Kea 12 Day + Kiwi Experience Wellington to Auckalnd

$882.54

  • Start Wellington finish Auckland
  • 12+ Days min travel
  • Includes the South island
  • Flexible, easy, stress-free travel
  • Includes return ferry ticket North to South island
  • Great value for the budget traveller
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Description

The Kea Pass is ideal for travelers with limited time in New Zealand. This pass allows you to fully explore the South Island while also sampling the highlights of the North Island before heading directly to Auckland. Starting in Wellington, you’ll take a ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island, journey down the stunning West Coast to Queenstown, and then travel up the East Coast to complete the circuit. The trip finishes in Auckland via Wellington, with the option to Hop-Off in Taupo and Rotorua for an unforgettable Kiwi adventure.

**We will contact you for availability dates after purchase.

Kea Departures

  • Departs Wellington
  • Finish Auckland

How Does the bus pass work ?

  • Minimum days of travel on this pass is 12+ days
  • Cheap Az Travel will customize your travel itinerary for you
  • Simply tell us your departure dates and ending dates and we will plan your adventure
  • This is a jump on jump off adventure so take as long as you want over the 12+ days.

Kea Inclusions

  • Minimum of 12 days of travel – start Wellington, finish Auckland.
  • 2x Cook Strait ferry tickets (Return Journey) – if pass was purchased from 1 October 2023
  • Flexible, easy, stress-free travel with like-minded travellers
  • Legendary local Driver Guides

Not included

  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Activities

Looking for epic adventures in New Zealand? Dive into the excitement with a bungee jump in Queenstown or tackle the rapids with whitewater rafting. For a thrill from the skies, strap on a parachute for a free fall over Lake Taupo on the North Island.

In the Waitomo Caves, get your adrenaline pumping with blackwater rafting through the Tumutumu Cave. Or, for an unforgettable experience, take on the Lost World Epic adventure, where you’ll abseil 100 meters into the depths of the Lost World. After the breathtaking descent, spend the rest of the day exploring this massive cave system, walking, wading, swimming, and climbing through its vast passages, with ceilings soaring 50-80 meters above. This cave is seriously huge!

Important info before you travel

Wellington to 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!

Accommodation
  • Kaiteri Lodge (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Interislander ferry (included)
  • Kahu Kayaks (optional extra)
  • Abel Tasman skydive (optional extra)

Abel Tasman to 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.

Accommodation
  • Bazils Hostel and Surf School (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Nelson Lakes (free)
  • Surfing (optional extra)
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding (optional extra)

Westport to Lake Mahinapua – Seasonal location*

Lake Mahinapua is a seasonal location from 10 October 2024 – 8 May 2025. When out of season, the bus will travel directly from Westport to Franz Josef.

Today, we start our journey down spectacular State Highway 6, which stretches 435 kilometres along the rugged Tasman shoreline. The road winds through diverse landscapes that never cease to amaze. Highlights today include the Cape Foulwind seal colony walk, rugged beaches, and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Tonight, you will stay at the historic Mahinapua Hotel, across the road from Lake Mahinapua and a short wander away from a rugged west coast beach. This location is unique to Kiwi Experience and allows you to bond with your bus mates over a meal.

Accommodation
  • Lake Mahinapua Hotel (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Cape Foulwind Seal Colony walk (free)
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks (free)

Lake Mahinapua to 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.

Accommodation

  • Rainforest Retreat (not included – book via the Trip Planner)

Included Experiences

  • Franz Josef Glacier walk (free)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike (optional extra)
  • Franz Josef Wilderness Kayak tour (optional extra)
  • Franz Josef skydive (optional extra)

Franz Josef (Free 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.

Accommodation

  • Rainforest Retreat (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Franz Josef Glacier walk (free)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike (optional extra)
  • Franz Josef Wilderness Kayak tour (optional extra)
  • Franz Josef skydive (optional extra)

Franz Josef to 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!

Accommodation
  • Nomads Queenstown (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • That Wanaka Tree (free)
  • Lake Matheson Lake Walk (free)
  • Kiwi Crawl (optional extra)

Queenstown (Free 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.

Accommodation
  • Nomads Queenstown (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Milford Explorer (included in some passes)
  • Shotover Jet (optional extra)
  • Nevis Bungy (optional extra)
  • Canyon Swing (optional extra)

Queenstown to 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.

Accommodation
  • Lakefront Lodge Tekapo (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Lake Pukaki (free)
  • Church of the Good Shepherd (free)
  • Mount John walk (free)

Lake Tekapo to 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.

