14 Day Discover New Zealand Tour 

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

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI – the Garden City, lies on the level plains that initially attracted the closely knit Church of England settlers that settled the area. The largest of the South Island cities, Christchurch retains something of the English nature of its origins – the willow and oak-lined River Avon and clustered mediaeval stone buildings.

Make the most of your free day in the Garden City! Stroll through the gorgeous Botanic Gardens, glide down the Avon River on a punt, or jump on the vintage tram to see the city in style. Ride the gondola for epic views across the mountains and coast, or simply wander the lively laneways packed with street art, markets, and cool cafés – or book an optional tour if you’re keen to explore even more.

Today you will pick up your Compact SUV Budget rental car and begin your trip in Christchurch and head north along the coast. The route hugs the Pacific Ocean, offering incredible views, and it’s a great place to spot seals basking on the rocks right next to the highway. You’ll leave the dramatic coastal scenery behind as you approach the city of Kaikōura, a perfect way to end a coastal adventure.

KAIKOURA/TE TAUMANU O TE WAKA A MAUI – means “to eat crayfish”, from the Maori words “Kai” meaning food, and Koura meaning crayfish. You can savour crayfish here in Kaikoura, view whales and dolphins at play, or visit local galleries and craft shops, or take a walk along the Peninsula Walkway. If you travel out onto the Kaikoura Peninsula and look back towards the mountains, an amazing tableau will appear before you. The seaward Kaikoura Range appears to rise from the sea, with the snow-capped Southern Alps as a backdrop.

This afternoon you will venture out on one of New Zealand’s most iconic tours joining Whale Watch Kaikoura’s famous Whale Watch – Ocean Cabin. This is a fantastic boat tour with a high success rate for spotting whales. You’ll be on a modern catamaran designed for whale watching, with an enclosed cabin and large outdoor decks. Your expert guides will use specialized equipment to locate giant sperm whales, the stars of the show and year-round residents, and you might also see dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds.

This journey that takes you north along the coast, past Blenheim, and through the city of Nelson. You’ll get to see a huge variety of South Island scenery, from the dramatic coast to the inland vineyards of Marlborough and then on to the beautiful golden beaches of the Tasman region.

KAITERITERI – Loved for its beautiful golden sand beach, the sunny town of Kaiteriteri is a launching place for trips into the Abel Tasman National Park. This attractive beach town is 13 kilometres from Motueka and handy to the Abel Tasman National Park. Known for its beautiful golden sand (made of quartz and mica particles) and clear blue-green water, Kaiteriteri has a motor camp, motels, a general store and a choice of places to eat (check out the seafood). Local hikes include Withells Walk and Kaka Pah Point. From Kaiteriteri you can catch a water taxi or tour into the Abel Tasman National Park; you can also hire kayaks or arrange to go seal swimming.

Set out on an unforgettable day in Abel Tasman National Park with Wilson’s Abel Tasman Cruise & Walk. This is a great way to explore Abel Tasman National Park at your own pace. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise past Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony before being dropped off at a beach of your choice. From there, you can embark on a walk of varying lengths through native forests and along golden beaches, with the shuttle picking you up at the end of your day.

This is a scenic journey that takes you across the top of the South Island. You’ll leave Mapua and travel through the lush, green landscapes of the Tasman and Marlborough regions. The route follows the coastline and then heads inland, concluding as you arrive in Picton ready for one of the worlds best ferry rides aboard the Interislander Ferry and across the Cook Strait to Wellington.

BLENHEIM/WAIHARAKEKE – the “Sunshine Capital” of New Zealand is situated on the Wairau Plain near the top of the South Island. Blenheim’s combination of high sunshine hours, a long ripening period, and free-draining river flats have put the district’s vineyards at the forefront of the International Wine Industry.

Leave Blenheim and travel north through the Marlborough wine region toward Picton. The road follows the beautiful Wairau Valley and the coastline of Cloudy Bay. Board the Interislander ferry at Picton to cross the Cook Strait, with spectacular views of the Marlborough Sounds and open sea. Onboard, you can relax in comfort, enjoy locally sourced cuisine and drinks, or simply take in the incredible views from the observation decks. Your trip ends as you arrive in Wellington, a city nestled around a deep, natural harbour.

