Auckland Explore (Auckland Museum, Buddhist Temple, CBD, Mount Eden, One Tree Hill & Muriwai/Piha/LongBay Beach)

Auckland Museum - Begin this multi-day tour in a relaxed and delightful manner! The tour kicks off with a pickup from your chosen location in Auckland, where the guide will warmly welcome you.

First, the journey takes you to the Auckland War Memorial Museum in Auckland Domain, home to an impressive array of artifacts and exhibits.

Auckland - Next, visit a beautiful Buddhist temple, celebrated for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

After this enriching experience, head to a popular dining complex in the city center for lunch, offering a variety of delicious options in a lively setting.

Later, visit Mount Eden, the highest natural point in Auckland city, a dormant volcano offering panoramic city views. Following this, head to One Tree Hill, a scenic volcanic peak with cultural significance and great views.

Finally, visit one of Auckland’s scenic beaches: Muriwai Beach, famous for its gannet colony; Piha Beach, known for its rugged coastline and black sand; or Long Bay Beach, perfect for a relaxing walk along the shore. In the evening, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to relax and unwind.

Auckland – Hobbiton – Rotorua (Redwoods Treewalk, Eat Street)

Hobbiton Movie Set - Start the second day of the tour with a pickup and a scenic drive to the Hobbiton Movie Set. This enchanting village is nestled in the lush Waikato region, and the movie set is a meticulous recreation of the Shire from J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved books. As you wander through Hobbiton on a fully guided tour, you’ll discover charming hobbit holes, the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and stunning landscapes.

Redwoods Treewalk - Continue the journey to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture. Check into your hotel, and prepare for the famous Redwoods Treewalk — a must-do experience in Rotorua. This walk features swing bridges and platforms, offering stunning views of towering trees and the lush forest floor.

Rotorua - In the evening, enjoy dinner at Eat Street, Rotorua’s vibrant dining precinct, offering a range of delicious cuisine options.

Rotorua Explore (Agrodome & Polynesian Spa OR River Rafting, Geothermally Active Place & Māori Culture Experience)

Rotorua - Welcome the morning with adventure ahead. Based on your appetite for adventure, choose between two unique experiences:

For a relaxed afternoon, opt for the farm experience at Agrodome followed by a private hot pool session at Polynesian Spa. Enjoy a farm show with sheep shearing & a dog show, and tour the 350-acre property to meet and hand-feed animals. Later, unwind in a soothing private hot pool nestled in a serene place.

Alternatively, if you’re seeking thrills, go for Grade 5 river rafting on the Kaituna River, navigating challenging rapids and a 7-meter waterfall, one of the highest commercially rafted waterfalls in the world.

Te Puia - In the late afternoon, prepare for an unforgettable experience at a place known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture. Enjoy a guided walk to witness the power of active geysers, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents. Enjoy a delicious Hangi feast, where your food is cooked in the ground using traditional methods, adding a unique and authentic touch to your dining experience. Later, experience a traditional Māori welcome ceremony, including the powerful haka (war dance), along with engaging cultural performances that showcase the history and traditions of the Māori people.

Rotorua - Hamilton - Northern Explorer Scenic Train Ride - Wellington

Wellington - Arrive in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, in the evening and check into your hotel for a restful and comfortable night.

Wellington-Flight to Christchurch–Christchurch (International Antarctic Centre or Punting on Avon or Christchurch Tram)

Wellington - Wake up to another beautiful day in New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Enjoy some free time in Wellington to explore at your own pace, if you wish. It’s time to say goodbye to the North Island and begin your South Island adventure. After checking out from your hotel, you’ll be picked up and taken to Wellington Airport for your flight to Christchurch.

Christchurch - Upon arrival in Christchurch, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. After settling in and refreshing, choose one of three activities: visit the International Antarctic Centre, go punting on the Avon River, or ride the famous Christchurch Tram.

The International Antarctic Centre offers interactive exhibits, a simulated storm, a ride on an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle, and a penguin encounter.

Punting on the Avon River provides a peaceful glide through the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park.

The Christchurch Tram offers a unique perspective on Christchurch’s history and landmarks, with knowledgeable drivers providing commentary and stops at key attractions.

Due to travel between the North and South Islands, and the need to rest for the next leg of your journey, it is recommended you enjoy the rest of your day in Christchurch, relaxing and recharging for the epic South Island journey that begins the next day.

