Journey Through a Southern Land Itinerary

Auckland is a vibrant coastal city crowned by the iconic Sky Tower, where your included viewing platform entry reveals sweeping panoramic views.

Auckland is situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones beside a harbour that bustles with life on water and land. After checking into your hotel, relax and take a stroll through New Zealand’s largest city. Discover Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, diverse neighbourhoods, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy included entry to the iconic Sky Tower viewing platform, offering panoramic views across the city, harbours, and surrounding landscapes, showcasing the unique geography and energy that define Auckland.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Continue your journey today to Paihia in the stunning Bay of Islands and enjoy a “Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Cruise.”

Board the cruise to spot playful dolphins and admire the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Glide through the majestic Hole in the Rock and explore the impressive Grand Cathedral Cave. Return to the inner islands of the Bay, taking in the serene waters, dramatic cliffs, and scenic beauty that make this area one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal experiences.

Accommodation: Paihia - 2 Nights

Today you are heading to Cape Reinga - the very top of New Zealand - via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. The driver will take the bus up the Te Paki Stream towards the mountainous sand dunes. Enjoy New Zealand's varying and beautiful landscape. Visit the Puketi Kauri Forest and see the majestic giant kauri trees and native bush. Return to the Bay of Islands in the evening after an unforgettable journey. 

Included Meals: Lunch

Enjoy some free time in the Bay of Islands before boarding the evening coach to Auckland.

Experience the stunning Bay of Islands your way – today is a whole day of leisure and the freedom to explore as you wish. A subtropical wonderland of secluded bays, islands and history, the Bay of Islands is a coastal paradise.

Stroll the streets of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, and soak up its whaling and pioneering past. Learn about the birth of New Zealand in Waitangi, where the treaty that made New Zealand a British colony was signed.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

With an early departure from Auckland you will soon be visiting the amazing Waitomo Caves and the set locations of Hobbiton from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit Movies.  

Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo – the name coming from the Maori words wai (water) and tomo (hole) is home to an astonishing landscape. Hidden under the green hills of Waitomo lies a labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers. 

Hobbiton
Next feast your eyes on underground burrows of a different kind as you are transported into the world of the Shire - unbelievable attention to detail will have you stepping straight in to Middle Earth.

Rotorua 
Later, travel on to Rotorua, the cultural centre of New Zealand. 

Included Meals: Lunch

Accommodation: Rotorua - 3 Nights

Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in Rotorua’s Maori culture and geothermal wonders, witnessing their deep interconnection. Start with a guided tour through Te Puia, Rotorua’s top cultural attraction. Highlights include the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house, and the impressive Pohutu geyser.

Continue to the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and delve further into Maori history and customs. Take a brief visit to Kuirau Park to view a recent geothermal eruption site. Conclude the day by exploring the serene and picturesque lakes of our stunning volcanic region, with views of Mount Tarawera accompanied by explanations of both volcanic and Maori history.

Whatever you want to do is is your choice. Relax in the Polynesian Spa, ride the amphibious Rotorua Duck or take a scenic flight out over Lake Rotorua for a bird’s eye view of the region. You may even want to stop at the top of Mt Tarawera, the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory! 

This evening we visit the Te Pā Tū  for an evening of culture. You will experience a traditionally prepared Māori Hāngī  (feast) followed by a cultural performance featuring Māori songs, chants and dance including the famous haka - lots of fun! 

Included Meals: Dinner

Continue your journey today across the Central Plateau to the Hawkes Bay region and the seaside town of Napier often regarded as the world's Art Deco Capital. On arrival, after checking into your hotel. We recommend a walk around the town centre or a beach promenade.

This is a colorful, sunny city with the air of an affluent English seaside resort. A devastating natural disaster flattened Napier in 1931 leaving a blank canvas for city leaders to rebuilt in the favored style of the day - and that was Art Deco. Napier now proudly represents one of the few fully intact Deco city's remaining today. Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical buildings pepper Napier – This is as close as you are going to get to time travel!

Accommodation: Napier - 2 Nights

The Hawkes Bay is one of New Zealand's premier wine producing regions. It is a veritable treasure trove of vineyards, offering wines of superlative quality, many of which have won both national and international acclaim.

Join a fun filled wine tasting afternoon in the sun driving through absolutely stunning scenery. Meet like-minded people and share an appreciation of this regions fantastic wine. We will visit four to five wineries and enjoy a cheese platter in the grounds of Ngatarawa Vineyard beside the lily pond. You will taste around 30 different wines including the main varieties, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as Pinot Gris, Viognier and the lesser known aromatics such as Gewurztraminer and Riesling.

Included Meals: Lunch

Travel by coach to Wellington today. 

Embraced by a natural amphitheatre of ocean and hill, Wellington merges big city culture with small town charm. A lively energy pulses through what is celebrated as New Zealand’s arts, film, coffee, culinary, craft beer, events and political capital.

Wellington is also known as a socially and environmentally conscious city. Declared nuclear weapon free over 30 years ago in 1982, it was also the first capital city in the southern hemisphere to gain Fair Trade status, and is home to the world-leading Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary.

