21 Day New Zealand Explorer 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 – 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.

Start your day with a captivating introduction to Christchurch “Garden City” with a Discover Christchurch Morning Tour.  Your guide will provide commentary on the devastating 2011 earthquake and the city’s ongoing revitalization. You’ll visit significant sites like Mona Vale homestead, the Port Hills for spectacular city views, and the seaside suburb of Sumner before returning to the central city.

Spend a free afternoon in Christchurch at your own pace – wander the city’s streets, discover hidden gems, or book optional tours to explore more of its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, fascinating stories of resilience, or take a trip to charming Akaroa with its French-inspired streets, harbour views, and playful Hector’s dolphins.

Today you will pick up your Compact SUV Budget rental car for your journey further south to Lake Tekapo.

Prepare your camera for this spectacular trip that takes you inland from Christchurch. Travel from Christchurch to Mount Cook through the heart of the South Island, passing dramatic Canterbury Plains, braided rivers, and the towering Southern Alps – a scenic journey of mountains, farmland, and unforgettable views.

Immerse yourself in this spectacular region and enjoy the mountain air, extraordinary scenery and local adventures.

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.

Leave Lake Tekapo in the Mackenzie Basin and head southeast. The route takes you through Ōamaru, a town well-known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and a colony of little blue penguins. Continue along the Otago coast, passing through lush farmland and river valleys. Your journey concludes as you arrive in Dunedin, a city rich in Scottish heritage and culture.

Step back in time with a visit to Larnach Castle, a gothic revival masterpiece built in 1871. Your entry gives you access to the castle’s restored interior, where you can learn about the history of the Larnach family. You can also explore the stunning gardens of international significance and climb the tower for panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula and surrounding harbor.

DUNEDIN/OTEPOTI – often called the “Edinburgh of the South”, Dunedin was settled by the Scottish settlers that came to New Zealand. It is a city of spires, of towers, gables and roofs with turrets, and gracious, generally stone, buildings. Dunedin is also home to the Albatross and Penguin colonies plus many species of New Zealand wildlife.

Monarch Wildlife Cruises and Tours – Standard Peninsula Encounter Tour: Today, discover the wild beauty and rare wildlife of the Otago Peninsula on this immersive small group tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Travel over the high road with postcard views of the harbour and coast. A short walk from the mini-bus will bring you to a remote beach with dramatic views of rugged coastal cliffs, offshore islands and possibly some huge sea lions. Continuing to Taiaroa Head, home to the royal albatross breeding colony, where you can learn about this majestic bird at the visitors centre and spot it flying overhead, or take a short walk to see a fur seal haul out. The final stop on the tour is at a yellow-eyed Penguin conservation reserve. Visit the on-site rehab centre before visiting different viewing hides scattered around the reserve, from which you can try and spot world’s rarest penguin. Your guide will discuss the conservation work being done to help save this special penguin species.

This journey takes you southwest from Dunedin, passing through some lovely rural areas and smaller towns. The landscape is a mix of farmlands and high country, and as you get closer to Te Anau, you’ll start to feel the grandeur of the mountains and lakes that make up Fiordland. Te Anau is a great place to stay overnight before heading into Milford Sound.

Embark on a magical evening adventure into the hidden underground world of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where luminous glowworms create a magical experience unlike any other. Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau aboard one of our purpose-built vessels. On arrival at Cavern House, explore fascinating displays that uncover the caves’ geology and history before your guide leads you into the underground labyrinth. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will highlight the caves’ unique features and share captivating stories about their formation and discovery. Marvel at twisting limestone passages, sculpted rock formations, swirling whirlpools, and a thundering underground waterfall. The journey culminates in a hidden grotto, where you’ll drift silently by boat beneath a sparkling canopy of glowworms unique to New Zealand.

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.

Today, embark on the scenic drive along the world-renowned Milford Road. This journey is a destination in itself, with countless stunning photo opportunities at places like Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel.

