Flying Kiwi Adventure Tours

146 Rankers Reviews

5 Face-to-Face

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Explore amazing and unique locations
Enjoy a range of great activtiies
Cycle options for all fitness levels everyday
Try some of New Zealand's best hikes

Information

Flying Kiwi Adventure Tours

Flying kiwi is the best way to experience the outdoor beauty and excitement of NZ. These trips offer more national parks, more activities, more hikes and more bike rides than any other operator with accommodation by lakes, mountains & oceans.

Flying Kiwi is the ONLY New Zealand
company to be listed in National
Geographic's "Best Adventure Travel
Companies on Earth" and the 2010,
2011 & 2012 World Travel Awards.

Here are some reasons why:
- flexible trips range from 3-28 days
- options to take extended breaks
- bikes, hikes or activity options
everyday
- unbeatable value
- tasty and healthy meals included
- amazing locations for accommodation
- discover NZ's best National Parks
- Visit UNESCO World heritage sites
- Trek some of NZ's great hikes
- Bike parts of the New Zealand Cycle Trail
- Meet like minded travelers from around
the globe

Details

Feature Value Info

Organisation

Flying Kiwi Adventure Tours

Commercial organisation

Location

North IslandAuckland RegionAuckland

Categories

  • Activity__bus_van_toursGroup Tours

Directions

To Coordinates

Directions

Auckland Office

Directions

Nelson Office

Coordinates

-36.8433450712213

174.766673946381

Latitude
-36.8433450712213
Longitude
174.766673946381

Maps

Reviews

    • I went on both the south and north island tour.
    • The best of the best with the best!
    • Hello!
    • Kia Ora!!
    • Amazing tour :) Even better than I expected.
    Rating Count Percentage
    10/10 119
    82%
    9/10 21
    14%
    8/10 2
    1%
    7/10 1
    1%
    6/10 1
    1%
    5/10 0
    0%
    4/10 0
    0%
    3/10 2
    1%
    2/10 0
    0%
    1/10 0
    0%
  • 1.5/5

    I cannot recommend a tour from Flying Kiwi at this time, purely because the organization was very poor relative to the price paid.

    Honestly, it feels that Flying Kiwi is growing too fast, lack experienced staff in key positions, and / or are understaffed.

    It's such a shame because the tour set up is great! It's a dream trip! But due to poor preparation, organization, and management the tour is worth much less.

    The rating 4.8 out of 5 stars is a score from the original Flying Kiwi organization.

    Flying Kiwi has been taken over by Stray. Only a few of us from the tour have given a rating online, but if all the travelers from our group give a rating, the average will not be higher than 3.5 stars.

    I did enjoy the trip. I have chosen to be positive, see the beauty of the trip, and I enjoyed helping the assistant.

    ---> The bus driver/ Tour guide was very experienced and a nice guy <---

    So in short what, due to the poor preparations and organization, we have missed out/ experienced:

    1. Information on the nature, culture, and history of New Zealand - Māori and settlers.

    2. No sleeping bags for 1 night

    3. Cheap tents

    4. Often a leaky mattress

    5. Limited bicycles

    6. Working Goldmine at Martha's Mine

    7. Exceptional and special zipline through untraversed native forest valleys

    8. Māori cultural experience and dinner at the Tamaki Village

    9. Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

    10. Tongariro Crossing (even if the weather had been acceptable, we would not have been able to do the crossing).

    11. Missing out on a visit at the Wanaka tree.

    Reviewed 7 months ago and experienced in January 2023

    Kim's avatar

    Kim

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Ski & Snow Explorer Tour, August 2018 - Really enjoyed this quick 5 day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown.

    The skiing was awesome and the scenery was breathtaking. The guide was lots of fun and it was a really mixed group of nationalities and ages. Would definitely do it again!

    Reviewed almost 6 years ago

    Sarah B's avatar

    Sarah B

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We have just returned from a Winter Tour with the Flying Kiwi.

    We have just returned from a Winter Tour with the Flying Kiwi. The trip brought unforgettable experiences. Being part of a group, but plenty of time to have alone. Very experienced, knowledgable friendly guides. Travelled with my teenage daughter, entertainment and activities for all ages. Plenty of optional activities. My expectations were met and succeeded. The trip was just as exciting as the stunning unspoilt and spacious country. What a fabulous family trip we have just had. A small piece of paradise that is left on earth.

