1. Home
  2. Oceania
  3. New Zealand
  4. New Zealand Active Adventure (ex Christchurch)

Take a wild ride through nature’s theme park.

Lace up your hiking boots, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to gain an adrenaline-pumping perspective of New Zealand. This is a trip for people who know their limits – then wave goodbye to them as they bungy jump head-first into the Waikato River, it’s for people who want to admire New Zealand’s unbeatable scenery – then swing into it on Taupo’s ‘Cliffhanger’, and it’s for people who can’t just witness cascading rapids – they have to jet-boat through them at a speed that exceeds their heartbeat. If you want to reach mountain bike trails by helicopter, check out Maori cliff carvings by kayak and feel the need to take control of your own adventure (by handing it over to an elastic cord) – then this trip was designed with you in mind.

Start
Christchurch, New Zealand
Finish
Auckland, New Zealand
Destination
New Zealand
Style
Original
Theme
Active Adventures, Explorer
Code
PTOSA
Physical rating
Ages
Min 12
Group size
Min 1, Max 15

Why you'll love this trip

  • This trip is for those who want their breath to be taken away by more than the jaw-dropping views: heli-bike, jet-boat and bungee-jump your way through New Zealand’s North and South Island.

  • Abel Tasman National Park was crafted by mother nature for the adventurous at heart, capture its pristine beauty by kayak, or hike one of the many famous trails.

  • Hold on tight for a wild ride along the Whanganui River on a jet-boat experience that feels like a rollercoaster on water. Then swap the boat for a bike and cruise through nature on two-wheels.

  • Hike into the depths of a fairytale-like forest and reward your efforts with a pancake lunch, cooked on the world’s eternal barbecue at Natural Flames.

  • Take the reins and choose your own adventure in the North Island’s outdoor sport capital – Taupo.

  • From hiking trails to biking tracks – the options are endless, and the choice is yours.

Is this trip right for you?

  • This is an active trip packed with activities such as hiking, jet boating, mountain biking and kayaking either included or as an optional extra. To fully enjoy it, you'll need to be in a good state of health and fitness. To participate in the water-based experiences, you'll need to be a confident swimmer and are happy to get wet. So, while this trip doesn't require a super high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to partake in all activities.

  • The diversity of the seasons here makes for incredible scenery, but the weather in this region can be unpredictable. It’s best to wear layers at all times of the year in case conditions change during the day. At night the temperature can really drop, so bring your warm clothes.

  • Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Only are few meals are included, so mostly you'll find your own (with plenty of suggestions from your leader of course) – a great way to mingle with locals and discover unexpected delights!

  • While most of the accommodation on this trip is tourist class, there will be some simple accommodation when it makes sense. What some may lack in comfort definitely makes up for in location and proximity to activities. Please note that on some nights during this trip, there will be shared facilities at your accommodation.

Map of New Zealand Active Adventure (ex Christchurch) including New Zealand
new-zeland_wellington_harbour
New-Zealand-NZ_taupo_hot-springs
New-Zealand-NZ_mt-ruapehu_taranaki-loop
new-zealand_wellington_cable-car
new-zealand_nelson
new-zealand_mount-ruapehu
New-Zealand_Auckland_Harbour_Wyn-Yard
new-zealand_abel-tasman_beach
new-zealand_abel-tasman
abel-tasman_new-zeland_kayak

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

Kia-ora! Welcome to New Zealand. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, however if you arrive early, why not head out and soak up the atmosphere of Christchurch. With a whole new range of pop up cafes, restaurants and bars, Christchurch has hit the ground running in the aftermath of the tragic 2011 earthquake and continues to cope creatively thanks to the resilience of its people. Although in the process of an epic rebuild, this transitional period brings a collection of exciting new buildings opening at an astonishing pace, and the infectious positivity of its people, who will only be pleased to see you. After your meeting this evening, why not head out with your new adventurous travel buddies for an optional group dinner.
Optional Activities
  • Auckland: Skytower visit - NZD32
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Rise and shine as you depart for Murchison at 7.30 this morning. Drive out of Christchurch and venture through the spectacular Lewis Pass, offering beautiful mountain views – just a sample of the scenery to come. Arrive in Murchison, nestled in the Nelson Lakes, and head out to witness the wonder of Natural Flames – the world’s only eternally burning fire, located in a woodland reminiscent of a fairytale. Hike through the fern-filled forest to the point where the natural gas flames spring from the earth, and enjoy a light pancake lunch, cooked upon the fire – mother nature’s barbecue! Return to your accommodation for the evening, located in a peaceful and rural setting near the Buller River.
Meals Included
  • Lunch
Special Information
Total driving time is around 4.5 hours (approximately 290 kms)

This morning, soak up the views on a scenic drive from Murchison to Nelson, stopping by the picturesque Lake Rotorua for a photo stop and a leg stretch. Continue to the coastal town of Nelson, nestled within a stunning landscape of idyllic beaches, untouched forest and rugged mountains. This New Zealand hotspot is a magnet for the outdoor enthusiast, and today provides the opportunity to feed your adventurous spirit on a bike ride with a twist – heli-biking! From easy-peasy to hardcore trail options, this two-in-one experience offers a helicopter ride with views over Nelson, followed by the ultimate downhill ride through this breathtaking backdrop. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to keep your two feet and wheels on the ground, then skip the ‘heli’ part and get stuck into the trails straight away. Or, if your idea of adventure lies in a bottle of Pinot Gris, then why not head out on a winery tour, or simply relax back in town.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Total driving time is around 2.5 hours (approximately 150 kms).

