Small Budget, Big Adventures Among the Kiwis
A self-drive tour accessible between the two islands, with Maori immersion and authentic encounters with local residents.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,750/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
budget
Travelers
Solo, Couple, With friends
The spirit of travel
"Small Budget and Great Adventures" offers you a 14-day self-drive tour between Christchurch and Auckland, a perfect compromise between discovering the breathtaking landscapes of Aotearoa, comfort and controlled budget. The itinerary combines nights in hotels, motels, and "flashbackers" (superior backpackers) in double or twin rooms with private bathrooms, and a unique experience staying with locals.
This journey takes you through both islands of Nouvelle-Zélande, with included excursions, such as visiting the Wai o Tapu geothermal park, a Maori cultural evening accompanied by a hangi dinner, as well as immersion in the kiwi conservation program at the National Kiwi Hatchery. Furthermore, a day on Waiheke Island with ferry and Hop on Hop off bus pass will allow you to discover the vineyards and beautiful beaches of the island.
This tour is ideal for those who wish to explore Nouvelle-Zélande in depth while respecting a budget, while enjoying comfort and authentic moments in contact with locals.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Christchurch!
Upon your arrival in Christchurch, a shared shuttle takes you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Located on the east coast, Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island, with approximately 380,000 inhabitants. Nicknamed the "Garden City," it blends green spaces, Victorian influences, and a multicultural atmosphere.
Depending on your arrival time, discover the botanical garden, the art gallery, cafés and restaurants, or explore the city by tram and along the Avon River. You can also explore the city center, which was transformed following the 2011 earthquake.
On the way to Kaikoura: marine wildlife and breathtaking landscapes
This morning, pick up your rental car and head north. National Road 1 crosses the Canterbury Plains and the Waipara Vineyards. After approximately 150 km, the sea appears. As you drive along the coast, you may be able to spot seals and dolphins. A boat trip departing from Kaikōura allows you, if you wish, to observe them more closely or swim with the dolphins.
At Kaikōura, between sea and mountains, sperm whales frequent the underwater canyon. The town is also known for its crayfish. Discover the peninsula to observe seals or take the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway to enjoy the view.
From Kaikoura to Picton: between beaches, vineyards and harbour atmosphere
Enjoy Kaikōura a bit longer before heading north. Drive along the ocean for several kilometers, between coastal panoramas and viewpoints, until Blenheim, known as New Zealand's wine capital.
Continue to Picton, a busy port town animated by ferries connecting the North and South Islands.
Stay for two nights in Picton.
Discovering Picton: hiking, vineyards and marine wildlife
A former whaling port, Picton sits between the hills and waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Ferries from Wellington bring activity to its port.
Take the Tirohanga Track for a 45-minute hike through the forest, with views over Picton, Waikawa and the Marlborough Sounds. You can return by the same route or descend on the other side to reach Picton via its streets.
Other options are available to you: take a boat to discover the Marlborough Sounds and hike part of the Queen Charlotte Track (not included), cycle through the vineyards or take a dolphin-watching cruise, or even swim with them.
Cruise to Wellington: culture and breathtaking landscapes
In Picton, board a 3 hour 30 minute ferry crossing to the North Island. The ferry passes through Queen Charlotte Sound and the Cook Strait before arriving in Wellington. Its lounges, restaurants and observation decks allow you to enjoy the scenery during the journey.
Nicknamed "Windy Wellington", New Zealand's cultural capital extends around its harbour and over the surrounding hills. Climb Mount Victoria for panoramic views, then stroll through the city centre, among restaurants, cafés and galleries. You can also discover Parliament, the Te Papa museum and the botanic garden.
From Wellington to Mangaweka: on the road of volcanoes and puns
From Wellington, follow State Highway 1 along the Kapiti coast, then pass through Levin and Bulls towards the volcanic region of Tongariro Park.
At Bulls, shops and public services have fun with the town's name: the police station is "Const-a-bull", the church "Forgive-a-bull", the medical centre "Cure-a-bull", the town hall "Social-a-bull", the tourist office "Inform-a-bull" and the public toilets "Reliev-a-bull". The town is twinned with Cowes, in England.
At Mangaweka, take Parapara Road to Mairenui Farm. You can meet your New Zealand hosts there and exchange about rugby and French gastronomy.
From Taihape to Tongariro: Between Volcanoes and Breathtaking Landscapes
Mangaweka → Tongariro National Park
Follow State Highway 1 north to Taihape, the rubber boot capital, then pass through Waiouru, home to the National Army Museum. You then enter the Tongariro National Park, dominated by three volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu.
Across its 80,000 hectares, the park features emerald lakes, ancient lava flows, steaming craters, coloured silica terraces and alpine gardens.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing tramp requires 6 to 8 hours of walking. If your time or fitness level doesn't allow you to do it, other walks will be suggested to you.
From Taupo to Rotorua: nature, relaxation and Maori culture
Tongariro National Park → Rotorua
After the desert landscapes surrounding the volcanoes, the road crosses native forests before reaching Lake Taupo, the largest in New Zealand, larger than Lake Geneva. Nicknamed the world capital of trout fishing, Taupo offers activities on land and on the lake, in every season.
Stop at the Huka Falls, then visit the geothermal park of Wai-O-Tapu and its colorful landscapes (visit included). You then continue to Rotorua, a thermal city and Maori cultural center.
Accommodation for two nights in Rotorua.
Rotorua: Maori culture, geothermal activity and relaxation
Rotorua is a center of Maori culture and an active geothermal region. The city borders a lake formed in a caldera whose last eruption dates back 25,000 years.
According to your preferences, take a stroll from the lakeside to the Government Gardens passing through the Ohinemutu Maori village, or wander through the redwood forest. The region, surrounded by lakes, mountains, volcanoes and forests, is also suitable for mountain biking, rafting and summer luge. Its hot water pools invite relaxation.
The day includes a visit to the Kiwi National Hatchery, a conservation center dedicated to the kiwi. In the evening, head to Te Puia for a show of songs, dances, including the haka, and Maori legends.
Heading to the Coromandel Peninsula: beaches and spectacular landscapes
Rotorua → Coromandel Peninsula
Take the road to the Coromandel Peninsula, between dense forests, rugged coastlines and white sand beaches. At Waihi, take a break at the viewpoint overlooking the gold mine before continuing to Hahei.
Discover then Hot Water Beach : at low tide, natural hot springs allow you to dig a basin in the sand to enjoy the warm water.
Stay for two nights in Hahei.
Exploration of the Coromandel Peninsula: nature and outdoor activities
Approximately 50 km east of Auckland, in the Hauraki Gulf, the Coromandel Peninsula blends villages, hills and temperate rainforests. Sparsely populated, it particularly attracts Auckland residents who own a holiday home there.
Take this day to choose from the outdoor activities offered in the region: yachting, scuba diving, sea fishing, hiking, kayaking or swimming on sandy beaches.
You can also reach Cathedral Cove by boat or kayak, or stroll on Hot Water Beach, known for its natural hot springs. Remember to check the tide times before visiting.
Auckland
Coromandel Peninsula → Auckland
Two routes are available to reach Auckland. The first takes a scenic road through the village of Coromandel, once frequented by gold seekers, then follows the coast to Thames. The pohutukawas, native trees with red flowers, typically bloom between December and January. The second route passes through Thames and the interior of the peninsula to reach Auckland more directly.
As you approach the city, traffic becomes heavier and the Sky Tower, nicknamed "the syringe", appears on the horizon. Depending on your flight time, discover Auckland the same day or the day after next: Mount Eden and its panoramic views, the city museum, the Parnell neighbourhood, or Mission Bay and its promenade to the marina. You can also cross the bridge to Devonport to admire the bay from its two peaks.
At the end of the day, return your rental car in the city centre, then enjoy Auckland on foot.
Accommodation for two nights in Auckland.
Relaxation at Waiheke: wines, beaches and hiking just minutes from Auckland
Nicknamed the Auckland is the largest city in Nouvelle-Zélande. Its large population of Pacific origin also makes it considered the capital of Polynesia.
For this last day, we invite you to join Waiheke by ferry. Known for its vineyards, the island can be discovered at your own pace thanks to the Hop on Hop off bus. You can also enjoy its hiking trails, beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
At the end of the day, return to Auckland on one of the ferries that run until the evening.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Optional activities (which we can arrange booking at no additional cost)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- A change in the GST rate or the introduction of a new government tax
- Possible supplements for public holidays and special events
- Petrol, possible tolls and parking fees
- New Zealand entry fees (NZeTA and IVL)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Included
- Accommodation in hotels, motels and "flashbackers" (superior backpackers) in double or twin rooms, with private bathrooms, based on the establishments mentioned in this program, or similar. And one night in a host family home.
- Breakfasts in Picton (2 nights) and with a local family (1 night)
- Shared shuttle on arrival in Christchurch, from the airport, and on the last day in Auckland to reach the airport.
- The rental of a recent compact car, from Day 2 to Day 12, from Christchurch to Auckland, with unlimited mileage, 2 drivers, and comprehensive insurance with no excess. No car on the 1st day in Christchurch and the last two days in Auckland.
- The ferry crossing between the two islands
- The following activities: entry to Wai o tapu geothermal park, Maori cultural evening with traditional hangi dinner, visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery to observe rare kiwis, the ferry to Waiheke Island, the Hop on Hop off bus pass to visit Waiheke.
- Taxes (GST 15%)
- Access to your program on a free application and without internet connection
- Our on-site assistance in your language in case of need
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to New Zealand for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter New Zealand, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without a visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays.
To date, this exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
NZeTA Travel Authorization
Before your arrival, you must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA), issued by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.
This authorization is required even without a visa and must be obtained before boarding your flight. It is electronically linked to your passport. During your application, you will also need to pay the International Visitor Levy (IVL).
To submit your application, you will need the following information:
passport information
a recent photograph
flight details
address of your first accommodation in New Zealand
The NZeTA application must be submitted online or via the official app at least 72 hours before departure. A digital confirmation will be sent via email and may be requested when passing through immigration.
Strict health and customs rules
New Zealand applies particularly stringent phytosanitary and customs controls upon arrival. It is prohibited or strictly regulated to bring in many food products, plants, animal products, or outdoor equipment (hiking boots, camping gear, etc.).
Any item subject to declaration must be declared on the arrival card. Non-compliance with these rules can result in heavy fines.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport as well as an individual NZeTA covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire with the New Zealand embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Before traveling to New Zealand, you must obtain an NZeTA authorization (approximately 17 NZD) and pay the IVL tourist tax (35 NZD). The authorization is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries of up to 90 days per stay. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from New Zealand. Entry conditions vary depending on your nationality. Please check with the New Zealand consular authorities in your country before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €250 and €400 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€1500-2200 return) are additional. Campervan rental is a popular and often economical option.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — South Island
A Nomadays advisor will get back to you to refine this project — itinerary, dates, budget, wishes — and propose a tailor-made version suited to your trip.