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Sarah Geran's avatar

    Sarah Geran

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We were part of the Alpine Explorer tour and it was great!

    From stargazing in Tekapo, discovering the glaciers, (attempting) to ski the slopes and being in absolute awe of the beautiful west coast that we drove up, the tour is really something I'd recommend! Great food, atmosphere and people, all eager to explore NZ with an added adrenaline and adventure! Especially loved the biking! Thanks for a great trip!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Sarah's avatar

    Sarah

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Had an absolutely wonderful experience on the Flying Kiwi Winter Alpine Tour from start to finish.

    From the moment I entered the bus on day 1 I knew it would be a great trip as all of the group were very welcoming including our driver who provided some top notch banter! The tour covered some of the most beautiful areas in the South Island, always giving us a chance to take in the views and soak up NZ at its finest! There were many options of activities to take part in depending on budget etc. I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to experience NZ and come away with many stories to tell and memories that will last forever!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Amanda's avatar

    Amanda

    Customer

  • 4.0/5

    It has been a fantastic experience to travel with Flying Kiwi.

    The food was freshly cooked , the schedule was flexible and with plenty of alternatives for everyone. The driver was super friendly and made the trip lots of fun!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Laura Aiosa's avatar

    Laura Aiosa

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Perfect way of discovering this amazing New Zealand country.

    Friendly and professional crew, amazing tour of a month: really diversified and well thought

    Reviewed over 7 years ago

    FRANCE
    Antoine Bordas's avatar

    Antoine Bordas

    Customer

    thanks so much for the kind words and review Antoine

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    As a young bird’s first step out of the nest into the open and wild air is full of trepidation, so was my first step onto the Flying Kiwi bus.

    In hindsight it is clear that if that bird’s wings went by the name of Tom and Shannon he would have nothing to worry about. He would glide down past glorious beaches, stunning valleys, unique cultural sites, and epic hikes to land safely amongst a campsite and a well cooked dinner.

    Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid, Thelma and Louise, (the two from Natural Born Killers or w/e that movie is called). Tom and Shannon may not have gone out in a blaze of glory (and they did not, I repeat did not, drive our bus off a cliff despite multiple opportunities), but like those eternal pairings, they are a team in every sense of the word. They seamlessly switched off being each other’s support system and handled the many obstacles that inevitably come up with a large group with poise. When a grease fire broke out in a neighboring campsite, threatening to come into ours when the resident pig caught fire, Shannon quickly reminded Tom to use milk instead of water to put the poor animal out. And when a Kiwi Experience group decided to keep us up all night, it was Tom’s idea to play the escaped convict who threatened them into silence and Shannon who supported him by playing the parole officer in pursuit who made it all far too real for the drunk teenagers.

    Harmless hijinks aside, Shannon and Tom made the whole experience super fun yet relaxed, exciting yet safe. They had a knack of packing in as much as possible without making the day feel too packed. They were the extremely reliable friends you’ve always wanted but don’t exist in real life. I couldn’t recommend them, and Flying Kiwi, more.

    - Jack Shimon Shaked

    P.S. I must say my favorite memories from the whole trip were Tom teaching me Maori sign language (who knew you could do the Haka in sign!?) and Shannon doing an interpretive dance set for the whole group to nothing but a track

    Reviewed over 7 years ago

    UNITED STATES
    Jack Shaked's avatar

    Jack Shaked

    Customer

    thanks so much for the feedback and your comments on our awesome guides - we love them too :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    I highly recommend the Ultimate Explorer Tour to anyone who is short on time and wants to see as many highlights as possible, but still wants to travel off the beaten track!

    It is ideal for people who are interested in the great outdoors, love hiking and enjoy camping (there are affordable upgrade options available in case the weather turns bad etc.) Be prepared to get up early most days, as there is plenty to see & do!

    With plenty of space in my tent, it was awesome to wake up to bird song & the sun shining through the tent and to feel so close to nature :)

    Make sure to read the Flying Kiwi pack list carefully, so you’re always prepared for unforeseen weather changes ;)

    The food is good, especially considering that it is a camping trip, and there is always plenty to go round, always fresh & a good mixture of everything :)

    I loved the variety of optional activities that NZ & Flying Kiwi has to offer! It is not necessary to compare the prices yourself, because Flying Kiwi always gets you a better deal if you want to do paragliding, white water rafting, sailing and so on!!! :) There are highly adrenalin activities, but also more mellow ones..

