10 Day New Zealand Highlights Express Tour 

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Auckland International Airport to your accommodation with time to get a feel for Auckland.

AUCKLAND / TĀMAKI MAKAURAU – an exciting, sporting and cultural city, sprawled on a narrow isthmus, between two harbours. The Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, are a main feature of the city, along with numerous volcanic cones such as Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island. The city’s many beaches, marinas and parks, make it ideal for outdoor pursuits such as yachting, rugby, cricket or a day at the beach. The Auckland metropolitan area is New Zealand’s biggest city, and the population mix of European, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

This morning, Bush and Beach will collect you for your Best of Both Worlds tour. This tour offers a fantastic blend of urban and natural beauty. In the morning, you’ll see Auckland’s key landmarks, including the Harbour Bridge and volcanic cones, with an experienced local guide. The afternoon takes you into the tranquil Waitakere Ranges rainforest for a guided walk among giant tree ferns, followed by a visit to the powerful black sand beaches of the west coast, such as Piha Beach.

Today, you’ll embark on a small-group Bush and Beach Ltd tour from Auckland to Rotorua, combining a scenic journey with a magical visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato region, where rolling green hills evoke the charm of the Shire, as your guide shares local insights and behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings film series and The Hobbit film series. At Hobbiton, explore the world’s largest preserved “green set,” wander past 44 hobbit holes, the Mill, the double-arch bridge, and the iconic Party Tree, and step inside a Hobbit home to experience its remarkable detail. Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Party Marquee and a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn before continuing on to Rotorua, arriving mid-afternoon with drop-off at your Rotorua accommodations.

ROTORUA – located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Māori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Māori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

This morning you’ll be collected by Elite Adventures for a Eco Thermal Park Half Day Tour. This small-group tour is a fantastic way to explore Rotorua’s unique volcanic environment. Your expert local guide will pick you up and take you to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland to see the Lady Knox Geyser eruption. You’ll also visit the impressive Waimangu Volcanic Valley, with your guide providing insights into the area’s geology and history throughout the journey.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy in Rotorua. Soak in the geothermal wonders, hunt down hidden gems, or simply relax and take it all in. Want something a little different? Have a chat with your consultant for fun, tailored ideas to match your interests.

This evening, Te Puia will pick you up for an Indigenous Evening Experience. This immersive evening is a celebration of Māori culture. The experience begins with a traditional pōwhiri (welcome), followed by a cultural performance of traditional songs and the haka. You’ll then be treated to a delicious hāngī buffet dinner, which is an authentic Māori feast. After dinner, you’ll be taken to the illuminated Pōhutu Geyser for a mesmerizing view under the stars and then returned to your hotel. Note: regular tour – not small group.

This morning you will be transferred to Rotorua Airport by private vehicle for your Air New Zealand flight to Christchurch New Zealand’s “Garden City”. At the airport you will be collected by private transfer and head for your hotel.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy in Christchurch. Stroll through the city’s stunning gardens, wander along the riverside, and explore the lively Riverside Market. Want something a little different? Chat with your consultant for fun, tailored ideas to match your interests.

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI – Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures.

Today, your adventure begins with a convenient pick up from your Christchurch hotel as you travel with Canterbury Trails toward Arthur’s Pass, boarding the TranzAlpine Train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. The train winds across the expansive Canterbury Plains, through dramatic river gorges, and climbs into the majestic Southern Alps, where the open-air viewing carriage offers breathtaking panoramic views. Upon arrival, your expert guide leads you on short nature walks tailored to your group’s interests and abilities, exploring lush native forests, crystal-clear rivers, and stunning alpine vistas while sharing insights into the region’s unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. After a morning of discovery, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a charming local café, savouring regional flavours and reflecting on your experiences. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic road journey back to Christchurch along a different route, stopping at picturesque viewpoints to capture memorable photos, and conclude the day with a delightful afternoon tea before returning to your hotel.

Today, enjoy a full-day scenic transfer from Christchurch to Queenstown, hosted by your friendly Cheeky Kiwi driver-guide and travel through some of the most spectacular scenery in the South Island. Journey across the Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue through Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, pausing at Lake Pukaki and Mt Cook Village for short walks, the visitor centre, or an optional scenic flight over the Tasman Glacier. Stop at High Country Salmon to feed the fish and sample fresh salmon, then cross Lindis Pass with its sweeping alpine valleys. Near Cromwell, enjoy seasonal fruit and real fruit ice cream before driving through Kawarau Gorge, spotting the iconic suspension bridge and Roaring Meg Lookout. Arrive in Queenstown, where your guide drops you at your central accommodation, concluding your scenic journey.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA – is the South Island’s most popular resort, set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. The town is renowned for its jet boating, bungy-jumping, skiing and awe-inspiring scenery. Local story has it, that the gold prospectors of the 19th century pronounced the town as “fit for any Queen”, and so she was called Queenstown.

Today spend the day on a Dart River Wilderness Jet. This tour is an exhilarating adventure that combines speed with breathtaking scenery. You’ll travel at high speeds on a powerful jet boat, navigating through the braided river system of the Dart River. Your guide will provide entertaining commentary and share insights into the area’s history, geology, and connection to “The Lord of the Rings” films.

You’ll spend a free day in the adventure capital of New Zealand! Whether it’s adrenalin, wine, food, golf or action you want it’s all here today for you. There is so much to do in and around Queenstown that you are spoilt for choice. Choose from one of our suggested optional tours, take it easy and enjoy the town or talk to your consultant about the myriads of fun on offer in this extraordinary destination.

Or for something truly unforgettable, consider an optional day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders, where dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and stunning scenery create a once in a lifetime experience.

Depending on your flight time, you could spend a few extra hours in Queenstown or squeeze in one last activity! Collected from your hotel and head to Queenstown Airport by private transfer. Safe travels!