Optional Activities
19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise and Coach
Bay of Islands
![Image for Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Fullers_Cape_Reinga__via_Ninety_Mile__Beach_600x337.png)
Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach
Journey to the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse at New Zealand’s northernmost tip, where the Tasman Sea meets the mighty Pacific Ocean. Experience the thrill of driving along TeOneroa-a-Tōhē / Ninety Mile Beach, keep a close eye out for the wild horses that call this place home as you take in ...
![Image for Russell Mini Tour](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Russell_Mini_Tour12_600x337.png)
Russell Mini Tour
There is no better way to explore the sights of historical Russell than on the Russell Mini Tour. This one-hour tour by coach visits the areas which cannot be easily covered on foot. You’ll see 360 degree views of the Bay of Islands from the Flagstaff Hill and learn about ...
![Image for Tall Ship Sailing - Day Sail](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Tall_Ship_Sailing_Day___Sundowner_Sail_600x337.png)
Tall Ship Sailing - Day Sail
The R. Tucker Thompson is an iconic tall ship based in the Bay of Islands. Help hoist the sails, climb the rigging, or just relax. Day sail includes morning tea and lunch on board. A cash bar is available on all cruises. Also included is a free return ferry ticket ...
![Image for Darryl's Lunch Cruise to Russell](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Darryl_s_Lunch_Cruise_600x337.png)
Darryl's Lunch Cruise to Russell
Join Darryl and his crew on this calm water cruise to explore some of the historic sites in the Bay. From Paihia we venture along the coast towards Opua and head over to Okiato, passing Omata Estate Vineyard and Kororareka oyster farms along the way. Sit back and relax while ...
![Image for Darryl's Dinner Cruise](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Darryl_s_Dinner_Cruise1_600x337.png)
Darryl's Dinner Cruise
Join us as we meander along the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls, a unique kiwi experience. Your journey with Darryl’s crew is one of discovery, entertainment and a fresh display of local cuisine prepared for you onboard. Take in the stunning views, historic points of interest and abundant birdlife along ...
![Image for Tall Ship Sailing - Sundowner Sail](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Tall_Ship_Sailing_Day___Sundowner_Sail_600x337.png)
Tall Ship Sailing - Sundowner Sail
The R. Tucker Thompson is an iconic tall ship based in the Bay of Islands. Help hoist the sails, climb the rigging, or just relax. Sundowner sail includes a shared antipasto platter. A cash bar is available on all cruises. Also included is a free return ferry ticket to Russell so ...
![Image for Helicopter Scenic Flight](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Helicopter_scenic_flight_SA_600x337.png)
Helicopter Scenic Flight
Fly over the crystal-clear turquoise waters found in the world famous Bay of Islands to the “Hole in the Rock”. This flight also explores from above the townships of Russell, Paihia and Waitangi, plus offers the opportunity to land on top of the Hole in the Rock by helicopter! There are ...
![Image for Cape Reinga Fly/Drive Half Day Tour](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Cape_Reinga_Fly_Drive_Half_Day_Tour2_600x337.png)
Cape Reinga Fly/Drive Half Day Tour
An unforgettable scenic flight experience by aeroplane. Fly the West Coast via 90 Mile Beach, spend 2.5 hours exploring the top of New Zealand in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, before returning to Paihia along the spectacular East Coast.
![Image for Thunder Trike Tours](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Thunder_Trike_Tours_2.png)
Thunder Trike Tours
Climb aboard our custom Kiwi built V8 Chev Trike for a guided tour through idyllic Paihia. Buckle up and settle back for one of the more unique rides of your life! Venture out on to the open road to the half-moon shaped Haruru Falls then continue back to Waitangi Lookout ...
Auckland
![Image for All Blacks Experience](files/Auckland/All_Blacks_Experience6_600x337.png)
All Blacks Experience
Whether you have an interest in rugby or not, this full sensory, interactive experience allows visitors to connect with New Zealand and Māori art and culture and gain insights into Kiwi lifestyle. The All Blacks Experience is the ideal introduction to international visitors on their arrival to New Zealand. Through ...
![Image for Auckland Museum](files/Auckland/Auckland_Museum_600x337.png)
Auckland Museum
Regarded as one of the finest museums in the Southern Hemisphere and renowned for its unique collection of Māori and Pacific treasures. Housed in one of the country’s finest heritage buildings, Auckland Museum portrays the rich diversity of New Zealand. From the great Polynesian voyages which first brought people to ...
![Image for Wētā Workshop Unleashed](files/Auckland/Weta_Workshop_Unleashed_Auckland_2___600x337.png)
Wētā Workshop Unleashed
A global award-winning movie-making tour. The crew will take you on a 90-minute guided journey through three fully interactive and immersive film sets: a nail-biting horror, a fantasy epic and a mind-bending sci-fi. It’s your chance to get up-close and hands-on with enchanting environments, resident creatures, hyper-realistic giants, a galactic ...