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

Today you will see the best of the Middle Earth on your Lord of the Rings Movie Tour. Embark on a tour of Middle-earth magic. There is something for all the Lord of the Rings and movie fans alike, see world famous Lord of the Rings scenes, introduction to the movie-making industry and long visit to The Weta Cave included.

Included Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea

Begin your day with a transfer to Wellington Airport for your flight across Cook Strait to Blenheim, the gateway to Marlborough. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your accommodation, passing through a landscape of sunlit vineyards, rolling hills, and tranquil waterways. Renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough offers a relaxed atmosphere, clear skies, and a strong connection to nature. Settle in and take in the peaceful surroundings, where the region’s natural beauty and acclaimed wine heritage create a memorable introduction to the top of the South Island.

Accommodation: Blenhiem - 2 Nights

Enjoy the best of Marlborough with a full-day experience combining world-class wine, stunning scenery and fresh local seafood. Visit boutique and iconic wineries for tastings in New Zealand’s renowned wine region before relaxing on a scenic cruise through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Along the way, savour fresh seafood and learn about the region from knowledgeable local guides. This leisurely tour showcases Marlborough’s iconic flavours and landscapes in one unforgettable day.

Included Meals: Lunch

Board a coach and travel south through Marlborough, the country’s renowned winemaking capital, where vineyards stretch across sunlit valleys. Continuing along the East Coast, the landscape shifts to dramatic headlands before arriving in Kaikoura, set between towering mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Known as New Zealand’s “Serengeti of the Sea,” this region is rich in marine life. A unique underwater canyon system brings nutrients to the surface, attracting whales, dolphins, and seals. Consider an optional whale watching cruise or scenic flight to experience this extraordinary coastal environment up close.

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 1 Night

Leaving Kaikoura and the coast, you’ll head inland across the rural Canterbury Plains, passing through the Waipara wine region with its scenic vineyards before arriving in Christchurch.

New Zealand’s second-largest city, Christchurch sits on the edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. Explore its vibrant urban culture, including the innovative pop-up retail precincts and the many lively bars scattered throughout the city. With stunning parks, historic architecture, and dynamic streets, Christchurch offers a perfect blend of heritage, modern creativity, and charm.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or traveling with family, there is always a lot to do in Christchurch. Discover new things to do around Christchurch. The garden city is packed with surprises. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre. Expertly guided gently along the Avon River on our authentic Edwardian Punting tours. How about seeing the Gothic Revival architecture at The Arts Centre. Stop in at the Riverside market - an exciting new development consisting of a 7-day-trading, indoor market, linked to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars.

Travel in comfort from Christchurch to Mt Cook on this fully guided small-group tour, stopping at the South Island’s most iconic sights. Crossing the scenic Canterbury Plains, you’ll pause in Fairlie to pick up a delicious lunch from the famous Bakehouse. Continue through alpine passes, admiring the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and visiting the historic Church of the Good Shepherd. Scenic highlights continue over Lake Pukaki before entering Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest mountain on a relaxed, well-paced journey with expert guidance.

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

This morning visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre - a tribute to New Zealand's Sir Edmund Hillary / humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world's greatest explorers. 

Enjoy the rest of your day to explore. Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. There are some stunning walks to view glaciers, tarns and lakes ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours. The most popular walk is the Hooker Valley Track. You might also like to join a stargazing tour this evening and experience the stunning night sky in this Dark Sky Reserve. Or join a Tasman Glacier boat cruise and get up close and personal with a glacier from the water.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Travel in comfort from Mt Cook to Queenstown on a fully guided small-group tour. Journey at a relaxed pace in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, enjoying breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki, and scenic highlights including Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps, and Kawarau Gorge. Stop to feed the fish and sample fresh salmon at High Country Salmon, and in summer, taste local fruit at Jacksons Orchard. Combining stunning landscapes, local flavors, and expert guidance, this tour offers an immersive South Island experience full of unforgettable memories.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Discover the serene side of Queenstown. Today, relax and soak in the stunning lakes and rivers, while exploring a bounty of vineyards, charming cafés, and top-notch restaurants across Queenstown, Arrowtown, and the Gibbston Valley. You don’t need to be an adrenaline seeker to enjoy the region—its charm lies in a variety of leisurely yet unforgettable experiences. For those craving thrills, Queenstown also offers an adventure bucket list that’s second to none. A must-do is a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the iconic century-old, coal-fired steamship, the TSS Earnslaw.

Today is set to be a highlight of your New Zealand adventure. We travel to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, before embarking on the spectacular Milford Road. Lush forests, glacier-carved valleys, snowy peaks, and pristine lakes create an unforgettable drive into this World Heritage Site. Passing through the hand-carved Homer Tunnel, we arrive at Milford Sound, where breathtaking granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and unique wildlife await. A scenic boat cruise on the inky waters allows full immersion in the fiord’s beauty, before we return to Queenstown this evening.