Christchurch - Kaikōura or Akaroa (Whale Watching/Kayaking/Nature Cruise & Alpaca Farm) - Christchurch

Christchurch - Start this beautiful day by being picked up from your hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Kaikoura or Akaroa, each offering a unique experience based on your preferred activities.

Kaikoura - Kaikōura, famed for its stunning coastal scenery where rugged mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, lies near a unique underwater canyon system that draws abundant marine life, including whales. Opt for a guided kayaking adventure alongside seals, sea birds, and possibly dolphins, or a whale-watching cruise to spot majestic sperm whales, humpbacks, or orcas while learning about their habitat.

Akaroa - Akaroa, a charming French-inspired village, invites you to explore its beauty with a 2-hour nature cruise, uncovering its rich history and unique wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphins, the smallest dolphins in the world. Follow this with a visit to a charming alpaca farm for cuddly encounters with these adorable animals.

Christchurch - After your chosen day tour, we’ll return to Christchurch and drop you off at your hotel.

Christchurch–TranzAlpine Scenic Train–Arthur’s Pass National Park–Castle Hill–Lake Tekapo-Stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve

TranzAlpine Train - Start your day by being picked up from your accommodation in Christchurch. Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Railway Station, where you will be greeted and taken to your next destination.

Otira Viaduct Lookout - Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Arthur’s Pass National Park - Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Castle Hill - Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk. Take a break at Lake Lyndon as we drive towards Lake Tekapo.

Tekapo Stargazing - Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.

Lake Tekapo – Lake Pukaki – Aoraki Mount Cook - Scenic Helicopter Ride – Lindis Pass – Queenstown

Lake Tekapo - Get ready for today’s journey with a pickup from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.

Lake Pukaki - Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

Aoraki/Mt. Cook - The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Opt for the Hooker Valley Track, featuring famous swing bridges. Alternatively, choose the Tasman Glacier Walks for a different perspective. Look out for the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.

Mount Cook Airport - It’s time to embark on a scenic helicopter ride. Soar above the stunning valleys and peaks of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park in one of the modern helicopters. Experience breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the surrounding snow-capped ranges as you fly. Relax and enjoy this unique experience with onboard commentary from the pilot.

Queenstown Explore (Queenstown Gardens, Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Wharf, Jet Boating & Skyline Gondola with Luge Rides)

Queenstown - Begin your day with new energy in Queenstown with a pickup from your hotel. Visit the famous Queenstown Gardens, located on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views. After exploring the gardens, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of central Queenstown to experience the city’s cheerful vibes. Relax by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s longest lake. After this moment of calmness, prepare yourself to experience the power of twin V8 engines as you jet boat down the Kawarau or Shotover River. Reaching speeds of up to 95 kmph, enjoy the adrenaline rush with multiple 360-degree spins.

Skyline Queenstown - After jet boating, there’s more to enjoy. Take a ride on the Queenstown Gondola, which is believed to be the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Walter and Cecil Peak, and, of course, Queenstown itself. Spend quality time at the top exploring the area, or engaging in fun activities like thrilling luge rides and open-air chairlifts. Watch the sunset from this vantage point. Afterwards, take a return ride on the Gondola back down, where you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel to relax and recharge for another epic day, exploring Fiordland National Park.

Queenstown - Milford Sound Cruise or Doubtful Sound Cruise - Te Anau

Queenstown - Start this unforgettable day with a pickup from your Queenstown hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, both located in Fiordland National Park, each showcasing the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s fiords in their own distinct way.

Milford Sound - Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic stops and nature walks along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home.

Doubtful Sound / Patea - Begin your journey with a peaceful cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a scenic coach ride over Wilmot Pass, offering spectacular views of untouched rainforest and alpine scenery. Upon arrival at Doubtful Sound, board a cruise to explore the vast, remote fiord known for its deep stillness and dramatic landscapes. Surrounded by towering peaks, hidden waterfalls, and native wildlife, the experience feels truly immersive and untouched.

Te Anau - Enjoy the drive back to Te Anau and end the day filled with beautiful memories as you check into your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Te Anau - Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Invercargill - Bill Richardson Transport World - Bluff

Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Set off on another day of discovery in Te Anau with a pickup from your hotel. Prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country’s caves. They create a mesmerizing display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience.

Invercargill - Leave Te Anau at noon and head south along the Southern Scenic Route, a peaceful drive through rolling farmland, forested areas, and occasional coastal landscapes. Enjoy the changing views as you travel toward Invercargill, the southern hub of Southland. Stop here to explore Bill Richardson Transport World—an impressive and unique attraction showcasing one of the largest private transport museums in the world, featuring classic trucks and cars.

Bluff - Ferry - Stewart Island - Scenic Flight - Bluff - Queenstown

Stewart Island - Enjoy the scenic one-hour ferry ride across Foveaux Strait, often accompanied by seabird sightings and fresh ocean air. After reaching Stewart Island, begin with a short cruise through Paterson Inlet, where you’ll hear fascinating cultural and historical stories about the area. You’ll then arrive at Ulva Island, a predator-free nature sanctuary with no permanent human settlement, allowing native wildlife and forest to thrive. During your guided walk, you’ll explore peaceful forest tracks and learn about the island’s rich biodiversity. Your guide will help you spot native birds such as the South Island robin, saddleback, tūī, and others. Seeing a wild kiwi is possible, but it depends on luck, as they are shy. After your Ulva Island experience, return to Oban and take a scenic flight back to Bluff. This day trip lets you enjoy the best of both worlds—sailing to Stewart Island by ferry and flying back with stunning aerial views over Foveaux Strait.

Queenstown - Enjoy the drive back to Queenstown, passing through the quiet Southland landscape as the day winds down. It’s time to say goodbye as we drop you off at your preferred location in Queenstown. May these memories stay with you forever.

• Guide-driver exclusively for your group
• Private transportation
• Standard Economy Transfer Flight Ticket from Wellington to Christchurch
• On-board WiFi
• Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
• Packaged water bottles
• Packaged snacks & chocolates
• If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are provided
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): International Antarctic Centre OR Punting OR Heritage Tram Ticket
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket at Auckland
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Bill Richardson Transport World Ticket at Invercargill
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Redwoods Treewalk Ticket at Rotorua
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): One-way Scenic Flight Ticket from Stewart Island to Bluff
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Hobbiton Movie Set Tour Ticket
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Cruise Ticket at Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Geothermal Valley, Māori Cultural Experience & Dinner at Rotorua
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): TranzAlpine Train Scenic Ticket from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Stargazing Activity Ticket at Lake Tekapo
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Gondola with luge rides & Thrill Jet Boating Ticket at Queenstown
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Guided Kayaking or Whale Watching Cruise Ticket at Kaikōura
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Guided Exploration Ticket in Stewart Island
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Alpaca Farm Tour & Nature Cruise Ticket at Akaroa
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Northern Explorer Scenic Train Ticket from Hamilton to Wellington
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Glowworm Caves Tour Ticket at Te Anau
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): Agrodome & Private Hot Pool OR River Rafting Ticket at Rotorua
• Optional (‘With Tickets’ Option): One-way Ferry Ticket from Bluff to Stewart Island
• Optional (‘With Hotels’ Option): Accommodation for 11 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels with breakfast

• Food & Drinks (except 11 x breakfast with “With Hotels” option)
• Travel Insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

This exceptional 12-day, 11-night tour provides an ideal combination of daily travel, covering most of the top attractions in both the North Island (from Auckland to Wellington) and the South Island (from Kaikōura to Stewart Island). It includes a transfer flight, along with optional, carefully selected activities and luxury accommodations, ensuring the best itinerary for your limited time in New Zealand without the stress of planning, coordinating numerous details, or driving long distances on your own. The itinerary is designed to highlight the beauty of New Zealand in an ultimate style for a truly memorable trip.

In addition to visiting many of New Zealand’s top attractions, enjoy the flexibility to select your own preferred activities or choose from a curated selection of 19–21 optional activities, ensuring a comprehensive and diverse experience. Relish the luxury of a private tour, complete with a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for you throughout the journey. Begin in Auckland and conclude in Queenstown, both cities featuring international airports.

• Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
• Following your booking, the operator will get in touch to confirm your preferences, as applicable
• With the “With Tickets” option, traveler(s) may swap any of the included activities for alternatives of interest such as Skydiving, Wine Tasting, Golf, Horse Trekking, Scenic Flights, Swimming with Dolphins, Glacier hiking, Relaxing Spa Treatments, Ziplining, etc., subject to availability, cost differences, and route or schedule feasibility

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.