New Zealand in Depth
From city to countryside with spectacular scenery!
Discover New Zealand with this 16-night vacation package! Travel through cities and countryside, take scenic boat cruises, and experience the finest landscapes the country has to offer. You'll stay in a handful of cities and towns as you go, including Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Dunedin, and more! Highlights include a cruise on the Milford Sound, an authentic Maori cultural experience in Rotorua, and a full free day to spend in Queenstown! With many included tours, a travel director guiding the way, and your whole itinerary taken care of, the only thing left to do is start packing!
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Auckland (AKL), out of Christchurch (CHC)
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in Auckland at the VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in Bay of Islands at the Copthorne Resort
- 1 night in Auckland at the VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Ibis Hotel Rotorua
- 1 night in Wellington at the Travelodge Wellington Hotel
- 1 night in Picton at the Beachcomber Hotel
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- 1 night in Omarama at the Heritage Gateway Hotel
- 1 night in Dunedin at the Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- 1 night in Te Anau at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown
- 1 night in Franz Josef at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Bay of Islands sightseeing & cruise through the ‘Hole in the Rock’
- Auckland city tour
- Cruise through the Waitomo Caves & Glowworm Grotto
- Evening concert at the Tamaki Maori Village with dinner
- Tour of Lake Taupo and the Central Plateau
- Wellington city tour
- Christchurch city tour
- Visit to Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
- Milford Sound cruise
- Dinner & show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- TranzAlpine train from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
- Breakfast daily and 11 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Note: Please schedule your arrival flight to arrive no later than 4pm so you don't miss the welcome reception on Day 1!
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
Great Ways to Explore
-
Cruise the Bay of Islands and the Hole in the Rock!
Explore Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, and the amazing coffee culture there.
-
Visit Lake Tekapo and Lake Wakatipu for beautiful views.
-
See the unbelievable Franz Josef glacier.
-
Ride the Tranz Alpine train along one of the most scenic routes in the world.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
This 16-night vacation takes you deep into New Zealand to combine must-see sights with off-the-beaten-path surprises. This whirlwind vacation is sure to leave its mark, as you become so fully immersed in the beauty and splendor of New Zealand!
Your adventure begins in Auckland, followed by a few nights in Bay of Islands. Here, you'll cruise around the islands and through the "Hole in the Rock." Return to Auckland for a city tour before continuing on to Rotorua! This region is known for its Maori Culture, which you'll have the opportunity to experience during a traditional dinner and evening concert! Other tours in Rotorua include a cruise through the Waitomo Caves & Glowworm Grotto, and a tour of Lake Taupo and the Central Plateau!
From Rotorua, continue on to Wellington, Picton, and Christchurch. Discover Wellington and Christchurch through guided sightseeing tours. Enjoy time at leisure in each of these magnificent spots!
Next, you're off to Omarama, Dunedin, and Te Anau. There are a handful of optional excursions available to you in these three destinations, so be sure to consult your travel director!
En route from Te Anau to Queenstown, you'll take a cruise on the Milford Sound. This will surely be a highlight of your trip, as the Sound is filled with spectacular sites and plenty of stunning scenery along the way! Be sure to have your camera at the ready!
Your last three stops are Queenstown, Franz Josef, and Christchurch. Spend a full day at leisure in Queenstown, either by joining an optional excursion or by exploring independently! At night, enjoy dinner and a show at Walter Peak High Country Farm! Franz Josef is a beautiful destination, with rivers of ice and incredible scenery. Consider an optional helicopter flight to get up close to the glaciers and even walk across the ice fall! A scenic train ride takes you back through more amazing scenery before you arrive back in Christchurch for the final night of your trip!
With loads of sightseeing and tours and a travel director leading the way, you will have the stress-free New Zealand vacation of your dreams!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Auckland (AKL), out of Christchurch (CHC)
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in Auckland at the VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in Bay of Islands at the Copthorne Resort
- 1 night in Auckland at the VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Ibis Hotel Rotorua
- 1 night in Wellington at the Travelodge Wellington Hotel
- 1 night in Picton at the Beachcomber Hotel
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- 1 night in Omarama at the Heritage Gateway Hotel
- 1 night in Dunedin at the Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- 1 night in Te Anau at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown
- 1 night in Franz Josef at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Bay of Islands sightseeing & cruise through the ‘Hole in the Rock’
- Auckland city tour
- Cruise through the Waitomo Caves & Glowworm Grotto
- Evening concert at the Tamaki Maori Village with dinner
- Tour of Lake Taupo and the Central Plateau
- Wellington city tour
- Christchurch city tour
- Visit to Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
- Milford Sound cruise
- Dinner & show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- TranzAlpine train from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
- Breakfast daily and 11 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Note: Please schedule your arrival flight to arrive no later than 4pm so you don't miss the welcome reception on Day 1!
