffet lunch or dinner. 
  • Skyline Rotorua ($78) Link
    • The best way to see the most spectacular views in Rotorua. Take a ride in an 8-seater gondola, the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and enjoy a 487-metre journey up the side of Mt. Ngongotaha. Once up top, you can take in the scenery or select from one of the 3 exciting trails downhill on a luge, through twists and turns to a backdrop of dramatic scenery, and down through Redwood Forest.
  • Mt Tarawera Hike ($209) Link
    • Mt Tarawera is infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886 which created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu, at the same time destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces. This fully guided hiking experience encompasses the unique landscape and history of the area. Each journey begins with an off-road 4×4 experience through nthe ative New Zealand bush, transporting you to the crater’s edge.
  • Zorbing ($45) Link
    • ZORB Rotorua was created by the original developers of ZORBing, and is the world’s largest downhill ball rolling park. There’s multiple slopes and tracks you can choose from. 
  • Wai-O-Tapu (Free, included) Link
    • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland features some of the most picturesque landscapes within the thermal highway of Rotorua and is a must-see for all visitors, especially when Lady Knox Geyser erupts on cue throughout the day.Walk at your own pace and absorb the unique features including the world-famous champagne pool, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters, and sinter terrace formations. The natural bush setting adds another dimension to the experience as does the daily presentation of the Lady Knox Geyser.

Taupo

  • Tongoriro Crossing ($130) Link
    • The Tongariro Crossing track ventures between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe in the Tongariro National Park and is considered one of New Zealand’s greatest hikes. The track includes moonscapes, scoured volcanic rocks, lava flows frozen in time, mountain springs and brightly coloured emerald lakes with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. The Tongariro National Park is part of the UNESCO dual World Heritage reserve and was the first in the world to receive the Cultural World-Heritage status. This unique experience is a must-do for any keen hiker whilst they are in New Zealan
  • Bungy & Swing (from $240) Link
    • A 47-metre bungy or swing over toe Waikato RIver. You can do a solo or tandem swing and reach speeds of over 70kph as you swing over the beautiful blue waters of the Waikato River. Or try your luck at New Zealand’s highest water ‘touch’ bungy, unless you want to be fully submerged because they’ll do that too!
  • Skydiving ($279) Link
    • Taupo Tandem Skydiving offers a skydive experience like no other, a ride in a limo and a pink plane to take you to altitude, this is certainly a unique and exciting experience to remember. With stunning views over Taupo, this sky dive is a must-do. When you take on this heart-pounding challenge, you will get to make the jump from Taupo Tandem Skydiving’s unique pink aircraft at 9,000 ft, 12,000ft, or 15,000ft and freefall at insane speeds of up to 200km/hr. Upon your flight to altitude, you will have the opportunity to witness breathtaking views over the stunning Lake Taupo, and New Zealand’s most iconic volcanoes, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro.
  • Parasailing ($169) Link
    •  Fly up to 1000 feet for stunning views of Lake Taupo.All flights are 12 minutes long and come with an optional ‘freefall’ decent. Enjoy an optional refreshing dip in the clear lake waters with the Taupo Parasail dip near the end of your flight. Rise into the air behind the boat and enjoy the peaceful silence of the skies. Take in the panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the tranquil waters below while you drift through the clouds. Up to 3 people can parasail together. The combined weight restriction is min 70 kg – max 200 kg
  • Jet Boating Huka Falls ($145) Link
    • Experience crazy stunts in the rushing white water at the base of the spectacular falls – this truly is an activity you can’t miss.The Huka Falls jet operates on the Waikato River where you’ll get to marvel at the unique sight of clouds of steam that rise from where Taupo’s hot streams meet the river. Feel the wind rush through your hair as your jet reaches insane speeds weaving through the river’s narrow canals, piloted by your skilled, experienced driver. You’ll get to enjoy dizzying manoeuvres as your driver plays in the white water of the falls – this is a must-do while in Taupo.
  • Sail Lake Taupo ($55) Link
    • Sail the Southern Hemisphere’s largest freshwater lake in style, aboard a classic sailing yacht with Sail Barbary.  Learn about Maori stories and history that shaped New Zealand while you cruise through Lake Taupo’s calm waters. You’ll get to cruise along the lake to the incredible 14-metre-high Maori Rock Carvings in Mine Bay, where we can dip in the bay’s gorgeous clear waters. Relax and sit back while your skipper tells you all about the history of Taupo and the Maori Rock Carvings. We can choose between the following times: 
      • Day Cruise 10:30am and 2:00pm:  includes complimentary hot chocolate, tea, or coffee. Licensed & BYO
      • Evening Cruise 5pm: includes complimentary snacks, wine, beer or cider or hot cocoa, tea, or coffee. Licensed & BYO
  • Wairakei Thermal Pools ($25) Link
    • Enjoy a luxurious soak in the natural geothermal area that is Wairakei Terraces. These thermal springs, surrounded by mud and silica waters have been used for hundreds of years by Maori for healing and wellness. Your mind, body and soul will feel thoroughly relaxed and calm after your soak. At Wairakei Terraces, pools of varying temperatures have been strategically positioned below the silica terraces and waterfall, taking full advantage of the geothermal water flow drawn to the earth’s surface from 1.5 kilometres underground.
  • Mt Tauhara Climb (Free)  Link
    • This 3-hour hike to the top of Mt Tauhara is popular with locals and visitors alike. The 2.8km trail climbs to the summit at 1,088 metres with panoramic views over Lake Taupo and the central North Island. If hiking the Tongariro Crossing is not for you, then you must do this whilst in Taupo. As the climb does include some challenging and steep gradients, please ensure to wear appropriate footwear.