Upon arrival in Milford Sound, you will join RealNZ for their legendary Milford Sound Cruise. This is a quintessential Fiordland experience. Your cruise will take you through the entire length of the magnificent Milford Sound, from the sheltered harbour out to the Tasman Sea. Onboard, a specialist nature guide will provide fascinating and informative commentary, sharing insights into the area’s rich history, geology, and wildlife. You’ll get up close to iconic landmarks like the sheer cliffs of Mitre Peak and the thundering Stirling Falls, and keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and the rare Fiordland crested penguins. The purpose-built vessels offer spacious indoor lounges and expansive outdoor viewing decks, ensuring you have the perfect vantage point to take in the awe-inspiring, glacier-carved landscape, regardless of the weather.

After the cruise, you’ll travel back along the Milford Road, but this time, you’ll continue your journey through the rugged wilderness, past ancient beech forests and vast mountain ranges, before arriving in the vibrant alpine resort town of Queenstown.

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.

There is so much to do in and around Queenstown that you are spoilt for choice today. Choose from one of our suggested optional ours, take it easy and enjoy the alone town or talk to your consultant about the myriads of fun on offer in this extraordinary destination.

Tonight take a magical evening cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak Station for a Gourmet BBQ Dinner.  As the sun sets over the mountains, you’ll cross Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, where you’ll enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant. The evening also includes a farm show, where you can see sheep dogs in action and a sheep shearing demonstration.

Start your day with a world-famous Queenstown thrill ride! Hop aboard the legendary Shotover Jet for an unforgettable jet boating experience through the dramatic Shotover River canyons. You’ll be on a powerful jet boat with a highly skilled driver who will navigate through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. The ride is packed with excitement, with speeds of up to 85km/h and heart-pounding 360-degree spins, all while the stunning scenery rushes past.

From Queenstown take an incredibly scenic journey that links the adventure hub with the West Coast glaciers. You’ll travel over the Haast Pass, a route with lush rainforest and past towering mountains. The scenery transforms dramatically as you travel up the West Coast, with lush native bush and dramatic coastal views before you arrive at the glaciers.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER/WAIAU – originally named Victoria, after Queen Victoria of England, geologist Julius Von Haast, renamed it, Franz Josef, after the current Emperor of his homeland, Austria. The Glacier is pale blue/green ice that has retreated and advanced many times over the years. A walk from the carpark to the Glacier terminal will give you some impressive views and an idea of the immense size of the Glacier itself. The township of Franz Josef is a small town based around the tourist and supply trade.

Today you will journey up the wild West Coast to the famous Pancake Rocks. This trip takes you north along State Highway 6. You’ll be treated to spectacular views of the rugged coastline, with dense native forest on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other. Be sure to stop at Lake Matheson, where crystal-clear reflections of snowcapped peaks make for truly unforgettable scenery.

Enroute, immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the Franz Josef region on a unique Franz Josef Wilderness Tours: Cruise and Walk. This unique tour offers a two-and-a-half-hour immersion into the untouched beauty of the Franz Josef region. You’ll begin with a tranquil cruise across Lake Mapourika, a scenic gem known for its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding Southern Alps and ancient rainforest. Your knowledgeable guide will share local stories and point out native birdlife as you glide across the calm water. The highlight of the trip is an exclusive landing at the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, where you’ll embark on a guided walk along a private rainforest trail. This is a rare opportunity to experience a Jurassic-like ecosystem, with towering trees and a lush undergrowth, all while learning about the conservation efforts for the critically endangered Rowi kiwi.

The route passes through charming West Coast towns before you arrive in Punakaiki, famous for its unique rock formations and blowholes.

As you travel north, the route follows the spectacular Great Coast Road, a drive considered one of the top ten coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet. The road hugs the rugged coastline, with the wild ocean on one side and native forest and limestone cliffs on the other. The scenery gradually changes as you head inland, and the landscape becomes sunnier and more golden as you approach Nelson. This vibrant city, known for its thriving arts and crafts scene, is an ideal base for exploring the region’s national parks, vineyards, and stunning beaches.

