New Zealand: Auckland to Queenstown
July Special $4200
$4400
Deposit: $1000
Why Travel with Chicas Abroad?
- Small, intimate groups (6-10 women)
- Perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation
- Unique experiences best shared with a group of adventurous women
- Fun and experienced tour leaders who truly care about YOU
- A casual, judgment-free atmosphere
Who is Chicas Abroad?
We take women on small group adventures around the globe! We will take you out in nature to hike, kayak, bike, and do all the things with a fun group of adventure-seeking women! We also offer custom-curated adventures for you and your friends/family. Reach out to info@chicasabroad.com for more information. You can see all of our upcoming adventures and learn more about our company at chicasabroad.com
About this trip
This 8-day New Zealand adventure with Chicas Abroad takes you from the vibrant harbor-front of Auckland to the stunning fjords of the South Island. Highlights include a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, geothermal wonders and Maori culture in Rotorua, and adrenaline-filled activities like zip-lining or white-water rafting.
On the South Island, explore Queenstown and cruise through the dramatic beauty of Milford Sound. Enjoy lakeside hikes in Wanaka, a jet boat ride, and a relaxing wine tasting in Gibbston Valley. It’s the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
Important Notes
Activity Level – Easy to Moderate
This trip offers a balanced blend of physical activity and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Expect a mix of walking, light hiking, and optional adrenaline-filled adventures like zip-lining and jet boating. Scenic nature walks, geothermal exploration, and cultural experiences provide active yet manageable days, while spa visits, wine tastings, and scenic cruises offer plenty of opportunities to unwind. While some days are more fast-paced, the itinerary allows flexibility so you can tailor the physical intensity to your comfort level.
Weather
Are you ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime?
Sneak Peek Trip Details
Day 1 - Arrive Auckland
Arrive in Auckland, Viaduct, & Dinner
On your first day in Auckland, arrive in the vibrant “City of Sails” and explore the bustling Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter. Wrap up the day with a memorable Welcome dinner to kick off our journey through New Zealand!
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Auckland City Center
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2-Rotorua
Hobbiton, Te Puia’s Geysers, Maori Cultural Dinner
Get ready for a day of natural wonders and cultural immersion! After a scenic drive to Rotorua (around three hours), you’ll be entering a world of bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs. But first, stop by the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata—yes, it’s the iconic setting from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit! Wander through the lush, rolling hills, and snap some photos at the famous Hobbit holes. In Rotorua, explore Te Puia, where you’ll get up close with the explosive geysers and the eerie, bubbling mud pools. The evening brings a taste of tradition, with a Maori cultural performance and a hearty hangi dinner—cooked in an underground oven—giving you an authentic taste of Maori hospitality.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3-Rotorua
Zip-lining & Polynesian Spa
Time to crank up the adventure dial! In the morning, we will be zip-lining* through the trees on a canopy tour in Rotorua’s native forest. After all that excitement, it’s time to relax. Head to the Polynesian Spa for a rejuvenating soak in the geothermal mineral pools. Nestled by Lake Rotorua, these pools offer soothing hot springs with incredible views. Spend your evening strolling along the Lakefront Boardwalk, where the setting sun casts a golden glow over the water. Take it easy, reflect on the adventures, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Zip-Lining*
*If you want to skip the zip-lining, we will do our best to find an alternate activity for you during this time.
Day 4 - To Queenstown
Fly to Queenstown, Free Time to Explore, Dinner
After breakfast, the group will hop on a flight to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. When we land, we’ll be greeted by the towering mountains and the sparkling Lake Wakatipu, setting the scene for our next adventure. After checking into our accommodation, we’ll head out to explore downtown Queenstown—think boutique shops, bustling cafés, and incredible views at every turn. For the ultimate panoramic views, ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas of Queenstown, the lake, and surrounding peaks. If you’re in the mood for some extra fun, hop on a luge and zoom down the mountain! Dinner time means lakeside dining—sit back, relax, and enjoy fresh, local cuisine with a view of the stunning lake, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 - Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cruise, Relaxing Evening
Buckle up for one of the most scenic days of your trip, maybe of your life! We will start early with a coach ride to Milford Sound, passing through dramatic landscapes as we make our way to one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. We’ll have plenty of opportunities for breathtaking photo stops along Milford Road, so keep your camera ready! Once we arrive in Milford Sound, it’s time to board a nature cruise and explore the stunning fjord. Admire towering cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and possibly even spot some wildlife like dolphins, seals, or penguins. After soaking in the natural beauty, we’ll head back to Queenstown in the evening. If you’re not too tired, the town’s nightlife is waiting, with lively bars and cozy spots to relax.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 - Hiking
Ben Lomond Hike with Beautiful Views
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Queestown
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity: Hiking 9.3 miles, rated hard
Day 7 - Boating & Wine
Shotover River Jet Boating, Wine Tour, Farewell Dinner
Queenstown is the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers, and today’s adventure will take our group to one of its most iconic experiences—the Shotover River Canyon tour! We will start our morning with a heart-pounding jet boat ride through the narrow, winding canyons of the Shotover River. As our boat speeds along, we’ll skim across crystal-clear waters, dodging rocks and whipping past towering canyon walls. The stunning scenery will take your breath away as you zip through one of New Zealand’s most famous natural wonders. After the adrenaline rush, spend the afternoon unwinding with a wine tour through Gibbston Valley, where we’ll sample some of the country’s finest wines and indulge in local cheeses. Finish your day with a delicious farewell dinner.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel, Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Activity: Jet Boat Ride
Day 8 -Depart Queenstown
Departures & Optional Garden Visit
On your final morning in Queenstown, take a leisurely walk around the peaceful Queenstown Gardens or squeeze in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. If you’re not quite ready to leave, consider extending your stay for even more adventures. But when it’s time to say goodbye, head to the airport with a heart full of memories from an unforgettable New Zealand adventure!
Note: You can depart at anytime this day. If your flight is later, feel free to visit the gardens.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Let’s Make This Journey Yours
What’s included
Accommodation
4-star hotels throughout New Zealand. All rooms are double occupancy with 2 twin or queen beds. If you’d like a single room, there is an option to purchase the single supplement at check out.
Ground Transportation
Transport is provided throughout the trip, including the domestic flight between Rotorua and Queenstown. Airport transfers also included.
Tips for Local Guides
Generous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides and drivers. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader are optional and at your discretion.
Meals
All meals included as indicated in the itinerary. We can accommodate dietary restrictions.
Excursions
Chicas Abroad Swag
We provide amazing swag items to our guests to enjoy during and after your adventure!
What’s not included
International Flights
Guests must book their own international flights to arrive in Auckland on January 14th by 12:00pm(noon) and depart Queenstown on January 21st at anytime.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense, with the exception of the included beer at the brewery tour.
Chicas Abroad Leader Tip
If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350
Personal Purchase
Souvenirs and other personal purchases are not included.