Raglan via Waitomo

  • Glow Worm Cave Tour ($96) Link
    • Take a boat trip through a succession of chambers to find speleothems, fossil remains of extinct moa, and cathedrals. Have the opportunity to get up close and personal with glowworms in their natural habitat. You will even have the opportunity to take photos within the cave, something that you will not be able to do elsewhere in New Zealand. Duration: 150 Minutes
    • A 2km scenic drive across a farm.
    • A short spectacular walk to the Mangawhitikau Glowworm Cave.
    • Up to an hour in our glowworm cave including a 20min glowworm boat ride and some photography.
    • A quick break for refreshments, then another scenic walk to the Cave of the Spirit.
    • The Cave of the Spirit which has cave decorations and fossils, a van ride back to our office.
  • Black Water Rafting ($188) Link
    • Float down an underground river, slip into fast waters, jump off waterfalls and take in the magic of the glow worm studded Ruakuri Cave.  you’ll enter the cave through a hole in the rock and be straight into the underground waters. Spend your time underground weaving around and climbing over rocks, jumping off not-too-high waterfalls, and floating beneath a sky of glow worms. Takes approx 3 hours, there are showers and a cafe on site. 
  • Ruakuri Reserve Walk (Free) Link
    •  listed as one of the eight best walks on the North Island. Discover a forested gorge, natural sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches on this spectacular loop walk. The track follows the stream and then winds up around a network of limestone bluffs and outcrops before descending down to the Ruakuri Natural Bridge viewing platform.The entrance to the viewing platform is dark, so take care when walking down the steps. The platform extends out over a large cavernous tunnel where you can see large speleothems (stalactites and stalagmites) and a stream running along the bottom.

Lake Tekapo

  • Church of The Good Shepherd (Free)
    • One of New Zealand’s most famous and photographed icons is the Church Of The Good Shepherd on the stunning lakefront of Lake Tekapo.This charming church holds a special place in the hearts of locals. It was built in memory of the pioneers of the Mackenzie, from local stone gathered from within 5 miles of the site, with the aim to simply be part of the landscape. It is a treasured heritage building and is also a place of worship.
  • Mount John Summit Walk (Free) Link
    • The Mount John Summit Walk allows you to walk around the summit of Mount John in order to truly experience 360-degree views of the Mackenzie basin, the stunning Lake Tekapo, and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The trail through the forest is spacious and well-graded making it negotiable for almost anyone to wander up through the pines covering the hillside. Finish your walk by soaking lakeside at Tekapo Springs.
  • Tekapo Bike Hire ($20) Link
    • Rent a bike and discover the local trails and stunning views along the shoreline of Lake Tekapo. Both e-bikes and traditional push bikes are available to rent.
  • Tekapo Hot Springs ($37) Link
    • Relax in hot water in an alpine environment 720 metres above sea level. Each pool offers a different view; the brilliant blue of Lake Tekapo, sparse golden mountain ranges, pine forest, and the pure blue skies of the Mackenzie Region. We would go here at night to star gaze as we soak. 

