The New Zealand Scenic Escape Itinerary

Begin your New Zealand adventure in Auckland with a hassle-free arrival and included entry to the iconic Sky Tower.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred directly to your hotel to freshen up and unwind—everything has been taken care of, so you can start your holiday stress-free. Enjoy some free leisure time to relax or explore Auckland’s vibrant streets, waterfront, and attractions. Later, ascend the 328m Sky Tower and take in breathtaking 360° views of Tāmaki Makaurau, from ancient volcanoes to sparkling harbors, enjoying a spectacular introduction to New Zealand’s largest city.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Today, journey from Auckland to experience the magic of Hobbiton and the geothermal and cultural wonders of Rotorua.

Depart Auckland early and journey to the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the set’s remarkable detail and storytelling magic. Continue to Rotorua for a guided experience through the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, including the New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute and the Kiwi Bird House. In the evening, take part in the Te Pō experience—featuring a traditional Māori welcome, a delicious feast, and a stunning illuminated display of the Pōhutu Geyser.

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Spend a captivating afternoon exploring Rotorua’s unique blend of Māori culture and geothermal wonders.

Spend the afternoon immersed in Rotorua’s rich Māori culture and geothermal wonders. Begin with a guided tour of Te Puia, featuring traditional carving and weaving schools, an art gallery, marae, kiwi house, and the impressive Pōhutu Geyser. Visit the Lakefront to see the Māori War Canoe and learn more about local history and traditions. Stop briefly at Kuirau Park to view a recent geothermal eruption site. End your day exploring the serene volcanic lakes with views of Mount Tarawera, where cultural and geological stories blend in a truly unforgettable setting.

Today, travel from Rotorua to Wellington, taking in scenic highlights along the way.

Leave Rotorua and journey south toward Taupō, passing lush farmland and rolling hills along the way. Pause at Huka Falls to witness the Waikato River thundering through a narrow gorge, then enjoy views across Lake Taupō to the volcanic peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu. Continue through the volcanic plateau and picturesque high country, with opportunities for short stops and photos. Arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, where harbors, hills, and cultural attractions await, providing a perfect introduction to the nation’s political and creative heart.

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

Discover the highlights of Wellington on a half-day guided tour blending city views, film magic, and historic landmarks.

Enjoy a half-day guided tour of Wellington. Begin with panoramic views from Mt Victoria, then follow the scenic coastline to the Weta Cave—home to props and insights from Peter Jackson’s film empire. Continue along the rugged south coast before riding the iconic Wellington Cable Car. Stroll through the beautiful Lady Norwood Rose Garden in the Botanic Gardens, then visit the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, film history, and political landmarks before returning to your accommodation.

Included Meals: Morning Tea

Fly from Wellington to Christchurch and begin your South Island adventure.

This morning, you will be transferred to the airport and board your flight from Wellington to Christchurch. Upon arrival, enjoy a transfer to your accommodation. Known as “The Garden City,” Christchurch blends heritage and innovation, framed by the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. Explore lush parks, historic and modern architecture, vibrant street art, and a dynamic café and restaurant scene. With inviting green spaces and a creative energy that balances tradition and modernity, Christchurch offers a warm welcome and plenty to discover on your first day in the South Island.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Journey from Christchurch to Franz Josef, experiencing the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps and West Coast.

Embark on a fully guided small-group tour across the Southern Alps, passing dramatic mountain passes, charming alpine villages, and lush native rainforest. Your expert guide shares local stories and provides plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and take photos. Highlights include Castle Hill, Devil’s Punchbowl Falls, the Otira Viaduct, Hokitika Gorge, and Hokitika’s black-sand beaches. Along the way, enjoy short walks, sightseeing, and a lunch stop in Hokitika before arriving in the picturesque glacier town of Franz Josef.

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Experience the highlights of Glacier Country on a full-day adventure through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.

Join expert guides on an unforgettable journey to Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, and Lake Matheson, all in a single day. Explore the unique geography of South Westland and learn how these spectacular sites are interconnected. Enjoy breathtaking views, walk along glacier-fed rivers, and marvel at the reflective waters of Lake Matheson. This full-day tour immerses you in Glacier Country’s stunning scenery, creating unforgettable moments while deepening your understanding of the region’s remarkable natural environment.

Journey from Franz Josef to Queenstown on a fully guided small-group tour through the stunning West Coast and Haast Pass.

Travel along the dramatic West Coast with stops at Lake Matheson to admire Mt Cook’s reflections, explore Bruce Bay’s wild coastline, and walk Ship Creek’s dunes. After lunch in Haast, marvel at Thunder Creek Falls and pause for photos at Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. In Wanaka, capture the iconic Wanaka Tree before continuing to Queenstown. Upon arrival, your guide will share insider tips and highlights, helping you get oriented and ready to enjoy the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Enjoy a quintessential Queenstown experience with a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw.

Depart from the waterfront and glide across Lake Wakatipu, taking in sweeping alpine views. Arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm for a relaxed lunch at the charming Colonel’s Homestead. Afterward, explore the lakeside gardens or experience farm life with a sheep-shearing and working dog demonstration. Return to Queenstown on the vintage steamship, enjoying the surrounding landscapes one last time. This half-day adventure perfectly blends history, nature, and classic New Zealand hospitality, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of the Southern Alps.

Included Meals: Lunch

Embark on a scenic journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound, immersing yourself in Fiordland’s dramatic landscapes.

Travel along the winding shores of Lake Wakatipu, where alpine peaks reflect in sparkling waters, perfect for photos. Continue through glacier-carved valleys, native forests, and rushing rivers, pausing at the Alpine Centre Cafe for refreshments and alpaca encounters. The adventure leads into Fiordland, where a small boat cruise at Milford Sound brings you close to towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and mist-shrouded peaks. Complete the day with a scenic drive back through the mountains, taking in the region’s unforgettable natural beauty.

Included Meals: Lunch

Travel from Queenstown to Dunedin, a city famed for its wildlife, history, and Victorian charm.

Leave Queenstown and journey to Dunedin, where majestic Victorian architecture dots the city centre. Dunedin is renowned for its rare wildlife, including yellow-eyed penguins and the world’s only accessible mainland colony of Northern Royal Albatross. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace—take a wildlife cruise, visit the historic Speight’s Brewery, or enjoy a scenic ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway. With so many options, you can tailor your time to suit your interests while discovering the unique character of this coastal city.

Accommodation: Dunedin - 1 Night

Travel by coach from Dunedin back to Christchurch, taking in the stunning landscapes of the South Island.

Today you will head back to Christchurch by coach. As you depart Dunedin, the Otago countryside rolls by with golden farmland, charming rural towns, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. The landscape gradually shifts to the wide-open plains of Canterbury, with snow-capped mountains occasionally peeking through the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for the perfectly rounded boulders embedded in the sand at Moeraki Beach, a striking natural landmark that provides a memorable photo opportunity along this scenic journey.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

It is time to say goodbye. Today you will be transferred to Christchurch Airport in time for your onward flight.

There maybe time for some last minute excursions or shopping before making your way for your outbound flight. Our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with plenty of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon.