Top Dog

Product Details

The Kiwi Experience is definitely the easiest, most flexible and affordable way to get yourself to the best bits of New Zealand. In a nutshell, it’s a hop on, hop off bus service that takes you to most famous highlights of Kiwi-land, as well as the hidden gems that lie off the beaten track. Hop off the bus when you want to explore an area some more – and when you’re ready to leave, just jump on the next bus to pass your way. The Kiwi Experience is also a great way to make new friends, as every single bus is full to the brim with other backpackers! The Top Dog pass is for those of you who want to explore the awesome bit at the top of the North Island, Paihia. Home to hot springs and Maori culture, you’d be to miss this place out on your tour of NZ!

Pass details

Why buy this?

Loop around the South Island, taking in the beautiful whale-watching capital of New Zealand, scenic Nelson, and the amazing West Coast, down to the adventure capital of the world; Queenstown. Then head up to the North Island to Taupo, Rotorua and Waitomo where you’ll get to experience local culture and awesome scenery. From Auckland your travels will take you to beautiful Paihia in the Bay of Islands, where you can go sailing, fishing, mountain-biking or just take time to chill out on the beach. Ideal for those of you who want to explore right to the tip of the North Island.

Your itinerary

Nelson Westport Lake Mahinapua Franz Josef Wanaka Queenstown Christchurch

Kaikoura Wellington Taupo Rotorua Auckland Paihia

What you get

• Hop-on, hop-off bus pass
• Unbeatable marine experiences in Kaikoura
• Whale watching opportunities
• Swim with dolphins
• Meet a seal colony
• Visit the ‘Poo Pub’
• Visit the Pancake Rocks
• Hike the Franz Josef glacier
• Check out the adventure capital of the World - Queenstown!
• Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo
• Explore Milford Sound
• Explore Tongariro National Park
• Climb up to Central Plateau
• Ngawha Mineral Hot Springs
• Maori culture and 144 islands to explore
• Swim with dolphins
• Boat rides, kayaking and sailing
• Go diving or snorkelling

What you don't get

• Flight to New Zealand
• Visa for New Zealand
• Hostel accommodation
• Travel insurance
• Backpacks and kit

How it works

Once you’ve got your pass, just phone or email Kiwi Experience to book your seat on your first bus. With this pass, you start in Christchurch, work your way around both islands before ending up in Auckland. You can only travel in one direction and each leg may only be travelled once. You can stay in each destination for as long as you like. Kiwi Experience buses will pass through regularly - just phone or email to book a seat when you want to leave. (You can book a seat up to the day before you want to leave, though we advise that you book further ahead at peak times.)

The Kiwi Experience pass is valid for 6 months, which may be extended locally for a fee. You cannot buy the pass more than 12 months in advance of your trip.

Cancellations and refunds

The Kiwi Experience voucher is subject to a £100 cancellation fee before the start date has been confirmed. After the start date has been confirmed, a £100 will be charged and an admin fee may be levied by Kiwi Experience. After the pass has been exchanged, the voucher is non refundable.