Home
Fan wall
Content
FB Group
Sign up

TOUR SAA - SAMPLE ITINERARY

18 Nights - Visiting Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch *

 / Three Tests & Invitational XV

From
£4,203.33pp

Day 1

Your Lions adventure begins

Your Lions adventure will start once you’ve landed in Auckland. 

But don’t worry you won’t be hitting the road straight away – you will spend you first night at one of our selected hotels where you will spend your first night before picking up your motorhome and beginning your road trip.  

Day 2

Collect your motorhome

This is where your Lions Women’s Tour really begins. New Zealand is a land of breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences, and now is your chance to explore it your way. Freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to make your holiday truly your own.

Day 3

FIRST TEST MATCH DAY

Today is all about rugby. Make your way to GO Media Stadium and experience the electric atmosphere as The British & Irish Lions Women take on New Zealand’s Black Ferns in the First Test of the series. With two of the world’s leading sides going head-to-head, witness every moment of this historic occasion as the Lions begin their quest for Test series success.

Day 4

EXPLORE AUCKLAND AT LEISURE

Wake up to another day in Auckland and enjoy the freedom that comes with travelling by motorhome. Whether you choose to follow the stunning coastline, discover charming seaside suburbs, or venture into the rolling countryside surrounding the city, today is yours to explore at your own pace. From volcanic viewpoints and beautiful beaches to local markets and waterfront dining, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time in New Zealand’s largest city.

Day 5

AUCKLAND TO HAMILTON

1 hr 45 min

This morning, continue your motorhome adventure south to Hamilton, with the journey through the heart of the Waikato region taking approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Passing rolling green farmland and some of New Zealand’s most picturesque countryside, it’s an enjoyable drive steeped in rugby heritage.

Day 6

PROVINCIAL MATCH DAY

Another exciting day of rugby awaits. Make your way to FMG Stadium Waikato as The British & Irish Lions Women take on the Invitational XV in what promises to be a fiercely contested provincial fixture. Soak up the matchday atmosphere alongside passionate local supporters and enjoy another opportunity to watch the Lions Women in action as they continue their preparations for the Test series against the Black Ferns.

Day 7

EXPLORE HAMILTON

With no rugby on the agenda today, enjoy a relaxed day exploring Hamilton and the wider Waikato region at your own pace. Travelling by motorhome gives you the freedom to uncover hidden gems, from the beautiful Waikato River trails and bustling café scene to the world-renowned Hobbiton Movie Set or the stunning landscapes of the Waitomo area. Whether you prefer scenic drives, local food and wine, or simply taking in New Zealand’s countryside, today is yours to enjoy.

Day 8

explore more of the waikato

Enjoy another day in Hamilton and take advantage of the freedom your motorhome provides. You might choose to delve deeper into the scenic Waikato region, visit the spectacular Waitomo Glowworm Caves, sample local food and wine, or simply spend the day relaxing by the banks of the Waikato River.

Day 9

Hamilton to wellington

6 hr 30 min

Today it’s time to continue your journey south, driving from Hamilton to Wellington through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. The route takes approximately 6½ to 7 hours, passing rolling farmland, volcanic landscapes and charming rural towns along the way. With the freedom of your motorhome, you can stop whenever something catches your eye before arriving in New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Settle in for the evening and start exploring Wellington’s renowned waterfront, cafés and cultural attractions ahead of the next stage of your Lions adventure.

Day 10

Second test match day

The excitement builds once again as The British & Irish Lions Women face the Black Ferns in the Second Test at Sky Stadium. Make your way to the heart of Wellington and soak up the unique matchday atmosphere as supporters from both nations come together for another thrilling chapter in this historic series. With the Test series potentially on the line, expect a memorable occasion packed with passion, intensity and world-class rugby.

Day 11

Explore wellington

Enjoy a full day discovering New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Wander the picturesque waterfront, browse independent boutiques and cafés, or take the iconic Wellington Cable Car for sweeping views across the city and harbour. From fascinating museums and galleries to scenic coastal drives and hidden viewpoints, Wellington offers plenty to explore before your South Island adventure begins.

Day 12

wellington to picton

3 hr 30 min

Today, begin your journey to the South Island. Board the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton, a crossing of approximately 3.5 hours through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds. Once ashore, spend the afternoon exploring Picton’s charming waterfront, scenic walking trails and relaxed maritime atmosphere.

 

Day 13

explore marlborough

With your motorhome and a full day to enjoy, discover the renowned Marlborough region at your own pace. Famous for its world-class wineries, beautiful coastline and sun-soaked scenery, it’s the perfect place to slow down and experience another side of New Zealand.

 

Day 14

PICTON TO Kaikōura

2 hr 30 min

Continue south along one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal routes. The drive to Kaikōura takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with dramatic Pacific Ocean views accompanying much of the journey. Upon arrival, explore this beautiful seaside town, renowned for its abundant marine wildlife and spectacular coastal scenery.

 

Day 15

kaikōura to Hanmer springs

2 hrs

Leave the coast behind and head inland to the alpine resort town of Hanmer Springs, a journey of approximately 2 hours. Surrounded by mountains and forests, Hanmer Springs is famous for its natural thermal pools, boutique shops and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal stop on your journey south.

 

Day 16

Hammer springs to christchurch

1 hr 45 min

This morning, complete the final leg of your journey to Christchurch. The drive takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, passing through the rolling countryside of Canterbury. Arrive in Christchurch with time to explore the city’s leafy parks, innovative architecture and vibrant dining scene before the next chapter of your Lions adventure begins.

 

Day 17

third test match day

Today marks the final chapter of a truly historic series as The British & Irish Lions Women take on the Black Ferns in the Third Test at One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch. Be part of the atmosphere as supporters from across New Zealand, Britain and Ireland gather for what promises to be a memorable occasion. As the concluding match of the inaugural British & Irish Lions Women’s Tour, this is your chance to witness a landmark moment in rugby history.

 

Day 18

explore christchurch

After the excitement of the Test series finale, enjoy a day discovering Christchurch at your own pace. Often referred to as New Zealand’s ‘Garden City’, Christchurch blends beautiful green spaces with a vibrant, modern atmosphere. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens, explore the revitalised city centre, enjoy a punt along the Avon River, or venture further afield to the picturesque Banks Peninsula. With the freedom of your motorhome, today is the perfect opportunity to experience the South Island’s largest city your way.

 

Day 19

drop off your motorhome

The sun may be setting on your New Zealand adventure, but what a journey it has been. From unforgettable Test matches and breathtaking landscapes to the historic inaugural British & Irish Lions Women’s Tour, you’ve experienced a trip like no other. It’s now time to return your motorhome, but while the Tour may be coming to an end, the memories will stay with you for a lifetime.

 

*Please note: This is a suggested itinerary, suggestions for places to visit or experience may not be included and will be at your own expense and organisation. Please use the book now button to view the Tour ‘s full inclusions.

Day Trip to Adelaide

Wednesday 30 July - Departs 9:30 AM / Returns 17:00 PM

The Barossa is in South Australia, about 70km north-east of Adelaide, the state’s capital city.   Your trip will include a visit of the city centre, The State Library of South Australia and lunch at a local wine bar and kitchen. 

The State Library is the information heart of South Australia, located in the North Terrace Cultural Precinct.  You will have the opportunity to explore all three buildings: the award-winning contemporary Catherine Helen Spence Wing with its iconic glass foyer, the Mortlock Wing with its 19th century Victorian splendour, and the 1861 heritage listed Institute Building.

Sweeping stadium views, stylish bar and lounge, premium menu and extensive wine list.  Bespoke Wine Bar & Kitchen is one of Adelaide’s most impressive dining experiences.

Extending across level three of Oval Hotel and into the iconic Adelaide Oval, Bespoke’s unique setting makes a stunning backdrop lunch.

Executive Chef Daniel Simpson’s modern Australian menu brings bold flavours to life through fresh, seasonal produce.  Two drinks are included, and you may choose from house wine, beer or a soft drink.

After lunch you will be transferred to the North Terrace, Adelaide city where you can choose to spend your time either at Rundle Mall, The Art Gallery of South Australia or South Australian Museum.

 

PLEASE NOTE:  We have been advised that the carpet is being replaced in the Mortlock Chamber (section of the library) and we are now unable to conduct tours through this section during July so we will amend the Private tour of the State Library slightly and now include access to the basement (old & rare artifacts storage) which is an area of the library usually inaccessible to the public. 

 

Private 60 minute tour of State Library of South Australia | 30 July 2025 – 11:00am

Guests will have the opportunity to explore one of South Australia’s great institutions and take a look behind the shelves. An expert librarian will take you on a walk sharing stories of how the State Library began. Your experience starts at the historic Adelaide Circulating Library to learn the history of the building. By 1861, the collection of books held there was to became the first public library in South Australia. The Adelaide Circulating Library has been used in the past as a backdrop to several movies including Shine and Gallipoli. Continue your way to the basement to see some of the interesting old & rare artifacts housed in the library. Discover how the state’s most important treasures are maintained in the state-of-the-art storage and how the preservations team cares for the collection. 

Legends that have joined us on previous experiences