Overland Explorer

If you love the outdoors and want to see the best of our country in under 3 weeks then this is the perfect option for you. You will get the chance to try some of the best hikes in the country, cycle through jaw dropping landscapes and try a catalog of adventure activities.

Why Choose Flying Kiwi...?

1. MORE EXPERIENCE = BETTER TRAVEL OPTIONS...

Flying Kiwi is the original New Zealand tour company. We are the experts with 30 years' experience in conducting tours of the highest quality and thousands of very, very satisfied customers. You can be guaranteed that our team will provide a professional and enjoyable experience of a lifetime.

2. MORE PEACE OF MIND WITH GUARANTEED DEPARTURES...

Once you are booked you are going! ALL our summer tours (Oct-Apr) are guaranteed departures. This gives you complete peace of mind and enables you to plan and look forward to your trip - trips do fill fast though so get in quick.

3. MORE NATIONAL PARKS....

We have a license with the Department of Conservation that enables us to visit, and stay in, places other tours can't access. We ensure our tours give you time to experience New Zealand's best national parks too, including Paparoa, Abel Tasman, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Tongariro and Fiordland.

4. MORE CHANCES TO GENUINELY GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK...

There are a number of World famous highlights on any trip to New Zealand - Milford Sound, Queentown, Rotorua to name a few and we make sure to experience the best these spots have to offer. However, what makes our trips totally unique is exploring the lesser known spots that other tour groups don't visit. Whether it's a secret glow-worm walk at night, a lush rainforest-fringed pool for a dip, a bike ride along deserted roads hugging the coast or a local cafe that serves quite possibly the best muffins in New Zealand we have found the best secret spots - we know you will love them just try not to tell too many others!

5. MORE ACCOMMODATION BY LAKES, MOUNTAINS AND OCEANS...

Rather than wake up in a hostel dorm we wake up to amazing views, fresh air and away from the crowds. By staying in these carefully selected sites you get to experience amazing sunrises, spectacular sunsets, campfires, sleeping to the sound of the ocean, morning dips, lakeside dining to name a few. There are camping and cabin accommodation options (so something for everyone) and we do occasionally use hostels (3 on the entire 28-day trip) to give you access to the bustling city centres.

6. MORE TASTY AND HEALTHY MEALS...

Our trips involve a great deal of activity and we appreciate the importance of good food. We usually offer breakfast, lunch and dinner which saves you time and money. With an average meal out in NZ costing around $30 you'll save a fortune compared to other tour companies.

7. MORE CYCLE OPTIONS...

With bikes on board you have the chance to cycle as much, or as little, as you want. We cover a huge range of rides along the coast, by lakes, through mountain landscapes, downhill, uphill and even across hill - there is something for everyone and every fitness level.

8. MORE HIKES AND ACTIVITY OPTIONS (+LOADS OF FREE STUFF)...

We offer more hikes and activity options than any other tour company. That gives you more choice every day to try the hikes you fancy and the activities you have always wanted to try. Everything is optional and there are always free alternatives. We also include a number of the activities free of charge such as hot pools, Wai-O-Tapu thermals, wine tasting, scenic ferry crossing (both directions) and more.

9. MORE FLEXIBILITY...

Our tours are designed to fit around you. We aren't a traditional tour - you choose the activities you want to do, you choose the style of accommodation you want and you can even take extended breaks along the way - Flying Kiwi is the perfect combination of independent travel and touring convenience.

10. MORE VALUE FOR MONEY...

Quite simply our trips are unbeatable. With transport, accommodation, most meals and use of sports equipment included you won't find a better value tour. Our tours add up to around $160 NZD per day which is a great measure to compare with other options (don't forget a meal out in NZ averages around $30 for starters and bike hire starts at approx. $35 per day).

11. WE SPEND 2-3 NIGHTS IN THE BEST LOCATIONS....

Our main tour is longer than others for a reason - we want this to be the trip of a lifetime. Extra nights in the best locations ensure you can enjoy and relax - simple!

12. FREE HIGHLIGHTS...

Some operators may list these as free activities specific to their tour but as Kiwis are such a generous bunch all those listed below are free for everyone!

