Highlights of New Zealand

Today, your tour begins with your departure from your selected airport. Your journey to New Zealand starts here, with connecting flights along the way.

Kia ora – welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand. You'll be greeted with a friendly kia ora the moment you arrive at the airport. It means 'hello' or 'be well' and is the traditional Maori greeting you'll hear everywhere as you travel through this warm and welcoming country. Aotearoa is the original Maori name for New Zealand. Here, it's common for places to have both English and Maori names, both of which are widely used.

After your long flight, you’ll be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel – the drive takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) is an exciting metropolis — a vibrant melting pot of cultures with strong Maori roots influenced by Polynesian, Asian, and European communities. Located on the northern coast of the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, home to around 1.7 million people — nearly a third of the country’s entire population. The city nestles beautifully between the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, offering a unique blend of nature and urban life. It’s often called the City of Sails, thanks to the countless yachts lining its shores.

The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish, and we recommend strolling down to Viaduct Harbour — Auckland’s lively waterfront district filled with cafés, restaurants, bars, and a relaxed maritime atmosphere.

Remember to get plenty of fresh air and daylight, and keep hydrated. It’s the best way to beat any jet lag.

To ensure you get the very best start to your time in Auckland, we've included a three-hour city tour that provides a perfect introduction to the many experiences the city has to offer. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll visit some of Auckland's most impressive highlights while gaining a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture.

Your morning begins with a pick-up from your hotel, followed by a visit to the bustling shopping boulevard Queen Street, Auckland University, and the beautiful, lush city park, The Domain—landscaped in and around an extinct volcanic crater.

The tour then continues through the charming suburb of Ponsonby, well-known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, before you cross the iconic Harbour Bridge to North Shore. Here, you'll have time to enjoy a stroll along the beach with picturesque views over Waitemata Harbour and the volcanic island of Rangitoto.

Next, you’ll visit the historic district of Devonport, where you’ll take in breathtaking views back across Auckland’s harbour and city from a vantage point atop the extinct Devonport volcanoes. Many consider this the best view in the entire city—see what you think!

Your city tour comes to a close with a stop at Westhaven Marina, one of the largest marinas in the Southern Hemisphere. Here, you can enjoy views through a forest of masts towards the city skyline as well as back across to the Harbour Bridge.

By midday, you’ll be back at your hotel with the rest of the day free for your own explorations.aWhy not take the chance to visit the Sky Tower, which you may well have already spotted? The Sky Tower is one of Auckland’s most iconic landmarks – at 328 metres, it’s the tallest freestanding building in New Zealand. Take the lift up to the observation deck for a stunning 360° panoramic view over Auckland, Rangitoto Island and Waitemata Harbour. Adventurers may want to try the SkyWalk—circumnavigating a narrow platform 192 metres up—or the SkyJump: a controlled base jump from the top of the tower. Sky Tower also boasts Orbit 360°, a revolving restaurant 190 metres above the ground. The floor slowly turns as you dine, giving you sweeping views of the horizon without ever leaving your seat.

You also have the option of extending your city tour by joining a wine-tasting excursion, including lunch, or experiencing Auckland from the water aboard a relaxed sailing boat dinner cruise. Read more below.

Today is yours to spend as you wish in Auckland, allowing you the freedom to set your own pace. Perhaps there were areas you discovered during your city tour that you’d like to explore further, or maybe you fancy visiting some of the city’s fascinating museums? 

In Domain Park, you’ll find the Auckland War Memorial Museum (Tāmaki Paenga Hira), offering a captivating insight into New Zealand’s history and culture. If you’re an art lover, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is well worth a visit. Down by Viaduct Harbour, you can explore the city’s Maritime Museum, home to engaging exhibitions on everything from Polynesian voyagers to the world-renowned America’s Cup yacht race. 

Auckland enjoys a truly remarkable setting, perched atop more than 50 volcanic cones known collectively as the Auckland Volcanic Field. Today, these dormant volcanoes form peaceful grassy hills, intersected with walking trails perfect for a gentle hike. We highly recommend the short walk to the summit of Mount Eden (Maungawhau) in the Auckland suburb of the same name, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views. 

If the weather is fine and you’re in the mood for some relaxation by the sea, Auckland boasts an array of beautiful beaches. Mission Bay, located conveniently close to the city centre, is a particular favourite among locals and visitors alike. 

