A Family Odyssey Across New Zealand
Duration 13 days
Price Guide From US$ 7,850
With bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers, postcard-perfect islands, and landscapes alive with rare wildlife, New Zealand is nature’s ultimate playground. From jet-boating through canyons and hiking beneath snow-capped peaks to quiet family moments on golden beaches, each day brings discovery. Blending adventure, wonder, and magic, it sets the stage for a family journey both unforgettable and transformative.
Our curated journeys include
We design thoughtfully curated experiences that balance comfort, discovery, and a touch of indulgence. Each journey with Orange Moon Travel includes:
- Handpicked stays in distinctive hotels and retreats
- Expertly guided explorations
- Seamless private transfers
- Specially selected experiences for every traveler
- Dedicated support from our travel specialists
Destinations and Highlights
Rotorua and Taupo
From steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools to sacred Maori traditions and twilight walks beneath lantern-lit redwoods, Rotorua blends geothermal wonder with cultural soul—an awakening for the senses.
Days 1-4
Wellington and Marlborough
New Zealand’s creative capital hums with film, food, and bohemian spirit, while the nearby Sounds invite you to sail crystalline waters alive with dolphins—where culture meets coastal calm.
Days 4-9
Kaikoura
Cradled between ocean and snowcapped peaks, Kaikoura offers rare marine encounters—whales, dolphins, and playful seals—set against one of the world’s most dramatic natural backdrops.
Days 9-11
Queenstown & Wanaka
From alpine heights and shimmering lakes to jet boats, heli-adventures, and vineyard evenings, Queenstown balances high-octane thrills with serene, soul-stirring beauty which is perfect for a family adventure.
Days 11-13
Highlights
Geothermal Wonders & Maori Spirit
Witness steaming geysers, bubbling mud pools, and immerse in Maori traditions beneath towering redwoods.Middle-earth Magic
Step into the Hobbiton movie set, wandering past Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, and storybook landscapes.Sounds of Serenity
Sail the Marlborough Sounds aboard a private yacht, gliding through tranquil waterways alive with dolphins.Marine Encounters on the Edge
In Kaikoura, spot giant sperm whales, playful dolphins, and swim with curious fur seals in pristine waters.Alpine Thrills & Lakeside Leisure
Queenstown beckons with jet-boating, heli-adventures, and serene moments by Lake Wakatipu and Wanaka.
Itinerary in detail
Rotorua & Taupo: Geothermal Heartland
Day 1: Arrival in Rotorua – Settle & Unwind
Arrive in Rotorua, where steaming landscapes and Maori warmth set the tone. Settle into your lodge and enjoy the evening at leisure surrounded by native forest and crisp, fresh air.
Day 2: Geothermal Wonders & Maori Culture
Wander through bubbling mud pools and geysers before venturing into native forest for gentle hiking or world-class mountain biking. Conclude the evening with a private Maori dinner and a lantern-lit Redwoods Night Walk.
Day 3: Adventure & Storytelling
Choose your adventure: glide through ancient forest canopies on a zipline, or tour the Hobbiton film set in Matamata, stepping into Middle Earth. The day blends adrenaline with storytelling unique to New Zealand.
Wellington: Creative Capital
Day 4: Journey to Wellington – Capital of Creativity
Travel to Wellington, nestled between emerald hills and a glittering harbor. This compact capital offers a blend of art, gastronomy, and soulful character—perfect for slowing the pace.
Day 5: Film & Fantasy
Step behind the scenes at Weta Studios, discovering props and magic from The Lord of the Rings and beyond. Dine amid cinematic memorabilia at CoCo at the Roxy for a night that feels like fantasy brought to life.
Day 6: Zealandia by Night
By torchlight, enter Zealandia Sanctuary. Hear kiwi calls, glimpse glowworms, and spot rare tuatara on a guided walk through one of the world’s most successful urban wildlife sanctuaries.
Marlborough Sounds: Coastal Serenity
Day 7: Marlborough Sounds – Water & Wilderness
Sail into the Marlborough Sounds, where tranquil waterways meet forested hills. A private yacht takes you deep into sheltered coves—keep watch for dolphins, seabirds, and the rare Hector’s dolphin.
Day 8: Charter Adventure
Board Beviamo, a luxury yacht, for a private charter through hidden inlets and turquoise bays. Swim, fish, or simply relax as your skipper reveals secrets of this pristine maritime paradise.
Kaikoura: Ocean & Peaks
Day 9: Kaikoura – Coastal Haven
Arrive in Kaikoura, framed by snow-capped peaks and ocean. This coastal gem is famed for its marine life and adventurous spirit, a place where wilderness feels at your doorstep.
Day 10: Whales & Seals
Head out by boat to watch giant sperm whales breach the surface, then don wetsuits for an unforgettable swim with playful seals in crystal-clear waters.
Queenstown & Wanaka: Alpine Playground
Day 11: Queenstown – Alpine Arrival
Arrive in Queenstown, a playground framed by alpine peaks and shimmering lakes. The afternoon is yours to relax or gently explore the lakefront promenade.
Day 12: Milford Sound by Helicopter
Soar above valleys and blue-green icefalls on a private helicopter before descending to Milford Sound for a fjord cruise past sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and dolphins. A truly cinematic day.
Day 13: Adventures & Farewell
Choose your thrill: a high-speed jet boat ride, a Funyak journey down the Dart River, or a serene hike in Wanaka. Conclude your New Zealand odyssey with one last sunset toast to a journey of family, nature, and wonder.