The Ultimate New Zealand Adventure

Upon arrival at Auckland Airport (AKL), you’ll be greeted by your driver, who will transfer you to your accommodation. Auckland, situated on New Zealand’s North Island, is not only the country’s largest city but also a vibrant cultural hub nestled amidst stunning natural beauty. Known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland is renowned for its picturesque harbors, including the Waitematā Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf, which offer ample opportunities for sailing, boating, and enjoying waterfront activities. The city’s landscape is characterized by volcanic cones, such as Mount Eden and One Tree Hill, providing panoramic views of the surrounding region.

This morning, we’ll depart New Zealand’s largest city and drive a couple of hours south to Waitomo (‘wai’ meaning water, ‘tomo’ meaning hole), known for its world-famous glowworm caves.  Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature’s light display. Explore the cave by foot before embarking on a boat ride, gliding silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Experience the serene ambience as you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights. The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand, making the Waitomo Glowworm Caves an absolute must-do. See thousands of these tiny creatures as they radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in a subterranean world.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves tours are made up of two levels. The upper chamber is dry and decorated with stunning, delicate cave formations, and the lower level consists of stream passages, glowworms, and the Cathedral, the tallest chamber in the cave.

Many of the guides are direct descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave, bringing the cave to life through storytelling and explaining the world-famous cave’s history, features, and legends.

For those looking for a bit more adventure, you’ll also have the option of choosing an optional tour for a thrilling caving adventure.

Note: If choosing an optional activity, you will do this INSTEAD of the Glow Worm Caves Boat Tour

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN WAITOMO:

Blackwater Rafting  – Explore the magic Tumu Tumu Cave. Combine the best elements of Blackwater rafting with walking, climbing, swimming, and tubing through distinctive sections of the spectacular Tumu Tumu cave. A more comprehensive version of Black Water Rafting.

Lost World Half Day  – Abseil 100m into the surreal Lost World. Descend slowly, suspended in the massive void. Mist-filtered light gives unreal qualities to the strange plants and formations. Then embark on an underworld trek and climb back through the majestic dry passages of the Mangapu cave system.

Haggas Honking Holes Abseiling & Rock Climbing – Feel like Indiana Jones in a washing machine. Haggas Honking Holes is a very exciting fast-moving action. It’s an adventure that crams lots of action into only 4 hours. See unique formations and glowworms close up. Waitomo’s most concentrated half-day adventure.

After breakfast, we’ll start the day with a 45-minute walk through the Ruakuri Reserve, a real highlight of the Waitomo area. This spectacular loop walk takes you through a forested gorge, past natural sculpted cliffs, and under low limestone arches. The track follows the stream and winds up around a network of limestone bluffs and outcrops before descending to the Ruakuri Natural Bridge viewing platform.

Next, we’ll roll on through to Rotorua, a captivating destination renowned for its geothermal wonders, rich Māori culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Stepping into Rotorua feels like entering a realm where the earth comes alive, with bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and vibrant geothermal landscapes dotting the region.

This evening, experience the most award-winning Maori cultural attraction in New Zealand, voted one of the Top 10 Experiences in the World. This is a cultural experience like no other. Delivered with genuine heart and soul, the Te Pa Tu Cultural Experience offers a window into a truly riveting, spirited way of life. Experience an evening of ceremonial ritual, amazing re-enactment, powerful cultural performance, storytelling, and hangi feasting as we relive significant events within our pre-European history. Immerse yourself in the traditional Maori way of life during this interactive and entertaining evening experience with dinner.

INCLUDED:
— Ruakuri Reserve Walk
— Te Pa Tu Cultural Experience

The surrounding landscape of Rotorua invites exploration, with lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and thrilling outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and ziplining. Today, you’ll have the day free to choose your own adventure.

If you enjoy mountain biking, Rotorua is one of the world’s top mountain biking destinations, offering an extensive network of trails catering to riders of all skill levels. From flowing singletracks through towering redwoods to technical downhill descents and gravity-defying jumps, there’s something for everyone in Rotorua’s diverse trail system.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN ROTORUA: 

Kaituna River Whitewater Rafting – Get your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating Class V whitewater rafting trip through breathtaking scenery. As the raft navigates the churning waters, adrenaline surges with each twist and turn, and the thrill of conquering roaring rapids like “Tutea Falls,” the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, adds to the excitement. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don’t forget to paddle!

