✨ Kiwi Quest: A Worldschooling Adventure Across New Zealand’s South Island
Pack your sense of wonder and bring the kids—this is not your average holiday. Kiwi Quest is a fully guided, family-friendly Worldschool Camp through New Zealand’s stunning South Island.
Designed with purpose, adventure, and connection in mind, this 12-day journey showcases the dramatic landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook, the mighty Franz Josef Glacier, serene Lake Tekapo, and the adrenaline hub of Queenstown—all without the hassle of planning.
You’ll explore breathtaking alpine terrain, ride the iconic TranzAlpine railway, cruise Milford Sound, soak in natural hot springs, and engage in cultural and ecological learning—all while bonding with like-minded families.
This Camp is designed for ages 12+
🧭 Highlights:
🚂 Ride the scenic TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps
🛥️ Explore the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound by cruise
🏔️ Visit Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and Franz Josef Glacier
🌿 Soak in Tekapo hot springs & stargaze in a Dark Sky Reserve
🐑 Experience Kiwi culture, farm life, and Māori heritage
👨👩👧👦 Connect with a travelling community of worldschooling families
🧳 Inclusions:
✅ All accommodation (family-friendly lodgings throughout)
✅ All transportation and scenic transfers
✅ Daily breakfasts and select group meals
✅ Local expert guides & cultural experiences
✅ Entrances and activities as per itinerary
✅ Worldschool-friendly itinerary & community connections
🧒 A Camp with Purpose
At Dream Big Travels, we believe the world is the best classroom. This Worldschool Camp is designed to enrich your child’s worldview through:
✅ Real-world learning
✅ Nature immersion
✅ Cultural appreciation
✅ Shared adventure
This isn’t just a trip—it’s a memory-making, mind-expanding, joy-filled journey into the heart of New Zealand.
🎓 Designed With Homeschoolers in Mind
Every family receives a kids' travel workbook curated by Dream Big Travels, aligned with Australian homeschooling learning outcomes. Expect thoughtful questions, reflection prompts, and fun fact scavenger hunts designed for curious minds.
🌟 Join the Waitlist
We’re currently finalising group rates, but here’s what to expect:
Estimated Price Range Per Person (age 12+):
Including International Flights From $4,399 AUD
(All prices can be adjusted to support International Campers wishing to join. Land Only prices may be more expensive due to airfare and hotel bundling)
Spaces will be limited.
Register your interest today and be first in line when bookings open.
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Embark on a journey through New Zealand's wonders: from Auckland's Maori heritage to the enchanting Waitomo Glow-worm Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set. Explore Rotorua's geothermal parks and breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound. Next, venture to the Southern Alps for Mount Cook and the serene Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo. End your adventure in vibrant Christchurch.
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure down under! Pack your bags and head to the departure airport*, where you'll begin your journey with a flight to Auckland.
*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
Arrival at Auckland International Airport, proceed to the Terminal exit to meet your Super Shuttle driver. You can contact them using the provided number for assistance. They will then transfer you to your hotel. Overnight stay in Auckland.
Note: Please be aware that there won't be a driver waiting for you inside the terminal upon arrival. Additionally, there may be stops along the way to drop off other passengers within the general route to the hotel. -
Discover Auckland's most famous landmarks at your own pace with our 24-hour hop-on-hop-off bus ticket! The tour offers informative commentary and excellent service, ensuring a memorable journey through the city's highlights.
The Red route, which takes about an hour to complete, offers a scenic tour of tree-lined streets, stunning beaches, and trendy shops. Don't rush—hop off at any stop to explore the sights that catch your eye. The tour operates daily, except on December 25th, from 9 am to 5 pm, with departures every 30 minutes until 4 pm. Please note that stops include Downtown Auckland, the Art Gallery, Queen Street, Newmarket shopping precinct, Holy Trinity Cathedral for Parnell Village, Bastian Point Lookout, and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's. It's the perfect way to navigate New Zealand's biggest city. Overnight stay in Auckland. -
Today, you have a free day to further explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Auckland, known as "The City of Sails." You can explore the bustling streets of downtown and marvel at the views from the top of the Sky Tower. If you're seeking thrills, don't miss the vineyards and paradisiacal beaches of Waiheke. For culture lovers, visit the Auckland Museum.
Immerse yourself in Maori history and traditions there. You'll see an authentic cultural village. If you prefer nature, go to the trails of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. There, you'll find hidden waterfalls and lush landscapes. For adrenaline lovers, we recommend walking across the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Or, you could bungee jump from the Sky Tower.
At Exoticca, we highly recommend indulging in some incredible activities, such as visiting Waiheke Island* or exploring Auckland's rugged West Coast**. Reminding you that you cannot do both tours at the same time. Overnight stay in Auckland.
*Optional Tour to Waiheke Island: Embark on a day trip to Waiheke Island, complete with a return ferry ride and a half-day tour that includes a visit to a vineyard for wine tasting.
**Optional Tour to Auckland's Wild West Coast: Immerse yourself in the Auckland West Coast Wilderness Experience—a captivating afternoon half-day tour that takes you through the untamed beauty of Auckland's wild west coast, including a scenic bush walk. -
Join us on an enchanting journey to the renowned Waitomo Glow-worm Caves! A knowledgeable guide will lead you. You'll embark on a captivating tour through these underground wonders. There, you'll encounter fascinating glow-worms. They light up the ancient limestone caves, which formed over 30 million years ago. Conclude your exploration with a serene boat cruise through the mesmerizing glow-worm grotto.