    All the operators are awesome & the guides will make sure you have the best time! Really liked the insight knowledge about culture & history from the guides, that taught me more about New Zealand!

    When searching for tour companies, I found Flying Kiwi is the only company in NZ, which lays its focus so much on adventure, nature & camping and this is why I have decided to give it a shot and get out of my comfort zone, while camping or jumping off the cliff to paraglide! All in all- If you don’t want to be on a drinking party bus with hostel stays, and don’t want to travel alone & see & experience as much as possible then this tour is definitely right for you!

    Reviewed over 7 years ago and experienced in November 2016

    GERMANY
    Tina Mjn's avatar

    Tina Mjn

    Customer

    Great and thanks for the review Tina - describes our trips perfectly

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    A little over a year ago, November 2015, I spent two weeks on Flying Kiwi's Grand Traverse Tour.

    I was solo traveling, and for getting around New Zealand the structure, provided meals and transportation of a tour group seemed appealing, but I was worried a tour group could be *too* rail-roaded, not allowing enough time for exploration, etc. I was advised by someone who had also solo travelled in New Zealand to check out Flying Kiwi, and am very thankful for the advice.

    New Zealand has a startling amount of beautiful and varied nature to see, and Flying Kiwi focuses on getting you to it (as well as seeing some big and small towns along the way). At each stop there’s usually the option to go with the group or wander off on your own (just be back to the bus on time). The group we had on the bus was such a excellent collection of fun people, that I ended up going with them most of the time. The locations were superbly chosen, more than I can list here. Some locales have optional add-on activities, like swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura, or even more adventerous like skydiving.

    The tour guides Shannon and Tom were excellent - they were knowledgable, always on top of things, great cooks (very important for that meal we help them prepare!) and top of all of that, great fun to be around.

    You will often being making a tent to spend the night in (tents are provided but if you have your own favorite tent you can bring that along instead). Two meals a day a covered, the third you get yourself, or eat with the group in a restaurant, in a town we stop in. Each day breakfast is almost always covered, the second covered meal either a big lunch or dinner that you will help prepare sometimes (on a rotating schedule).

    I highly recommend Flying Kiwi as a great way to see New Zealand, with the benefit of not having to plan lodging, itinerary, meals, and transportation yourself, while still having enough flexibility to see what you want at your own pace at each stop.

    Reviewed over 7 years ago and experienced in November 2015

    UNITED STATES
    Josh Lawrence's avatar

    Josh Lawrence

    Customer

    Great to have you back on the bus and so pleased we matched the awesome experience of your other tour

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 1.5/5

    I cannot recommend a tour from Flying Kiwi at this time, purely because the organization was very poor relative to the price paid.

    Honestly, it feels that Flying Kiwi is growing too fast, lack experienced staff in key positions, and / or are understaffed.

    It's such a shame because the tour set up is great! It's a dream trip! But due to poor preparation, organization, and management the tour is worth much less.

    The rating 4.8 out of 5 stars is a score from the original Flying Kiwi organization.

    Flying Kiwi has been taken over by Stray. Only a few of us from the tour have given a rating online, but if all the travelers from our group give a rating, the average will not be higher than 3.5 stars.

    I did enjoy the trip. I have chosen to be positive, see the beauty of the trip, and I enjoyed helping the assistant.

    ---> The bus driver/ Tour guide was very experienced and a nice guy <---

    So in short what, due to the poor preparations and organization, we have missed out/ experienced:

    1. Information on the nature, culture, and history of New Zealand - Māori and settlers.

    2. No sleeping bags for 1 night

    3. Cheap tents

    4. Often a leaky mattress

    5. Limited bicycles

    6. Working Goldmine at Martha's Mine

    7. Exceptional and special zipline through untraversed native forest valleys

    8. Māori cultural experience and dinner at the Tamaki Village

    9. Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

    10. Tongariro Crossing (even if the weather had been acceptable, we would not have been able to do the crossing).

    11. Missing out on a visit at the Wanaka tree.

    Reviewed 7 months ago and experienced in January 2023

    Kim's avatar

    Kim

    Customer

  • 3.0/5

    Completed ultimate explorer- I would recommend it on the basis of the itinerary & the range of activities.

