This website uses modern construction techniques, which may not render correctly in your old browser.
We recommend updating your browser for the best online experience.

Visit browsehappy.com to help you select an upgrade.

Skip to Content

New Zealand Coastal Expedition with Queenstown Escape

18 day Land and Small ship journey! SAVE up to $5,600 per couple*

Auckland to Queenstown

18 days / 17 nights

Small Ship Cruise

Guided Tour

Dining Included

Cruise & Land Package

Coral Adventurer

Departs 30 Dec 2026

from
$17,495*
per person twin share

Book Now

Download Flyer

Overview

Experience the breathtaking diversity of New Zealand on this 18-day land and small ship journey from Auckland to Queenstown. Begin in the North Island, where you’ll explore the vibrant harbour city of Auckland, wander the rolling green hills of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, and witness Rotorua’s geothermal marvels alongside rich Māori cultural experiences. Then, board your small expedition ship in Wellington and cruise the wild, unforgettable coastline of the South Island. Spot whales off Kaikōura, soak in the charm of Akaroa, and discover the untouched beauty of Stewart Island. In Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder, sail through the spectacular sounds of Dusky, Doubtful and Milford. Conclude your journey in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, surrounded by alpine splendour and offering a fitting finale to this extraordinary exploration.

 One departure only: 30 December 2026 

Inclusions

  • Seven nights in hand-picked accommodation
  • 10 nights aboard Coral Adventurer
  • The services of an APT Tour Director and Driver, plus an APT Cruise Director and expert Expedition Team
  • A total of 33 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages (cruise only)
  • Return airport and cruise transfers, porterage, port charges and tipping
  • Enjoy a two-night stay in Queenstown
  • Freedom of Choice inclusions in two locations
  • Visit New Zealand's World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Welcome to Aotearoa – the Land of the Long White Cloud. On arrival in Auckland, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening getting to know your fellow travellers, before settling in and enjoying the rest of the night at leisure.

Stay: Two Nights, Cordis, Auckland

Day 2 Auckland

This morning, uncover the highlights of Auckland on a guided city sights tour. Later, tailor your day with one of our Freedom of Choice experiences. This evening, ring in the New Year with a celebratory dinner at Eight Restaurant, and relish the unique thrill of welcoming the New Year in one of the first countries in the world to do so.

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 hustle and 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.

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 Auckland, Hobbiton™ Movie Set, Rotorua

Depart Auckland and journey to Rotorua, renowned for its otherworldly geothermal landscapes and vibrant Māori culture. Along the way, enjoy a special Signature Experience that brings movie magic to life.

Signature Experience – Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour and Banquet Lunch

Step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth™ with a guided tour of the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander the 12-acre site with your expert guide, who will share behind-the-scenes stories and point out the most memorable filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Visit the charming hobbit holes, including the famed Bag End, before sitting down to a buffet lunch inside The Party Marquee — complete with roasted meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts, all served in true Shire style.

Stay: Two Nights, Millennium Rotorua

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 Rotorua

Spend the day exploring all Rotorua has to offer. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve. This evening, enjoy a Signature Experience that offers a deeper connection to Māori culture.

Signature Experience – Te Pā Tū

Step into the spirit of Aotearoa at Te Pā Tū, an immersive Māori village experience. Be welcomed with a powerful haka pōwhiri (ceremonial greeting), then enjoy an unforgettable evening of traditional performance, storytelling, and song. As the night unfolds, indulge in canapés, chef-curated aperitifs, and a seasonal three-course feast.

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 Rotorua, Taupō, Wellington

Journey south today towards Wellington, stopping first at Huka Falls to witness the dramatic cascade of water thundering through a narrow gorge. Continue to the shores of Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, set against a stunning volcanic backdrop. Later, arrive in the vibrant capital of Wellington.

Stay: InterContinental Wellington

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 Wellington, Embark Ship

This morning, explore the highlights of New Zealand’s capital on a guided sightseeing tour, taking in iconic landmarks such as Mount Victoria and the vibrant waterfront. Enjoy a scenic ride aboard the historic Wellington Cable Car, offering sweeping views over the city. Later, transfer to the Coral Adventurer, your home for the next 10 nights. Settle into your comfortable cabin, then join your fellow travellers for a relaxed welcome dinner on board as your journey begins.

Stay: 10 Nights, Coral Adventurer

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 Ship Cove/Meretoto

Visit the James Cook memorial at Meretoto/Ship Cove, where he anchored HMS Endeavour in 1770. Continue to nearby Motuara Island for a walk through a wildlife sanctuary rich in birdlife. A gentle stroll along the shoreline offers impressive views of Tōtaranui/Queen Charlotte Sound.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Kaikōura

Kaikōura is a premier destination in New Zealand's South Island for whale watching. From the stable comfort of your catamaran, you have the opportunity to see whales and other marine life in their natural habitat. It's common to see various whale species like sperm, humpback, and pilot whales. Onboard hydrophones offer the extra benefit of hearing the whales communicate with each other. You're also likely to see acrobatic dolphins, playful seals, and elegant wandering albatrosses during this thrilling excursion.

