Day by Day

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Be met and transferred to your hotel, which is centrally located in the harbourside city of Auckland, ‘The City of Sails’. The rest of today is at leisure to relax and explore this beautiful city.

Staying at Copthorne Hotel Auckland City
 

Daily Meals Include:

• Dinner
   

Day 2 Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua

Like a Local - We discover the magical spectacle of Waitomo Caves. The Waitomo region is home to the famous glowworm caves, where thousands of these tiny creatures radiate an enchanting light, within an underground labyrinth of limestone caves and formations. Later continue on to explore the geological wonders and cultural significance of Rotorua. A Taste of New Zealand - Tonight, you’ll enjoy a Maori Hangi-style feast with performances of song and dance.

Staying for 2 nights at Copthorne Hotel Rotorua

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast
• Dinner
   

Day 3 Rotorua

Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, rich heritage and stunning scenery. Visit one of New Zealand’s best-loved attractions; the Agrodome, and enjoy an entertaining sheep shearing demonstration. Then, continue to Te Puia Thermal Reserve for a guided tour through the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and to learn about the famous geysers. Later, perhaps take an optional helicopter flight for spectacular views over the active White Island volcano. Alternatively, experience life on the land with a special Country Homestay (the heli-flight and homestay are at your own expense).

Homestay available at additional charge.

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast

Day 4 Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington

Departing Rotorua today, we travel through a region, which is abundant with geothermal activity, crystal-clear lakes and streams, natural spas and rich Maori culture. We visit Lake Taupo and thundering Huka Falls with its striking blue water. Then travel further south across the vast volcanic plateau of World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park en route to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.

Staying in Wellington, Hotel Ibis.

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast

Day 8 Queenstown, Day at Leisure

Queenstown is perfect for adventurers and leisure-seekers alike with endless activities on offer. You may wish to join the TSS Earnslaw for a cruise to Walter Peak Station or perhaps take a gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak for views over Queenstown (own expense). Situated on the shores of serene Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is also the perfect destination to simply relax and enjoy your surrounds.

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast

Day 9 Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, Te Anau

Today, follow the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu to Fiordland National Park. Journey along the Milford Road, considered to be one of the world’s best alpine drives, to Milford Sound. Like a Local - Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, a mighty fiord with views of cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest, sheer cliffs and the surrounding mountains of this World Heritage-listed area.

Staying at Te Anau, The Village Inn

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast
• Dinner

Day 10 Te Anau, Dunedin

Leaving the Fiordland region, today, you will journey through rolling Southland countryside before arriving in Dunedin - South Island’s second largest city. Take a tour of the city, which enjoys an architectural blend of both historic and modern sights, as well as the country’s oldest university. Later on, we visit Larnach Castle, which is New Zealand’s only castle and home to the Baker family. They have spent over forty years restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 14 hectares of gardens and grounds. Take in breathtaking views from Larnach Castle to Dunedin, and wander through the exquisite gardens. True to its name, the city of Dunedin enjoys a proud and unique Scottish Heritage. A Taste of New Zealand - Tonight, absorb the flavour and character of Dunedin as you experience a special Scottish-themed evening at your hotel.

Staying at Mercure Dunedin Leisure Lodge

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast
• Dinner

Day 11 Dunedin, Lake Ohau

Journey along the east coast to see the Moeraki Boulders. These large spherical stones, formed over 60 million years ago, can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach on the Otago Coast. Then, continue on to the lovely harbour town of Oamaru, where you’ll see some of New Zealand’s finest 19th-century architecture, providing a glimpse into times gone by. Like a Local - Later, en route to Lake Ohau, admire the magnificent mountains of Mt Cook National Park. Followed by A Taste of New Zealand - This evening, enjoy a High Country feast at picturesque Lake Ohau.

Staying at Dunedin, Lake Ohau

Daily Meals Include:

• Breakfast
• Dinner

Day 12 Lake Tekapo, Depart Christchurch

Travel to beautiful Lake Tekapo and visit the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, which is situated on the lake shore and was built as a tribute to the region’s early pioneers. Our tour concludes on arrival at Christchurch airport.