Tongariro Crossing (bus transfer not included), glow worm walks, Te Papa museum, Wellington Botanical Gardens, heaps of free hikes, seal spotting, Lake Matheson mirror lake, Tekapo Church of Good Shepherd, Kauri forest walks, Huka Falls, Waitomo museum, Hokitika greenstone factory, dig your own thermal pool on Hot Water beach (we provide the spades!), explore the Bay of Islands region and more.

13. PLACES WE VISIT ARE...
- Stunning Bay of Islands
- Golden beaches of Coromandel
- Thermal mud pools of Rotorua
- Cruise the Marlborough Sounds
- Character cities of Dunedin, Christchurch and Auckland
- Infamous Mount Cook
- Adrenalin rush of Queenstown
- Chilling Glaciers
- Natural beauty of Kaikoura
- The spectacular Milford Sound
- Real Lord of the Rings country
- The lush vineyards and hilly pastures of Picton and Marlborough
- Cultural and historical treasures
- New Zealand’s World Heritage Sites
- The nation's capital - Wellington
- The wildlife spotting paradise of Otago Peninsula
- Numerous remote locations that other tours and tourists don't reach

14. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM...

- Superb cycle rides (for all levels)
- Excellent hikes (for all levels)
- Sea kayaking
- Hobbiton Movie Set tour
- Maori Culture
- Hot pools
- Zipline tours
- Skydiving
- Bungy jumping & giant swings
- White water rafting
- Whale watching (by air or boat)
- Deep sea fishing
- Dolphin swimming
- Horse riding
- Nature tours
- Surfing
- Brewery tours
- Milford Sound boat cruise
- Glow worm tours
- Hang gliding
- Diving
- Parasailing
- Sand boarding

Day 1 : Auckland - Bay of Islands

We leave the City of Sails (Auckland) at 10am heading north to the golden beaches and warm waters of the Bay of Islands. On route we take time for a break, and a quick swim for those that are keen, at beautiful Uretiti beach. It’s a great place to relax and make use of the Frisbee, football and rugby ball on board. We then head to the historically significant town of Paihia, the main gateway for the Bay of Islands before doing a highly recommend mangrove walk to the thundering Haruru waterfalls. Our campsite is nestled next to the river and we will be spending 2 nights here giving you time to explore the best of the Bay. Meals: Dinner Bike Rides: Forest trail rides that will give you views of the Bay of Islands, good exercise and go past the Haruru Waterfalls. Walks and Hikes: A great afternoon walk taking you past mangroves, over boardwalks, through forest before ending at the Haruru Waterfalls. A beautiful walk and highly recommended! Optional Activities: Waitangi Treaty House (Maori culture), twilight kayaking

Meals :Dinner

Day 2 : Bay of Islands

Experience a full day exploring the Bay of Islands and its turquoise waters. This subtropical region is the perfect playground for water lovers and a great place to soak up the sunshine. With a staggering 144 islands, the Bay of Islands offers swimming, sailing, parasailing, dolphin swimming, kayaking plus much more along with some excellent walks in the native forests. This region is also home to some of the oldest European settlements in New Zealand. Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: If not doing an activity hop on a bike to explore Paihia Walks and Hikes: If not doing an activity walk into Paihia or take a trip over to the historic town of Russell Optional Activities: Sailing, fishing, diving, dolphin swimming, kayaking, parasailing, Maori Culture

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 : Bay of Islands - Orewa

Today we cross the top of the north to the giant sand dunes of Opononi for beach fun and optional sand boarding. After time on the dunes we head to Waipoua Forest, home to the giant Kauri trees and a variety of scenic short walks and bike rides. We end the day heading down the Hibiscus Coast to our beachside camp at Orewa. Enjoy a tasty evening meal with a sea view before a spot of star gazing in the crystal-clear skies. The roads around this region pass through forest dominated by huge kauri trees. These tower above you at heights of up to 60 metres with a trunk five or more in diameter. These trees are slow growing and some are over 2000 years old. Beautiful Opononi is an excellent stop with its endless dunes lined by beautiful pohutakawa trees (the New Zealand Christmas tree). Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: Ride through the Waipoua forest and the historic settlement of Donnelleys crossing and later on in the day there's a short casual ride around quiet estuary walkway Walks and Hikes: Enjoy getting up close and personal as you walk through one of New Zealand’s largest remaining protected Kauri tree forests. Optional Activities: Sand boarding

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 : Orewa - Auckland - Hot Water Beach

Orewa is often blessed with a beautiful sunrise over the sea which is well worth the early start to check it out. We then travel the short distance to Auckland where we farewell those finishing their tour and welcome new travellers joining us there. Leaving Auckland at 10am we continue onwards to the Coromandel, renowned for its natural beauty, misty rainforests and pristine white, sandy beaches. Marvel at the views on a beautiful coastal walk or take in the coastline from the water by kayak. Visit the unique and famous Hot Water Beach to dig, then relax, in your own thermal pool! Soak up the breath-taking scenery and cameras ready for spectacular sunsets at our beachside camp. Meals: Dinner Bike Rides: 8km road cycling Walks and Hikes: Stunning coastal walk with views over the Pacific – distances vary Optional Activities: Sea kayaking

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 : Hot Water Beach - Rotorua

After breakfast we start the journey towards the central area of the North Island but before we get there we will explore a little more of the Coromandel Peninsula. We will be driving to the historic goldmining town of Waihi and take a look at the huge working gold mine, Martha’s mine before cyclists get a chance to ride a section of the Huaraki Rail Trail and everyone else will be taken into the Karangahake Gorge for a walk looking into the ‘windows of the past’ of both the mining history and the awesome landscape of the gorge. When everyone is back together we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the gorge before continuing on for our first drop off of the day, Hobbition! Matamata is the gateway town to get to Hobbiton so for those booked on that we’ll drop you here and see you later on in Rotorua. If you’re not going to Hobbtion there are many optional activities in Rotorua including a ziplining eco tour, OGO, Luging or relaxing in a thermal spa! There are also world famous bike trails and walks that take in some of the geothermal features of the area and for the evening you can immerse yourself in Maori culture at the Tamaki Village. There’s a lot to pack into one day but it’ll leave you wanting more! Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Bike Rides: Hauraki Rail Trail and the Whakarewarewa Forest Park Walks and Hikes: The Windows Walk in Karangahake Gorge and short walks in Rotorua Optional Activities: Hobbiton, Tamaki Maori Village, OGO, Luge, hot pools, Zipline Canopy Tour

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 : Rotorua - Taupo

Leave camp for Wai-O-Tapu geothermal Wonderland before continuing on to the impressive Huka Falls. We then head to Taupo, nestled next to one of the largest crater lakes in the World with some great hiking and cycling opportunities. Taupo is also a great place for adventure with heaps of optional activities to choose from. Tonight we enjoy a camp near Tongariro National Park. This region is centred around Lake Taupo, NZ's largest lake at 619sq km - about the size of Singapore! The Lake is in a caldera created by the Taupo supervolcano some 26000 years ago and the area is still considered dormant today with moderate geothermal activity in the area such as the mud pools, hot springs and vents. Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: Ride an awesome single track from Huka Falls stopping in for a quick soak in a natural hot stream on your way into Taupo or grab the bike in the city for a cruisey ride around the edge of the lake. Walks and Hikes: Follow the trail from an iconic waterfall alongside the mighty Waikato River winding past a natural hot spring that you can soak in followed by walking past a bungy jump watching adrenaline junkies dive into the river! Optional Activities: Skydiving, bungy, giant swing, Wai-O-Tapu (free - this one is on us)

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 : Taupo - Kapati Coast

Experience one of NZ’s great walks, The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, rated as the best one day walk in the World . This dual listed World heritage area is set to inspire with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, sparkling rivers, lush rainforests and lunar landscapes. For those that don’t fancy the hike, take on some grade 3 whitewater rafting rapids, cycle, enjoy short walks or relax in this beautiful area with an awe-inspiring mountain backdrop. We then head south to our wonderful stunning beach camp – home to amazing coastal sunsets. The 80,000 hectare Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage Area, with its centrepiece Mount Ruapehu rising dramatically 2797m from the surrounding area. Next to Mt. Ruapehu are two smaller volcanic mountains - Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings) and Mount Tongariro, which is where you be hiking! Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Bike Rides: If you’re not doing the Tongariro Crossing, leave camp on a bike and head towards to the Tongariro River Trail. Cycle this loop, over bridges and past huts or a trout centre, keep an eye out for trout fishermen as this is the capital for trout fishing! Walks and Hikes: The best one day hike in New Zealand! Traverse the Tongariro, steam vents, crater lakes and more! Optional Activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, white water rafting (grade 3 rapids)

