Overview
Embark on a road less travelled adventure in this special small group New Zealand tour, and experience country hospitality and unspoiled nature in the wild. We learn about authentic Maori culture around Rotorua in North Island, and see Tongariro National Park up close. In the South Island, we explore the surroundings of Mount Cook and experience the magic of Milford Sound by land, sea and air. We also swap stories with locals over exclusive lunches at a mid-Canterbury farmhouse, Lake Tarawera, and Lake Wanaka.
Included Activities & Entrance Fees
- Visit a working Kiwifruit orchard, meet the growers and taste the fruit fresh off the vine.
- Experience the thrill of a scenic boat-cruise across Lake Rotoiti on the luxury 16 metre yacht ‘Tuia'.
- Meet the locals and learn about their Maori and European ancestors at Lake Tarawera.
- Explore an ancient geothermal wonderland at Wai-O-Tapu.
- Enjoy a breathtaking three hour scenic cruise on the Interislander ferry across the Cook Strait, up the Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton.
- Taste wines in Marlborough, a premier wine-growing region in the South Island.
- Take a cruise to the golden sands of the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Meet a South Island farming family on a working sheep and beef farm and enjoy their warm hospitality.
- Explore the world-famous Milford Sound on a 2.5 hour nature and wildlife cruise.
- Take flight high above the majestic Southern Alps as we fly from Milford Sound to Queenstown on a fabulous scenic flight.
- Toast your last Kiwi sunset with your friends on the beach at Punakaiki.
Included Sightseeing and Exploring
- Travel the dramatic highway through the Karangahake Gorge.
- Discover Rotorua’s impressive lakes; Rotoiti and Tarawera.
- Enjoy all the highlights of Rotorua, its cultural and geothermal activities.
- See the powerful Huka Falls and the Wairakei geothermal power station.
- See three of New Zealand’s active volcanoes with views across Lake Taupo.
- Explore the sights of Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city.
- Stand on the edge of paradise with a visit to Lake Tekapo and the snow-capped, glacier filled Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
- See landscapes change before your eyes as we drive over the Lindis Pass and Kawarau Gorge.
- Explore untouched remote wilderness in Fiordland, Mt Aspiring, Tai Poutini Westland and Arthur’s Pass National Parks.
- Learn about the history of gold-mining in leafy Arrowtown.
- Take in sights of the three Great Southern Lakes - Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea.
- Stroll in Haast Pass’ where the natural wonders of this secluded area of New Zealand will delight.
- View Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, two of the most easily accessible glaciers in the world.
- Watch as the Tasman Sea meets the Punakaiki Pancake rocks, walk in the rain forests.
- Drive Otira Gorge highway to Arthur’s Pass, where you will be treated to a nature showcase by the cheeky kea birds that have made the towering mountains their home.
Details
Auckland - Rotorua - Tongariro National Park - Wellington - Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Kaikoura - Mount Cook - Queenstown - Milford Sound - Wanaka - Franz Josef Glacier - Punakaiki - Christchurch
Departure Dates
| Month | Year | Day |
| February | 2026 | 9 |
| March | 2026 | 12 |
| April | 2026 | 16 |
| (C) Tour Closed/Full / (L) Limited Slots | ||
Start: Auckland (approx. 8:30am)
Finish: Christchurch (approx. 4:30pm)
Includes:
- Enjoy comfortable transport in air conditioned coach (maximum of 18 travellers).
- Know that you are in safe hands with your experienced Kiwi guide.
- Enjoy beautifully appointed 4 star accommodation with scenic outlooks and great facilities.
Meals Included
- All breakfasts (B).
- A selection of special lunches (L) - Lake Tarawera, Rotorua; Vineyard lunch, Marlborough; Akaunui Farm homestead, Canterbury.
- A picnic lunch for your day walking in Abel Tasman National Park.
Pricing:
Cost per person
October 2024 - April 2025
- Twin: NZ$10,390
- Single: NZ$12,690
PAYMENTS
- 25% Deposit per person on booking, balance 130 days before departure.
CANCELLATIONS
- Outside 130 days: loss of deposit*
- Between 90 and 129 days prior to departure: 50% of tour cost*
- 89 days prior to departure: no refund
- No refunds will be made after travel has commenced.
