New Zealand: Auckland to Queenstown

New Zealand

CA
Chicas Abroad
  • Email address verified
35 reviews
Jan 14 - 21, 2026
Group size: 6 - 12
New Zealand: Auckland to Queenstown
New Zealand

Chicas Abroad
  • Email address verified
35 reviews

Jan 14 - 21, 2026
Group size: 6 - 12

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.

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

Late January to early February is summer in New Zealand, bringing warm, pleasant weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 70–80°F (21–27°C). The North Island tends to be slightly warmer and more humid, while the South Island can be cooler, especially in alpine areas like Queenstown or Milford Sound. Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime, a few layers for cooler evenings, a rain jacket for occasional showers, and sturdy shoes for walking or hiking. Don’t forget sun protection—sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential under New Zealand’s strong sun.

Money & Tipping

All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items. You can either order New Zealand dollars from your bank at home or use an ATM on arrival in Aukland to get some cash. Exchanging USD to NZD at the airport or at a bank in New Zealand is not always easy and doesn't give the best exchange rates.


All gratuities are included in your adventure, with the exception of tips for your Chicas Abroad Tour Leader. While tipping your Tour Leader is entirely optional, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care, energy, and behind-the-scenes magic they bring to your trip.


If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350. In cases where more than one Tour Leader is present, you’re welcome to give your tip to one of them—they’ll ensure it’s shared among the team.

Packing List

A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure.

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 Transport
    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.
  • Food
    All meals included as indicated in the itinerary. We can accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Excursions
    All excursions mentioned in itinerary
  • 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 Drinks
    Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense, with the exception of the included beer at the brewery tour.
  • Tour Leader Tips
    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.

Available Packages

Early Registration: Deposit + 3 Payments
Deposit: $1,000
Available until July 31, 2025

Save $200 if you book by July 31, 2025!


The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Rotorua and Queenstown, and excursions listed in the itinerary.


All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $1000.


We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit* at booking, then 3 equal monthly payments (Aug 2025-Oct 2025). 


*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy. 

$4,200
Deposit: $1,000
Early Registration: Deposit + 1 Payment
Deposit: $1,000
Available until July 31, 2025

Save $200 if you book by July 31, 2025!


The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Rotorua and Queenstown, and excursions listed in the itinerary.


All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $1000.


We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit* at booking, then 1 final payment due on October 14, 2025.


*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy. 

$4,200
Deposit: $1,000
Regular Reg: Deposit + 1 Payment
Deposit: $1,000
Available until October 14, 2025

The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Rotorua and Queenstown, and excursions listed in the itinerary.


All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds). If you'd like your own room, there is an option for a single supplement for an additional $1000.


We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit* at booking, then 1 final payment due on October 14, 2025. We are happy to set up an interest-free payment plan that fits your budget.


*Deposit is transferable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us 91+ days before departure. If you cancel your trip less than 90 days before departure, the deposit is non-refundable. See the full terms and conditions to view the refund policy. 

$4,400
Deposit: $1,000

Available Add-Ons

Single Supplement
$1,000
Only 2 left
Deposit: $0

If you'd prefer to have your own room, we have a limited number of single rooms available.



Itinerary

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

Your Organizer


CA
Chicas Abroad
35 reviews
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 [email protected] for more information. You can see all of our upcoming adventures and learn more about our company at www.chicasabroad.com.

Reviews

The Apostle Islands Kayak Camping trip is definitely for folks who can appreciate a physical/ mental challenge in the outdoors and are prepared to expect the unexpected from Mother Nature. I am new to camping and had limited paddling experience, but found my stride while experiencing an epic adventure with a great group of friendly and supportive woman, all unknown to me prior to enrolling. The trip was enhanced by the excellent , professional and experienced guides who prioritized the group’s safety and well-being, prepared delish snacks and meals, and taught many newbies like myself how to navigate a persnickety but beautiful Lake Superior. I learned quite a lot about backcountry camping fundamentals that I will carry with me on my next outing, and I returned home feeling so much gratitude and respect for these women, the water, and the wilds of this rotating rock we call Earth. Thank you Maddy, Abby, Gitchie Gumee, and the Chicas Team, for the opportunity to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience and education.
By Peggy K for Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Sea Kayaking Adventure on Jul 08, 2025
An amazing trip with amazing women! Melanie and Tygra provided us with a great experience, taking care of the details so we could absorb and enjoy the wonderful scenery. This trip has been on my bucket list and thanks to Chicas Abroad, I can now cross it off! So glad I did it!
By Desiree W for Zion and Bryce Canyon Hiking on May 20, 2025
We loved showing you one of our favorite places on earth! Thank you for trusting Chicas Abroad with your adventure travel!
By Chicas Abroad on May 20, 2025
CA
What a treat to just show up and enjoy a fun filled weekend in Walla Walla! This was my first trip with Chicas Abroad and it did not disappoint. Melanie created an itinerary that provided opportunities to be active as well as some down time. We rode bikes to the wineries with a guide, attended the balloon stampede, hiked, ate delicious meals, and enjoyed each other's company. I am already looking forward to my next Chicas Abroad trip.
By Kathleen B for Walla Walla Balloon Stampede & Wine Weekend on May 14, 2025
Thank you for your review, Katie. We look forward to more adventures!
By Chicas Abroad on May 14, 2025
CA
The trip was remarkable in many ways. Our guide Emily was well-planned, supportive, and fun. She set a pace that worked for all of us. Our group of women shared stories while also appreciating times of quiet to enjoy the beauty of the fells, lakes, stone walls, and sheep…lots of sheep! Some of the group hiked the entire 50+ miles over the 5 days while others (like me) hiked the full trails on 3 of the days, half-trail on 1 day, and took one day off to take a 5 mile hike on my own to visit Castlerigg Stone Circle. The food was fabulous (forget what you’ve heard about English food) and the accommodations were clean and comfortable. I would sign up for another Chicas Abroad trip again with no second thoughts!
By Cyndy S for The Lake District Trail on May 03, 2025
Thank you for your review, Cyndy. We look forward to taking you on more adventures around the globe!
By Chicas Abroad on May 14, 2025
CA
Well organized. Great hotels and beautiful, challenging hiking. Loved our guide Emily!
By Sharon C for The Lake District Trail on May 03, 2025
Thank you for your review, Sharon!
By Chicas Abroad on May 03, 2025
CA
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