26 Day Majestic New Zealand Tour 

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

Enjoy a free day in Auckland exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, strolling the waterfront, visiting local galleries and museums, relaxing in lush parks like the Domain, or taking in panoramic views from Mount Eden at your own pace. Or chat with your consultant to add an exciting optional tour. Auckland offers plenty of great choices!

Start your journey by picking up your Compact SUV Budget Rental Car and then heading east out of the city toward the pristine natural beauty of the Coromandel. Leaving Auckland’s urban landscape behind, the route heads south, weaving through the scenic farmlands of the Waikato region. As you approach the peninsula, the road becomes more winding, offering glimpses of the Coromandel’s rugged, bush-clad hills and stunning coastline. The journey culminates as you arrive in the heart of the peninsula, a destination renowned for its golden-sand beaches, lush native forests, and charming, laid-back coastal towns.

On route you will also join Driving Creek Railways, Driving Creek Railway Tour. This family-friendly, all-weather experience takes you on a journey through a regenerating native forest and wildlife sanctuary. The railway, hand-built by artist and conservationist Barry Brickell, crosses bridges and tunnels, culminating at the “EyeFull Tower” for panoramic views. Your guide will share the inspiring story of art, engineering, and conservation that shaped this special place.

COROMANDEL PENINSULA – the Peninsula juts out from the South Auckland coastline to separate the Hauraki Gulf from the Bay of Plenty. Deep in the bush lie abandoned mining machinery, old kauri water dams, and timber milling equipment. The Peninsula is full of contrasts – the sea lapping on quiet golden beaches or crashing onto jagged rocks at the bottom of a steep cliff. Farmland is fertile in some places, and in other areas has reverted to manuka and gorse.

Make the most of your free day in the Coromandel with an unforgettable adventure! Talk to your consultants about booking an optional tour. You may wish to soak up the sun and sea on a thrilling boat tour with Cathedral Cove Ocean Leopard Tours, where you’ll cruise past towering cliffs, hidden sea caves, and the iconic Cathedral Cove. Or, slow it down with a Kiwi Dundee Nature and Coastal Tour, led by passionate local guides who’ll take you deep into native forests, across dramatic coastlines, and share the region’s rich stories, wildlife, and secret spots along the way.

This scenic journey offers a fantastic transition from the peaceful, bush-clad hills and coastal heritage of the Coromandel Peninsula to the dynamic, volcanic landscapes of the Central North Island. Departing from Coromandel Township, a historic gold-mining settlement, the route travels south and inland, passing through the rugged beauty of the peninsula before joining the fertile farmlands and rolling hills of the Waikato region. As you approach your destination, the scenery changes dramatically, and you’ll begin to notice signs of the powerful geothermal forces at play beneath the earth’s surface. The air may become infused with the scent of sulfur, and you’ll pass steaming vents and bubbling mud pools. Arriving in Rotorua, you’ll find a city defined by its unique geothermal activity and its deep connection to Māori culture.

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.

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.

Start the day with a visit to the geothermal valley 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.

Spend the afternoon on a three-hour guided journey deep into a native forest on a Rotorua Canopy Tours – The Original Canopy Tour. Your expert guides will lead you on a series of ziplines and suspended swing bridges, providing thrilling views of the canopy. Along the way, they will share their knowledge of the forest and its conservation story, allowing you to not only experience a truly unique landscape but also become a part of the effort to preserve it.

This evening, consider adding the optional Te Pō Indigenous Experience for an unforgettable night celebrating Māori culture and tradition.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Rotorua. Whether you choose to relax in one of the region’s renowned geothermal spas, explore local attractions, or simply soak in the natural beauty and rich culture, the day is yours to spend as you please. You may also wish to add an optional tour – be sure to chat with your consultant for personalised recommendation.

Depart Rotorua and travel through Kaingaroa Forest and the landscapes of a volcanic plateau. The route then crosses the Kaweka Ranges, with its winding mountain roads, before descending into Hawke’s Bay. You’ll pass through beautiful orchards and vineyards before arriving in Napier, a city known for its stunning Art Deco architecture.