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
-
Cruise the Bay of Islands and the Hole in the Rock!
Explore Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, and the amazing coffee culture there.
-
Visit Lake Tekapo and Lake Wakatipu for beautiful views.
-
See the unbelievable Franz Josef glacier.
-
Ride the Tranz Alpine train along one of the most scenic routes in the world.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
This 16-night vacation takes you deep into New Zealand to combine must-see sights with off-the-beaten-path surprises. This whirlwind vacation is sure to leave its mark, as you become so fully immersed in the beauty and splendor of New Zealand!
Your adventure begins in Auckland, followed by a few nights in Bay of Islands. Here, you'll cruise around the islands and through the "Hole in the Rock." Return to Auckland for a city tour before continuing on to Rotorua! This region is known for its Maori Culture, which you'll have the opportunity to experience during a traditional dinner and evening concert! Other tours in Rotorua include a cruise through the Waitomo Caves & Glowworm Grotto, and a tour of Lake Taupo and the Central Plateau!
From Rotorua, continue on to Wellington, Picton, and Christchurch. Discover Wellington and Christchurch through guided sightseeing tours. Enjoy time at leisure in each of these magnificent spots!
Next, you're off to Omarama, Dunedin, and Te Anau. There are a handful of optional excursions available to you in these three destinations, so be sure to consult your travel director!
En route from Te Anau to Queenstown, you'll take a cruise on the Milford Sound. This will surely be a highlight of your trip, as the Sound is filled with spectacular sites and plenty of stunning scenery along the way! Be sure to have your camera at the ready!
Your last three stops are Queenstown, Franz Josef, and Christchurch. Spend a full day at leisure in Queenstown, either by joining an optional excursion or by exploring independently! At night, enjoy dinner and a show at Walter Peak High Country Farm! Franz Josef is a beautiful destination, with rivers of ice and incredible scenery. Consider an optional helicopter flight to get up close to the glaciers and even walk across the ice fall! A scenic train ride takes you back through more amazing scenery before you arrive back in Christchurch for the final night of your trip!
With loads of sightseeing and tours and a travel director leading the way, you will have the stress-free New Zealand vacation of your dreams!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Auckland!
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take time to explore Auckland after you've checked in! Stroll around the area and become acquainted with your first destination, perhaps by soaking up the sun at the Auckland Waterfront district! Tonight, enjoy a welcome reception with your Travel Director and fellow travel companions!
Transfer from Auckland Airport to hotel
Check-in - VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites provides comfortable contemporary accommodations in an excellent location. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms that include free WiFi, a kitchenette, air-conditioning, and more! Latitude 36 serves breakfast and dinner, as well as cocktails to finish a perfect day of exploring. VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites will meet all of your basic needs in a location that simply cannot be beat!
Day 2. Auckland - Bay of Islands
Today you'll depart Auckland and head for Bay of Islands. Travel through the Northland's lush farmland, with stunning scenery along the way! The drive will take approximately three hours.
Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands! Sail through Cape Brett and the famous 'Hole in the Rock' formation! Keep your eyes peeled for marine life as you go! Tonight, dine at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant.
Check-in - Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands
Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is a waterfront hotel located within subtropical gardens on the Waitangi National Trust Reserve. Guest rooms are well-appointed with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, complimentary toiletries, and more. Dine at Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen after a day of sightseeing, and then cap off your night with a cocktail at Jimmy Cook's Bar. Spend free time in the swimming pool, or head to the spa for a luxurious and relaxing treatment. Play some tennis, rent a bicycle, or hop on a shuttle to downtown Paihia for shopping!
Day 3. Bay of Islands
Take today to explore Bay of Islands independently! You have the option of joining additional tours that your Travel Director can help you purchase. Otherwise, feel free to relax at your beautiful hotel!
Day 4. Bay of Islands - Auckland
Today you'll travel back to Auckland. Along the way, enjoy stops at Whangarei and Parry Kauri Park! Whangarei is the northern-most city in New Zealand, filled with galleries and shops near the marina. Parry Kauri Park is a great spot to stroll along the Kauri trees, the forest giants of New Zealand!
Upon arrival at your hotel, spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Check-in - VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites provides comfortable contemporary accommodations in an excellent location. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms that include free WiFi, a kitchenette, air-conditioning, and more! Latitude 36 serves breakfast and dinner, as well as cocktails to finish a perfect day of exploring. VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites will meet all of your basic needs in a location that simply cannot be beat!
Day 5. Auckland - Rotorua
Today begins with an Auckland city tour! Travel to Mission Bay to see Bastion Point and the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial, pass by Waitemata Harbour, and more!
Continue on to follow the trail of the Waikato River to reach the Waitomo Caves. Tour through these caverns and continue on to sail through the Glow Worm Grotto!
After your cruise tour, you'll travel to Rotorua via the King Country region. Upon arrival in Rotorua, you'll take an orientation tour with fantastic views of Lake Rotorua!
Tonight, you'll experience the Tamaki Family Marae, an evening of culture and delicious food! Learn about the ancient forest, Maori art forms, and then take in a concert by local performers! Dinner will be an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground following the traditional method!
Check-in - Ibis Hotel Rotorua
Ibis Hotel Rotorua is situated just a few blocks away from Lake Rotorua. Guests will enjoy comfortable rooms with complimentary toiletries, television, hair dryer, and more. WiFi is available for purchase. The hotel restaurant serves a simple menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located within 15 minutes of the airport and with easy access to local shops and cafes, the Ibis Hotel Rotorua is an excellent choice accommodation.
Day 6. Rotorua
Today you'll explore Rotorua! There are plenty of optional excursions to choose from, and your travel director will be more than happy to assist you in choosing one!
Consider a trip to Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park, a visit to the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve in Te Puia, or visit a Polynesian thermal spa!
Day 7. Rotorua - Wellington
En route to Wellington today, you'll visit Huka Falls and see Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake! Travel along the Kapiti Coast as you make your way to Wellington. Check into your hotel and explore this unique cityscape!
Check-in - Travelodge Wellington Hotel
Travelodge Wellington Hotel is a comfortable, centrally located hotel. Guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the hotel. There is an onsite restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner, in addition to a bar serving coffee and snacks. Guests have access to a fitness center and onsite parking. Wellington's top attractions are nearby, including the Te Papa Museum, Lambton Quay, and Wellington Zoo.
Day 8. Wellington - Picton
Today, you'll be taken on a city sights tour of Wellington! You'll see New Zealand's Parliament buildings and the Museum of New Zealand, pay a visit to Te Papa, and spend free time at leisure. Be sure to visit a cafe to experience Wellington's incredible coffee culture!
Lunch today is provided by a charity organization called "Eat my Lunch." By eating lunch today, you're also giving lunch to a schoolchild in need!
After lunch, you'll board an inter-island cruise to get to the seaside village of Picton. Cross the Cook Strait from the North Island to arrive on the South Island. Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.
Check-in - Beachcomber Hotel
Beachcomber Hotel is a charming hotel that overlooks Picton Harbor. Guests can expect simple, clean rooms with free WiFi, television, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant open for dinner, and a bar. With a beautiful and convenient location within walking distance to other shops and restaurants, Beachcomber Hotel is an excellent choice hotel in Picton.
Day 9. Picton - Christchurch
Today, you'll travel to Kaikoura where whales are commonly spotted. There is an optional whale watching flight available. Continue on along the Pacific Ocean coast to Christchurch.
Tonight, you'll dine in Christchurch's inner city. Your travel director will have plenty of recommendations for a delicious dinner!
Check-in - Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Located in the heart of the city, Ibis Hotel Christchurch is an ideal place to stay. Guests can expect free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and a television in every room. Oopen Restaurant serves international cuisine, and Oopen Bar is a perfect place to gather any time of day. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the best shopping and dining opportunities that Christchurch has to offer!
Day 10. Christchurch - Omarama
Spend time at leisure this morning before departing for Omarama. You'll take a city sights tour of Christchurch to see how the city is recovering and rebuilding in wake of the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
There is more spectacular sightseeing in store today as you travel through the countryside of the Canterbury Plains. Enjoy views of Lake Tekapo with mountains and hills in the background.
This afternoon, you have the opportunity to join an optional scenic flight experience that takes you over Mount Cook National Park, Franz Josef, and the Fox Glaciers!
Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight in Omarama, the heart of the Mackenzie Country.
Check-in - Heritage Gateway Hotel
Heritage Gateway Hotel is set amidst beautiful gardens and scenery. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, hair dryers, and more. The hotel features a restaurant and bar where outdoor dining is encouraged to enjoy the mountains! The area around the hotel offers ample hiking and biking opportunities.
Day 11. Omarama - Dunedin
Journey this morning along the Waitaki River with a photo stop at the Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and Benmore Dam. Travel through the township of Oamaru, famous for its white limestone buildings. Travel on to the southernmost city in New Zealand, Dunedin,
The rest of your afternoon is free to explore the city at leisure. There are optional excursions available if you wish to participate, including a Wildlife Cruise, a visit to Speights Brewery, or a ride along the Taieri Gorge Railway.