Accommodation
  • Hotel Give (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens (Free)
  • Quake City
  • International Antarctic Centre

Christchurch to 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).

Accommodation
  • Dusky Lodge (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Kaikoura Viewpoint Walk (free)
  • Seal Colony (free)
  • Swim with Dolphins (optional extra)
  • Whale Watching (optional extra)

Kaikoura to 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.

Accommodation
  • Nomads Backpackers (not included – book via the Trip Planner)
Experiences
  • Seal colony (free)
  • Interislander Ferry
  • Cuba Street nightlife

Wellington to Auckland Express Service via Taupo and Rotorua

Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your own adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further! The bus will stop for pick-ups and drop-offs only.

Let’s head north! We’ll depart from Wellington, leaving the wind behind as we head towards the gumboot capital, Taihape. Next, we’ll traverse the Central Plateau, home to the awe-inspiring Tongariro National Park.

Calling all lake lovers! Our first stop en route to Auckland is Taupō, hop-off the bus and soak in the beauty of New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake. The bus will then continue to Rotorua hop off the bus and explore the geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture in Rotorua. Or keep rolling with us through the scenic countryside towards Auckland, the vibrant “City of Sails.”

 

Please note: This is an express service to Auckland, but you can choose your adventure and hop off in Taupō or Rotorua to explore further!

Accommodation in Taupo and Rotorua is at your own arrangement, and can not be booked with Kiwi Experience

Accommodation

Auckland 

  • Lylo Auckland  (Not Included book via the Trip Planner)

 

To allow for ultimate flexibility, accommodation is not included in the price of your bus pass. The Trip Planner makes it simple to pre-book and pay for your accommodation while travelling on the bus. You must book your accommodation by 7am two days before arrival at each overnight location. Book your accommodation directly with the hostel if you’re staying longer at a destination than on the bus.  You always have the option to book your own accommodation outside of Kiwi Experience. Please note that the Kiwi Experience bus will only pick up and drop off from the accommodation on the trip planner. Your are always guaranteed a bed spot on the first night.

You also add your bus sectors on the trip planner if Cheap Az Travel is not doing it for you.

Once you’ve decided on your itinerary and accommodation, Cheap Az Travel can add your activities for you as well at a great price.. From whale watching to bungy jumping, surfing to skydiving

The pass is valid for 12 months so you can buy now and use later. Each pass has a min time of travel for instance the Kea is 12 days +. We suggest spreading it out and allowing you extra time to take in New Zealand.

