21 Day - Tui Tour - Stray

Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. This gorgeous little place will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast eternally). When the tides are right, we’ll drive over to the nearby Hot Water Beach and dig ourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand. Who said backpackers can’t do luxury? Accommodation: Cabin accommodation by the beach Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies en-route - Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner Free activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach

If you don’t believe in magic yet you might just change your mind after watching a sunrise on Hahei Beach. It’s worth the 7am alarm – trust us – but don’t even think about going back to bed afterwards. Instead, grab a coffee, pack a picnic and ‘carpe diem’ by hiking to the hidden paradise we like to call Cathedral Cove. Walk to the north end of Hahei Beach, up the coastal track and along the cliffs to discover heaps of cool little coves and bays! Accommodation: Cabin accommodation by the beach Optional paid activities: Kayaking, guided boat tour. Meal options: Self-catering available (Kitchen and BBQs), Fish and Chips at the pub Free activities: Hike to Cathedral Cove, explore Hahei or relax on the beach

It’s just a short trip to Rotorua and, let’s just say, the ‘unusual’ sulphur smell will be a telltale sign that you’ve arrived! Known as the North Island’s geothermal hot spot and hub for all the very best adventure activities, Rotorua is 100% one of the best places to explore… even if your nostrils tell you otherwise! We’ll stop at the Whakarewarewa Forest for a walk amongst the giant California Redwoods planted over 100 years ago before checking in at our hostel. If you want to see some geothermal activity for free, head across the road to Kuirau Park to see boiling mud pools and steaming lakes. Accommodation: YHA Rotorua Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk, Kuirau Park

There’s so much to see and do around Rotorua, the hard part will be deciding what to do with your free day. You could hire a mountain bike, go ziplining through native bush, try zorbing, go whitewater rafting or hop on the gondola and race your mates down a mountain on a luge. If you’re looking to relax instead, have no fear! Visit the thermal pools, sample all the food on Eat Street or explore the lake front area and the Government Gardens. Accommodation: YHA Rotorua Optional paid activities: Hire a bike, Whitewater Rafting, River jet tour, Skyline Luge, ziplining, zorbing, geothermal attractions Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Explore the lake front and the Government Gardens

After hanging out in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, you’ll probably feel ready to experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. Today we venture off the beaten track to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a local Maori family who are passionate about showcasing their Maori tribal heritage. You'll see sacred Maori rock carvings, play traditional stick games and watch the preparation of a ground cooked 'hangi', before tasting it for yourself! Prepare your tastebuds - this will probably be the best meal you eat in New Zealand, or maybe even in your lifetime! Exclusive experience includes: 1 night’s accommodation at the serene lakeside Kohutapu Lodge Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert Continental breakfast Guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history and challenges. Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins Optional paid activities: Learn the Haka, Maori flax weaving ($10 each) Meal options: Full traditional hangi dinner and dessert included Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball, Maori cultural games

Rise and shine, strayers! Enjoy your buffet breakfast and get ready for a day of jam-packed adventure. Keep your togs (swimwear) handy, because our first stop is Kerosene Creek – a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak. Then it’s on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the mighty Huka Falls before venturing about as far off the beaten track as you can get in the North Island! Blue Duck Station is a sprawling 7,200-acre high country farm that is both a working station and an eco-conservation pioneer dedicated to protecting the native environment for its namesake, the rare blue duck. On arrival, we will settle in to learn a little about daily life at Blue Duck, the station’s interesting settlement history and their sustainability efforts before cooking some dinner and chilling out around the bonfire. Accommodation: Country station lodge Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo Meal options: Breakfast included. We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo

Good news - You have a full free day to explore this ruggedly charming destination. For entertainment, you have the option to go horseback riding over rolling green hills, or jump on a 4WD and travel through native bush to the ‘Top of the World’ where you can see the three peaks of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. If you’d prefer to explore on foot, hike to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall and see if you can spot a rare blue duck in the flesh. Whatever you decide, we have no doubt this will be the start of your love affair with this lush kiwi paradise. Those holiday romances, aye! Accommodation: Country station lodge Optional paid activities: 4WD farm tour, half-day horse trek Meal options: Self-cater in the lodge kitchen Free activities: Hike to Kaiwhakauka waterfall

Limber up! Today you get the chance to tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Considered one of the world’s top one-day walks, this 19km hike takes you across a rocky plateau with dramatic volcanic peaks, craters and turquoise lakes that you (and your Instagram feed) will remember for a lifetime. The Crossing is open to walk year-round (alpine gear and guide are required in winter), but it is subject to the weather conditions. If the weather prevents you from doing the Crossing, there are other awesome short-walks in the area. Tonight, unwind after a big day in a cosy historic lodge in Raetihi – complete with a pamper room, spa bath and mountain views. Accommodation: Historic restored lodge with mountain views Optional paid activities: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing Meal options: Pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water. Group dinner (approx. $15) Free activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool)

Onwards to Wellington, the ‘coolest little capital in the world’! Wellington packs a lot of character into its downtown district, with funky restaurants and bars along Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. Fill your afternoon by browsing through the exhibits at Te Papa National Museum, grab a craft beer at an edgy brewery, climb to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views or take a stroll along the waterfront and Oriental Parade. Oh and, most importantly for those who seek 24/7 caffeination, you’ll be glad to know that Wellington’s coffee culture and cafe scene is considered one of the best in NZ. Accommodation: Central city hostel Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views, visit Te Papa National Museum, Gumboot (welly) throwing

We catch an early Bluebridge Ferry across the Cook Strait and through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck to witness some incredible scenes. From here we’ll pick up a few extra Strayers in Picton before setting off through the picturesque Marlborough region. Then we continue to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. Accommodation: The Barn, waterfront accommodation Optional paid activities: Wine tasting (usually $5-10) Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner Free activities: Mussel tasting, stargazing

Count yourself lucky - you have a full day to explore New Zealand’s most popular national park. From our accommodation you can hike straight into the park (no water taxi required!). It’s a cool 12kms to Anchorage and you’ll see the park’s natural golden sand beaches and brilliant blue waters along the way. The walk is approx. 4 hours each way but there’s enough photo stops en-route to spend an entire day exploring. Enjoy a picnic on the beach before checking out Cleopatra’s Pools, moss lined fresh water pools with a natural water slide. Accommodation: The Barn, waterfront accommodation Optional paid activities: Kayaking, skydiving, water taxi, canyoning Meal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQs Free activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools

Buckle up for an awesome day driving down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast, an area known for its untamed beaches and spectacular rainforest. Through Buller Gorge and down a stretch of road named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, there’s not much cell phone reception but you are NOT gonna need it – we dare you to peel your eyes away from the window for even just a second. We’ll stop at Cape Foulwind and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blow holes to explore this unique part of coastline before continuing on to the quaint township of Franz Josef, set amongst the rainforest. Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat Meal options: Pizza Party (optional), local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Cape Foulwind, Buller Gorge, Pancake Rocks and blowholes, Hokitika

Ice, ice baby! Get ready to experience the Franz Josef Glacier, an iconic highlight of the West Coast. Take a short drive to the beginning of the track. Hike through native bush and across glacial streams to the terminal face of the glacier for spectacular photos or just hang out at the Retreat and relax in one of NZ’s largest spa pools. Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat Optional paid activities: Shuttle to the track Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Glacier hike, bush tracks, soak in the spa

It’s another scenic journey today with plenty of photo stops – your Mum isn’t gonna be the only one who thinks your travel photos are world-class! First up is the amazing mirror-like Lake Matheson for a short walk. We travel inland through the mountainous Haast Pass and alongside beautiful Lake Hawea to arrive in Wanaka late-afternoon. It’s the perfect time to get your own photo of the famous Wanaka Tree set against a sunset backdrop. Dreamy! Accommodation: Central Wanaka hostel Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Lake Matheson walk, Ship Creek walk, Blue Pools walk, Thunder Creek Falls walk

Kick start your day with a brisk walk up Mt Iron or have a sleep in (we know they’re necessary sometimes!). Mid-morning we’ll make our way to Queenstown, known in New Zealand as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ and the spiritual home of bungy jumping. We stop at Kawarau Bridge on our way into town a.k.a. the first commercial bungy jumping site in the world. If you’re feeling brave you can tick the bungy off your bucket list or if you’d prefer to just watch then you can cheer your mates on from the viewing platform! Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel Optional paid activities: Puzzling World, skydiving, mountain biking, pilot your own stunt plane or learn to fly and take a friend for free, bungy jumping Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Walk Mt Iron, watch people jumping off a bridge!

Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! You’ve got 3 full days in the adventure capital. With a buzzy night life, beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place. Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we mad Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…) Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak

Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! You’ve got 2 more days in the adventure capital. With a buzzy night life, beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place. Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we mad Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…) Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak

Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! Last full day in the adventure capital. With a buzzy night life, beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place. Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we mad Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…) Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak

Depart Queenstown to drive over the Lindis Pass through the beautiful Mackenzie Country and past the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki. Our final destination of the day is Lake Tekapo. The Lake is a stunning electric blue and is framed by the Southern Alps. See the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, a quaint stone church right on the edge of the lake or hike up to the Mount John Observatory to see the incredible views. Accommodation: YHA Tekapo Optional paid activities: Tekapo Hot Springs Free activities: Church of the Good Shepard, Hike to Mt John Observatory

This morning we’ll make our way to take in the stunning views of Aoraki Mount Cook. While you’re there you can hike the scenic Hooker Valley Track or head to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. This evening, why not head to the Tekapo Hot Springs - they're the perfect place to relax and soak up the scenery. If skies are clear tonight, be sure to head outside to experience one of the best stargazing spots in the country. Accommodation: YHA Tekapo Optional paid activities: Tekapo Hot Springs, Ice Skating, Snow tubing Meal options: Self-catering in the hostel kitchen or local bars and restaurants Free activities: Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Hooker Valley Track, stargazing

Our final destination is Christchurch where the tour will end. We hope you had a blast travelling with us! If you have time at the end of your tour, there's plenty to explore in Christchurch. Spend your afternoon wandering the city streets and laneways to discover creative street art and hidden eateries. Take a walk down Hereford St to discover the ‘Cardboard’ Cathedral and the earthquake memorial of 185 White Chairs. If you have a bit more time, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and see how Christchurch earned its nickname as the Garden City or visit the Canterbury Museum to learn about the past, present and future of the region.