For Naresh, New Zealand wasn’t just another destination—it was Middle-earth brought to life. A lifelong Lord of the Rings fan, he joined a small group tour as a solo traveler expecting epic landscapes and smooth logistics. He got all that and more. Along the way, he bonded with 17 fellow travelers who quickly turned from strangers into friends through shared adventures and unforgettable moments. From wandering the rolling green hills of Hobbiton—a true bucket-list dream—to pushing his limits with an adrenaline-packed skydive, Naresh experienced New Zealand at its best: guided, seamless, and personal. Proof that the best journeys blend fantasy, friendship, and real-life thrills.
A solo traveler’s dream holiday
From living out his Lord of the Rings dreams in Hobbiton to sharing laughs and adventures with fellow travelers, Naresh did more than just sightseeing on this trip to New Zealand. Read on for his insights of the trip and the destinations.
Q: What made you choose a small group tour? A: It wasn't by design. We had a group of 18. Made the journey more personalised.
Q: The trip you booked was a guided tour. How did it feel to travel with a guide on this tour? Would you travel with a guide again? Why or why not? A: It was done really well. I would prefer to travel with a guide. It's good to have insights about the place and help with all the bookings that were done.
Q: How was it joining a trip to New Zealand as a solo traveler? A: Absolutely amazing! Had the best time ever.
Q: How is it to travel New Zealand as an Experienced traveler (40 to 59 age range) traveler? Would you recommend New Zealand to other Experienced travelers, and why? A: New Zealand should be on everyone's travel goals. It's a beautiful country with lots of culture and history to experience.
Q: Were there any parts of the trip that surprised you in terms of quality or value? A: Not really. It lived up to my expectations mostly.
Q: What made you choose this trip, and was it for a special occasion (e.g., anniversary, birthday, family reunion)? A: I wanted to see Hobbiton. That was the trigger. Everything else was a beautiful addition.
A collage of three photographs from Naresh's visit to Hobbiton in New Zealand.
Q: Which destinations, cities, or highlights did you cover on your trip, and which stood out the most? A: Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington. Then I loved Hobbiton and Taupo (the sky dive experience was outstanding).
Q: What was a memorable moment or story from your journey that you’d like to highlight? A: Hobbiton and the Sky dive experience in Taupo were the highlights for me.
Q: What were your favorite activities or excursions, and why? A: Same as before. Hobbiton and Sky diving. Hobbiton because I'm a huge LoTR fan. And sky diving was something I wanted to do for a long time.
Q: Did you try any local food or cultural experiences that you would recommend? A: The food was great at all the places we are. No one place stands out as such. We had great fun at a karaoke bar.
Q: Did you have any unique interactions with locals, guides, or fellow travelers that made your trip special? A: I did. Made a lot of friends on the trip.
Tucked beneath New Zealand’s North Island, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves feel straight out of a fantasy novel.
Q: Did this trip change your perspective on the destination, travel, or life in any way? A: Absolutely. It has made me more open to such travel plans in the future. This was my first solo trip. I'm looking forward to doing more of these.
Q: What was the biggest surprise you encountered during your trip to New Zealand (positive or unexpected)? A: The stay arrangements. I wasn't sure how the hostels would be. I was pleasantly surprised by the arrangements. Although the hostels could do something about the heat and ventilation.
Q: Looking back, what was the best part of your entire journey? A: The whole journey was memorable. Hobbiton and Taupo were exceptional but as was everything else. The group was amazing. Had the most wonderful time making friends with people from different countries and cultures.
Q: If you could relive one day of your trip, which day would it be and why? A: Two days... Hobbiton and Sky diving. These two were big items on my bucket list.
Q: What would you say to someone considering this tour or destination? A: I'd suggest combining north and south New Zealand. Doing just the north island would feel wanting.
Q: Any funny or unexpected stories from your trip you’d like to share? A: The night of the barbecue — we played a game of mafia. It was great fun where everyone was trying to call everyone else a killer. I had great fun.