Rotorua
![Image for Rotorua City and Lakes Tour](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Rotorua_City_and_Lakes_Tour2_600x337.png)
Rotorua City and Lakes Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Rotorua City & Lakes Tour, immersing yourself in the beauty of three stunning lakes: Rotorua, Tikitapu, and Okareka. Lasting between 90 to 105 minutes, this fully guided experience seamlessly blends historical insight with the thrill of riding a genuine WWII amphibious Landing Craft, ...
![Image for Mount Tarawera/Waimangu via Floatplane](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Mount_Tarawera_Waimangu_via_Floatplane_600x337.png)
Mount Tarawera/Waimangu via Floatplane
Experience the thrill of a floatplane flight as you fly over Rotorua’s 18 lakes, vibrant geothermal reserves, and remarkable volcanos. Fly over the spectacular 8km volcanic crater rift line along the summit of Mount Tarawera and take in memorable views and a perspective of Rotorua that only a few are ...
![Image for Mount Tarawera Volcano Landing via Helicopter](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Mount_Tarawera_Waimangu_via_Floatplane_600x337.png)
Mount Tarawera Volcano Landing via Helicopter
Experience the thrill of a helicopter flight as you fly over Rotorua’s 18 lakes, vibrant geothermal reserves, and remarkable volcanos. Fly over the spectacular 8km volcanic crater rift line, before landing on the summit of the dormant volcano for a 15-minute guided walk. Take in memorable views and a perspective ...
![Image for Polynesian Spa](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Polynesian_Spa2_600x337.png)
Polynesian Spa
Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua lies Polynesian Spa, New Zealand’s leading international spa. A geothermal bathing and soul-soothing retreat, where you can experience wellness sourced from Rotorua’s very own backyard. Renowned for its healing waters and decadent spa therapies, discover why people have flocked to these waters since the 1800s. Waters ...
![Image for Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa](files/OptioNZNorthIsland/Wai_Ariki_Hot_Springs_and_Spa_2.png)
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa opened in June 2023 and is the first luxury cultural wellness destination in New Zealand. Owned by the local tribe Ngāti Whakaue, Wai Ariki is nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, and built on their legacy of cultural traditions, healing practices and manaakitanga ...
Wellington
![Image for The Wētā Workshop Experience Wellington](files/Wellington/Weta_Workshop_Wellington1_600x337.png)
The Wētā Workshop Experience Wellington
Dive head-first into a world of creativity, physical effects, and movie magic! The Wētā Workshop Experience in Wellington is a 90-minute guided tour. Explore real props, costumes and creatures created for your favourite films. Then step onto a real shooting stage and enter our world of miniatures and modelmaking.
Christchurch
![Image for Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Christchurch_Botanic_Gardens_Tour_1.png)
Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour
Sit back and take in the beauty of the various sections of the gardens as your driver navigates and commentates you around the 21 hectares on board an electric shuttle. The live commentary points out the seasonal highlights you’ll pass as you travel in comfort on a 50 minute tour. Opening ...
West Coast
![Image for Haast River Safari](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Haast_River__Safari.png)
Haast River Safari
We offer visitors an amazing journey and rare opportunity to experience the untouched natural beauty of Te Wahipounamu - South West World Heritage Area of New Zealand, while travelling in one of our unique custom designed fully enclosed Jet boats. We ensure all passengers remain warm, dry and comfortable for ...
![Image for Westland Greenstone Ltd](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Westland_Greenstone_Ltd_600x337.png)
Westland Greenstone Ltd
Established in 1962, Westland Greenstone is one of the leading pounamu / jade carving and manufacturing companies in Aotearoa / New Zealand. Proudly Māori owned and operated, we employ skilled carvers to produce a wide range of jewellery and sculptures. Travellers can watch our in-store film showing the carving process before ...
![Image for Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Twin_Glacier1_600x337.png)
Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight
From Fox or Franz Josef Village, fly over both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring first over the townships and then following the ice flow high up into the upper reaches. Land in the snow at the head of one of the glaciers and survey the path the glacier ...
![Image for Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Neve_Discoverer1_600x337.png)
Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight
Are you ready for an adventure? Part of the mystique of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers is that they are constantly moving. On this flight which glacier we land on and where is dictated by daily movement of the ice formations and the weather patterns that these vast areas ...
![Image for Mountain Scenic Spectacular Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Mountain_Scenic_Spectacular1_600x337.png)
Mountain Scenic Spectacular Helicopter Flight
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of New Zealand’s largest glaciers. From above you can view and appreciate the incredible natural phenomenon, towering ice formations and vast size of the glaciers. Top it off with a snow landing and standing on the ancient ice of the glaciers. You’ll also ...
![Image for Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Fox_Glacier_and_Mt_Cook_Scenic_Flight1_600x337.png)
Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight
Fox Glacier, fed by four alpine glaciers and at 13km, the longest of the West Coast glaciers. You’ll land on a snowfield surrounded by the glacial formations at the top of the glacier. The return takes you past our highest peak, Aoraki / Mt Cook, ‘the cloud piercer’ before returning ...
