πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ NEW ZEALAND GROUP TRIP  Β·  SELF DRIVE

NEW ZEALAND.Group Trip Β· Self Drive

12 Days Β· North & South Island

See Itinerary πŸ”’ Block a slot
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πŸ“…
Nov 13–24, 2026
Trip Dates
πŸŒ™
12 Days Β· 11 Nights
Duration
πŸ‘₯
8–16 Pax
Group Size
🏨
Boutique Hotels
Accommodation
πŸ₯
11 Breakfasts
Meals Included
✈️
Auckland AKL
Fly Into
πŸš™
Self-drive SUVs
Road Trip
πŸͺ‚
Skydive Β· Fjord Β· Hobbiton
Headline
What You'll Do

15 Handpicked OJ Experiences

Every experience on this trip, straight from the brief, nothing padded.

01
Go whale watching in wild waters off Auckland πŸ‹ Day 2
02
Walk the Hobbiton movie set as a real-life Baggins πŸ§™ Day 3
03
Cover yourself in geothermal mud, Māori-style ♨️ Day 4
04
Kayak into glowworm caves after dark ✨ Day 4
05
Cruise through Milford Sound, waterfalls, fjords, seals β›΅ Day 6
06
Skydive or heli-tour with glacier landing πŸͺ‚ Day 7
07
Drive to Lake Pukaki & Lake Tekapo πŸš™ Day 8
08
See purple lupin flowers around lakes πŸ’œ Day 8
09
Stargaze in the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve ⭐ Day 8
10
Hike Queenstown Hill for sunset views πŸŒ… Day 7
11
Visit Mount Cook πŸ”οΈ Day 9
12
Chill with penguins and Antarctic storm simulation 🐧 Day 11
13
Feed kiwis, wallabies, and alpacas at wildlife park 🦘 Day 11
14
Live in handmade campervan option 🚐 Add-on
15
Road trip across South Island's scenic routes πŸ›£οΈ Days 5–10
Day by Day

The Itinerary

12 days. 2 islands. Fjords, skydive, glowworms, dark skies & kiwi birds. One unforgettable road trip.

Day 1

πŸ›¬ DAY 01: ARRIVE IN AUCKLAND

✈️ AKL Airport🌳 Botanical GardensπŸŒ™ Jetlag Reset
β–Ύ
OJ group Auckland arrival OJ group Auckland gardens

Today after we catch up with some sleep, we head to nearby botanical gardens for our trip briefing. Today we have no plans other than getting used to the new timezone. It will take a day or two to adjust .

Day 2

πŸ‹ DAY 02: WHALE WATCHING

β›΅ 4.5 Hr Cruise🐬 Bryde's Whales + DolphinsπŸŒ… Mt Eden Sunset
β–Ύ
Whale watching Hauraki Gulf Whale watching cruise Dolphins and whales NZ Marine wildlife Hauraki

We will start our day with a 4.5-hour cruise on board a 'Dolphin Explorer' as we explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of encounters with its amazing and diverse marine wildlife. As the crew provides knowledgeable commentary, our marine science experts conduct biological studies and invite you to join interactive research activities. We will leave by 10am and will be back to land by 3pm only. You can buy lunch onboard or even carry something to eat as well.

Day 3

πŸ§™ DAY 03: DRIVE TO ROTORUA

πŸš™ 3 Hr Drive🎬 Hobbiton Movie Set🌲 Jungle Walk
β–Ύ
Hobbiton Rotorua Rotorua tree walk lights OJ group Rotorua road trip Auckland to Rotorua drive Rotorua activities

Today, we will start our first roadtrip in New Zealand group trip : Auckland to Rotorua via Hamilton. First we will stop at Hobitton to see the lord of the rings set. The original set was not built to last, the hobbit hole facades having been constructed from untreated timber, ply and polystyrene and partially torn down after filming. In 2010, the set was rebuilt in a more permanent fashion for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, filming for which began in 2011.

Day 4

♨️ DAY 04: MUD SPA, GLOW WORMS & KAYAKING

♨️ Geothermal Mud🚣 Glowworm KayakπŸŒ™ Bioluminescent Caves
β–Ύ
Hells Gate Mud Spa Rotorua Rotorua glow worms cave Kayaking Rotorua Rotorua activity day 4

Today we start a little late and head straight to Mud spa. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Māori for over 800 years.

Day 5

✈️ DAY 05: FLY TO QUEENSTOWN

πŸš™ Rental Cars Returned✈️ Domestic Flight IncludedπŸ”οΈ Queenstown Arrival
β–Ύ

We will start early, drop the cars back in Auckland and catch an afternoon flight to Queenstown. Please book your trip with us atleast 3 months before so that we can book your domestic flight also with all others who have booked now.