Back on land, embark on a 3.5 kilometre walk over the peninsular track with breath taking scenery throughout the entire route. Along the way, you'll encounter cattle, sheep, spot sea lions and rich bird life. A shuttle bus will meet you at the end of the walk and transfer back to the marina, where your tender vessel will shuttle you back to the ship. Alternatively, enjoy some free time in the township and be transferred back to the ship by tender vessel afterwards.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 Akaroa, Christchurch

From Akaroa port, take a scenic drive to Christchurch, capital of South Island, where you'll explore the charming city at your own pace. Christchurch is New Zealand's second largest city and the city centre is a vibrant spot offering a world-class museum and the renowned Botanic Gardens that are a delight to explore. An unbeatable way to explore the centre is by tram (additional expense). The all-day hop-on hop-off tickets allow you to visit the highlights of the city centre at your leisure, and the knowledgeable drivers provide informative live commentaries along the way.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 Dunedin

 

After a leisurely morning on board, disembark the ship after lunch for a city tour of Dunedin. Visit the local Araiteuru (a community meeting space) to receive a special welcome presentation from a Marae member. The remainder of the tour will include highlights of Dunedin including famous Ovelston House, the marvellous Flemish Renaissance-style Railway Station, Dunedin University, and Baldwin Street – the world's steepest street. Alternatively, enjoy free time to discover the delights of Dunedin at your own pace.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 Stewart Island/Rakiura

Experience a blend of guided discovery and free time to explore Stewart Island at leisure. This serene, remote island is rich in wildlife, where you can discover ancient forests, or choose from various hikes to suit your interests and level of fitness. The island's European heritage comes to life at Oban, a coastal town established by Scottish settlers in the 1840s, while a former whaling station provides links to Norwegian expeditions to Antarctica during the Golden Age of Exploration.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 Dusky Sound/Tamatea

Bask in the splendour of Dusky Sound in the Fiordland National Park, one of New Zealand's treasured natural icons and recognised as part of the wider UNESCO World Heritage site of Te Wāhipounamu (Place of the Greenstone). It's home to glaciers, alpine ranges, and unique flora and fauna.

As you leave Tamatea, secure a place on deck and watch the captain masterfully steer the ship through Acheron Passage, where you can marvel at the breathtaking fjord scenery and wildlife.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 Doubtful Sound/Patea

Find a comfortable place on deck or in the observation lounge, and watch as the captain navigates a narrow passage of the fiord known as 'The Gut' from Thompson Sound into Doubtful Sound.

'Patea' (Doubtful Sound) meaning ‘place of silence’ in Māori, spans a staggering 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the head of the fiord to the Tasman Sea. It is the deepest of New Zealand’s 14 fjords and its enormity leaves all who visit feeling humbled and in awe of its powerful presence. The fjord branches into three arms and offers impressive waterfalls that provide shelter to New Zealand’s southernmost population of bottlenose dolphins and tawaki, the Fiordland crested penguin.

An easy short walk between Deas Cove and Neck Cove offers the chance to see unique local flora and fauna. Alternatively, embark on a thrilling cruise aboard your tender vessel, exploring the coastline of the fjord and hearing tales of local history.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 Milford Sound/Piopiotahi

Deep within Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound, arguably New Zealand’s most famous natural attraction. With its beguiling combination of towering mountain peaks, ink-dark waters and forest-covered cliffs, it mesmerises those who see it. Here, you can enjoy a thrilling excursion aboard your tender vessel to visit thundering waterfalls, or explore the rugged coastline and look for fur seals, dolphins and, perhaps, spot penguins.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15 Day At Sea

Enjoy a day at sea, sailing past remote Te Niho a Kewa (Solander Island), recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International due to its significance as a breeding site for Buller's albatrosses and common diving petrels. New Zealand's southernmost gannet colony also thrives on Solander Island. If conditions and time permits, your skillful captain will endeavour to offer a scenic sailing alongside the island, or perhaps even from the ship's tenders, to provide you with an up-close view of the island's incredible birdlife.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 Disembark Ship, Bluff, Queenstown

Your cruise comes to an end this morning after breakfast, where you disembark in Bluff and be transferred to your accommodation in Queenstown. This evening, choose where to enjoy dinner with a range of Freedom of Choice Dining options available to you.

Freedom of Choice – Walter Peak

Cruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a gourmet barbecue dinner awaits. Savour succulent rotisserie meats, fresh vegetables, artisan salads and breads – and be sure to leave room for the decadent dessert selection.

Freedom of Choice – Stratosfare Restaurant

Ascend by gondola to Bob’s Peak and dine at the iconic Stratosfare Restaurant. With sweeping views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables, enjoy an extensive buffet featuring the best of New Zealand and international cuisine.

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

Stay in and indulge in a relaxed meal at your hotel’s restaurant, where contemporary fusion cuisine showcases the finest local and international flavours.

Stay: Two Nights: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17 Queenstown

Today is yours to explore Queenstown your way, with a range of curated sightseeing experiences to choose from. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner at your hotel.

Freedom of Choice – The Lord of the Rings 4WD Safari

Venture into the heart of Middle-earth™ on an exhilarating 4WD safari. Visit dramatic locations featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies and see for yourself why this breathtaking landscape was chosen for the iconic films.

Freedom of Choice – 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 – 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 – Million Dollar Cruise

Cruise the tranquil, glacial waters of Lake Wakatipu aboard a luxury vessel. Marvel at the surrounding peaks and keep an eye out for native birdlife and the famously large trout beneath the surface.

Freedom of Choice – 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 – 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.

Daily: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 18 Depart Queenstown

Today, your spectacular tour comes to an end. Following breakfast, say goodbye to your fellow travellers and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Daily: Breakfast

Booking terms and conditions apply.

* Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.

Destinations featured in this deal

New Zealand North Island South Island

We just need some details...

Then one of our expert Consultants will get back to you shortly.

Call us
13 11 00
Email us
holidays@pht.com.au
Meet with us
Find your closest branch

Contact Details

Name
Address
Are you an existing client to Phil Hoffmann Travel?
Subscribe
By proceeding I agree to my personal information being handled in accordance with Phil Hoffmann Travel Privacy Policy.