6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 144 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland worth booking?
6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland is a 144-hour experience in Auckland, New Zealand, from $3500 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 144 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (7)
- Duration
- 144 hours
- From
- $3500 per person
This immersive 6-day tour gives a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy included arrival flight, and optional handpicked activities & places to
What you get
- Private transportation
- If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are provided
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Kiwi Park or 1 hour of Hot Pool Private Soak Ticket at Queenstown
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Optional: Std. Economy Departure Flight from Queenstown to Auckland/Christchurch
- Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
About this experience
This immersive 6-day tour gives a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy included arrival flight, and optional handpicked activities & places to stay, without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South Island in a relaxed way. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, thrill jet boating, a scenic Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot pool soak, a cruise in Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & visiting an Alpaca farm. Choose to finish at Auckland or Christchurch or Queenstown.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are provided
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Kiwi Park or 1 hour of Hot Pool Private Soak Ticket at Queenstown
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Optional: Std. Economy Departure Flight from Queenstown to Auckland/Christchurch
- Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
- Guide-Driver exclusively for your group
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Cruise Ticket at Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Glowworm Caves Tour Ticket at Te Anau
- On-board WiFi
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Gondola with luge rides & Thrill Jet Boating Ticket at Queenstown
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Guided Kayaking or Whale Watching Cruise Ticket at Kaikōura
- Standard Economy Arrival Flight Ticket from Auckland to Christchurch
- Packaged snacks & chocolates
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Guided Stargazing Activity Ticket at Lake Tekapo
- Optional ("With Hotels" Option): Accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels with breakfast
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ticket - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
- Optional ("With Tickets" option): Alpaca Farm Tour & Nature Cruise Ticket at Akaroa
- Packaged water bottles
Not included
- Food & Drinks (except 5 x breakfast with "With Hotels" option)
- Travel Insurance
- Anything not described in the inclusions
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Auckland
Please check in at Auckland Airport Domestic Terminal as per your flight ticket instructions. Guide will greet your group upon landing at Christchurch Airport.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Hotel + Ticket | No Dep Flight
With Accommodation: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry tickets for mentioned 9-10 activities. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Auckland or Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.
Ticket | No Hotel & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry Tickets for mentioned 9-10 activities. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Auckland or Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.
Hotel + Ticket + Dep Flight
With Accommodation: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry tickets for mentioned 9-10 activities. With Departure Flight: Includes standard economy departure flight ticket from Queenstown to Auckland or Christchurch as needed.
No Hotel, Ticket & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided. Without Entry Tickets: This options excludes entry tickets for activities. Travelers book their own desired activities. Timeslot guidance provided. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Auckland or Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Waimate Journeys
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
- Following your booking, the operator will get in touch to confirm your preferences, as applicable
- With the "With Tickets" option, traveler(s) may swap any of the included activities for alternatives of interest such as Skydiving, Horse Trekking, Scenic Flights, Swimming with Dolphins, Heli-hiking, Relaxing Spa Treatments, Ziplining, etc., subject to availability, cost differences, and route or schedule feasibility
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
4 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great way to discover all that New Zealand has to offer in a personalized, more private way!
We had the most amazing tour of the South Island with Raghav as our guide and driver! We could not have fit more into our adventure! Every detail was worked out and timed to perfection. The hotel and activity choices were excellent, as were each of the accommodations that we settled in. Raghav was attentive and accommodating to all of our travel, touring needs and helped us to discover and enjoy the many opportunities that New Zealand offers. Changes to our plans and decisions were accommodated immediately, without any hassle. Would highly recommend, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, personalized experience.
via Tripadvisor
A Journey I will Never Forget
Just finished an amazing New Zealand Tour. I am still processing how stunning it all was. From the moment we greeted by our guide, everything felt smooth, personal, organized and thoughtfully planned. What really made the trip stand out was the perfectly tailored itinerary. From the dramatic peaks of Fiorland to the Kaikoura Kayaking with the stunning views. Every day felt like stepping into a different postcard. Our guide adapted what we liked, and added small touches that made the trip feel truly ours. We saw so many hidden gems and he captured beautiful photos of our family. Bring layers as the weather changes fast in New Zealand. Highly recommend and we would defiantly visit again for a longer stay.
