From the lush verdant Bay of Islands to the stark iciness of the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers; the stunning scenic beauty and the fjord-like scenery of Milford Sound to the bubbling geothermal pools in Rotorua; the historical and cultural magic of the traditional Hangi Feast to modern holiday atmosphere of Queenstown, this tour showcases the very best of New Zealand’s landscapes and culture and includes all the highlights at a relaxed pace.
Be met on arrival into Auckland and transferred to your centrally located hotel.
Journey north today and see a mighty Kauri tree and marvel at its size at the Matakohe Kauri Museum. Afterwards continue to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a special Welcome Dinner this evening.
The Bay of Islands is also home to 144 islands providing a stunning aquatic playground off the north coast of the North Island. After breakfast today, you’ll enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the idyllic subtropical surrounds.
Explore New Zealand’s finest maritime park on a cruise to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. This captivating coastline provides sheltered waters for dolphins, whales, seals, penguins and other marine life, so keep a look out while enjoying the scenery.
Leaving Auckland after breakfast travel to Waitomo, caves. World-renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves’ historical and geological significance. Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveller. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 120 years of cultural and natural history. Continue to the geothermal capital of New Zealand, Rotorua. Visit Te Puia - New Zealand’s premier cultural centre - and enjoy a guided tour of the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Maori culture and rich heritage. The city is positioned on The Pacific Rim of Fire, and is therefore one of the world’s most active geothermal areas.
Farewell Rotorua and enjoy the scenery as you travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Lake Taupo - the largest freshwater lake in Australasia - and thundering Huka Falls. Continue south across the vast volcanic plateau of World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park to Wellington.
This morning take in a city sights tour which includes Te Papa Tongarewa. Afterwards, admire coastlines defined by tiny coves on the way to Blenheim as you travel on the Interislander ferry; one of the world’s most scenic voyages through the Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds.
This morning, head to Kaikoura. Delight in the chance to embark on a whale watching cruise, where you may catch a glimpse of the arc of a tail, or a spouting fountain from a blowhole. Here is one of the few areas on Earth where sperm whales can be sighted all year round thanks to the deep Kaikoura Canyon that runs along the coast.
Absorb the rural scenery from aboard your coach before beginning the ascent into the Main Divide. Then, sit back and enjoy the vistas as you journey through the Southern Alps to Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This evening, enjoy dinner.
Journey through spectacular Haast Pass, skirting the tranquil shores of lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the alpine resort of Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Delicious food is always on the menu in Queenstown as it is renowned for its world-class food scene and nightlife.
With the entire day to spend as you please, you have the freedom to simply relax or pursue your interests and choose one of our exciting select experiences. Perhaps step aboard the TSS Earnslaw steamship for a cruise to Walter Peak Station, or take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views over Queenstown.
Enter Fiordland National Park along the Milford Road, then board a boat and cruise the full length of Milford Sound, a magnificent fiord with views of cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest, sheer cliffs and surrounding mountains.
Today, journey through rolling Southland countryside before arriving in Dunedin. Enjoy a guided tour then head to the nearby hills to take an intriguing tour of Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Steeped in scandal and tragedy, it is filled with magnificent antiques and offers breathtaking views.
Leave the spectacular snow-capped peaks behind and travel to picturesque Lake Tekapo. On the shores of the lake you’ll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district, and it’s a popular photo spot for visitors, so popular in fact, that it is one of the most photographed places in New Zealand!
Pay a visit to the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd before travelling to Christchurch before transferring to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don't include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment's notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.
