New Zealand Historic sightseeing Tours & Trip Packages

New Zealand Historic sightseeing Tours & Trips

267 New Zealand trips. Tours from 115 tour companies. 443 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating.

33 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Historic sightseeing
South Island 13 Day Coast to Coast Highlights Tour
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By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Queenstown

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time we promise!

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
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Generous cancellation

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New Zealand in 16 days - Ultimate Land of the Long White Cloud - SUPERIOR
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By Exoticca
preferred
4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
Although they’re cheaper than other brands, they still make sure all parts of the trip, like hotels, meet a high minimum standard.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Very Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington

Highlights

  • Auckland
  • Christchurch
  • Queenstown
  • Rotorua
  • Wellington

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"The trip was well laid out. Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The only complaint is some of our travel documents that were sent out were not in English. If your sending documents out correspondence should be in both the native language and the language of the people the correspondence to. Other than that a great first time experience."

Trip dates & details
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Exploring New Zealand's Wonders featuring the North & South Islands - 2024
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington

Highlights

  • Experience an authentic Hangi dinner and learn about Maori culture.
  • Enjoy a BBQ on the western shore of Lake Wakatipu.
  • Cruise through the Bay of Islands’ famous “Hole in the Rock.”
  • Overnight in the spectacular Mt. Cook region where permanent ice fields and glaciers blanket the ragged peaks.
  • Visit Walter Peak High Country farm for a sheepdog demonstration.
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Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary about this trip! My Diary about our trip to South Dakota shorturl.at/efoX1"

Trip dates & details
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Lord of The Rings - Hobbiton Trilogies Film Locations - 14 Day Scenic Explorer
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By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Mount Cook, Nelson, Queenstown, Tongariro National Park, Waitomo, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time, try us - you'll like us AND you'll meet us!

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
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Generous cancellation

More
New Zealand: The South Island
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

  • Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
  • Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
  • Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
  • Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
  • Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This trip is unbelievably fantastic. Two of the best rides of my life, were on this tour. The guides were very good and this was just the start, when we met them, at the hotel in Cortina. Cortina was the site of the 1956 Olympics, and is a small pretty village. Nothing was open the two nights we were there, so probably bad timing. Hotel was a typical ski village hotel, good Italian/German food, and very comfortable. Second day of biking was up an old railroad spur that is now a ski trail about 15-20 K up to a mountain pass called Cimabanche Pass, which is beautiful. We rode up in a snow storm, then rain, then finally clear skies. This was the number two best ride of my life. Starting out from the hotel in Cortina, up the old spur, through single track bike trails, past babbling brooks, up to this fabulous mountain pass. This is now where the fun starts. Mostly downhill on paved roads very little traffic, at good speeds, through the most spectacular valleys you would ever see on a bike ride. Breathtaking. It had to end back at the hotel for a big dinner. The best ride of my life was the last biking day out of Merano. We were bused up 1500 K, about 85-90 miles to Lake Resia, high up in the Dolomites, then rode around the lake, down, back to Merano. High mountain peaks, many valleys,small towns, many grape growing farms, scenery, the best, and cool brisk weather. This was truly a great bike tour, one I will never forget. The trip is rated easy, but maybe easy/moderate is closer. The Hotel in Merano is excellent, middle of old town, modern, has a thermal bath, rooms were very good. The town of Merano is a must see if in the area, small, beneath the high mountains of the Dolomites, good restaurants, lots of tourists."

Trip dates & details
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Queenstown Southern Loop
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Queenstown

Highlights

  • Soak up the silence of Milford Sound on a cruise across its waters – you’ll be left speechless by the hundreds of tumbling cascades and deeply forested mountains.
  • Explore the Cathedral Caves of the Catlins, an untamed coastal wilderness home to rugged cliffs, dense forest, and spectacular hidden waterfalls.
  • Cross the Foveaux Strait to unspoilt Stewart Island, a haven for hikers and birdwatches and the place to spot a wild kiwi.
  • Enjoy two nights and one full day to explore the wilderness of Stewart Island, cruising the bays and inlets to spot penguins and seabirds and walking along its forested coastal tracks.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forest & Bird. Donations help them give nature a voice - protecting wildlife and wild places in Aotearoa New Zealand by advocating for conservation on the ground and at a government level.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Jewels of the Bay (Superior)
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By Trafalgar
preferred
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I thought all was very good except disappointed in Paris tour. Moulin Rouge excellent but city tour could have been shown more and closer up to landmarks."

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New Zealand Panorama
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By Trafalgar
preferred
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I thought all was very good except disappointed in Paris tour. Moulin Rouge excellent but city tour could have been shown more and closer up to landmarks."

Trip dates & details
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33 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Historic sightseeing
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New Zealand Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
443  Reviews
See all New Zealand tour reviews
Excellent
119
Great
42
Average
8
Disappointing
3
Terrible
0
M

Mike

Mar 2024

Written on

Self-designed 21 day trip to NZ

Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go ...

A

Anonymous

Apr 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

AWESOME NEW ZEALAND

This trip is one of the best we have experienced with Exodus. The varied walking, landscape and experiences on the trip make it an amazing adventure. Beware though...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

The best of New Zealand

What an amazing trip! I cannot recommend it highly enough - it showcasts everything that New Zealand has to offer, and despite travelling for 3 weeks it is not eno...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

An Unexpected Journey.

An excellent introduction to both islands. There is so much to see and do that the time we had just whizzed by. It is clear that this trip only just touches the su...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A wonderful trip.

This trip covers a lot of ground, with a packed itinerary and with plenty of walking in beautiful scenery. The weather was very kind to us - we even saw Milford So...

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New Zealand Tour Selection Trips

  • Even though many tours combine visits to New Zealand with Australia, consider making two separate trips since each is so rich in activities by itself.
  • Similarly, if your tour covers “only” either the South or North Island of New Zealand, you’ll have more time to get to know those areas better.
  • With the great distances traveled just to arrive in New Zealand, allow at least 10 days to two weeks for a tour – which won’t seem nearly enough.
  • If you’re flying across the Pacific to New Zealand for your tour, check into stopovers in Hawaii, Fiji or Tahiti – it will break up the long flight, sometimes at no extra charge.
  • Remember that the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere, so if you’d like warm weather, head down in the North American winter.

Additional details

Lord of the Rings Tours in New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its beautiful scenery, and one well known fact is that it was the location for many of the scenes in the original Lord of the Rings films. Over 150 locations in New Zealand were used in the filming of Lord of the Rings, from the north to the south island.

In a very unusual case, the set for Hobbiton, located in bucolic Waikato on the North Island was reinstalled as a permanent exhibit for fans to visit and enjoy. Normally sets like Hobbiton are unceremoniously torn down after filming ends, but fans kept visiting the area in droves and in an effort to protect the landscape, Hobbiton was reborn. This location is often featured on group tours of New Zealand. 

On the South Island, several sites within a day trip from Queenstown were utilized for Lord of the Rings. Your tour may include some or all of these in various ways. For example taking a jet boat excursion might reveal the mountains of Mordor, and a visit to the famous AJ Hackett bungy bridge is not far from the Kawarau Gorge where the fellowship rows between two towering statues as their quest begins. 

Hiking, Walking, and Relaxation Tours in New Zealand

If you want to experience New Zealand at a slower pace, try going on a perhaps you would be interested in an extended hiking or walking tour. By being out in the wilderness for more than just a few hours on a day hike, you will gain appreciation for New Zealand’s world-renowned geography.

You will also be able to experience a wider range of landscapes, depending on how long you plan to travel for and which National Parks you enter.

There are 13 main National Parks in New Zealand, each with its own unique attributes. To see glaciers, try visiting Mount Cook National Park. To immerse yourself in a tropical rainforest, visit Westland Tai Poutini. If altitude is something you seek, you’re best off visiting Mount Aspiring, Kahurangi, or New Zealand’s oldest National Park, Tongariro.

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