New Zealand · NATIONAL PARKS
This is the shortlist to send a friend: 12 national park tours worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Cruise Lake Manapouri, ride over Wilmot Pass, then sail Doubtful Sound on a guided day trip from Manapouri in Fiordland National Park.
“The commentary was valuable and informative, the views were amazing, staff all pleasant and helpful.”
Jet-boat speed on the Upper Waiau River, Lord of the Rings film stops, and Lake Manapouri silence, plus a short Fiordland nature walk.
“From the very start this experience was top notch! Chris called us to check if we wanted to reschedule our time based on rain that was moving in. He was so thoughtful and offered to take us whatever we decided. We arrived and Lindy was Read more”
Thrilling jet boat on the Dart River plus Glenorchy and Mt Aspiring scenery, with life jacket gear and naturalist guide.
“Best Jet Boat Ever Location spectacular Guide Jimmy was terrific. Well run company, trip worth every penny”
A full-day wilderness cruise to remote Doubtful Sound from Manapouri, with Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, wildlife spotting, and engine-off silence.
“It's a hidden gem, expensive yet worth taking this trip but as good as Milford Sound, where I have been many times but Doubtful Sound could also be an activity which can be explored during Queenstown trip.”
Half-day west Auckland escape to Piha black sand and Waitakere Ranges rainforest, with Maori stories and kiwi afternoon tea.
“Loved this tour! I can't believe how much is covered in just 5 hours! We had two guides on our tour, Andy and Ian (who doubled as driver) and both were fantastic. Small group is the way to go and this was it. We did a pleasant rainforest hike while learning about the flora/fauna and ended at Piha Beach. We even had time at the very beginning to stop by a bakehouse for a snack then to Arataki Visitor Centre to catch some amazing views and explore a bit. Well balanced and well executed tour that I definitely recommend!”
13-hour Doubtful Sound day trip from Queenstown with Lake Manapouri cruises, Wilmot Pass rainforest drive, and a 3-hour fiord cruise.
“Although it was an extremely wet day and we couldn’t see all of the scenic views on the way, the extra water contributed to some truly spectacular waterfalls.”
9-hour Doubtful Sound cruise from Te Anau via Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass, with live commentary, seals and dolphins, fewer crowds.
“Absolutely beautiful! We loved the entire experience, it was absolutely stunning. We had mixed weather, but that meant we saw beautiful rainbows and waterfalls as well. We got to see some seals napping out near the sea. Definitely recommend! Even the bus ride is filled with stunning views.”
Jet boat spins on the Matukituki River, then a guided walk in Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka in about 4 hours.
“Perfect mix of jet boat and stunning scenery. James was an excellent host. What an amazing way to access otherwise inaccessible places.”
RealNZ 12-hour Doubtful Sound cruise from Queenstown, via Manapouri ferry and coach, with live commentary and wildlife.
“Super wonderful experience and once in a lifetime unforeseen adventure and surroundings. Highly recommend. Thanks”
Sail Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri, spot seals near Split Apple Rock, then hike the coastal track from Anchorage Bay to Marahau.
“Great day! We had booked for the day after we went but after looking at the weather changed this last minute to the day before, they were very helpful and professional with changing the day which was great! The boat was fabulous and clean. The crew and skipper were very friendly and knowledgeable about the national park and surrounding areas! The wall was fabulous, the views are just incredible, such a beautiful place! The walk took 3 hours and we went off path to lots of the look out points and beaches! Really glad we had hiking boots with us!”
Catamaran cruise through Paterson Inlet and a guided Ulva Island bird sanctuary walk to spot seals, penguins, weka, and rare plants.
“Very enjoyable and information cruise and guided walk around Ulva Island.”
Cruise to Abel Tasman Anchorage Bay, hike Pitt Head loop, relax at Te Pukatea Bay, then sail with fur seals on a yacht.
“This is a must to do. Awesome day and excellent skipper and staff. Highly recommend”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