The adventure continues today as you head to Abel Tasman National Park, it may be one of New Zealand’s smallest national parks, however it’s home to some of the most beautiful walking tracks in the country. The range of trails are limitless, just ask your guide for their recommendations depending on your abilities and the time of year. Afterwards, why not capture the beauty of the Abel Tasman from the water and swap your hiking boots for paddles on a guided kayaking experience along the coastline? Alternatively, you might like to take a catamaran taxi across to one of the upper bays and enjoy a leisurely walk back to your pick-up point, where you’ll continue to your accommodation for the evening, nestled on the edge of the national park.
Meals Included
  • Dinner

It’s an early start as you journey through unbeatable scenery to Wellington, located on New Zealand’s North Island. After breakfast, drive to Picton where you’ll catch a ferry through the extensive network of sea-drowned valleys that make up the Marlborough Sound, providing plenty of incredible photo-ops! Continue to cruise across the Cook Strait to the country’s capital, arriving early in the afternoon. Enjoy free time to enjoy the small-city buzz of Wellington – with its epic caffeine and craft-beer scene and endless array of museums, galleries and theatres. Be sure to check out the National Museum, ‘Te Papa’, or ‘Our Place’ for an immersive insight into New Zealand’s history combined with modern art. This evening why not check out Wellington’s vibrant restaurant scene and head out for an optional group dinner.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Bid farewell to Wellington this morning and drive up through the centre of the island to the incredible surrounds near Mt Ruapehu. After your city break in New Zealand’s capital, plunge back into the great outdoors with an optional hike to the spectacular Taranaki Falls, located at the base of the mountain. The easy 2-hour trek (approximately 5.3 km) across cascading rivers and through thick fern forest, rewards you with sweeping views of the volcanic plateau, and an opportunity to soak up the spray of the falls as you walk beneath them. Later, head to the unique Blue Duck Station – an outdoor enthusiasts’ playground and your accommodation for the night. Nestled in a remote area with a natural setting on the banks of the Whanganui and Retaruke Rivers, enjoy a chilled evening and a good night’s rest, ready for tomorrows activities.
Meals Included
  • Dinner

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast and prepare for an excellent day of adventure as you kick-start your morning with an adrenaline-inducing jet boat adventure along the Whanganui River. Hold on tight for a wild ride that gives you the high of a rollercoaster on water. Soak up the spray and the breathtaking views as you zoom through the national park at high-speed. Skim past riverbanks cloaked with native bush, and weave through fern-covered gorges as you venture deeper into the wilderness to the landing site. Stretch your shaking legs on land until you reach the Bridge to Nowhere, and with seemingly nowhere in sight – this bridge offers beautiful views that stretch across the surrounding landscape. After lunch, switch things up and capture views of the national park from handlebar height as you head back to Blue Duck Station by mountain bike.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
As today is particularly active, remember to bring plenty of water with you.

This morning drive to Taupo, the heart and soul of North Island adventure and distinguished by its picturesque lakefront setting and outdoor sports. Get stuck into the buffet of activities on offer today, from bungy jumping to mountain biking, you won’t have any problem finding something that floats your boat. Speaking of boats, if you enjoyed the thrill of yesterday’s river excursion, there’s the option to do some more jet boating right here, or if you can’t get enough of New Zealand’s geologic wonders, then why not head off on a hike – Taupo is a massive crater lake and offers spectacular views across the volcanic landscape (weather permitting). For a culture fix, why not hire a kayak and check out the Maori cliff carvings at Mine Bay or go for walk along the river to the natural hot springs where you can bathe in the hot stream. If you can’t decide, your knowledgeable leader will be on hand to offer their suggestions.
Optional Activities
  • Taupo: Kayaking (from price) - NZD80
  • Taupo: Thermal Baths (from price) - NZD30
  • Taupo: Bungy Jumping (From price) - NZD180
  • Taupo: Jet Boating (From price) - NZD155
  • Taupo: Mountain Biking - NZD35
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving time is around 4 hours (approximately 260 kms) and the total distance walked will be around one to two kilometres.

Your active New Zealand adventure wraps up in Auckland today. If you’ve chosen to extend your stay then there’s plenty to see and explore in the country’s largest city. Alternatively, if you’re departing today, please refrain from booking your flight prior to 9 pm to allow for travel delays.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Total driving time is around 4 hours.

If you wish to stay longer in Auckland, our reservations team will be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability). Please make your request at the time of booking.

There are shuttles to the airport leaving every 30 minutes for those leaving this evening. However, you may arrive into Auckland as late as 5.00 pm. If you are flying out this evening, please allow 1 hour to get to the airport, and remember you need to be at the airport 3 hours before an international flight.
 View this trip in reverse

Meals

3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle

Dates & availability

Trip search is unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our New Zealand Active Adventure (ex Christchurch) trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

Prices may change, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month
Travel lightly with Intrepid. We’ve offset the main sources of carbon emissions from this trip on your behalf, including transport, accommodation & waste. Read more

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Go to dates