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30-Day Ultimate Explorer Tour of New Zealand

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Overview

From Cape Reinga, the tip of New Zealand all the way south to Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, this 30-day tour has something for everyone!

You'll begin your adventure in Auckland, where you travel north to the beautiful Bay of Islands. From there, you will gradually journey south, enjoying an amazing range of included activities all the way.

The many highlights of the North Island include snorkelling in the Coromandel Peninsula, a scenic flight in the Bay of Islands and a wine tour in the Hawkes Bay.

In the south, there is plenty of adventure and multiple wildlife encounters, including penguins, whale watching in Kaikoura, and seals to name a few of the unique creatures you'll meet.
Outdoors & Nature
Sightseeing
Culture & Arts
Adventure
Beach & Sea
Food & Drink
Cruising
Wellness

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Auckland!

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Welcome to Auckland!

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    CityLife Auckland4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    AucklandOptional Activity

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    Transportations

    Private Driver from Auckland Airport to Auckland

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    Destinations

    Auckland

  • notes icon
    Notes

    Once you touch down in New Zealand, your detailed tour pack will be hand-delivered by one of the trusted representatives. The pack contains everything you need for the duration of your stay. It will include a comprehensive, printed and bound version of your itinerary as well as clear driving instructions and maps for each leg of your journey. It also contains all the reservation details for your accommodation and activities - along with relevant brochures and information. While in New Zealand, you'll have 24-hour support.

Day 2

Explore the City of Auckland & Optional Tour to Rangitoto Island

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Explore the City of Auckland & Optional Tour to Rangitoto Island

This morning, you'll pick up your rental car and then spend the day exploring Auckland. Sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests give way to a vibrant urban culture, humming with life. Spend time in the Viaduct Harbour, try your hand at sailing an America’s Cup yacht, or take the ferry to nearby Waiheke Island for a gourmet food and wine experience. From the top of Auckland's highest volcano, Mt Eden, take in soaring views of the gulf, or lose yourself in one of the national parks.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    CityLife Auckland4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Explore Auckland

    Harbour Cruise with Explore with Lunch/DinnerOptional Activity

    Fullers Rangitoto Volcanic ExplorerOptional Activity

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    Destinations

    Auckland

  • notes icon
    Notes

    This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in the fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

Day 3

Scenic Drive from Auckland to Paihia & Optional Visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds

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Scenic Drive from Auckland to Paihia & Optional Visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The drive from Auckland to the Bay Of Islands takes around 3.5 hours, giving yourself some leeway for stops. As you go through Puhoi, you'll take in the bohemian atmosphere of this historical township. You can stop for a breath of fresh salty air in Whangarei and take another break at Kawakawa - home to the world-famous Hundertwasser toilets. You'll enjoy the native bush surrounds and marvel at the endless golden beaches as you arrive into central Bay Of The Islands, Paihia.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Sea Spray Suites4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Waitangi Treaty GroundsOptional Activity

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    Transportations

    Rental Car from Auckland to Paihia

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    Destinations

    Auckland

    Paihia

    Waitangi

Day 4

Explore the Bay of Islands on Multiple Optional Tours

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Explore the Bay of Islands on Multiple Optional Tours

Commonly known as the winterless north, New Zealand's Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls renowned for their untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate. Today, you can explore this area on an optional tour should you wish. You can let the driver of the Dune Rider vehicle immerse you in the culture and history of the area while taking in the amazing scenery. Alternatively, you can take to the skies on a scenic flight or you can go on a dolphin cruise!

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Sea Spray Suites4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Dolphin Cruise Hole in the Rock with Fullers GreatSightsOptional Activity

    Cape Reinga Scenic Flight and Guided Tour

    Dune Rider to Cape Reinga with ExploreOptional Activity

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    Destinations

    Paihia

    Russell

    Cape Reinga

Day 5

Scenic Drive along the Coast from Bay of Islands to Snells Beach

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Scenic Drive along the Coast from Bay of Islands to Snells Beach

From the Bay of Islands, you will head west for the wilder shores of Hokianga and the Tasman Sea. Small towns, Omapere and Opononi, are reminiscent of days gone by with a vintage seaside feel and are the perfect place to stop. You'll head south into Waipoua Forest, home to giant Kauri trees. You'll then backtrack cross-country to the Matakohe Kauri Museum, an award-winning museum before you continue on the road to Snells Beach, a lovely township close to Warkworth.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Snells Beach Motel4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Waipoua ForestOptional Activity

    Kauri MuseumOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Bay Of Islands to Snells Beach

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    Destinations

    Paihia

    Waipoua Kauri Forest

    Matakohe

    Snells Beach

Day 6

Journey from Snells Beach to Whitianga via Coromandel

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Journey from Snells Beach to Whitianga via Coromandel

Today you will leave Snells beach, driving from Warkworth and passing through Auckland. As you leave the city boundaries, you'll note a change in the landscape to lush rolling farmland. You'll cross the Hauraki Plains, go through the Thames Estuary and arrive at the coast at the town of Coromandel. Here, you can visit the Driving Creek Railway & Potteries and enjoy a one-hour EyeFull Tower Tour before continuing your drive to Whitianga via the scenic coastline of Whangapoua and Kuaotuna.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Aotearoa Lodge & Conference Centre3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Cathedral Cove

    Driving Creek Railway & Potteries - EyeFull Tower Tour

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Snells Beach to Coromandel

    Rental Car from Coromandel to Whitianga

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    Destinations

    Snells Beach

    New Zealand

    Coromandel

    Whitianga

Day 7

Explore Whitianga

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Explore Whitianga

Today, you'll have the day free to explore Whitianga located on the eastern coast of the Coromandel peninsular. Captain Cook arrived there in 1769 to observe the transit of Mercury and hence the bay was named. You can visit the Whitianga museum, housed in the old dairy factory, its many cafes and craft shops and the famous Hot Water Beach. On the other side of the harbour is Australasia's oldest stone wharf from where a passenger ferry takes visitors to the delightful Cooks Beach.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Aotearoa Lodge & Conference Centre3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Explore WhitiangaOptional Activity

    Hot Water BeachOptional Activity

    Cathedral Cove Scenic Cruises - Coves, Caves and Coastline

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    Destinations

    Whitianga

    Hot Water Beach

Day 8

Scenic Drive from Whitianga to Rotorua via Tauranga

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Scenic Drive from Whitianga to Rotorua via Tauranga

Heading south from the Coromandel Peninsula, you'll pass through the seaside town of Whangamata, home to one of the best beaches in the region. Next, you come to the old mining town of Waihi and the Goldfields Railway. The route then takes you into the Bay of Plenty and the port town of Tauranga before you head along the scenic Pyes Pa Road to Rotorua. Lord of the Rings fans will want to stop in Matamata for a Hobbiton tour and those interested in Maori culture should visit Te Puia.

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    Accommodation

    Silver Fern Accommodation Rotorua5 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Hobbiton Movie SetOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Whitianga to Rotorua

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    Destinations

    Whitianga

    Matamata

    Rotorua

Day 9

Free Day in Rotorua Discovering Maori Culture & Nature Adventures

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Free Day in Rotorua Discovering Maori Culture & Nature Adventures

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to one of the Maori Villages should be high on your agenda. You can spike your adrenaline at Velocity Valley Adventure Park on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving. Alternatively, you can head to Rainbow Springs and National Kiwi Hatchery to see New Zealand's national animal.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Silver Fern Accommodation Rotorua5 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Rainbow Springs Nature Park & National Kiwi Hatchery Combo TourOptional Activity

    Explore RotoruaOptional Activity

    Rotorua Canopy Tours

    Te Puia

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    Destinations

    Rotorua

Day 10

Scenic Drive from Rotorua to Napier through Geothermal Region

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Scenic Drive from Rotorua to Napier through Geothermal Region

This drive will take you through the thermal region south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers. You'll then continue on to Taupo and marvel at the lake - a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the city, be sure to stop at Huka Falls. In Hawke's Bay, you have the option to head out on a half-day wine tour and visit some of the most famous wineries.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Bella Vista Motel Napier4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal WonderlandOptional Activity

    Huka FallsOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Rotorua to Napier

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    Destinations

    Rotorua

    Waikato

    Wairakei

    Napier

Day 11

Explore Napier & Hawke's Bay Wineries

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Explore Napier & Hawke's Bay Wineries

Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, surrounding wineries and local fresh produce. Supported by a Mediterranean climate, a full day can be taken visiting Ocean Spa hot pools and swimming complex, the Hawke's Bay Museum and the National Aquarium of New Zealand. You can also discover the delights of Hawke's Bay on a five-hour afternoon winery tour visiting four local wineries including the oldest vineyard in New Zealand.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Bella Vista Motel Napier4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Explore Napier & Hawke's BayOptional Activity

    Hawke's Bay Wine Experience Half-Day Tour

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    Destinations

    Napier

    Te Haroto

    Crownthorpe

Day 12

Drive from Napier to Martinborough & Half-Day Wine Tour

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Drive from Napier to Martinborough & Half-Day Wine Tour

As you leave the rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay, you'll be greeted with some of the country's richest dairy farmland in the Manawatu Gorge. Continue on through the Wairarapa region and stop in the Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre, where you can see some of New Zealand native animals. As you drive south, a visit to historic Greytown is a must-do. Leaving state highway 2, you will cross over the Ruamahanga River into Martinborough wine country - your destination for the day.

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    Accommodation

    The Claremont Motel and Apartments Martinborough4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Martinborough Half-Day Wine TourOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Napier to Martinborough

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    Destinations

    Napier

    Martinborough

Day 13

Travel Over the Rimutaka Ranges from Martinborough to Wellington

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Travel Over the Rimutaka Ranges from Martinborough to Wellington

Today, your New Zealand vacation will cross the Rimutaka Ranges as you make your way to New Zealand's capital city, Wellington. Often compared to Melbourne, Wellington is a vibrant cultural hub. At one kilometre squared, the city centre (easily traversed on foot) has an international feel and is peppered with underground art shows, alleyway cafes and New York-style delis. Take in the boardwalk view as you stroll to Te Papa Museum or indulge your cinematic side exploring Weta Workshop.

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    Accommodation

    Bella Vista Motel Wellington3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Free Time in WellingtonOptional Activity

    Te Papa TongarewaOptional Activity

    Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary Night Tour

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Martinborough to Wellington

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    Destinations

    Martinborough

    Wellington

Day 14

Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton & Scenic Drive to Abel Tasman

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Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton & Scenic Drive to Abel Tasman

Today you'll cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry, cruising through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds. This journey to Picton takes around three hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. From Picton, you'II first travel the Marlborough sounds coastline between Picton and Havelock. You'll continue on over the Bryant Range to arrive into Tasman Bay and the city of Nelson with Motueka just another 45 minutes along the coast.

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    Accommodation

    Abel Tasman Ocean View Chalets3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton

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    Transportations

    Rental Car from Picton to Mārahau

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    Destinations

    Wellington

    Marahau

  • notes icon
    Notes

    You'll leave your rental car in Wellington.

    Once in Picton, you'll pick up your rental car. This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in the fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

Day 15

Explore the Blue Waters & Spot the Seals of Abel Tasman National Park

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Explore the Blue Waters & Spot the Seals of Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park, known for its coastal hiking track, has an abundance of golden beaches, inlets and private lagoons. The park has a mild climate and is a special place to visit at any time of the year. Why not enjoy a scenic cruise through the Sounds or take a kayaking tour around its many sheltered bays? Relax to the melodious birdsong and get up close to some of the park’s many animal residents, including native bats, geckos, birds and marine mammals - fur seals and dolphins.

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    Accommodation

    Abel Tasman Ocean View Chalets3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Beaches, Bays and Seals Guided Sea Kayaking Trip including Picnic Lunch

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    Destinations

    Marahau

    Abel Tasman National Park

Day 16

Scenic Drive from Abel Tasman National Park to Kaikoura

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Scenic Drive from Abel Tasman National Park to Kaikoura

Today, you will drive through Marlborough to Blenheim, New Zealand's largest wine-growing region - and home to many award-winning wines. It is recommended to time your day to arrive for lunch with a view to sampling some of the local offerings at one of the 40 plus wineries surrounding the area. Then, you'll continue over the dry hills of the Marlborough Ranges to one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world, Kaikoura.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    The White Morph4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Marlborough Wine RegionOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Mārahau to Kaikōura

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    Destinations

    Marahau

    Waihopai Valley

    Kaikoura

Day 17

Whale Watching in Kaikoura

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Whale Watching in Kaikoura

The Kaikoura Coast is renowned for its abundant marine life, and this is a huge visitor drawcard. Today, you'll begin the day with an optional whale watching in Kaikoura tour. Whale Watch Kaikoura offer a once-in-a-lifetime, up-close encounter with giant sperm whales. You are also likely to encounter New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins and albatross. Depending on the season you may also see pilot, blue and southern right whales as well as migrating humpbacks.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    The White Morph4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Whale Watch Kaikōura

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    Destinations

    Kaikoura

Day 18

Scenic Drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch

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Scenic Drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch

Today, you'll travel down the coast before heading inland through the North Canterbury wine region to Christchurch. If you have time on your hands, it is recommended that you take a detour to Hanmer Springs for a relaxing dip in its thermal pools. Arriving in Christchurch, you'll see a new and improved city, steadily rising from the ruins of the 2011 earthquake.

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    Accommodation

    Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    Hanmer SpringsOptional Activity

    ChristchurchOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Kaikoura to Christchurch

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    Destinations

    Kaikoura

    Hanmer Springs

    Christchurch

Day 19

Explore Christchurch City

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Explore Christchurch City

You'll have the day free to spend as you wish, exploring Christchurch. You can make use of the Hop On Hop Off Christchurch Sightseeing bus to explore the key attractions of the city and its surrounds. Alternatively, you can head to the International Antarctic Centre or even head out on a Christchurch Grand Tour on a luxury coach with an interactive guide. If you prefer to explore on your own, then taking the Christchurch Gondola for a brilliant view of the city won't disappoint.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
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    Activities

    ChristchurchOptional Activity

    Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour 24-Hour PassOptional Activity

    International Antarctic CentreOptional Activity

    Christchurch Gondola

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Christchurch

Day 20

Scenic Drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook National Park

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Scenic Drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook National Park

This morning, you'll drive to Mount Cook National Park. On arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free to spend as you wish. A great suggested activity is to experience 500-year-old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake on the Glacier Explorers tour. You'll see towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat which provides a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier - The Tasman.

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    Accommodation

    Mt Cook Lodge and Motel3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Lake TekapoOptional Activity

    Glacier Explorers Mount Cook

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Christchurch to The Hermitage Hotel

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    Destinations

    Christchurch

    Lake Tekapo

    Canterbury

Day 21

Follow the Waitaki River South from Mount Cook to Dunedin

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Follow the Waitaki River South from Mount Cook to Dunedin

Leaving the MacKenzie Country today, you'll follow the Waitaki River to the coast, where you'll turn south for Dunedin. Today you'll leave Mt Cook National Park and travel past Twizel, one of the locations for the Lord of the Rings films. Driving through the Waitaki Valley, you'll head towards the east coast. Continue south down the coast to Moeraki. As you arrive in Dunedin, take in the city’s Edwardian and Scottish heritage reflected in the buildings around the city centre - The Octagon.

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    Accommodation

    Motel On York4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    OmaramaOptional Activity

    Moeraki Boulders BeachOptional Activity

    DunedinOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Christchurch to Dunedin

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    Destinations

    Canterbury

    Omarama

    Hampden

    Dunedin

Day 22

Explore the Wildlife of Otago Peninsula

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Explore the Wildlife of Otago Peninsula

Known as the Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin city has a heavy Scottish influence. Renowned for its Flemish Baroque-inspired ‘gingerbread house’ Railway Station, this university town is bustling with life. You may want to take a half-day tour of the Otago Peninsula and its unique wildlife including a cruise through Dunedin Harbour. A unique environment, this tour includes a visit to The Penguin Place to view the rare and unique yellow-eyed penguin.

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    Accommodation

    Motel On York4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Monarch Wildlife Cruise

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Dunedin

Day 23

Scenic Drive from Dunedin to Te Anau & Glowworm Caves Tour

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Scenic Drive from Dunedin to Te Anau & Glowworm Caves Tour

The drive from Dunedin to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farmland scenery but if you want to spend the whole day exploring a little off the beaten path, taking the Southern Scenic Route through The Catlins is highly recommended. Upon arrival, you'll have the option to head to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves for a cruise through the inner caves to admire the incredible scene of millions of glowworms lighting up the cavity.

