The 10 Best Bus Tours in New Zealand, New Zealand

May 11, 2022 Oliva Fomby

New Zealand (/njuːˈziːlənd/ ( listen); Māori: Aotearoa [aɔˈtɛaɾɔa]) is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country geographically comprises two main landmasses—the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui), and the South Island (Te Waipounamu)—and around 600 smaller islands. New Zealand is situated some 1,500 kilometres (900 mi) east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 mi) south of the Pacific island areas of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans. During its long period of isolation, New Zealand developed a distinct biodiversity of animal, fungal and plant life. The country's varied topography and its sharp mountain peaks, such as the Southern Alps, owe much to the tectonic uplift of land and volcanic eruptions. New Zealand's capital city is Wellington, while its most populous city is Auckland.
Restaurants in New Zealand

1. A Waipara Wine Experience with Giles Tours, includes wine tastings and lunch

8A Mona Vale Avenue, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand Giles Tours
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5.0 based on 35 reviews

Visit four boutique wineries of North Canterbury on a wine-tasting tour with a delicious lunch. Departing Christchurch, you’ll taste a quality selection of wines in the up-and-coming Waipara wine region, including stops at Pegasus Bay, Torlesse, Greystone and Terrace Edge or Waipara Springs. Learn from your knowledgeable guide about Waipara’s unique micro-climate as you taste a range of world class red and white wines. Booking essential - we need a minimum of 4 people to run and you should be prepared to share your tour with others (Maximum of 6 per tour)

Inclusions: Lunch, Wine tasting

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2. Cape Reinga - 90 Mile Beach Tour

Mullarkeys Tours
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5.0 based on 19 reviews

Mullarkey tours – Cape Reinga Full day trip – offers a comfortable small group tour – maximum 11 passengers, with knowledgeable, humorous tour leaders – that will make sure you get to see and hear about all the best bits of the Far North and won’t forget the best photo opportunities!

Inclusions: Tour leader

Exclusions: Lunch, Hire of sand boards

Reviewed By NannyDebs74

My daughter organised this trip for my Christmas present. We booked the tour at the last minute to make the most of the weather and other activities we wanted to do in the north. We were well accommodated, our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and patient. We really appreciated that the tour went ahead given the current climate for tourism. A great variety of venues on this tour.

3. Napier Gourmet Luncheon including Afternoon Wine Tour

Vines and Views Tours
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5.0 based on 35 reviews

Join this wonderful tour to enjoy tastings at three different wineries and the chef's gourmet platter with a glass of wine at Mission Estate Winery. * Spend time absorbing the history of the 170 year old Estate. *Select your own wine to accompany the gourmet platter. *Choose between wine or beer tasting at the Urban Winery. *Seated tasting at Linden Estate in the picturesque Esk Valley. *Stop in the vineyard and discuss growing grapes for wine making. *Conclude with complimentary wine,cheese and biscuits out among the vines, T

Inclusions: Wine-tasting fees, Chef's platter with glass of Estate Range wine at Mission Estate Winery, Wine, cheese and biscuits, Tour of the barrel hall and the Golden Egg fermentor at The Urban winery, Grape-growing and vineyard management discussion at Linden Estate, Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By boohyeah

Ross has been an awesome companion (yes, he was not just our driver and tour guide that arvo). He definitely knows what he is doing and it shows his passion and heart are put on to it. When I asked him about the history of one of the vineyards there (Marist), I was impressed about his knowledge of it. It made me even more curious since I found a link between that vineyard and the school I came from which was also started by the same Marist brothers. Love the personal touch with the cheese platter and wine in a hidden gem in Hawkes bay. If you're thinking of doing an activity while you are in Napier, definitely consider Ross and put it on your to do list. Thanks for the awesome time, Ross! =)

4. Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour from Wellington

Wellington i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, 111 Wakefield Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand Zozo Travel Limited
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5.0 based on 24 reviews

Your expert local guide will narrate as you take a scenic drive over the Remutaka Ranges, where you will enjoy wine tastings at a selection of Martinborough wineries, on this full day tour. Lunch will be served at a vineyard restaurant before the tour heads to the south Wairarapa coast. Visit the rugged coastal village of Ngawi and the North Island's largest permanent seal colony as well as a drive by of the famed “Paths of the Dead” from Lord of the Rings, the Putangirua Pinnacles. Finally climb the steps to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse for epic sweeping sea views before heading to the Lake Ferry Hotel on the edge of Lake Onoke for dinner. This 10 hour tour takes in a variety of stunning landscapes in the greater Wellington region.