Included Meals: Lunch

Travel by coach from Queenstown to Dunedin, enjoying a scenic journey through the southern landscapes before transferring to your accommodation on arrival.

It is for good reason New Zealand’s oldest city is known as the Edinburgh of the South. “Dunedin” derives from Edinburgh’s Gaelic name, reflecting its strong Scottish heritage. Founded by Scottish settlers, the city features impressive architecture spanning Tudor, Gothic, Georgian, and Arts and Crafts styles. Widely regarded as one of the best preserved Victorian cities in the Commonwealth, Dunedin offers a rich cultural and historical atmosphere.

Accommodation: Dunedin - 1 Night

Travel by coach to New Zealand's most southern city Invercargill. This city offers a superb variety of shops, lively bars, and restaurants. The city’s charm is enhanced by Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco heritage buildings, giving it a delightful old-world character.

Just minutes from the city center, visitors can explore diverse coastal landscapes. From the expansive Oreti Beach and the native wonders of Waituna Wetlands and Omaui to the boardwalk on the estuary and heritage wharfs, the area is rich in natural beauty.

Invercargill's fascination with anything on wheels is evident. Discover the vintage truck collection at Bill Richardson Transport World or celebrate the city’s motorcycle history at Classic Motorcycle Mecca. Learn about speed legend Burt Munro at E Hayes Motorworks. For a different experience, try chocolate making at the Seriously Good Chocolate Company.

Accommodation: Invercargill - 1 Night

Board a coach to Bluff this morning, also known as the gateway to Stewart island. Board the ferry to explore this island haven.

It is almost a cliché to call it one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets, but given that so few people are aware of its unspoiled tranquillity, it probably deserves this label more than any other place in the country. Stewart Island in 65km (40 miles) long and 40km (25 miles) Only 1% of the island is inhabited - the rest is given over to the natural native bush, exquisite white-sand beaches, bird sanctuaries, and rugged mountains. All this makes it a naturalist's and tramper's paradise and the perfect place for a remote yet accessible holiday. You need to be here only a few hours before the rest of the world melts away and you find yourself adopting the unhurried, laid-back approach of the locals.

Accommodation: Stewart Island - 3 Nights

Discover Ulva Island, New Zealand’s southern-most bird sanctuary, where primeval forests reveal native flora and fauna from Māori and local Stewart Island perspectives. 

This predator-free 266-hectare paradise is home to rare and endangered birds and plants, offering excellent walking tracks through pristine podocarp forests. Here, kaka parrots call with honeyed notes, bellbirds sing delicately, and tui provide their varied, melodic calls, while lime-green parakeets dart through the treetops. Wander among delicate ferns and native orchids, experiencing a rare opportunity to observe a remarkable diversity of native birds up close in one of New Zealand’s most unique natural sanctuaries.

Enjoy a free day to relax and explore the paradise that is Stewart Island. The wildlife and rare plant life is some of New Zealand's best, you will see seals, penguins, and dolphins all from the roads. You might like to join a Kiwi Spotting tour tonight. This is a very popular activity here as Kiwi are common over much of the island. The forest is a haven for bird-life, as there are fewer predators than on the mainland. Kaka, parakeets, tui, and bellbird give a wonderful dawn chorus in spring. Tramping, birding, fishing, diving, and kayaking are just some of the exciting activities you can take part in on Stewart Island. Or sit back and relax today on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Begin your day on Stewart Island, soaking in its tranquil atmosphere before boarding a ferry across the Foveaux Strait. As you cruise toward the mainland, keep watch for seabirds and perhaps dolphins in these rich southern waters. Arriving in Bluff, continue by road to Invercargill. The journey offers a final glimpse of rugged coastlines and open horizons, contrasting with the island’s serenity, as you return to the southernmost city on New Zealand’s mainland.

Accommodation: Invercargill - 1 Night

Travel by coach from Invercargill to Dunedin, enjoying a scenic journey through rolling farmland and coastal landscapes. On arrival, take time to explore this historic southern city, known for its rich heritage and striking architecture. You may wish to visit the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum to discover the region’s cultural and Māori history, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. This evening, consider a visit to the iconic Speight’s Brewery for a tour and dinner experience.

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

Today you will cruise the length of the Otago Harbour. Experience an unforgettable half day cruise and peninsula tour and explore Careys Bay historic fishing village, Port Chalmers’ busy wharves and the harbour’s beautiful bays, hills, farmland and forest. Enjoy Monarch’s fascinating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head and the surrounding coastline of dramatic cliffs. Watch the NZ Furseals play and swim near their breeding colonies, out at sea you can spot rarely seen ocean birds including other albatross species and petrels, and you may see penguins, dolphins and other marine mammals.

This morning, board a coach from Dunedin and travel north to Christchurch, taking in scenic sights along the way, including rolling hills, charming small towns, and the rugged South Island coastline. Arriving in Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the “Garden City,” you’ll find beautiful parks and gardens in the heart of town. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing punting trip on the Avon River, gliding past historic architecture and lush botanic gardens for a tranquil introduction to the city.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. We take care of your transfer to Christchurch Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.