Tour Funky Chicken Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Transport

Back in 1989, Kiwi Experience invented the “hop-on, hop- off” travel concept which changed New Zealand adventure travel forever! Our bus passes are super flexible, meaning you can travel New Zealand in your own time. There is no set-in-stone itinerary and you can simply spend as long as you like in each stop on route. This allows you to personalize your trip to suit your travel needs, from 1 month to 1 year. Just book yourself back on a bus when you are ready to carry on to the next destination.

Others

2x Cook Strait ferry tickets (return journey) Legendary local Driver Guides Unlimited travel - travel your pass again as many times as you like within 12 months. T’s&C’s apply Change travel dates as many times as you like with no fees

Guide

Our Kiwi Experience Driver Guides are Kiwis who have travelled the world themselves and know how to have one heck of a good time. Passionate about New Zealand, our guides are friendly locals who want to show off their favourite spots to other travellers. Across the course of your journey, our driver guides will deliver commentary, the odd joke (some good… some dreadful…. Sorry in advance!), insider tips and advice that will ensure you have the most incredible experience when travelling with us across New Zealand. What’s more is that they will support you with finding a comfy and affordable bed each night in accommodation that delivers good ol’ Kiwi hospitality, in addition to organising all the epic activities you want to do.

Not included:

Meals

Meals are not included with your bus pass which means that you can eat what you want, when you want. The driver will make stops at supermarkets, bakeries and cafes to allow you to purchase what your budget allows.

Accommodation

In the spirit of freedom, accommodation is not included in the price of your Hop-on Hop-off bus pass. However, we partner with selected hostels across the country and appreciate that many travellers prefer the peace of mind of all outgoings budgeted for before setting off on their trip.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Auckland - Hot Water Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Auckland - Hot Water Beach

Say goodbye to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) as you embark on a journey south-east to the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. This breathtaking coastal region offers an array of experiences, including the option to kayak along its stunning shores to the world-famous Cathedral Cove, and the chance to visit Hot Water Beach; a unique beach where you can create your own personal spa pool by digging a hole in the sand, benefiting from the naturally heated water if timed right. Indulge in a Kiwi classic and grab some fish and chips for dinner and chill out with your new friends, or if you prefer a more relaxing evening, opt for a quiet night in to recharge your energy for the upcoming adventure-packed days (you’re going to need it!).
Day 2 Hot Water Beach - Waitomo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hot Water Beach - Waitomo

Leaving the gorgeous Coromandel behind we’ll venture into the enchanting Karangahake Gorge nestled among the Kaimai Ranges, for a hike amongst the walkways and old mining tunnels. Next, we’ll be heading over to Waitomo (‘wai’ meaning water, ‘tomo’ meaning hole) to visit the magical glow-worm caves. World-famous for their abundance of glow worms, extensive underground river system and stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, a trip to the caves is a trip to another world. However, Waitomo is more than caves and glowworms; it’s a cultural hub rich in Māori history, myths and legends. Some of the cave guides are descendants of Chief Tāne Tinorau, the original explorer of the caves. Upon our arrival, we’ll stop for a refreshing walk through the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve where you can see the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel, native forest and small caves. For those feeling adventurous, this afternoon you will have the opportunity to experience a Black Water Rafting trip (optional extra). Brave the underground rapids as you raft in tubes, leap off waterfalls, and float beneath a dazzling sky of glow worms.
Day 3 Waitomo - Rotorua
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Waitomo - Rotorua

It’s time to bid farewell to the glowing little critters. For those who wish to live out their Lord of the Rings fantasies, we will stop off at the enchanting village of Hobbiton, where the magic of the movies come to life (optional extra). Next, we’ll roll on through to Rotorua; a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. You won’t get bored here, as there are plenty of optional activities to keep you busy. Take your pick from exhilarating White Water Rafting, the thrilling experience of Zorbing (rolling downhill in a big inflatable ball – trust us, it’s worth it!), luging at the Rotorua Skyline, or explore the area’s unique geothermal activity and natural hot springs. This evening you will have the chance to embrace our history and culture with a 3-hour experience at the Mitai Māori Village (optional extra). Witness captivating stories unfold, be enchanted by performers, and satisfy your hunger with a traditional Māori feast.
Day 4 Rotorua - Taupo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Rotorua - Taupo

If you haven’t had a chance yet to explore the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, we will check it out this morning before heading onto Lake Taupō, taking a walk to the pounding Huka Falls (included) first. In Taupō there is lots to do, just tell us what you’re in the mood for and we’ll get you there. The lake itself (actually an extinct volcano crater) is a sight to behold from the shoreline, but the more adventurous might want to take the opportunity to experience optional activities such as sailing across the lake on a yacht to the Māori rock carvings, or even get a birds-eye view by skydiving above it.
Day 5 Taupo (Extra Day)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Taupo (Extra Day)

Taupō’s central location means it’s a hop, skip, and a jump away from other world-class activities which we give you the option to experience on this free day. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (extra activity); a dramatic landscape of stunning contrasts created by extinguished lava flows and emerald lakes, or chill out by the Lake and get some much-needed r&r.
Day 6 Taupo - Wellington
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Taupo - Wellington

We head south around the “great lake” towards the Tongariro National Park for a two-hour walk through native bush and waterfalls. In the afternoon we travel to New Zealand’s capital city Wellington. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion, and nightlife. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (free), or get amongst the thriving craft beer scene and Wellington nightlife.
Day 7 Wellington - Abel Tasman
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Wellington - Abel Tasman

We take the Interislander ferry across to the South Island through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. Travel through vineyards to Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city, then on to Kaiteriteri at the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Kaiteriteri is a great spot to begin an adventure (on foot, by kayak, or by water taxi) into Abel Tasman National Park, or see it all from above by jumping out of a plane!
Day 8 Abel Tasman - Westport
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Abel Tasman - Westport

Spend the morning kayaking out to Split Apple Rock and along the golden bays near Kaiteriteri, looking out for the local marine wildlife; or catch a water taxi to one of the bays in the Abel Tasman National Park to go for a morning stroll in the native New Zealand forest. This afternoon we stop at the iconic Nelson Lakes, so you can get your legendary wharf jumping shot before hitting surf town Westport.
Day 9 West Port - Franz Josef
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

West Port - Franz Josef

This morning it’s a short drive to Franz Josef. Franz Josef is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage area. The region includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mount Aspiring, the Fiordland National Parks, and surrounding conservation lands. We factor in a free day in Franz Josef so that you can get out there and experience what Franz Josef has to offer. It’s a wicked spot and whatever you get out and do, you will be blown away by the views of the glacier and Alps.
Day 10 Franz Josef (Extra Day)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Franz Josef (Extra Day)

Today you have a free day in Franz Josef where you have the opportunity to experience the famous Franz Josef Glacier on a Heli Hike tour, or on foot (for free) by hitting up the many walking trails in the area. Explore the Franz Josef wilderness further on a kayak tour amidst the serene waters and breathtaking scenery of Lake Mapourika.
Day 11 Franz Josef - Queenstown
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Franz Josef - Queenstown

We start out early in order to catch the perfect mirror reflection of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps on Lake Matheson. We then cruise down the last stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way. Then it’s into Mount Aspiring National Park, arriving in the awe-inspiring destination of Wanaka. After a stroll around Lake Wanaka to check out the famous Wanaka Tree, we arrive in Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand! Head down to the spectacular waterfront before it’s out on the town exploring Queenstown’s infamous nightlife with all the crew!
Day 12 Queenstown (Extra Day)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Queenstown (Extra Day)

Queenstown is one of the most amazing places on Earth. No matter what time of the year it is rated as one of our passenger’s favourite spots, and you’ll get at least three nights here to explore everything it has to offer! Make the most of the beautiful lake and surrounding walks, or get into a whole range of adrenalin-pumping activities. If there was one activity that you couldn’t miss it would be the day trip to Milford Sound, commonly referred to as The Eighth Wonder of the World.
Day 13 Queenstown - Lake Tekapo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Queenstown - Lake Tekapo

We head out of Queenstown, through the Lindis Pass, so get your cameras ready because this is ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. After stopping to admire Mt Cook at Lake Pukaki, we travel to Lake Tekapo with its amazing location by snow-capped alps and clear starry skies. Lake Tekapo has something for everyone - relaxing at the lakeside and taking in the untouched view, soaking in the hot springs, discovering one of the many scenic walkways or checking out the mind-boggling stars in what is the world’s largest dark sky reserve.
Day 14 Lake Tekapo - Christchurch
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand. Witness a city rebuilding and flourishing in the wake of the 2011 earthquakes, explore the street art, see the blooming botanical gardens, and learn about the history of a city that’s experienced so much in recent times.
Day 15 Christchurch - Kaikoura
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Christchurch - Kaikoura

Departing Christchurch, we arrive in Kaikoura in time for you to check out what it’s most famous for – whale watching or swimming with the dolphins. Spend the evening chilling on the beach or sampling some of the best seafood New Zealand offers for your dinner. The name Kaikoura means to eat crayfish (“kai” means to eat, “koura” means crayfish).
Day 16 Kaikoura - Wellington
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kaikoura - Wellington

We head north and take in the last of the dramatic Kaikoura coastline. It’s a spectacular drive and we stop for a close look at the seals that lay about on the rocks. We make our way to the Picton ferry terminal in time to catch the afternoon sailing to the North Island. Say farewell to the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu) and we’re on our way! The ferry ride takes a few hours so chill out and enjoy the view of the amazing Marlborough Sounds before arriving into the capital city in the evening.
Day 17 Wellington - Taupo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Wellington - Taupo

With an early start from windy Wellington, we head north through Taihape, the gumboot capital of New Zealand and the Central Plateau, home of the Tongariro National Park. Then it’s through to Taupō, driving alongside New Zealand’s biggest lake. If the weather suits, it’s time to skydive.
Day 18 Taupo - Auckland
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Taupo - Auckland

Today we head for Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), via Rotorua*. Rotorua is renowned for its Maori heritage and thermal activity, jump off the bus here if you haven’t had a chance to explore it yet, or continue onwards through the rolling countryside to Auckland, also known as the ‘City of Sails’.

*Please note this bus is an express service to Auckland, but you can jump off the bus in Rotorua

+15

21 days tour

Funky Chicken Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Funky Chicken Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Auckland - Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach - Waitomo

Waitomo - Rotorua

Rotorua - Taupo

Taupo (Extra Day)

Taupo - Wellington

Wellington - Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman - Westport

West Port - Franz Josef

Franz Josef (Extra Day)

Franz Josef - Queenstown

Queenstown (Extra Day)

Queenstown - Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Christchurch - Kaikoura

Kaikoura - Wellington

Wellington - Taupo

Taupo - Auckland

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