 

Queenstown

  • Milford Sound Nature Cruise (Free, Included in tour)
    • Considered the 8th wonder of the world, the Milford Sound is one of those natural environments that has to be seen to be believed. Experience the natural wonders of Milford Sound on board a Southern Discoveries Cruise. The towering mountain ranges encompass the beautiful fiord and Southern Discoveries provide the most luxurious ways to see it by boat.
    • Cruise the full length of the fiord in comfort on modern, spacious catamarans with comfortable indoor seating and large, tall windows for panoramic viewing. Your cruise captain will take you up to waterfalls, and provide commentary all whilst you marvel at the sights and enjoy a hot drink. Enjoy a large and wide open outdoor, upper-level deck for excellent wildlife viewing including seals, dolphins, and penguins when in season.
  • Queenstown Walks (Free, optional activity) Link
    • If you want to get out in nature and see Queenstown, there are some great short hikes and walks in the area. Link is above with some options. We can pick our fave, and head out for a few hours. 
  • Wine tasting and tour at a local Vineyard (Free Optional Activity) Link
      • Visit a local vineyard and try 3 wines in this wine tasting. We need to confirm numbers in advance, and this will affect your ability to do extreme activities. The winery is 30 minutes from the town, and we will be gone for a few hours. You will not be able to do some activities after drinking. So please check out the list of activities first and then confirm this if you would like to do it. 
    • Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown ($39.86) Link 
      • A 90-minute cruise on Lake Wakatipu in the centre of Queenstown. Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy expert commentary from our friendly and professional team, sharing fascinating stories about the lake’s history, geology, and legends. The link above shows the price as higher, but I found a place to book it for $39 per person, so I will book it here once we have the numbers. 
    • Kayaking on Lake Wakatipu ($40 for kayak hire) Link
      • Instead of taking a boat trip on the lake, try kayaking instead. 
  • Quad bike and Buggy Tours ($259) Link
  • set out for Queenstown’s off-road terrain aboard a sports quad led by an expert guide. You’ll bump along dirt bike tracks with creek crossings, and hill climbs boasting spectacular views from the Shotover River up into the surrounding mountains of the Wakatipu Basin. Rides are 1 hour long and are tailor-made for small groups. There will need to be a few of us interested in this for it to happen. 
  • Tandem Paragliding & Hang Gliding ($32) Link
      • Try a foot-launched flight from Coronet Peak, located just 20 minutes drive from the centre of Queenstown. Let the SkyTrek courtesy shuttle pick you up from town and drive you to one of our launch areas ranging from 3800 feet to 5500 feet high. The highest commercial take-off in New Zealand. Your pilot will gently guide you through the steps required to become airborne with us so you can enjoy the breathtaking views from Coronet Peak across the Queenstown Surrounds. The friendly and professional team of tandem pilots are highly experienced and will ensure your experience will be one to remember!
    • White Water Rafting ($299) Link
      • Minimum weight 40kg. Maximum weight 120kg. 
      • Head to the iconic Shotover River for a whitewater rapid adventure. Start with an unforgettable coach trip through Skippers Canyon, famous for its exciting cliff edges, enough to get your adrenaline pumping before we hit the water. Experience grade 3–5 whitewater rapids in one of the most scenic environments in the world. The rapids can change daily, but rest assured, our guides are expertly trained and have a keen sense of adventure. They will guide you through canyons and help you navigate rapids. To finish, you’ll ride through the famous 170m Oxenbridge tunnel. You can have a hot shower afterwards.
  • Canyoning ($249) Link
      • Explore two of the most renowned canyons in New Zealand by zipline, abseiling down waterfalls, plunging into natural pools, and floating down narrow passageways. The Queenstown Experience is suitable for all abilities and has a little bit of everything packed into an action-filled half-day experience. The Routeburn Experience is a little more challenging than Queenstown, with higher jumps and abseils.
  • Skydiving  ($345) Link / Bungy Jumping ($320) Link
    • Skydiving
      • IMPORTANT INFO: Minimum weight of 40kg. All persons 95kgs or more are subject to Tandem Master assessment at the drop zone.
      • Do a jump to 9000, 12000, or 15000 ft over Queenstown’s mountains and lakes.
    • Bungy:
      • IMPORTANT INFO: Single jumper weight – between 35kg to 160kg. Tandem jumper weight – Tandem Jumpers must not exceed a combined weight of 235kgs.
      • There are two bungy options, Nevis and Karawao Bridge. Read about both on the link above.
  • Shotover Canyon Swing ($295) Link / Nevis Swing ($325) Link
    • IMPORTANT INFO: Maximum solo weight of 160kgs, Maximum combined tandem weight of 180kgs Not suitable for expectant mothers.
    • There are two different swings you can do in Shotover or Nevis. Details are on the links above!
  • Horse Riding – Walter Peak Station ($249) Link
    • Unwind on a scenic horse trek through Queenstown’s stunning scenery at Walter Peak High Country Farm. Your time in the saddle starts with some time onboard. Take a Lake Whakatipu cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw to disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm before meeting your horse and guide. This experienced guide will take you on a horse trek across rolling high country farmland to a lookout offering spectacular views of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The riding is easy, the scenery incredible and the memories enduring. Great family fun, this trip is more suited to first-time or novice riders. After returning to the stables you’ll enjoy a delicious morning or afternoon tea at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant. Then it’s time to explore the glorious gardens and farmyard before heading back to Queenstown on board the TSS Earnslaw, our iconic vintage steamship providing the perfect relaxing end to an exciting trip.
  • K Jet ($139) Link / Shotover Jet ($169) Link / Funyak ($495) Link
    • If you want to try a jet boat, you have two different options. Read the details on the links above. Here’s also a funyak option, which includes a jetboat, 4WD journey and then a kayaking experience on the river.
  • Ziplining ($159) Link
    • The Moa-4 Line tour from Ziptrek Ecotours is a fun and interactive way to see Queenstown. Likewise, their Kea-6 Line will give you a new perspective of Queenstown as you zip your way down to the base. Offering stunning views across Lake Wakatipu to the Remarkables Mountain Range as you zipline your way down the mountain. The Moa-4 Line comprises four ziplines, starting and finishing at the top of the Skyline gondola. The Moa tour is designed to start low and slow and gradually build your confidence as it gets progressively longer, higher, and faster. On the other hand the Kea 6- Line is the ride that descends 30 storeys at speeds of up to 70kph. This tour is perfect for everyone, especially those seeking a higher adrenaline factor.
  • Gondola & Luge ($64) Link
    • Take a ride with the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak and immerse yourself in the panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. When you get to the top, discover a host of activities on offer. Head to the Luge Top Station, hop on the purpose-built Luge carts, and take an exciting downhill ride on over 800 metres of banked corners, tunnels, and dippers. The purpose-built tracks offer you a thrilling ride down one of the most scenic slopes in Queenstown.