Next, we go to Matamata. It's the charming home of the Hobbiton Movie Set. The set is famous as the iconic filming location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton movies. Immerse yourself in Hobbiton's magic. Then, we'll continue our scenic coach journey to Rotorua.
This tour includes guided tours of the Waitomo Glow-worm Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set. It also includes comfy and scenic coach travel with informative commentary. Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off provided. Join us for an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery! Overnight stay in Rotorua. -
Today, you'll have a full day to immerse yourself in the wonders of Rotorua. Today you’ll immerse yourself in the rich Maori heritage at Te Puia. Delve into the enchanting Te Puia geothermal reserve with entry included. Join a guided tour through the mesmerizing geysers and other thermal wonders, and be greeted with a traditional Maori welcome followed by a captivating cultural show.
If you're interested in culture, there you’ll discover the rich Maori heritage. You'll learn its history, dance, and craftsmanship. You'll also enjoy an authentic show. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland will amaze nature lovers, surrounded by geysers, mud pools, and colorful lakes.
And don't miss out on exciting outdoor adventures! It offers something for everyone. There are activities from hiking to mountain biking, white-water rafting, and zorbing. We recommend an optional activity, a tour of Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu Thermal Valleys**. Overnight stay in Rotorua.
*Optional half-day tour to Wai-o-tapu and Waimangu Thermal Valleys: Embark on an unforgettable half-day adventure through New Zealand's most breathtaking volcanic region. Experience the remarkable geothermal activity and marvel at the stunning volcanic landscapes of Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Volcanic Valley on our highly acclaimed Geothermal Wonderland Tour. Witness the awe-inspiring eruptions of Lady Knox Geyser, explore colorful volcanic craters, and soak in the beauty of sizzling hot pools and boiling hot springs amidst lush rainforest and native birdlife. -
Transfer from your hotel to Rotorua Airport with our convenient shuttle service. During the journey, we may make brief stops to pick up fellow travelers. Remember that the package includes your flight from Rotorua to Queenstown.
Upon arrival in Queenstown, proceed through the terminal to meet your Super Shuttle driver. The driver will transport you to your hotel. Once you are checked in, you will have free time to explore and enjoy the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Queenstown. -
Discover the natural beauty of Milford Sound with a scenic coach ride from Queenstown and an unforgettable cruise on the fiord. Depart Queenstown, travel by coach past glacier lakes and into Fiordland National Park. Capture some memorable shots of Mirror Lakes or the ancient alpine forests at photo stops along the way.
Our coach will give you sensational views of the Southern Alps. Next, board your cruise in Milford Sound to explore the spectacular fiord. Venture out to the Tasman Sea while cruising past tumbling waterfalls, glacier-scarred rock walls and lush rainforests. Return to Queenstown by coach.
Note: This tour includes a full-day excursion operating daily between the specified dates. See scenic stops at Milford Sound. They include Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel. You can also explore Fiordland National Park. -
Today, you have a free day to explore Queenstown. You can try bungee jumping from the iconic Kawarau Bridge, skydiving over breathtaking landscapes, or jet boating through the thrilling rapids of the Shotover River.
For a more relaxed time, hike scenic trails. You can also take a gondola to Bob's Peak, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the city and Lake Wakatipu. Additionally, consider cruises on Lake Wakatipu or indulge in wine tasting tours in the nearby Central Otago wine region. Explore the lively town center with its boutique shops, art galleries, and dining options, and delve into local history at the Queenstown Museum.
Don't miss the chance to catch live performances at the Queenstown Theatre. We also recommend our optional tours, such as a thrilling ride on the Shotover River* or a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu**. Overnight stay in Queenstown.
*Optional tour on the Shotover: Take a thrilling ride on the Shotover where you'll experience heart-pounding excitement as you navigate the stunning Shotover River.
**Optional tout across Lake Wakatipu: Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. This iconic steamship will take you to Walter Peak Station, where you can enjoy a fascinating farm demonstration and savor a delicious buffet lunch or dinner at the Homestead Restaurant, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. -
This morning, take an adventure into the majestic Southern Alps and get up close to Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Depart on a luxury coach and drive through some spectacular scenery towards Mount Cook.
Start with a drive through the rugged Kawarau Gorge that leads into the Cromwell region and its fruit orchards. Then, cross the Lindis Pass and experience the tawny tussock of the Mackenzie Country. Arrive at Mount Cook Village and explore the Mount Cook National Park and its majestic views (lunch at own expense). Overnight stay in Mount Cook Village. -
This morning is free to spend at your leisure in the Mount Cook area. In the afternoon, board your coach and continue the trip towards Christchurch. Enjoy views of the crystal-clear lakes and the Church of the Good Shepherd, which sits in solitude on the foreshore of Lake Tekapo (depending on your accommodation, this may take place on a different day).
Continue through the Canterbury Plains before arriving at Christchurch, where you will be dropped at your hotel. Overnight stay in Christchurch. -
Enjoy a leisurely day in Christchurch to explore at your own pace. You can visit the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, take a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River, or explore the vibrant Riverside Market for local foods and crafts!
To make your last day memorable, we recommend booking the City Triple Pass* for a special experience of the city's iconic sights. Overnight stay in Christchurch.
*Optional City Triple Pass: Embark on a journey aboard the iconic Christchurch Tramway, glide along the tranquil Avon River in a traditional punt amidst natural splendor, and ascend to the Christchurch Gondola for a breathtaking panoramic vista of the city. -
It's time to bid farewell to New Zealand after an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to catch a flight back to Australia. Arrive in Australia and end your trip.
This World School Camp is brought to you in partnership between Dream Big Travels & Exoticca.
