10 Day Snapshot of New Zealand Tour 

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Auckland International Airport to your hotel.

AUCKLAND / TAMAKI 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, Maori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

One of our customers favourite ways to experience Auckland is with Bush and Beach on their Best of Both Worlds Tour and that’s what’s in store for you today. 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.

This morning you will pick up your Compact SUV Budget rental car and head south from Auckland, traveling through the lush, green hills of the Waikato region. You’ll pass plenty of farms, it’s the heart of dairy country! As you get closer to Rotorua, you’ll start to notice the unique, sulphur-rich air. It’s the city’s signature scent and a sign that you’ve arrived in a place full of bubbling mud pools and incredible Māori culture.

On route you can choose to detour and take one of our optional tours at the Waitomo Caves or Hobbiton!

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 Maori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Maori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

This evening you will visit Te Puia and take part in their Te Po combo Tour (Guided experience + Indigenous Evening). This is a perfect way to experience Māori culture and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. The tour begins with a guided walk, where you’ll see the famous Pōhutu Geyser at dusk. You’ll then be welcomed into the Marae (meeting house) with a pōwhiri (traditional welcome), followed by a cultural performance and a delicious hāngī feast. The experience concludes with a hot chocolate at the geyser under the stars.

This morning you’ll visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and take their Self Guided Walk. Explore this magnificent geothermal valley at your own pace. You will walk on well-maintained paths past colorful hot springs, steaming volcanic craters, and bubbling mud pools. The tour includes views of the famous Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake, and you can choose to take a bus back to the visitor center or continue to a boat tour on Lake Rotomahana.

Then it’s time to drop off your car this afternoon at Rotorua airport and then travel from Rotorua to Christchurch via Air New Zealand. This is a great option for those who want to quickly travel between the two islands and save time and your flight is included.

Once in Christchurch you’ll pick up a new car in Christchurch Airport and head to your accommodation.

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.

This is a must-do journey. You’ll leave the Canterbury Plains behind and head inland. The landscape changes dramatically as you get closer to the Southern Alps, and suddenly you’ll see the brilliant, milky-blue waters of Lake Tekapo. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially with the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd on its shores.

LAKE TEKAPO/TAKAPŌ – located in the Mackenzie country, with fantastic views of the surrounding Alps. The Lake’s unusual turquoise colour is given by fine rock-flour, which is dust ground by glacial movement and held in suspension by the Lake’s waters. The Lake is also well known for its brown and rainbow trout.

This is a comprehensive road trip that takes you from the beautiful Mackenzie Country and all the way to Fiordland National Park. You’ll travel through the high country of Central Otago before heading into rural Southland and arriving at the gateway to Fiordland, Te Anau.

TE ANAU – the focal point of the Fiordland National Park, the country’s most rugged and remote. Lake Te Anau sprawls at the feet of high rugged mountains with its South, Middle and North fiords probing into the ranges. The Lake, New Zealand’s second largest, is 417 metres deep.

This is a classic and highly-rated New Zealand journey that connects three of the South Island’s most famous destinations into one unforgettable experience. The day begins in the peaceful lakeside town of Te Anau as you travel along the world-renowned Milford Road. The drive is a destination in itself, with countless stunning photo opportunities at places like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm. After your cruise, you’ll journey through the rugged wilderness, past ancient beech forests and vast mountain ranges, as you travel to the vibrant alpine resort town of Queenstown. This epic journey showcases the remarkable, diverse, and untamed beauty of New Zealand’s South Island.

Once in Milford you will join the wonderful team at Cruise Milford for their Milford Sound – Cruise. This is a perfect option for those who have already made their way to Milford Sound. The cruise travels the full length of the fiord, with a knowledgeable skipper providing commentary on the area’s natural history. You will get close enough to feel the spray of a waterfall and have the chance to see seals, dolphins, and penguins.

This evening you’ll arrive in Queenstown.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA – 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.

A fun day is ahead today when you join Altitude Tours Queenstown for their Best of Queenstown Tour. This tour is a great way to get a feel for Queenstown’s stunning landscape and history. Your guide will take you to scenic spots like Coronet Peak for panoramic views. You will also visit the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and the famous Kawarau Suspension Bridge, home of the world’s first commercial bungy jump.

A day to enjoy the many activities Queenstown has to offer. Choose from one of our popular optional tours below or talk to your consultant about our many tours on offer.

Head to Queenstown Airport and return your rental car. Sadly, leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and hopefully plan your next trip down to see us.