Travel Detail

After breakfast, meet with your guide and depart on a Auckland City sightseeing highlights: (Harbour Bridge, Waterfront, Mission Bay, Tamaki Drive, Savage Point, Parnell Rose Park and Village, Auckland Domain and Gardens and City centre).

Auckland Museum: Auckland War Memorial Museum is where exciting stories of New Zealand’s people, the flora and fauna, and landforms of New Zealand's unique islands are told within a memorial dedicated to those who have sacrificed their lives for their country. In one of New Zealand's most outstanding historical buildings, you will encounter exhibitions that will excite you with the artistic legacy and cultures of the peoples of the Pacific. The Museum is a key destination for families. Children are encouraged to develop an understanding of the world around them by exploring cultures, the arts, science, and the environment.

SKYCITY Auckland: Taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the AMP Tower in Sydney, the iconic Auckland Sky Tower at 328m high is the focal point of the city and renowned for its breathtaking views taking in ancient volcanoes, sparkling sunlit harbours and beyond, excellent dining, interactive installations and adrenaline-pumping entertainment such as SkyJump, SkyWalk and SkySlide . Entrance to the Sky Tower is through an underground tunnel located at the base of the tower. Access to the observation deck and to the level where the restaurants are located is via three elevators with a glass front wall, and one with a glass floor.

The hotel's close proximity to the centre of the city make it ideal for both business and leisure, with the Casino and the Viaduct's thriving bars and restaurants just a short walk away. And for exploring beyond downtown Auckland, access to the motorway system is close at hand. Rooms at Rydges Auckland are designed to exude warmth and sublime comfort. All rooms enjoy views of the inner city, while some enjoy sweeping views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the picturesque Waitemata Harbour.

Leaving Auckland in the morning, we travel through the Waikato and King Country regions, passing by flourishing farmland and picturesque countryside.

On arrival in the small town of Waitomo, enjoy a 45-minutes guided tour through the world famous

Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Your guided tour will take you through over 250 metres of stunning underground scenery commencing with the impressive Cathedral. Your tour begins at the upper entrance of the cave and proceeds along a low narrow passage to the Tomo, a deep limestone shaft. Your experienced tour guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece and the history of the area. The highlight of your tour is an unrivalled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto.

Marvel at Mother Nature's light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Meander underground along the Waitomo River and gaze in silence at the myriad of

glow worm lights that make up the Glowworm Grotto. As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you'll immediately experience a serene ambience and be fascinated and intrigued by tiny glowworms that light your way. Duration: 45mins.

There is time to enjoy a traditional BBQ buffet lunch, with a steak main course at Roselands Restaurant, before we leave Waitomo, and we make our way to Rotorua, in the heart of the Central North Island. Passing through the beautiful Fitzgerald Glade where trees arch over the road to form a tunnel of natural greenery before arriving in Rotorua.

ROTORUA is located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Maori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Maori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

This evening, a evening to remember with the Te Pa Tu/ Te Po combination of a guided experience + Indigenous Evening. Be guided through New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, Rotowhio Pa, Kiwi Conservation Centre and Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley including Pohutu geyser with one of our shared tour departures.

Te Po begins with our mouth-watering buffet with locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish. Following dinner, you will experience the exhilarating pohiri (ceremonial welcome) into our beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. Enjoy the beauty and power of traditional waiata (song), moteatea (chants), poi and haka.

Then travel into the geothermal valley on our e-waka (36 seat electric passenger shuttle) for a hot chocolate upon our naturally heated rock-seating overlooking the dramatically lit Pohutu Geyser.

If you’re visiting New Zealand, Rotorua is simply unmissable. Located at the heart of the North Island it’s an adventure capital, a geothermal hot-spot, and a cultural hub. With its unique natural environment, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you crave adrenalin-fuelled fun, sightseeing, and natural wonders, or a bit of pampering and relaxation, Rotorua combines it all in one bubbling, boiling, the beauty of a city. As well as smelling a bit funny, Rotorua is famous for its stunning geothermal parks. Wai-O-Tapu is nothing short of spectacular. Te Puia never fails to impress. And if you love bubbling mud, Hell's Gate is heaven on earth. For pure beauty, there’s Hamurana Springs and Lake Tarawera are beyond compare. In all, there are over 18 lakes in the region you can walk around or explore by boat. Swim at sandy beaches, enjoy the tranquillity of stunning waterfalls, soak in a hot stream… somehow you always feel you’ve discovered your very own secret spot.

