Day of Arrival - Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand
Upon arrival, your tour guide will greet you at Auckland Airport. Depending on your arrival time and your state of fatigue, if time permits, we'll guide you through the Auckland Botanical Garden tour and offer you a complimentary coffee or tea.
Day 1 - Auckland City
Start your incredible Escorted Tour of New Zealand in the lively city of Auckland. Auckland is a diverse urban area filled with food, music, arts, and culture. You'll find top-notch shopping and great dining near beautiful harbors, islands, forests, and beaches.
Explore Auckland with your guide during the day, where you'll enjoy guided tours to iconic landmarks such as the Sky Tower, the famous Queen Street, and the Auckland Art Gallery.
In addition to these highlights, our tour offers a variety of options for you to choose from. You can immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Auckland by visiting attractions such as The All Blacks Experience, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, or the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Alternatively, from November to April, you can opt for a visit to Waiheke Island for a delightful wine and dine experience amidst stunning scenery. With so many choices, your first-day experience in New Zealand is sure to be unforgettable.
Day 2 - Hot Water Beach in Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand is a stunningly beautiful region known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and geothermal wonders. One of its most famous attractions is Hot Water Beach, a unique destination where visitors can experience the rare phenomenon of hot water bubbling up through the sand.
The hot springs that feed the beach are situated underground, and when the tide is low, visitors can dig shallow pools in the sand and enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural thermal waters.
The water temperature can reach as high as 64°C (147°F) in some areas, making it perfect for a soothing soak, especially on cooler days.
During our journey, we'll explore the scenic treasures of the Coromandel Peninsula, from idyllic beaches to secret walks. After that, depending on the sea's tide, we will dig into the natural geothermal sands of Hot Water Beach for a warm bath, looking out into the coast and the sunset.
Day 3 - Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga
Hop onto a captivating two-hour journey, Glass Bottom Boat in Whitianga, New Zealand.
Experience the beauty of Cathedral Cove with its pristine sandy beaches, native trees, and awe-inspiring rock formations.
Explore the volcanic coastline featuring dramatic cliffs, towering pinnacles, and intriguing sea caves like Orua Sea cave.
Peer through the glass panels to observe a diverse array of marine life, including red snapper, leatherjackets, and schools of demoiselles and blue mau mau. Delve into the kelp forest to spot stingrays, crayfish, and octopus.
Above the surface, keep a lookout for blue penguins, sea birds, and marine mammals such as dolphins, orca, and seals.
Following the boat ride, your guide will unveil the Coromandel's hidden gems, leading you to enchanting forest trails and secluded golden sand beaches.
Day 4 - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Rotorua Skyline Restaurant
Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Hobbiton, as you tour the charming village in the picturesque Waikato region.
Discover hobbit houses and enjoy tales of the filming process before concluding with a toast at the Green Dragon Inn.
Following your visit to Hobbiton, we'll journey to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal capital.
Your guide will accompany you as you discover captivating geothermal wonders, from sulfur springs and mud pools to geysers and sinter terraces.
As evening time emerges, indulge in a memorable dining experience at Rotorua's iconic Skyline Restaurant.
Relax and enjoy stunning views from the gondola as you ascend to the Skyline complex. The restaurant awaits to tantalize your taste buds with delicious New Zealand cuisine.
Day 5 - Rotorua: Agrodome, Redwood Treewalk & Maori Culture
Begin your journey with a visit to the Agrodome, where you'll explore the farm and enjoy interactive agricultural experiences.
Afterward, immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of the Redwood Trees with a walk among the towering 120-year-old giants.
Conclude the day by immersing yourself in the Mitai Maori Cultural Experience and savoring a traditional Maori Hangi Dinner, offering a taste of authentic indigenous cuisine, before retiring for the night in Rotorua, filled with memories of a day well spent.
Day 6 - Taupo (Fly 'N Raft!)
Seeking a dash of adventure? Climb aboard Taupo's Floatplane for a scenic flight along the expansive Lake Taupo, admiring the scenery of New Zealand's largest lake.
Touch down at the southern end and entrust yourself to the expertise of Tongariro's premier white water rafting operator, who will navigate you through the exhilarating rapids of the Tongariro River.
This thrilling two-and-a-half-hour rafting journey unveils some of New Zealand's most pristine landscapes, unreachable by any other mode of transport.