WELLINGTON/TE WHANGANUI-A-TARA – the Capital city of New Zealand since 1865, is situated around Wellington harbour, its houses clinging precipitously to the steep hillsides. Wellington is renowned for its wind which is channelled through the Cook Strait, and causes the wind to blow most days. A clever blend of buildings, old and new, beautiful vistas of the city and harbour, and a cosmopolitan mix of culture and arts give Wellington its heart, and vibrant atmosphere.

A day in Wellington today and the Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, General Admission is included to visit at your own pace. This entry ticket is your key to one of New Zealand’s most important cultural institutions. Te Papa is a treasure trove of art and history, with a world-renowned collection of Māori and Pacific Island cultural artifacts. You can also explore exhibitions on New Zealand’s natural history, including volcanoes and unique wildlife, and learn about the country’s military history.

Leave Wellington and follow the Kāpiti Coast north. Continue through the Manawatū and the volcanic plateau, passing Mount Ruapehu. The route skirts Lake Taupō and takes you through forests and geothermal valleys. Your journey concludes as you arrive in Rotorua, a city known for its geysers and hot springs.

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.

Enjoy the Te Ra + Haka at Te Puia. This is an ideal package for experiencing both the natural and cultural wonders of Te Puia. You’ll first take a guided tour to see the Pōhutu Geyser and bubbling mud pools. Afterward, you’ll attend a cultural performance in a traditionally carved meeting house, where you will witness the famous haka and other traditional songs and dances, all performed with great passion and energy.

Enjoy a free day in Rotorua to relax and soak up the geothermal wonders, or choose an optional tour – whether it’s bubbling mud pools, cultural experiences, or thrilling activities, the choice is yours.

Journey west from Rotorua through rolling farmland and limestone hills to Waitomo, world-renowned for its underground wonders.

Here you’ll explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and journey into a subterranean wonderland. Your guide will lead you on a walk through the upper sections of the cave, sharing insights into the cave’s history and geology. The highlight is the silent boat ride on an underground river, where you’ll be surrounded by thousands of tiny glowworms that create a mesmerizing star-like display on the cave ceiling.

Travel north from Waitomo through the rich farmland of the Waikato and across the Bombay Hills before arriving in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland dazzles with its twin harbours, volcanic cones, and vibrant mix of culture, dining, and waterfront charm.

Go on a great trip north from Auckland. The landscape becomes more rugged and green as you head into the Northland region. The Bay of Islands is a truly beautiful part of the country, with over 140 islands, great beaches, and a huge amount of Māori and European history to explore.

BAY OF ISLANDS/IPIPIRI – This was the name given by Captain James Cook when he described the area 200 years ago. The Bay, studded with over 150 islands, is a “drowned river system,” an area where the sea has invaded and drowned a number of river valleys. Its sheltered waters offer some of the finest boating and fishing to be found anywhere. The Bay of Islands was the site of the first Christian Mission station in New Zealand, as well as having New Zealand’s first capital city, Russell, which is now a quiet little seaside village.

Explore Russell tonight for dinner aboard one of Northland Ferries, Paihia – Russell return sailings. It’s a fun and easy way to get out on the water and get around the Bay of Islands.

RUSSELL – is a picturesque seaside village a short ferry ride from Paihia. Known for its historic charm, this inviting town features colonial architecture, vibrant waterfront cafes, and stunning harbour views. Visitors can enjoy relaxed strolls along the waterfront, explore historic sites like Christ Church, or take a scenic boat trip to see dolphins and nearby islands. With its friendly atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and rich maritime history, Russell offers a captivating escape that perfectly combines relaxation and intrigue.

There’s nothing like waking up in the Bay of Islands and today is at your leisure to relax on golden beaches, explore charming towns, or choose an optional adventure: take a Hole in the Rock cruise, sail to hidden coves, or embark on a full-day trip to the iconic Cape Reinga.

Get ready for a popular and straightforward journey down State Highway 1. You’ll leave the stunning coastal scenery of the Bay of Islands behind and travel south through the Northland region, which is a mix of lush forest and rolling farmland. It’s a great trip to end your northern adventure before arriving back in the bustling city of 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, Maori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

This afternoon enjoy the All Blacks Experience Guided Tour. This immersive and interactive tour is a must-do for both rugby fans and those new to the game. You’ll take a guided journey through seven rooms with innovative technology that brings the history and passion of New Zealand rugby to life. The tour also gives you the chance to test your skills in an interactive zone and come face-to-face with a powerful cinematic haka.

Today you’ll return your rental car today and leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and plan your next trip down to see us.