New Zealand is the ultimate destination for Australian travellers seeking dramatic landscapes, rich Māori culture, world-class adventure, and unforgettable experiences just a short flight across the Tasman. With over 1.4 million Australians visiting New Zealand in 2025 — making Australia the largest source of international visitors — there has never been a better time to explore Aotearoa with expert-guided small group tours from Cooee Tours.
From the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound to the adventure capital of Queenstown, the creative energy of Wellington, and the pristine wilderness of Fiordland National Park, our curated New Zealand tours and holiday packages cover every region of both the North Island and South Island. Whether you are dreaming of tackling one of New Zealand's famous Great Walks, experiencing an authentic Māori cultural performance with traditional hāngi feast, cruising through the Marlborough Sounds, wine tasting in Central Otago, or spotting wildlife on Stewart Island — Cooee Tours designs immersive, small group guided adventures with a maximum of 12 guests for personalised attention and authentic connections.
Based in Brisbane, our New Zealand travel specialists have been crafting bespoke itineraries for Australian travellers for over 35 years. We offer guided group tours, private custom itineraries, family-friendly adventures, Great Walks hiking packages, wine and food tours, photography expeditions, and multi-day adventure packages — all with expert local Kiwi guides who share insider knowledge and hidden gems that larger tour operators simply cannot access. Every Cooee Tours New Zealand holiday includes our 100% satisfaction guarantee, comprehensive travel insurance, and free cancellation options for complete peace of mind.
Our most popular tours showcasing the best of both islands. Small groups, expert guides, and unforgettable experiences guaranteed.
Journey through Fiordland National Park on one of the world's most scenic drives. Cruise beneath 1,200m vertical cliffs, witness cascading waterfalls, and spot wildlife in this UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
Immerse yourself in New Zealand's geothermal wonders and rich Māori heritage. Witness bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, vibrant hot springs at Wai-O-Tapu, and enjoy an authentic cultural performance with traditional hāngi feast.
Explore 144 pristine islands, swim with dolphins in crystal-clear waters, cruise through the famous "Hole in the Rock," and visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where New Zealand's founding document was signed.
Marvel at New Zealand's highest peak, visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo, cruise stunning turquoise Lake Pukaki, and experience the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve for incredible stargazing.
Experience the adventure capital of the world! Bungy jump, jet boat, gondola ride, wine tour, and optional skydiving. Two days of adrenaline-pumping activities combined with scenic beauty and world-class cuisine.
Discover New Zealand's creative capital and boutique wine country. Explore Te Papa Museum, ride the historic cable car, tour Weta Workshop, then journey to Martinborough for award-winning Pinot Noir tastings and farm-to-table dining.
From subtropical north to alpine south, each region offers unique landscapes, cultures, and adventures.
New Zealand's 11 Great Walks are the country's premier multi-day hiking tracks, passing through spectacular and diverse landscapes. With close to 100,000 annual bookings and the Milford Track selling out within 45 minutes, these are some of the most sought-after hiking experiences on earth. Cooee Tours offers fully managed Great Walk packages with all logistics, transport, and hut bookings handled for you.
Often called "the finest walk in the world," the Milford Track traverses ancient rainforest, alpine passes, and Sutherland Falls — one of New Zealand's tallest waterfalls at 580 metres.
ChallengingA breathtaking alpine crossing between two national parks, with panoramic views from Harris Saddle, ancient beech forests, and turquoise lakes nestled among towering peaks.
ChallengingNew Zealand's most popular Great Walk combines golden sand beaches, turquoise bays, lush coastal forest, and opportunities to kayak, swim, and spot fur seals along the way.
ModerateCircle the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, passing emerald lakes, steaming vents, and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing — all through otherworldly volcanic landscapes.
Hard — AlpineA spectacular loop track from Te Anau featuring massive alpine ridgeline views, limestone caves, lush beech forest, and the relentless but rewarding climb to Luxmore Hut.
ChallengingNew Zealand's newest Great Walk offers a rugged sub-alpine experience through remote Fiordland wilderness. Named one of the world's top 25 trails for 2025 — with luxury lodge upgrade options.
ChallengingBooking tip: Great Walk hut bookings open in May each year. The Milford and Routeburn tracks sell out within 45 minutes. Let Cooee Tours manage your bookings and logistics.
View Great Walk PackagesWhether you seek adrenaline adventures, cultural immersion, nature exploration, or culinary delights — we have the perfect experience for you.
Bungy jumping, skydiving, jet boating, white water rafting, and mountain biking in the world's adventure capital. Queenstown, Rotorua, and Taupō adventures.
Explore Adventures →Authentic Māori cultural performances, traditional hāngi feasts, marae visits, indigenous storytelling, and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Discover Culture →Multi-day Great Walks, alpine trails, coastal paths, and guided nature walks through pristine wilderness. Milford Track, Routeburn, Abel Tasman, and more.
Find Trails →World-class wineries in Marlborough, Central Otago, and Martinborough. Farm-to-table dining, seafood experiences, and culinary tours through award-winning regions.
Taste NZ →Capture stunning landscapes from Milford Sound to Mount Cook, the Dark Sky Reserve at Lake Tekapo, and autumn colours in Arrowtown with expert photography guides.
Photo Tours →Kid-friendly tours including Hobbiton Movie Set, wildlife encounters, Skyline Gondola and luge, farm visits, and educational activities for all ages.
Family Tours →Romantic escapes with luxury lodges, private wine tastings, helicopter flights over glaciers, hot pool experiences, and intimate dining under the stars.
Romantic Tours →Carbon-offset tours supporting conservation. Wildlife sanctuaries, predator-free islands, farm stays, slow travel, and off-grid eco-lodges including PurePods.
Eco Tours →New Zealand tourism is surging, with record Australian visitor numbers and exciting new experiences across both islands.
New Zealand has seen extraordinary growth in Australian tourism, with over 1.4 million Australians visiting in 2025 — representing roughly 40-47% of all international arrivals and making Australia by far the largest source market. Trans-Tasman flights continue to increase, with Air New Zealand expanding its 2026 global network and Hamilton seeing an 856% spike in Australian visitors thanks to direct flights and competitive pricing.
New Zealand's 11 Great Walks now attract close to 100,000 bookings annually, with international visitors making up 35% of all bookings. The Milford Track consistently sells out within 45 minutes of opening. The newest Great Walk — the Hump Ridge Track in Southland — was named one of the world's top 25 trails and is rapidly gaining popularity. Cooee Tours offers managed Great Walk packages with guaranteed bookings and all logistics handled.
Stargazing in the Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve has been named one of Lonely Planet's top experiences for 2026. Lake Tekapo's Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve — the world's largest — continues to draw visitors for world-class stargazing experiences with state-of-the-art telescopes. Rotorua also offers magical night kayaking tours on its geothermal lakes.
A major 2026 travel trend sees travellers seeking digital detox experiences. New Zealand operators are leading with off-grid glass eco-cabins (PurePods), remote lodges with limited mobile reception, and immersive nature retreats from Northland to Stewart Island. These experiences embrace the idea of disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with nature — exactly what many Australian travellers are craving.
New Zealand tourism operators are showcasing how art and artisan food go hand in hand — appealing to the 86% of travellers considering New Zealand who are also interested in sampling local cuisine. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Central Otago Pinot Noir, Martinborough's boutique wineries, and emerging food scenes in Hamilton, Queenstown, and Wellington are driving culinary tourism growth. Harvest festivals and vineyard experiences peak during autumn (March-May).
With 60% of New Zealanders taking overnight domestic trips, the slow travel movement is reshaping tourism across the country. Travellers — both local and international — are staying longer in single destinations, exploring regional New Zealand beyond the traditional hotspots, and seeking deeper cultural connections. Hamilton, Waikato, and emerging destinations like Stewart Island and the West Coast are benefiting from this trend.
Experience the breathtaking beauty that awaits you
Real experiences from Australian travellers who've explored New Zealand with Cooee Tours
"Our Milford Sound tour was absolutely incredible! The small group size meant we could ask questions and get personal recommendations. Our guide Sarah's knowledge of the area's history and ecology made the experience so much richer. The scenic drive alone was worth it!"
"The Rotorua geothermal and Māori cultural experience exceeded all expectations. The Pōhutu Geyser erupting was fascinating. The hāngi feast and cultural performance that evening were authentic and moving. Highly recommend for anyone wanting genuine Kiwi culture!"
"Cooee Tours made our family trip stress-free and unforgettable. The Bay of Islands dolphin cruise was the highlight for our kids. Our guide was patient with the children's endless questions and knew exactly where to find the best photo spots. Worth every dollar!"
⭐ 4.9/5 average rating from 2,847 verified reviews
Curated itineraries balancing must-see attractions with hidden gems, adventure with relaxation. All fully customisable to your interests.
Route: Auckland → Bay of Islands → Coromandel → Hobbiton → Rotorua → Taupō → Wellington
Best for: Culture and nature lovers seeking Māori heritage, geothermal wonders, and coastal beauty
Route: Christchurch → Kaikoura → Abel Tasman → West Coast Glaciers → Queenstown → Milford Sound → Lake Tekapo → Mount Cook
Best for: Adventure seekers and photographers wanting dramatic alpine scenery and outdoor activities
Route: Complete North & South Island experience with InterIslander ferry crossing through Marlborough Sounds
Best for: First-time visitors wanting the ultimate New Zealand experience covering all major highlights across both islands
Route: Auckland → Hobbiton → Rotorua → Wellington → Queenstown
Best for: Families with children aged 5+ seeking interactive, educational, and fun experiences
Route: Queenstown → Routeburn Track → Milford Track (section) → Kepler Track (section) → Doubtful Sound
Best for: Experienced hikers wanting to tackle New Zealand's premier multi-day tracks with all logistics managed
New Zealand is a year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences. Plan your visit based on your interests and preferred activities.
Warmest weather and longest daylight hours. All hiking tracks and alpine passes accessible. Festival season with music, food, and cultural events. Perfect for beach activities, multi-day Great Walks, water sports, and family holidays. Expect peak pricing (accommodation 50-100% higher), larger crowds, and the need to book 2-3 months ahead. School holiday traffic runs mid-December to late January.
Best for: Beach lovers, Great Walks hikers, families with school-age children, water sports enthusiasts
The sweet spot for New Zealand travel. Stunning fall foliage displays (especially Central Otago, Queenstown, and Arrowtown), ideal weather with significantly fewer crowds, wine harvest season with grape picking and barrel tastings, comfortable hiking conditions, and 20-40% better accommodation deals compared to summer. Photography paradise with golden light. Our most popular season with good reason!
Special events: Arrowtown Autumn Festival (April), Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, harvest festivals across wine regions
Best for: Value-conscious travellers, photographers, wine enthusiasts, couples, hikers
Lowest tourism season with unique winter experiences. World-class skiing and snowboarding at Queenstown and Wanaka ski fields, lowest prices of the year (30-60% off peak), minimal tourist crowds, Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) viewing in southern regions, and cosy indoor experiences including hot pools, wine tastings, and museums. Some hiking tracks closed and shorter daylight hours.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, budget travellers, photographers wanting dramatic snow-capped landscapes
Excellent value with spring wildflowers, baby farm animals (lambs and calves everywhere!), and nature coming alive. Whale watching season begins in Kaikoura from September. Moderate prices, good weather for outdoor activities, and most attractions fully operational. Weather can be changeable so bring layers.
Best for: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, families, whale watching, good-value travel
🌟 Cooee Tours Expert Recommendation: For the best all-around experience, visit during March–May (Autumn) or September–October (Spring). Ideal weather, fewer crowds, better value, and the full New Zealand experience without peak season stress. Book your tour!
Everything Australian travellers need to know before visiting New Zealand — entry requirements, costs, driving tips, and cultural etiquette.
Australian citizens do not need a visa to enter New Zealand. You automatically receive a visitor visa valid for up to 6 months upon arrival. You need a valid Australian passport (at least 3 months validity beyond departure date), onward or return ticket, and sufficient funds (approximately NZD $1,000/month or NZD $400/month with pre-paid accommodation).
Biosecurity warning: New Zealand has extremely strict biosecurity laws. Declare ALL food items, plant materials, and outdoor equipment. Clean hiking boots must be declared. Heavy fines (NZD $400+) for undeclared items. Check MPI biosecurity before packing.
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Exchange rate approximately 1 AUD = 1.08 NZD.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted. EFTPOS very common. Contactless payment available everywhere. Tipping is not expected or required in New Zealand — service staff receive fair wages.
Drive on the LEFT — same as Australia. Speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 100 km/h open road. Many rural roads are narrow and winding — allow extra time. Single-lane bridges are common. Watch for sheep and cattle on rural roads. Car rental from NZD $60–120/day. Book ahead for summer season.
Flights from Brisbane: Direct flights to Auckland (approximately 3.5 hours), Christchurch, and Queenstown available through Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Jetstar. Return flights from approximately AUD $350–600.
Show respect at marae (Māori meeting grounds) — remove shoes and follow guide instructions. Don't sit on tables (considered offensive — tables are for food). Ask permission before photographing Māori people or cultural sites. Learn basic phrases: "Kia ora" (hello), "Haere mai" (welcome), "Ka kite" (see you later). Listen respectfully during cultural performances.
Environmental responsibility: Take all rubbish with you — leave no trace. Stay on marked trails. Don't feed wildlife. Clean hiking boots between regions for biosecurity.
New Zealand has excellent healthcare but it is expensive for visitors. Reciprocal health agreement with Australia covers emergency treatment only. Travel insurance strongly recommended. Emergency number: 111 (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
Download our expert-curated guides to help plan your perfect adventure. All resources free with insider tips from our local Kiwi guides.
Comprehensive guide for all seasons, climates, and activities across both islands.
Download PDF →Detailed offline map with marked attractions, scenic routes, and emergency contacts.
Download Map →Interactive calculator for accommodation, transport, food, and activities in NZD and AUD.
Download Tool →All 11 Great Walks ranked by difficulty with booking dates, tips, and packing lists.
Download Guide →50+ best locations with timing, settings, and composition tips from professional photographers.
Download Guide →Māori customs, basic te reo phrases, and cultural protocols to show respect.
Download Guide →Everything you need to know about travelling to New Zealand with Cooee Tours
Autumn (March–May): Our top recommendation. Stunning fall colours, comfortable temperatures (15–25°C), harvest season, and better rates. Spring (September–November): Wildflowers, baby farm animals, moderate prices. Summer (December–February): Peak season, all activities available, higher prices. Winter (June–August): World-class skiing, budget-friendly, fewer tourists. See our complete seasonal guide.
No. Australian citizens automatically receive a visitor visa valid for up to 6 months upon arrival. You need a valid passport (3+ months validity), onward/return ticket, and sufficient funds. See entry requirements for full details including biosecurity rules.
7–10 days: Perfect for one island. 14–16 days: Ideal for both islands with key attractions. 21+ days: Comprehensive exploration including Great Walks and hidden gems. Our most popular packages are 10–14 days. See our sample itineraries.
Always included: Expert local guide, comfortable transportation, national park entry fees, major attraction admissions, comprehensive travel insurance. Often included: Selected meals, activity equipment, ferry crossings, accommodation. Check individual tour pages for specifics. All tours come with our 100% satisfaction guarantee.
New Zealand's 11 Great Walks are premier multi-day hiking tracks. The Milford Track sells out within 45 minutes of bookings opening in May. Cooee Tours offers managed Great Walk packages with guaranteed hut bookings, all gear, transport, and expert guides — so you don't have to stress about availability.
Maximum 12 guests with an average of 8–10. This allows personalised attention, access to smaller venues that large coaches cannot reach, and genuine connections with fellow travellers. Private tours also available for couples, families, or groups.
Absolutely! Our family-friendly tours include Hobbiton, wildlife encounters, Skyline Gondola and luge, farm visits, and educational activities. Manageable distances, flexible pacing, and knowledgeable guides who love answering children's questions. Most tours welcome ages 5+. See our Family Fun Explorer itinerary.
Ferry: Interislander or Bluebridge, Wellington to Picton (3.5 hours, NZD $50–85). Scenic journey through Marlborough Sounds. Flight: Air New Zealand or Jetstar (1 hour, NZD $100–250). Our multi-island packages include ferry crossings with all logistics coordinated.
Return flights from Brisbane start around AUD $350–600. Daily budgets range from NZD $100–150 (budget) to NZD $200–350 (mid-range) to NZD $500+ (luxury). Cooee Tours day packages start from AUD $259. Multi-day packages offer excellent value with accommodation, transport, meals, and activities bundled. Contact us for a personalised quote.
New Zealand is one of the safest destinations in the world for solo travellers. About 30% of Cooee Tours guests travel solo. Small group tours are ideal for meeting fellow travellers, and we arrange shared accommodation to minimise single supplements. Private rooms available if preferred.
Layered clothing (weather changes quickly), waterproof rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, SPF 50+ sunscreen (UV is very strong), insect repellent for sandflies, Type I power adapter, and camera. Add swimwear for summer or warm jacket and gloves for winter. Download our free packing checklist.
Absolutely. Our Brisbane-based travel specialists design bespoke itineraries tailored to your interests, budget, and timeline. Whether it's a 7-day Queenstown adventure, a 14-day Great Walks expedition, or a 21-day Grand New Zealand tour — we build it around you. Get in touch for a free consultation.
Browse our curated collection of small-group tours led by passionate local Kiwi guides. From Milford Sound fjord cruises to Queenstown adventures, Rotorua cultural experiences to Great Walks expeditions — we'll help you experience the real New Zealand.
📞 Call: 0409 661 342 · 📧 Email: contact@waggiegroup.com
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