Best Buys
New Zealand Vista
14 Day Guided Vacation | Auckland to Christchurch
Travel Period
You could spend eons exploring New Zealand’s North and South Islands. But you can also experience a New Zealand tour in two weeks – if you have the right advice. Follow us for Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere tours, train rides through alpine tundra, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruises in the company of dolphins and whales, glowing Waitomo Caves tours… and some down time amid wineries and city restaurants that take home awards.
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Prices From CODE: LAAC
Was $5550
Was $7285
$4995
Above lowest price is based on 2024-09-24 departure
$6557
Above lowest price is based on 2024-09-24 departure
Single rooms are limited and subject to availability
Child prices may be available on request
Secure your trip with a deposit
Trip Details
What's included
- • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
• 1 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Fiordland National Park
• Centrally located premium hotels
• National Park entrance fees
Dining
- • 13 Full Breakfasts
- • 2 Highlight Dinners
- • 4 Dinners
- • 1 Farewell Dinner
Flight Information
- Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm into Auckland Airport
Day 14 – flights to depart any time from Christchurch Airport
Flights are not included in the holiday price
What to Bring
- • Warm layers in cooler months
- • Camera
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- • Water bottle
Fitness Requirements
Low level of fitness required
Itinerary Generating PDF...
Auckland never fails to turn on the charm, as you’ll discover while exploring the city before meeting your Travel Director and fellow adventure-seekers for a Welcome Reception.
Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland
After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waikato River to Waitomo Caves. Here, your cruise route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, delve deep into Māori culture and traditions at Te Puia. The Te Pō Indigenous Experience begins with a delicious buffet dinner of locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Māori twist in each dish. Following dinner, view an exhilarating cultural performance that takes place in our beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.
Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Dinner
We’re leaving you up to your own devices today. Bliss out in the steamy thermal springs in Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. The choice is yours.
Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
A staggering 220,000 litres of water thunder over Huka Falls’ 11-metre high escarpment every second. It creates quite the calamity. From here, the road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, its waters so vivid and blue they resemble an Ice Mint. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington.
Hotel: Travelodge Wellington
Included Meals: Breakfast
Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South.
Hotel: Picton Yacht Club
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Black is the new black, as you’ll fast discover when walking along the dramatic ink-hued Kaikoura beach. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Talk to your Travel Director for tips on the essential restaurants to dine in tonight – Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one.
Hotel: Wyndham Garden
Included Meals: Breakfast
View the sights of the city including the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience at Tekapo, hosted by passionate guides, will forever change the way you see the night sky. You'll see for yourself it may be one of the quietest spots on the planet, yet it has one of the busiest skies in the universe.
Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Oamaru may have supplied other NZ cities with limestone, but it kept some for itself – and the result is glorious leafy streets with grand 1800s buildings that stand proud before you journey further south toward Dunedin. It’s easy to while away the afternoon in ‘little Edinburgh’s’ atmospheric art-lined alleys. Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Included Meals: Breakfast
Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are replaced by soaring mountains as you weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this.
Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
There are some travel days that blaze into your memory. Today is one. Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. Gin-clear rivers carve the countryside, with all roads leading to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Cruising this World Heritage listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast
Queenstown is known as NZ’s adventure capital for good reason. But don’t take our word for it. Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane jet boat ride. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Dinner
After departing the movie-set-perfect streets of Arrowtown, discover Lake Dunstan, surrounded by orchards where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere sparkles like a gem.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Swap white at Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere for green at Hokitika: the pounamu (native jade) found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys.
Hotel: Wyndham Garden
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Two islands, two weeks. It’s remarkable what you can see when you have the right people guiding you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
New Zealand Vista
Best Buys
14 Day Guided Vacation
Auckland to Christchurch
You could spend eons exploring New Zealand’s North and South Islands. But you can also experience a New Zealand tour in two weeks – if you have the right advice. Follow us for Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere tours, train rides through alpine tundra, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruises in the company of dolphins and whales, glowing Waitomo Caves tours… and some down time amid wineries and city restaurants that take home awards.
Highlights
Flexible Vacations
Freedom in travel? Explore remote reaches of the North Island one minute, then sip wine or zip across Queenstown lakes the next. Ask us for tips.
Iconic Sites
Within World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is the kind of place you expect to see on postcards. You’re here in real life.
Sustainable Travel
Dark Sky Project is committed to preserving our night skies by connecting manuhiri (visitors) to the relevance of the night sky via scientific and cultural experiences.
Natural Wonders
Get your glow on at the Waitomo Caves, a magical subterranean world lit by thousands of glowworms. Drift along and prepare to be dazzled.
Accommodation
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
Optional Experiences
Please note, prices for Optional Experiences are subject to change.
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Experiences for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The experiences can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
Air Milford - Milford Sound Flight Back to Queenstown (Queenstown)
NZ$470 Adult NZ$375 Child
A scenic flight from Milford Sound to return back to Queenstown. During the 35 minute flight take in panoramic views of spectacular scenery including glaciers, rivers, lakes and rainforest. Returrn transport to Queenstown accommodation is included.
Air Safaris - Grand Traverse Scenic Flight (Mt Cook)
NZ$470 Adult NZ$375 Child
Explore the alpine wonderland of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks and glacial lakes on this 45-minute scenic flight, including Murchison Glacier, Tasman Glacier, Main Divide, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, westland coastal rainforests and Mount Cook.
Canopy Tours - The Original Canopy Tour (Rotorua)
NZ$179 Adult
NZ$149 Child
Canopy tours zipline adventure activity is an experience of a lifetime. You’ll be transported to a long forgotten ancient forest just like the whole of New Zealand once was. Experience a low impact mode of transport to get you high in the ancient canopy! In total there are 6 ziplines totalling more than 650 metres, the highlight for most being the jawdropping 220 metre tui song zipline that departs from 22 metres up a 1000 year old tree. Beat that for a setting! There are numerous treetop platforms at varying heights above the forest floor where you can observe and take in the magic of the environment around you.
Fiordland Jet - Pure Wilderness Jet Boat Experience (Te Anau)
$179 Adult
Explore Fiordland National Park, journey from the glistening lakefront in Te Anau to the quiet banks of the Waiau River, travelling the waters of the deserted shores of Lake Manapouri. Experience a hidden world framed by mountains and wild forest, steeped in natural beauty and rich in history. Embrace this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the remote isolation of Fiordland National Park, one of the largest protected areas in the world – famous for its conservation efforts.
Haast River Safari (Franz Josef Glacier)
NZ$119 Adult NZ$69 Child
Travel on a purpose built fully enclosed river jet boat with front-loading access. Great visibility is ensured, yet you remain warm, dry and comfortable, making this a unique and safe experience suitable for anyone of any age to participate in and enjoy.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua)
NZ$259 Adult NZ$194 Child
Travel from Rotorua to Matamata then onto Hobbiton for your tour of the move set with Hobbiton Tours. Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. You will be fully guided around the 12-acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit South-farthing beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.
Pure Glenorchy - Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour (road-Queenstown)
NZ$189 Adult NZ$99 Child
Lord of The Rings Scenic Tour: Visit the stunning locations from Lord of The Rings. Encounter lsengard, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains, Ithilien and many more. Experience the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley and our closest world heritage area. Learn about the remarkable history and unique culture of Glenorchy. Our tour feature’s some of the world’s most spectacular scenery visiting Mt Aspiring World Heritage Area, Glenorchy, The Dart River Valley and Paradise. Encounter ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys.
The Helicopter Line - Neve Discoverer Flight 20mins (Franz Josef Glacier)
Adult: $330.00 NZD
Lift off and fly up over the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier to land amongst this alpine wonderland on a 20-minute scenic flight. Highlights include landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and a snow or icefall landing.
Larnach Castle Tour (Dunedin)
NZ$91.00 Adult NZ$54.00 Child
Let your local driver take you on an exciting Otago Peninsula drive to New Zealand’s only castle. Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin.
City to Sea Tour (Dunedin )
Adult: $105.00 NZD
Child: $45.00 NZD
Meet our unique local wildlife and discover why Dunedin is NZ’s nature capital. Enjoy a special wildlife experience around Taiaroa Head and out to sea. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the royal albatross nesting colony, the world’s only mainland breeding site for albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean on three metre wings and then soar high above the hillside. The boat will get close to spectacular volcanic cliffs for postcard views of a historic lighthouse. Below the cliffs you’ll watch as NZ fur seals play, swim and interact around their breeding rookery. A short way out to sea and we may spot rarely seen ocean birds, like other albatross species, cormorants and petrels. On some trips we come across sea lions, blue penguins, dusky dolphins, hectors dolphins and other marine mammals.
Speights Brewery - Guided Tour (Dunedin)
Adult: $35.00 NZD
No visitor to Dunedin should leave without taking the Speight’s Brewery Tour. Since 1876 the brewery has been proudly producing Speight’s legendary ales from the same site in Rattray Street. On the Speight’s Brewery Tour you’ll see, smell, touch and taste the ingredients that go into making Speight’s beers – and of course, get to sample “The Pride of the South” for yourself!
The Helicopter Line - Mountain Scenic Flight 40mins (Franz Josef)
Adult: $580.00 NZD
Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40-minute scenic flight. Cross the main divide for breathtaking views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook.
The Helicopter Line - Twin Glacier Flight 30mins (Franz Josef Glacier)
Adult: $425.00 NZD
From a mantle of pure white snow, massive rivers of ice wind their way down glacier valleys. Explore the glaciers, an incredible natural phenomenon on this 30-minute scenic flight. Highlights include a snow landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.
Dart River Jet (Queenstown)
NZ$299 Adult NZ$205 Child
A stimulating not-to-be missed journey into the Dart River Valley where mythology, heritage & fantasy meet reality. our Jet trip is an exhilarating and spectacular journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, with the only jet boat operator allowed on the Dart River.
Kiwi Birdlife Park (Queenstown)
Adult: $52.00 NZD
Child: $26.00 NZD
The Kiwi Birdlife Park is a wildlife sanctuary found in the heart of Queenstown. They hold and display over 20 species of native NZ wildlife in our 5 acre Park, all of which are part of nationally managed programmes. Your entry fee supports their conservation work. They offer guaranteed kiwi viewing in our specially constructed nocturnal houses, audio tours (available in English and Japanese; allow 45min), Conservation Shows (11am, 3pm; allow 30min) and Kiwi Feedings (10am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 4.30pm; allow 15min). They offer an all-day pass and the park can be enjoyed in all weather. Experience conservation in action!
Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour & Jet Boat (Skippers Canyon)
Adult $189 Child: $115
The Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour offers a great balance of stunning scenery and local history just a short drive from central Queenstown. The trip includes a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon via the infamous Skippers Road, on board commentary from knowledgeable drivers about the history of the area including the miners who battled the harsh New Zealand conditions to extract gold from the richest gold bearing river in the world.
Rotorua Duck - Tarawera and Lakes Tour (Rotorua)
Adult: $105.00 NZD
Child: $60.00 NZD
Discover Rotorua’s spectacular lakes area from the comfort of a fully restored World War II amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. A 90 minute fun-filled and scenic journey that ventures onto the three Rotorua lakes, and is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary.
Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (Te Anau)
NZ$119 Adult NZ$59 Child
2.5 hour tour incorporating a cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House. Enjoy a guided tour (in small groups) through the limestone caverns, waterfalls and the glow worm grotto. Complimentary tea & coffee is available at Cavern House
Wings Over Whales (Kaikoura)
Whale Watch 30min - NZ$225 Adult NZ$95 Child
Whale Watch & Scenic Tour 45min - NZ$350 Adult NZ$200 Child
Whale Watch 30min Depart from the Helipads straight over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary to view some of nature's most amazing marine life. Kaikōura is located on the migratory routes for Humpback whales, Southern right whales, Orca and even Blue whales depending on the time of year.
Whale Watch & Scenic Tour 45min - Our whale watching & scenic tour allows you extra time in the whale area to view the majestic Sperm whale and also gives you the scenic tour of the Kaikōura Seaward mountains and Kaikōura Peninsula.
Altitude Wine Tours - Queenstown Wine Sampler Tour (Queenstown)
Adult: $219.00 NZD
Did someone say Queenstown wine tour? It’s time to pinot! Travel in premium Mercedes vehicles visiting four of Central Otago’s finest and boutique cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. Look, smell and taste over 18 spectacular cool-climate wines and enjoy an optional scrumptious lunch (additional cost ordered on the day) whilst your charismatic wine guide and knowledgeable cellar staff educate and amuse you with local winemaking facts and stories.The 6 hour Wine Sampler tour departs Queenstown daily at 10 am and returns around 4 pm. This tour was judged the worlds best wine tour 2020-2021 by Tripadvisor, Best of the Best awards and the 4th best activity and tour in all of New Zealand.
Appellation Central Wine Tours - Gourmet Food & Wine Tour (Queenstown)
Adult: $269.00
Bread to Bottle Tour MTM Experience (Dunedin)
Adult: $25.00 NZD
Visit Dunedin Craft Distillers, the first distillery in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of only a handful worldwide, to produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwise go to landfill. Discover on this Make Travel Matter Experience, how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell do it in a ‘Bread to Bottle Tour’ which takes you through the process used to turn bread into spirits.
KJET (Queenstown)
NZ$135 Adult NZ$69 Child
Take on the mighty Shotover River with Kawarau Jet (KJet) – Queenstown’s original Jet boat ride. Only KJet offers a 60 minute Queenstown Jet boat experience with unforgettable thrills, spins & exhilaration across three waterways in one of the world’s most stunning locations.
Ko Tane Waka on Avon (Christchurch)
Adult: $55.00NZD
Child: $25.00NZD
Experience the excitement of paddling a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon and learn about the importance of the waka to Māori culture. Enjoy early stories of Canterbury's Ngāi Tahu iwi and the earliest European settlers, and the positive things they achieved building the city of Christchurch together.
Monarch Wildlife Cruise & Larnach Castle Tour (Dunedin)
NZ$160 Adult NZ$80 Child
Let your local driver take you on an exciting Otago Peninsula drive to New Zealand’s only castle. Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin. Join our invigorating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head, home to the world's only mainland nesting place of royal albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean and soar high above their hillside nests.
Trip Details
What's included
- Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Centrally located premium 3.5-star hotels
- National Park entrance fees
Dining
- • 13 Full Breakfasts
- • 1 Lunch
- • 4 Dinners
- • 2 Highlight Dinners
- • 1 Farewell Dinner
Flight Information
- Day 1: Flights to arrive by 4:00pm into Auckland Airport
What to Bring
- • Camera
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- • Water bottle
- • Warm layers in cooler months
Fitness Requirements
- •
Itinerary Download Itinerary
Auckland never fails to turn on the charm, as you’ll discover while exploring the city before meeting your fellow adventure-seekers. Arrive at your leisure and peruse waterfront precincts filled with yachts; take a cruise out to the wineries of Waiheke Island; or hit up the CBD to discover local designers. Kiwi creativity is surging.
Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Auckland
Another day in Auckland… things could be worse. After a morning Auckland tour, set your GPS for the Waikato River to Waitomo Caves. Here, your cruise route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. Tonight, delve deep into Maori culture and traditions at Te Puia. Your dinner, a hangi cooked underground, is served while you overlook the spectacular geothermal valley. The highlight is a Māori cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.
Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 Nights
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Highlight Dinner
We’re leaving you up to your own devices today. But have plenty of North Island tour travel tips, depending on your mood. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out in the steamy thermal springs at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes on a working kiwi nursery and hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans, but a gorgeous countryside getaway. The choice is yours.
Included Meals: Breakfast
A staggering 220,000 litres of water thunder over Huka Falls’ 11-metre-high escarpment every second. It creates quite the calamity. From here, the road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, its waters so vivid and blue they resemble an Ice Mint. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.
Hotel: Travelodge Wellington
Included Meals: Breakfast
Forget everything else you have to do today and focus on one thing: getting a cup of Wellington’s amazing coffee. The city is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Wellington tour done and dusted: onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets into the sleepy seaside village of Picton.
Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Black is the new black, as you’ll fast discover when walking along the dramatic ink-hued Kaikoura beach. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Talk to your Travel Director for tips on the essential restaurants to dine in tonight – Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one.
Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Included Meals: Breakfast
From its devastating 2010/11 earthquakes, Christchurch has become one of the most forward-thinking cities in the world when it comes to design. Case in point the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. This Christchurch tour is as eye-opening as it is educational. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Choose to take it in from the air for added perspective, on an optional chopper flight around the Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere.
Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Oamaru may have supplied other NZ cities with limestone, but it kept some for itself – and the result is glorious leafy streets with grand 1800s buildings that stand proud before you journey further south toward Dunedin. It’s easy to while away the afternoon in ‘little Edinburgh’s’ atmospheric art-lined alleys. Or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country – fur seals and penguins among them.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Included Meals: Breakfast
There’s no judgement that comes from a sleep-in. But if you have the energy, channel it into exploring Larnach Castle – the only one of its kind in the country. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep are replaced by soaring mountains as you weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau. Soak up the serenity – it doesn’t get any better than this.
Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
There are some travel days that blaze into your memory. Today is one. Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. Gin-clear rivers carve the countryside, with all roads leading to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Cruising this World Heritage listed expanse will give you goosebumps, a string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for dolphins – they’re a common sight here.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 Nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
Queenstown is known as NZ’s adventure capital for good reason. But don’t take our word for it. Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane Shotover Jet, skidding, twirling and zipping along white-water river. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Dinner
As if Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu wasn’t pretty enough, you have a parade of gleaming waterways to keep you company today. After departing the movie-set-perfect streets of Arrowtown, discover Lake Dunstan, surrounded by orchards where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere sparkles like a gem. You don’t get many opportunities in life to land and walk on a glacier. This afternoon is one.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Swap white at Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere for green at Hokitika: the pounamu (native jade) found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. In Māori tradition, it’s bad luck to buy this sacred stone for yourself; flutter your eyelids at your loved one. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys.
Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Two islands, two weeks. It’s remarkable what you can see when you have the right people guiding you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
New Zealand Vista
Best Buys
14 Day Guided Vacation
Auckland to Christchurch
You could spend eons exploring New Zealand’s North and South Islands. But you can also experience a New Zealand tour in two weeks – if you have the right advice. Follow us for Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere tours, train rides through alpine tundra, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruises in the company of dolphins and whales, glowing Waitomo Caves tours… and some down time amid wineries and city restaurants that take home awards.
Highlights
Flexible Vacations
Whether you like sky-high adventures – think, landing on a glacier – or prefer to keep your feet on the ground, we have a little black book of adventures ready to inspire.
Time For You
Free days in Queenstown and Rotorua means you can explore at leisure – thermal soaks and hiking slopes could be on the menu.
Iconic Sites
Within World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is the kind of place you expect to see on postcards. You’re here in real life.
Natural Wonders
Get your glow on at the Waitomo Caves, a magical subterranean world lit by thousands of glow-worms. Drift along and prepare to be dazzled.
Sustainable Travel
Enjoy your packed lunch today knowing that a donation is being made on your behalf to local charity Auckland City Mission, where real change can start with just one meal.
Accommodation
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
Optional Experiences
Please note, prices for Optional Experiences are subject to change.
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Experiences for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The experiences can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
Air Milford - Milford Sound Flight Back to Queenstown (Queenstown)
NZ$470 Adult NZ$375 Child
A scenic flight from Milford Sound to return back to Queenstown. During the 35 minute flight take in panoramic views of spectacular scenery including glaciers, rivers, lakes and rainforest. Returrn transport to Queenstown accommodation is included.
Air Safaris - Grand Traverse Scenic Flight (Mt Cook)
NZ$470 Adult NZ$375 Child
Explore the alpine wonderland of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks and glacial lakes on this 45-minute scenic flight, including Murchison Glacier, Tasman Glacier, Main Divide, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, westland coastal rainforests and Mount Cook.
Canopy Tours - The Original Canopy Tour (Rotorua)
NZ$179 Adult
NZ$149 Child
Canopy tours zipline adventure activity is an experience of a lifetime. You’ll be transported to a long forgotten ancient forest just like the whole of New Zealand once was. Experience a low impact mode of transport to get you high in the ancient canopy! In total there are 6 ziplines totalling more than 650 metres, the highlight for most being the jawdropping 220 metre tui song zipline that departs from 22 metres up a 1000 year old tree. Beat that for a setting! There are numerous treetop platforms at varying heights above the forest floor where you can observe and take in the magic of the environment around you.
Fiordland Jet - Pure Wilderness Jet Boat Experience (Te Anau)
$179 Adult
Explore Fiordland National Park, journey from the glistening lakefront in Te Anau to the quiet banks of the Waiau River, travelling the waters of the deserted shores of Lake Manapouri. Experience a hidden world framed by mountains and wild forest, steeped in natural beauty and rich in history. Embrace this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the remote isolation of Fiordland National Park, one of the largest protected areas in the world – famous for its conservation efforts.
Haast River Safari (Franz Josef Glacier)
NZ$119 Adult NZ$69 Child
Travel on a purpose built fully enclosed river jet boat with front-loading access. Great visibility is ensured, yet you remain warm, dry and comfortable, making this a unique and safe experience suitable for anyone of any age to participate in and enjoy.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua)
NZ$259 Adult NZ$194 Child
Travel from Rotorua to Matamata then onto Hobbiton for your tour of the move set with Hobbiton Tours. Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. You will be fully guided around the 12-acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit South-farthing beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.
Pure Glenorchy - Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour (road-Queenstown)
NZ$189 Adult NZ$99 Child
Lord of The Rings Scenic Tour: Visit the stunning locations from Lord of The Rings. Encounter lsengard, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains, Ithilien and many more. Experience the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley and our closest world heritage area. Learn about the remarkable history and unique culture of Glenorchy. Our tour feature’s some of the world’s most spectacular scenery visiting Mt Aspiring World Heritage Area, Glenorchy, The Dart River Valley and Paradise. Encounter ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys.
The Helicopter Line - Neve Discoverer Flight 20mins (Franz Josef Glacier)
Adult: $330.00 NZD
Lift off and fly up over the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier to land amongst this alpine wonderland on a 20-minute scenic flight. Highlights include landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and a snow or icefall landing.
Larnach Castle Tour (Dunedin)
NZ$91.00 Adult NZ$54.00 Child
Let your local driver take you on an exciting Otago Peninsula drive to New Zealand’s only castle. Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin.
City to Sea Tour (Dunedin )
Adult: $105.00 NZD
Child: $45.00 NZD
Meet our unique local wildlife and discover why Dunedin is NZ’s nature capital. Enjoy a special wildlife experience around Taiaroa Head and out to sea. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the royal albatross nesting colony, the world’s only mainland breeding site for albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean on three metre wings and then soar high above the hillside. The boat will get close to spectacular volcanic cliffs for postcard views of a historic lighthouse. Below the cliffs you’ll watch as NZ fur seals play, swim and interact around their breeding rookery. A short way out to sea and we may spot rarely seen ocean birds, like other albatross species, cormorants and petrels. On some trips we come across sea lions, blue penguins, dusky dolphins, hectors dolphins and other marine mammals.
Speights Brewery - Guided Tour (Dunedin)
Adult: $35.00 NZD
No visitor to Dunedin should leave without taking the Speight’s Brewery Tour. Since 1876 the brewery has been proudly producing Speight’s legendary ales from the same site in Rattray Street. On the Speight’s Brewery Tour you’ll see, smell, touch and taste the ingredients that go into making Speight’s beers – and of course, get to sample “The Pride of the South” for yourself!
The Helicopter Line - Mountain Scenic Flight 40mins (Franz Josef)
Adult: $580.00 NZD
Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40-minute scenic flight. Cross the main divide for breathtaking views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook.
The Helicopter Line - Twin Glacier Flight 30mins (Franz Josef Glacier)
Adult: $425.00 NZD
From a mantle of pure white snow, massive rivers of ice wind their way down glacier valleys. Explore the glaciers, an incredible natural phenomenon on this 30-minute scenic flight. Highlights include a snow landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.
Dart River Jet (Queenstown)
NZ$299 Adult NZ$205 Child
A stimulating not-to-be missed journey into the Dart River Valley where mythology, heritage & fantasy meet reality. our Jet trip is an exhilarating and spectacular journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, with the only jet boat operator allowed on the Dart River.
Kiwi Birdlife Park (Queenstown)
Adult: $52.00 NZD
Child: $26.00 NZD
The Kiwi Birdlife Park is a wildlife sanctuary found in the heart of Queenstown. They hold and display over 20 species of native NZ wildlife in our 5 acre Park, all of which are part of nationally managed programmes. Your entry fee supports their conservation work. They offer guaranteed kiwi viewing in our specially constructed nocturnal houses, audio tours (available in English and Japanese; allow 45min), Conservation Shows (11am, 3pm; allow 30min) and Kiwi Feedings (10am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 4.30pm; allow 15min). They offer an all-day pass and the park can be enjoyed in all weather. Experience conservation in action!
Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour & Jet Boat (Skippers Canyon)
Adult $189 Child: $115
The Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour offers a great balance of stunning scenery and local history just a short drive from central Queenstown. The trip includes a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon via the infamous Skippers Road, on board commentary from knowledgeable drivers about the history of the area including the miners who battled the harsh New Zealand conditions to extract gold from the richest gold bearing river in the world.
Rotorua Duck - Tarawera and Lakes Tour (Rotorua)
Adult: $105.00 NZD
Child: $60.00 NZD
Discover Rotorua’s spectacular lakes area from the comfort of a fully restored World War II amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. A 90 minute fun-filled and scenic journey that ventures onto the three Rotorua lakes, and is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary.
Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (Te Anau)
NZ$119 Adult NZ$59 Child
2.5 hour tour incorporating a cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House. Enjoy a guided tour (in small groups) through the limestone caverns, waterfalls and the glow worm grotto. Complimentary tea & coffee is available at Cavern House
Wings Over Whales (Kaikoura)
Whale Watch 30min - NZ$225 Adult NZ$95 Child
Whale Watch & Scenic Tour 45min - NZ$350 Adult NZ$200 Child
Whale Watch 30min Depart from the Helipads straight over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary to view some of nature's most amazing marine life. Kaikōura is located on the migratory routes for Humpback whales, Southern right whales, Orca and even Blue whales depending on the time of year.
Whale Watch & Scenic Tour 45min - Our whale watching & scenic tour allows you extra time in the whale area to view the majestic Sperm whale and also gives you the scenic tour of the Kaikōura Seaward mountains and Kaikōura Peninsula.
Altitude Wine Tours - Queenstown Wine Sampler Tour (Queenstown)
Adult: $219.00 NZD
Did someone say Queenstown wine tour? It’s time to pinot! Travel in premium Mercedes vehicles visiting four of Central Otago’s finest and boutique cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. Look, smell and taste over 18 spectacular cool-climate wines and enjoy an optional scrumptious lunch (additional cost ordered on the day) whilst your charismatic wine guide and knowledgeable cellar staff educate and amuse you with local winemaking facts and stories.The 6 hour Wine Sampler tour departs Queenstown daily at 10 am and returns around 4 pm. This tour was judged the worlds best wine tour 2020-2021 by Tripadvisor, Best of the Best awards and the 4th best activity and tour in all of New Zealand.
Appellation Central Wine Tours - Gourmet Food & Wine Tour (Queenstown)
Adult: $269.00
Monarch Wildlife Cruise & Larnach Castle Tour (Dunedin)
NZ$160 Adult NZ$80 Child
Let your local driver take you on an exciting Otago Peninsula drive to New Zealand’s only castle. Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin. Join our invigorating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head, home to the world's only mainland nesting place of royal albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean and soar high above their hillside nests.
Bread to Bottle Tour MTM Experience (Dunedin)
Adult: $25.00 NZD
Visit Dunedin Craft Distillers, the first distillery in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of only a handful worldwide, to produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwise go to landfill. Discover on this Make Travel Matter Experience, how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell do it in a ‘Bread to Bottle Tour’ which takes you through the process used to turn bread into spirits.
KJET (Queenstown)
NZ$135 Adult NZ$69 Child
Take on the mighty Shotover River with Kawarau Jet (KJet) – Queenstown’s original Jet boat ride. Only KJet offers a 60 minute Queenstown Jet boat experience with unforgettable thrills, spins & exhilaration across three waterways in one of the world’s most stunning locations.
Ko Tane Waka on Avon (Christchurch)
Adult: $55.00NZD
Child: $25.00NZD
Experience the excitement of paddling a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon and learn about the importance of the waka to Māori culture. Enjoy early stories of Canterbury's Ngāi Tahu iwi and the earliest European settlers, and the positive things they achieved building the city of Christchurch together.