New Zealand Tours in December 2025
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10 best New Zealand trips in December 2025
Compiled by

SteffNew Zealand travel expert at TourRadar
- New Zealand Explorer
- New Zealand Uncovered (Southbound) (34 destinations)
- New Zealand's South to North Island Adventure (9 destinations)
- New Zealand Southern Pioneer (including Arrowtown)
- Queenstown Southern Loop
- New Zealand Explorer
- New Zealand South Island Adventure (26 destinations)
- New Zealand Northern Trail (Northbound) (12 destinations)
- Premium New Zealand Encompassed (45 destinations)
- New Zealand Uncovered (Northbound) (34 destinations)
New Zealand Explorer
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This is a great tour of the N and S islands. This was a very interesting and thorough tour, I highly recommend it.”
Duration 19 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Rotorua, Taupo, Napier, Wellington, Picton, Kaikoura, Hokitika, Franz JosefSee all destinations Age Range 16 to 85 year olds Operator Explore! December departure dates
18 Dec, 2025 9 spaces left From $13,860
5% Off- NZ$13,200You save $660
New Zealand Uncovered (Southbound) (34 destinations)
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“New Zealand was amazing- diversity was phenomenal and different between North Island and South Island.”
William, traveled in March
Duration 20 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Raglan, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Marlborough, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Lake TekapoSee all destinations Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates5 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 10 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From $11,135
25% Off- NZ$8,351You save $2,784
New Zealand's South to North Island Adventure (9 destinations)
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great tour, friendly funny guide.”
Kathy, traveled in January
Duration 11 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Marlborough, Wellington, Taupo, Murupara, Rotorua, Coromandel, Auckland Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates21 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 28 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From $3,475
25% Off- NZ$2,606You save $869
Duration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Ohau, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Greymouth Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Dec, 2025 9 spaces left 15 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From $5,590
25% Off- NZ$4,192You save $1,398
Duration 6 days Destinations Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Stewart Island Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates13 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 27 Dec, 2025 4 spaces left From
25% Off- NZ$3,650
New Zealand Explorer
22 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Had the best experience in South and North Island for different reasons. The group and the guides were amazing and good sports.”
David, traveled in January
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo, Raglan, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range 18 to 39 year olds Operator Wild Kiwi December departure dates
See All Departure Dates6 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 13 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From
25% Off- NZ$3,946+$592 upfront costs
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Westport, Punakaiki, Kumara, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates7 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 21 Dec, 2025 4 spaces left From
25% Off- NZ$6,990
Duration 10 days Destinations Wellington, Taupo, Rotorua, Raglan, Coromandel, Auckland Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
8 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From
25% Off- NZ$4,990
New Zealand Uncovered (Northbound) (34 destinations)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Outstanding overview of the entire country. Provided numerous activities at all locations.”
Tim, traveled in March
Duration 20 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Ohau, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Greymouth, Kaikoura, WellingtonSee all destinations Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
27 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From $11,145
20% Off- NZ$8,916You save $2,229
What people love about New Zealand Tours in December
- New Zealand Explorer
I had such an amazing time exploring the North and South Islands that I’m hoping to come back with Wild Kiwi next year. Mark was an incredible guide, such a fun personality and really put us all at ease. Some of the days involved pretty long bus journeys due to NZ’s geography but Mark did a great job of breaking up the bus time by taking us to cool little towns, short hikes or view points. The pit stops made sure you didnt feel like you’d lost a day to travel and a couple of these stop offs ended up being some of my favourite parts of the trip. Thanks mark and all of the team and WK, you were awesome!
- New Zealand's North to South Island Adventure (9 destinations)
My husband and I went on a week long trip with Haka Tours. I was skeptical at first. I'm 53, not very active and afraid of my own shadow. Our tour guide "Burto" made our trip so fun and comfortable for everyone no matter their age, activity level or whether or not they would bungie jump or skydive. My only regret was only going for a week. So, we are doing the 23 day tour February 2019. See you soon New Zealand.
- Southern Voyager
I have just done a week solo around the south island, What an experience! Fantastic mix of people and ages. Being alone I was apprehensive of making friends, as its a smaller concentrated group this was no issue at all. The driver, Robbie, delivered outstanding knowledge and fun facts. He really takes care of every bodies needs and joins in like hes also on the trip. Robbie made everything very clear and easy to book trips or activities along the way so you can sit and enjoy the journey. Also we were all very impressed with all the accommodation and would highly recommend this luxury affordable way to travel the south. Don't forget the Canyon Swing!!!!
What our customers ask about New Zealand Tours in December 2025
What special events and festivals can I experience in New Zealand during December?
December brings a vibrant mix of summer festivals and holiday celebrations to New Zealand. Major cities like Auckland and Christchurch host open-air Christmas in the Park concerts that draw thousands of locals and visitors. Food enthusiasts can head to Queenstown for the Central Otago Wine & Food Festival. The geothermal city of Rotorua offers holiday-themed Maori performances and traditional hangi feasts at Te Puia. For movie buffs the Hobbiton Movie Set transforms into a festive wonderland with evening tours that show off the decorated Shire.
What are the accommodation options and rates like in December?
December marks the high season in New Zealand with rooms filling up quickly. High-end properties like the Cordis in Auckland and QT Queenstown command $200-500 USD per night. Nature lovers can book stays at places like the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier which puts guests close to natural wonders. Budget-conscious travelers will find hostels and motels available at lower rates though these also require advance booking. Most properties increase their rates during this peak period making early reservations essential.
What kind of weather can I expect in New Zealand's South Island during December?
The South Island enjoys warm summer days in December with temperatures typically reaching 20-25°C (68-77°F). The Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook regions offer clear skies ideal for outdoor activities while coastal areas like Kaikoura maintain comfortable temperatures. Visitors should note that mountain weather can change quickly. The Wild Kiwi tour reports "20 April - 3 May best weather!! First week we had 18 people and the next week 7." Packing layers remains essential especially around glacial areas.
How do transportation costs and availability differ in December?
Peak season pricing affects all transport options in December. Domestic flights connecting Auckland to Queenstown typically cost between $150-300 USD. The scenic TranzAlpine train running from Christchurch to Greymouth costs $160-200 USD per passenger. The Interislander Ferry between the North and South Islands sees high demand. Transport operators recommend booking at least 3-4 months ahead particularly for popular routes during this busy period.
What are the best Christmas-themed experiences in New Zealand?
New Zealand's Christmas celebrations blend traditional holiday customs with local culture. Auckland's Franklin Road becomes a light-filled wonderland while Wellington's Te Papa museum curates special holiday exhibits. In Rotorua Te Puia combines Christmas festivities with Maori cultural experiences. The Walter Peak High Country Farm near Queenstown offers holiday dining with views across Lake Wakatipu creating memorable Christmas experiences for visitors.
What wildlife experiences are available in New Zealand during December?
December's warm weather creates prime conditions for wildlife viewing. Kaikoura's waters attract sperm whales dolphins and seals making it a top spot for marine life encounters. Abel Tasman National Park offers opportunities to spot native birds including the melodious Tui and the ancient Tuatara. Guided tours provide access to these natural habitats while boat excursions along the Kaikoura Coast bring visitors close to thriving seal colonies.