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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation
Nz monarch wildlife cruises 1 family easy going
Nz monarch wildlife cruises 1 family easy going
The ultimate family holiday in New Zealand

From Akaroa to the Bay of Islands

Are you an active family? This trip is for you. A perfect blend of the North and South Island with a mix of nature, culture, food & wine and local gems. Featuring some of the country's most astonishing places, it's an ideal route to get better acquainted with the outdoor Kiwi lifestyle.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Below, you can discover our suggested locations. Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.

Route and Impressions

new-zealand
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park
For a real “off the grid” experience, visit the small towns of Haast and Bruce Bay
For a real “off the grid” experience, visit the small towns of Haast and Bruce Bay
Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline of Hokitika
Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline of Hokitika
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Dig your own natural bath on Hot Water Beach
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands

Akaroa

3 nights

Enjoy the scenic drive to Akaroa on the Bank’s Peninsula. A historic French village, home to colonial architecture, galleries and craft stores. Hector's dolphin can be spotted swimming here.

Tekapo

3 nights

Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.

Otago Peninsula

3 nights

The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.

Fiordland National Park

3 nights

A nature lover’s paradise named on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ancient rainforests, snow-capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls and the remarkable Milford and Doubtful Sound fiords.

Haast & Bruce Bay

3 nights

Go hiking and hunting, or simply relax on the beaches, with almost no one around. Haast is set in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area, surrounded by national parks and rainforests.

Hokitika

2 nights

Famous for its west coast whitebait, be sure to indulge in some taste testing. Hike the Hokitika Gorge Walk, through the dense forest and over a swing bridge, for the best views of the blue-green Hokitika River.

Abel Tasman

3 nights

Explore the coastline, golden beaches and lush native forest by foot. Or kayak past secluded bays and islands, and spot marine life such as seals, penguins and dolphins.

Wellington City

2 nights

A vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. Dive into the coffee culture, visit Te Papa Museum and soak up the views from Mount Victoria.

Taupo

2 nights

A thermal wonderland of active volcanoes, trout-filled rivers, alpine tussock and ancient forests. As you make your way around the lake, you will discover an array of different landscapes.

Coromandel

3 nights

Where pristine beaches meet misty forests. Hike the Pinnacles, explore Cathedral Cove or spend your days on the glistening water - kayaking, sailing, snorkelling and fishing.

Bay of Islands

3 nights

A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.

Price guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 30 nights in comfortable holiday houses, farm stays & cottages
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 31 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Our local hosts provide warm Kiwi hospitality
Animals in the backyard of your accommodation | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 30 nights in superior holiday houses and cottages
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 31 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Amazing view from your terrace | New Zealand holiday
Hot tub with a view | New Zealand holiday
Very comfortable eco house in Kaikoura | New Zealand holiday
Bedroom with seaview | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 30 nights staying at exclusive lodges and boutique villas, holiday houses
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 31 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Comfortable bedroom with amazing view | New Zealand holiday
Secluded cottage in Horopito | New Zealand holiday
Secluded cottage in Horopito | New Zealand holiday
Swimming pool at your accommodation | New Zealand holiday with kids
Add flight
Experience the comfort of a Business Class flight with Cathay Pacific's lie-flat seats
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
Select car
Add activities
Price guide per person
Price per adult
Accommodation
and car change
0
Your flight change
0
Your car up- or downgrade change
0
Your activities change
0
Total price per adult
0
Price for all travellers
Adults 18+
0
Youth 12-17 yrs
0
Children 2-11 yrs
0
Infants 0-1 yr
0
Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
0

During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.

  • Detailed information
  • Inspirational
  • No obligations
  • Be well prepared
Step 1
Your journey
Detailed guide for
From Akaroa to the Bay of Islands
Travellers
None
Accommodation and car
None
Flight
None chosen
Selected car
None
Activities
None
Change
Preferred time of year
Remarks
Step 2
Contact options
Contact person

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation