At a glance
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Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
Welcome to the adventure capital of the world – New Zealand. Nestled amidst dramatic landscapes, bubbling geysers, and pristine white sand beaches, this small country packs a big punch when it comes to thrilling experiences. As you explore this enchanting land, you’ll find yourself immersed in scenes reminiscent of the iconic Lord of the Rings movies, which were filmed in these very locations.
Your journey begins in Auckland, the vibrant heart of New Zealand. This bustling metropolis offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. From trendy districts like Parnell to the lively gay scene around K-road, Auckland sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
Next, venture to the enchanting hot springs of Rotorua, where the rich tapestry of Māori culture awaits. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the indigenous people as you explore the geothermal wonders and soak in the rejuvenating hot mud pools.
But the real thrill awaits in the mountains of South Island, where you’ll make your way to Queenstown. Brace yourself for heart-pounding experiences as you sail along the majestic Milford Sound, leap into the abyss with a bungee jump, soar through the skies with hand-gliding, or zip-line across stunning landscapes.
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New Zealand has one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks for LGBTQ+ rights in the world. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1986. In 2013, New Zealand became the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to legalize same-sex marriage.
Anti-discrimination protections cover sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression across employment, housing, and public services.
Legal gender recognition does not require surgery or medical intervention, placing New Zealand among the most accessible countries in the world for transgender travelers seeking legal recognition.
In practical terms, LGBTQ+ couples and solo travelers will find New Zealand uniformly welcoming.
Auckland has the most visible LGBTQ+ scene, centered on the Karangahape Road area, and hosts a Pride festival each February.
Wellington has a similarly relaxed culture in a more compact setting. Outside the cities, the absence of any need for caution is itself notable: checking into a remote lodge in Fiordland or a vineyard estate in Central Otago, same-sex couples are received without comment.
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In detail
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Day 1 and 2: Auckland And Waiheke Island
Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand. A small city by international standards, it’s nonetheless big enough to have top restaurants, trendy districts like Parnell and a gay scene around K-road. We’ll have a welcome dinner and begin our New Zealand adventure.
On the third day we’ll head to Waiheke Island. It’s just a 40-minute ferry ride. On the way we’ll pass the volcanic island of Hauraki Gulf. When we arrive at Waiheke Island we’ll explore its olive groves, beaches and wineries. We’ll have some excellent food here and then make our way back to Auckland for one more night in the city.
- Included: Sky Tower observation access
- Optional: Jump from Skytower and hike to Mt Eden.
Day 3 - 5: Rotorua
On our way to Rotorua we’ll stop at Raglan, a popular surfing town. When we’ve had lunch we’ll carry on our way. Rotorua is known for its hot mud pools, geothermal activity and geysers. We’ll be able to relax in the warmth of the hot springs, discover traditional Māori culture, see the glow-worm caves of Waitomo and visit Hobbiton.
Rotorua is home to the largest percentage of Māori people. This is your chance to discover the distinctive, indigenous culture of New Zealand. You could brave a ride in a Zorb, try black water rafting or visit the set of Lord of the Rings.
- Included: Glowworm cave boat tour
- Optional: Visit a Māori village, try underwater river tubing and visit Wai-O-Tapu, an active geothermal wonder
Day 6 and 7: Wellington
On day seven we’ll be setting out on a road trip. We’ll take the scenic route through the inland desert, passing Tongariro National Park on our way to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital. It’s a city by the sea with a good arts scene, lots of museums and even a gay scene.
A local guide will take us for a city tour. We’ll aslo take a cable car to Kelburn and visit the Te Papa museum.
- Included: Local farm experience including sheep shearing and mustering demonstration, including lunch
- Optional: Gay night out, Te Papa Museum, underground market, cable car
Day 8 - 12: Queenstown
We’ll take a flight from North Island to South Island. Located at the edge of Lake Wakitipu, Queenstown is known as the world’s adventure capital. There are so many activities to choose from. You can go bungee jumping, hike Ben Lomond and visit the vast Milford Sound fjord.
If you have time between your activities you can join your guide on a hike up Tiki Trail. At the top you’ll be greeted with great views of the mountain range.
Queenstown is our final stop in New Zealand. On the 12th day you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.
- Included: Hike Lake Wakatipu with a guide
- Optional: Jetboat along Kawarau River, cruise Milford Sound, bungee jump, white water rafting, ziplining paragliding
More Information
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Trip Highlights
- Tiki Trail Hike
- Waiheke Island day trip
- Guided tour of Wellington
- Welcome dinner
- Tour leader
- Domestic flight from North Island to South Island
- All land transportation included
Why book with us?
Personal Service
We want to ensure you have the best experience with us so we’ll keep working on your itinerary until perfect. You will have your own personal dedicated member of our team who will help build a trip that is bespoke to you.
Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
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