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: 1-Hour Jet Boat Adventure Queenstown with Music Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown Merino Farm Experience Queenstown Helicopter Experience Exclusive Earnslaw Burn Glacier Full Day Canyoning in Glenorchy Paradise from Queenstown

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 →

1-Hour Jet Boat Adventure Queenstown with Music

xperience Queenstown differently with Thunder Jet – the only Queenstown jet boat with music on board, combining high-speed adventure with our very own soundtrack, 360° …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

4.9 (13)

1-Hour Jet Boat Adventure Queenstown with Music

xperience Queenstown differently with Thunder Jet – the only Queenstown jet boat with music on board, combining high-speed adventure with our very own soundtrack, 360°...

1 hour Free Cancellation

4.9 (13)

from
$90

Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

The only helicopter experience that combines a Milford Sound flyover with two incredible landings — a remote alpine peak and the cinematic Earnslaw Burn showcasing …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (8)

Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

The only helicopter experience that combines a Milford Sound flyover with two incredible landings — a remote alpine peak and the cinematic Earnslaw Burn showcasing...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (8)

from
$972

Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life. Be guided by the family owners and operators on …More

Canterbury, New Zealand

5.0 (9)

Merino Farm Experience

Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life. Be guided by the family owners and operators on...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (9)

from
$54

Queenstown Helicopter Experience Exclusive Earnslaw Burn Glacier

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Earnslaw Burn, home to a stunning hanging glacier, vibrant blue ice, and cascading waterfalls. As the only company permitted to …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (9)

Queenstown Helicopter Experience Exclusive Earnslaw Burn Glacier

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Earnslaw Burn, home to a stunning hanging glacier, vibrant blue ice, and cascading waterfalls. As the only company permitted to...

1 hour Free Cancellation

5.0 (9)

from
$565

Full Day Canyoning in Glenorchy Paradise from Queenstown

- Experience nature in a whole new way - Small groups sizes of up to 10 persons maximum - No experience required - Enjoy an …More

Queenstown, New Zealand

5.0 (1)

Full Day Canyoning in Glenorchy Paradise from Queenstown

- Experience nature in a whole new way - Small groups sizes of up to 10 persons maximum - No experience required - Enjoy an...

7 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (1)

from
$226

Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins 1 Way Small Group Tour

Explore New Zealand’s wild southern coast on a scenic one-way tour from Dunedin to Invercargill, traversing the breathtaking Catlins. This full-day adventure features stunning landscapes, …More

Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula, New Zealand

5.0 (5)

Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins 1 Way Small Group Tour

Explore New Zealand’s wild southern coast on a scenic one-way tour from Dunedin to Invercargill, traversing the breathtaking Catlins. This full-day adventure features stunning landscapes,...

9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

5.0 (5)

from
$142

Auckland : Rotorua Tepuia Tour w Redwoods, Haka & Hangi Buffet

Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua on this guided tour from Auckland. Visit Te Puia to witness the impressive Pōhutu Geyser and bubbling mud pools …More

Auckland, New Zealand

4.9 (8)

Auckland : Rotorua Tepuia Tour w Redwoods, Haka & Hangi Buffet

Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua on this guided tour from Auckland. Visit Te Puia to witness the impressive Pōhutu Geyser and bubbling mud pools...

11 to 12 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.9 (8)

from
$221

8-Hour Private Scenic Kapiti Coast Tour from Wellington

You get to have your own dedicated Driver/Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy an 8-hour private tour from Wellington capturing the best …More

Wellington, New Zealand

5.0 (14)

8-Hour Private Scenic Kapiti Coast Tour from Wellington

You get to have your own dedicated Driver/Guide and 'Memory Creator' for your entire tour. Enjoy an 8-hour private tour from Wellington capturing the best...

7 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

5.0 (14)

from
$225

Kaikoura Albatross Encounter Tour from Christchurch

Kaikoura is famous for whales and dolphins and arguably one of the world's most exciting arenas for ocean going birds. This full day tour accompanies …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

4.5 (2)

Kaikoura Albatross Encounter Tour from Christchurch

Kaikoura is famous for whales and dolphins and arguably one of the world's most exciting arenas for ocean going birds. This full day tour accompanies...

11 hours Hotel pickup offered

4.5 (2)

from
$227

Franz Josef to Christchurch 1-Way Transfer Via TranzAlpine Train

Journey from Franz Josef to Christchurch on one of New Zealand’s most iconic scenic routes. Travel along the rugged West Coast, known for its wild …More

Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand

4.7 (3)

Franz Josef to Christchurch 1-Way Transfer Via TranzAlpine Train

Journey from Franz Josef to Christchurch on one of New Zealand’s most iconic scenic routes. Travel along the rugged West Coast, known for its wild...

12 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.7 (3)

from
$324

WAITOMO - Twin Caves Discovery - Private Day Tour from Auckland

The Waitomo Twin Caves Discovery combines two iconic caves: the Glowworm Cave and Ruakuri Cave. Glowworm Cave: Famous for its glowworms that light up the …More

Auckland, New Zealand

5.0 (3)

WAITOMO - Twin Caves Discovery - Private Day Tour from Auckland

The Waitomo Twin Caves Discovery combines two iconic caves: the Glowworm Cave and Ruakuri Cave. Glowworm Cave: Famous for its glowworms that light up the...

10 hours Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (3)

from
$445

Black Labyrinth: Black Water Rafting - Private Tour from Auckland

Experience the ultimate underground adventure as you journey from Auckland in a luxurious private vehicle to the spectacular Waitomo region. Dive into the thrilling world …More

Auckland, New Zealand

5.0 (9)

Black Labyrinth: Black Water Rafting - Private Tour from Auckland

Experience the ultimate underground adventure as you journey from Auckland in a luxurious private vehicle to the spectacular Waitomo region. Dive into the thrilling world...

11 hours Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (9)

from
$800

Rotorua & Taupo DayTour with Waiotapu & Huka Falls from Auckland

This tour is Small Group Tour from Auckland We Will explore the Rotorua & Taupo Highlight Spot We visit several of North Island's highlight spots, …More

Auckland, New Zealand

4.7 (16)

Rotorua & Taupo DayTour with Waiotapu & Huka Falls from Auckland

This tour is Small Group Tour from Auckland We Will explore the Rotorua & Taupo Highlight Spot We visit several of North Island's highlight spots,...

12 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.7 (16)

from
$487

Private Flight: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings - 60mins

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife …More

Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand

5.0 (3)

Private Flight: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings - 60mins

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife...

2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (3)

from
$1,978

Mt Cook and Fox Glacier with snow landing (allow 30 mins - departs Fox Glacier)

Mount Cook and Fox Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) Explore the ice pinnacles and seracs of the magnificent Fox Glacier then fly by …More

Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand

4.8 (19)

Mt Cook and Fox Glacier with snow landing (allow 30 mins - departs Fox Glacier)

Mount Cook and Fox Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) Explore the ice pinnacles and seracs of the magnificent Fox Glacier then fly by...

30 minutes Free Cancellation

4.8 (19)

from
$271

Safe Sun-Viewing Tour with two Telescopes in Akaroa

New Zealand's only guided DAILY tour of the Sun! Discover the Sun like never before. Located just a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch, this unique …More

Akaroa, New Zealand

4.9 (7)

Safe Sun-Viewing Tour with two Telescopes in Akaroa

New Zealand's only guided DAILY tour of the Sun! Discover the Sun like never before. Located just a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch, this unique...

30 minutes Free Cancellation

4.9 (7)

from
$22

Wellington Full Day Private Tour in Tesla SUV - All inclusive

Our guests enjoy travelling in the comfort and luxury of electric Tesla SUVs , with zero emissions. We provide a private tour for you, offering …More

Wellington, New Zealand

5.0 (8)

Wellington Full Day Private Tour in Tesla SUV - All inclusive

Our guests enjoy travelling in the comfort and luxury of electric Tesla SUVs , with zero emissions. We provide a private tour for you, offering...

7 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

5.0 (8)

from
$227

Private Tour [3 Days]: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Huka Falls & Lake Taupō

Immerse yourself with panoramic views of an ancient volcanic resting ground. Experience the trek across a dramatic alpine and volcanic landscapes all with stunning views. …More

Auckland, New Zealand

5.0 (1)

Private Tour [3 Days]: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Huka Falls & Lake Taupō

Immerse yourself with panoramic views of an ancient volcanic resting ground. Experience the trek across a dramatic alpine and volcanic landscapes all with stunning views....

3 days Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (1)

from
$3,151

Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Private Tour From Auckland

Experience the moment of magic on a luxurious private tour from Auckland to Waitomo and marvel at thousands of glow worms located beneath the rolling …More

Auckland, New Zealand

5.0 (5)

Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Private Tour From Auckland

Experience the moment of magic on a luxurious private tour from Auckland to Waitomo and marvel at thousands of glow worms located beneath the rolling...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered

5.0 (5)

from
$628

It's all about the experience! Exhilarating! Sightseeing has never been so much fun. Standard tour or made-to-measure, you are sure to enjoy your ride on …More

Christchurch, New Zealand

4.9 (9)

V8 Trike Private Tour of Christchurch

It's all about the experience! Exhilarating! Sightseeing has never been so much fun. Standard tour or made-to-measure, you are sure to enjoy your ride on...

30 to 45 minutes Free Cancellation

4.9 (9)

from
$131

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?