Auckland also has an extensive ferry network, with services departing from the city’s ferry terminal on Quay Street at the end of Queen Street. Ferries run regularly to and from the suburbs and nearby islands. For example, you could head across to Waiheke Island (Te Motu-arai-roa), which is especially celebrated for its vineyards. 

Alternatively, you could choose one of our optional tours, such as a visit to Waiheke Island including lunch at a local winery. We also offer a full-day excursion to the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula (Te Tara-o-te-Ika-a-Māui), renowned for its stunning natural beauty. 

Today promises a day brimming with exciting experiences, including a visit to the world-famous Hobbiton film set from The Lord of the Rings, right in the heart of Middle Earth, and a trip to the active geothermal area of Wai-O-Tapu, where surreal landscapes and bubbling mud pools reveal the powerful forces beneath the earth’s surface. You’ll travel in comfort aboard a minibus with an experienced local guide by your side throughout the journey. We call this a ‘sightseeing transfer’.  

Leaving Auckland, you’ll head south through breathtaking scenery towards the Waikato region, New Zealand’s agricultural heartland. Nestled amidst the rolling green hills, you’ll find a place where imagination comes to life – Hobbiton! The Hobbiton Movie Set is one of the country's most iconic and enchanting attractions, a must-visit whether you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit, or simply want to experience something truly unique.
Here, a 2.5-hour guided tour with a professional Hobbiton guide awaits, giving you the chance to explore the 12-hectare set. You’ll see more than 40 Hobbit holes hidden within magical gardens and hear fascinating secrets and stories from the films’ creation. The tour wraps up with a refreshing drink at the famous Hobbiton pub, The Green Dragon Inn.  

There’s plenty of time for lunch and coffee breaks along the way (at your own expense).  

The journey then continues south towards Wai-O-Tapu, a vibrant and spectacular geothermal area shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity. Here, you’ll witness a surreal landscape filled with bubbling mud pools, steaming earth, and vivid hot springs in all the colours of the rainbow. Highlights include the almost otherworldly Champagne Pool, with its striking orange rim and fizzing surface, along with colourful crater lakes and steaming paths that guide you through what truly feels like another planet. And yes – there’s definitely a whiff of sulphur in the air, but that’s all part of the adventure.  

After a day packed with unforgettable experiences, you’ll arrive in Rotorua (Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe) in the late afternoon. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure in this charming little town.  

Rotorua sits atop an active volcanic zone, where the forces of nature are ever-present. Steaming geothermic vents, bubbling mud pools, and erupting geysers fill the landscape, while the air is tinged with the scent of sulphur. The town is also famous for its deep connections to Māori culture and for offering some truly unique wellness experiences. 

Treat yourself to a relaxing day at the spa at either Polynesian Spa or Wai Ariki Hot Springs—both are centrally located and easily accessible. Advance booking is recommended. 

Stroll along the edge of Lake Rotorua and soak up the tranquil views, or take a trip out to Hell’s Gate for the chance to enjoy its famous mud spa experience. 

If you’re keen to delve further into Rotorua’s geothermal wonders and breathtaking scenery, consider the "Spirit of Rotorua" excursion. This tour features a visit to the Te Puia Thermal Park, where the Pohutu geyser erupts up to 30 metres high several times a day. You’ll also have the chance to take in the stunning views at Blue and Green Lake before wandering amongst the towering trees of the magnificent Redwood Forest. 

Discover more about New Zealand’s small and elusive national bird—the kiwi—at the National Kiwi Hatchery, located just a 10-minute drive from Rotorua. It’s thanks to this iconic bird that New Zealanders are fondly known as “Kiwis” all over the world. 

Round off your day with a Māori performance, offering genuine insight into traditional Māori culture. The evening ends with a delicious hangi feast, cooked in a customary earth oven with heated stones—just as it’s been done for generations. 

It’s time to bid farewell to Rotorua and New Zealand’s North Island. You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to Rotorua airport, where you’ll catch your flight to Christchurch (Ōtautahi) – a journey of approximately 2 hours.  

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island, home to around 400,000 people. In 2011, a powerful earthquake struck the city, but Christchurch has risen admirably from the devastation, undergoing a remarkable transformation. Today, it stands as a vibrant testament to resilience, creativity, and cultural diversity. The city beautifully blends charming historic buildings with modern, innovative architecture, all set within picturesque surroundings. Christchurch is aptly known as "The Garden City" thanks to its abundance of green spaces – most notably the stunning botanical garden and the peaceful Avon River, which winds lazily through the city centre. 

Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. 

A wonderful way to end the day is with dinner in the charming, atmospheric area along the Avon River around The Terrace and Oxford Terrace. Here, you’ll find a string of contemporary restaurants, bars, and cafés – many with outdoor seating and lovely riverside views. If you follow The Terrace, you’ll come to Riverside Market, a covered food hall brimming with small eateries, delicatessens, and local specialities. There’s truly something here for everyone. 

To ensure you have the best introduction to Christchurch and its charming suburbs, we’ve included a three-hour city tour with a local guide—just as we did in Auckland.  
Your tour begins right in the heart of Christchurch, where you’ll gain insight into the city’s dramatic transformation following the 2011 earthquake. Your guide will bring the story to life, showing you how Christchurch has reinvented itself with a harmonious blend of tradition and new ideas. 

You’ll then pass the city’s renowned Botanic Gardens before arriving at Mona Vale—a tranquil park featuring blooming gardens, mature trees, and a graceful colonial-era homestead.  
From here, you’ll leave the city centre and ascend to Port Hills, stopping at the Sign of the Takahe—a historic building offering spectacular panoramic views over Christchurch and the vast plains beyond. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) in the distance. 

Your scenic route continues along winding mountain roads, passing Sign of the Kiwi and Governors Bay, and then leads you down to the port town of Lyttelton (Ōhinehou), famous for its maritime character. After travelling through the Lyttelton Tunnel, you’ll reach the inviting suburb of Sumner, where the beach and the striking rock formation known as Cave Rock mark the end of your excursion. From here, you’ll return to Christchurch.  

The remainder of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. You might like to hop aboard the delightful historic tram, which rattles through the city centre with stops at many major attractions. Alternatively, discover Christchurch from the water on a romantic punt down the Avon River; your guide will gently pole you along through tranquil scenery—reminiscent of Venice, surrounded by lush gardens and elegant bridges.  
Right in the city centre, you’ll also find the Canterbury Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s fascinating history—from Māori culture and European colonisation to the natural sciences and Antarctic expeditions. 

Today, no excursions are planned, so the day is entirely yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps you’ll be tempted by a relaxing stroll through Christchurch’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, or you might fancy a visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu to explore fascinating exhibitions showcasing both New Zealand and international art. 

You also have the option to join one of our optional tours to discover an incredible marine world off the coast – either at the seaside town of Akaroa or a little further north in Kaikoura.  

In Akaroa, you might be lucky enough to spot rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, and little blue penguins as you cruise through the picturesque bay on a nature cruise. 

In Kaikoura, set out on an exhilarating whale watching safari in search of magnificent sperm whales. You’ll often also have the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds such as the majestic albatross. 

You’ll be up early today – but it’s more than worth it, as the day’s itinerary promises spectacular encounters with nature. Truly unforgettable moments await!  

From Christchurch, your journey will take you through the undulating Canterbury Plains and into the heart of the central highlands, with the snow-capped Southern Alps rising ahead. The first stop is the iconic Lake Tekapo (Takapō), renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and the small stone-built Church of the Good Shepherd – arguably one of the most photographed spots in all New Zealand.  

Your journey will continue along the shores of Lake Pukaki (Pūkahaki), where the magnificent sight of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook (Aoraki) – standing at 3,724 metres – gradually comes into view on the horizon. You’ll arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, with around 2.5 hours to explore at your own pace. For example, you might opt for a short walk along one of the marked trails, soaking up the beauty of the alpine surroundings. Alternatively, you could visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (entrance not included), named in honour of the legendary New Zealand mountaineer who, along with sherpa Tenzing Norgay, was the first to conquer Mount Everest in 1953. Hillary trained and climbed several of New Zealand’s highest peaks in the Mount Cook area, making it a place of special significance for him.

After your time in the Mount Cook region, the tour will head further south, with more fascinating stops along the way. You’ll travel through Lindis Pass and onward to Queenstown (Tāhuna), passing through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge. 

Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Queenstown, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel and can spend the rest of the evening at your leisure.  

Queenstown is famous as New Zealand’s adventure capital, and for thrill-seekers, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get your heart racing. The town is home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump, and also offers activities like jet boating, skydiving, river rafting, and paragliding. However, Queenstown isn’t just for adrenaline junkies – you’ll also find breathtaking natural beauty, opportunities to unwind, excellent wine and delicious food. There really is something for everyone here.

The town centre is charming and compact, with small shops, galleries, and restaurants, many of which are clustered along Shotover Street. You can take a stroll along the town’s lakefront, Marine Parade, where you’ll also find the local tourist information centre – a perfect place for inspiration to plan your day.

We recommend taking the historic gondola up to the popular viewpoint at Bob’s Peak, where you can soak up spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu (Wakatipu Waimāori) and the striking Remarkables mountain range. At the top, you’ll find a place to grab a bite to eat and you can also have a go on the fun luge track – a toboggan run where you can race downhill all year round in little carts. 

If you’re keen to spend the day hiking, you can continue from Bob’s Peak along the trail to Ben Lomond Saddle, or even all the way to the summit of Ben Lomond itself. It’s a stunning, self-guided trek through Queenstown’s alpine landscapes. For those aiming for the summit, the hike takes around 5–6 hours return from Bob’s Peak; if you start all the way from the town below, allow an extra 2–3 hours. Don’t forget, this hike requires suitable gear, including clothing, good footwear, and plenty of water, and always check the weather forecast before setting off – mountain weather can change in an instant.

We also offer a range of optional tours, depending on your interests. Find out more below.

Queenstown and the surrounding area have enough experiences and activities to fill several weeks, so the challenge lies in simply choosing what to do!

Your day will begin bright and early, as another highlight awaits you – a cruise on the enchanting Milford Sound (Piopiotahi). The drive to and from the fjord is almost as spectacular as the boat trip itself. 

From Queenstown, you’ll travel along the shores of the striking Lake Wakatipu before making your way through the dramatic landscape of Devil’s Staircase. The route takes you via the peaceful town of Te Anau and into Fiordland National Park, where the scenery begins to transform. Here, you’ll encounter broad glacial valleys like Eglinton Valley, the glassy Mirror Lakes, deep river gorges such as Hollyford River, and lush forest. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop and photograph the breathtaking views along the way.
The journey continues through the Darran Mountains and reaches its peak at the impressive Homer Tunnel. Emerging on the other side, the valley suddenly opens up in dramatic fashion – on rainy days, waterfalls cascade down the sheer cliffs on either side, creating an unforgettable spectacle. 

Upon arrival at Milford Sound, you’ll embark on an approximately 2-hour adventure cruise through the fjord. You’ll get truly up close to awe-inspiring scenery: towering rock faces, thundering waterfalls, dense rainforest, and, with some luck, dolphins and New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks. A passionate nature guide is on board to share their extensive local knowledge along the way.
A packed lunch (included), along with tea and coffee, will be provided for you to savour amidst these stunning surroundings. You’ll have the choice of sitting either indoors or out on deck, so be sure to bring clothing for all weather conditions. 

On your return journey to Queenstown, there will be further photo stops, and your guide will ensure you experience all the highlights – from fascinating stories to hidden gems. 

Today, your journey continues to Franz Josef, but this is far from “just” a travel day. You’re in for another day packed with breathtaking natural wonders—dramatic mountain scenery, glassy lakes, and lush rainforest. Along the way, there are short walks that lead to unforgettable natural highlights.

From Queenstown, the route takes you along the scenic Crown Range mountain road. Your first stop is the historic Cardrona Hotel, home to one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic pubs. Then it’s on to Wanaka, where you can snap the classic photo of “That Wanaka Tree”—a solitary willow standing right in Lake Wanaka, framed by the majestic mountains in the background.

About an hour from Wanaka, stretch your legs on the easy 3km Blue Pools Track in Mount Aspiring National Park. This well-trodden path winds through enchanting beech forest before revealing breathtakingly clear, turquoise pools where the Makarora and Blue rivers meet. Their remarkable colour and clarity come from the cold glacial meltwater of the region.