    Good for solo travellers. I would however add multiple caveats/warnings. Some of the selected accommodation/ campsites should be, or possibly has been, condemned. You will spend a longtime on a bus and their buses are cramped and past their sell by date (prone to mechanical faults). Mostly good people but some travelers are solo for a reason (total misfits/oddballs). Most of the tour guides are great but one or two are obstructive and rude.

    Reviewed over 5 years ago

    Wendy's avatar

    Wendy

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Ski & Snow Explorer Tour, August 2018 - Really enjoyed this quick 5 day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown.

    The skiing was awesome and the scenery was breathtaking. The guide was lots of fun and it was a really mixed group of nationalities and ages. Would definitely do it again!

    Reviewed almost 6 years ago

    Sarah B's avatar

    Sarah B

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Had an absolutely wonderful experience on the Flying Kiwi Winter Alpine Tour from start to finish.

    From the moment I entered the bus on day 1 I knew it would be a great trip as all of the group were very welcoming including our driver who provided some top notch banter! The tour covered some of the most beautiful areas in the South Island, always giving us a chance to take in the views and soak up NZ at its finest! There were many options of activities to take part in depending on budget etc. I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to experience NZ and come away with many stories to tell and memories that will last forever!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Amanda's avatar

    Amanda

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We were part of the Alpine Explorer tour and it was great!

    From stargazing in Tekapo, discovering the glaciers, (attempting) to ski the slopes and being in absolute awe of the beautiful west coast that we drove up, the tour is really something I'd recommend! Great food, atmosphere and people, all eager to explore NZ with an added adrenaline and adventure! Especially loved the biking! Thanks for a great trip!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Sarah's avatar

    Sarah

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We have just returned from a Winter Tour with the Flying Kiwi.

    We have just returned from a Winter Tour with the Flying Kiwi. The trip brought unforgettable experiences. Being part of a group, but plenty of time to have alone. Very experienced, knowledgable friendly guides. Travelled with my teenage daughter, entertainment and activities for all ages. Plenty of optional activities. My expectations were met and succeeded. The trip was just as exciting as the stunning unspoilt and spacious country. What a fabulous family trip we have just had. A small piece of paradise that is left on earth.

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Sarah Geran's avatar

    Sarah Geran

    Customer

  • 4.0/5

    It has been a fantastic experience to travel with Flying Kiwi.

    The food was freshly cooked , the schedule was flexible and with plenty of alternatives for everyone. The driver was super friendly and made the trip lots of fun!

    Reviewed about 6 years ago

    Laura Aiosa's avatar

    Laura Aiosa

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Perfect way of discovering this amazing New Zealand country.

    Friendly and professional crew, amazing tour of a month: really diversified and well thought

    Reviewed over 7 years ago

    FRANCE
    Antoine Bordas's avatar

    Antoine Bordas

    Customer

    thanks so much for the kind words and review Antoine

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    As a young bird’s first step out of the nest into the open and wild air is full of trepidation, so was my first step onto the Flying Kiwi bus.

    In hindsight it is clear that if that bird’s wings went by the name of Tom and Shannon he would have nothing to worry about. He would glide down past glorious beaches, stunning valleys, unique cultural sites, and epic hikes to land safely amongst a campsite and a well cooked dinner.

    Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid, Thelma and Louise, (the two from Natural Born Killers or w/e that movie is called). Tom and Shannon may not have gone out in a blaze of glory (and they did not, I repeat did not, drive our bus off a cliff despite multiple opportunities), but like those eternal pairings, they are a team in every sense of the word. They seamlessly switched off being each other’s support system and handled the many obstacles that inevitably come up with a large group with poise. When a grease fire broke out in a neighboring campsite, threatening to come into ours when the resident pig caught fire, Shannon quickly reminded Tom to use milk instead of water to put the poor animal out. And when a Kiwi Experience group decided to keep us up all night, it was Tom’s idea to play the escaped convict who threatened them into silence and Shannon who supported him by playing the parole officer in pursuit who made it all far too real for the drunk teenagers.

    Harmless hijinks aside, Shannon and Tom made the whole experience super fun yet relaxed, exciting yet safe. They had a knack of packing in as much as possible without making the day feel too packed. They were the extremely reliable friends you’ve always wanted but don’t exist in real life. I couldn’t recommend them, and Flying Kiwi, more.

    - Jack Shimon Shaked

    P.S. I must say my favorite memories from the whole trip were Tom teaching me Maori sign language (who knew you could do the Haka in sign!?) and Shannon doing an interpretive dance set for the whole group to nothing but a track

    Reviewed over 7 years ago

    UNITED STATES
    Jack Shaked's avatar

    Jack Shaked

    Customer

    thanks so much for the feedback and your comments on our awesome guides - we love them too :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    A little over a year ago, November 2015, I spent two weeks on Flying Kiwi's Grand Traverse Tour.

    I was solo traveling, and for getting around New Zealand the structure, provided meals and transportation of a tour group seemed appealing, but I was worried a tour group could be *too* rail-roaded, not allowing enough time for exploration, etc. I was advised by someone who had also solo travelled in New Zealand to check out Flying Kiwi, and am very thankful for the advice.

    New Zealand has a startling amount of beautiful and varied nature to see, and Flying Kiwi focuses on getting you to it (as well as seeing some big and small towns along the way). At each stop there’s usually the option to go with the group or wander off on your own (just be back to the bus on time). The group we had on the bus was such a excellent collection of fun people, that I ended up going with them most of the time. The locations were superbly chosen, more than I can list here. Some locales have optional add-on activities, like swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura, or even more adventerous like skydiving.

    The tour guides Shannon and Tom were excellent - they were knowledgable, always on top of things, great cooks (very important for that meal we help them prepare!) and top of all of that, great fun to be around.

    You will often being making a tent to spend the night in (tents are provided but if you have your own favorite tent you can bring that along instead). Two meals a day a covered, the third you get yourself, or eat with the group in a restaurant, in a town we stop in. Each day breakfast is almost always covered, the second covered meal either a big lunch or dinner that you will help prepare sometimes (on a rotating schedule).

    I highly recommend Flying Kiwi as a great way to see New Zealand, with the benefit of not having to plan lodging, itinerary, meals, and transportation yourself, while still having enough flexibility to see what you want at your own pace at each stop.

    Reviewed over 7 years ago and experienced in November 2015

    UNITED STATES
    Josh Lawrence's avatar

    Josh Lawrence

    Customer

    Great to have you back on the bus and so pleased we matched the awesome experience of your other tour

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    I highly recommend the Ultimate Explorer Tour to anyone who is short on time and wants to see as many highlights as possible, but still wants to travel off the beaten track!

    It is ideal for people who are interested in the great outdoors, love hiking and enjoy camping (there are affordable upgrade options available in case the weather turns bad etc.) Be prepared to get up early most days, as there is plenty to see & do!

    With plenty of space in my tent, it was awesome to wake up to bird song & the sun shining through the tent and to feel so close to nature :)

    Make sure to read the Flying Kiwi pack list carefully, so you’re always prepared for unforeseen weather changes ;)

    The food is good, especially considering that it is a camping trip, and there is always plenty to go round, always fresh & a good mixture of everything :)

    I loved the variety of optional activities that NZ & Flying Kiwi has to offer! It is not necessary to compare the prices yourself, because Flying Kiwi always gets you a better deal if you want to do paragliding, white water rafting, sailing and so on!!! :) There are highly adrenalin activities, but also more mellow ones..

    All the operators are awesome & the guides will make sure you have the best time! Really liked the insight knowledge about culture & history from the guides, that taught me more about New Zealand!

    When searching for tour companies, I found Flying Kiwi is the only company in NZ, which lays its focus so much on adventure, nature & camping and this is why I have decided to give it a shot and get out of my comfort zone, while camping or jumping off the cliff to paraglide! All in all- If you don’t want to be on a drinking party bus with hostel stays, and don’t want to travel alone & see & experience as much as possible then this tour is definitely right for you!

    Reviewed over 7 years ago and experienced in November 2016

    GERMANY
    Tina Mjn's avatar

    Tina Mjn

    Customer

    Great and thanks for the review Tina - describes our trips perfectly

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    My girlfriend and I booked the 5 day tour with Flying Kiwi.

