NZ South Island Adventure

• Meet & greet session on Day 1 in Christchurch
• Visit the historic Cardrona Hotel along the Crown Range Road
• Marvel at the tranquil beauty of Lake Hāwea
• Explore the breathtaking Haast Pass with its lush rainforests and waterfalls
• Walk to the crystal-clear Blue Pools
• Witness the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier Viewpoint
• Immerse in Māori culture with a Pounamu greenstone carving workshop
• Free time to explore Franz Josef Glacier’s wild beauty
• Visit the iconic Hokitika Beach Sign
• Discover the natural wonder of Pancake Rocks and Blowholes in Punakaiki
• Drive through the stunning Arthur’s Pass across the Southern Alps
• Admire the unique limestone boulders at Castle Hill (Kura Tawhiti)
• Treat yourself to a delicious pie at the iconic Sheffield Pies
• Free time to explore Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand
• Opportunity for a beach bonfire night in Punakaiki (weather permitting)

Do I need a visa?

For most travelers, New Zealand is an accessible destination with a straightforward electronic travel authorization process. Citizens from visa waiver countries, including the UK, US, and many European nations, can visit New Zealand for up to three months without a visa. British citizens may stay for up to six months. However, all travelers from these countries must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arrival.

The NZeTA can be requested online or via a mobile app and is typically processed within 72 hours. It’s valid for up to two years and allows multiple entries. When applying, you’ll also need to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
*It’s important you check your own visa eligibility as we are not visa experts and the information above is general in nature. We’ve put together a blog covering all the above points and more ‘An Unofficial Visa Guide to Asia, Australia & New Zealand’.

What vaccinations do I need?

Similar to visas, we are not medical professionals and would hate to give you false or misleading information. We recommend you book an appointment with your doctor or local pharmacy to discuss your travel plans and what precautions you need to be aware of. They will provide up-to-date official guidance and will no doubt have your vaccination and immunisation history on file. All destinations and areas we travel to are generally low risk but best to be on the safe side. Click here for a useful resource provided by the UK NHS website.

Is travel insurance compulsory?

Travel insurance is an essential stage of your trip preparation. It’s not only a smart idea to get covered but it will also give your loved ones peace of mind. We actually require all customers to show proof of coverage at the beginning of the tour. We’ll need to see your name, area of cover and dates that the insurance is valid. It’s a good idea to get this sorted ASAP to ensure you’re covered for all eventualities.

Should I bring a backpack or a suitcase?

Most people do prefer travelling with a backpack and it’s generally easier when moving around but it’s not uncommon for some travellers to bring a suitcase. We suggest bringing something you are comfortable with carrying and lugging around. It’s also important to bring a small day bag, something that can hold enough for an overnight trip or those travel essentials. Click here to read a blog we wrote on this, ‘Backpack vs Suitcase - What is best for travelling?’

Is there a limit to my luggage weight?

We suggest keeping your packing simple. Each person is allowed up to 20kg for a large bag and 8kg for a small carry-on on the bus. This should be plenty for what you’ll need during the trip. Just remember, it’s best to leave the kitchen sink at home 🤣

Are there laundry services on tour?

Yes, you’ll find a few opportunities to do laundry throughout the trip, especially as many hostels in New Zealand offer coin-operated laundry facilities. That said, we recommend bringing enough essentials (like underwear) to last you at least the first two weeks, just to be on the safe side.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Yes, towels aren’t provided on the tour, so it’s recommended to bring a microfibre towel. They’re lightweight, quick-drying, and perfect for travel. Some hostels may offer a towel rental service, but not all, so it’s best to come prepared just in case!

How much spending money do I need?

Once you’ve booked your flights, paid for your trip, and sorted out travel insurance, you’re ready for your New Zealand South Island adventure! With all your accommodation, transport, and a few meals included, your spending money will depend on your personal preferences—whether you want to dine out often, enjoy a few drinks, or dive into some of the incredible optional experiences on offer.

New Zealand is world-renowned for its epic adventure activities and unique experiences, so it would be a shame to arrive on a tight budget and potentially miss out on bucket-list activities like bungy jumping, skydiving, or jet boating. We suggest budgeting a minimum of NZ$400–$600 (£200–£300) per week for meals that aren’t included and general daily expenses. Extra money for optional activities will depend on how many of these once-in-a-lifetime adventures you’d like to include in your trip.

Will there be a Whatsapp group?

Yes, absolutely! Around 1 week before your trip, you’ll get access to a private WhatsApp group for your tour. It’s an awesome way to connect with your fellow travellers and get to know your Group Leader ahead of time. You can start chatting, share pre-trip excitement, and ask any last-minute questions before the adventure kicks off!

If you haven’t already, join our Private Facebook Group. With over 8,500+ members, our community is what truly makes us special! It’s the perfect place to connect with past and future travellers, share experiences, and get tips on how everything works. Add yourself to the group and make a post to see who else has booked or is thinking about booking the same dates as you.

When should I plan to arrive?

We recommend planning your arrival in Christchurch the day before the trip begins to ensure you’re well-rested and ready to kick off the adventure. On Day 1, we’ll start bright and early at 9:00am at the hostel in Christchurch, so arriving with plenty of time beforehand means you can avoid any last-minute stress and fully enjoy the start of your NZ road trip!

Will I get an airport pickup?

Airport pickup is not included on this trip, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the hostel in Christchurch. Uber is a convenient and reliable option, ensuring an easy transfer from the airport. Be sure to arrive at a good time to settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead!

Which airport should I fly into?

Christchurch has one main international airport: Christchurch International Airport (AKL).

What’s the plan for Day 1?

Day 1 is all about kicking off your adventure and meeting your new travel family! We’ll start the day with a meet-and-greet session at 9:00am at the hostel in Christchurch, where we’ll go over the itinerary and what’s ahead for the journey. After that, we’ll hit the road and head towards Lake Tekapo, stopping along the way to soak in some of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. It’s the perfect start to an unforgettable South Island road trip!

What time does the tour finish?

The tour wraps up on the afternoon of the final day. After a scenic drive through Arthur’s Pass and stops at Castle Hill and the iconic Sheffield Pies, we’ll arrive back at the hostel in Christchurch at approximately 3:00pm. At this point, your guide will bid farewell, and it’s time to reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve made with your new travel family.

Should I plan to stay extra nights after the tour?

That’s entirely up to you! If you’d like to explore more of Christchurch, staying a couple of extra nights could be a great option. With vibrant cafes, stunning street art, and nearby attractions like the Banks Peninsula or Akaroa, there’s plenty to enjoy if you have the time.

If you’re unsure, chat with your tour leader at the beginning of the trip—they’ll have great advice on how to make the most of extra time in Christchurch. It’s a great way to extend your adventure and soak up more of New Zealand’s charm!

What happens after my tour?

It really depends from group to group… sometimes we’ll have a whole bunch of people hanging out once the tour has finished, travelling for days, weeks or even months together. But in others you’ll have many people going separate ways. As the trip unfolds you’ll soon learn about each other's travel plans and share ideas for what adventures lie ahead. The hardest part is saying your goodbyes and giving your last big hugs to the people who are leaving straight after the trip finishes.

Can I get help with return airport transfers?

Your tour leader is there throughout the trip and can give you tips and advice about your onward travel plans, including getting to the airport after the tour. While they’re happy to point you in the right direction, Uber is often the best and easiest option for airport transfers in Christchurch. It’s always a good idea to have your flights booked in advance, including any internal flights for after your tour, to ensure a smooth departure.

When should I book my return flight?

We recommend booking your return flight for later in the evening on the final day at the earliest. This allows plenty of time to get back to the airport and accounts for any potential delays during the day. The airport is approximately 15–20 minutes from the hostel in Christchurch, ensuring you can leave without stress and properly wrap up your South Island adventure.

Is there Wifi on tour?

Almost all the places we stay on tour have free WiFi, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family back home. There are certain places we visit that don’t, but we will always give you a heads-up in advance so that you can prepare and let your loved ones know you may be unreachable.

Can I travel solo/come alone?

Absolutely! The trips we offer are built for solo travellers and believe us… sharing new experiences with a group of new friends is one of the best things you can do. A large majority of the people that travel with us are 1st time travellers doing it alone so don’t worry, you’ll never be alone with us.

What’s the average age of people on these trips?

Our trips are specifically targeted towards individuals who are young at heart. If you’re between the ages of 18-39 and keen on a new adventure, you’re welcome to join us. We’ve found that the average age of our travellers is 22-32, we also get young travellers straight out of school as well as working professionals in their mid to late 30s.

How big are the group sizes?

We keep our group sizes small, with an average of 12 people per group, so that everyone gets to know each other and experience things at an enjoyable pace.

What’s included in the price?

We include most of the big-ticket items to make your trip stress-free, such as accommodation, transport, and a mix of included and optional activities. You’ll experience unique local highlights, secret stops, and adventures guided by a passionate Kiwi who’ll be with you every step of the way. With a bunch of meals included and heaps of insider tips and support, we’ve got the essentials covered so you can focus on making unforgettable memories on your South Island adventure!

What’s not included?

You’ll just need to sort your international flights, travel insurance, visas and spending money 🙌🏼 Additionally, optional activities, meals not included in the itinerary, airport transfers, and pre/post-tour accommodation are your responsibility. Don’t worry, we’re here to help and support you every step of the way to make your trip as hassle free as possible!

Do we stay in hostels or hotels?

The accommodation on our trips is something we’re proud of! You’ll stay in some of New Zealand’s best hostels, carefully chosen for their comfort, security, and great locations. Along the way, we’ve included some unique stays, like a cosy Adventure Lodge in Franz Josef and hostels with stunning alpine or lakeside views in places like Lake Tekapo and Punakaiki. It’s all about embracing the social, laid-back vibe of dorm-style accommodation while enjoying the incredible landscapes and unforgettable stops the South Island of New Zealand has to offer!

Do you cater for specific dietary/allergy requirements?

We will make every effort to accommodate your dietary requirements and ensure that you have meals along the way. Please provide details about your dietary needs during the booking process, and as a reminder, mention them again on Day 1 at our Welcome Meeting to ensure we have you covered.

Can I combine more than 1 trip together?

Absolutely! Many of our travellers choose to combine two or more of our trips, and we’ve designed our schedule to make it easy for you to do just that. Often, you can finish one trip on the same day another one begins, so you can keep the adventure going. After all, if you’ve already booked the flights, why not maximise your time? If you’re thinking of combining trips, get in touch - we’d love to help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

How do I book?

Booking your trip couldn’t be easier, find a trip that takes your fancy, pick a date, reserve your spot with a deposit and get that flight booked…

We always recommend reserving your spot before booking your flight. When our trips are full… unfortunately, they are FULL 😬 Check out our ’How it Works’ page for more information on booking your trip!!

This all seems too good to be true, how do I know it’s legit?

This is a question we recently added to our FAQs as we hear it time and time again, so we wanted to give you all a few ways to verify who we are;

• We are a UK registered company No.10549017
• Read our reviews on Facebook, Google & Trustpilot
• Join our Facebook Group ‘Feel Free Family’
• Follow our journey on Instagram