South Island Journey - A Kiwicraft Adventure

14 Days | 11 Nights

Price per person from * $6,699pp *Based on double occupancy
Air/Land Inclusive

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Embark on the ultimate Minecraft-inspired adventure in New Zealand, exploring real-world biomes from the golden beaches of Abel Tasman to the icy peaks of Mount Cook. Discover hidden caves with glowworms, conquer fjords in Doubtful Sound, and paddle through canyon rivers in Queenstown, crafting unforgettable memories in this epic blend of exploration and adventure.

  • Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Nelson, returning from Queenstown
  • 11 Nights Standard/Superior Accommodation
  • 9 Experiences including Sailing in Abel Tasman NP, Wildlife Kayaking, Dark Sky Summit Experience and more
  • 11 Days Compact SUV Car Rental with unlimited mileage
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Doubtful Sound c.RealNZ

Doubtful Sound c.RealNZ

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Description

Begin the ultimate Minecraft-inspired adventure through New Zealand, where real-world landscapes meet pixelated imagination. This epic journey takes you through diverse biomes, from lush forests and golden beaches to majestic fjords and snowy mountain peaks, perfect for crafting unforgettable memories.

Start your quest in Nelson, staying at the eco-friendly Kimi Ora Eco Resort, nestled among native bush with stunning ocean views. Set sail from Kaiteriteri on a full-day sailing adventure through the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park, exploring hidden coves and golden beaches that look straight out of a pixel-perfect paradise.

Continue south to Kaikoura for a 30-minute Whale Watch flight, soaring above the ocean for a bird’s-eye view of majestic whales, much like spotting rare mobs from above. Paddle through the waters on a Wildlife Kayaking experience, surrounded by curious seals and seabirds.

Travel inland to the alpine wonderland of Tekapo, where you’ll stay at Peppers Bluewater Resort. At night, enjoy the Dark Summit Experience, stargazing under the clearest skies, reminiscent of gazing at Minecraft’s pixelated cosmos. Choose your adventure with either a Cass Valley Backcountry Tour or exploring the rugged terrain of Braemar Station Mt Cook, perfect for adventurers seeking epic mountain views.

Next, journey to Te Anau for 3 nights at Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, where you’ll set sail on a Doubtful Sound Coach and Cruise, exploring mystical fjords and cascading waterfalls. Venture into the underground realm of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, lighting up the darkness like enchanted pixels.

Conclude your adventure in Queenstown, where you’ll paddle through hidden canyons on the Funyaks Safari and soar through the treetops with the thrilling Kereru 2-line and Drop.

This unforgettable journey blends exploration, adventure, and relaxation, creating the perfect Minecraft-inspired quest in New Zealand.

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Price

Travel Dates

Price*
*Based on double occupancy
May 1, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025 from $6,699pp *
Jun 26, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025 from $7,149pp *
Jul 26, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025 from $6,789pp *
Oct 1, 2025 - Dec 4, 2025 from $7,569pp *

*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements apply. Valid for departures May 1, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025. Advertised pricing reflects low season pricing. Seasonal surcharges apply for travel outside this season. Must be booked by June 30, 2025. Black-out dates may apply. Prices are current at time of posting (2/21/2025) and may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed, due to seasonal surcharges and currency fluctuations. All pricing is strictly subject to availability. All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices. CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531 | PC-1282498.

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Inclusions

  • Round-trip airfare on Air New Zealand from Los Angeles to Nelson, returning from Queenstown
  • 11-Days Group G Compact SUV car rental including unlimited mileage
  • 2-nights Kaiteriteri, Kimi Ora Eco Resort, Studio Room including Continental breakfast
    • Full-day Sailing ex Kaiteriteri
  • 1-night Kaikoura, Sudima Kaikoura, Deluxe King
    • 30-minutes Whale- Watch – Fixed Wing
    • Wildlife Kayaking
  • 2-nights Tekapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort, Hotel Room
    • Dark Sky Summit Experience
    • Cass Valley Backcountry Tour OR Braemar Station Mt Cook (Jul 1- Oct 1)
  • 3-nights Te Anau, Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Run of House
    • Doubtful Sound Coach and Cruise
    • Te Anau Glowworm Caves
  • 3-nights Queenstown, Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown, Deluxe Room with Balcony
    • Funyaks Safari
    • Kereru 2-line and Drop
  • Breakfast daily
  • US/foreign taxes and Fees including September 11 Security Fee

Exclusions

  • Car Rental excludes additional insurances, petrol, bond, additional drivers (NZ$5+GST per day up to a maximum of NZ$25 +GST for the entire length of rental), Standard Insurance Excess (payable direct) and miscellaneous charges
  • New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free App or NZ$23 if completed online PLUS the IVL NZ$100. Payable on application.

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Map

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Itinerary

  • Plane Wing 102892839 m normal none WEB

    Day 1- Depart Los Angles

    This evening make your way to the Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight aboard Air New Zealand to Auckland. Enjoy a dining experience full of super fresh ingredients and flavors and an extensive range of premium New Zealand wines to complement each meal. Relax in the ergonomically designed seats that create generous personal space to ensure a comfortable journey. Take control of the on-demand entertainment and enjoy a wide range of audio and video and a collection of the very best in music.

  • Clock 205297419 m normal noneWEB

    Day 2 - International Date Line

    During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

  • Wilsons Abel Tasman Awaroa Inlet Beach

    Day 3 - Kaiteriteri

    On arrival in Auckland, transfer to your connecting flight to Nelson. Collect your rental vehicle and make your way to your hotel in Kaiteriteri for a 2-night stay. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore at leisure.

    • Kimi Ora Eco Resort  (Standard)
  • Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures 14

    Day 4 - Kaiteriteri (B)

    Transfer to Kaiteriteri to depart on a full day cruising Abel Tasman. Cruise past Split Apple Rock and along the bush clad coastline viewing the antics of New Zealand fur seals on your journey to Anchorage. Enjoy an hour-long lunch stop at Anchorage Beach which allows time for exploring, swimming or relaxing. Reboard the boat catching the afternoon seabreeze and cruise further into the National Park and back to Kaiteriteri taking in the golden beaches and bays, lagoons, islands and birdsong.

    • Kimi Ora Eco Resort  (Standard)
  • 516678 kaikoura canterbury web 2560

    Day 5 - Kaikoura (B)

    After breakfast, travel south along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, with breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, rolling vineyards, and lush farmlands. Along the way, stop in Blenheim for a taste of world-class Marlborough wines before continuing to Kaikoura (approx. 3.30 hours), where majestic mountains meet the sea.

    This afternoon, experience the excitement of watching seals ducking, weaving, and diving around your kayak. Have chance encounters with dolphins, penguins, and albatross! This 3-hour kayaking adventure around the beautiful coastal waters 100% guarantees seal viewing and takes in the breathtaking views of sheer cliff faces, craggy rocks and mountain ranges while searching for chance encounters with dusky dolphins and blue penguins

    • Sudima Kaikoura  (Superior)
  • Wings Over Whales humpback dolphins

    Day 6 - Tekapo (B)

    This morning, enjoy a 30-minute scenic flight and whale watch. Gain an aerial perspective on the world of whales and dolphins in Kaikoura's stunning marine environment. From the comfort of the aircraft, experience the true magnitude of the world’s largest mammal, the whale.

    Continue your journey inland to Tekapo, traveling through stunning Canterbury landscapes, from rugged coastlines to vast open plains framed by the Southern Alps. Along the way, pass through Geraldine and Fairlie, perfect spots for a break before arriving at Lake Tekapo (approx. 5 hours), known for its turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain views.

    This evening, enjoy the wonders of southern night sky and experience the thrill of peering through powerful telescopes. When the stars are hidden from view, you will be taken on a journey to discover the nocturnal world of an astronomer. See research equipment that is out-of-bounds to the public and experience the wonders of astronomy. With the use of powerful telescopes, you can view distant objects such as planets, star-clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies

     

    • Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo  (Superior)
  • Tekapo Adventures2

    Day 7 - Tekapo (B)

    Explore Lake Tekapo's isolated wilderness on a small-group Cass Valley Backcountry Tour through an alpine river valley. Travel through the incredible Glenmore Station's high country, surrounded by merino sheep and dramatic mountains. Discover the towering mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and unique geology, ecology, birdlife and history of the area. Private entry provides remote access to the remarkable backcountry and outstanding scenery of the Cass Valley wilderness. It is a great opportunity to experience Lake Tekapo's mystical mountains and it is a wonderful highlight of your time in Lake Tekapo.

    During the months the Cass Valley Backcountry does not operate (Jul 1 -Oct 1), the tour will be replaced with the Braemar Station Mt Cook Tour. Travel through stunning tussock grasslands and enjoy the most outstanding views in the Mackenzie Country. Private access to Braemar Station's High Country provides the best views of unique landscapes and incredible scenery, including Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, Lake Pukaki and the Ben Ohau Mountain range. Journey along remote 4WD tracks and glacial moraines to experience the heart of Tekapo's backcountry landscapes at their finest. 

    • Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo  (Superior)
  • 235568 lake tekapotakapo canterbury web 2560

    Day 8 - Te Anau (B)

    After breakfast, continue south passing through picturesque landscapes of golden tussock plains and sparkling blue lakes. Along the way, stop in Omarama or Cromwell for a bite to eat, before continuing through the scenic Lindis Pass and the rugged beauty of Fiordland National Park (approx. 5 hours). On arrival, check-in to your hotel for a 3-night stay.

    • Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas  (Superior)
  • Doubtful Sound Landscape 4 R

    Day 9 - Te Anau (B)

    Experience rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting and hidden inlets on a full-day tour to Doubtful Sound. The only way to reach Doubtful Sound is by taking a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus journey over the stunning Wilmot Pass, New Zealand's most expensive and remote road. Along the way, pause to take in the lush Fiordland rainforest and capture breathtaking views of Doubtful Sound shimmering below, a hidden gem known only to the most adventurous travelers.

    Once there, board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise through the untouched beauty of Doubtful Sound, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and serene waters. Your knowledgeable skipper or nature guide will share fascinating insights about the region’s history, landmarks, and diverse wildlife, including playful dolphins, sunbathing fur seals, and the elusive Fiordland crested penguin.

    • Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas  (Superior)
  • Day 10 - Te Anau (B)

    Take a guided tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where rushing underground streams and glowing worms create a magical, otherworldly experience.

    Begin with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the remote western shores. At Cavern House, learn about the caves’ geology before entering the twisting limestone passages with a knowledgeable guide.

    Marvel at sculpted rock formations, whirlpools, and a roaring underground waterfall before drifting silently through a hidden grotto, illuminated by the sparkling glowworms unique to New Zealand.

    The remainder of your day is free to relax or explore at leisure.

    • Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas  (Superior)
  • Queenstown in the Spring 173152 c.Queenstown Tourism

    Day 11 - Queenstown (B)

    After breakfast, drive from Te Anau to Queenstown, a scenic journey of about 2 hours, winding through rugged mountains, rolling farmlands, and along the picturesque Lake Wakatipu. Along the way, stop at Kingston for panoramic lake views before arriving in the vibrant adventure hub of Queenstown.

    On arrival, check-in to your hotel for a 3-night stay.

    • Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
  • Funyaks Tour

    Day 12 - Queenstown (B,L)

    The Funyak Safari offers an unforgettable way to explore the stunning Dart River. Begin with an exhilarating 1.25-hour jet boat ride upstream before switching to an inflatable Funyak canoe for a leisurely 2-hour paddle downstream, guided by an expert.

    Drift through the shimmering channels, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and stop for a wilderness buffet lunch amidst ancient beech forests. Explore hidden side streams, rock pools, and dramatic chasms like Rockburn, before continuing downstream to Paradise, where a 4WD coach will take you back to Glenorchy with scenic stops along the way. Suitable for most ages, no experience is needed, and wetsuits are provided—just bring swimwear and a towel.

    • Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
  • ziptrek Ecotours1

    Day 13 - Queenstown (B)

    Enjoy a relaxing morning in Queenstown before finding your wings and flying through the treetops on two breathtaking ziplines before finishing with a swooping 21-meter drop, leaving you fledgling no more! Discover the story of Zealandia and Ziptrek’s preservation of our natural landscape whilst we do our bit to protect our native wildlife! A whole new way to experience Queenstown if you're seeking a heightened thrill level or short on time as all done and dusted in just under an hour.

    • Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
  • Plane Wing 102892839 m normal none WEB

    Day 14 - Depart Queenstown (B)

    After breakfast, enjoy the last few hours in Queenstown before heading to Queenstown Airport to return the rental vehicle ahead of boarding your flight to Auckland and connecting flight to Los Angeles.


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