New Zealand: Guided 90-Day Tour of North & South Islands

Exploring New Zealand in 90 Days: A Full Breakdown of ZigZag’s Epic Guided Tour

Imagine spending three months traversing the north and south islands of New Zealand, with all the logistics handled, and you just get to enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and local culture. For $12,277 per person, ZigZag Tours offers a comprehensive 90-day adventure that is, quite frankly, the longest and most complete road trip you can take in Aotearoa. From the vibrant streets of Queenstown to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the stunning Fiordland landscapes, this tour packs in over 8,300 kilometers of scenic beauty and iconic sights.

What really draws us in is the combination of guided convenience and authentic experiences—like sampling wine in premium regions, hiking famous trails, or even landing on glaciers. Plus, with a small group limited to 10 travelers, you won’t be lost in the crowd. Two guides keep the journey smooth and engaging, making sure no detail gets overlooked. And yes, you will sleep in your own large canvas tent, which is surprisingly comfortable and adds a real sense of adventure.

However, this is a long tour, and it demands a fair amount of time and flexibility. If you’re not keen on long road days or want a more relaxed or shorter trip, this might feel a bit rigorous. But if you’re a traveler who dreams of a deep dive into New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry, this tour could be your perfect match.

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits willing to embrace both the outdoors and the unpredictability of a long journey. It suits those who want to see everything from Hobbiton to Mount Cook, hop on a glacier, and sip wine in world-famous regions—all in one seamless trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Extensive Coverage: Over 8,300 km of New Zealand scenery, visiting more than 100 sights.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and camaraderie.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes most meals, camping gear, and attractions, making planning simpler.
• Authentic Activities: From cultural dinners to glacier landings and wine tasting.
• Flexible and Relaxed Pace: Designed to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Ideal for Full-Immersion Travelers: Those wanting a deep, comprehensive experience over three months.

The Realities of a 90-Day Adventure

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Major Stop

Starting in Christchurch—the gateway to your journey—you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers in the Tasman Holiday Park. This city blends history and modernity, with a vibrant arts scene and excellent local food. It’s a good base for exploring the nearby Canterbury Plains and the imposing Southern Alps.

From there, your journey begins with a mix of iconic sights and hidden gems. You’ll visit Queenstown, often called the adventure capital of the world, where you can try jet-boating or bungee jumping, or simply soak in the views of Lake Wakatipu framed by rugged mountains. Many reviews praise Queenstown as a highlight, especially for its stunning scenery and lively atmosphere.

The Green Dragon pub at Hobbiton offers a whimsical experience, letting you walk through the famous movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, followed by a cozy brew in the pub. Such cultural touches are sprinkled throughout, adding depth beyond natural beauty.

Rotorua is your geothermal playground, with bubbling mud pools, geysers, and Maori cultural performances. The tour includes a Maori dinner and show, giving you a taste of the indigenous culture, which travelers often find enriching and fun.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Tongariro Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous hikes. If you prefer less strenuous walks, Abel Tasman National Park offers stunning beaches and mellow hikes. Guided glacier landings at Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are included, with opportunities to climb, fly over, or even land on the ice—something many reviews say is an unforgettable highlight.

In the South Island, you’ll experience the Marlborough Sounds, Queenstown’s adventure activities, Fiordland’s awe-inspiring Milford and Doubtful Sounds, and the charming Bay of Islands with its historic significance and marine wildlife.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The diversity of landscapes is staggering. You’ll see snow-capped mountains, lush rainforests, golden beaches, and dramatic fiords—all within the span of a few days. Traveling via scenic routes and highways, all chosen for their breathtaking views, ensures that your travel time is part of the experience, not just transit.

Cultural and culinary experiences are woven into the journey. Sample local wines in regions like Marlborough and Central Otago, renowned worldwide for their Pinot Noir. The included Maori cultural dinner and visit to the Weta Workshop in Wellington deepen your understanding of New Zealand’s indigenous heritage and creative industries.

Hands-on activities like the curling session at Naseby or exploring Glow Worm caves in Ngarua are fun surprises that break up the driving days and create memorable moments.

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Comfort and Convenience

The use of a customized Mercedes Sprinter van with leather seats, air conditioning, and USB charging makes long days more comfortable. Your own large canvas tent with a camping bed and chair ensures a restful sleep, even in more remote locations. Meals are mostly included—87 breakfasts, 65 dinners, and a few lunches—making budgeting easier and allowing you to focus on enjoying rather than planning.

Small Group Benefits & Limitations

With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour maintains a personalized atmosphere. The guides, often named as engaging and knowledgeable, ensure each day is thoughtfully planned, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or explore additional activities.

On the flip side, the tour requires flexibility. It proceeds with a minimum of six travelers, and given its length, it’s best suited for those with a fairly open schedule. The large number of locations means you’ll spend significant time on the road—something to consider if you prefer more leisure or fewer stops.

Price & Value

At over $12,000, this tour is a substantial investment. But considering it includes most meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and activities, it offers a good value for a comprehensive, worry-free experience. The guided aspect saves you hours of planning and navigating, allowing you to simply soak in the sights and sounds.

Is it for You?

If you’re craving a deep, all-encompassing trip to New Zealand, and you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary that covers a lot of ground, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the country’s highlights but also enjoy some authentic cultural encounters, outdoor adventures, and the comfort of a guided group.

The Sum Up

This 90-day guided tour from ZigZag Tours is a rare opportunity to explore nearly every corner of New Zealand in one seamless journey. It balances adventure, culture, and relaxation—for those willing to commit to a long trip that truly covers the country’s diversity. The group size, thoughtful itinerary, and inclusion of many iconic sites and activities make it an excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive Kiwi experience without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

The trip’s biggest appeal lies in its depth of exploration and authenticity, from Maori performances to glacier landings and wine tastings. It’s an ideal adventure for curious, active travelers eager to see New Zealand in its full glory, and who appreciate the comfort of guided travel combined with the thrill of outdoor pursuits.

If you’re ready to dedicate three months to discovering the best of New Zealand, this tour offers a well-organized, memorable, and truly epic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
This tour involves moderate physical activities like hiking and glacier landings. It is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges.

Do I need to prepare or bring my own camping gear?
No, all camping gear—including your large canvas tent, camping bed, and chair—is supplied as part of the package. Just bring suitable clothing and personal items.

What is included in the meal plan?
Most breakfasts and dinners are included—87 breakfasts and 65 dinners—plus tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Lunches are not included, so you can plan accordingly.

Can I customize the itinerary or upgrade accommodations?
The tour includes standard camping accommodation; upgrades or alternative accommodations are not specified. For specific requests, it’s best to contact ZigZag Tours directly.

What weather should I expect?
New Zealand’s weather varies widely across regions, so pack layers for rain, sun, and cold. The tour is designed to be flexible with weather conditions.

Is this tour good for families or children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to its length and activity level.

How many guides will be with the group?
Two experienced driver/guides lead the tour, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it relatively flexible if your plans change.

Embarking on this 90-day journey requires commitment, but for those eager to truly know New Zealand, it promises an adventure filled with spectacular sights, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences—everything you need for the trip of a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: