Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand.  On arrival in Auckland please make your own way to your hotel.  The remainder of the day is free to explore this beautiful harbourside city.

This evening at 6.00pm, meet your guide and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

After breakfast enjoy a two hour tour of Auckland.  Visit a variety of Auckland’s known landmarks and neighbourhoods such as Auckland Domaine, Parnell Village, Bastion Point & the Waterfront.

Following your tour commence the journey North to the beautiful Bay of Islands.   A stop along the way to stretch your legs and have some lunch (not included) at Whangharei before continuing to Paihia.

After checking into your hotel the remainder of the day is free to explore this seaside town.

This morning you'll be taken to Paihia Wharf for an exciting day cruise. The cruise includes a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock with a stopover on one of the beautiful islands.

Upon your return, you'll have the opportunity to explore Russel, the first capital of New Zealand, during a guided walking tour led by your knowledgeable guide.

As part of your morning cruise ticket, you'll also receive a free ferry ticket to return to Paihia. From there, you can take a leisurely walk back to your hotel.

This morning, bid farewell to the Bay of Islands as we embark on a journey back to Auckland, passing through the awe-inspiring Waipoua Kauri Forest.  Embark on a stroll to see Tane Mahuta, a majestic living Kauri tree and one of the largest of its kind. Get ready to witness the grandeur of this remarkable natural wonder.

Continue back to Auckland where the remainder of the day is at leisure.

After breakfast, travel south to Rotorua.  We will stop along the way in Hamilton to explore the Hamilton Gardens.   You will have free time to explore this captivating and diverse horticultural paradise. What makes Hamilton Gardens truly special is its thematic garden collections, each representing different civilizations, historical periods, and cultures from around the world. Visitors can explore a variety of beautifully landscaped areas, each carefully designed to transport them to different eras and places in time.

On arrival in Rotorua time at leisure to relax. In the late afternoon you will be transferred to Te Puia Thermal Reserve to experience a Maori Cultural evening at Te Puia with buffet dinner followed by a cultural performance at the beautifully carved meeting house. The evening concludes with a walk to the Thermal Valley where hot chocolate will be served. On completion you will be returned to the hotel by Te Puia.

Following breakfast, get ready for an enriching sightseeing tour of Rotorua and its surrounding areas, with a duration of approximately 5 hours.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit several fascinating locations, including the Government Gardens and the picturesque lakefront. Additionally, you'll pass through the charming Ohinemutu Village, experiencing its unique cultural atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the tour includes admission to Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, located just a short 15-minute drive from central Rotorua. Here, you'll step into a realm where ancient myths and legends come alive, and witness the captivating spectacle of the earth's boiling waters, healing mud, and steam that vanishes into the sky.

Take a self-guided walk (or join a guided tour - additional cost paid locally) through this remarkable geothermal reserve. Along the way, you'll encounter erupting waters, an active mud volcano, fascinating land coral formations, and a hot waterfall. The entire experience typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders of this unique geothermal wonderland.

The remainder of the day is free to relax or why not join an optional activity

This morning travel to Wellington with scenic stops, including Huka Falls. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and Huka Falls' thunderous cascade. Discover New Zealand's beauty on this memorable journey.

On arrival in Wellington, the evening is free to explore the capital's many restaurants.

After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Wellington, which includes a stop at Mt Victoria for stunning views. You'll also drive past iconic landmarks like the Beehive and Parliament, and visit the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral. Included in your tour is a visit to the renowned Te Papa Museum, offering a fascinating insight into New Zealand's culture and history.

Additionally, enjoy a one-way cable car ride and visit the Tramway Museum and Botanical Gardens, immersing yourself in the city's natural beauty and transportation heritage. A guided walking tour of the city centre will provide you with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the city's vibrant character.

The afternoon grants you the freedom to explore Wellington at your own pace or indulge in some retail therapy, discovering the city's charm and attractions as you wish.

This morning, you'll be taken to the ferry terminal for your exciting journey to the South Island. Enjoy a picturesque ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Upon reaching Picton, you will board the Coastal Pacific train. Your luggage will be smoothly transferred to the train by the ferry staff, ensuring a seamless travel experience for you. Relish in the beauty of the Coastal Pacific Train Journey as you traverse from Picton to Christchurch, witnessing some of the South Island's most stunning scenery along the way.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, you'll be warmly welcomed by your South Island driver, who will be ready to transfer you comfortably to your hotel.

Today's journey will take you to the Edenborough of the South, passing through the charming historic Victorian town of Oamaru and the intriguing Moeraki Boulders (subject to tide conditions).

As part of the experience, you'll have the privilege of visiting the Waitaki Museum & Archive. The museum presents captivating narratives about the natural and cultural history of the Waitaki District.

On arrival in Dunedin take a brief orientation tour of the city before checking into your hotel.

Following breakfast, embark on an exciting sightseeing tour of the city. First stop on your tour, visit the Olveston Historic Home. This magnificent residence, nestled in one of New Zealand's Gardens of National Significance, exudes elegance in its Jacobean style architecture. Built in the early 1900s, Olveston boasts grace and grandeur, adorned with exquisite decorative details throughout its 35 rooms.

During a one-hour guided tour of this opulently furnished home, you'll be transported back to the glorious Age of the Edwardians, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle long gone and impossible to recreate. Olveston stands as a remarkable time capsule, preserving the splendour of a bygone era.

Your city tour will also explore key landmarks such as the Railway station, Otago University, the iconic Octagon, and the renowned Baldwin Street, known for being the world's steepest street. 

The remainder of the day is at leisure, though we recommned you continue your touring of Dunedin with one of the following optional tours (these tours operate simultaneously so only one choice may be selected);

In the morning, get ready for a scenic journey to Te Anau, where you'll pass through the picturesque towns of Balclutha and Gore, each offering their unique charm and landscapes. As you travel, be prepared to be mesmerised by the beauty of the countryside and the changing vistas outside your window.

Upon reaching Te Anau, the remainder of the day is free to relax or take an optional tour.

Today offers a highlight of the South Island.  Travel by coach to the Milford sound where you will board your vessel for your 2 hour cruise along the stunning waterways.  A picnic lunch will be provided.  

Milford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder located in Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast of New Zealand's South Island. Often considered one of the most stunning places on Earth, it is a breathtaking fiord characterised by its dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine wilderness.  Milford Sound is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Some of the notable wildlife species in Milford Sound include the Fiordland Crested Penguin, fur seals and dolphins.  

Following your cruise, travel to Queenstown arriving in the late afternoon.

A leisurely start to the day with a free morning to explore Queenstown. Why not take in the incredible views from Bob's Peak via a ride on the Skyline Gondola (not included).

This afternoon join your group for an included visit to quaint Arrowtown.  Located 20 minutes from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming gold miners village.  You will have free time to explore the shops or you may wish to check out the Lake District Museum.  

Return to Queenstown where your evening is free.  We recommend the option of an evening lake cruise and dinner.

Embark on an enchanting journey this morning as you venture towards Franz Josef, nestled in the breathtaking West Coast of New Zealand. As you traverse through this scenic route, you'll have the opportunity to make several stops along the way, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature with invigorating nature walks and capturing picture-perfect moments at scenic photo stops. The journey to Franz Josef is more than just a transportation experience; it's an exploration taking you through some of the most picturesque landscapes that the West Coast has to offer. 

On arrival your afternoon is free to relax or take an optional Helicopter ride.

Begin your morning with a journey to Greymouth, passing through the charming town of Hokitika. Along the way, be captivated by the scenic vistas that unfold before you, showcasing the natural beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.

Upon reaching Greymouth, you'll have some leisure time to indulge in a delightful lunch. For a highly recommended dining experience, we suggest heading to the Speight's Ale House, conveniently located across from the train station. There, you can savour a delectable meal while enjoying the warm hospitality and the rich flavours of locally brewed ales.

After lunch, embark on the Tranz Alpine train journey, commencing your picturesque ride from Greymouth to Christchurch. The Tranz Alpine is renowned for being one of the world's most scenic train rides, taking you through the heart of the Southern Alps and offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and picturesque valleys.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, your driver will be there to meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

This morning enjoy a guided tour of Christchurch.  Sights visited may include Hagley Park & Botanical Gardens, Mona Vale, Avon River area, Cardboard Cathedral, Earthquake Memorial & the Arts Centre.

Afternoon is free to further explore the city at your leisure.  Why not hop on the traditional tram (not included) or pre-book a punt on the beautiful Avon River.

This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow travellers to reminisce about your adventures.

Today your exploration of New Zealand comes to an end.  At the appropriate time please make your way to the airport for your flight home.

We hope the beauty and warm hospitality of New Zealand has inspired you.