Essence of New Zealand

Day 01: Arrive Christchurch 

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Once you’ve arrived in Christchurch, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing before enjoying a Signature Experience, followed by a welcome dinner. 

Signature Experience – Tram Ride Through Christchurch

Step aboard a beautifully restored heritage tram and embark on a private tour of Christchurch. Enjoy drinks and canapés as you spot many of the city’s iconic sights. You’ll also learn about the regeneration of this vibrant city following the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes.

Stay:  Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Daily: Dinner

Day 2: Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/ Mt Cook

Today, you’ll traverse the Canterbury plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Later, venture into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience and then embark on a sightseeing activity of your choice. 

Signature Experience – Aoraki/Mount Cook

Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Dine at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant this evening, indulging in a delicious seasonal menu that incorporates the finest local ingredients. 

Freedom of Choice – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Visit the state-of-the-art Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the history of the iconic surrounding region. The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the famous mountaineer and explorer Sir Edmund Hillary and his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook. 

Freedom of Choice – Stargazing

Experience the magic of the night sky in one of the world’s best stargazing locations. Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, learn all about the stars of the southern sky with an expert astronomer.  

Freedom of Choice – Glacier Explorer Cruise

Step aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier - New Zealand’s largest glacier. Surrounded by the dramatic alpine landscape of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you’ll glide across the milky-blue waters while learning about the glacier’s history, geology, and ongoing changes.

Stay: Aoraki/Mount Cook, The Hermitage Hotel, in a room with alpine views

Daily:·  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Aoraki Mt Cook, Dunedin

Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders. Arrive in Dunedin late afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner.

Stay: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Dunedin, Te Anau

This morning, discover the history of Larnach Castle and its beautiful gardens on a guided tour. Situated on the stunning Otago Peninsula, it is New Zealand’s only castle and dates back to 1871. Afterwards, enjoy breathtaking scenery as you travel to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. Tonight, a sensational Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Taste of Fiordland Dinner

Delight in a delectable Taste of Fiordland dinner this evening at the exceptional MacKinnon Restaurant & Explorer Bar. With a menu that has been carefully crafted to showcase the South Island’s regional cuisine, you’ll savour mouth-watering local fare made from the finest artisan produce.

Stay: Two Nights, Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Te Anau

FREEDOM OF CHOICE™

Perhaps you may like to explore an underground network of limestone caves, magically lit by thousands of glow worms. Alternatively, set off on an inspiring wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound; or take an exciting jet boat ride along the Upper Waiau River to get the heart pumping.

Waking in Te Anau this morning, decide how to spend your day thanks to our range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer.

Daily: Breakfast

Day 6: Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown

This morning, travel through the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys as you wind down the Milford Road. Continue your journey into Fiordland National Park and arrive at Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where you will cruise along the full length of the fiord during a spectacular Signature Experience. Afterwards, Queenstown awaits. 

Signature Experience – Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise

A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above. 

Stay: Three Nights, Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Queenstown

Today, discover Queenstown your own way with an included Freedom of Choice sightseeing activity. Later, choose where to enjoy dinner with our Freedom of Choice dining options and savour the tantalising tastes of New Zealand’s celebrated South Island.

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – 'The Lord of the Rings’ 4WD Safari

Discover why this beautiful landscape was chosen to portray Middle-earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' on this sensational 4WD safari. Visit several breathtaking locations where the iconic motion picture trilogy was filmed. 

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Wine Tour

Embark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries. 

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Skippers Canyon

Enjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way. 

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Million Dollar Cruise

Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life, as well as enormous trout that swim in the lake’s waters. 

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Dart River Wilderness Jet

A wilderness jet boat journey on the glacier-fed Dart River takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, which is part of the larger World Heritage Site of Te Wahipounamu. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history.

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Best of Queenstown

Gaze in wonder at the beauty of New Zealand’s adventure capital on this spectacular tour. Take in panoramic views of Queenstown, wander through the historic charm of Arrowtown and visit Ayrburn, Queenstown's newest and most delicious destination. To top it all off, enjoy a wine tasting and cheese platter at a local winery.

Freedom of Choice – Walter Peak

Cruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner featuring succulent meats expertly prepared on the rotisserie and grill, vegetables, a selection of salads and bread. And be sure to leave room for dessert. 

Freedom of Choice – Stratosfare Restaurant

Take a magical gondola ride up to the Stratosfare Restaurant on Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown. Feast on an extensive range of New Zealand and international cuisines while enjoying uninterrupted views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. 

Freedom of Choice – Fergburger

This cult burger house achieved worldwide fame in 2015 when its burgers were crowned the world's best in a travel article on the website of news giant CNN. The best burgers in New Zealand, no doubt. The world? You be the judge. 

Freedom of Choice – Finz Restaurant

Finz Seafood & Grill offers casual, relaxed waterfront dining right in the heart of Queenstown. Finz is a bustling bistro, where you can enjoy fresh seafood daily and other dishes in a fabulous location. 

