23 Day Explore New Zealand Tour 

Welcome to Auckland, 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.

What better way to see Auckland than from its highest point! This afternoon you’ll visit SKYCITY Auckland and enjoy the Total Tower Experience – Sky Tower/Sky Deck. The Total Tower Experience allows you to explore every publicly accessible level of the Sky Tower. You’ll take a glass-fronted elevator to the main observation deck at 186 meters and continue up to the Sky Deck at 220 meters for even more spectacular panoramic views. The experience offers a chance to see Auckland’s volcanoes, harbors, and islands, and provides an impressive perspective on the city’s geography.

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.

Today you’ll pick up your Compact SUV Budget Rental Car and head north from the city and discover the breathtaking beauty of Northland, New Zealand’s ‘Winterless North.’ This vibrant region offers stunning beaches, lush subtropical forests, and rich Maori culture. Explore the famous Bay of Islands, a paradise for sailing, dolphin cruises, and island hopping. Experience the ancient history at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand’s story began. Wander through charming coastal towns, indulge in fresh seafood, and marvel at untouched natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Northland promises unforgettable experiences in a spectacular setting.

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.

Northland Ferries, Paihia – Russell – Paihia Ferry. When you reach your accommodation we have included a ferry over to explore Russel and its eateries. Northland Ferries operates passenger and vehicle ferries in the Bay of Islands, providing regular and reliable connections for the local community and visitors to the region. It’s a fun and easy way to get out on the water and get a feel for the Bay of Islands.

Two great adventures today starting with Fullers Great Sights (BOI) 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.

Plus Waitangi National Trusts Waitangi Experience Pass. 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. As a tip why not head down early and take one of our optional tours.

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, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

This journey connects three of the North Island’s most famous destinations in a single day. Departing from Auckland, you’ll travel south through the picturesque green hills of the Waikato region. The first major stop is the world-famous Waitomo Caves. Continuing the journey, the landscape transforms as you approach Rotorua, the geothermal heart of New Zealand. Here, you’ll be greeted by the sight and smell of bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers, and discover the city’s rich Māori culture. This trip offers a perfect blend of urban, subterranean, and geothermal wonders in one unforgettable day.

On route you will detour to renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves and marvel at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This tour is a 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.

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.

Today experience two of Rotorua’s best activities, the perfect way to see what Rotorua is all about.

Elite Adventures, 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.

Te Pa Tu, Evening Experience. A tour that celebrates Māori culture and tradition. You’ll be welcomed with a traditional pōwhiri (welcome), and your guide will lead you on a journey through a reconstructed village. The experience includes stories, songs, and demonstrations of Māori life, followed by a powerful cultural performance and a delicious five-course feast. It is an intimate and engaging way to learn about the Māori world.

Leave Rotorua and travel south through Taupō and the central plateau. The route crosses the Desert Road, providing spectacular views of Mount Ruapehu. Continue through the Manawatū region and along the Kāpiti Coast. Your journey concludes as you arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital on a stunning 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.

This afternoon join the Introducing Te Papa Tour at Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. This one-hour guided tour is 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.

The funs not over as tonight you’ll head to Zealandia The Karori Sanctuary and enjoy Zealandia By Night. This is a truly magical and memorable experience. Your guide will lead you on a walk through the sanctuary at night, using infrared lights to spot some of New Zealand’s unique nocturnal creatures, including glowworms, tuatara, and the very shy little spotted kiwi. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see these rare animals in their natural habitat.

This journey starts with a scenic ferry ride across the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton. You’ll be treated to incredible views of the Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Picton, a beautiful harbour town that serves as a gateway to the South Island.

Interislander Wellington to Picton. This journey is often called one of the most beautiful ferry trips in the world. Your crossing starts in Wellington Harbour, and as you leave the city behind, you’ll be greeted by the dramatic cliffs of the Cook Strait. The true highlight is the last part of the journey as the ship glides through the tranquil, fjord-like channels of the Marlborough Sounds.

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. The second Saturday of February is Blenheim’s Wine and Food Festival which draws many to celebrate food, music and dance.

Prepare for a fantastic and scenic journey that hugs the coastline for much of the way. You’ll leave the Marlborough vineyards behind and travel south with the dramatic Kaikōura Ranges on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Keep an eye out for seals, as they often hang out on the rocks right next to the road!

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.

Join Whale Watch Kaikoura today for their famous Whale Watching Tour in the 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.

A very popular trip that takes you south along the stunning coastline. 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 Christchurch, a perfect way to end a coastal adventure.

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.

The perfect way to see Christchurch and its wider city is with Canterbury Trails on their Christchurch City Full Day Tour. This tour is designed for travelers who want to experience all that Christchurch has to offer. You’ll explore the revitalized city center, the Botanic Gardens, and iconic landmarks. The day also includes a visit to the charming seaside suburbs of Lyttelton and Sumner, a scenic drive over the Port Hills, and a delicious lunch at a local cafe.