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    Accommodation

    Lakefront Lodge Te Anau4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Te Anau Glowworm CavesOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Dunedin to Te Anau

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    Destinations

    Dunedin

    Te Anau

    Fiordland National Park

Day 24

Journey to Milford Sound for the Day

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Journey to Milford Sound for the Day

Today, you'll make the beautifully scenic journey to Milford Sound. You'll get up close and personal with Milford Sound on a leisurely two-hour cruise of this spectacular fiord. From thundering waterfalls to sky-high mountains to lush rainforests, Milford has it all. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces. Informative, participative and relaxed, this is the perfect way to experience Milford Sound to the fullest.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Lakefront Lodge Te Anau4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Milford SoundOptional Activity

    Milford Sound Cruise with Real Journeys

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Te Anau to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

    Rental Car from Milford Sound / Piopiotahi to Te Anau

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Te Anau

    New Zealand

    Southland

Day 25

Scenic Drive from Te Anau to Queenstown

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Scenic Drive from Te Anau to Queenstown

Today, you'll cross vast tussock lands on your way to Queenstown. You'll pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of the nation. You'll then continue on through the Southland countryside where the road begins to hug the lake edge and the Remarkables Mountain Range towers over your approach into the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. You'll spend the day exploring Queenstown and its surroundings.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Blue Peaks Apartments3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Explore Queenstown & Its SurroundsOptional Activity

    Skyline Queenstown Gondola RideOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Te Anau to Queenstown

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    Destinations

    Te Anau

    Queenstown

Day 26

Dart River Wilderness Jet

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Dart River Wilderness Jet

Today, you'll venture deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, where myth, heritage and fantasy come to life with the Wilderness Jet Dart River journey! Here, accompanied by your expert guide, you can experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet boat with exciting 360-degree spins along the way.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Blue Peaks Apartments3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Dart River Wilderness Jet Journeys

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Queenstown

    Otautau

Day 27

Drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier

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Drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier

From Queenstown, you'll cross the Crown Range –the highest sealed road in New Zealand– to the Alpine town of Wanaka. Skirting the shores of Lake Wanaka and Hawea, you will enter Makarora. Stop at Blue Pools for a one-hour walk through native beech forest to a glacier-fed swimming hole. Then through the remote settlement of Haast before heading up the West Coast, a 600-kilometre stretch of bush and rainforest. Fox Glacier welcomes you first, then comes your destination - Franz Josef township.

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    Accommodation

    Aspen Court Franz Josef3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Scenic Drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier

    Blue Pools Walk at MakaroraOptional Activity

    Franz Josef Glacier Hot PoolsOptional Activity

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Queenstown

    Wanaka

    Otago

    Franz Josef Glacier

Day 28

Franz Josef Heli Hike

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Franz Josef Heli Hike

Today, you'll take a scenic flight over all three Franz Josef glacier icefalls. Landing high on the glacier, you'll take a two-hour guided trip through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country. Your guide will choose the route as you go through a wonderland of blue ice and frozen pinnacles. You'll have endless views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest as well as plenty of opportunities to take photographs.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Aspen Court Franz Josef3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Franz Josef Glacier

Day 29

Drive from Franz Josef to Greymouth & Take the TranzAlpine Scenic Train

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Drive from Franz Josef to Greymouth & Take the TranzAlpine Scenic Train

Your drive today takes you north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika, a seaside town dating back to the 1860s. Take in the sea views before moving on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point of the next leg of your journey. You'll drop your rental car at Greymouth Station and board one of the most spectacular trains in the world to Christchurch, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your accommodation.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    HokitikaOptional Activity

    Monteiths Brewery Personalised Bottle & TourOptional Activity

    TranzAlpine Scenic Train Greymouth to Christchurch

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Franz Josef Glacier to Greymouth

    Private Driver from Christchurch to The George

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Franz Josef Glacier

    Hokitika

    Greymouth

    Christchurch

Day 30

Departure from Christchurch

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Departure from Christchurch

This morning, after breakfast, you'll be collected and taken to the airport for your departure flight.

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Christchurch to Christchurch International Airport

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Christchurch

Included in Price

  • 29 nights accommodation
  • 20 activities
  • 2 breakfasts
  • Airport transfer
  • Entrance fees
  • Ground transportation

Not Included in Price

  • Alcohol beverages
  • Domestic flights
  • Entry visas / airport departure tax
  • Gratuities
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Licensed English speaking guides
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Trekking permits
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