Freedom of Choice – Your Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a contemporary fusion of local and international cuisine at your hotel. 

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Queenstown

Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city.

Daily: Breakfast

Day 9: Queenstown, Franz Josef

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Skirt the shores of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea before crossing Haast Pass on your journey to Franz Josef/Waiau where a Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Franz Josef/Waiau 

Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery, before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience. 

Stay: Franz Josef, Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Daily Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Franz Josef, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Board New Zealand’s famous TranzAlpine train to experience one of the world’s greatest rail journeys.

Travel to Arthur’s Pass to ride the celebrated TranzAlpine Train. Enjoy stunning views from the open-air viewing platform as you pass by the striking patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains, through deep gorges and river valleys. Follow the Waimakariri River and travel across the Southern Alps all the way to Christchurch.

Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Daily: Breakfast

Day 11: Christchurch, Kaikoura, Blenheim

This morning, follow the east coast to Kaikoura, before traversing the Marlborough region to Blenheim. Tonight, enjoy a Signature Experience, where local chefs will present each dish before you, showcasing superb local artisan produce, perfectly paired with wines from the region.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Indulge in the finest flavours as you savour a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. The well-paired fusion of quality produce and multi-ethnic influences have helped shape New Zealand's food and wine culture as among the best in the world.

Stay: Two Nights, Blenheim, Scenic Hotel Marlborough or similar

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12: Blenheim, Picton, Interislander Ferry, Wellington

After an enriching Signature Experience in the Marlborough region this morning, embark on a scenic ferry ride to the North Island during another Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Allan Scott Family Winemakers

Allan Scott Family Winemakers is a family-owned winery nestled in the heart of the Marlborough region’s famed ‘Golden Mile’ on Jacksons Road, which stretches from Rapaura to Renwick. Enjoy a wine tasting followed by a shared banquet lunch, then relish time to wander through the spectacular gardens that surround the cellar door.

Signature Experience – Interislander Ferry to Wellington

Take the iconic Interislander ferry from Picton on the South Island to Wellington on the North Island. Enjoy stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds before cruising across Cook Strait and into the serene waters of Wellington Harbour. 

Enjoy your selected sightseeing activity.

Daily: Breakfast

Day 13: Wellington

After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour of Wellington’s best-loved landmarks and sights, including Mount Victoria, the waterfront area, and entry into Te Papa Museum for an insight into New Zealand's history, rich culture, unique wildlife, and Māori traditions.

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Stay: InterContinental Wellington

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: Wellington, Napier

Today, you'll drive through the Kāpiti Coast en route to the renowned wine region of Hawke's Bay, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. Continue to the coastal city of Napier, celebrated for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture. Explore the charming streetscapes, unique boutiques, and seaside atmosphere that make Napier one of New Zealand’s most distinctive destinations.

Signature Experience – Craggy Range Winery Tour and Tasting

Explore Craggy Range Winery, a family-owned estate nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, renowned for its world class wines and stunning vineyard setting. Enjoy a guided tour with wine tasting, and a delicious two-course lunch paired with their fine wines.

Stay: Napier, Scenic Te Pania Hotel

Daily: Breakfast , Dinner

Day 15: Napier, Taupo, Rotorua

Today, journey through Esk Valley and Te Pōhue, stopping at the charming town of Taupō. Later, travel to Rotorua and enjoy a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Te Pā Tū

Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

Stay: Two Nights: Pullman Rotorua

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 16: Rotorua

This morning, discover the beauty of Rotorua as you enjoy your chosen sightseeing activity. The evening is yours at leisure to explore further. 

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Rotorua Icons

Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show, before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.

Freedom of Choice Sightseeing – Eco-Thermal Tour

Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.

Freedom of Choice – Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa

Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey. The 7-step multisensory process combines Māori culture and traditional healing practices, with the therapeutic elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam.

Daily: Breakfast

Day 17: Rotorua, Auckland

FREEDOM OF CHOICE™

This morning, travel through the dairy farming region of Waikato to Auckland. Upon arrival, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise

Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat. 

Freedom of Choice – All Blacks Experience

Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story. 

Freedom of Choice – Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Wētā Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit’ are created. 

Freedom of Choice – Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo

At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species. 

Freedom of Choice – Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure

Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland’s wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest’s unique plants and wildlife. 

Stay: Crowne Plaza Auckland

Daily:·Breakfast, Dinner

Day 18: Auckland, Bay of Islands

Cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Parry Kauri Park to view the large kauri trees and soak up the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands.

Stay: Two Nights, Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

Daily: Breakfast

Day 19: Bay of Islands

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Today starts with a Signature Experience, where you will be immersed in the spectacular Bay of Islands region on a cruise. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to explore further before a farewell dinner.

Signature Experience – Bay of Islands Cruise

Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. 

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 20: Bay of Islands, Depart Auckland

After breakfast, travel to Auckland where your New Zealand adventure concludes. We say goodbye before we transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Daily: Breakfast