Top New Zealand Outdoor Activities

Q: What are the best options for New Zealand Outdoor Activities?

According to verified reviews on Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor, the best New Zealand Outdoor Activities are: Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch Browns Island Motukorea Sea Kayak Tour A Taste of Wellington: Wellington Foodie Delights Tour 3 Day Private Photography Tour West Coast NZ Departs Queenstown Private Luxury Glenorchy/ Mt Aspiring Park Portrait 4WD Tour

Q: What are the best kid-friendly options for New Zealand Outdoor Activities Tours?

According to verified reviews on Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor, the best kid-friendly New Zealand Outdoor Activities are: Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo 60 Minute Jet Boat Ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown Small-Group Zipline Adventure in Queenstown View all kid-friendly Tours →

Q: Which New Zealand Outdoor Activities have Instant Confirmation?

New Zealand Outdoor Activities with Instant Confirmation include: Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience NZONE Skydive Queenstown Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo 60 Minute Jet Boat Ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown View all Tours with Instant Confirmation →

Q: I need a ride! Which New Zealand Outdoor Activities have Hotel Pickup?

No problem. These New Zealand Outdoor Activities include Hotel Pickup: Rotorua White Water Rafting | Kaitiaki Adventures + Transport Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau Queenstown: Pilot's Choice Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing Mt Cook & Tekapo Small-Group Tour from Christchurch with lunch Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch View all Tours with Hotel Pickup →

Q: Got any more New Zealand trip ideas?

We sure do. Check out our curated lists of hand-picked New Zealand Tours. Top 10 New Zealand 2026 Senior-friendly tours New Zealand The best tours and activities for culture lovers in New Zealand Top Day Trips from New Zealand Things to do in New Zealand this summer View all New Zealand Trip Ideas →

Q: What are the most popular styles of Tours and Activities in New Zealand?

Based on our sales data over the past year, the most popular styles of tours and activities in New Zealand are: New Zealand Luxury & Special Occasions New Zealand Luxury Tours New Zealand Tours & Sightseeing New Zealand Outdoor Activities New Zealand Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours View all tour styles in New Zealand →

Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch

Watch whales and swim with dolphins. This is a overnight delight for all those who wish to get close to nature. Journey from Christchurch to …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

4.5 (8)

Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch

Watch whales and swim with dolphins. This is a overnight delight for all those who wish to get close to nature. Journey from Christchurch to...

2 days Hotel pickup offered

4.5 (8)

from
$556

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, …More

Auckland, New Zealand

4.8 (10)

Browns Island Motukorea Sea Kayak Tour

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago,...

4 hours Free Cancellation

4.8 (10)

from
$86

A Taste of Wellington: Wellington Foodie Delights Tour

Your tour is your tour only! No mixed groups! You get to have your own dedicated Driver/Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy …More

Wellington, New Zealand

5.0 (13)

A Taste of Wellington: Wellington Foodie Delights Tour

Your tour is your tour only! No mixed groups! You get to have your own dedicated Driver/Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy...

7 to 8 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (13)

from
$310

3 Day Private Photography Tour West Coast NZ Departs Queenstown

Join us for a photography expedition to the untamed Wild West Coast of Te Wai Pounamu, New Zealand’s South Island. This remote region, framed by …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (2)

3 Day Private Photography Tour West Coast NZ Departs Queenstown

Join us for a photography expedition to the untamed Wild West Coast of Te Wai Pounamu, New Zealand’s South Island. This remote region, framed by...

3 days Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (2)

from
$1,605

Private Luxury Glenorchy/ Mt Aspiring Park Portrait 4WD Tour

We photograph your tour professionally, so you can sit back and relax. From posed photographs through to candid ones, we'll be helping you feel relaxed …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (4)

Private Luxury Glenorchy/ Mt Aspiring Park Portrait 4WD Tour

We photograph your tour professionally, so you can sit back and relax. From posed photographs through to candid ones, we'll be helping you feel relaxed...

6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

5.0 (4)

from
$1,418

Whaka Geothermal Trails Self-Guided Tour

Our new geothermal nature trails provide exclusive access to an untouched geothermal landscape where visitors can experience the raw nature of Papatuanuku (mother-earth). The Jurassic …More

Rotorua, New Zealand

3.9 (43)

Whaka Geothermal Trails Self-Guided Tour

Our new geothermal nature trails provide exclusive access to an untouched geothermal landscape where visitors can experience the raw nature of Papatuanuku (mother-earth). The Jurassic...

30 to 60 minutes Free Cancellation

3.9 (43)

from
$25

Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance - 50mins

Welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake's Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition. This 50-minute …More

Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand

4.9 (9)

Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance - 50mins

Welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake's Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition. This 50-minute...

50 minutes Free Cancellation

4.9 (9)

from
$456

Roxburgh Gorge Bike Hire with Jet Boat & Return Shuttle Included

The Roxburgh Gorge Trail Experience is a purpose built Official NZ Great Ride (Grade 1 to 3) that follows the Clutha River. Alongside the Lake …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (8)

Roxburgh Gorge Bike Hire with Jet Boat & Return Shuttle Included

The Roxburgh Gorge Trail Experience is a purpose built Official NZ Great Ride (Grade 1 to 3) that follows the Clutha River. Alongside the Lake...

6 hours 15 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (8)

from
$213

Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour

See the land where The Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed. After a complimentary hotel pickup, you will arrive and meet your helicopter pilot. …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

4.9 (45)

Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour

See the land where The Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed. After a complimentary hotel pickup, you will arrive and meet your helicopter pilot....

1 hour 10 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.9 (45)

from
$730

15-Minute Crater Lakes Flight by Floatplane from Rotorua

Join us to view Rotorua beyond the crater rim. Enjoy spectacular views of our hidden lakes district, distant volcanoes and local geothermal activity in this …More

Rotorua, New Zealand

5.0 (10)

15-Minute Crater Lakes Flight by Floatplane from Rotorua

Join us to view Rotorua beyond the crater rim. Enjoy spectacular views of our hidden lakes district, distant volcanoes and local geothermal activity in this...

15 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (10)

from
$155

Mount Tarawera Volcanic Adventure by Helicopter

By Helicopter , combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera (for an approximate 20 minute guided walk with your pilot) with a flight that …More

Rotorua, New Zealand

4.9 (12)

Mount Tarawera Volcanic Adventure by Helicopter

By Helicopter , combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera (for an approximate 20 minute guided walk with your pilot) with a flight that...

1 hour Free Cancellation

4.9 (12)

from
$570

Private Self Drive Xtreme 30 and X Track Activity

Based in beautiful Kingston just 30mins from Queenstown Airport at the south end of Lake Wakatipu Xtreme Off Road match world-class vehicles with out of …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

4.9 (51)

Private Self Drive Xtreme 30 and X Track Activity

Based in beautiful Kingston just 30mins from Queenstown Airport at the south end of Lake Wakatipu Xtreme Off Road match world-class vehicles with out of...

30 minutes Free Cancellation

4.9 (51)

from
$126

30 minute Tasman Experience - scenic helicopter flight

Get the cameras ready for one of the best glacier experiences in New Zealand. Climb up the Franz Josef Glacier, crossing the main divide at …More

Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand

5.0 (3)

30 minute Tasman Experience - scenic helicopter flight

Get the cameras ready for one of the best glacier experiences in New Zealand. Climb up the Franz Josef Glacier, crossing the main divide at...