Whitewater Rafting + Hot Pools Combo – The ultimate combo. White water rafting on the Kaituna river followed by a soak in the hot pools at Manupiua Springs Hot Pools.

Okere Zipline – The ultimate ziplining experience over 3 waterfalls on a total of four ziplines, one swing bridge, and a series of boardwalks within the Okere Falls forest.

Rafting + Zipline Combo – The ultimate in combos in Ōkere Falls. Zip over the Kaituna River with Rotorua Ziplines, then raft it.

Okere Zip + Hot Pools – Add a soak at the Lake Rotoiti Hotpools to your Okere Zipline adventure.

Zipline + Rafting + Hot Pools Combo – The ultimate combo is Ziplining over waterfalls, white water on the Kaituna River, followed by a soak in the hot pools at Manupiua Springs Hot Pools which are only accessible by boat.

Mt Tarawera Full Day (6.5 hours) or Half Day (4.5 hours) – Famous for its eruption in June 1886, Mt Tarawera created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu, at the same destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces. This fully guided walking experience encompasses the unique landscape and history of the area. Get ready to see unmatched 360 panoramic views and go for an optional run into the heart of a volcanic crater!

Mt Tarawera & Rafting Combo – Combine the unique crater walking experience with rafting on the Kaituna River. An all-day combo taking you from the volcanic crater of Mt Tarawera, to the Okere section of the Kaituna River, where you will raft the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, take on 14 rapids with world-class guides and gear.

Note: Please be aware that since today is a free day, we will try to accommodate transportation as best we can, but you may need to take an Uber to/from the meeting point of  your scheduled activity. 

This morning, we’ll explore the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, where you’ll witness the power of geothermal activity as Pohutu, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, erupts up to 30m high every hour. Explore the thermal valley full of hot springs, silica terraces, bubbling mineral-rich mud pools, and other pools with properties used over centuries by the Maori for cooking and remedies.

Enjoy Thanksgiving lunch at Te Puia against a backdrop of geysers and stunning park views as you enjoy a range of Kiwi flavors at Pataka Kai Restaurant, infusing traditional Maori flavors with an array of global cuisines and cooking styles. Be sure to try the Hangi Chicken and Hangi vegetables served with rewana bread stuffing and finished off with burnt brown sugar steamed pudding.

After lunch, we’ll drive approximately one hour to the great Lake Taupo. Upon arriving in Lake Taupo, we’ll stop to take a walk to the spectacular Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most visited and photographed natural attraction. The thundering 11m high falls on the Waikato River pump a volume of 220,000 liters of water over the rock face every second. There are walking tracks and viewing platforms alongside the river and the water is a beautiful crystal-clear blue on a sunny day. 

This evening, we’ll discover the Maori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupo on a Sunset Sailing Cruise. Taupo Bay’s Maori Rock Carvings are a must-see attraction, only accessible by boat. You will get up close to the 14m high rock art for amazing photo opportunities and catch the sunset on the way back. Swimming is encouraged if the weather is nice, so make sure you come prepared.

INCLUDED:
— Te Puia Geothermal Wonderland (90min guided tour + Lunch Buffet)
— Sunset Sail Barbary Cruise to Maori Rock Carvings

This morning, we’ll have a fairly early departure for our drive to Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual UNESCO World Heritage area due to its natural features and cultural significance. In autumn 2000, the park was home to the most sinister of the Lord of the Rings locations, Mordor. The area has jagged volcanic rock formations and eerie, barren landscapes.

We’ll stop along the way to pick up a takeaway lunch. Upon arrival at the park, we’ll split into groups to spend the day hiking through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular volcanic landscapes. One group will do an easier hike and the other will do a more strenuous hike.

Depending on the weather, you may also have the option to do a guided hike of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, heralded as the best one-day trek in New Zealand and regarded as among the top ten single-day treks in the world. The 12-mile hike includes some steep climbs, and the weather can be unpredictable, but worth it in every aspect.

This evening, we won’t have far to drive as our accommodations are located within the National Park Village.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK:

Tongariro Alpine Crossing – The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park is heralded as the best one-day trek in New Zealand and is regarded as among the top ten single-day treks in the world. The 12.3-mile point-to-point trail includes some steep climbs and is considered a challenging route. There are sections of the hike that are considered active volcano areas. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions on the route, and always have warm layers available as the peaks often have 10-15 degrees cooler temperatures. The walking is generally straightforward, but the extreme weather and potential for a full 7-10 hours to complete earn this track the “hard” rating.