    We started off in Auckland and finished in Wellington. I'd never been on a group tour before so I was concerned to say the least, not knowing what to expect and who I'll be travelling with. When we eventually got on the bus and met everyone, any concerns I had were gone. Not only were we lucky enough to be travelling with a really friendly/ fun group, Tom and Shan, the tour leaders from Flying Kiwi were fantastic. They always gave us interesting bits of information as we passed something of note. They even talked to us about the history and culture of New Zealand. The activities we had lined up were brilliant, it's just a shame that we had bad weather on the day we planned to skydive. A couple of the activities were a bit too touristy for my liking, but having said that it's something you have to experience and looking back, it was totally worth it. The food was another plus point, those guys really know how to put together a good meal. All in all it was the best holiday I've ever had, an incredible experience which I'd like to repeat very soon. In fact, I've already started planning my tour of the south island with Flying Kiwi. I'm positive that all of Flying Kiwi's guide-teams are just as amazing, but we had an awesome time with Tom and Shan, so if you're considering Flying Kiwi, try to get on one of their tours.

    Reviewed almost 8 years ago

    SINGAPORE
    Varun Udayakumar's avatar

    Varun Udayakumar

    Customer

    Thanks for the kind words and yep i can assure you all are guides are amazing and make our trips expectional :) Hope to see you on the south island

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    What an awesome trip!

    Great people, delicious food, incredible campsites and a fantastic selection of activities. Tom & Shannon were the best tour guides you could ask for and really made the trip! I'd recommend a Flying Kiwi tour to anyone!

    Reviewed about 8 years ago and experienced in March 2016

    UNITED KINGDOM
    James Theophilus's avatar

    James Theophilus

    Customer

    Thanks for the review James and will pass your comments on to the guides.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    I wasn't quite sure what to expect of this tour as I am usually used to traveling alone.

    But I can honestly say that this was a great experience! The campsites were all very nice, the food was great and the activities were fun! Not once was I ever bored! It didn't feel like an organized tour as we had a lot of free time to do whatever we wanted do. I would definitely recommend this tour company to anyone who is thinking of going to New Zealand and wants to see as much of the country in a short period of time!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago and experienced in April 2016

    CANADA
    MJ's avatar

    MJ

    Customer

    Great MJ and thanks for the tour recommendation

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    After having traveled most of New Zealand on our own, my girlfriend and I decided to travel a part of the South Island with Flying Kiwi.

    We did the Wild West Tour and had an amazing time! Food? Delicious. Campsites? Beautiful. Free-time? Plenty. Activities? Great selection. Would definitely recommend giving these guys a try if you're planning on traveling to New Zealand!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago and experienced in April 2016

    CANADA
    Alex's avatar

    Alex

    Customer

    So pleased to hear your new zealand tour lived up to expectation. :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    We had a fantastic trip with Flying Kiwi up the West coast, even though we're in our 60's.

    Every one was friendly. It was well organised, informative, fun, lots to see and do. Food and kit was good. Tom and Shannon were amazing.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago and experienced in March 2016

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Jean Judd's avatar

    Jean Judd

    Customer

    Thanks Jean - will pass your comments on to our great tour guides Tom and Shannon

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    National Geographic called it right in 2009 putting Flying Kiwi on the very select list of, "Best Adventure Companies on Earth." I can't say enough about what a great company this is.

    I felt I was in ‘good hands’ (very safe) and tons of fun with Kim and Dennis! No worries, lots of fun in a beautiful country full of lovely people – I love NZ!!” The office was superb at communicating and answering any question I had. I was looking for reviews to evaluate if this trip was right for me. I'm a 57 yr old who did most of her camping 26 years ago. So, for those who might feel any concern of being older than most of the travelers.....age didn't matter. I felt so welcome by everyone of all ages. What a great opportunity to meet what will turn out to be very special friends from all over the world of all different ages and do cool things every day. I call it my MOM GAP YEAR.....never heard that term in the US. I'll say, I'm over the tenting for now (it was all part of the fun though) and loved the upgrades but I would absolutely book with Flying Kiwi if they had another adventure in a different country. I understand they have a partner company they recommend and I'll look into it. So many options are offered to customize your trip. I give it a 10....you will too! It truly is as described by FK and more!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago and experienced in January 2016

    UNITED STATES
    Tracee Guibord's avatar

    Tracee Guibord

    Customer

    Thanks so much Tracee - really pleased to hear it was such a positive part of your MOM GAP YEAR...hope the rest goes as well.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    Just back from the Northern Light Tour.

    Marvelous experience - great mix activities and people, well organized!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    GERMANY
    Thomas Roehm's avatar

    Thomas Roehm

    Customer

    Thanks for the kind words about your tour Thomas

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    We had an awesome 9 day tour of South Island with our two children aged 9 and 12.

