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
- Highlights of New Zealand
- Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days
- Southern Spotlight (2025/2026, Best Buys)
- New Zealand Explorer
- Southern Wonders (2025/2026, Best Buys)
- New Zealand Vista (2025/2026, Best Buys)
- New Zealand Marvel (2025/2026, Best Buys)
- New Zealand: Sweet As South (Eastbound)
- New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound)
- New Zealand Magic (2025/2026, Best Buys)
Highlights of New Zealand
42 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Good tour group, great scenery.”
Ian, traveled in October
Duration 15 days Destinations Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator G Adventures December departure dates
See All Departure Dates11 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left 18 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left From
- NZ$6,459
Duration 7 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Hahei, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro, Waitomo, Raglan Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator On The Go Tours December departure dates
See All Departure Dates6 Dec, 2025 4 spaces left 13 Dec, 2025 4 spaces left From
- NZ$3,085
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Omarama, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator AAT Kings December departure dates
See All Departure Dates7 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left 14 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left From $5,570
15% Off- NZ$4,735You save $835
New Zealand Explorer
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The group setting was fun and a nice bonding expensive of people from around the world.”
Lindale, traveled in August
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
15% Off- NZ$3,946+$592 upfront costs
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin, Omarama Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator AAT Kings December departure dates
See All Departure Dates8 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left 29 Dec, 2025 7 spaces left From $5,570
15% Off- NZ$4,735You save $835
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Picton, Christchurch, Omarama, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator AAT Kings December departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Dec, 2025 9 spaces left 9 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left From $8,380
15% Off- NZ$7,123You save $1,257
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin, Omarama, Oamaru, Picton, Wellington, RotoruaSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator AAT Kings December departure dates
See All Departure Dates8 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left 29 Dec, 2025 7 spaces left From $8,380
15% Off- NZ$7,123You save $1,257
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Ohau, Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Manapouri, Arrowtown, Queenstown, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range up to 35 year olds Operator Contiki December departure dates
See All Departure Dates7 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left 15 Dec, 2025 7 spaces left From $2,455
20% Off- NZ$1,964You save $491
New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound)
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Get more money for activities you will not regret.”
Jinyoung, traveled in January
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Haast, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, ManapouriSee all destinations Age Range up to 35 year olds Operator Contiki December departure dates
See All Departure Dates13 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left 29 Dec, 2025 7 spaces left From $2,499
19% Off- NZ$2,028You save $471
Duration 17 days Destinations Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin, Omarama, Picton, Wellington, Rotorua, AucklandSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator AAT Kings December departure dates
29 Dec, 2025 7 spaces left From $9,845
15% Off- NZ$8,368You save $1,477
What people love about New Zealand Tours in December
- Highlights of New Zealand
I really liked the tour especially our guide, Robyn. I was prepared for the long distances we spent driving but the van was so uncomfortable! I’m 5 ft 7in & maybe 10 lbs overweight & I could not get comfortable. My knees were bruised from pressing up against the plastic back of the seat in front of me, not nearly enough legroom. Also the seat belt fastener pressed into my hip at all times making it uncomfortable to wear the seatbelt. The only thing that made me feel better is knowing G Adventures makes charitable donations & hopefully the money to buy a decent van went to charity instead.
This was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! Robbie was an excellent guide, creating an memorable experience for everyone. I felt like I really experienced many of the highlights of New Zealand - seeing beautiful places & trying adventurous activities. It was also fun to bong with my tour group!
New Zealand Explorer
I had the best time cruising South Island with Wild Kiwi. In addition to the perfect route, the bus was complete luxury, with USB ports, unlimited wifi, and awesome tunes to relax with while taking in the scenery. Our guide Mark made the trip that extra bit awesome, pure Kiwi at heart showing us around NZ. He was always happy to pull over for a picturesque spot, shared cool stories along the way and was super laid back, helpful, honest and adventurous. We decided to pay a little bit more for our own room, but in hindsight, this probably wasn't necessary - the rooms would have been fine to share and we became a little family by the end of the trip. Our accommodation was always neat and well located. If you're thinking of exploring NZ, Wild Kiwi is the way to go!!
Southern Voyager
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.