Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to Aotearoa (New Zealand) the land of the long white cloud. Make your way to your hostel and then go and explore the city, we recommend starting at the waterfront which is a down hill walk from your accommodation. Meet your Guide at 4pm for an introduction to your tour and a welcome drink before heading out for a group dinner together.
Accommodation: Central city hostel
Free activities: Walk the waterfront
Included activities: Welcome drink
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Tui - 20 Day North to South (One-way)
Day 1: Arrival Auckland
Day 2: Auckland Island Experience
Auckland has one of the best harbours in the world and it’s known locally as the “City of Sails”. Today you’ll get to experience Auckland from the water as we head out to Rangitoto Island for the day. This dormant volcano which is 1 of 44 in the region sits just out from the city in the Waitemata harbour, the views are simply stunning from the city scape and out to the gulf and surrounding islands. It’s the perfect way to get you in the groove with this amazing country and clear your head to get you ready for the amazing experience over the next 23 days of non-stop adventure!
Accommodation: Central city hostel
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Included activities: Water taxi to Rangitoto Island, hike a volcano
Accommodation: Central city hostel
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Included activities: Water taxi to Rangitoto Island, hike a volcano
Day 3: Auckland to Hahei
Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ (goodbye) to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ (hello) to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. This gorgeous little place will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast eternally). When the tides are right, we’ll drive over to the nearby Hot Water Beach and dig ourselves an all-natural hot pool in the sand. Who said backpackers can’t do luxury?
Accommodation: Cabin accommodation by the beach
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies en-route - Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner
Optional activities: Kayaking or Hahei Explorer
Free activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach
Accommodation: Cabin accommodation by the beach
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies en-route - Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner
Optional activities: Kayaking or Hahei Explorer
Free activities: Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach
Day 4: Hahei to Rotorua
Rise and shine for an early start this morning as you walk to Cathedral Cove to watch the sunrise.
Then it’s straight back into the bus for our journey to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Before we get to Rotorua, we’ll stop for an incredibly scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and then we’ll head to the home of the Hobbit and enjoy a tour of the real movie set, which was created right here in Middle Earth! When we arrive in Rotorua, head for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest and then explore the township. There are so many activities
available in Rotorua - ask your guide for options!
Accommodation: Central Rotorua hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Hobbiton
Free activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk
Then it’s straight back into the bus for our journey to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Before we get to Rotorua, we’ll stop for an incredibly scenic walk through the Karangahake Gorge and then we’ll head to the home of the Hobbit and enjoy a tour of the real movie set, which was created right here in Middle Earth! When we arrive in Rotorua, head for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest and then explore the township. There are so many activities
available in Rotorua - ask your guide for options!
Accommodation: Central Rotorua hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Hobbiton
Free activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk
Day 5: Rotorua to Lake Aniwhenua
This morning we’ll head to Kuirau Park where we’ll see some geothermal activity, boiling mud pools and steaming lakes!
After hanging out in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, you’ll probably feel ready to experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. Today we venture off the beaten track to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a local Maori family who are passionate about their Maori tribal heritage and their local community. You'll see sacred Maori rock carvings, play traditional stick games and watch the preparation of a ground cooked 'hangi',
before tasting it for yourself! Prepare your tastebuds - this will probably be the best meal you eat in New Zealand, or maybe even in your lifetime!
Exclusive experience includes:
- 1 night’s accommodation at the serene lakeside Kohutapu Lodge
- Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert
- Continental breakfast
- Guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings
- Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history and challenges
Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins
Included activity: Learn the Haka, Maori flax weaving
Meals included: Breakfast, full traditional hangi dinner and dessert
Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball, Maori cultural games
After hanging out in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, you’ll probably feel ready to experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. Today we venture off the beaten track to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a local Maori family who are passionate about their Maori tribal heritage and their local community. You'll see sacred Maori rock carvings, play traditional stick games and watch the preparation of a ground cooked 'hangi',
before tasting it for yourself! Prepare your tastebuds - this will probably be the best meal you eat in New Zealand, or maybe even in your lifetime!