Note: *Refunds excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
Luggage: Try to keep to one suitcase weighing around 23kgs and one small carry on bag.
Currency ConverterOverview
Embark on a road less travelled adventure in this special small group New Zealand tour, and experience country hospitality and unspoiled nature in the wild. We learn about authentic Maori culture around Rotorua in North Island, and see Tongariro National Park up close. In the South Island, we explore the surroundings of Mount Cook and experience the magic of Milford Sound by land, sea and air. We also swap stories with locals over exclusive lunches at a mid-Canterbury farmhouse, Lake Tarawera, and Lake Wanaka.
Included Activities & Entrance Fees
- Visit a working Kiwifruit orchard, meet the growers and taste the fruit fresh off the vine.
- Experience the thrill of a scenic boat-cruise across Lake Rotoiti on the luxury 16 metre yacht ‘Tuia'.
- Meet the locals and learn about their Maori and European ancestors at Lake Tarawera.
- Explore an ancient geothermal wonderland at Wai-O-Tapu.
- Enjoy a breathtaking three hour scenic cruise on the Interislander ferry across the Cook Strait, up the Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton.
- Taste wines in Marlborough, a premier wine-growing region in the South Island.
- Take a cruise to the golden sands of the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Meet a South Island farming family on a working sheep and beef farm and enjoy their warm hospitality.
- Explore the world-famous Milford Sound on a 2.5 hour nature and wildlife cruise.
- Take flight high above the majestic Southern Alps as we fly from Milford Sound to Queenstown on a fabulous scenic flight.
- Toast your last Kiwi sunset with your friends on the beach at Punakaiki.
Included Sightseeing and Exploring
- Travel the dramatic highway through the Karangahake Gorge.
- Discover Rotorua’s impressive lakes; Rotoiti and Tarawera.
- Enjoy all the highlights of Rotorua, its cultural and geothermal activities.
- See the powerful Huka Falls and the Wairakei geothermal power station.
- See three of New Zealand’s active volcanoes with views across Lake Taupo.
- Explore the sights of Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city.
- Stand on the edge of paradise with a visit to Lake Tekapo and the snow-capped, glacier filled Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
- See landscapes change before your eyes as we drive over the Lindis Pass and Kawarau Gorge.
- Explore untouched remote wilderness in Fiordland, Mt Aspiring, Tai Poutini Westland and Arthur’s Pass National Parks.
- Learn about the history of gold-mining in leafy Arrowtown.
- Take in sights of the three Great Southern Lakes - Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea.
- Stroll in Haast Pass’ where the natural wonders of this secluded area of New Zealand will delight.
- View Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, two of the most easily accessible glaciers in the world.
- Watch as the Tasman Sea meets the Punakaiki Pancake rocks, walk in the rain forests.
- Drive Otira Gorge highway to Arthur’s Pass, where you will be treated to a nature showcase by the cheeky kea birds that have made the towering mountains their home.
Itinerary
Open AllAfter connecting with your travel companions in Auckland our tour continues to Rotorua, via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Our first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past.
We pass through Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, where we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, we board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a relaxing sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat - a memorable end to an awesome day.
Stay: 2 Nights Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, Rotorua
We’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand. We'll head to the famous 'Buried Village of Te Wairoa' for a hosted lunch with our friends David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories.
No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable.
From Rotorua we continue on our adventure to ‘Great Lake’ Taupo, for a stop at the famous Huka Falls. We’ll take our time and make plenty of stops around the lake to enjoy the magnificent views of our three volcanoes - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. These lunar landscape of the volcanic plateau are our next stop on tour, Tongariro National Park. The perfect spot to stretch your legs on a short walk before dinner.
Stay: 1 Night either Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune; The Park Hotel, National Park; or Aspen Court, Taihape
After a relaxed breakfast at the historic Chateau Tongariro we drive up the mountain road to the Top of the Bruce to enjoy panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. We drive around the slopes of Mt Ruapehu before we make our way down the centre of the island to our capital Wellington.
We stay two nights in Wellington as we reckon you can’t miss "the coolest little capital in the world". We’ll check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. We’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes.
Stay: 2 Nights The Bolton Hotel, Wellington
The day is yours to enjoy, you are at the heart of all the action at The Bolton Hotel, a short walk to the waterfront, Te Papa National Museum and all the eateries and boutique breweries that Wellington is famous for.