After breakfast, we’ll depart Tongariro, winding our way through the picturesque countryside, passing rolling hills dotted with sheep and cattle grazing in lush pastures. The road follows the meandering path of the Whanganui River, one of New Zealand’s longest navigable waterways, offering glimpses of its tranquil waters framed by verdant hillsides. Eventually, the road leads to Pipiriki, a small riverside settlement nestled amidst the beauty of the Whanganui National Park, where travelers can embark on adventures such as jet boating, kayaking, or exploring the region’s rich Māori heritage.

Upon arrival in Pipiriki, we’ll set out on a 55-minute jet boat journey upriver 32km to the Mangapurua Landing, through an area of spectacular natural features with deep river gorges covered with green tree ferns and lush native vegetation. With your guide, you’ll take an easy 40-minute walk from the Mangapurua landing, following in the footsteps of the early pioneers along the old roadway to the “BRIDGE TO NOWHERE” where you will stop for lunch on this historical monument of a bygone era and learn the history from your local guide.​

The tour then includes a Jet boat back down the river for 22 km followed by an unguided 2-hour canoe or kayak (last 10 km) back to Pipiriki, stopping and exploring along the way.

After our return to Pipiriki, we’ll have about a 2-hour drive south to Whanganui City, a charming urban center with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings. Art lovers will be pleased to learn that Whanganui has been named as New Zealand’s only UNESCO City of Design, in recognition of the city’s contribution to art and creativity.

INCLUDED:
— Bridge to Nowhere Jet Boat & Canoe Tour (6-7 hours)

After an early breakfast (not included), we’ll start our 2.5 hour drive amidst the rolling hills and farmlands of the Manawatū region, passing charming rural towns before reaching the dramatic Kapiti Coast, with its rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Continuing southward, the road winds through lush forests and steep hillsides of the Hutt Valley, culminating in a breathtaking descent into Wellington, with panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline. This scenic drive showcases the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty, from coastal vistas to mountain ranges, offering an unforgettable journey to the capital city.

Wellington is a compact and walkable city. With a downtown area only 2 km across, most of the major attractions are within easy walking distance from the hotels, cafés, restaurants, bars, and shops. The city, originally founded by English settlers in the 1840s, is split into four quarters – Lambton Quay, the best place for shopping; the business area Courtenay Place; the entertainment district Cuba Street, full of cafés and vintage clothing stores that give the neighborhood a bohemian, alternative vibe; and Waterfront Quarter, which takes in Frank Kitts Park, Waitangi Park, Queens Wharf, and Te Papa.

You’ll have the afternoon free to explore this incredible city. Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden-sand inner-city beach, and delve into many museums, art galleries, and theatre shows that make up the city’s pulsing cultural scene. There are beautiful walks around the harbor and the surrounding hills. Ride the cable car up the hill to Kelbourn for amazing views over the city and enjoy an ice cream at the top. For fans of film and TV, the Wētā Workshop is a world-renowned creative studio in Wellington, New Zealand, where movie magic comes to life through award-winning props, costumes, and special effects for films like The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and District 9. Visit the wildlife sanctuary, Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary and groundbreaking conservation project that has reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife back into the area, some of which were absent from the mainland for over 100 years. On the waterfront itself, you’ll find Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, New Zealand’s national museum. Te Papa, as it is colloquially known, means ‘our place’ and is one of the best interactive museums in the world. If you’re a beer lover, Wellington is becoming world-famous for its craft beer scene. Stop in one of the local breweries or take a guided tour with tastings. For sunset, climb to the top of Mount Victoria (196m) for the best views of Wellington City and Wellington Harbor.

This morning, we’ll have an early morning departure with a box breakfast to be transferred to the Wellington Airport for our flight to Queenstown. Upon arrival in Queenstown, we’ll be met at the airport for our transfer to our hotel where we can drop off our bags until check-in time and head out for lunch nearby.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is a world-renowned destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Often referred to as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown offers an exhilarating array of outdoor activities, from bungee jumping and skydiving to jet boating and white-water rafting. Beyond its adrenaline-fueled reputation, Queenstown also boasts stunning natural beauty, with pristine alpine lakes, towering mountains, and lush forests providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor exploration. The charming town center is brimming with lively cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, while nearby vineyards offer opportunities to sample world-class Central Otago wines.