NELSON/WHAKATU – with its gardens and gorgeous sunsets, looks across Tasman Bay. Streets and Parks are named after Admiral Nelson and his exploits, as well as the names of the ships that brought the first pioneers over from England. Forestry, fruit and fishing are the main focus of Nelson’s port, while to the west, apple orchards, tobacco and hop plantations occupy the land.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Nelson to Kaiteriteri, a relaxed journey of around 1 hour through rolling hills, coastal farmland, and charming rural towns. As you get closer to the coast, the landscape opens up to reveal golden beaches and turquoise waters—a taste of the natural beauty that defines the Abel Tasman region.

Along the way, consider stopping in Riwaka or Motueka for a coffee or a stroll through local artisan shops before arriving in Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park and one of New Zealand’s most picturesque beach destinations.

Take a Wilson’s Abel Tasman Ltd – Cruise/Walk – Opt 3: Seals & Beach. Travel in style and comfort aboard the Vista Cruise into Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Pause to view the antics at Tonga Island Seal Colony then land at historic Tonga Quarry Beach. Embark on a 2 hour walk over a forested saddle (maximum elevation 120 metres/400 ft) and around the Bark Bay waterfall trail, crossing the photogenic swing bridge beside Bark Bay Falls. Take some extra time to relax on the golden sands at Bark Bay beach before you continue on to picturesque Medlands Beach.

This is a scenic journey that takes you across the top of the South Island, through the Whangamoa and Rai Valleys, and passes through small towns like Havelock – the green-lipped mussel capital of New Zealand – making it a popular place for a short break. The route follows the coastline and then heads inland, concluding as you arrive in Blenheim, a town renowned as the heart of New Zealand’s famous wine country.

Leave Blenheim and travel further 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. Your trip ends as you arrive in Wellington, a city nestled around a deep, natural harbour.

Interislander:  Picton to Wellington. This spectacular journey, often described as one of the world’s most scenic ferry crossings, is your chance to cruise through the tranquil Marlborough Sounds. As you depart Picton, you’ll be amazed by the secluded bays, lush forests, and rugged coastline. The journey then takes you into the Cook Strait and finally into Wellington’s vibrant harbor. Onboard, you can relax in comfort, enjoy locally sourced cuisine and drinks, or simply take in the incredible views from the observation decks.

Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, Introducing Te Papa tour is included today which is a one-hour guided tour and an excellent way to get the most out of your visit to Te Papa. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the museum, sharing captivating stories and providing a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s rich history, art, and culture, from its unique geological past to its indigenous Māori traditions.

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.

This is a fantastic journey that takes you from the bustling, culture-rich city of Wellington to Ohakune. Leaving Wellington’s harbour behind, the route travels north through rolling farmland and charming rural towns. The landscape gradually becomes more rugged and dramatic as you approach the Central North Island, where the magnificent volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage site, begin to dominate the horizon. Ohakune, nestled at the base of Mount Ruapehu, is the gateway to the Turoa and Whakapapa ski fields in winter and a hub for world-class hiking and mountain biking in summer.

OHAKUNE – is the town at the southern gateway to the Tongariro National Park World Heritage Site and Mount Ruapehu’s ski fields. It is known as the aprés ski capital of the North Island’s Mount Ruapehu, the Carrot Capital of New Zealand. It’s a great location and aptly lends itself to the phrase “where adventures begin”. Skiers and boarders flock to Ohakune to take in what the largest ski area in New Zealand has to offer – Whakapapa and Turoa, then enjoy Ohakune’s varied entertainment, restaurants and cafes.In summer Ohakune is a fantastic base for visitors wanting to experience the many outdoor activities whether it is canoeing on the Whanganui River or taking in some of the many mountain treks on Mount Ruapehu and in the national parks. A fast growing activity here is mountain biking around the Ruapehu area.