Q: Any tips or things you wish you’d known before going on a trip to New Zealand? A: It's better to do both north and south island at one go.
From the waterfront city of Auckland to the spectacular Southern Alps, New Zealand is blessed with an array of natural wonders that are best experienced by foot and boat. This active trip maximises time spent outdoors, whether it’s sailing through waterways, hiking between volcanic peaks or jetboating through Mount Aspiring National Park. Make the most of your time in New Zealand – a country that always exceeds expectations – with this jam-packed itinerary that includes highlights of the north and south islands.
Picture yourself soaring above the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Cook, then diving into Queenstown’s legendary adrenaline scene—this is just the start of the "New Zealand: Sweet As South" tour package. Designed for adventurous young adults, this 9-day group trip through New Zealand’s South Island combines outdoor thrills with stunning natural landscapes. Beginning and ending in Christchurch, you’ll journey through highlights like Franz Josef and Wellington, with all accommodation, transport, and meals included.
Kick off with a breathtaking scenic flight over Mt. Cook, capturing panoramic views that set the tone for what’s to come. Queenstown awaits as your playground: try bungy jumping or opt for a serene cruise through the majestic Milford Sound. In Franz Josef, an unforgettable glacier hike lets you tread across ancient ice, creating memories few travelers ever experience. The trip culminates back in Christchurch, giving you a taste of urban Kiwi culture to round out your adventure.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s the seamless blend of heart-pounding activities, awe-inspiring landscapes, and easy camaraderie of traveling in a group—all curated for those hungry for adventure. If you crave a trip that delivers both iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path excitement in New Zealand’s spectacular South, this is your ticket to the ultimate Kiwi experience.
Craving a rush of adrenaline in one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes? The "New Zealand Panorama" trip is tailored to adventurous young adults eager to experience the ultimate blend of outdoor thrills and cultural immersion over 16 unforgettable days. From Auckland’s urban buzz to Queenstown’s legendary adventure sports, this guided group tour delivers non-stop excitement and natural wonders at every turn.
Launch your journey in Queenstown, the self-proclaimed adventure capital, where you can ride the heart-pounding Shotover Jet, try bungy jumping, or zip down a luge track. As you traverse New Zealand’s North and South Islands, marvel at glaciers, explore vibrant Christchurch, indulge in a traditional Māori ‘hangi’ feast, and cruise across scenic Lake Taupō. Rotorua offers the chance to roll inside a Zorb or enjoy more luge action, while every stop is packed with opportunities for new friendships and exhilarating memories.
This active and outdoor tour’s USP is its focus on adventure activities and authentic local experiences, all set amidst dramatic scenery. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, you’ll have the freedom to chase thrills by day and relax in comfort by night. If you’re a young traveler eager to see New Zealand from every angle—whether on foot, by boat, or in the air—this is the tour package that delivers the best of everything in one action-packed panorama.
New Zealand’s dazzling scenery and rich heritage come alive on the "Journeys: Discover New Zealand" tour, a 12-day active exploration from Auckland to Queenstown. Tailored for experienced and senior travelers, this trip weaves together plane, train, van, and boat journeys, revealing the country’s breathtaking fjords, glowworm caves, snowcapped peaks, and vibrant cities. Taste wine at picturesque vineyards, cruise through Fiordland National Park, and immerse yourself in Maori culture. The seamless blend of adventure and comfort makes this tour package stand out as the ultimate way to experience both the North and South Islands’ natural and cultural highlights.
Why choose between North and South Island when you can do it all? The "New Zealand Multisport" tour is a 22-day adventure tailor-made for young adults and experienced travelers keen on moderate activity. Hike, kayak, and cycle your way through jaw-dropping landscapes—from the volcanic peaks of Tongariro to the tranquil waters of Whanganui National Park. Alongside outdoor thrills, enjoy boat cruises and opportunities to connect with local culture. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, this tour ensures you don’t miss a highlight. Its USP is the seamless blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and scenic downtime, creating an unforgettable, all-encompassing Kiwi adventure.