Wellington is also the spiritual home of "The Lord of Rings" where you can visit Weta Workshop and see how all the props are made or drop into the Embassy theatre which hosted the world premier back in 2003. Something different about our tour is the two night stay in Wellington, we reckon you can’t miss ’the coolest little capital in the world'.
We cruise on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant our feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Our first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch with a local right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region.
From wine country we head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way we cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights.
Stay: 2 Nights Trailways Hotel, Nelson
Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to walk a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. After your magical day out we'll return to Nelson for another night.
Heading towards Kaikoura the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular. Your afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline.
There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
Stay: 1 Night White Morph Motor Inn, Kaikoura
Leaving the coast we drive over the Hunderlee Hills to the Canterbury Plains. We stop for a special lunch at Akaunui, a 100-year-old homestead surrounded by large gardens and dine on wonderful fresh produce prepared by your warm hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. Get a great insight into life on a working sheep and dairy farm.
After lunch we continue through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. We’ll make plenty of stops en route, we can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of glacier fed Lake Pukaki.
Stay: 1 Night Hermitage Hotel or Aoraki Court, Mt. Cook Village
Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village, or make it an experience you’ll never forget with a boat cruise on the glacial lake, a scenic flight or a heli hike high up on the Tasman Glacier!
After lunch we’ll head south, over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged scenery of the Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand. Tonight take your pick from the best of Queenstown's restaurants and bars, all an easy walk from our home for the next three nights!
Stay: 3 Nights Scenic Suites, Queenstown
Today is all about the one and only Milford Sound, from Queenstown we follow the shores of the great southern lakes before heading into the heart of Fiordland National Park on the spectacular Milford Road. Everything you’ve heard is true, this is unreal countryside.
On arrival into Milford head out onto the water on our cruise out onto the sound, dominated by iconic Mitre Peak and home to birdlife, seal colonies and pods of dolphins. A magical flight over the Southern Alps returns us to Queenstown at the end of a fantastic day of touring by land, sea and air. The very best of Milford!
Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer, your ‘Kiwi Guide’ will be right there to help. These days, the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, caters for a lot more than just adrenalin junkies, the best way we know to sum up Queenstown is by saying that if you went on a holiday to Queenstown with three generations of your family, you’d all have the time of your lives!
What do we love in Queenstown? A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in The Lord of the Rings scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River. Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the Earnslaw.
Our day starts with a short hop to leafy Arrowtown, where gold mining history comes alive beside the Arrow River and in the excellent museum. Then we head into tussock country for the climb up the Crown Range and our last views of the beautiful Wakatipu basin. We call into picture perfect Cardrona Hotel, its history dates back to the colonial era, then continue on to Wanaka.
Our hotel this evening is right on the lake edge, you’ve got plenty of time after lunch to discover this lovely lakeside town for yourself. Bike the waterfront trail, get out on the lake in a kayak or head next door to Rippon Vineyard for wine tasting with a view!
Stay: 1 Night Edgewater Resort, Wanaka
Today is a quintessential kiwi day, where else in the world can you visit the seaside, a rainforest and a glacier all in the same day? In New Zealand, no worries! We start off following the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before reaching the pristine mountain and river scenery of the Mount Aspiring National Park. Then it’s up and over the Haast Pass through beech forests, past cascading waterfalls and clear blue pools before following the Haast River out to the sea. There’s plenty of time for short walks and photo stops on the way, we’re in no hurry.
Head north through the lush, prehistoric Gondwanaland forest of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, stopping at Ship Creek to stroll the beach, keep your eye out for dolphins feeding in the shallows. Get your camera ready for Lake Matheson’s famous reflections and our first glimpse of Fox Glacier descending from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Our home for the night is Franz Josef.
Stay: 1 Night Scenic Hotel, Franz Josef
Your morning is free to discover Glacier Country and Westland, right in the heart of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Valley lookout or cruise out on Okarito lagoon on an optional kayak or boat trip in search of the Kotuku - White Heron.
We head north through countryside dotted with little lakes and boulder strewn rivers. Hokitika is the Pounamu (greenstone) capital of the country and you’ll have the chance to visit the carvers as well as glass blowing, wood and copper artisans. We arrive at our home for two nights in Punakaiki, right on the beach in the perfect spot to enjoy your last few sunsets in New Zealand.