30 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (3)

from
$246

Skydive Mt. Cook - 45+ Seconds of Freefall from 13,000ft

Enjoy New Zealand’s most stunning skydiving experience! Located in Pukaki and boasting some of the country’s most epic scenery. Skydive Mt Cook offers quintessential South …More

Aoraki Mount Cook (Mount Cook Village), New Zealand

5.0 (16)

Skydive Mt. Cook - 45+ Seconds of Freefall from 13,000ft

Enjoy New Zealand’s most stunning skydiving experience! Located in Pukaki and boasting some of the country’s most epic scenery. Skydive Mt Cook offers quintessential South...

2 hours

5.0 (16)

from
$229

Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave - Private Tour From Auckland

Take a trip through the magical underground world of sparkling glowworms and fascinating caverns with a private day tour from Auckland to Waitomo Caves. Visiting …More

Auckland, New Zealand

5.0 (22)

Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave - Private Tour From Auckland

Take a trip through the magical underground world of sparkling glowworms and fascinating caverns with a private day tour from Auckland to Waitomo Caves. Visiting...

11 hours Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (22)

from
$742

Private Tour to Rotorua’s Natural wonders and Māori Arts & craft.

Discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands…in this action packed tour. Featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush explored by Te …More

Auckland, New Zealand

4.8 (4)

Private Tour to Rotorua’s Natural wonders and Māori Arts & craft.

Discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands…in this action packed tour. Featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush explored by Te...

12 hours 30 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.8 (4)

from
$397

Mou Waho Island Cruise & Self-Guided Nature Walk

Enjoy a comfortable cruise on our 28 seat super taxi Moutimu and a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper to answer your questions along the way. Cruise through …More

Wanaka, New Zealand

4.9 (8)

Mou Waho Island Cruise & Self-Guided Nature Walk

Enjoy a comfortable cruise on our 28 seat super taxi Moutimu and a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper to answer your questions along the way. Cruise through...

3 hours Free Cancellation

4.9 (8)

from
$85

Lyttelton 8hr Shore Ex: Akaroa. Guide, Lunch, Transport, Sml Grp

Join our exclusive small-group tour for up to 8 people, designed specifically for cruise ship passengers arriving at Lyttelton Port in Christchurch. Visit Akaroa and …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

5.0 (3)

Lyttelton 8hr Shore Ex: Akaroa. Guide, Lunch, Transport, Sml Grp

Join our exclusive small-group tour for up to 8 people, designed specifically for cruise ship passengers arriving at Lyttelton Port in Christchurch. Visit Akaroa and...

6 to 7 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (3)

from
$332

Inland Canterbury & Castle Hill Tour (Lyttelton Shore Excursion)

This scenic small-group tour includes lunch, transport, and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. Visit country towns, mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the amazing …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

4.8 (5)

Inland Canterbury & Castle Hill Tour (Lyttelton Shore Excursion)

This scenic small-group tour includes lunch, transport, and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. Visit country towns, mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the amazing...

7 hours Free Cancellation

4.8 (5)

from
$300

Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter tour

Fly from Christchurch to view the highest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki Mount Cook—the training ground of Sir Edmund Hillary. Viewing the Canterbury plains, lakes, …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

5.0 (2)

Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter tour

Fly from Christchurch to view the highest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki Mount Cook—the training ground of Sir Edmund Hillary. Viewing the Canterbury plains, lakes,...

3 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (2)

from
$1,782

Frequently Asked Questions

These answers are based on answers previously given to Cool Shore Excursions customers' questions.

What are the best options for New Zealand Outdoor Activities?

What are the best kid-friendly options for New Zealand Outdoor Activities Tours?

Which New Zealand Outdoor Activities have Instant Confirmation?

Which New Zealand Outdoor Activities have Free Cancellation?

New Zealand Outdoor Activities with Free Cancellation (in most cases up to 24 hours in advance of your tour date, check the specific tour page) include:

View all Tours with Free Cancellation →

I need a ride! Which New Zealand Outdoor Activities have Hotel Pickup?

Got any more New Zealand trip ideas?

What are the most popular styles of Tours and Activities in New Zealand?