Rotorua City Sightseeing highlights: Lake Rotorua, Redwood forest and Government Gardens.

We enjoy a visit and guded tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery; Be a part of 'conservation in action' as you take an immersive journey through the world of the kiwi at this state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility at Agrodome in Rotorua. During your 45 min guided tour you'll learn about Kiwi, their native environment and what makes them truly iconic the world over. Delve into darkness and spot foraging Kiwi in the purpose-built nocturnal house and discover the secrets of the Kiwi in dozens of interactive displays. You'll get to talk to Kiwi Keepers as you see kiwi eggs being incubated, understand the Kiwi hatching process and take a peak at newly hatched kiwi chicks.

The National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa is the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques, and kiwi chick rearing. Connect with Kiwi and make a difference - 100% of your ticket goes back to the kiwi hatching programme.

Next, is the Agrodome Farm Show, Rotorua’s world famous Sheep Show is an informative introduction into the unique variety of sheep breeds farmed, and sheared, in New Zealand. Each breed bringing its own unique wool features to what is a sustainable, natural fibre producing global industry.

For over 50 years, visitors have come to Agrodome to see the original Sheep Show, hosted by our entertaining Farm Presenters. Learn all about New Zealand farming as you watch and participate in a wide range of activities including sheep shearing, milking, stock auction, baby animal feeding, and dog demonstrations. After the show, head outdoors to the paddock for a farm dog sheep muster!

You will have the chance to interact with a wide range of baby farm animals in the Farmyard Nursery, adjacent to the Sheep Show.

If you’re visiting New Zealand, Rotorua is simply unmissable. Located at the heart of the North Island it’s an adventure capital, a geothermal hot-spot, and a cultural hub. With its unique natural environment, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you crave adrenalin-fuelled fun, sightseeing, and natural wonders, or a bit of pampering and relaxation, Rotorua combines it all in one bubbling, boiling, the beauty of a city. As well as smelling a bit funny, Rotorua is famous for its stunning geothermal parks. Wai-O-Tapu is nothing short of spectacular. Te Puia never fails to impress. And if you love bubbling mud, Hell's Gate is heaven on earth. For pure beauty, there’s Hamurana Springs and Lake Tarawera are beyond compare. In all, there are over 18 lakes in the region you can walk around or explore by boat. Swim at sandy beaches, enjoy the tranquillity of stunning waterfalls, soak in a hot stream… somehow you always feel you’ve discovered your very own secret spot.

Meet with your driver today at hotel lobby and transfer to airport for your domestic flight to Christchurch (not included)

Upon arrival in Christchurch, you will be met and our visit to Chruistchurch will begin with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre. Experience the wonder and magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch. The International Antarctic Centre offers authentic, interactive fun and provides an exciting experience of Antarctica for visitors of all ages. 4D theatre show with a simulated cruise to Antarctica showing spectacular scenery and realistic animal close ups is also included. Also sit back and enjoy the 15 minute Hagglund Ride displays the machine's capabilities over mounds, a crevasse, a newly-constructed liquorice strap' obstacle, moguls and of course the plunge into the 3m deep pond. The tracked 16-seat vehicle ride is the same Hägglund all-terrain vehicle used in Antarctica by the United States and New Zealand Antarctic Programmes, but with a few minor modifications for extra comfort such as seatbelts and air-conditioning!

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI - the Garden City, lies on the level plains that initially attracted the closely knit Church of England settlers that settled the area. The largest of the South Island cities, Christchurch retains something of the English nature of its origins - the willow and oak-lined River Avon and clustered mediaeval stone buildings.

The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions

Today is set aside for a day of leisure. Alternatively, we can make this a touring day, with the suggestions below, or something else!

Optional Tours:

Kaikoura - Whale Watch Tour: Spend your day getting close to nature. Travel by road through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral scenes, to Kaikoura where mountains meet sea. Kaikoura is world renowned for the variety of marine mammals which can be seen, not least of all the giant sperm whales and the acrobatic Dusky dolphins. On your arrival in Kaikoura you will be transferred to a whale watch tour; by boat, or light aircraft the choice is yours. In the afternoon you will visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters. On your return to Christchurch a stop will be made at a North Canterbury vineyard where a wine tasting has been arranged for you pleasure.

