Highlights of New Zealand

Day 1
Fly from the UK to Auckland

Day 2
Auckland
You can arrive at any time into Auckland and there are no activities planned until your evening welcome meeting when you will meet your guide and the rest of your tour group.

Accommodation: 4* Nesuto Stadium Hotel & Apartments (or similar)

Day 3
Auckland/Rotorua
Today you'll make your way over to New Zealand's famous active geothermal zone, Rotorua where you'll be able to take in its volcanic features and rich Maori history too. En route you'll stop at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves where you'll take a boat through the underground cave system and marvel at the thousands of glowworms lighting up the dark.

Accommodation: 4* Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Day 4
Rotorua
Explore Rotorua and choose to experience the geothermal regions or try whitewater rafting. In the evening, immerse yourself in Maori culture with a visit to a local village where you’ll enjoy traditional ceremonies, a Hangi feast and cultural performances. Rotorua is located above an active volcanic area, featuring bubbling mud pools and vibrant, multi-coloured hot springs scattered throughout the town. You can opt to visit one of these geothermal sites during your free time today.

Accommodation: 4* Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)

Day 5
Rotorua/Wellington
Today you'll travel down from Rotorua to the nation's capital Wellington and take in the North Island's scenery as you go.

Accommodation: 4* Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington (or similar)

Day 6
Wellington
Experience the vibe of this vibrant yet laid-back city. After a guided walk to get acquainted, you'll have a full day to explore at your own pace. You can choose to visit the Te Papa Museum or ride the cable car to the scenic botanical gardens.

Accommodation: 4* Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington (or similar)

Day 7
Wellington/Kaikoura
Take a flight to the South Island and head to the coastal town of Kaikoura, famous for its rich marine ecosystem. On the way, enjoy a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard.

Accommodation: 4* The White Morph (or similar)

Day 8
Kaikoura/Hanmer Springs
Today, you'll have a free morning in Kaikoura where you can choose to embark on a whale-watching excursion to spot massive sperm whales, or join a tour to swim in the open waters, a popular spot for wild dolphins. In the afternoon, make your way to Hanmer Springs, where you can choose to relax in the therapeutic hot springs.

Accommodation: 3* Drifters Inn Hanmer Springs (or similar)

Day 9
Hanmer Springs/Franz Josef
Admire the breathtaking landscapes as you journey through the Southern Alps to the wild and isolated West Coast, where you'll stay in the rainforest close to the planet's fastest-moving glacier.

Accommodation: 4* Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Day 10
Franz Josef
Take a day to explore the surroundings of Franz Josef at your leisure. You can choose to discover the glacier through a heli-hike or any of the many other activities on offer. The area offers a wide range of optional activities to fit various budgets and interests. You can try heli-hiking, scenic helicopter rides, skydiving, kayaking on the lake or relaxing in the hot pools.

Accommodation: 4* Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Day 11
Franz Josef/Queenstown
Today you'll head to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and offering a wide range of activities, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on the vibrant nightlife.

Accommodation: 4* Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Days 12-13
Queenstown
With some free time in Queenstown, you can choose to go bungee jumping (the sport's birthplace), try jet boating (also originated here!), experience skydiving, or enjoy a hike. For a more relaxed option, take a gondola ride to the summit of a nearby peak. The following day take in the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound on a day cruise. Enjoy the waterfalls and wildlife, then return to Queenstown for the night.

Accommodation: 4* Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Day 14
Queenstown to Tekapo
Journey north across the heart of the South Island to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's tallest peak. Spend the afternoon exploring the area on a hike, soaking in the stunning alpine views. Visit the Visitor's Centre to learn about the legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary, before taking a brief yet picturesque drive to Tekapo Village.

Accommodation: 3* Godley Hotel (or similar)

Day 15
Tekapo to Christchurch
Head to Christchurch and join your guide for an orientation walk before having free time to explore the city. Then spend one last night together with the group to say goodbye at your farewell dinner.

Accommodation: 3* Bealey Quarter (or similar)