This journey is a fantastic way to experience the powerful and diverse landscapes of the Central North Island. Departing from Ohakune, nestled at the base of Mount Ruapehu, you’ll travel through the Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage Area. The road winds through the unique, high-altitude desert-like terrain of the Rangipo Desert, offering stunning views of the park’s three volcanic peaks. The landscape gradually changes as you head north, with the volcanic scenery giving way to the vast pine forests and the expansive Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. The final leg of the journey takes you into the heart of the country’s geothermal activity. As you enter Rotorua, you’ll be greeted by the distinctive smell of sulfur and the sight of rising steam, a prelude to the city’s geysers, hot springs, and rich Māori culture. This trip perfectly transitions from the wild alpine to the vibrant geothermal.

Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland – this is a must-do attraction in Rotorua. You’ll explore the park on a self-guided walk, with well-maintained paths that take you to see the vibrant Champagne Pool, the bubbling mud pools, and the multi-colored hot springs. The admission also includes the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser, an impressive spectacle that showcases the power of the earth.

Tonight, experience Te Puia’s Te Po combo (Guided experience + Indigenous Evening). This is a perfect way to enjoy 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.

Spend the morning at Waimangu Volcanic Valley on a Self Guided Walk & Boat Cruise. This is the most popular way to experience the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. You’ll first take a self-guided walk through the valley to see the unique geothermal features, including the stunning Inferno Crater. At the end of the walk, you’ll embark on a scenic boat cruise of Lake Rotomahana, where you can see the geysers and hot springs from the water, all while a knowledgeable guide provides commentary.

Enjoy a free afternoon 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.

Leave Rotorua and head northeast through rolling farmland and pine forest. The route takes you across the Hauraki Plains with views of the Coromandel Ranges.

On your way you’ll be stopping at Hobbiton Movie Set Tours and joining the hugely popular Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. Step into Middle-earth with this enchanting guided tour. You’ll journey through the picturesque sheep farm to the movie set, where you’ll see the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the Party Tree. Your guide will share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and movie magic secrets, culminating in a complimentary beverage at the world-famous Green Dragon Inn.

Continue through coastal valleys and settlements before arriving in Pauanui, a peaceful seaside town on the Coromandel Peninsula.

PAUANUI – Located in the beautiful Coromandel region of New Zealand, Pauanui would have to be amongst the most beautiful spots in the world. A tranquil harbour rests behind Pauanui making it a sheltered and idyllic settlement. Safe swimming and surfing, climb Pauanui Mountain via a walking track, catch a ferry to nearby Tairua and explore the surrounding area.

Departing from the peaceful, purpose-built holiday town of Pauanui, you’ll first travel through the lush farmlands of the Waikato before navigating the urban sprawl of Auckland. Once north of the city, the landscape transforms, giving way to the rolling hills and picturesque towns of Northland. The final leg of the trip takes you into the stunning Bay of Islands, an area renowned for its 144 subtropical islands, rich Māori and European history, and abundant marine life. You can stop along the way at charming spots like Whangārei to see its impressive falls or Kawakawa to visit the famous Hundertwasser toilets. This journey is a perfect blend of coastal beauty, history, and tranquil scenery, with a vibrant destination awaiting you.

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.

This morning you will head out on the famous Fullers Great Sights, Hole in the Rock Cruise. Board a purpose-built catamaran for a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock. You’ll sail through pristine islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula, with an excellent chance to see dolphins and other marine life. The tour also includes a stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach or take a short walk for panoramic views.

This afternoon the Waitangi National Trusts Waitangi Experience Pass beckons. This pass provides an all-inclusive experience of New Zealand’s most important historic site. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi, the nation’s founding document, through an informative guided tour and a powerful Māori cultural performance. The pass is valid for two consecutive days, allowing plenty of time to explore the museums, heritage buildings, and the world’s largest ceremonial waka.

Get ready for a popular 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.