Exclusive experience includes:
- 1 night’s accommodation at the serene lakeside Kohutapu Lodge
- Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert
- Continental breakfast
- Guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings
- Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history and challenges
Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins
Included activity: Learn the Haka, Maori flax weaving
Meals included: Breakfast, full traditional hangi dinner and dessert
Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball, Maori cultural games
Day 6: Lake Aniwhenua to Taupo
Rise and shine! Enjoy your buffet breakfast and get ready for a day of jam-packed adventure. Keep your togs (swimwear) handy, because our first stop is Kerosene Creek - a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak. Then it’s on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the mighty Huka Falls, grab lunch and take a walk to explore or simply relax at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Centrally located hostel by the lake
Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo
Accommodation: Centrally located hostel by the lake
Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo
Day 7: Taupo to Tongariro National Park
This morning we’ll head to the iconic Tongariro National Park for an adventurous couple of days. On arrival at the park we’ll receive a safety briefing for our canoe tour along the Whanganui river, part of one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Whanganui National Park is covered in lush native forest with the Whanganui River flowing through the heart of it, and this is where you’ll be canoeing today. The river is rich with Maori and European history, the largest reminder of which is the famous ‘Bridge to Nowhere’. Paddling downstream you’ll see waterfalls, spectacular sheer gorges and farmland - views for days!
Accommodation: Alpine chalets
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Included activity: Guided canoe tour along the Whanganui River
Accommodation: Alpine chalets
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Included activity: Guided canoe tour along the Whanganui River
Day 8: Tongariro National Park
Limber up! Today you get the chance to tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Considered one of the world’s top one-day walks, this 19 km hike takes you across a rocky plateau with dramatic volcanic peaks, craters and turquoise lakes that you (and your Instagram feed) will remember for a lifetime. The Crossing is open to walk year-round (alpine gear and guide are required in winter), but it is subject to the weather conditions. If the weather prevents you from doing the Crossing, there are other awesome short-walks in the area. Tonight, unwind after a big day in your chalet.
Accommodation: Alpine chalets
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing transfers
Meal options: : Pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water
Free activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool)
Accommodation: Alpine chalets
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activities: Tongariro Alpine Crossing transfers
Meal options: : Pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water
Free activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool)
Day 9: Tongariro National Park to Wellington
Onwards to Wellington, the ‘coolest little capital in the world’! Wellington packs a lot of character into its downtown district, with great restaurants and bars along Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. Fill your afternoon by browsing through the exhibits at Te Papa National Museum, grab a craft beer at a brewery, climb to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views or take a stroll along the waterfront and Oriental Parade. Oh and, most importantly for the coffee lovers, you’ll be glad to know that Wellington’s coffee culture and cafe scene is considered one of the best in NZ.
Accommodation: Central city hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views, visit Te Papa National Museum, Gumboot (welly) throwing
Accommodation: Central city hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views, visit Te Papa National Museum, Gumboot (welly) throwing
Day 10: Wellington to Marahau (Abel Tasman)
Today we’ll catch an early Ferry across the Cook Strait and through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck to witness some incredible scenes and spot some wildlife. From there we’ll set off through the picturesque Marlborough region to Marahau, our accommodation is situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park - perfect for exploring arguably the best National Park in NZ.
Accommodation: Waterfront accommodation
Optional paid activities: Wine tasting (usually $5-10)
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free activity: Stargazing
Included activity: Ferry Crossing to the South Island
Accommodation: Waterfront accommodation
Optional paid activities: Wine tasting (usually $5-10)
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies - Self-cater or join the optional group dinner
Free activity: Stargazing
Included activity: Ferry Crossing to the South Island
Day 11: Marahau (Abel Tasman)
Count yourself lucky because you have a full day to explore New Zealand’s most popular national park today. From our accommodation we’ll be picked up and taken by water taxi to Anchorage Bay, admiring the park’s natural golden sand beaches and brilliant blue waters along the way. Enjoy a picnic on the beach before checking out Cleopatra’s Pools, moss lined fresh water pools with a natural water slide and then, we’ll walk approximately 4 hours back to our accommodation, stopping along the way to take amazing photos and swim in the secluded bays.