    We had wanted a camping experience eg putting up the tents and sleeping bags; but without having to organise the camping gear and logistics of planning sites to stay at. Flying kiwi had it all organised for us, choosing wonderful sites to stay at, organising cooking rosters - which included the kids. Although we had been told it wasn't a tour which catered for children in particular, our children had a fantastic outdoor adventure (I would say educational too). Our tour leaders Rob and Natalie were a wealth of information and guided us on the activities that our children would be able to participate in. Due to the reasonable amount of free choice time, we chose activities that we thought the kids would like, or adjusted the walks to their capabilities. Most days we had to travel 2-3 hours in the bus but each seat had USB charging stations - so the kids got their screen time too! All in all, the tour exceeded our expectations and we would gladly recommend it to anyone.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    AUSTRALIA
    Cwinsing's avatar

    Cwinsing

    Customer

    Thanks for the great feedback - you summed up our tours perfectly.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    This was my first true international trip, and quite frankly, I am not sure if I will ever take a trip that I enjoy more than this.

    I did the Grand Traverse Tour, which allowed me experience a good amount of adventures on both islands. I loved the outdoor focus of the trip. If you enjoy hiking and camping, you will love this. I actually had not done much camping in my life prior to the trip, but really loved it. Jono and Beth were awesome tour guides with lots of knowledge on the areas we visited. You also get to travel with people from many different countries, and it is really easy to make friends if you travel by yourself, because many others do the same thing. Oh, and New Zealand itself is absolutely gorgeous. I’d love to come back someday.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago and experienced in February 2016

    UNITED STATES
    Darcy Porter's avatar

    Darcy Porter

    Customer

    Great to hear your first tour went so well - sure you will have many more amazing ones in the future.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    That’s one of the best experiences in travelling in my whole life.

    My guides Kim and Dennis were wonderful...it´s an experience for all ages and everybody got on very well at the end...If I come back to New Zealand, it will be with them for sure!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    SPAIN
    Mar Robles's avatar

    Mar Robles

    Customer

    Great stuff Mar - hope you make it back :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Flying Kiwi is a great way to local knowledge and experience New Zealand's outdoors.

    The guides (I had Dennis and Kim) are excellent at helping you have a great adventure and maintain an awesome relaxed atmosphere. Flying Kiwi is the best way to get your outdoor adventure in unbelievable mountains and landscapes, but also get in some city adventures too.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    UNITED STATES
    NORA MUND's avatar

    NORA MUND

    Customer

    Thanks Nora - so pleased you had a great trip

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    “Awesome Experience!

    Keep it up! I am only touring the North Island but I will be back with Flying Kiwi to explore the South Island sometime soon!”.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    AUSTRALIA
    Mantri B's avatar

    Mantri B

    Customer

    Great look forward to getting you back Manrti. :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Touring New Zealand?

    Want flexibility? Want to get off the tourist trail? Then book Flying Kiwi Tours. I am an " older" single traveller but my group was of mixed ages and nationalities. When booking I had lots of queiries and the staff went " over and above the call of duty" to help plan my trip. Each day there are lots of activities on offer but it's up to you. Sometimes it's good to have a lazy day !!

    Everything from start to finish went smoothly.

    I Would recommend this tour without hesitation.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Sheila Jackson's avatar

    Sheila Jackson

    Customer

    Thanks Sheila and really appreciate the kind words so glad your tour went well.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    My partner and I travelled with Flying Kiwi around the South Island of New Zealand and we were really impressed by the amazing places that we were taken to.

    Most of the camps where we stayed were completely off the main tourist tracks and often we were camped alongside a lake or a beach. New Zealand is a fantastic country with mind blowing scenery at every turn and our driver, Rob, was really knowledgeable about where to take us to get the very best of it. We would never have found these kinds of places travelling independently. Rob and Natalie worked really hard every day to look after us all and to make sure that our holiday was as good as could be. They were also great fun and there were loads of laughs along the way. There is a really wide variety of activities to try during the trip if you want to. For example we tried hang gliding, swimming with dolphins, sea kayaking, horse riding in the high country, riding quad bikes, sailing, and took a fantastic cruise on Milford Sound. Every day was a great adventure and really exhilarating. Thank you Flying Kiwi for this opportunity.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Barbara Richards's avatar

    Barbara Richards

    Customer

    Thanks for the great review guys and will pass your comments on to the guides.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Good full itinerary, but not so busy that there wasn't time to relax and get to know everyone on the bus.

    Plenty of options for additional activities. Relaxed and laid back vibe. The guides (Tom and Shannon) were awesome!!! They were knowledgeable, prepared, funny, friendly... It felt more like a week with my best buddies and less like a guided tour.

    I only did part of the North Island and will definitely be joining Flying Kiwi when it's time to do the South. Great experience!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    UNITED STATES
    Robert Cool's avatar

    Robert Cool

    Customer

    Great stuff - looking forward to showing you the south.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Amazing tour :) Even better than I expected.

    I met so many new friends and saw the real non tourist side of the North Island. I'm so sad I only did the North Island and wasn't able to continue on with my group but I'll definitely be doing the south tour someday with Tom and Shannon my guides. Just loved every part of it, such a awesome way to travel and awesome price as well, there are also so many activities to do. Just lovely :)

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    CANADA
    Mari Mitchell's avatar

    Mari Mitchell

    Customer

    thanks Mari and hopefully see you back on the south island at some point.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Unforgettable and I'll never have a chance to do anything like it again.

    Normally when you select a tour the people tend to be of similar age and background to you. You associate only with those on the tour. The tour is relatively short and you only see what the tour company wants you to see. People complain if their hotel room isn't up to their expectation. A Flying Kiwi Tour is different. All ages and nationalities and each person has their own objectives and desires for the trip. There is lots of time and opportunity to know the diverse people on your trip and meet local kiwis. The crew facilitates everything you want to do. I purchased in advance the Tamaki Cultural Evening, Milford Sound cruise, and the Kaikoura Dolphin Swim as suggested by Flying Kiwi. All were wonderful.

    Every other optional experience was great and you had an opportunity to talk to the real people of New Zealand. I sunburned my scalp sand boarding and the

    accountant at the local pharmacy helped apply the aloe vera - a real wide ranging conversation. I was looking for a joke book written by kiwis and the search expanded the horizon way beyond this objective - what fun and everyone had an opinion. Finally I picked up used copies of Footrot Flats and I'm still having trouble understanding your humor but am working on it.

    Both Shannon and Natalie had worked a winter within 200 miles of where I live. They know how to toast marshmallows and make smores. I made the fire and Shannon said all Canadians were "pyros". I found out Dennis doesn't really stutter and isn't a dwarf. Tom said he might be traveling this year and I'd like to hear more about that if he's coming my way. The reason I won't have a chance to do anything like this again is that I'm 73 and medical travel insurance is about to get difficult. Thanks to every one at Flying Kiwi.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    CANADA
    Richard Latham's avatar

    Richard Latham

    Customer

    thanks richard and so pleased the tour was a success for you. :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 4.5/5

    My February 2016 tour of New Zealand was my third Flying Kiwi Tour.

    My February 2016 tour of New Zealand was my third Flying Kiwi Tour. I enjoyed the first two a great deal, so I came back for a third tour, and I was not disappointed. Even though it rained part of the time my two guides, Tom and Shannon remained upbeat and full of sunshine. All three tours were very well organized. We remained on schedule and permits and

    refunds were always ready on time. When we reached a destination many different activities were always available. The activities were suited to people of different ages and financial

    ability. In general Flying Kiwi Tours are a very good value for the money. I only wish similar tours were available in other countries on my bucket list. Larry L. Lindsay, Ohio U.S.A.

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    UNITED STATES
    Larry Lindsay's avatar

    Larry Lindsay

    Customer

    Thanks and great to get you back for a 3rd tour. :)

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    Amazing experience.

    The group had a good mixture of people and the tour was packed with highlights and activities. The guides were incredibly helpful and, most importantly, non-biased towards acitivites. So basically they told you exactly what was worth the money and what was not, which I found very helpful. In the end it worked out perfectly for me. I can only recommend this tour to anybody! I am 19 years old and had an incredible amount of fun. Thank you so much Flying Kiwi!

    Reviewed over 8 years ago

    GERMANY
    Alex  Lempka's avatar

    Alex Lempka

    Customer

    So pleased you loved the tour Alex.

    NEW ZEALAND
    Neil henderson's avatar

    Neil henderson

    Representative