NAPIER/AHURIRI – the largest city in the Hawke’s Bay, whose port handles the province’s huge volumes of produce, spreads around the wedge of Bluff Hill, sometimes still referred to as “Scinde Island.” Napier was almost completely surrounded by water before the severe 1931 earthquake flattened the city but uplifted vast areas of the surrounding seabed. As a result of the disaster, the city was almost completely rebuilt during the 1930’s, giving it an Art Deco style of architecture, unique to a New Zealand city.

Join the Art Deco Trust this afternoon for Private Guided Tour – The Inside Story. This private guided tour is the ultimate way to experience the Art Deco capital of the world. Led by an expert guide from The Art Deco Trust, this exclusive experience goes beyond the standard walk, offering a personalized and in-depth look at the city’s unique history and architecture. You’ll not only see the stunning facades of Napier’s 1930s buildings but also gain special access to some of the city’s most beautiful and rarely seen Art Deco interiors. Your guide will share captivating stories of the 1931 earthquake and the remarkable rebuild, providing context and insight into the city’s unique character.

Choose from one of our optional tours today in Napier but if none take your fancy then simply let your consultant know and we can design you a perfect Napier day tailored to your needs.

Leave Napier and climb the Remutaka Hill Road into the Wairarapa. You will travel through towns including Featherston, Carterton, and Masterton, across fertile farmland. The journey then continues northeast across rolling farmland and orchards. Your trip concludes as you arrive in Wellington, a city on the Pacific coast known for its Art Deco architecture.

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.

Once settled in head to Te Papa Museum of New Zealand to take the Introducing Te Papa tour. 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.

This afternoon you will return your rental car to the Budget Rent A Car Wellington City Depot on Dixon Street.

Enjoy a free day to explore Wellington, New Zealand’s cool and creative capital. Wander along the vibrant waterfront or ride the historic cable car up to the Botanic Garden for sweeping city views. Indulge in Wellington’s thriving café culture, boutique shopping, and street art scene – or simply soak up the laid-back vibe of this compact and walkable city. For a unique adventure, consider booking an optional on the thrilling Seal Coast Safari, where you’ll journey off-road to see a wild seal colony and panoramic coastal views. Alternatively, discover native wildlife after dark on a Zealandia by Night tour, an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s first fully fenced urban eco-sanctuaries. Whatever your interests, Wellington offers the perfect mix of culture, nature, and fun.

You’ll be collected from your hotel by private transfer and taken to the Wellington Ferry Terminal for your onward journey. This trip begins with a beautiful ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton on the Interislander. 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. The “Plus” experience elevates your trip with access to the exclusive, child-free Premium Lounge. Here, you’ll find comfortable seating, complimentary food and a selection of premium New Zealand wines and craft beers, ensuring a peaceful and luxurious passage with some of the best views on the ship.

Upon arrival in Picton, you’ll board the Coastal Pacific train for a scenic journey along the coastline to Kaikōura, where mountains meet the sea. A breathtaking introduction to the South Island’s dramatic coastline. Departing from the charming port town of Picton, the train first winds its way through the picturesque vineyards of the Marlborough wine region. The true highlight begins as the track reaches the coast, where it hugs the shoreline for a mesmerizing stretch, with the Pacific Ocean just meters from your window. You’ll be treated to spectacular, ever-changing views of turquoise water, rugged cliffs, and secluded bays. As you approach the famous town of Kaikōura, the magnificent Kaikōura Ranges rise dramatically from the sea, creating a stunning and unique backdrop. The train’s custom-built panoramic windows and open-air viewing carriage ensure you have the best possible vantage point for photos and enjoying the fresh sea air. This scenic ride is a perfect way to experience a unique part of New Zealand’s beauty.

Transferred by private transfer from Kaikoura Train Station to your accommodation.

KAIKOURA/TE TAUMANU O TE WAKA A MAUI – means “to eat crayfish”, from the Māori 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 morning, dive into your Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura experience, an unforgettable opportunity to swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment. The dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round, making Kaikoura a unique place in the world where, weather permitting, wild dolphins can typically be encountered every day. It is something incredibly special that these wild animals choose to stop and engage one on one with swimmers in the water. Dusky dolphins are probably the most interactive dolphin species and snorkeling with the pod will leave you with lasting magical memories.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in Kaikōura. Take a scenic stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway for stunning views of the ocean and mountains, pop into the Kaikōura Museum for a dose of local history, or simply unwind by the waterfront. Don’t miss the chance to grab some classic Kiwi fish and chips which are best enjoyed by the sea with the sound of waves and seabirds in the background.

Depart to Kaikoura Train Station by private transfer. Jump aboard the Coastal Pacific Train and continue your journey to Christchurch. Departing from the coastal town of Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea, the train follows a beautiful section of the Pacific coastline. For much of the journey, the track runs just metres from the ocean, providing mesmerizing views of the water and the rugged cliffs. You’ll pass through a series of tunnels and be treated to incredible vistas of the Kaikōura Ranges. The train’s custom-built panoramic windows and open-air viewing carriage ensure you have the best possible vantage point for photos and enjoying the fresh sea air. As the train nears Christchurch, the landscape transforms, leaving the dramatic coast behind for the immense, flat expanse of the Canterbury Plains.

Upon arrival at Christchurch Train Station you will be transferred 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 morning hop in your private transfer back to Christchurch Train Station and get ready for an unforgettable journey onboard the TranzAlpine train to Greymouth. Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.  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 fields of the Canterbury Plains, beautiful gorges and river valleys, the spectacular Southern Alps and the lush green valleys of the West Coast. 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.

Uplift your new Compact SUV Budget Rental Car . From Greymouth, journey south through lush and green landscapes. You’ll also pass through historic towns before you arrive at the famous Franz Josef Glacier.

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.

A free day to spend exploring the West Coast region. For a peaceful way to explore Franz Josef’s stunning natural beauty, we suggest an optional kayak and nature walk on the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika. Paddle through pristine reflections and finish with a short walk in the lush, untouched Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) rainforest.

Or fuel your adventurous spirit with an optional Franz Josef Glacier Guides – Heli-Hike. This tour is consistently rated as a highlight of any New Zealand trip. After a thrilling helicopter flight over the glacier, you’ll land high on the ice fall. Equipped with boots and crampons provided by the company, your expert guide will lead you on a two-and-a-half-hour hike through an ever-changing landscape of ice caves, crevasses, and towering ice formations.

This is a trip you’ll never forget. You’ll travel from the unique rainforest environment of Franz Josef, passing through the Haast Pass, with waterfalls and lush native bush, before the landscape completely changes into the rugged high-country of Central Otago. It’s an epic journey that ends in the bustling 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.

It is Milford Sound today!  Join Altitude Tours on their Milford Sound – Coach / Cruise / Fly, Including Lunch. This full-day, all-inclusive tour is a “bucket list” experience that showcases the stunning beauty of Fiordland from every angle. Your adventure begins with a comfortable coach trip from Queenstown in a premium Mercedes van, where your knowledgeable local guide will provide entertaining commentary and make multiple stops for incredible photo opportunities at iconic spots like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, you’ll board a small-boat nature cruise to explore the length of the fiord, getting up close to its towering waterfalls and spotting unique wildlife. The grand finale is a breathtaking scenic flight, where you’ll soar over the razor-sharp mountain peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes you just traveled through, arriving back in Queenstown in a fraction of the time. This seamless tour is designed for comfort and convenience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

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

Leave the vibrant town of Queenstown and travel east across the rolling, rugged landscape of Central Otago. The route takes you through a region known for its dramatic hills and gold-mining history. You’ll pass by beautiful river valleys and farmlands before your journey concludes as you arrive in Dunedin, a city with a distinct Scottish heritage and stunning Victorian architecture.

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 is at your leisure to explore Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. You may wish to start with a morning stroll through the Dunedin Botanic Gardens and take in some street art or visit the Dunedin Public Art Gallery near the Octagon.

In the afternoon, head back out to the scenic Otago Peninsula for our two suggested optional tours: For a deeper wildlife encounter, consider booking the Standard Peninsula Encounter Tour plus Monarch Wildlife Cruise, which offers stunning views of Taiaroa Head and close encounters with royal albatross, fur seals, and seabirds from the water. If you’re especially interested in penguins and ecology, we suggest the Otago Peninsula In-Depth Tour with evening penguin viewing at Blue Penguins Pukekura is a fantastic option. These are well worth the cost for the incredible wildlife and landscapes you’ll experience.

This journey offers a stunning and diverse look at the South Island’s landscape. Leaving Dunedin, a city known for its Victorian architecture and dramatic peninsula, the route heads north along the beautiful east coast. You’ll pass through charming small towns and have the option of visiting unique geological formations like the Moeraki Boulders. As the road turns inland, the scenery changes dramatically from the coastal environment to the vast, open spaces of the Mackenzie Basin. The golden tussock lands are flanked by the Ben Ohau Range, and the air becomes crisp and clean.

TWIZEL/MACKENZIE BASIN – also traditionally known as the Mackenzie Country, is a roughly elliptical shaped basin that is surrounded by mountain ranges. It is located near the geographical centre of the South Island of New Zealand and is regarded as a typical representative of New Zealand’s “High Country”. The basin covers about 100 km north-south direction and about 40 km from east to west. The majority of the Mackenzie Basin is located in the Canterbury region and also to a small extent in the south on the Waitaki River in Otago. The main townships in the Mackenzie Basin are Lake Tekapo, population under 500, Twizel, with a population of 1,100 and Omarama with less than 400 residents. The surrounding area boasts glacial lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks, which are particularly popular with tourists and skiers. The Mackenzie Basin is often used as a location for film productions, including Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings.

Today take a breathtaking, short trip that takes you into the heart of New Zealand’s highest alpine region. Departing from Twizel, the route soon joins State Highway 80 and begins to parallel the stunning Lake Pukaki. The lake’s surreal turquoise color, created by glacial rock flour, is a mesmerizing sight, and as you travel along its edge, the imposing presence of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps grows larger in the distance. The road offers countless photo opportunities, most notably from Peter’s Lookout, which provides the quintessential view of the lake with the mountain as its backdrop. The journey culminates in Mount Cook Village, a hub for hiking and exploring the national park.

At Mount Cook jump aboard the Glacier Explorer. This 2.5-hour tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. You’ll take a short walk to the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier, where you’ll board a boat to cruise among floating icebergs and get an up-close view of the glacier’s face. Your knowledgeable guide will share the history of the glacier and the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, providing a surreal and educational experience.

The return drive offers a fresh perspective on this incredible landscape, making the entire journey an unforgettable experience of New Zealand’s high country. you can either choose to take up one of the optional tours or head off on your spectacular journey from the heart of the Southern Alps to the adventure capital. You’ll leave the Mount Cook area and travel through the Mackenzie Basin, with views of the Southern Alps and the famous turquoise lakes. The journey continues through the rugged high country of Central Otago before you arrive in Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Spend a relaxing with a free day in Twizel. You may wish to explore the scenic Twizel River Trail or enjoying the peaceful views at Lake Pukaki and the Pukaki Flats. If visiting in summer, the NZ Alpine Lavender Farm is also worth a stop. In the evening, you may wish to elevate your experience with our suggested optional tour: a Private Stargazing Tour from Alpha Crux, where an expert guide brings a telescope to your accommodation or a dark sky spot nearby for an intimate and personalised journey through the stars, all within the internationally renowned Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.

Your trip begins in Twizel as you travel north through the Mackenzie Basin. The route takes you past Lake Tekapo, known for its brilliant turquoise waters and alpine views. You will descend through Burkes Pass into South Canterbury farmland. The journey continues across the Canterbury Plains before you arrive in Christchurch.

Spend an afternoon in Christchurch with Amiki Cultural Food Tours on their Hidden Gems City Sights Tour. Follow in the footsteps of the tipuna (ancestors) on this guided walk through central Ōtautahi Christchurch. Begin with a traditional Māori welcome before exploring laneways, gardens, and riverside paths that reveal city’s hidden treasures. Journey through the heart of the inner city with passionate local Māori guides who share their culture, myths and legends, settler history, and Christchurch’s vibrant post-earthquake evolution. This immersive walking tour blends storytelling, architecture, and indigenous wisdom, offering a deeper connection to the land and its people. Duration: approx. 1.5 hours.

Head to Christchurch Airport and return your rental car. Today, you’ll sadly leave New Zealand with a taste of what this stunning country has to offer and hopefully plans to be back to see what you didn’t see this time round.