Accommodation: Waterfront accommodation
Included activity: Water taxi into Anchorage Bay
Optional paid activities: Kayaking, skydiving, canyoning - (PM)
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQs
Free activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools
Accommodation: Waterfront accommodation
Included activity: Water taxi into Anchorage Bay
Optional paid activities: Kayaking, skydiving, canyoning - (PM)
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQs
Free activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools
Day 12: Marahau (Abel Tasman) to Franz Josef
Buckle up for an awesome day driving down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast, an area known for its untamed beaches and spectacular rainforest. Through Buller Gorge and down a stretch of road named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, there’s not much phone reception but you are NOT going to need it - we dare you to peel your eyes away from the window for even just a second. We’ll stop at Cape Foulwind and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of coastline before continuing on to the quaint township of Franz Josef, set amongst the rainforest. Tonight, we’ll have a group dinner together at our accommodation.
Accommodation: Central hostel accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Cape Foulwind, Buller Gorge, Pancake Rocks and blowholes, Hokitika
Accommodation: Central hostel accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Cape Foulwind, Buller Gorge, Pancake Rocks and blowholes, Hokitika
Day 13: Franz Josef Glacier
Ice, ice baby! Get ready to experience the Franz Josef Glacier, an iconic highlight of the West Coast. Take a short drive to the beginning of the track. Hike through native bush and across glacial streams to the terminal face of the glacier for spectacular photos or just hang out at the Retreat and relax in one of NZ’s largest spa pools.
Accommodation: Central hostel accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Shuttle to the track
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Glacier hike, bush tracks, soak in the spa
Accommodation: Central hostel accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Shuttle to the track
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Glacier hike, bush tracks, soak in the spa
Day 14: Franz Josef to Queenstown
It’s another scenic journey today with plenty of photo stops. First up is the amazing Lake Matheson, known as the mirror-lake, for a short walk. We travel inland through the mountainous Haast Pass and alongside beautiful Lake Hawea to arrive at the Kawarau Bridge on our way into town a.k.a. the first commercial bungy jumping site in the world. If you’re feeling brave you can tick the bungy off your bucket list or if you’d prefer to just watch then you can cheer your mates on from the viewing platform! Once settled, put on your dancing shoes and head out to explore this lakeside resort, there are over 100 clubs and bars to choose from in Queenstown!
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Puzzling World, skydiving, mountain biking, pilot your own stunt plane or learn to fly and take a friend for free, bungy jumping
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Watch people jumping off a bridge!
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Puzzling World, skydiving, mountain biking, pilot your own stunt plane or learn to fly and take a friend for free, bungy jumping
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Watch people jumping off a bridge!
Days 15-16: Queenstown (2 Days)
Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! You’ve got 2 full days in the adventure capital. With an awesome night life, beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers refuse to leave this place.
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we wild Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…)
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Optional paid activities: Any adventure activity that we wild Kiwis can dream up (bungy, swing, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, zipline, horse riding…)
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak
Day 17: Milford Sound Day Trip
Today you’ll hop aboard the Coach and we’ll take you to the stunning and world famous Milford Sound. After a super scenic drive, you’ll board the boat and cruise across the Sound. Look out for the impressive Mitre Peak, lush rainforests and (if it’s been raining) thundering waterfalls. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot lots of amazing wildlife like Fur Seals, Penguins and Dolphins. Once you’ve snapped as many pics as you possibly can, it’s back to Queenstown where you can check out some one of the many restaurants Queenstown has to offer or try the famous Fergburger!
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Day trip to Milford Sound
Accommodation: Central Queenstown hostel
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Day trip to Milford Sound
Day 18: Queenstown to Lake Tekapo
It’s a short drive to Lake Tekapo this morning where we’ll see an electric blue lake framed by the Southern alps. Walk over to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, a quaint stone church right on the edge of the lake for some awesome photo opportunities. In the afternoon, take a hike up to the Mount John Observatory to see the incredible views, or if you'd rather just have a ‘self-care’ afternoon, then the Tekapo Hot Springs are the perfect place to relax. Tonight, we’ll head to the team at Dark Sky for their Summit Experience where you’ll have the chance to stargaze at one of the best stargazing spots in the country.
Accommodation: Tekapo accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Dark Sky Summit Experience
Optional paid activities: Tekapo Hot Springs, Ice Skating, Snow tubing
Meal options: Self catering in the hostel kitchen or local bars and restaurants
Free activities: Mount John Observatory Hike, Church of the Good Shepherd, stargazing
Accommodation: Tekapo accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Dark Sky Summit Experience
Optional paid activities: Tekapo Hot Springs, Ice Skating, Snow tubing
Meal options: Self catering in the hostel kitchen or local bars and restaurants
Free activities: Mount John Observatory Hike, Church of the Good Shepherd, stargazing
Day 19: Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
Our next stop is Christchurch, a super cool city with the Avon river running through it, full of lush parks and cool laneway bars! Spend your afternoon wandering the city streets to discover creative street art and hidden eateries, visit the Botanic Gardens, do some shopping or hop on the tourist tram and see the sights!
Accommodation: Lodge accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Explore Christchurch by foot, check out the new Riverside Market, Botanic Gardens
Accommodation: Lodge accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Local restaurants or self-cater in the hostel kitchen
Free activities: Explore Christchurch by foot, check out the new Riverside Market, Botanic Gardens
Day 20:Depart Christchurcha
Today your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your guide and your new Stray mates, we hope you had a great time and we look forward to adventuring with you again in the future!!
Meals included: Breakfast
Meals included: Breakfast
What’s Included
- Experienced tour guide
- Private coach transport
- 19 nights’ accommodation (dorm-style)
- 19 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch, 2 Dinners
- Inter-island ferry
- Rangitoto Island visit and return ferries
- Visits to Kauri Forest, Karangahake Gorge, Hot Water Beach, Geysers and boiling mud pools, Huka Falls, Te Papa Tongarewa museum, Franz Josef Glacier, Hooker Valley Trek Mt. Cook
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience
- Guided Canoe on the Whanganui River
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Abel Tasman National Park Tracks and Water Taxi
- Trip to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
- Private coach transport
- 19 nights’ accommodation (dorm-style)
- 19 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch, 2 Dinners
- Inter-island ferry
- Rangitoto Island visit and return ferries
- Visits to Kauri Forest, Karangahake Gorge, Hot Water Beach, Geysers and boiling mud pools, Huka Falls, Te Papa Tongarewa museum, Franz Josef Glacier, Hooker Valley Trek Mt. Cook
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience
- Guided Canoe on the Whanganui River
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Abel Tasman National Park Tracks and Water Taxi
- Trip to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
What to Bring:
-Camera, Sturdy walking shoes/boots, Warm clothing, Waterproof jacket, Hat & Sunscreen, Bathers/towel, Water bottle, Toiletries, Motion sickness tablets, Insect repellent
Please Note:
-Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 23kg plus a day pack
- A basic level of fitness is required for medium length walks
- Accommodation at Lake Aniwhenua, Blue Duck Station and Marahau (Abel Tasman) is specialist. All cabins are private, but facilities are shared.
- A basic level of fitness is required for medium length walks
- Accommodation at Lake Aniwhenua, Blue Duck Station and Marahau (Abel Tasman) is specialist. All cabins are private, but facilities are shared.
Yhteenveto
Mitä hintaan sisältyy?
Ylimääräiset paikallismaksut
Please check the itinerary for optional paid activities.
Aktiviteetit
Please see the different activities (either free/included or requiring an extra payment) in the itinerary.
Majoitus
You'll stay in quality comfy hostel or backpacker standard accommodation including high country farm, scenic lodges close to waterfront or national park in our unique destinations.
Paikalliset kuljetukset
Take the pressure off, kick back, relax, soak up the scenery and let someone else do the driving. You'll travel by private, air-conditioned bus.
Ateriat
Some meals are included (please see itinerary).
Lisäinfoa
TOP REASONS TO GO WITH STRAY!
We actively seek out the best places off the beaten track so you'll get an unforgettable experience whilst in New Zealand.
- We stay CLOSER to the action
You've come all the way to New Zealand, so you'll want to get close to the action! We stay in great Kiwi locations, such as on a real sheep/cattle station, amongst Lord of the Rings scenery and beside at least eight national parks. Thus you can easily access the outstanding, unique nature as well as activities, such as a Maori cultural stop-over, a wildlife stop-over on Stewart Island, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (rated as NZ's best one day walk), sailing or kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park... All of these and more are exclusive to Stray and some of our top-rating features.
- Top Kiwi guides
Stray is NZ-known as being a top place to work - and we should know! We give our driver-guides market-leading training to help them take you around New Zealand; as well as being your local "guidebook" they provide commentary, book beds and activities, and provide information on things from New Zealand history and culture to the best drinking spots. These are all people that you’d like to adventure with.
- Save money whilst getting off the beaten track
With Stray you don't have to buy costly side trips as we already include out-of-the-way places like Raglan, Mt Cook, and the Abel Tasman. We save you time by picking you up and dropping you off at your accommodation; and by our extensive knowledge of where and what the best things in New Zealand are. We get you deals on activities so you can afford to do more, and there are always free things for you to do (please see your Stray pass itinerary for the free options in each place).
- Orange is the new Green - with one of NZ’s most efficient bus fleets
Stray is committed to environmentally sustainable tourism. Rather than just token gestures of energy efficient light bulbs and recycling (which we do anyway), we lead the market with the newest bus fleet to reduce our emissions. By choosing Stray you are helping reduce your own carbon output - travelling on a bus is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel, but only if the bus is full! We reduce our departure days and bus sizes in NZ's low season to further reduce unnecessary output. We have Enviro-Gold accredition from Qualmark.
- Don't just take our word for it!
We won the Best Visitor Transport Award at the NZ Tourism Awards and the Best NZ Tour Operator Award at the Australasian Golden Backpack (traveller-voted) Awards in 2010. We have extremely high customer satisfaction and referrals (97.5%) because we offer travellers more of what they want - down-to-earth, real New Zealand with an awesome crew and a greater emphasis on your needs.
- And finally...
You can realistically do the things that we list in the itinerary. Many of the things that we identify on our trips we have to go out of our way to do. For example, going to Mt Cook and Stewart Island, and doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are part of our normal itinerary so Stray offers the best chance to do them on our trips. That means that you don't have to hop off the bus, leave your group, and make your own way to enjoy these iconic NZ activities. Be also aware that you simply can't access much of what we think is the best stuff in New Zealand by using public transport - it simply doesn't go there.
FAQ's
- Is it a full-on party bus or nature bus?
Stray’s main priority is walks and wildlife and we have lots of early starts so we can fit as many adventure activities in as possible. What you do in the evenings is your choice, but we do have a couple of big nights out on the circuit in particular in Wellington and Queenstown.
- What is the average age of travellers on Stray?
The average age of Stray passengers is about 26. The majority of people are between the age of 20 and 40 (but we also have older). No matter what the age, we find we attract on-to-it people who want to meet other travellers, and get out there and further off the beaten track.
- Is it ok to travel alone on Stray?
Stray is perfect for people travelling by themselves. New Zealand is a relatively safe country and our smaller group sizes means you can meet more people, and your driver is always there for any questions you may have.
- Should I reconfirm my trip?
