9 Day Kiwi Quest ‘Premium’ 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, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

Today, your guide greets you at your Auckland accommodation in a luxury vehicle for your Fine Art Tours NZ, City of Sails Private Walking Tour. This private tour takes you on a journey through Auckland, the “City of Sails,” showing you the city’s historic and cultural heart. You’ll walk along the waterfront, visit significant Māori sites, and explore some of the city’s extinct volcanic cones for panoramic views. Your knowledgeable guide provides a local perspective on Auckland’s history and offers the flexibility to tailor the day to your interests, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.

You’ll have a free afternoon in Auckland to explore this vibrant city at your leisure. Whether you want to stroll along the waterfront, visit local markets, discover unique cafés, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, the choice is yours.

Today you will pick up your Intermediate Budget rental car and head south to the Rotorua, 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.

Prior to reaching Rotorua though we will have you take a slight detour and enjoy Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, Behind The Scenes Tour. This is an exclusive and immersive adventure of Hobbiton and so much fun. You’ll get a walking tour of the movie set in a smaller group, providing a more personal experience. The highlight is a rare glimpse into the creative workshop where props and set pieces are made, allowing you to learn about the intricate craftsmanship that brings the Shire to life. The tour also includes a banquet lunch and a cheese platter.

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.

This morning you’ll be collected from your accommodation to join Elite Adventures on their Private Eco Thermal Park Tour. This private 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.

Tonight, you will be picked up by Te Pa Tu for an unforgettable evening 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.

Today depart 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 where you’ll drop your car off.

You’ve got a free afternoon and evening in Wellington to soak up the city’s vibe. We suggest by adding an optional visit exploring Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, where you can dive into fascinating exhibits about the country’s culture and history. Then, as night falls, perhaps head out for the Zealandia Night Tour to spot some incredible native wildlife in their natural habitat

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.

Today you’ll be picked up by private transfer and check-in for the Interislander Ferry. The Interislander is a memorable crossing of the majestic Cook Strait. As you approach Picton, be enchanted by the sparkling waters and dramatic coastline of the Marlborough Sounds. From Picton, take a short scenic drive through rolling vineyards and charming countryside to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s famous wine region.

Interislander, Wellington to Picton – Plus. 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.

PICTON/WAITOHI – is a busy seaside town, situated at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. The town is the South Island Terminal for the Cook Strait Ferry, with people and car numbers, rising and falling according to the Ferry Timetable. Picton has wonderful views of Mabel Island, at the Harbour entrance, along with green/blue bush clad ranges that appear to drop into the sea.

Today it’s all aboard for The Great Journeys of New Zealand – Rail, Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch in Scenic Plus class. You’ll take a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty along the Pacific Coast from Picton to Christchurch. From craggy coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to modern vineyards and rustic farmsteads, the Coastal Pacific journey cruises through the full spectrum of New Zealand culture and character. Throw in a healthy dose of seals, seagulls and the possibility of dolphins and even whales, you will have an exception day on the Pacific Coastal Railway. With the Scenic Plus experience, explore the unique cultural and culinary flavours of the Pacific coast as it glides by your window. While you ease back and enjoy the seaside scenery and intimate views of Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards, you’ll be served a menu filled with freshly picked ingredients from the lands you pass through.

Upon arrival to Christchurch, you will be transferred 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.

Today, we have in store for you another of New Zealand’s extraordinary train experiences with Canterbury Trails, Arthur’s Pass – TranzAlpine Train. 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. You’ll have time to explore the alpine village before your return trip.

Transferred today to Christchurch airport. 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.