Day 7 - Wellington, The Capital of New Zealand
Embark on an exciting day trip to Wellington by taking a domestic flight from Taupo. In Wellington, immerse yourself in the vibrant urban atmosphere, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Explore the heart of our democracy with visits to iconic landmarks such as Parliament House, the Parliamentary Library, the Beehive (also known as the Executive Wing), and Bowen House.
These buildings serve as the cornerstone of our democratic governance, offering insights into the nation's political heritage and significance. Discover these institutions' rich history and architecture as you delve into the political hub of Wellington.
Pleased with the itinerary thus far?
Ensure your place today to start on a magical journey through New Zealand with the guidance of a friendly local tour guide.
Day 8 - Interislander Ferry & Winery Tours with 2-course Lunch
Embark on an enchanting journey from Wellington to Picton aboard a scenic ferry ride, crossing the breathtaking waters that separate the North and South Islands of New Zealand.
Upon arrival in Picton, our adventure continues as we venture to Blenheim, renowned for producing some of New Zealand's finest wines.
We will spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes of Marlborough and visit a selection of the region’s very best wineries. Enjoy a tasting session of local wines, and a delicious 2-course lunch.
Day 9 - Kaikoura
After our unforgettable experiences in Blenheim, we'll set off on the next leg of our journey to the captivating coastal town of Kaikoura.
Here, we'll embark on an exhilarating flight to witness the majestic whales that grace the waters off the Kaikoura coast, an awe-inspiring sight not to be missed.
Additionally, we'll explore the rugged shoreline where numerous seals bask in the sun, providing a glimpse into the rich marine life of the area.
For seafood enthusiasts, we'll have the option to indulge in the renowned New Zealand crayfish, a delicacy that perfectly captures the essence of the region's culinary delights. In Kaikoura, adventure, nature, and gastronomy converge to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Day 10 - Explore Christchurch City!
Experience the best of Christchurch with our unique tour that combines tranquil punting along the Avon River with a scenic drive to the iconic Port Hills.
Glide along the river, surrounded by lush greenery, then venture to the summit of Port Hills for panoramic views of Christchurch and beyond.
Enhance your adventure by adding a tram ride option, where you can choose between a fine dining experience or a leisurely ride circling the city, offering a new perspective on this charming destination (additional price applies).
Whether you seek serenity or adventure, this tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in one unforgettable experience.
Day 11 - Tekapo & Star Gazing at Mt. John Observatory
Experience the renowned beauty of New Zealand's iconic Lake Tekapo, renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters embraced by majestic mountains.
Our itinerary includes a visit to the historic Church of the Good Shepherd and leisurely walks in the middle of the picturesque surroundings.
As night falls, observe the stars at Mount John Observatory, where knowledgeable guides will lead you on an exploration of space using powerful telescopes.
Witness awe-inspiring phenomena such as nebulae, galaxies, and constellations against the backdrop of the darkened sky. The Milky Way resembles a luminous river of stars, adding to the enchantment of the experience.
As an alternative, you can opt for the combined experience of stargazing and soaking in the hot pool. Begin by stargazing with the telescope (not within the private observatory dome), then transition to the hot pool, where you can continue to gaze up at the stars while enjoying a relaxing soak.
Day 12 - Aoraki / Mt. Cook
We are set to journey from Lake Tekapo to Mt. Cook. Upon arrival, we'll embark on Glacier Explorers to uncover the beauty of Tasman Glacial Lake and witness New Zealand's grandest glacier.
Following this, we'll indulge in a helicopter excursion, touching down on the alpine terrain.
You have the choice to extend your stay in Mt. Cook for an additional day, allowing for a guided tour of Hooker Valley Walk. Here, you'll be captivated by the stunning mountains and glacial river scenery.
Day 13 - Queenstown
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Aoraki (Mt. Cook) to Queenstown, where every moment is a discovery of natural wonders and rich history. As we wind our way through the scenic route, marvel at the surreal beauty of the clay cliffs before we venture into the charming streets of Arrowtown.
Upon arriving in Queenstown, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere and delve into its fascinating history.
Then, elevate your experience with a Gondola ride offering panoramic views, followed by an exquisite dining experience at Stratosfare Restaurant, where culinary delights meet breathtaking scenery.
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