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 : Kapati Coast - Wellington - Picton

Our early arrival into Wellington by 9am gives us the opportunity to see such great attractions as the celebrated Te Papa museum, Zealandia and the gorgeous Botanical Gardens. Wellington has a wonderful harbour, café culture and a thriving central district so there is plenty to suit all tastes. We enjoy a ferry crossing (cost included) through stunning Cook Strait to the picturesque Marlborough Sounds with our final stop in Picton. Camping isn’t feasible tonight so we will be staying at a great hostel with various room options. This is payable locally and we have dorm beds reserved for everyone on board (prices from $31). Wellington is New Zealand's capital with a population of approximately 490,000. It is an amazingly compact city surrounded by a natural amphitheatre of spectacular hills and wonderful waterfront. It has long been established as the entertainment centre of the country and its restaurant, cafe and theatre industry is thriving. With the highest ratio of eating options in the country it’s easy to see why Wellington is labelled the "cafe capital". Meals: Breakfast Bike Rides: None today as you’ll be too sore from Tongariro and there’s lots to see in Wellington city! Walks and Hikes: You’ll have plenty of time on your feet exploring the coolest capital, Wellington! Optional Activities: Te Papa museum (free), WLG city tour, Zealandia, cable car

Meals :Breakfast

Day 9 : Picton - Kaikoura

Today we travel the scenic Pacific coast to Kaikoura where close encounters with seals and seabirds are common. This picturesque town sits right on the ocean at the foot of the mountains – a spectacular spot. Stretch your legs with a recommended evening peninsula walk and build up an appetite for a tasty feast of locally caught fresh seafood. Tonight we camp with the sound of the waves – perfect! The waters off this stretch of coast are home to a variety of marine and bird life - it’s the perfect spot to get 'close to nature'. Kaikoura has an interesting Maori history and legend - Maui placed his foot on the Kaikoura peninsula to steady himself while he 'fished-up' the North Island from the sea. Kaikoura translates to 'meal of crayfish' (Kai - food, koura - crayfish) which is extremely appropriate with plenty to go around. Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: Kowhai bike track and a short road ride to camp Walks and Hikes: Walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway where you’ll see a vast coastline, the Kaikoura Ranges, and some pretty cute seals - expect to take lots of snaps! Optional Activities: Whale watching (boat or flight), sea kayaking, deep sea fishing

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 : Kaikoura - Christchurch - Rangitata

For those that are keen there is the chance to rise early for a wonderful sunrise and then enjoy one of our most highly rated optional activities – dolphin swimming. The resident dusky dolphins are amongst the most interactive and entertaining in the world and it’s not unusual to swim with pods of 50 or more in their natural habitat, the ocean! We then have the chance to explore this quaint seaside town before heading through Christchurch to collect and drop off those starting /ending here. Now regarded as the Shaky Isles, you’ll have time to explore Christchurch city area as well as buy your lunch from one of the many of the quirky container cafes at the ‘Restart Mall’. Since the earthquakes, Christchurch and the residents are doing lots of cool things as well as restoring its heritage which is making the city stand out as a place to explore! Enjoy the tasteful street art, artwork from the earthquake and local crafts to purchase in the city. Say farewell to your friends leaving and hello to new Flying Kiwis because at 2:30pm we head out towards the Southern Alps with fantastic views across the Canterbury plains - real Lord of the Rings country! Tonight’s unique camp is at the Shearer’s Headquarters (an actual operating farm) located at the foothills of the Southern Alps. The Rangitata River flows for over 120 kms from the Southern Alps to the Pacific ocean. This is the river where you can try white water raft tomorrow morning -- highly recommended! Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: Cycle into camp along a quite country road through fields of cows, sheep and deer with a mountainous backdrop Walks and Hikes: The Peninsula Walkway is a must if you missed it yesterday! You’ll also have plenty of time on your feet when we stop through Christchurch to check out the awesome rebuild of Christchurch city! Optional Activities: Highly recommended dolphin swim, dolphin viewing

