Queenstown Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing Tours &amp; Trips

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."

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9 days From$5,045

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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

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, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, 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 on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

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."

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-12%$3,990

21 days From$3,500

Generous cancellation

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Timeless Wonders of New Zealand

By XperieNZ

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

2 reviews

Private Guided

Why we love them

XperieNZ is renowned for curating extraordinary travel experiences that blend luxury with adventure, offering bespoke journeys to discerning travelers

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Glenorchy, Rotorua, Waitomo

Highlights

Private Personalised Regional & City Sightseeing Tour – Auckland
Private Spellbound Glowworm Tour – Te Kuiti, Waitomo
Te Pa Tu, Māori Cultural Evening with Seasonal Fusion Gourmet Dinner - Rotorua
Private guided Hell’s Gate tour with Mud and Sulfur Bath – Rotorua
Te Puia, Geyser by Night (Thu to Sun) – Rotorua

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Thank you for our recent memorable South Island trip. Our experience with Xperienz was amazing! Xperienz has an excellent blend of professional and personal service. All the places that Kumar suggested and the cruises he booked us in were outstanding. On his recommendation, we were able to discover some amazing parts of the country off the beaten track. Thank you Kumar!! We look forward to exploring more beautiful spots in New Zealand with Xperienz"

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-12%$13,200

15 days From$11,579

Generous cancellation

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Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail

By Intrepid Travel

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

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

Queenstown

Highlights

Cycle the spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail, the oldest rail trail in the country and voted 'New Zealand's Favourite Ride' for the past two years.
Ring along flat, traffic-free paths alongside some of the South Island's most stunning scenery.
Begin your journey in Queenstown, an outdoor paradise set among the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand.
Experience firsthand the famous hospitality of New Zealanders on a trail built specifically to cater to cyclists.
Cycle in the company of an experienced guide as they share their unique perspective of this fascinating region.

Themes

Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

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."

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-26%$1,809

4 days From$1,340

Health Safety +

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Lord of The Rings - Hobbiton Trilogies Film Locations - 14 Day Scenic Explorer

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

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

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-12%$2,770

14 days From$2,430

Generous cancellation

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South Island 13 Day Coast to Coast Highlights Tour

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

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

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-12%$2,075

13 days From$1,820

Generous cancellation

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Ski New Zealand: 8 Day Snow Safari (Queenstown to Christchurch)

By Intrepid Travel

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

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

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Moderate

Visits

Alps, Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

Experience New Zealand's finest snow fields at Mt Hutt, Ohau, Treble Cone, The Remarkables, Cardrona and Coronet Peak.
This trip offers thrills for beginners and experts alike - just strap on your skis and let our expert crew point you in the right direction.
Enjoy the benefit of local knowledge as our experienced crew show you the best runs and powder stashes across six different mountains.
Spend a night under a carpet of stars in the world's largest International Dark Sky Reserve.
Rest your legs and enjoy New Zealand away from the snow at the adventure playgrounds of Wanaka and Queenstown.

Themes

Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

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-29%$2,968

8 days From$2,120

Health Safety +

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New Zealand South Island Family Journey

By Classic Journeys

none

4.9/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

Walking from a rain forest on to Fox Glacier
Panning for gold
Cruising though spectacular Fiordland National Park

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Family Friendly, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Train & Rail Journeys, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"Life changing! Alex our guide incredibly knowledgeable, caring and has a great sense of humor. If I needed a day to relax (and perhaps shop) it was totally encouraged and acceptable - Porto Fino amazing! The itinerary and hotels spot on! I’m ready to go back, maybe the Amalfi Coast!!! Don’t hesitate, book the guided trip now!!"

By VBT Bicycling Vacations

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9 days From$4,995

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New Zealand: The South Island

premier

4.6/5 Excellent

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

Save this trip to your favorites or other list

9 days From$5,045

Save this trip to your favorites or other list

21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

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, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, 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 on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

What travelers are saying

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-12%$3,990

21 days From$3,500

Generous cancellation

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Ultimate New Zealand

By Intrepid Travel

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

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

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Alps, Christchurch, Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington

Highlights

Cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands on a full-day adventure on the water to see some of the north island’s natural beauty. This area is also a Marine Reserve with volcanic origins over 11 million years old, creating some pretty epic biodiversity.
Discover the diversity of Rotorua, from unbelievable geothermal activity to rich Maori culture. Visit a Maori village for a hangi dinner and traditional haka performance.
Admire the out-of-this-world landscapes of Tongariro National Park, from emerald green lakes to soaring volcanic peaks. If you’re up for the challenge, tackle the famous Tongariro Crossing.
Live it up in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Whether you fancy bungy jumping, jet boating, horseback riding or wine tasting, there’s something here to entice everyone.
Visit a local gallery in Franz Josef and carve a pendant out of pounamu while learning about the precious stone’s significance to Maori culture.

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

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-0%$7,980

24 days From$7,980

Health Safety +

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Timeless Wonders of New Zealand

By XperieNZ

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

2 reviews

Private Guided

Why we love them

XperieNZ is renowned for curating extraordinary travel experiences that blend luxury with adventure, offering bespoke journeys to discerning travelers

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Glenorchy, Rotorua, Waitomo

Highlights

Private Personalised Regional & City Sightseeing Tour – Auckland
Private Spellbound Glowworm Tour – Te Kuiti, Waitomo
Te Pa Tu, Māori Cultural Evening with Seasonal Fusion Gourmet Dinner - Rotorua
Private guided Hell’s Gate tour with Mud and Sulfur Bath – Rotorua
Te Puia, Geyser by Night (Thu to Sun) – Rotorua

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

What travelers are saying

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-12%$13,200

15 days From$11,579

Generous cancellation

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Walking in New Zealand

By Explore!

premier

4.8/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Visits

Abel Tasman National Park, Alps, Auckland, Bar, Christchurch, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasman National Park, Tongariro National Park, Wellington

Highlights

Dramatic landscapes including mountains, glaciers and fiords
Walks in stunning scenery
Visit Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown

What travelers are saying

"Overall an excellent trip, easy cycling with an e-bike (which is needed on the last two days of cycling unless you are very used to riding up hills). Very good standard of hotels. Martin was a brilliant guide and also arranged some lovely restaurants for the group meals. Lots of beautiful coastal scenery. This was the first trip on the refreshed itinerary and there is some fine tuning needed on timings on the day we get the short Ferry."

Best Queenstown Luxury Tours

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-19%$9,434

19 days From$7,670

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Queenstown Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5 Excellent

306 Reviews

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Patti

Oct 2023

Written on

Wonderful and Varied Adventure

This is an excellent trip with a great variety of activities and adventure. A train into the mountains, biking, hiking, kayaking, glaciers, ocean, rainforest, and po...

Heide

Oct 2023

Written on

New Zealand's adventure - a Rousing Success

Unexpected wildlife and plant growth, and land features constantly, with breathtaking beauty, and with an air of untouched freshness. Oh, and the cycling was excitin...

Patti

Oct 2023

Written on

Wonderful and Varied Adventure

This is an excellent trip with a great variety of activities and adventure. A train into the mountains, biking, hiking, kayaking, glaciers, ocean, rainforest, and po...

jbird

Oct 2023

Written on

Really fun trip

New Zealand is a beautiful country with really fun and interesting people. But the trip leaders made this an exceptional experience. The trip was well organized and ...

TomWS

Oct 2023

Written on

Amazing

We had an incredible time on our VBT multi-sport adventure to New Zealand. This was our third VBT trip. New Zealand is a special place and our guides, Jan, Josie and...