Day 6

β›΅ DAY 06: MILFORD SOUND CRUISE

πŸš™ Long Drive Dayβ›΅ Fjord CruiseπŸ’¦ Waterfalls + Seals
β–Ύ
Milford Sound cruise Milford Sound fiord Milford Sound glacier waterfall OJ group Milford Sound

Milford Sound was formed during the last Ice Age, around 15,000 years ago, when glaciers carved out deep valleys in the mountains.

Day 7

πŸͺ‚ DAY 07: SKYDIVE/HELITOUR AND EVENING PICNIC HIKE

πŸͺ‚ Skydive (9k / 12k / 15k ft)🚁 Or Heli-GlacierπŸŒ… Queenstown Hill Picnic
β–Ύ
Queenstown skydive Helicopter snow glacier landing Queenstown Hill hike Queenstown evening hike signboard Queenstown evening picnic Queenstown adventure activity

We understand that. not all of you might want to do skydive but here is what i would say: It would be one of the happiest day of your life if you choose to do it. There are 3 altitude to dive from

Day 8

🚀 DAY 08: DRIVE TO LAKE PUKAKI

🚀 50 km/h Gorge Ride🌳 Wanaka Tree⭐ Lake Pukaki Stargazing (opt)
β–Ύ
Wanaka tree Lake Pukaki drive Lake Pukaki Mt Cook viewpoint Shotover Jet Queenstown Road trip to Lake Pukaki

No, we arent driving that red boat. That,s Shotover Jet waiting for you. This is a unique activity only available in New zealand. It is like an old fashion E ride at Disneyland. You will turn 360 degrees multiple times and also ride through a beautiful gorge at over 50 km per hour.

Day 9

πŸ”οΈ DAY 09: DRIVE CLOSER TO MOUNT COOK

πŸ”οΈ Aoraki / Mt CookπŸ₯Ύ Glacier Valley Walks🌌 Alpine Silence
β–Ύ
Mount Cook region

Today we drive closer to Mount cook and stay near one of the most beautiful region in south island. Today is our last day in the lap of New zealand's nature .

Day 10

πŸš™ DAY 10: REACH CHRIST CHURCH BY EVENING

πŸš™ 4 Hr DriveπŸ™οΈ South Island's Largest City🍷 Group Dinner
β–Ύ
Mount Cook Aoraki activities Drive to Christchurch

Today we drive to Christchurch, South islands biggest town. Today we drop our vehicles back and head out for a sumptuous dinner.

Day 11

🐧 DAY 11: ANTARCTICA CENTRE & CHRISTCHURCH WILDLIFE PARK

❄️ Antarctic Storm Sim🐧 Penguin Encounters🦜 Kiwi + Alpacas + Otters
β–Ύ
Christchurch wildlife park International Antarctic Centre Orana Wildlife Park alpaca Christchurch wildlife otters Christchurch wildlife capybara

Start your day in Christchurch with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre, where you'll experience the chill of an Antarctic storm and meet adorable penguins.

Day 12

✈️ DAY 12: DEPART FROM NEW ZEALAND

πŸš™ CHC Airport Drop✈️ Fly Home🧑 Group Hugs
β–Ύ

Today, take any flight home today. We recommend to fly from Christchurch to Auckland then Auckland to India on same airline you came to Auckland.

The Route

Auckland β†’ Queenstown β†’ Christchurch

A 7-stop road trip across both islands, volcanoes, fjords, alps, dark skies.

Auckland AKL Day 1–2 Β· Arrive + Whales Rotorua Day 3–4 Β· Hobbiton + Mud Queenstown Day 5–8 Β· Adventure Capital Milford Sound Day 6 Β· Fjord Lake Tekapo Day 8 Β· Dark Sky Mt Cook Day 9 Β· Alpine Christchurch CHC Day 10–12 Β· Depart Route Arrive (AKL) Queenstown Depart (CHC)
Auckland AKL, Arrive Day 1
Rotorua, Day 3–4 Β· Hobbiton + Mud
Queenstown, Day 5–8 Β· Adventure Capital
Milford Sound, Day 6 Β· Fjord
Lake Tekapo / Pukaki, Day 8 Β· Dark Sky
Mount Cook, Day 9 Β· Alpine
Christchurch CHC, Day 10–12 Β· Depart Day 12
Investment

Lock In Your Price

One batch, Nov 13–24, 2026. 8 slots only. Block with a token; balance due closer to departure.

Early Bird Price
USD 2,999
per person
πŸ’³ EMI available
Early Bird Ends In
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Days
:
–
Hrs
:
–
Min
πŸ”’ Block a slot Β· β‚Ή10,000 token
Regular Price Β· After Aug 13
USD 3,099
per person Β· excl. 5% GST
πŸ’³ EMI available

Standard price after the early bird window closes on Aug 13.

Book at Regular Price β†’
πŸ’Έ
You are loosing Rs.3,000 by not referring this trip to your friend Refer to 2 friends who might join you & all of you gets Rs.3,000 off each while you book together
Refer a Friend β†’
What's Covered

Inclusions & Exclusions

βœ… What's Included
βœ“Accommodation on twin sharing basis
βœ“All transport per itinerary
βœ“Entrance fees to scenic spots (unless noted)
βœ“Domestic flight: Auckland to Queenstown
βœ“Government taxes / service charges (excluding tips)
βœ“Whale watching cruise
βœ“Hobbiton visit
βœ“Mud spa experience
βœ“Jungle kayaking to glowworm caves
βœ“Milford Sound day trip
βœ“Picnic hike at Queenstown Hill
βœ“Shotover Jet boat ride
βœ“International Antarctic Centre
βœ“Willowbank Wildlife Reserve visit
βœ“All breakfasts
βœ“Permits
❌ What's Not Included
βœ—International flight tickets
βœ—Domestic flight (Christchurch to Auckland)
βœ—Lunch and dinner
βœ—Itinerary deviations
βœ—Visa
βœ—Skydiving / helicopter glacier activity costs
βœ—Star gazing at Lake Pukaki
Social Proof

What Trippers Say

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.8 Google Rating Β· 50+ Reviews
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

"It felt like living a scene from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, as I checked off core memories from my travel bucket list. I chose skydiving in Queenstown, Team OJ struck the perfect balance between adrenaline and nature. A surprise highlight was the Coldplay concert. Vyshak was not only knowledgeable about every destination but also ensured that every member of our group felt comfortable and included. By the end of our journey, those who were once strangers on Day 1 had transformed into friends. Team OJ stands out for their commitment to delivering not just adventures, but lifelong memories."

Aishwarya Warty
Aishwarya Warty
Google Review Β· New Zealand with OJ
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

"This was my third trip with One in the Orange Jacket and Vyshakh, after Egypt & Jordan and Bhutan,and each one has been unforgettable in its own way. From Dushanbe to Osh, through the Pamir mountains, every day brought breathtaking views, warm local stays, and seamless planning. We felt completely taken care of. But the best part? The people. We started as strangers and ended as a close-knit group,something that happens naturally on a Vyshakh-led trip. Grateful for yet another amazing journey."

Krithika Singhania
Krithika Singhania
Google Review Β· 3 trips with OJ
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

"I'm an adventure guide from Cape Town, South Africa, travelling solo for the first time. I know adventure, having taken in excess of 5000 guests personally on mountain hikes and adventure tours. This one was the best! To put it simply, it's the connection and immersion I experienced. The hospitality, connection, empathy and love I felt from this group of strangers made this trip one which I will cherish for the rest of my life. They've managed to curate an off the beaten track adventure experience that anyone can participate in."

Tauriq Gamildien
Tauriq Gamildien
Google Review Β· Adventure Guide, Cape Town
⭐ Click here to read what our trippers have to say β†’
Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the inclusions?

+
  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis
  • All transport per itinerary
  • Entrance fees to scenic spots (unless noted)
  • Domestic flight: Auckland to Queenstown
  • Government taxes / service charges (excluding tips)
  • Whale watching cruise
  • Hobbiton visit
  • Mud spa experience
  • Jungle kayaking to glowworm caves
  • Milford Sound day trip
  • Picnic hike at Queenstown Hill
  • Shotover Jet boat ride
  • International Antarctic Centre
  • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve visit
  • All breakfasts
  • Permits

(Note: visa is not included, see the Flight & Visa section above for the Notion guide.)

What are the exclusions?

+
  • International flight tickets
  • Domestic flight (Christchurch to Auckland)
  • Lunch and dinner
  • Itinerary deviations
  • Visa
  • Skydiving / helicopter glacier activity costs
  • Star gazing at Lake Pukaki

Do you have a cancellation policy?

+

If Plans Change, We've Got You We totally get it, life happens, and sometimes your plans have to take a rain check. That's why we've kept our cancellation policy simple, transparent, and as kind as possible.

β€’ 45+ days before the trip: 10% cancellation charge
β€’ 30–44 days before the trip: 25% cancellation charge
β€’ 15–29 days before the trip: 50% cancellation charge
β€’ Within 14 days of the trip: 100% cancellation charge

These are calculated on the total trip amount, not just the token amount.