You’ll also stop at the dramatic Thunder Creek Falls, which plunges 28 metres before you drive through the Haast Pass and reach the wild beauty of New Zealand’s west coast—where rugged beaches collide with dense rainforest.

Before arriving in Franz Josef, there’s a final stop at Lake Matheson (Te Ara Kairaumati), famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps on a clear day. A gentle 4.5km walk around the lake offers plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.

Towards the end of the day, you’ll arrive in Franz Josef, a small town named after the Franz Josef Glacier. The glacier itself was so named by German geologist Julius von Haast in 1865, in honour of Emperor Franz Josef I of Austria.

You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, with the rest of the evening free for you to explore at your own pace.

The Franz Josef Glacier has been formed over tens of thousands of years by snowfall high in the Southern Alps, which has gradually compacted into solid ice. According to Māori legend, the glacier is known as Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, meaning Hine Hukatere's Tears. As the story goes, she lost her beloved in the mountains, and her many tears of grief froze and created the glacier. 

Like many glaciers around the world, Franz Josef has been heavily impacted by climate change, and has retreated significantly over recent decades. As a result, it is no longer possible to walk directly onto the ice from the valley floor. However, you can still enjoy up-close encounters with this mesmerising glacier via a network of walking trails and viewpoints, or by soaring above it on a helicopter flight. 

Today is yours to spend as you choose in Franz Josef. This charming little town has several cosy cafés, restaurants, boutique shops, and galleries. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere, surrounded by lush rainforest and rugged mountain peaks. 

There are several beautiful walks in the area, ranging in length and difficulty. We recommend the classic Franz Josef Glacier Walk, which leads you to a viewpoint offering fantastic vistas of the glacier and surrounding forest. This is an easy stroll of about 1.5 km return, starting near the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park. From there, you can also do the Peters Pool Track, another short and easy walk of about 1 km return, bringing you to the small lake, Peters Pool. On clear days, the glassy water perfectly reflects the glacier. 
It’s approximately 4.5 km from Franz Josef to the glacier car park. You can choose to walk both ways or take a taxi out and walk back to town. The route is fairly flat. 

Round off your day at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you can meet the extremely rare rowi kiwi and learn more about the local area’s unique nature, glaciers, and ongoing conservation efforts. 

If you’d like to explore with a guide and discover more about the area’s distinctive ecosystem, you can add our fascinating guided excursion below. Or treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a helicopter flight over the glacier, landing on the ice. For the more adventurous, why not opt for a heli-hike, combining a helicopter flight with a two-hour guided trek on the glacier – complete with an experienced guide and all the necessary equipment. 

Today, your journey will take you back towards Christchurch, with a wealth of experiences awaiting along the untamed west coast and across the mountains and plains of the South Island.

Your first stop is the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge, famed for its vividly turquoise waters, surrounded by dense native forest. This is the perfect opportunity to snap some fantastic photos and soak up the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.

Next, head to the charming town of Hokitika, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch (included) and take a stroll along the dramatic black sand beach, where the land meets the wild Tasman Sea. Hokitika is renowned for its beautiful green jade, and you'll find many shops showcasing unique jewellery.

Continuing east, you’ll pass the Otira Gorge viewpoint, also known as Death’s Corner, where you can marvel at the spectacular 440-metre-long Otira Viaduct and perhaps spot the cheeky alpine parrot, the kea.
In Arthur’s Pass Village, there’s the chance to stretch your legs with a short walk to the 131-metre-high Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall (Te Tautea o Hine-pūkohurangi), or simply browse the local cafés and shops and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Your next stop is Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti), an area famed for its remarkable limestone formations, which have starred in films such as The Lord of the Rings and Narnia. Wander amongst the unique rock outcrops and enjoy the sweeping views.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, with the remainder of your evening at leisure.

As an optional extra, you have the opportunity to swap your minibus transport for a journey by train from Greymouth to Christchurch—the world-famous TranzAlpine railway, regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular scenic train routes. Please note, if you choose this option, you will not experience the above-mentioned stops after Hokitika. You can read more about this option below.

It’s time to bid farewell to New Zealand. You’ll be collected from your hotel and taken to the airport, where you’ll fly to your seleccted airport with connecting flight(s) along the way.

You’ll arrive in Europe after an unforgettable journey, taking in many of New Zealand’s very best highlights.