This is a nice, easy journey from Christchurch. You’ll travel south across the Canterbury Plains, passing through rich farmland. Geraldine is a lovely town to stop in, with a reputation for its local crafts, delicious food, and friendly country atmosphere. It’s a perfect break on a longer journey.

GERALDINE/HERATINI – has that country village atmosphere with majestic old forests and little art and craft corners, its friendliness, tranquillity and wealth of history makes it hard to resist. Geraldine is situated 2 hours (136 km) south of Christchurch on the inland scenic route 72 to Mount Cook and Queenstown.

This is a beautiful drive that showcases the diverse landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Starting in the picturesque town of Geraldine and heading off early you’ll travel through the fertile Canterbury Plains before reaching the east coast. The journey follows the coastline for a significant portion, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. A key highlight is the town of Oamaru, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and resident blue penguin colony. Further south, a must-see detour is the Moeraki Boulders, a collection of large, spherical stones scattered along the beach. As you approach your destination, the scenery gives way to the dramatic hills and unique peninsula of Dunedin.

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.

Today you will join Blue Penguins Pukekuras for their Otago Peninsula In Depth Tour. This comprehensive and educational tour is designed for those with a thirst for knowledge. Your expert guide will take you to explore the remote parts of the peninsula, pointing out unique ecosystems, significant Māori sites, and a variety of wildlife. The tour concludes with the Blue Penguin Pukekura Experience, where you can watch the world’s smallest penguins come ashore at dusk.

Something a little special has been booked for you today with a Classic Jaguar Limousines, Otago Peninsula Experience. Enjoy a full day exploring the heritage and wildlife of the Otago Peninsula with a different spin from yesterday’s tour. Take a personal guided tour of Larnach Castle, build in 1872 for local merchant banker William Larnach. Then view the only mainland royal albatross breeding colony in the world, either with a land based tour or on a harbour cruise aboard the MV Monarch. View the world’s rarest penguin on the Yellow Eyed Penguin Tour at the Penguin Place. Further highlights include fur seal viewing, birdlife, the Otakau Marae, and craft shop options. Warm jackets, Pentax binoculars and chilled bottled water provided.

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.

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.

Prepare for the adrenalin this afternoon as you join Fiordland Jet for their Pure Wilderness Tour. This tour is an exhilarating adventure that combines speed with sightseeing. Your jet boat will take you on a journey up the Waiau River, which was used as the River Anduin in the “Lord of the Rings” films. Your guide will provide entertaining commentary as you glide over shallows and spin through the pristine river system, with the stunning Fiordland mountains as your backdrop.

Its Milford Sound day today! A big day but an extraordinary one as you join RealNZ on their Milford Sound – Coach/Cruise/Coach Tour. Take the time to enjoy the best of Milford Sound with a leisurely cruise. Exploring the length of the fiord you’ll learn about the history of the region and benefit from the knowledge of your specialist nature guide. Experience the cool spray of a waterfall as you move in close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and, in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguins. Your experienced skipper will tailor the cruise to take into consideration weather and recent wildlife sightings, ensuring you’ll see the best that Milford Sound has to offer on the day.

Leave Te Anau and follow the highway east across open farmland. You will pass through Mossburn and Lumsden before entering the Wakatipu Basin with its spectacular mountain views. Your journey concludes as you arrive in Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

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.

Tonight you’ll enjoy great food and great views of Queenstown and beyond on Skyline Queenstown’s Gondola and Dinner. This is a perfect evening out in Queenstown. You’ll take the gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. The package includes a delicious buffet dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant, a perfect way to enjoy the scenery and a great meal.

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.

After a relaxing morning next up is a relatively long but incredibly scenic journey that links the adventure hub with the West Coast glaciers. On route to Franz Josef 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 experience a two-and-a-half-hour immersion into the untouched beauty of the Franz Josef region with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours  on their Cruise and Walk Tour.  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.

Today you’ll drive from Franz Josef to Greymouth to drop your car off and begin an epic train journey aboard the TranzAlpine. Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. The journey takes you from the farmlands of the Canterbury Plains through river gorges and into the mountains of Arthur’s Pass, offering incredible views from the open-air viewing carriage.

The Great Journeys of New Zealand TranzAlpine: Greymouth to Christchurch. Travel on the world famous TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch enjoying the incredible scenery along the way. The journey will take you coast-to-coast through the ‘Great Divide’ and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. From your carriage you’ll see the lush green valleys of the West Coast, the spectacular Southern Alps, beautiful gorges and river valleys and the fields of the Canterbury Plains. Your train journey is 223.8 kilometres long with 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts, the highest being the Staircase standing at 73 metres. An open-air viewing carriage allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities to photograph your favourite spots.

You will be met by Hallmark Limousines at the Christchurch Train Station for your private transfer to your Christchurch city 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.

Today you’ll hop on a private airport transfer and sadly leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and plan your next trip down to see us.