Tailor-made Vacation · New Zealand
Introducing New Zealand
Tailor-made, always
Every trip built from scratch around your dates, pace and preferences.
Your own specialist
One named person and a 24-hour number while you travel.
Hundreds of five-star reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot across ten years of LGBTQ+ luxury travel.
At a glance
Experience the ultimate New Zealand adventure with our seven-day whirlwind tour, spanning both the enchanting North and South Islands. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of bustling cities, marvel at breathtaking natural wonders, and embark on thrilling adventures along the way.
Embark on a self-drive and fly itinerary, granting you the freedom to explore at your own pace while ensuring you make the most of your time. From the cosmopolitan charm of Auckland to the adrenaline-fueled escapades of Queenstown, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable experiences.
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Begin your journey in Auckland, the "City of Sails," where you'll soak in the stunning waterfront views and iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower. Then, venture to Rotorua, where you can witness the mesmerizing glow-worm caves of Waitomo or immerse yourself in the fantastical world of Hobbiton.
Next, jet off to Christchurch, a city of resilience and rebirth, where you can explore vibrant shopping precincts and witness the remarkable regeneration following the earthquakes. Finally, make your way to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, where you can unleash your inner thrill-seeker with activities like jet boating, bungee jumping, or quad biking.
Whether you're captivated by cultural experiences, enchanted by natural wonders, or seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures, our seven-day tour offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's North and South Islands.
Day by day
This is a sample plan, not a fixed departure. Days can be added, removed or reordered, and almost every client changes something. Prices are an entry-level guide; your quote will be exact.
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Day 1: Auckland
On arrival into Auckland, pick up your rental vehicle and make your way to your accommodation in downtown Auckland.
Auckland is a colorful vibrant city, often called the ‘City of Sails’. Located on the spectacular sparkling Waitemata Harbour its major landmarks are the Harbor Bridge, the Sky Tower and Rangitoto Island, the region’s youngest volcano. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent harbor, the many and varied activities of the city or walk and hike in the nearby hills where native flora and fauna abound.
Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua
Today make your way to Rotorua, a journey of approximately three and a half hours (without stops). There are two ways to head to Rotorua, one will take you via Waitomo Caves and the other via Hobbiton. Upon arrival into Rotorua, the remainder of your day is at your leisure.
Waitomo Caves: Tour the Waitomo Glow-worm Caves, through limestone chambers and passages, viewing stunning features such as the Tomo (a deep shaft that falls away to the darkness below), and the famous ‘Cathedral’. The unique climax of this visit is experiencing a silent boat trip through the glow-worm grotto. Marvel at the amazing light display as you glide quietly beneath the lights of thousands of glow-worms suspended from the cave ceiling. Only the gentle sound of dripping water reminds you that you are deep underground and not beneath a star-filled sky.
Hobbiton: At Hobbiton, experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings. Your tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250-acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the ten-acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton set was created. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth.
Day 3: Rotorua
Spend the day exploring Rotorua.
Opt to explore the Thermal Wonderland at Wai-O-Tapu where you’ll Lady Knox Geyser perform as well as taking a guided walk through the Waimangu Volcanic craters.
For the thrillseekers, experience the adrenaline rush that takes you down the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world as you try white water rafting. You’ll want to keep your eyes open for the seven-meter drop!
Day 4 and 5: Christchurch and Queenstown
Fly to Christchurch. The center of the city and Cathedral Square has been completely re-opened offering a sometimes sobering in sight into the destructive power of the quakes. The central city now boasts two new shopping areas – a new retail and cafe precinct called “Re- Start” featuring over 30 retail shops built in fashionably presented shipping containers has recently opened in the Cashel Mall area of Cashel Street and the charming New Regent street, first opened in the 1930s now with some wonderful boutique outlets.
The next day, it’s a long drive to Queenstown.
This far-reaching road adventure takes you from sea level to the highest point of New Zealand. You’ll begin with the flat green tranquility of the Canterbury Plains, but it won’t be long before you climb to the tussock wilds of the high country. Amazing smoky turquoise lakes announce your arrival in the Aoraki Mt Cook region, a place for outdoor pursuits. Continue to Queenstown through the beautiful Lindis Pass – just magic when there’s snow around. Lake Dunstan is a fine place for a picnic before you explore the restored heart of Cromwell. Take a detour to Bannockburn if you’re interested in old gold workings. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungee jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are other interesting distractions before arriving in Queenstown.
Day 6: Queenstown
Queenstown has captured hearts since the first Maori came in search of Pounamu (greenstone or jade) and to hunt the giant Moa Bird and the same magic remains today. Queenstown is now an established resort town for visitors from all parts of the world and all spectrums of life. This town deep in the heart of the South Island of New Zealand is pure escapism. This is the place where limits stop and people’s imaginations take over. This is your opportunity to discover the wonders.
We’d suggest turning your hand to quad biking, jetboating or maybe even bungee jumping!
Our Experts
New Zealand is one of the most magical places in the world. If you love out-of-this-world landscapes, this island nation is definitely worth adding to your bucket list.
Breathtaking landscapes, awe-inspiring environments - New Zealand impresses at every turn. The vibrant Māori culture on display here is also so special.
Stellar service. Stellar products. Stellar people and it gets so much better when you pick up the phone and call.
Anthony S.
Super client centred service. From first contact I have had warm, efficient, friendly and flexible service.
John
I’m confident in giving Out Of Office a 5-star review! They are one of the leaders in this space without a doubt.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Out Of Office do?
Out Of Office is a luxury LGBTQ+ travel company specializing in tailor-made vacations and extraordinary journeys around the world. We create bespoke luxury vacations, LGBTQ+ honeymoons, safaris, cruises, beach escapes, private tours and group trips, with every itinerary designed around you. Our travel specialists combine global expertise, first-hand destination knowledge and trusted local partners to create seamless, highly personalized experiences.
Is Out Of Office a gay travel agency?
Out Of Office is an LGBTQ+ owned and run luxury travel specialist, with particular expertise in gay and LGBTQ+ travel. We understand the additional considerations that can come with traveling as an LGBTQ+ person or couple, from local laws and customs to finding genuinely welcoming hotels and experiences.
We welcome every traveler, including friends, families and allies. Many of our clients are not members of the LGBTQ+ community, but choose Out Of Office for our luxury travel expertise, personalized service and discretion.
Do you create tailor-made LGBTQ+ vacations?
Yes. Every tailor-made trip with Out Of Office is designed from scratch around your interests, travel style, budget and the way you want to experience a destination. We can arrange luxury hotels, private transfers, flights, guides, excursions, cruises and special experiences as part of one personalized itinerary. The journeys shown on our website are there to inspire you rather than restrict you; only clearly identified group departures operate as fixed itineraries.
How do you choose LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and destinations?
We combine first-hand destination knowledge with trusted local expertise to recommend luxury hotels, resorts and experiences where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel informed and welcome. We also consider the laws, customs and attitudes of each destination, because LGBTQ+ rights and experiences differ around the world. Our team regularly visit many of the properties we work with and where a destination requires greater awareness, we give you clear and considered advice so that you can make an informed decision about where and how you travel.
We plant trees for every booking
For every booking made with Out Of Office we commit to planting trees in your name to help reduce the impact of travel on future generations. You'll even get a link to see where your trees are planted in the world via our partner Ecologi.
We donate to Rainbow Railroad with every booking
Rainbow Railroad helps LGBTQ+ people escape state-sponsored violence and persecution. A donation goes with every trip we sell, funded by us and never added to your price.
Start Planning Your Trip
Tell us where you would love to go, when you are thinking of traveling and what kind of trip you have in mind. One of our LGBTQ+ travel specialists will create a tailor-made itinerary designed around your destination, style and preferences.
One named specialist, first inquiry to homecoming. No call center, and nothing is charged until you decide to book.