Hop-On-Hop-Off Terms & Conditions

  1. Kiwi Experience travel passes (Travel Passes) are valid for travel in one direction for the route stated on the Travel Pass, repeating sections is not possible.
  2. Travel using the Travel Pass must commence within 12 months of the date of purchase unless otherwise stated. Travel Passes are valid for 12 months from the first date of travel, or until you have travelled once over all sections of the Travel Pass, whichever occurs first.
  3. Travel agent vouchers or website E-Tickets are not valid Travel Passes and must be exchanged for a valid Travel Pass (your welcome email will do) before you can travel on a Kiwi Experience service.
  4. Travel Passes that have expired may be extended on the following terms. A Travel Pass can expire either because you did not use it within 12 months of purchase (or such lesser period if stated in the specific terms of purchase) or you have not finished your travels within 12 months from the first date of travel. Extensions must be requested and paid for before the expiry date of the Travel Pass. A charge of NZD$50 per month (period) of extension applies to all extensions. Further, if you wish to extend your Travel Pass before your first date of travel and the current Travel Pass price is higher at the time of extension than the price you paid for your Travel Pass, the difference must also be paid. There are no refunds if the Travel Pass price at the time of extension is less than the price you paid for your Travel Pass.
  5. Kiwi Experience Travel Passes are non-transferable. Unlimited Travel applies only to The Whole Kit & Caboodle and the Funky Chicken pass. To qualify for unlimited travel, an entire route circuit must be completed. Backtracking isn’t permitted, and point-to-point journeys can not be repeated without completing the entire circuit.  Only the first return inter-island ferry crossing is included in the pass. Any additional crossings are at the pass holders’ expense. These can be purchased via the Kiwi Experience bus planner. No limits are imposed on completing entire route circuits. All other T&Cs still apply.
  6. All national passes include  Inter-Island ferry crossings in line with the itinerary of the pass i.e. (one-way or return). Inter-Island ferry tickets are for walk-on passengers only and do not include food and beverage, lounge access or excess luggage. These are at the expense of the traveller. Kiwi Experience reserves to right to use multiple provides on this crossing.
  7. Cancellation policy for Travel Passes: In the event you have purchased a Travel Pass and subsequently wish to cancel it, Kiwi Experience may refund your Travel Pass at its sole discretion, in which event you will be required to pay a cancellation fee as follows: a. where the purchase price of the Travel Pass is less than NZD$200, the cancellation fee shall be equivalent to the price paid for the Travel Pass; b. where the purchase price of the Travel Pass is greater than NZD$200, the cancellation fee is NZD$200. No Travel Pass may be cancelled following the first date of travel. The Milford Explorer and Cape Reinga add-on passes are 100% non-refundable.
  8. Travel reservations are recommended on Kiwi Experience services and should be made at least 14 days before departure to give you the best chance of a seat in the summer period (1 January to 30 April), and 7 days before departure to ensure a seat at other times. Changes to reservations must be made at least 24 hours prior to departure and are subject to availability. All reservations and changes must be made by contacting our reservations department:
    Ph: +64 (9) 336 4286 or email: travel@kiwiex.co.nz
  9. No Shows: Should you fail to show for any booked and confirmed departure your Travel Pass will become invalid unless and until an NZD$50 fee is paid to reinstate the Travel Pass. This does not include the Milford Explorer and Cape Reinga add-on passes, which are 100% non-refundable and require full payment to reinstate the booking if a no-show occurs.
  10. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to vary any fares, routes, overnight stops, pricing, inclusions, accommodation operators, departure dates, times and locations without notice. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to substitute other vehicles in place of our own. Kiwi Experience product inclusions and advertised accommodation operators are not guaranteed and will be provided where possible.
  11. Kiwi Experience will endeavour to adhere to stated departure and arrival times but will not be liable for any failure to meet those times or for any cancellation or delay of Kiwi Experience services.
  12. Kiwi Experience shall not be liable for any loss or damage of any kind, including indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising directly or indirectly out of a cancellation or abandonment of, or delay to, any trip, however caused.
  13. Kiwi Experience has preferred agreements with accommodation providers however we cannot always guarantee your first choice of accommodation.
  14. Luggage is limited to one piece at 23 kilograms. For additional luggage, charges may apply.
  15. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to refuse to carry any passenger, luggage or goods at its sole discretion.
  16. Kiwi Experience will not be liable for the sickness of, injury to, or death of, any passenger, or the loss of, or damage to, any personal effects, whether caused by Kiwi Experience’s negligence or otherwise. There is no travel insurance cover included in the price of a Travel Pass and Kiwi Experience recommends that you obtain travel insurance to cover any sickness, injury, or loss that may occur while you are travelling with Kiwi Experience.
  17. You agree to indemnify Kiwi Experience against any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by Kiwi Experience, its officers, employees, agents or related companies as a result of any claim by any third party whose claim arises from your use of your Travel Pass or your acts or omissions while travelling on any Kiwi Experience service.
  18. Where the services of another operator are provided as part of the Travel Pass it is agreed and understood that Kiwi Experience has no responsibility whatsoever for any default of that operator.
  19.  Passengers must be 18 years old at the time of travel. Proof of identification and age may be requested, and failure to provide such proof may invalidate your Travel Pass. 
  20. Kiwi Experience does not offer the Waitomo sector on routes heading North. No Kiwi Experience Travel Pass that includes the Waitomo sector can exchange the Waitomo sector going Southbound for a trip operated by the Waitomo Wanderer going Northbound.
  21. These terms and conditions are governed by the law of New Zealand and you and Kiwi Experience agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of New Zealand in any dispute. Nothing in these terms and conditions affects your rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
  22. Kiwi Experience may, at any time and without notice, vary any of these terms and conditions.
  23. Kiwi Experience will not be liable for breach of, or any failure to perform its obligations under, these terms and conditions where such breach or failure is caused by anything beyond Kiwi Experience’s reasonable control including, but not limited to, war, civil commotion, hostility, act of terrorism, strike, lockout, other industrial act, weather phenomena or other act of God, or governmental regulation or direction.
  24. If any part of these terms and conditions is held to be invalid, unenforceable or illegal for any reason, they will be deemed to be amended by the addition or deletion of wording necessary to remove the invalid, unenforceable or illegal part, but otherwise to remain unchanged to the maximum extent permissible under applicable law.