Inclusions: Local accommodation (hotel) or cruise ship pickup and drop-off, Local driver guide, Live commentary on board, Lunch (main dish and one drink), Wine tasting fees, Dinner (main dish and one drink), Transport by air-conditioned private vehicle, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By tyronrm

Me and my partner experienced our first wine tasting tour - we absolutely loved it. Phil makes for an entertaining tour guide. The scenery was perfect. We enjoyed many types of wine we didn't know we liked. It was also very educational. All in all, a great tour i recommend everyone does. It isn't too long or too short either.

5. Wine Sampler Tour

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Altitude Wine Tours
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5.0 based on 264 reviews

We’re not everyone’s cup of tea. But we are your glass of wine. Join us on a classic and fun top-rated wine tour in the Gibbston region. Visit four of Central Otago’s finest and off the beaten track cellar doors, including a visit to the famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. Taste over 18 spectacular cool-climate wines whilst your charismatic guide and knowledgeable cellar staff educate and amuse you with local winemaking facts and stories. Travel in style in a luxury Mercedes van, enjoy learning how to taste wine through onboard videos and make use of our WiFi and Spotify playlists. We are all about pairing good people with good wine so whether you are an adventure junkie recharging your batteries, an avid sightseer hunting more jaw-dropping views, or a wine enthusiast eager to taste some world-class wines, a wine tour with Altitude Tours is a must. The 5.5 hour Wine Sampler tour departs Queenstown at 10 am and returns around 3:30 pm.

Inclusions: Wine tastings at 4 cellar doors, Guided tour of New Zealand's largest underground wine cave, Optional lunch at a premier cellar door (at your expense), Complimentary bottled water, Complimentary Queenstown hotel transfers, Free Onboard Wifi, Complimentary branded wine glass, Fun Onboard videos

Exclusions: Lunch at a premier cellar door is at your expense

Reviewed By Jazzwhenua

We went out today with Aliah who was truely awesome and great at her job ! She made us feel safe through the drive and was very welcoming from the get go . It almost felt like we were touring with a friend. This product is well worth the money and all the staff along the journey were polite funny and very informative! Thanks Altitude we will definitely be recommending this to everyone we meet! ????

6. Full-Day Milford Sound Extraordinaire Tour from Te Anau

Fiordland Tours
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5.0 based on 450 reviews

This full-day Milford Sound extraordinaire tour from Te Anau will have you traveling along the spectacular Milford Road. With fun commentary and plenty of local knowledge provided you will have a chance to see keas, seals, dolphins and the Fiordland crested penguin. Visit the historical Gunns Camp and enjoy an amazing morning tea that includes wonderful date scones, tea, coffee and biscuits, chocolates and fruit juice. Experience an amazing 20-minute walk to the Chasm. You will have the chance to do the most spectacular 30-minute walk to Milford Sound. It is the Marian Cascade which is a continuous cascading waterfall draining from a glacier fed lake. Your day will be topped off with a 2-hour cruise on the famous Milford Sound.

Inclusions: National Park fees, Coffee and/or Tea, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off from Te Anau, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Drinks, Lunch, Hotel Pick up from Manapouri (available by special arrangement. Additional costs may apply)

Reviewed By JMR700

We had a great day - our driver was very passionate and knowledgeable, and stopped along the way at places of interest for walks (if you wanted to), views and date scones :). The minivan was super comfortable and we could enjoy the scenery which is spectacular. Cruise Milford provided the cruise service and this was an awesome experience on a beautiful boat with a very friendly and informative captain. We had booked to fly back to Te Anau if able but the weather did not permit this, however we were more than happy to make the return trip back with our group by van.