Pressed for time but want to see it all? The Highlights of New Zealand tour is your answer—a 15-day journey designed for young adults and experienced travelers alike. Start in Auckland and traverse both islands, from glowworm-lit caves in Waitomo to Maori cultural experiences and adrenaline-filled days in Queenstown.
This photography-focused trip ensures you capture every breathtaking landscape, including Hahei’s beaches and Kaikoura’s wildlife-rich shores.
The USP: A masterfully curated tour package that delivers New Zealand’s must-see highlights and hidden gems, perfect for those wanting to experience the best of both islands in just two weeks.
Now's the time to explore New Zealand on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. They say good travel happens on small islands. Regardless of whether or not that's an actual saying, the small islands of New Zealand pack plenty of exploratory punch. Go from kayaking in Raglan to hiking in Abel Tasman National Park to cruising remote fjords and taking in some Insta-worthy views. But if you’re short on travel dollars, fear not; this trip squeezes in the very best of both the North and South Islands into an affordable, action-packed 21-day itinerary where you'll move swiftly without feeling rushed.
Craving adventure and adrenaline amidst jaw-dropping scenery? New Zealand: South Island Encompassed is a 16-day group trip tailored for young adults who want action-packed days and wild nights. From Wellington, traverse the island’s rainforests, glaciers, and rugged coastlines, taking part in everything from photography walks to wilderness hostel stays deep in the rainforest. The itinerary offers endless opportunities for thrill-seekers—whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the epic landscapes. The trip’s USP is its energetic, social vibe and focus on immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences, ensuring every day is a new adventure in New Zealand’s south.
Adrenaline meets awe on the New Zealand – South Island Multisport tour, a 15-day escapade that’s perfect for young adults and experienced travelers with a zest for the outdoors. Embark on a journey across Franz Josef’s glaciers, the wild coastlines of Kaikoura, and the adventure capital of Queenstown. Kayak the golden shores of Abel Tasman, cruise the majestic Milford Sound, and cycle scenic trails near Mt Cook. The unique selling point of this trip is its multi-activity format—sea kayaking, biking, hiking, and more—offering you an exhilarating way to experience the South Island’s legendary landscapes from every angle.
Craving adventure in New Zealand’s North Island? The North Island Multisport tour is your ticket to action, blending biking, hiking, jet boating, and kayaking across eight electrifying days. From the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the dramatic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, and the wild Whanganui River, this guided active trip is designed for energetic travelers and thrill-seekers. Experience the world-renowned Tongariro Crossing, fast-flowing rivers, and a traditional hangi dinner. The unique aspect of this package is its dynamic mix of outdoor activities that provide a true taste of New Zealand’s diverse and breathtaking scenery.
Craving adventure in the Land of the Long White Cloud? The New Zealand: Best of the North Island trip is tailor-made for young travelers seeking action and culture. Over seven days, paddle a sea kayak in secluded harbors, learn to surf iconic breaks, and dive deep into Maori heritage.
This photography-focused tour connects you with nature and local traditions, from the geothermal wonders of Taupo to Wellington’s creative pulse.
What sets this trip apart is its immersive, hands-on approach to New Zealand’s adventure scene—perfect for those wanting to live, breathe, and capture the North Island’s spirit in just one energetic tour package.
Over 20 optional adventures & a banquet of inclusions; this is going to be a week to remember. The brave will hurl themselves down a hill in an inflated Zorb ball, the more chilled will take a boat cruise around the Bay of Islands. Then we'll all compare notes of Hobbits, fish 'n' chips, the Haka over a few drinks in the city of Auckland.
For Akriti, writing found her long before her love for travel did; she blames her acute motion sickness for the delayed onset of the latter. But when the two interests did meet, it resulted in many memorable (and sometimes revolting) travel stories. As a traveler, she enjoys challenging treks as much as lazy walks on the beach. She hates road trips unless it is on the back of a truck or a motorbike. She loves good food; even more so when paired with a local drink.
Readers will find her writing to be much like her hometown of Kathmandu—rich, soulful and quirky.
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