9 Day Land of the Rings Independent Coach

Rotorua Duck Tours - City & Lakes Tour
You haven’t seen Rotorua until you’ve seen it from a Duck. Discover Rotorua in the most unique way possible with the City and Lakes Tour. This unique 90 minute sightseeing adventure takes place on land and water, on-board our WWII amphibious Duck. Unlike any other tour in Rotorua, the duck tour is the best way to see the city and experience the beauty of the surrounding lake district all at once.

Your tour begins right in the heart of the city where you will discover the sights and sounds, and learn all about the rich history and diversity that makes Rotorua such a unique destination. With your conDUCKtor you will venture out of town to the spectacular lake’s district where you will see magnificent views of Mt Tarawera and splashdown into Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Okareka.

Air New Zealand flight Rotorua to Christchurch

On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Christchurch accommodation.

Stay 2 nights Christchurch

Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday. See how this spectacular mountain was transformed into Edoras - the capital city of the Rohan people from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Marvel at its rugged unspoilt beauty and breathe in the clear mountain air, while you indulge in a gourmet champagne picnic.

Today you head into the heart of the South Island. First crossing the vast Canterbury Plains , then you enter the MacKenzie Country home to large high country sheep stations. The picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, is the first of the large Southern Lakes on your journey and you’ll enjoy a short stop here to take in the picturesque lake and one of the most photographed buildings in the country, the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Continue on to Lake Pukaki where on clear days you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Mt Cook towering over the lake. The scenic drive along the lake delivers you into the heart of the national park and Mt. Cook Village.

At Mt Cook Village can enjoy a gourmet lunch (own expense) at the famous Hermitage Hotel. After lunch you’ll have time to explore the village and soak up the view. Alternatively you can experience a scenic helicopter or ski plane flight for incredible views of mountain peaks and glaciers (additional cost, weather permitting – this flight can be arranged with your driver guide on the day).

Twizel, just south of Mt. Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama where a short afternoon tea stop is available (own expense). Crossing the Lindis Pass this is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres, you pass from the Mackenzie Basin into Central Otago. The next major town is Cromwell, a major fruit growing region, which sits at the head of the Kawarau Gorge. If time allows you’ll visit the Jones Family Orchard, where you can sample the local produce from Cromwell and surrounds. Follow the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Queenstown and the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions.

Approaching Queenstown the impressive Remarkables mountain range come into view and then beautiful Lake Wakatipu as you head towards the adventure and activity capital of New Zealand.

Stay 3 nights Queenstown

This full day guided tour will take you deep into Lord of the Rings country to explore the sights and scenes at a number of key filming locations. Along the way you’ll enjoy some of the finest scenery in the world and have fun acting out your favourite scenes from the movies. Your guide will share their passion for the Lord of the Rings as well as the spectacular landscape you pass through. You’ll also get to examine a range of fascinating weapons and costumes. Lunch is included.

Safari of the Scenes Wakatipu Basin tour
For those keen on the Hobbit and Lord of The Rings films, come with us for an unexpectedly delightful journey. In safari-equipped 4WD vehicles, you will be taken on a true off-road adventure. Experienced guides will take you on a breathtaking excursion through diverse scenery around the Wakatipu Basin. See historic Arrowtown and go over the Arrow River, as well as experiencing the truly remarkable views of the lake and mountain surround from the Skippers Canyon Saddle.

Free day in Queenstown
Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head down the Gibbston valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. And after all of that - if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or White Water rafting.

Following the shores of Lake Wakatipu south the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach township of Kingston. Then into Southland and rolling fertile farm country. Crossing the rolling tussock lands you pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand and into Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Jet Boating Fiordland National Park
This is a one hour jet boat tour down the Upper Waiau River to beautiful Lake Manapouri in the Fiordland National Park World Heritage Area. During the tour your boat driver tells you about the history and geography of the area and you also have the opportunity to view 3 Lord of the Rings film locations, as the Waiau River was used to depict the River Anduin. Once on Lake Manapouri you experience the peace, tranquility and breathtaking beauty of the lake and snow-capped mountains. On the return journey you may see both brown and rainbow trout in the deep clear pools of the river.

Stay 1 night Te Anau

From Te Anau, you travel by coach along the spectacular Milford Road. Photo stops are made on the way into Milford, with additional photo stops and a short walk on the return journey. Real Journeys experienced drivers enjoy sharing their knowledge of the area. On reaching Milford Sound, you join a Nature Cruise for a leisurely cruise the full-length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. A nature guide provides fascinating interpretation throughout the cruise. Lunch options and complimentary tea and coffee are available on board the vessel.

Milford Sound cruise
An extended and leisurely cruise of Milford Sound on board a modern vessel, purpose built for operating in a fiord environment. Designed along the lines of a traditional trading scow, they have real character. These relaxing cruises have special appeal for the independent traveller and an on board nature guide provides detailed interpretation and commentary. There is plenty of time available to explore points of interest and to view the stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rainforest and the towering peaks. Keep a lookout for dolphins, seals and penguins. Includes picnic boxed lunch.
Stay 1 night Queenstown

Your tour comes to a conclusion this morning as soon as you check out. Your hotel can store your luggage should you wish to spend a few more hours exploring Queenstown before returning home.