Step into a Minecraft world as you explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, from towering volcanoes to sparkling lakes.
We've taken inspiration from one of our popular signature tours, New Zealand Up Close and put a "Minecraft " spin on it - experience epic journeys aboard scenic trains, discovering hidden gems with expert guides.
Explore Tongariro National Park's Middle Earth-like peaks, the glowing glowworm caves of Waitomo, and sip wine in Marlborough’s vast plains. Traverse Haast Pass on a Kiwi-style road trip and uncover ancient forests and sacred pounamu on the West Coast.
Finish with nautical adventures in Milford Sound, Queen Charlotte Sound, and Lake Wakatipu—this is the Minecraft-inspired adventure of a lifetime!
Highlights:
- Tongariro National Park
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Marlborough Vineyards
- Haast Pass Road Trip
- Milford Sound Adventure
Kia Ora, adventurer!
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails, where your journey kicks off.
Think of Auckland as your main base—just like in Minecraft, you’ll explore a world filled with creativity, culture, and endless possibilities. After checking in, head out to explore the city. Visit the Sky Tower for breathtaking views or wander through the charming alleys of Vulcan Lane for your first “mining” experience—tapping into local shops, food, and drink.
Day 2: The Northern Explorer Scenic Train - Building Your Path Across New Zealand
Hop aboard the Northern Explorer Scenic Train, the equivalent of your Minecraft Minecart. Glide through lush green pastures and over sparkling waters.
Watch as the world shifts from farmland to rolling hills, a truly scenic experience. Arriving in Hamilton, explore the world-famous Hamilton Gardens, where each themed garden room is like a different biome to unlock.
Then, enjoy a relaxing Sunset Dinner Cruise in Raglan, and marvel at the natural beauty of this coastal region. Think of it as crossing from one Minecraft biome to another—each more awe-inspiring than the last.
Day 3: Explore New Zealand’s Endangered Species - A Nature Quest
This morning, embark on a real-world adventure at Maungatautari Sanctuary. Imagine a Minecraft jungle biome, but this one is real!
Walk through a pest-free native forest, discovering New Zealand’s rarest creatures. It’s your chance to spot the real-life versions of Minecraft mobs—like robins, kākā, and bellbirds.
Later, embark on an exciting trip to Waitomo’s Glowworm Caves, where bioluminescent “glowstone” illuminates the dark, creating a magical underground world.
Day 4: Tongariro National Park - Mountain Biomes Await It’s time to enter one of New Zealand’s most iconic areas: Tongariro National Park. Picture this as your Minecraft Mountain biome—complete with towering volcanoes and snowy peaks. From the Northern Explorer train, catch views of icy streams and volcanic landscapes.
Stop at Tūroa ski field to take panoramic photos of the "Middle Earth" terrain, then head to Ohakune for the night.
Day 5: Personalize Your Adventure - Choose Your Path
Today, you have the freedom to customise your adventure! Choose from options like a horse trek through hills and native forests (think of it like exploring a Minecraft plains biome), or rent e-bikes to discover the Old Coach Road (a Minecraft-style road trip). If you're feeling active, take on Ohakune’s historic cycle trail and unlock hidden landscapes along the way.
Day 6: The Northern Explorer Scenic Train - A Journey of Discovery
Climb aboard the Northern Explorer for a scenic ride, passing volcanoes, valleys, and rivers. The journey feels like riding through a Minecraft map, with endless new biomes unfolding before your eyes.
Stop in Wellington, New Zealand's "windy city," and enjoy its culinary delights. Explore the vibrant streets or visit Te Papa Museum—your Minecraft library to learn about New Zealand’s rich history and culture.
Day 7: Crossing the Cook Strait - Your Minecraft Sea Voyage
Today, embark on the Interislander ferry, crossing the Cook Strait from the North Island to the South Island. As you sail through the picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, imagine you’re on an ocean adventure in Minecraft, sailing past islands, mussel farms, and pristine native bush.
It’s like a massive Minecraft ocean biome with endless exploration opportunities.
Day 8: Marlborough Wine Tour - Sip Like a True Crafter
Explore the famous Marlborough wine region, where rolling vineyards and mountain views create a real-life version of a Minecraft countryside biome.
Sip world-class wines as you traverse the vines, soaking in the landscapes—your Minecraft creation coming to life before your eyes.
Day 9: The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train - Through the Wilderness
The Coastal Pacific train takes you through dramatic coastlines and rugged mountain terrains. It’s like riding through a massive Minecraft jungle biome that transitions into beachside views.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local wildlife—fur seals sunning themselves on the rocks are just like Minecraft mobs, except you can’t tame them!
Day 10: Kaikōura Whale Watching - Ocean Adventure
Venture into Kaikōura for a whale-watching experience that feels straight out of Minecraft’s ocean biome. Witness majestic whales up close, then explore local artisan shops for some Minecraft-inspired treasures.
Day 11: Christchurch - The Crafting Hub
Arrive in Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration. Just like crafting in Minecraft, you’ll piece together a perfect day by visiting museums, botanical gardens, and markets. Hop on a tram to see the city at your own pace.
Day 12: The TranzAlpine Scenic Train - The Great Divide
Prepare for the famous TranzAlpine train ride across the Southern Alps. It’s like riding a minecart through New Zealand’s most breathtaking terrain—through tunnels, past rivers, and across mountain ranges.
The highlight is reaching the West Coast, where you’ll explore the fascinating Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes—just like finding hidden treasures deep within a Minecraft cave.
Day 13: West Coast Adventures - Nature at Its Best
Take on the West Coast Tree Top Walk, an elevated adventure through ancient trees, just like wandering through a Minecraft forest biome.
Then, head south to Franz Josef Glacier, where you’ll walk through glacier valleys—think of it as a real-world icy biome straight out of Minecraft.
Day 14: Queenstown - Your Minecraft Base Camp
Arrive in Queenstown, a Minecraft-inspired resort town nestled in the Southern Alps. Whether it’s horse trekking, zip-lining, or sampling fine wine, Queenstown is your playground.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner and a show at Walter Peak, where you’ll learn about traditional sheep shearing—perfect for any Minecraft farmer at heart.
Day 15: Milford Sound - The 8th Wonder of the World
Get ready for a day exploring Milford Sound, often called the 8th Wonder of the World. Cruise through towering cliffs, past waterfalls, and lush rainforests.
It’s like exploring an untouched Minecraft world of awe-inspiring landscapes.
Day 16: Queenstown - Your Final Minecraft Adventure
Queenstown is packed with adventures, so personalize your day to make the most of it. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak, riding the gondola, or relaxing by the lake, there’s no shortage of activities.
Finish your trip aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, enjoying dinner and a show, reflecting on your unforgettable journey through New Zealand.
Day 17: Departure
Your Minecraft-inspired adventure may be ending, but the memories you’ve created in New Zealand will last forever.
Don’t forget to take your final snapshot of the landscapes, from the peaks to the lakes, before saying goodbye.
Ready for your next adventure? Just like in Minecraft, the world is always full of new possibilities and we cannot wait to see you onboard.