Check-in - Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is located within walking distance of many of Dunedin's top attractions. Guest rooms include free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. Dine at Princes on Dowling Restaurant, serving breakfast and dinner. Grab a drink and cozy up by the fireplace in the bar after a busy day. Workout at the gym before starting your day, ask the concierge to assist you with booking a tour, and more when you stay at Scenic Hotel Dunedin City.
Day 12. Dunedin - Te Anau
Spend free time in Dunedin this morning! You may want to venture to New Zealand's only castle, Larnach Castle. Perhaps you'd rather stroll through the campus of Otago University, New Zealand's first university! Dunedin has Scottish ancestry, so pay close attention to the street names as you go!
This afternoon, travel through green pastures and sheep-filled lands. This landscape will change back into forests and mountains as you make your way through Fiordland National Park to Te Anau!
Tonight, you have the option of joining a Glow Worm Caves tour! Dinner will be served at your hotel.
Check-in - Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Distinction Luxmore Hotel is conveniently located in the center of Te Anau. Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, and television. The hotel offers two dining options, Bailiez Cafe and Hilights Restaurant. The hotel is just a short stroll away from the town's shopping center. Lake Te Anau is also close by, giving guests the opportunity to explore the beauty of the area!
Day 13. Te Anau - Queenstown
Depart Te Anau this morning, heading back towards Fiordland National Park. The road you'll travel today is incredible scenic, so you'll want to have your camera fully charged!
Stop along the way at Mirror Lakes for great photo opportunities and bask in the beautiful surroundings. Continue on to Homer Tunnel, down the Cleddau Valley, and to Milford Sound. Cruise this beautiful body of water, taking in the sights of the Bowen and Stirling Falls as you go. Mitre Peak rises from the deep waters of the fiord and is a spectacular sight to behold.
After your cruise, you will continue to Queenstown! Take an orientation tour here around the shores of Lake Wakatipu and into the city center.
The location of this stunning hotel can't get better. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and just a 5-minute walk to the center of Queenstown, you'll enjoy spectacular scenery and easy access to the main hub of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then make your way to your room. Open the door and find free WiFi, plush bedding, stylish decor, and much more! Soak in the cozy jacuzzi, then treat yourself to a delicious bite (and amazing views) at the onsite Impressions Restaurant!
Day 14. Queenstown
Today is a free day in Queenstown for you to explore your way! There are plenty of optional excursions for you to purchase if you wish, and your travel director is happy to assist you in doing so!
If you'd rather explore independently, consider a city stroll to shop, dine, and experience the waterfront!
Tonight, you'll experience a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. Enjoy a gourmet BBQ dinner at Walter Peaks' Colonel's Homestead and then sit back and experience an after-dinner farm show!
Day 15. Queenstown - Franz Josef
This morning you'll depart Queensland and head to Franz Josef. Stop along the way to visit Arrowtown, a gold mining settlement. Next, you'll stop in Cromwell which is set next to Lake Dunstan. Stop in a shop here to taste some stone fruit!
Continue traveling, passing Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka as you go. The backdrop will change to the rainforest of the West Coast as you pass Thunder Creek Falls and Mount Hooker.
Your final destination today is Franz Josef Glacier, comprised of extraordinary ice rivers. An optional experience is available to you that includes a helicopter flight over the glaciers!
Dinner tonight will be at your hotel.
Check-in - Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Sitting on the edge of Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offers modern amenities and breathtaking views. Step into the beautiful lobby, where modern luxury meets cozy ski lodge. Check in the with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then explore the hotel grounds.
Open the door to your spacious room and find free WiFi, satellite TV, plush bedding, and much more. Many rooms even have balconies and scenic views! Once you settle in, enjoy a steamy soak in the hot tub, or treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant.
Day 16. Franz Josef - Christchurch
Stroll through the charming Franz Josef village this morning before heading to Hokitika. Here, pay a visit to a pounamu factory to see master carvers at work. Pounamu is native greenstone or jade. Legend says it is bad luck to buy it for yourself so be sure to have someone purchase your trinket for you!
From Hokitika, travel to Arthur's Pass, a small settlement. Here, you'll board the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch city. Known as one of the world's most scenic train trips, you're in for a treat!
Tonight, you'll share one final meal with your travel director and travel companions as you recall happy memories from your time together!
Check-in - Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Located in the heart of the city, Ibis Hotel Christchurch is an ideal place to stay. Guests can expect free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and a television in every room. Oopen Restaurant serves international cuisine, and Oopen Bar is a perfect place to gather any time of day. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the best shopping and dining opportunities that Christchurch has to offer!
Day 17. Depart New Zealand
Today you will be transferred to the Christchurch Airport for your flight home!