Queenstown
![Image for Time Tripper](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Time_Tripper_2.png)
Time Tripper
KJet also powers Time Tripper, Queenstown’s unique underwater cinematic experience that takes you on a journey through time, dating back to 90 million years. After witnessing the beautiful Māori Legend of Lake Wakatipu and the creation of New Zealand, you can watch the diving ducks, eels and trout, being fed. Jetboat ...
![Image for KJet](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/KJet_600x337.png)
KJet
KJet is New Zealand’s original Jet boat ride and has been operating since 1958. Departing from the heart of downtown Queenstown, KJet offers 60-minutes of Jet boating across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. The high-powered twin engine Jet boats reach insane speeds of up to 95kph, ...
![Image for Unforgettable Skippers Canyon](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Unforgettable_Skippers_Canyon_600x337.png)
Unforgettable Skippers Canyon
You are picked up from your hotel in a comfortable minibus bound for Skippers Canyon. You visit this secluded area in small groups of 9 passengers. Your local guide provides a commentary and serves some refreshments with cheese. Plenty of photo stops and short walks make this sightseeing experience truly ...
![Image for The Grand Circle Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/The_Grand_Circle1_600x337.png)
The Grand Circle Helicopter Flight
Queenstown’s beauty comes from the diverse landscapes of the Wakatipu Basin. Fly past the canyons of the Shotover River, the ski slopes of Coronet Peak, and rural retreats and villages that Queenstowners call home. Land high above Queenstown on a craggy mountain precipice and take in the striking views.
![Image for Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Flight](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Southern_Glacier_Experience1_600x337.png)
Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Flight
From our base venture to the Southern Alps the spiny mountain range that divides the South Island. Witness firsthand Mount Aspiring, vast untouched tracts of native forest and ancient glacial icefalls before landing amongst the snow-capped peaks of the Mount Aspiring National Park.
![Image for Skyline Queenstown](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Skyline_Queenstown_600x337.png)
Skyline Queenstown
The famous Skyline complex is perched high above the town on Bob’s Peak. Exclusively accessed by scenic Gondola rising 450 vertical meters, Skyline Queenstown is a 'must-do' attraction in Queenstown, New Zealand. Grab something light and tasty from the Market Kitchen café, or a cold drink from the bar where ...
![Image for Shotover Jet](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Shotover_Jet1_600x337.png)
Shotover Jet
Experience the thrill of the Shotover Jet, the World’s Most Exciting Jet Boat. Shotover Jet has carried over 4 million people since it began in 1965, and now it’s your turn! Action packed from the moment you leave the jetty, the 25-minute jet boat ride takes you through the iconic Shotover ...
![Image for Best of Queenstown](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Best_of_Queenstown1_600x337.png)
Best of Queenstown
No trip to Queenstown is complete without taking in the incredible views, learning the unique history, sampling delicious local wine, and getting out on the water. Altitude Tours has hand-picked the top local sights and combined them into a great half-day sightseeing experience. Explore Arrowtown, witness Bungy jumping, taste delicious ...
Te Anau
![Image for Fiordland Cinema](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Fiordland_Cinema1_600x337.png)
Fiordland Cinema
“Ata Whenua - Shadowland”, a breathtaking film that will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth. Fiordland Cinema was specially constructed to screen this film. Enjoy breathtaking scenery in a theatre experience to remember. There are three options available: $14 (Movie), $23 (Movie ...
![Image for Te Anau Glowworm Caves](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Te_Anau_Glowworm_Caves_600x337.png)
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Your trip to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves begins with a cruise to the western shores of Lake Te Anau. At the entry to the caves at Cavern House, view the displays and learn about this geological wonder before you join your guide underground. The caves are still being carved ...
Dunedin
![Image for Eco Wildlife Tour](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Awesome_Tours_NZ_Eco_Wildlife_Tour_600x337.png)
Eco Wildlife Tour
The remote beaches at Natures Wonders are a breeding ground for remarkable wildlife. Travel across farmland to wildlife viewing areas where you will have the opportunity to observe penguins, seals and cormorants in their natural habitat. Keep an eye skyward and you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Royal Albatross ...
![Image for Speight's Brewery](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Speight_s_Brewery_600x337.png)
Speight's Brewery
See over 141 years of brewing history as our guides take you through our interactive brewery tour. Focus on the history of this Dunedin icon, by exploring the brewery from top to bottom. Learn about all of the ingredients that go into our award-winning brews and hear about our state ...
![Image for Olveston Historic Home](files/OptioNZSouthIsland/Olveston_House1_600x337.png)
Olveston Historic Home
Set in a 1-acre ‘garden of national significance’, NZ’s finest historic mansion ‘Olveston’ was built in 1906. Home of businessman and philanthropist David Theomin, a collector of artworks and antiques from all around the world. Today, the house is still breathtakingly furnished with all the original contents; a visit reveals ...