Stay: 2 Nights Ocean View Retreat, Paparoa National Park
The surrounding Paparoa National Park is very different to any other area on the trip, towering limestone cliffs and karst rock formations with beautiful river valleys draped in subtropical forest.
You’ll have plenty of time to discover the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. There are also some great optional activities here, our favourite is the Glowworm Caves at Charleston but there are also exceptional walking tracks including the Truman track to an isolated beach and the coastal walkway at Cape Foulwind.
This evening toast your last Kiwi sunset with your friends on the beach at Punakaiki.
Wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, cross New Zealand’s main divide, traverse the stunning Canterbury High Country and cross the plains into the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch.
Highlights include the Otira Viaduct, a spectacular cantilevered road through towering mountains to Arthur’s Pass National Park one of the best places in the country to see the hilarious antics of our alpine parrot, the Kea. Stretch your legs in the beech forests at Arthur’s Pass National Park and again at the massive limestone rocks at Castle Hill before we reach Christchurch in the late afternoon. We'll say our goodbyes with drop offs at Christchurch Airport or your city accommodation.
Cost per person
October 2024 - April 2025
- Twin: NZ$10,390
- Single: NZ$12,690
PAYMENTS
- 25% Deposit per person on booking, balance 130 days before departure.
CANCELLATIONS
- Outside 130 days: loss of deposit*
- Between 90 and 129 days prior to departure: 50% of tour cost*
- 89 days prior to departure: no refund
- No refunds will be made after travel has commenced.
Note: *Refunds excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
Luggage: Try to keep to one suitcase weighing around 23kgs and one small carry on bag.
Itinerary
Open AllAfter connecting with your travel companions in Auckland our tour continues to Rotorua, via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Our first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past.
We pass through Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, where we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, we board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a relaxing sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat - a memorable end to an awesome day.
Stay: 2 Nights Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, Rotorua
We’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand. We'll head to the famous 'Buried Village of Te Wairoa' for a hosted lunch with our friends David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories.
No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable.
From Rotorua we continue on our adventure to ‘Great Lake’ Taupo, for a stop at the famous Huka Falls. We’ll take our time and make plenty of stops around the lake to enjoy the magnificent views of our three volcanoes - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. These lunar landscape of the volcanic plateau are our next stop on tour, Tongariro National Park. The perfect spot to stretch your legs on a short walk before dinner.
Stay: 1 Night either Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune; The Park Hotel, National Park; or Aspen Court, Taihape
After a relaxed breakfast at the historic Chateau Tongariro we drive up the mountain road to the Top of the Bruce to enjoy panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. We drive around the slopes of Mt Ruapehu before we make our way down the centre of the island to our capital Wellington.
We stay two nights in Wellington as we reckon you can’t miss "the coolest little capital in the world". We’ll check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. We’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes.
Stay: 2 Nights The Bolton Hotel, Wellington
The day is yours to enjoy, you are at the heart of all the action at The Bolton Hotel, a short walk to the waterfront, Te Papa National Museum and all the eateries and boutique breweries that Wellington is famous for.
Wellington is also the spiritual home of "The Lord of Rings" where you can visit Weta Workshop and see how all the props are made or drop into the Embassy theatre which hosted the world premier back in 2003. Something different about our tour is the two night stay in Wellington, we reckon you can’t miss ’the coolest little capital in the world'.
We cruise on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant our feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Our first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch with a local right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region.
From wine country we head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way we cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights.
Stay: 2 Nights Trailways Hotel, Nelson
Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to walk a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. After your magical day out we'll return to Nelson for another night.
Heading towards Kaikoura the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular. Your afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline.
There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
Stay: 1 Night White Morph Motor Inn, Kaikoura
Leaving the coast we drive over the Hunderlee Hills to the Canterbury Plains. We stop for a special lunch at Akaunui, a 100-year-old homestead surrounded by large gardens and dine on wonderful fresh produce prepared by your warm hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. Get a great insight into life on a working sheep and dairy farm.
After lunch we continue through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. We’ll make plenty of stops en route, we can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of glacier fed Lake Pukaki.
Stay: 1 Night Hermitage Hotel or Aoraki Court, Mt. Cook Village
Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village, or make it an experience you’ll never forget with a boat cruise on the glacial lake, a scenic flight or a heli hike high up on the Tasman Glacier!
After lunch we’ll head south, over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged scenery of the Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand. Tonight take your pick from the best of Queenstown's restaurants and bars, all an easy walk from our home for the next three nights!
Stay: 3 Nights Scenic Suites, Queenstown
Today is all about the one and only Milford Sound, from Queenstown we follow the shores of the great southern lakes before heading into the heart of Fiordland National Park on the spectacular Milford Road. Everything you’ve heard is true, this is unreal countryside.
On arrival into Milford head out onto the water on our cruise out onto the sound, dominated by iconic Mitre Peak and home to birdlife, seal colonies and pods of dolphins. A magical flight over the Southern Alps returns us to Queenstown at the end of a fantastic day of touring by land, sea and air. The very best of Milford!
Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer, your ‘Kiwi Guide’ will be right there to help. These days, the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, caters for a lot more than just adrenalin junkies, the best way we know to sum up Queenstown is by saying that if you went on a holiday to Queenstown with three generations of your family, you’d all have the time of your lives!
What do we love in Queenstown? A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in The Lord of the Rings scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River. Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the Earnslaw.
Our day starts with a short hop to leafy Arrowtown, where gold mining history comes alive beside the Arrow River and in the excellent museum. Then we head into tussock country for the climb up the Crown Range and our last views of the beautiful Wakatipu basin. We call into picture perfect Cardrona Hotel, its history dates back to the colonial era, then continue on to Wanaka.
Our hotel this evening is right on the lake edge, you’ve got plenty of time after lunch to discover this lovely lakeside town for yourself. Bike the waterfront trail, get out on the lake in a kayak or head next door to Rippon Vineyard for wine tasting with a view!
Stay: 1 Night Edgewater Resort, Wanaka
Today is a quintessential kiwi day, where else in the world can you visit the seaside, a rainforest and a glacier all in the same day? In New Zealand, no worries! We start off following the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before reaching the pristine mountain and river scenery of the Mount Aspiring National Park. Then it’s up and over the Haast Pass through beech forests, past cascading waterfalls and clear blue pools before following the Haast River out to the sea. There’s plenty of time for short walks and photo stops on the way, we’re in no hurry.
Head north through the lush, prehistoric Gondwanaland forest of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, stopping at Ship Creek to stroll the beach, keep your eye out for dolphins feeding in the shallows. Get your camera ready for Lake Matheson’s famous reflections and our first glimpse of Fox Glacier descending from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Our home for the night is Franz Josef.
Stay: 1 Night Scenic Hotel, Franz Josef
Your morning is free to discover Glacier Country and Westland, right in the heart of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Valley lookout or cruise out on Okarito lagoon on an optional kayak or boat trip in search of the Kotuku - White Heron.
We head north through countryside dotted with little lakes and boulder strewn rivers. Hokitika is the Pounamu (greenstone) capital of the country and you’ll have the chance to visit the carvers as well as glass blowing, wood and copper artisans. We arrive at our home for two nights in Punakaiki, right on the beach in the perfect spot to enjoy your last few sunsets in New Zealand.
Stay: 2 Nights Ocean View Retreat, Paparoa National Park
The surrounding Paparoa National Park is very different to any other area on the trip, towering limestone cliffs and karst rock formations with beautiful river valleys draped in subtropical forest.
You’ll have plenty of time to discover the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. There are also some great optional activities here, our favourite is the Glowworm Caves at Charleston but there are also exceptional walking tracks including the Truman track to an isolated beach and the coastal walkway at Cape Foulwind.
This evening toast your last Kiwi sunset with your friends on the beach at Punakaiki.
Wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, cross New Zealand’s main divide, traverse the stunning Canterbury High Country and cross the plains into the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch.
Highlights include the Otira Viaduct, a spectacular cantilevered road through towering mountains to Arthur’s Pass National Park one of the best places in the country to see the hilarious antics of our alpine parrot, the Kea. Stretch your legs in the beech forests at Arthur’s Pass National Park and again at the massive limestone rocks at Castle Hill before we reach Christchurch in the late afternoon. We'll say our goodbyes with drop offs at Christchurch Airport or your city accommodation.