via Tripadvisor
A Perfectly Crafter 6-Day Journey
This wasn't just a trip, it was an experience that exceeded every expectation. From the start, their team wowed us with lighting-fast responses-our customization queries were answered with a detailed quote in just 30 minutes. Despite peak season and sold-out activities, they worked wonders, securing renowned activities and premium accommodations at the last minute. Their ability was unmatched. From the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set to the serenity of Milford Sound, every moment was thoughtfully planned, blending adventure with relaxation. The subtle check-ins throughout made us feel truly cared for. This wasn't just our best trip - it redefined what travel should be. It was masterclass in effortless, personalized travel. Don't think twice, book with them and let the magic unfold!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your stellar review! We're passionate about what we do, and knowing it brought extra joy to your travel means the world to us. We aim to create a very enjoyable and seamless travel experiences, and your feedback tells us we're on the right track. See you next time!
via Tripadvisor
All Inclusions Went Beyond Our Expectations
The 6 day Auckland to Queenstown tour was the best experience of our New Zealand trip. From the stunning TranzAlpine train journey to the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo, Mt. Cook and Milford Sound, every moment was magical. The provided hotel options were luxurious properties that added to the comfort of the trip. Our guide was very kind and determined to make it best tour of our lives. He offered fantastic alternatives when the weather caused cancellations of booked activities. The Glowworm caves were mesmerizing and it was one of the best activities. I also realized the trip involved a lot of driving, and I made the right decision not to self-drive, which would have been less enjoyable, Every detail of the trip was well-organized. I highly recommend Waimate Journeys!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for taking time to write us a review. This itinerary indeed provides a relaxed experience with many included activities. Weather related activity cancellations were unexpected, however, we are glad that you loved the alternatives. Looking forward to another opportunity.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent tour itinerary for reasonable price
My partner and I recently enjoyed a fantastic 6-day journey from Auckland to Queenstown. We started with a smooth flight from Auckland to Christchurch, where we were warmly welcomed by our very kind private tour guide RV. Travelling by private car from Christchurch to Queenstown allowed us to explore at our own pace and appreciate the stunning landscapes. Our guide RV's knowledge and flexibility were invaluable, especially when some activities were canceled due to not meeting the minimum number of participants. For instance, when a helicopter tour was canceled, our guide RV quickly arranged a Glacier Explorer tour, which turned out to be equally exciting. Highlights of our trip included the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the awe-inspiring scenery of Mount Cook. Reaching Queenstown, the adventure capital if New Zealand, was the perfect climax. We enjoyed thrilling jet boat rides on the Shotover River and a serene cruise on Milford Sound. We found the price reasonable because planning and coordinating this tour ourselves would have taken many days or weeks and added the stress of executing the entire trip. In Summary, our 6-day trip was unforgettable, thanks to the stunning landscapes and our outstanding guide RV. We highly recommend this itinerary for people seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, with the added benefit of dedicated guide to ensure a seamless experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much James for your review. Yes, indeed our pricing is quite reasonable for the inclusions that we offer. Thank you for choosing us. Wish you safe travels back home.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 144 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 144h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $3500 to $17725
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Auckland.
How much does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland cost?
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Prices start at $3500 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Auckland usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland take?
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Plan for about 144 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Auckland is not rushed.
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable outdoors in Auckland, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 144 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 144-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Auckland can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Auckland and add a light layer if any part of the 144-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Auckland within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Auckland?
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On Outty we rank every Auckland experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland incl lunch, Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour with Cheeky Kiwi Travel, Hobbiton & Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour with Lunch from Auckland. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Auckland?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Auckland?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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