You’ll have the rest of the day free to explore this charming town on your own and partake in any adventure you choose. Whether seeking thrills or tranquility amidst nature, Queenstown has it all!

If you can imagine it, you can do it in Queenstown. The city’s stunning natural surroundings and varied terrain, including mountains, rivers, and lakes, provide a wealth of opportunities for thrill-seekers of all levels.

Some of the activities that Queenstown is known for include bungee jumping, skydiving, kayaking, jet boating, rafting, hiking, climbing, river surfing, sledging, kite skiing, parasailing, paragliding, hang gliding, snow sports, and mountain biking. It’s an adventure lovers’ paradise, and you’ll have the day free to choose your adventure.

Starting its life as a gold mining camp in the 1860s, central Queenstown is today a compact area with a friendly, yet ‘grown-up’ feel. Its narrow streets are lined with plentiful bars, restaurants,  and local shops.

This afternoon, we’ll board a scenic cruise on the vintage TSS Earnslaw to the Walter Peak Farm, situated on the picturesque Lake Whakatipu’s southwestern shores. The Walter Peak High Country Farm is steeped in history. Its sheltered bays were used as camping sites by Maori traveling to the Mararoa and Oreti Rivers on Moa hunting and pounamu (greenstone) gathering expeditions.

Upon arrival at the charming Walter Peak High Country Farm, guests are welcomed with warm hospitality and stunning alpine views. The highlight is a gourmet BBQ dinner served at the Colonel’s Homestead—a feast of locally sourced meats, fresh salads, and decadent desserts prepared by top chefs. After dinner, enjoy a farm demonstration showcasing traditional sheep shearing and working dog skills before cruising back under the stars.

Today, we’ll have an early morning departure from Queenstown to visit New Zealand’s highest peak and longest glacier at Mount Cook National Park. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

Departing Queenstown, we’ll make our way through the Kawarau Gorge, passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time permitting, we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

Exiting the Kawarau Gorge, we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Cromwell was established by gold miners, but now its treasure is stone fruit. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this beautiful lake towards Lindis Pass.

Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we’ll stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass for an essential photo.

While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district, we will spot several of the famous Merino breeds of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama, we’ll have time for a break and try the best creamy chicken pie in New Zealand!

Turning west, we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park, and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/ Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We’ll stop for some amazing photos and just marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many “Lord of the Rings” scenes were filmed nearby.

Arriving at Mt. Cook Village, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself. At 3724m (12,200ft), Aoraki/ Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. While in the park, we’ll do the Hooker Valley hike – thought to be one of New Zealand’s most beautiful hikes or if weather permits, opt for the Heli Hike on the Tasman Glacier, the ultimate way to enjoy the area.

As we leave Aoraki/ Mt. Cook Village and return to Queenstown, we’ll make a stop at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

We’ll also make a stop at Mrs Jones Suncrest Orchard to try or buy her fabulous and delicious local baked goods, fresh honey, and ice cream.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AT MT COOK:
Heli-Hike on Tasman Glacier (weather dependent) – The heli-hike on Tasman Glacier from Mt Cook offers a thrilling adventure amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. After a breathtaking helicopter flight over snow-capped peaks and expansive glaciers, adventurers touch down on the pristine ice of the Tasman Glacier. Guided by experienced professionals, hikers navigate through a surreal world of crevasses, ice formations, and towering seracs, gaining insight into the glacier’s fascinating geology and history. Against the backdrop of the rugged mountains, each step on the glacier unveils a new perspective of this frozen wilderness. With the crisp mountain air filling their lungs and the grandeur of the alpine scenery surrounding them, participants in this heli-hike embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand’s iconic landscapes. 

This morning, we’ll be picked up for our 2.5-hour drive to Te Anau. Along the way, we’ll stop in the charming town of Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and a taste of heritage. Then, head into the Gibbston Valley, known as the “Valley of the Vines,” where you can indulge in a wine tasting and lunch at the Gibbston Valley Winery, one of Central Otago’s premier vineyards.

Upon arrival in the lakeside town of Te Anau, the Gateway to Fiordland National Park, settle into your accommodations, a former convent, and then head out to explore the lake and the town. The town itself exudes a serene charm, with its picturesque lakefront setting and surrounding mountains creating a captivating backdrop. Te Anau offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, kayaking, and scenic cruises on Lake Te Anau.

There are many beautiful walks in the area, or you can also choose to rent a bike and do the Lake2Lake bike trail. This 28.5km (Grade 2, Easy) offers a unique experience, making its way alongside the stunning Lake Te Anau and the East side of the Waiau River towards Lake Manapouri with incredible views and plenty of photo stops. There are also glowworm caves in Te Anau that offer tours, and the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is home to some of New Zealand’s rarest and most famous species of birds. For dinner, dine at cozy local restaurants or a lakeside bistro.

This morning, after a hearty breakfast, we’ll depart Te Anau for the  2.5 hour drive to Milford Sound, recently ranked as the world’s most beautiful place and a must-do for anyone visiting the South Island. The road to Milford Sound is stunning! It’s a visual feast of spectacular waterfalls, mountain ranges, and wildlife. On our journey, you will discover why Milford Sound is the 8th wonder of the world.

You’ll travel along the renowned Milford Road—one of the most scenic alpine drives in the world. Along the way, enjoy a series of curated photo and nature stops that showcase the dramatic beauty of Fiordland National Park.

Leaving Te Anau and entering Fiordland National Park, we stop in Eglinton Valley, where flat golden tussocks are framed by towering glacier-carved cliffs. With views worthy of Lord of the Rings, this valley follows the path of an ancient glacier through Fiordland, one of the first major attractions as you enter the park. It really sets the scene for a journey that only gets more impressive the deeper you go.

Our next stop on this epic adventure is Mirror Lakes for a short stroll to see the famous reflections of the Earl Mountains. Get the right day, take a good picture, and no one will be able to tell which way is the right way up for the photo.

Continuing along the Milford Road, our next stop is Lake Gunn, named after a famous explorer and popular for fishing. Take in the peaceful atmosphere of native beech forest and shimmering water. Net, a stop at Monkey Creek offers a chance to sip pure glacier water.

A short drive away, we start passing the Hollyford River, a gorgeous and powerful river full of large boulders and rapids. Feeding into the river at Falls Creek is the first of our extremely impressive waterfalls in the area, one of many to come.

Climbing in altitude, we go deeper into the Darran Mountains, and these views require another stop to admire and take photos. We are also entering the area where Kea (the world’s largest alpine parrot) lives. Start keeping an eye out for these large, cheeky, and colorful birds that never fail to thrill and entertain when found.

To make our way back down towards the sea, we enter the mind-blowing, hand-built Homer Tunnel, an engineering marvel that leads you into a dramatic world of towering peaks and plunging valleys. Emerge on the other side to panoramic views of the Cleddau Valley, a final teaser before arriving at magnificent Milford Sound, where your cruise adventure begins.

This drive is not just transportation—it’s an immersive prelude to the wild grandeur of Fiordland.

Upon arrival at the cruise terminal, you’ll board the iconic Milford Mariner for an unforgettable overnight cruise. As the day-trippers depart and the fjord returns to stillness, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rainforest. 

Step aboard this purpose-built vessel and settle into your cozy private cabin before setting sail through the length of Milford Sound, all the way to the Tasman Sea. Along the way, the knowledgeable crew will share insights into the region’s geology, wildlife, and Māori legends.

In the late afternoon, the Mariner anchors in a sheltered cove where you can choose to explore by kayak or tender boat, or simply relax on deck with a glass of wine as you listen to the sounds of nature echoing off the fjord walls. Keep an eye out for fur seals, penguins, and even bottlenose dolphins.

As evening falls, enjoy a freshly prepared three-course dinner in the dining saloon, then stargaze from the upper deck under one of the clearest skies in New Zealand.

INCLUDED:
— Fiordland National Park Tour & Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

In the morning, wake to the serene hush of the fjord and a hearty breakfast as the boat gently cruises back to the harbor, where you will disembark and begin your scenic return journey back to Queenstown.

Travel by comfortable coach along the stunning Milford Road, retracing your route through Fiordland National Park with photo stops at highlights like Monkey Creek, the Eglinton Valley, and Mirror Lakes. Sit back, unwind, and take in the dramatic alpine landscapes as you journey through Te Anau and the rolling Southland countryside, arriving back in Queenstown in the early evening—refreshed, inspired, and full of epic memories.

Today is departure day and at the appropriate time, you will be taken to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination.