You don't need to spend big to experience the best of New Zealand. From glowworm-filled caves and geothermal wonders to wildlife encounters, scenic cruises and unforgettable cultural experiences, there are plenty of ways to explore Aotearoa without blowing your budget.
We've picked 20 of the best experiences available for under $100 per person, with 10 experiences across the North Island and 10 across the South Island. Whether you're planning a road trip, travelling with the family or simply looking for something memorable to add to your itinerary, these are great ways to make your travel budget go further.
Prices listed are starting prices and may change.
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10 Best North Island Experiences Under $100
From underground adventures and geothermal wonders to Māori culture and island escapes, there's plenty to discover across the North Island without spending a fortune.
1. Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour – Waitomo
Step underground and discover one of New Zealand's most iconic natural attractions. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves offer an unforgettable journey through an incredible cave environment, followed by the chance to see thousands of tiny glowworms lighting up the darkness.
2. Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland – Rotorua
Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, where volcanic activity has created a spectacular geothermal landscape. It's one of the easiest and affordable ways to experience Rotorua's famous geothermal wonders.
3. Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa – Rotorua
Experience Rotorua's geothermal landscape before slowing things down with a relaxing mud spa experience. Hell's Gate combines geothermal scenery with the chance to unwind, making it a great two-in-one experience.
4. Waitangi Treaty Grounds Cultural Experience – Bay of Islands
Discover one of New Zealand's most significant cultural and historical sites at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. The experience provides an opportunity to learn more about Aotearoa's history and Māori culture while exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands.
5. Te Papa Guided Tour & Museum Entry – Wellington
Get to know New Zealand through its stories, people, culture and history at Te Papa. A guided tour and museum entry is a great way to explore one of Wellington's must-visit attractions and an easy addition to any North Island road trip.
6. Waiheke Hop On Hop Off Explorer Tour – Auckland
Escape the city and spend the day exploring Waiheke Island. The Hop On Hop Off Explorer makes it easy to discover more of the island at your own pace, making this a great option for turning a day in Auckland into an island adventure.
7. Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise to Mine Bay – Taupō
Cruise the pristine waters of Lake Taupō aboard a comfortable sightseeing catamaran and take in the spectacular scenery surrounding the lake. Over 1.5 hours, you'll enjoy views of the volcanic peaks of Ngāuruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu, while learning about the area's volcanic history and Māori mythology through onboard commentary.
The cruise also takes you close to the famous Māori Rock Carvings, with free tea, coffee and a hot homemade muffin included on most departures. With daily departures and a comfortable, wheelchair-friendly vessel, it's an easy and scenic way to experience one of New Zealand's most iconic lakes.
8. All Blacks Experience Guided Tour – Auckland
Discover the story, culture and legacy behind the All Blacks at this interactive Auckland experience. Whether you're a dedicated rugby fan or simply want to learn more about one of New Zealand's most famous sporting institutions, it's a great way to spend a few hours.
9. National Kiwi Hatchery Experience – Rotorua
Get an insight into New Zealand's national bird and the work being done to protect it at the National Kiwi Hatchery. It's a great opportunity to learn more about kiwi conservation and one of New Zealand's most iconic native species.
10. Cape Kidnappers Bird Watching Tour – Hawke's Bay
Get up close to one of New Zealand's most spectacular wildlife experiences with a guided 4WD tour to the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. The tour takes you right to the heart of the world's largest mainland gannet colony, where you can see thousands of these remarkable birds in their natural habitat while taking in spectacular views across Hawke's Bay.
With expert commentary, refreshments and a 3-hour guided tour included, it's an unforgettable wildlife experience for under $100.
10 Best South Island Experiences Under $100
The South Island is packed with dramatic scenery, wildlife and unique experiences. From Queenstown and Wānaka to Christchurch, Tekapo and Dunedin, there's plenty to see and do without spending hundreds.
11. Hot Pools & Day Spa – Hanmer Springs
Slow down and soak up the alpine scenery at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa. Relax in a range of naturally heated thermal pools, enjoy the outdoor pools at your leisure and take in the spectacular surrounding mountain landscape.
With general admission from just $42, it's an easy way to add some relaxation to your South Island road trip without stretching your budget.
12. Floating Sauna and Lake Plunge – Queenstown
Combine relaxation and incredible scenery with a floating sauna and lake plunge experience. Warm up in the sauna before taking a refreshing dip, making this a memorable way to unwind in Queenstown.
13. Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise – Dunedin
Head out onto the water and discover the wildlife and coastal scenery around the Otago Peninsula. It's a fantastic option for nature lovers and a memorable way to experience one of Dunedin's most spectacular areas.
14. Stevensons Island Cruise & Nature Walk – Wānaka
Combine a scenic cruise across Lake Wānaka with a nature walk on Stevensons Island. It's a great way to experience more of the lake and surrounding landscapes while getting out and exploring on foot.
15. Queenstown Lake Million Dollar Boat Cruise – Queenstown
See Queenstown from the water on a relaxed 90-minute cruise across Lake Wakatipu. With spectacular views of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Kelvin Heights, you'll get a different perspective on some of the region's most iconic scenery.
The small-group cruise includes entertaining commentary from a local crew, with both indoor and outdoor seating so you can enjoy the views whatever the weather. There's also a licensed bar onboard, and dogs are welcome too, making this a relaxed and memorable way to experience Queenstown without the premium price tag.
16. Hot Pools, Ice Skating & Snow Tubing – Tekapo
Make the most of the alpine setting at Tekapo Springs with a combination of hot pools, ice skating and snow tubing. It's a great-value option for anyone wanting to mix relaxation with a little winter fun.
17. International Antarctic Centre – Christchurch
Experience a taste of Antarctica in Christchurch at the International Antarctic Centre. Learn more about the world's southernmost continent and enjoy an interactive experience that's particularly handy for a rainy day.
18. Wine Hopper Bus with Queenstown Wine Trail – Queenstown
Spend an afternoon exploring the vineyards of the Gibbston Valley with the freedom to visit wineries at your own pace. The Wine Hopper Bus provides return transport from Queenstown, with an hourly circuit making it easy to hop between some of the region's best wineries and tasting rooms.
Visit up to six wineries, sample Central Otago Pinot Noir and other local wines, or stop for lunch while taking in the spectacular scenery. With an expert guide on hand to help plan your day, it's a great-value way to experience Queenstown's famous wine country without needing to drive.
19. Private Rainforest Wood Fired Hot Tub – Franz Josef
Slow down and soak up the tranquillity of the West Coast with a private wood-fired hot tub surrounded by native rainforest. Settle into the warm waters for an hour while listening to the nearby river and taking in the peaceful natural surroundings.
It's the perfect way to unwind after exploring the West Coast, with towels, drinking water and changing facilities included. Best of all, you can enjoy this private experience with friends or family without breaking the $100 budget.
20. Christchurch Gondola Tickets
Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Cavendish for breathtaking 360-degree views across Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. Explore the observation deck, walking trails and Christchurch Discovery Ride, then take your time enjoying the scenery from the summit.
Make Your Budget Go Further in New Zealand
You don't need a huge budget to experience the best of Aotearoa.
From exploring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and discovering Rotorua's geothermal wonders in the North Island to cruising alpine lakes, spotting wildlife and enjoying Christchurch's iconic attractions in the South, there are plenty of ways to make your New Zealand road trip memorable without spending a fortune.
And these 20 are just the beginning. With experiences available across New Zealand for under $100 per person, it's easy to find something that fits your itinerary, interests and budget.