If you are happy with the start date and pick up point confirmed when you booked your Stray pass then you do not need to confirm. If you booked an ‘open-dated’ pass, or want to change your start date, you need to contact Stray (either by phone or online) AT LEAST 48 hours prior to a desired departure to arrange a departure date. Remember - we need to know where to pick you up from!
We actively seek out the best places off the beaten track so you'll get an unforgettable experience whilst in New Zealand.
- We stay CLOSER to the action
You've come all the way to New Zealand, so you'll want to get close to the action! We stay in great Kiwi locations, such as on a real sheep/cattle station, amongst Lord of the Rings scenery and beside at least eight national parks. Thus you can easily access the outstanding, unique nature as well as activities, such as a Maori cultural stop-over, a wildlife stop-over on Stewart Island, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (rated as NZ's best one day walk), sailing or kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park... All of these and more are exclusive to Stray and some of our top-rating features.
- Top Kiwi guides
Stray is NZ-known as being a top place to work - and we should know! We give our driver-guides market-leading training to help them take you around New Zealand; as well as being your local "guidebook" they provide commentary, book beds and activities, and provide information on things from New Zealand history and culture to the best drinking spots. These are all people that you’d like to adventure with.
- Save money whilst getting off the beaten track
With Stray you don't have to buy costly side trips as we already include out-of-the-way places like Raglan, Mt Cook, and the Abel Tasman. We save you time by picking you up and dropping you off at your accommodation; and by our extensive knowledge of where and what the best things in New Zealand are. We get you deals on activities so you can afford to do more, and there are always free things for you to do (please see your Stray pass itinerary for the free options in each place).
- Orange is the new Green - with one of NZ’s most efficient bus fleets
Stray is committed to environmentally sustainable tourism. Rather than just token gestures of energy efficient light bulbs and recycling (which we do anyway), we lead the market with the newest bus fleet to reduce our emissions. By choosing Stray you are helping reduce your own carbon output - travelling on a bus is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel, but only if the bus is full! We reduce our departure days and bus sizes in NZ's low season to further reduce unnecessary output. We have Enviro-Gold accredition from Qualmark.
- Don't just take our word for it!
We won the Best Visitor Transport Award at the NZ Tourism Awards and the Best NZ Tour Operator Award at the Australasian Golden Backpack (traveller-voted) Awards in 2010. We have extremely high customer satisfaction and referrals (97.5%) because we offer travellers more of what they want - down-to-earth, real New Zealand with an awesome crew and a greater emphasis on your needs.
- And finally...
You can realistically do the things that we list in the itinerary. Many of the things that we identify on our trips we have to go out of our way to do. For example, going to Mt Cook and Stewart Island, and doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are part of our normal itinerary so Stray offers the best chance to do them on our trips. That means that you don't have to hop off the bus, leave your group, and make your own way to enjoy these iconic NZ activities. Be also aware that you simply can't access much of what we think is the best stuff in New Zealand by using public transport - it simply doesn't go there.
FAQ's
- Is it a full-on party bus or nature bus?
Stray’s main priority is walks and wildlife and we have lots of early starts so we can fit as many adventure activities in as possible. What you do in the evenings is your choice, but we do have a couple of big nights out on the circuit in particular in Wellington and Queenstown.
- What is the average age of travellers on Stray?
The average age of Stray passengers is about 26. The majority of people are between the age of 20 and 40 (but we also have older). No matter what the age, we find we attract on-to-it people who want to meet other travellers, and get out there and further off the beaten track.
- Is it ok to travel alone on Stray?
Stray is perfect for people travelling by themselves. New Zealand is a relatively safe country and our smaller group sizes means you can meet more people, and your driver is always there for any questions you may have.
- Should I reconfirm my trip?
If you are happy with the start date and pick up point confirmed when you booked your Stray pass then you do not need to confirm. If you booked an ‘open-dated’ pass, or want to change your start date, you need to contact Stray (either by phone or online) AT LEAST 48 hours prior to a desired departure to arrange a departure date. Remember - we need to know where to pick you up from!