 

Franz Josef

  • Scenic Glacier Heli Flight ($350) Link
    • A scenic tour through the Helicopter Line is a great way to view it from the air. You’ll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef Glacier and experience the solitude of a landing in this natural alpine wonderland.
  • Kayak or Kayak& Walk ($149 / $169) Link / Link
    • Enjoy exclusive access to the custom-built rainforest trail within the Okarito Kiwi Conservation area. On this kayak tour you will learn about the kiwi conservation, spot native birdlife and experience the pristine wilderness of the West Coast in a truly unique and remote part of Franz Josef Glacier. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee along the way, prepared by your kayak tour guide.
  • Wildlife Centre ($31) Link
    • The West Coast Wildlife Centre is one of the most extensive Kiwi Captive Rearing facilities in New Zealand and is helping to save the critically endangered Rowi and Haast Tokoeka Kiwi from extinction. Get up close to a real kiwi bird here, where you can opt to include a behind-the-scenes viewing of the kiwi incubation, rearing facility, and the Nocturnal House. The self-guided tour will take about 30 minutes. As well as the indoor attraction, there’s also the Wild West storytelling old hut to explore.
  • Jade Carving ($85) Link
    • Learn the mythology and technique behind traditional Maori carving, ans leave with your own hand-made necklace.
  • Heli Hike Fox Glacier ($699) Link
    • The Heli Hike trip accesses & explores a part of Fox Glacier where its forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. Experience a thrilling helicopter flight over the lower icefall pinnacles, take in views of the majestic upper icefall & spectacular Victoria Falls (the melt river from the hidden Victoria Glacier), before landing on a remote part of the glacier. Follow ice steps cut by your guide as you explore the amazing formations and ice caves that are only seen here. Fox. Glacier Guiding provide leather boots, socks, crampons & walking poles. Each departure is a true voyage of exploration. There are so many changing features that the guides always find something new. Weather permitting, ice time is up to 3 hours.
  • Franz Josef Quad Biking ($220) Link
    • Join a guided off-road adventure tour! Journey across the riverbed and through the rainforest on our thrilling tracks. Ride a quad bike or 3-seater buggy through a beautiful Jurassic rainforest, splash through rivers and explore an ancient glacier riverbed.
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