South-to-North Island New Zealand: 9-Day Private Tour from Queenstown
A private, expertly paced 9-day loop from Queenstown to Auckland that compresses New Zealand’s highlights—fiords, glaciers, geothermal zones, and Hobbiton—into one seamless journey. Perfect for travelers who want maximum variety without the logistics hassle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book optional excursions early
Milford/Doubtful Sound cruises, Milford helicopter flights and Hobbiton tours fill up; reserve these add-ons at booking to secure preferred dates.
Layer for rapid weather changes
Bring a warm midlayer and waterproof shell—mountain passes can be cold and wet even in summer.
Pack light, but smart
A compact daypack, reusable water bottle and comfortable walking shoes will make short hikes and town strolls easier across varied terrain.
Respect biosecurity and wildlife
Clean footwear between alpine and coastal stops and keep distance from wildlife like kea and seals to avoid disturbance and fines.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lindis Pass summit for quiet alpine vistas away from crowds
- •Evening walk at Lake Tekapo’s quieter eastern shore for Milky Way views without the main observatory crowds
Wildlife
- •Kea (alpine parrot)
- •Hector’s dolphins and New Zealand fur seals
Conservation Note
Visitors should follow biosecurity rules (clean boots, no banned food items) and stick to marked tracks to protect fragile alpine flora; choose certified wildlife operators to reduce disturbance.
Māori have lived in these islands for centuries; many place names and cultural practices—especially around Rotorua and the central North Island—reflect long-standing iwi connections and histories.
Photographer's Notes
- • Milford Sound cruise deck for waterfalls and cliffs
- • Lake Pukaki shoreline with Aoraki/Mt Cook framed
- • Queenstown Gondola summit for panoramic town and lake shots
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against frequent rain and wind in Fiordland and alpine passes.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Needed for short hikes like Hooker Valley and uneven trails at Arthur’s Pass.
Daypack with water bladderEssential
Carries layers, snacks, and camera during day excursions and nature walks.
Warm midlayer (fleece or down)Essential
Useful for chilly mornings, glacier viewpoints, and stargazing nights in Tekapo.
Common Questions
Is internal airfare included?
A standard economy transfer flight from Christchurch to Auckland is included in the tour package.
Can I customize activities?
Yes—many activities are optional and can be swapped (e.g., skydiving, wine tasting, glacier hiking) subject to availability and cost differences.
Are meals included?
Breakfast is included if you select the "With Accommodation" option; other meals and many activity tickets are optional add-ons.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, but some optional activities (Grade 5 rafting, helicopter landings) have age or fitness restrictions—check specific providers.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 6 days before departure; 50% refund if canceled between 2 and 6 days; no refund within 2 days.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes—comprehensive travel insurance that covers adventure activities is recommended and sometimes required by activity providers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 days, 8 nights
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness; able to walk 2–10 km on uneven tracks and handle short flights and transfers.
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