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11 : Rangitata - Lake Tekapo

Wake up to mountain views and refresh yourself even more with the chance to try white water rafting on the mighty Rangitata River, grade 5 rapids! This thrilling ride takes you through the heart of the mountains with amazing scenery and a few splashes and spills on the way! If rafting isn’t for you then no problem - soak it all in with a morning cycle ride or walk through the forest. We then head through more jaw dropping landscapes (they don’t stop in the South Island) through the open and vast Mackenzie Country to the picture postcard, Lake Tekapo. Here you will view the most spectacular turquoise waters which get their colour from the glacial flour that comes all the way down from glaciers high up in the mountains and is deposited in the lake. From there we head to one of our best wilderness camps – sat on the shores of Lake Pukaki, a similar glacial lake with turquoise waters, you can set up your tent to nothing but views of lakes and mountains. Cross your fingers for a clear night sky as this area is part of New Zealand's dark sky reserve, an incredible place to star gaze! Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Bike Rides: If you're not rafting in the morning hop on your bike and head to the Peel Forest walks. In the afternoon you can follow a canal before cycling around the edge of Lake Pukaki and into camp Walks and Hikes: A variety of walk options today including the protected conifers of Peel Forest and then this afternoon you'll have some time to walk along the edge of two incredible glacial lakes Optional Activities: White water rafting (grade 5 rapids!), horse-riding

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 : Lake Tekapo - Mt Cook - Moeraki

Today is a real chance to immerse yourself in the snow-capped mountain scenery that New Zealand is famous for. We will be exploring Aoraki National Park and hike to the base of NZ’s highest mountain - Mount Cook. We then head back to the Pacific coast with a short stop in the historic town of Oamaru. From there it’s a short drive down the coast to the small village of Moeraki. Go for a walk to a view point and take in the views of the Pacific Ocean and try and spot a little blue penguin along the shore. If you have a bike it’s possible to visit a colony of extremely rare yellow-eyed penguins near to camp. Mount Cook (Maori name - Aoraki meaning 'cloud piercer') dominates the skyline at 3,724m and is New Zealand's highest mountain. Nestled in between the other 18 peaks above 3000m within Aoraki/Mt Cook national, Mt Cook dominates the skyline and is the main feature in the backdrop of our hike to the bottom of the Hooker valley glacier. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Bike Rides: An early morning ride along the edge of Lake Pukaki takes you to one of the most impressive viewpoints in the area. During the afternoon you can ride a short section of the Alps2ocean trail followed by a ride out to Katiki Point Lighthouse where you may s Walks and Hikes: Enjoy walking into the start of Mt Cook National Park in Hooker Valley. A three hour return hike, you’ll be blown away by the mountainous landscape not to mention a glacier during the hike. Enjoy boardwalk terrain as well as crossing numerous swing bridge

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 : Moeraki - Dunedin

If the tide is low then we can walk along the beach to the mysterious Moeraki boulders. These perfectly round spheres of rock have formed over millions of years and have found their way onto the beach near Moeraki and make for some fun photo opportunities. We then travel to Dunedin, a city with a scottish heritage, the name is actually the Scots Gaelic word for Edinburgh, the Scottish capital. The city has an interesting European history which you can learn about in the Otago Settlers Museum. We will be visiting the world’s steepest street and there is also another opportunity to go wildlife spotting on an optional cruise exploring the Otago Peninsula. Our camp is a stones throw from St. Kilda beach and tonight you can either have you own cook group or take a walk along the beach to St. Clair for excellent food options. Meals: Breakfast Bike Rides: Ride around town from camp or out to the Otago Peninsula later in the day if you’re not doing any optional activities. Walks and Hikes: You’ll feel your heart pumping through your chest as you take a stroll up the world’s steepest residential street!

Meals :Breakfast

Day 14 : Dunedin - Fiordland National Park

Journey through scenic southern pastures to Te Anau, the hub and jumping-off point for Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Our accommodation tonight is a unique and historic site hidden in the unspoilt Hollyford Valley - a true wilderness escape. There is even an onsite museum to learn more about the region and history. For cyclists there is the chance to cycle into camp and for the hikers this camp offers some great short treks (ask your guide about secret glow worm trails). The south west corner of New Zealand is home to Fiordland - home to wild, dramatic and rugged landscapes. The main town for access to the Fiordland National park region is Te Anau, the park is a World Heritage Area over 1.2 million hectares in size. In this area everything is oversized - gigantic waterfalls, towering mountains and forested valleys meet you around every corner. Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Bike Rides: Enjoy riding through the isolated and moody Fiordland National Park into Hollyford Valley where you’ll finish at our camp (literally away from all civilisation, it’s great!) Walks and Hikes: Short walks today as we’re on a mission to get to Fiordland National Park!

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15 : Fiordland National Park - Te Anau

Travel one of the world’s most scenic routes into Milford Sound! Described as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. The fiord's cliffs rise dramatically from the dark waters (home to seals and dolphins) whilst waterfalls as high as 1000 metres cascade downwards. Board the optional boat cruise to explore the fiord up close. Afterwards those who love hiking are in for a treat with the start of the Routeburn Track. This 3 day walk passes through 2 National Parks and is a haven for native birdlife. Charge up your camera as this hike offers everything from mountainous peaks and sheer rock faces to pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls and dense, luxuriant forest. After dropping off our brave Routeburn hikers the rest of us will head back to Te Anau for the night where you can explore more of this small town with the awesome lake front and great mountain views. In any weather Milford Sound is an incredible spectacle. The sheer cliffs and dramatic waterfalls lead along a spectacular 16km journey to the Tasman sea and back again. The boat cruise lasts for 1 hour 30 minutes and is a great way to see the fiord and get a feel for the scale of this awe-inspiring place! Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Bike Rides: Leisurely ride along the lakefront of Lake Te Anau and up alongside a river before looping back to camp. Go as little or as far as you please. Walks and Hikes: For those who have pre-booked, the absolutely unforgettable Routeburn Track! Explore the lakefront of Te Anau in the afternoon once we are out of Fiordland National Park. Optional Activities: Highly recommended Milford Sound boat cruise, Routeburn Track (3 day/2 night alpine hike), Te Anau glowworm caves & boat ride

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16 : Te Anau - Queenstown

Today we journey to Queenstown along the shores of the photogenic Lake Wakatipu. Once we arrive at the adventure capital of New Zealand you have a huge selection of activities to choose from. There is everything here, from adrenalin pumping bungy, canyon swing and skydiving to a relaxing horse trek or boat cruise – this place has it all. There are great tracks around the lake ideal for bikers and hikers and all with wonderful views of this alpine region. Camping isn’t feasible in this bustling alpine village, for the next two nights we stay in dorm-share accommodation in a centrally located hostel. Perfect for making the most of all Queenstown as to offer.

Meals :Breakfast

Day 17 : Queenstown

With so much to do we spend another day in fantastic Queenstown with the opportunity to enjoy those once in a lifetime experiences (don’t forget to try the legendary and very tasty fergburger!). Routeburn Track walkers re-join the group here with time to try the many exciting activities this vibrant city has to offer. Tonight you get the opportunity to dine out at one of Queenstown’s many delicious eateries - a great chance for your group to enjoy a true kiwi feast (own cost). Rightfully regarded as the adrenalin capital of New Zealand (if not, the World) Queenstown has something for every taste. It is also a spectacular location, nestled beside the deep blue of Lake Wakatipu by the foot of the Remarkables Range. Queenstown thrives year round with its superb alpine facilities and ski slopes - it was recently voted one of the top 25 cities in the World by a top travel magazine and we know why! Meals: Breakfast Bike Rides: Awesome bike options if you have a free day you can choose short or longer cycling experiences that will take you past jaw dropping landscapes, vineyards, great cafes and more! Walks and Hikes: Plenty of mountains you can hike to enjoy inspirational views of Lake Wakatipu and the alpine surrounds! Optional Activities: Bungy jumping, canyon swing, skydiving, horse riding, boat cruise plus much more! There really is something for everyone in Queenstown!

