10 Day North & South Tour
Embark on this 10 day, 9 night highlights tour across the captivating landscapes of Aotearoa, New Zealand. On this small group tour, you'll be journeying from the vibrant city of Auckland to the charming garden city of Christchurch.
Immerse yourself in the essence of New Zealand’s landscapes and heritage on this 10 day, 9 night highlights of New Zealand Tour. Journey through the enchanting glowworm caves of Waitomo, the geothermal marvels and Māori traditions of Rotorua, the sacred grounds and warm hospitality at Lake Aniwhenua, and the world-renowned vineyards of Marlborough. This is more than a holiday, it’s a story waiting to unfold.
Start in Auckland, venture to the magical glowworm caves at Waitomo and experience Rotorua’s geothermal wonders. Connect with Māori culture through authentic encounters and traditional hangi feasts, feel the power of Taupō’s Huka Falls, enjoy the exceptional wines of Hawke’s Bay in Napier, and dive into Wellington’s cultural treasures and artistic charm. Cross to the South Island and soak up Nelson’s sunny atmosphere before indulging in a vineyard lunch in Blenheim. Then, travel along the stunning Kaikoura coastline and Canterbury’s lush farmland, arriving in Christchurch filled with new memories.
Our small-group New Zealand tours for over 50s are thoughtfully designed to inspire and delight, offering the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and connection. Join Kirra Tours to explore this extraordinary country with like-minded travellers and expert local guides.
What's Included:
- Experienced Guide - Expert knowledge and engaging stories
- Small Group Tour – Max 24 - Intimate experience and connection
- Luxury Touring Vehicle - Travel comfortably in style with panoramic views
- 9 Nights’ Accommodation - In carefully selected, quality hotels
- Meals Included - 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners to delight your palate
- Waitomo Caves Experience - Explore magical glowworm caves on a guided boat tour
- Lake Tarawera Visit - Scenic volcanic lake with stunning natural beauty
- Buried Village, Rotorua - Discover the history and tragedy of the 1886 eruption
- Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience - Warm Māori hospitality and traditional hangi
- Huka Falls - Witness the thundering power of this iconic waterfall
- Mission Estate Winery - Gourmet lunch paired with exceptional Marlborough wines
- Te Papa Museum - Dive into New Zealand’s culture and heritage exhibits
- Inter-Island Ferry - Scenic crossing between North and South Islands
- Wither Hills Wine Tasting - Sip renowned wines in a beautiful vineyard setting
Welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand! Your journey begins in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, known as the ‘City of Sails’ with two harbours and over 44 volcanoes. Upon arrival, check in at the Nesuto Stadium Hotel and receive your welcome letter with tour details. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and expert local guide at 6:15pm, followed by a delightful welcome dinner at 6:30pm to kickstart your holiday.
- Accommodation: Oaks Auckland Hotel, Beach Road, Auckland
- Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, we leave vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland for the legendary Waitomo glowworm caves, once admired by Sir David Attenborough himself. Glide by boat beneath a galaxy of twinkling glowworms before exploring an ancient limestone cave, sculpted by nature over millions of years.
Our journey then takes us onward to Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal heartland. This evening, savour a delicious group dinner before settling into the comfort of your Rotorua accommodation for a well-earned rest.
- Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
- Included Activities: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we’ll journey along the edge of Lake Rotorua to a lookout with stunning views of Mount Tarawera, once home to the famous Pink and White Terraces before the 1886 eruption. Next, visit the Buried Village, New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site, to learn about the eruption’s impact and explore the remains of Te Wairoa village.
In the afternoon, take a refreshing walk through Whakarewarewa Forest, where towering Redwoods, Douglas firs, and native Silver ferns surround you. Then enjoy free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace, wander the geothermal wonders of Kuirau Park, stroll lakeside and through the Government Gardens, relax at the Polynesian Spa, or ride the Gondola for breathtaking views of the Rotorua Skyline.
- Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
- Included Activities: The Buried Village, Scenic Waitawa Walk in the Whakarewarewa Forest
- Meals Included: Breakfast
2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
05 Sept 2025 | 14 Sept 2025 | |
03 Oct 2025 | 12 Oct 2025 | |
24 Oct 2025 | 09 Nov 2025 | |
31 Oct 2025 | 09 Nov 2025 | |
14 Nov 2025 | 23 Nov 2025 | |
21 Nov 2025 | 30 Nov 2025 |
2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
18 Sept 2026 | 27 Sept 2026 | |
02 Oct 2026 | 11 Oct 2026 | |
16 Oct 2026 | 25 Nov 2026 | |
06 Nov 2026 | 15 Nov 2026 | |
20 Nov 2026 | 29 Nov 2026 | |
27 Nov 2026 | 06 Dec 2026 |
2027 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
15 Jan 2027 | 24 Jan 2027 | |
29 Jan 2027 | 07 Feb 2027 | |
05 Feb 2027 | 14 Feb 2027 | |
12 Feb 2027 | 21 Feb 2027 | |
26 Feb 2027 | 06 Mar 2027 | |
12 Mar 2027 | 21 Mar 2027 | |
26 Mar 2027 | 04 Apr 2027 | |
09 Apr 2027 | 18 Apr 2027 | |
23 Apr 2027 | 02 May 2027 |
2025 - 2026 Season (01 Sep 2025 - 30 Apr 2026)
Single - $7,245pp
Twin/Double - $6,295pp
2026 - 2027 Season (01 Sep 2026 - 30 Apr 2027)
Single - $7,495pp
Twin/Double - $6,295pp
Accommodation Pre Tour - Auckland
Single $340pp, Twin/Double $365pp
Accommodation Post Tour - Christchurch:
Single $435pp, Twin/Double $465pp
All prices listed are in New Zealand Dollars
