For over 50 years, MoaTrek has specialised exclusively in New Zealand small group tours. As a 100% New Zealand owned and operated company, we focus on delivering relaxed, authentic journeys designed to showcase the very best of our country.
With a maximum of 18 travellers per departure, our tours combine comfort, flexibility, local insight and genuine camaraderie. If you are considering a guided tour of New Zealand, here is what sets MoaTrek apart.
What Makes Our New Zealand Small Group Tours Different?
- Maximum of 18 travellers per tour
- 100% New Zealand owned and operated
- Operating since 1971
- Multiple Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner – 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2020
- Expert Kiwi Guides
- Purpose-built coaches
- Exclusive access to private homes and remote locations
We do not operate tours anywhere else in the world. Our sole focus is New Zealand, and that depth of experience shows in every detail of our tours.
100% New Zealand Owned and Operated
MoaTrek is a New Zealand owned and operated company. Our team lives here, our guides are locals, and our long-standing relationships with hosts and communities have been built over decades.
Unlike some tour companies that are part of global travel corporations, we focus exclusively on New Zealand. We know the roads, the regions, the seasons and the hidden gems that larger international operators often miss.
When you travel with MoaTrek, you are travelling with New Zealanders who are proud to share their home.
Over 50 Years of Small Group Touring Experience
MoaTrek has been operating small group tours in New Zealand since 1971.
Over five decades, we have refined our itineraries, developed trusted local partnerships and continuously improved the experience. Thousands of travellers from all over the world have toured with us.
Other New Zealand small group tour operators cannot match this level of experience and consistency.
Trusted and Recognised for Excellence
Travellers consistently rate MoaTrek among the top small group tour operators in New Zealand.
- Multiple Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner
- Consistently high traveller ratings
- Hundreds of positive, independent reviews
For many of our travellers, booking a guided tour is a significant decision. Our reputation, longevity and independent reviews provide reassurance that you are travelling with a trusted operator. View latest reviews here.
Kathy’s Story
Kathy from Western Australia explains why travelling with MoaTrek became her favourite trip ever.
Small Group Tour vs Large Coach Tour
Large coach tours in New Zealand often travel with 40 or more passengers. While they operate efficiently, their size limits flexibility.
Large Coach Tours
- Larger passenger numbers
- Fixed daily schedules
- Limited access to remote or private venues
- Less personal interaction with your guide
MoaTrek Small Group Tours
- Maximum 18 travellers
- Flexible daily pacing
- Access to unique local experiences
- Personal attention from your Kiwi Guide
Read more about the differences between a big and small group New Zealand tour.
Small Group Tour vs Self-Drive in New Zealand
Some travellers consider self-drive travel. While it offers independence, New Zealand’s distances and road conditions can make driving more demanding than expected.
Self-Drive Considerations
- Long driving days
- Navigating unfamiliar roads
- Coordinating multiple accommodations and activities
- Missing local insight and hidden experiences
- Hours of research to find and book transport, accommodation and activities
- Missing the stunning scenery while you drive
The MoaTrek Advantage
- No driving fatigue
- Seamless logistics – we’ve planned and booked everything in advance
- Carefully curated accommodation
- Insider knowledge from our expert Kiwi Guide
Our travellers often tell us that travelling with MoaTrek allows them to relax and focus entirely on enjoying New Zealand.
Personal Attention from Your MoaTrek Kiwi Guide
Your Kiwi Guide plays a central role in your experience.
All MoaTrek guides are experienced and professional, and are passionate about sharing their country. They bring to life our history, culture, landscapes, flora and fauna with warmth and humour.
With a maximum of 18 travellers, your guide has time to get to know you and ensure everyone feels included and cared for throughout the journey.
Comfortable, Purpose-Built Small Coaches
We own and operate our own fleet of purpose-built coaches designed specifically for small group touring in New Zealand.
Our coaches include:
- Spacious reclining seats
- Large panoramic windows
- Full standing headroom
- Climate control
- Ample luggage storage
Being in a smaller coach means visiting places that are a little out of the way is nice and easy.
Authentic Local Encounters
Some of the most memorable moments on our New Zealand small group tours come from meeting local hosts.
Here’s just a sample of these experiences:
- Cruise Lake Rotoiti with Matt and his team
- Share stories with local families in Lake Tarawera
- Enjoy a hosted country lunch in Canterbury
- Visit remote locations such as Roberton Island
These are not standard tourist stops. Simply put, having less people on tour opens the doors to the real New Zealand.
Who Are MoaTrek Small Group Tours Ideal For?
Our New Zealand small group tours are particularly suited to:
- Travellers aged 50 and over
- Couples, friends and solo travellers
- Travellers who prefer relaxed pacing
- Visitors seeking authentic local experiences
- Travellers who enjoy sharing experiences with like-minded people
With a small group, you will quickly form connections while still enjoying personal space and comfort.
The Best Way to Discover New Zealand
We believe small group travel is the best way to experience New Zealand.
It combines the ease of a fully guided tour with the intimacy and flexibility of independent travel. It removes the stress of driving while preserving the freedom to enjoy each destination at a comfortable pace.
As a 100% New Zealand owned and operated company, and with over 50 years of experience, MoaTrek is proud to specialise exclusively in New Zealand small group tours.
Explore our tours here or download our latest brochure here.
Enjoy great company and lots of laughs
Touring New Zealand with a small group of like-minded people from all over the world makes for plenty of good times and new friendships.
When you’re travelling in a group of 18 or less, you’re bound to meet people with whom you have lots in common, and yet still find it possible to mix and mingle with everybody during meal times.
Activities like walking at Aoraki Mt Cook, wine tasting in Marlborough and cruising on Milford Sound are so much more fun and memorable when you’re sharing the moment with new friends.