Meals :Breakfast

Day 18 : Queenstown - Lake Wanaka

Our final morning in Queenstown and your last chance to indulge in the Queenstowns action before we farewell those finishing their tour and welcome new travellers joining us here. Leaving at 2:30pm, after the thrills and spills of Queenstown we travel through more mountains and on towards more stunning glacial lakes. On the final stretch to camp we start getting views of Mt Aspiring National Park in the distance. Lake Wanaka is just over the next ridge and its on the edge of this glacial lake that we find our next wilderness camp. Enjoy great views of Lake Wanaka and the mountains beyond as we absorb the beauty of the area.

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 19 : Lake Wanaka - Glacier Country

Enjoy a relaxed morning at our lakeside camp then it's northward bound through Mt Aspiring National Park. Just before we reach the West Coast we stop for a walk to the amazing Blue Pools, and then head over the dramatic Haast Pass. As we travel towards the wild West Coast, the road follows braided rivers and huge glacier carved valleys. There are two more great walk options along the way, one through lush and ancient forests and the other through swampy vegetation, ending on the beach where it is possible to spot Hector dolphins. Tonight, we will be staying beside the beautiful Lake Paringa enjoying a true West Coast wilderness experience.

Meals :Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20 : Glacier Country - Okarito

Today is your chance to explore one of NZ’s most unique and spectacular natural wonders – Franz Josef Glacier. This staggering beautiful work of nature is 12 kilometres and descends from the Southern Alps to less than 300 metres above sea level. To get on the ice you must go up by helicopter but it’s possible to view the glacier with a stunning walk through the main valley up to the terminal face. Before arriving at Franz Josef, we take a highly recommended walk around Lake Matheson where crystal clear reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman make the perfect photo opportunity. Late afternoon, we have a short drive up the coast to our beautiful beachside campsite next to the Okarito lagoon – one of the very few places where there are still rare sightings of our native kiwi bird and the home to NZ’s only colony of the White Heron (kotuku). Enjoy a fire down on the beach taking in the rugged coast and epic mountain views.

Meals :Breakfast, Dinner

Day 21 : Okarito - Greymouth - Christchurch

Enjoy an early morning walk, with a view of the sunrise over the Southern Alps as a reward. We then continue up this spectacular coastal road to the quirky town of Hokitika, home to the Greenstone factories and a great place to pick up a traditional souvenir of your visit. We travel on to Greymouth where you'll board the Tranz Alpine train and travel one of the best train journeys in the world through some of New Zealand's most incredible scenery on its route from Greymouth to Christchurch arriving at 6:30pm.

Meals :Breakfast

DEPARTURE /PICKUP INFORMATION:

Auckland pickup: 10am 172 Quay Street (public bus stop opposite ferry terminal), Central Auckland City.

2019 TOUR DEPARTURE DATES:

October: 16, 25
November: 3, 12, 21, 30
December: 9, 18, 27

2020 TOUR DEPARTURE DATES:

January: 5, 14, 23
February: 1, 10, 19, 28
March: 8, 17, 26
April: 4

Optional hires: You can hire any of the following equipment from us for the duration of your trip or bring your own gear. We charge a small handling fee for those who bring their own bikes but there are no charges for your own tent etc.

$380 Cycle hire for entire trip
$145 Bring your own bike
$210 Single tent upgrade
$75 Sleeping bag hire

Hostel nights: There is 1 night where camping isn't feasible and we stay in a hostel at your own cost, payable on arrival. We have dorm beds reserved for everyone on board. Contact us prior to travel if you would like to pre-book a private room (subject to availability).

Cabin upgrades (optional): Are available most nights for a small fee, payable on the day (subject to availability). During the peak travel months of Dec, Jan, Feb we recommend pre-booking upgrades prior to travel through the Flying Kiwi office. Pre-booking upgrades incur a 10% pre-booking service fee of the total upgrade cost.

Optional Activities: Most days there are a selection of optional activities you can choose to do (i.e. skydiving, heli hiking etc). Payment for optional activities are made direct to the operator on the day.

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Overland Explorer