Now, if you can find someone to take your spot, we'll happily refund your full amount. No questions asked. Because at the end of the day, we'd rather have someone travel than hold back your money.

To keep your spot confirmed, please clear the remaining balance by the due date, it helps us lock in stays, permits, and experiences for the group. If payments are delayed beyond that, we'll have to treat it as a cancellation (same policy applies).

What should you bring?

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πŸ§₯ Layers (the most important thing) Merino or thermal base layers, top + bottom (2) Β· Fleece mid-layer (1) Β· Light down / puffer jacket (1) Β· Waterproof shell / rain jacket, non-negotiable for Fiordland (1) Β· Waterproof overtrousers for rain days (optional but wise)

πŸ‘• Clothing Breathable hiking tees (4–5) Β· Comfortable trek pants (2) Β· Jeans (1) Β· One smart dinner outfit Β· Swimwear (mud spa + hotel pool) Β· Sleepwear

πŸ‘Ÿ Shoes & Accessories Waterproof hiking / trail shoes (broken-in, mandatory) Β· Comfortable city walkers Β· Flip-flops (glowworm cave + showers) Β· Warm beanie, gloves and buff (skydive + dark sky stargazing) Β· UV sunglasses

🧴 Skincare & Sun Protection SPF 50+ sunscreen (NZ is under the ozone hole, sunburn risk is real) · Lip balm with SPF · Moisturiser (cold-air skin is dry) · Insect repellent (sandflies in Fiordland are aggressive) · Basic first-aid kit

πŸŽ’ Travel Essentials Day backpack 25–30L Β· Reusable water bottle Β· Power bank Β· Type I plug adapter (NZ uses AS/NZS 3112, same as Australia) Β· Dry bag for kayak + Milford spray Β· Travel documents (passport, NZeTA printout, driving license, Indian licenses accepted) Β· Travel insurance proof

πŸ“Έ Photo Tips Bright jackets pop against the glacier / fjord greys, bring the orange, red, electric blue. A drone flies well in South Island wind (register with CAA if commercial). GoPro chest mount = best skydive + jet-boat POV.

I'm coming solo. Is that a problem?

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  • Most people come alone for my trips
  • About 25% of the people bring a friend or partner
  • Honestly it really doesn't matter
  • I have seen on all the batches I have led, most people really gel with everyone, even the ones who thought they wouldn't gel up, surprise themselves always with the way they got comfortable with everyone

What are trips like with OJ?

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Usually most batch sizes are between 12–14 people aged between 18–38. Most people come alone or with a friend. The trip would feel like you are travelling more with college friends than strangers. We tend to do more outdoorsy, experiential things than regular tours. If we find a beautiful sunset or a hidden spot, we stop the vehicle right away. We usually sleep very late because people play group games and feel they'll miss precious time with the group.

Do I need a New Zealand eTA / visa?

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Yes, Indian passport holders need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before boarding. It's an online application, usually approved in 72 hours, costs ~NZD 23 + IVL levy. A separate visitor visa is NOT required for stays under 3 months for tourism if you hold a valid NZeTA. Once you block your slot, we share a step-by-step NZeTA guide on WhatsApp with the application link, required documents, and turnaround tips from past trippers. Full flight + visa details live on our Notion page linked below the itinerary.

Is the skydive mandatory?

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No, the Day 7 skydive is fully optional. If skydiving isn't your thing, we've built in an equally epic alternative: a scenic helicopter flight to a snow landing on the Southern Alps glaciers. Both are booked directly with local operators and charged separately (see exclusions). For people who sit out both, Queenstown has plenty to fill the day, lakefront walks, the Skyline Gondola, the Kiwi Birdlife Park, or a session at the Onsen Hot Pools.

What's the weather like in November, do I need thermal layers?

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November is late spring / early summer in NZ. Expect 8–18Β°C in Auckland and Rotorua, and 5–16Β°C in Queenstown and Mt Cook country. Layers matter. Pack: base thermals (top + bottom), a fleece or light puffer, waterproof outer jacket (Fiordland rain is guaranteed), waterproof hiking shoes, one pair of warm gloves and a beanie for the Day 7 skydive + Day 8 Dark Sky stargazing. Day-time drives are often t-shirt weather; sunset drops 10Β°C in minutes. Sun is harsh, NZ is under the hole in the ozone, SPF 50 is not optional. Indian driving licenses are accepted, so bring yours.
Travel Planning

Flight & Visa Considerations

✈️
Flight & Visa Guide

Everything on fares, routing, Indian driving licenses, NZeTA application + timelines, baggage, and past-tripper tips lives on our Notion page, maintained in real time.

πŸ“‹ View Flight & Visa Guide β†’