Akaroa Day Tour - Including Harbour Cruise: Visit the beautiful unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa. A charming small township nestled in an inner harbour bay of Akaroa Harbour on Banks Peninsula.

The township contains a host of historic buildings, craft and gift shops together with a multitude of idyllic photo opportunities. Lunch is included at the naturally picturesque setting of Akaroa Village at the popular Bully Hayes. In the afternoon enjoy the Akaroa Harbour Cruise on the Canterbury Cat. On your return journey to Christchurch a stop will be made at the Barry’s Bay Cheese factory, where you will get to sample some fine New Zealand cheese.

Arthur's Pass - Day Tour, Incl Train, Farm & Lunch: We invite you to join us on a tour discovery, featuring spectacular scenery. From Christchurch travel by road to Springfield at the foothills of the Southern Alps. At springfield, board the world famous TransAlpine train to travel through the Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass viewing the alpine scenery through panoramic windows. The TranzAlpine is renowned as one of the top ten train journeys in the world. From Arthurs Pass we tour by road over the snow-capped Southern Alp’s in the Arthurs Pass National Park and on to the Otira Gorge making a photo stop. Visit the old village of Otira before returning to Arthurs Pass for lunch. After lunch explore the village and some of the many walks. The return journey to Christchurch is by road stopping and visit to farm for late afternoon tea, followed by a sheep shearing and sheep mustering demonstration.

The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions

We depart for Dunedin, travelling from Christchurch along a scenic drive to Oamaru for a brief stop.

Our journey continues on towards Dunedin, and the Royal Albatross Centre. A unique, not to be missed chance to visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of magnificent Royal Albatross. Witness the fascinating social and family life of the breeding colony and have the chance to be awed by the soaring three metre wingspan of the birds flying above. Visitors enjoy intimate insights into the amazing world of the Royal Albatross. Includes fully guided tour, short film, information on albatross breeding life cycle and colony viewing from our exclusive observatory.

DUNEDIN/OTEPOTI - often called the "Edinburgh of the South", Dunedin was settled by the Scottish settlers that came to New Zealand. It is a city of spires, of towers, gables and roofs with turrets, and gracious, generally stone, buildings. Dunedin is also home to the Albatross and Penguin colonies plus many species of New Zealand wildlife.

The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross provides stylish inner city accommodation, giving the convenience of having entertainment, shopping and restaurants close at hand. Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station, theatres, shops, and close to Otago university, it is the perfect location from which to explore Dunedin. Whether you are staying for business or pleasure, it is hard to go past the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross. Dating back to 1883, this landmark building now blends Dunedin’s distinctive charm and heritage with modern styles and comforts. Your every comfort is well provided for, with 178 attractive rooms and suites, extensive hotel facilities, and a very high standard of service. This has earned the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross a 4-star plus Qualmark rating, as well as the Enviro-Silver award.

Our day begins with a Dunedin City Sightseeing Tour, we see the Octagon, Otago University, the iconic Railway Station and Baldwin Street.

We then travel through lush green pastures, crossing sheep-filled farming land. New Zealand is internationally known for its sheep farming, and these are sights many visitors to this country recognise as typically ‘New Zealand’. You are sure to find the perfect sheep photo here! As your journey continues, the rolling, grassy hills once again turn back into heavily forested, rugged mountains, and you meander your way up into the Fiordland National Park to the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau.

Optional: Fiordland Jet|Pure Wilderness (not included)

Jet boat down the Upper Waiau River with lush beech forest on either side and staggering mountain peaks in every direction. Your guide will make stops along the river to talk about the area and its rich history and also provide plenty of iconic 360 degree spins! Stops will include spots to look for rainbow and brown trout in the crystal-clear waters and three film locations featured in Lord of the Rings.

The mouth of the river opens onto Lake Manapouri where the guide will turn off the engine and allow you to take in one of the most impressive views in Fiordland and discuss the vast array of conservations efforts in the area. You can then disembark and step foot into Fiordland National Park to explore the native bush and learn about the local flora and fauna up close. After the short nature walk, you will board the boat to head back up the river to the boat ramp, with more commentary and plenty of fun along the way.

TE ANAU - the focal point of the Fiordland National Park, the country's most rugged and remote. Lake Te Anau sprawls at the feet of high rugged mountains with its South, Middle and North fiords probing into the ranges. The Lake, New Zealand's second largest, is 417 metres deep.

Located in the heart of the town, The Distinction Luxmore is a popular choice with both visitors and locals alike. Basing yourself in Te Anau enables you to explore the Fiordland World Heritage National Park and staying at Distinction Luxmore ensures your experience will be enjoyable. Distinction Luxmore has 186 rooms consisting of Standard, Superior and Deluxe. There are two on site restaurants and bars. Highlights Restaurant and bar has seating for 160 guests offering buffet breakfast daily and a scrumptious Carvery Buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy the views overlooking the township towards Lake Te Anau and surrounding mountain ranges.

Today is one of those days where you want to have your camera battery charged and ready to go. After leaving Te Anau, you will journey through the Fjordland National Park and out to Milford Sound on one of the most scenic roads you could hope for. Travel through native rainforests, beech forests, alluvial flats and meadows. You will stop at Mirror Lakes where, as the names suggests, you can see the stunning mountain scenery perfectly reflected in the waters of the lakes. Then on to the Homer Tunnel, man's attempt to master the sheer rocky ranges, still left rough-hewn around the edges. As you emerge out the other side of the tunnel, you are presented with one of the world's most dramatic alpine drives, down through the Cleddau Valley. You will have a stop at the Chasm, where the roaring Cleddau River has carved its way through solid rock, and then it's on to Milford Sound, where you will cruise the waters of this natural wonder. Your cruise meanders down the sound, taking in the Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacier hanging valleys sharply into the sea, and the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord. From the spectacular scenes of Milford Sound, you will travel on to the beautiful sights of Queenstown.

No other Milford Sound experience takes you further. Explore the natural world of the fjord and get closer to one of the most dramatic places on earth. The only experience in Milford Sound that includes a visit to the underwater observatory. Includes buffet lunch.

Afterwards, we drive on to Queenstown and our next stop.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA - is the South Island's most popular resort, set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. The town is renowned for its jet boating, bungy-jumping, skiing and awe-inspiring scenery. Local story has it, that the gold prospectors of the 19th century pronounced the town as "fit for any Queen", and so she was called Queenstown.

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting, and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona are also close by. Our 220 guest rooms and suites, meetings facilities, business center, gym, feature contemporary city-inspired design. Our luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for our special needs guests with our friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of our accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. We are firmly committed to sustainability best practices, constantly reviewing and improving operations to minimize the impact on the environment.

Today we tour Queenstown and the local area, as we depart on a city sightseeing highlights tour. Oud day will include a visit to Arrowtown, Viewing Bungy Jumping, and Lake Wakatipu.

This evening, our farewell dinner is at the Skyline Queenstown. Enjoy a scenic Gondola ride and sumptuous buffet-style dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant, serving iconic New Zealand dishes infused with international influences.

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting, and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona are also close by. Our 220 guest rooms and suites, meetings facilities, business center, gym, feature contemporary city-inspired design. Our luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for our special needs guests with our friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of our accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. We are firmly committed to sustainability best practices, constantly reviewing and improving operations to minimize the impact on the environment.

Today is free to relax or we can include another day of touring. The options include (additional cost)

Shotover Jet Boat Ride: From the moment the accelerator hits the floor your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed in mere centimetres of water along the famous Shotover River and deep into the spectacular Shotover River Canyons, it's an amazing ride. As the canyon walls tower over you, your expert driver puts your ‘Big Red’ through its paces and skilfully whips the Jet Boat past rocky outcrops, skims around crags and boulders, and speeds through the narrow canyons. With every turn, and you grip the handrail for comfort and reassurance and then let out a whoop of excitement as your driver spins the boat around in its own boat. Following your jet boat ride you will be returned to Queenstown by the Shotover courtesy coach.

Walter Peak - Gourmet BBQ Lunch: Take the 40-minute TSS Earnslaw boat ride across Lake Wakatipu to the shores of Walter Peak High Country Farm. Get off the boat and discover the workings of the farm. Strolling through the property's idyllic lakeside gardens offers fantastic views of the lake and mountains. Fuel up at the farm with a delicious BBQ lunch.

Be entertained by the farm demonstration, see the farm dogs at work before returning by steamboat across the lake.

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting, and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona are also close by. Our 220 guest rooms and suites, meetings facilities, business center, gym, feature contemporary city-inspired design. Our luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for our special needs guests with our friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of our accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. We are firmly committed to sustainability best practices, constantly reviewing and improving operations to minimize the impact on the environment.

The day is at leisure, until your transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward/return flight (not included)