7. Full-Day Milford Sound Hiking Tour with Cruise

Fiordland Community Events Centre, 20-22 Luxmore Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand Trips & Tramps
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5.0 based on 217 reviews

Enjoy a friendly, small group (maximum 15 people) day excursion to Milford Sound from Te Anau, including a small boat cruise along the full length of the fiord and out to the Tasman Sea. Our relaxed timetable ensures plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy short walks, photographic stops and exploration with the nature guide. Plus, from November to April guests can select 2 ½ hours hiking (unguided) on the renowned Routeburn Track to Key Summit.

Inclusions: Afternoon or morning tea, Local driver/guide, Te Anau accommodation pickup and drop-off (if advised), Sightseeing boat cruise, Guided and Self-Guided Walking tours, Modern air conditioned minivan (max 15)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Queenstown pick ups - the tour departs from Te Anau

Reviewed By mike61119

Fabulous trip to Milford Sound today. Andrew's commentary and knowledge of the area was outstanding. Would definitely use Trips and Tramps again. Highly recommend for those looking to book in Fiordland. ????????????????????

8. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Te Anau

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 23 reviews

Premium small group tour including boutique Milford Sound cruise onboard TripAdvisors No.1 rated cruise operator, Cruise Milford, and picnic lunch from Te Anau. There is no better way to see this famous attraction. Highlights: • Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford • Fiordland National Park • Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel and Mitre Peak • Wildlife Spotting While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Cruise Entry, Picnic Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks

Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking

Reviewed By lauramareehay

Mark was an excellent tour guide with a lot of local knowledge. The bird sanctuary was eye opening to the number of native bird species and we even saw a morepork which was a first for us! We absolutely love Lord of the rings and we're happy that the tour could be altered to our interests slightly to incorporate a few more Lord of the rings spots. These additions did not add to much time to the overall travel time which was good! The Mavora lakes area was a highlight and had so many hidden filming spots. We appreciated having exploration time at each point for photos and to soak in the scenery to truely picture what is was like to film in these areas. We were thrilled to get our pictures taken in Amon Hen although it would have been better if we were able to get photos together. Some more in depth knowledge for Lord of the rings super fans would have been awesome like more behind the scenes facts unique to these locations. It was an awesome opportunity to actually walk through Fangorn forest, an activity not usually in the tour. Overall we loved the tour, it introduced us to some areas that we will have to return to!

9. Gourmet Food and Wine Tour From Queenstown with Lunch Included

Appellation Wine Tours
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4.9 based on 114 reviews

An indulgent and varied full-day tour seeing local sights, enjoying fresh cuisine and tasting a selection of fine wines, cheeses and handcrafted chocolates. Taste wines at 4 premium vineyards over 2 Central Otago wine regions. Included is the Gibbston Valley Wine Cave Tour, a splendid cheese and wine presentation and a divine local cuisine lunch. Visit the historic precinct of Old Cromwell and return to Queenstown via the must-see Arrowtown with time to take a stroll and sample locally made chocolates at one's leisure.... and step back in time to the gold rush, exploring heritage buildings!  To ensure an intimate experience with other wine lovers, numbers are limited to 12 people on the tour.

Inclusions: An exquisite lunch consisting of 5 dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and matched with wines., Wine tastings at 4 vineyards over 2 contrasting wine sub-regions, Knowledgeable Wine Guide with fascinating commentary, Transport by luxury vehicle, Courtesy hotel pickup and drop-off (write to us if yours is not listed)., Enjoy a lovely cheese platter at one of the vineyards, and take home artisan chocolates.

Exclusions: Gratuities, Alcoholic drinks or wine purchases (available to purchase)

Reviewed By JudeCatherwood

Great tour and great tour guide (Logan). We went to wineries I would not have considered visiting and they were all awesome. We had great receptions at each place. Domain Road was our favourite.

10. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Queenstown

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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4.9 based on 153 reviews

Premium small group tour including boutique Milford Sound cruise with Cruise Milford, the number 1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company, and picnic lunch from Queenstown. There is no better way to see this most famous of attractions. Highlights: • Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford • Fiordland National Park • Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel & Mitre Peak • Wildlife Spotting While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and little details that set our tours apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing stories and background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses that are packed with extras, ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Cruise Entry, Picnic Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks

Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase), Gratuities, Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking

Reviewed By tinanU2049PP

Lance was an excellent driver/Guide. He was patient and kept us entertained throughout-Thanks Lance!

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