Journey Through a Southern Land Itinerary

When you touch down in New Zealand your detailed documentation pack will be hand-delivered by one of our trusted representatives. You'll find everything you need in one handy place: your personalised itinerary, clear instructions and maps, and reservation details for your accommodation and activities.

24 Hour Assistance: We’re just a free phone call away if you encounter any issues while you're on the road - at any time of day or night. Don’t waste your precious vacation time stressing - First Light Travel are here to help you quickly when every second counts.

What's also included?

Situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, next to a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land, the Auckland isthmus straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea.

After checking into your hotel, relax, take a stroll around our beautiful city, explore the highly acclaimed Waterfront Restaurant Quarter or choose one of the many activities available to give a more in depth understanding of Auckland and the surrounding area.

Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Continue your journey today to Paihia in the Beautiful Bay of Islands. Discover the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and enjoy a 'Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Cruise'.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds
This is the location of the first signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document and the accord between Maori Chiefs and the British Crown in 1840. Gain a deeper understanding during a guided tour of Waitangi with one of the traditional guides and enjoy a high-quality cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house (Whare Rūnanga). Explore one of New Zealand’s oldest and most visited historic homes and learn about the treasures within, visit treasures such as the Treaty House, Meeting House, Flagstaff and Ceremonial War Canoe.

Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise
Board the Hole in the Rock Dolphin Watching Cruise. Spot some dolphins and see the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Skip through the majestic Hole in the Rock and take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before returning to the inner islands of the Bay. 

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. 

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.

Some recommended excursions available in the Bay of Islands:

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Today you will be travelling to the amazing Waitomo Caves. Tour the Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto by boat with a local guide. 

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. The caves were carved by underground streams pushing through soft limestone over thousands of years. Tour the amazing limestone caverns and sail through the still waters of the sparkling Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto - with plenty of time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness - intensifying the effect of thousands of softly shining glow worms.

Accommodation: Rotorua - 3 Nights

Rotorua Sightseeing Tour
Later, travel on to Rotorua, the cultural centre of New Zealand. Enjoy a sightseeing tour this afternoon in Rotorua. Experience the Maori Culture and the amazing Te Puia. You will continue on to the Rainbow Springs Nature Park where you can join the Kiwi Encounter and then head over to the Agrodome Sheep Show for a taste of 'very kiwi' farm tour.

Rotorua at leisure
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! 

Some alternate excursions available:

Maori Cultural Experience Rotorua
This evening we visit the Tamaki Tribal Village for an evening of culture. You will experience a traditionally prepared Maori Hangi (feast) followed by a cultural performance featuring Maori songs, chants and dance including the famous haka - lots of fun! 

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.

Napier
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!

Lonely Planet: A ‘charismatic’ New Zealand city ‘can provoke a Great Gatsby swagger in the least romantic soul’.

Napier: Accommodation - 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.

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 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.

Let us show you where they filmed:

• Hobbiton Woods
• Frodo Tree
• Shortcut to Mushrooms
• "Get off the Road!"
• Race to the Ferry

and a couple more scenes if we have time...

​We visit Miramar - the home of New Zealand's movie industry, including Stone Street Studios and Park Road Post. Then we spend over an hour at THE WETA CAVE, you have plenty of time to take pictures and purchase movie memorabilia or simply absorb the creativity within. You have the option of viewing Weta's documentary or upgrading to join the Weta Cave Workshop Tour.

Meals: Lunch

This morning, make your way to and board the InterIslander in time for your morning crossing of the Cook Strait. This challenging stretch of water connects the Tasman Sea to the Southern Pacific Ocean, you will enter the South Island through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds.

Accommodation: Picton - 2 Nights

Located at the top of the South Island, in the Marlborough Sounds, The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s classic walks and a “must do” on every international or domestic visitors itinerary. This walking track is renowned for the uniqueness of its panoramic coastal views, lush coastal forest and excellent water transport services – creating a walk that is challenging yet comfortable.

Take a boat cruise from Picton to Ship Cove past salmon farms and sea birds on a beautiful voyage to Ship Cove, an historic and scenic reserve that Captain Cook visited several times in the 17th Century. Enjoy a walk along the Queen Charlotte Track from Ship Cove to Endeavour Inlet (14km (9 miles) - five hours approx.). Bush is mainly a mixture of stunning podocarp and beech forest with punga ferns and other New Zealand native foliage. This day is regarded as the premier section of the Queen Charlotte Track. Many beautiful views are to be had across the Marlborough Sounds

Today you will head through Marlborough the winemaking capital of New Zealand, continuing south the vines will keep you company as you reach the headlands of the East Coast. Nestled between soaring mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura is known as New Zealand’s ‘Serengeti of the Sea’. The natural wonders here are breath taking. Fur seals lounge on the rugged coastline and, just offshore, whales and dolphins thrive in an ocean that teems with life.

Kaikoura’s unique submarine environment of deep underwater canyons and warm and cool currents pushes the ocean’s nutrients to the surface, supporting a phenomenal array of marine life.

Wildlife Encounters in Kaikoura

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 1 night

Leaving Kaikoura and the coast you will then head inland towards the rural Canterbury plains, once again passing through viticulture of the Waipara wine region, before arriving in Christchurch.

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch sits on the very edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. The city itself has bounced back after a series of major earthquakes, and has shown its resiliency with a number of new and exciting developments popping up everywhere. Don’t miss the 'Re Start Shopping Mall', made out of shipping containers, as well as the many funky Pop Up bars dotted throughout the city.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 nights

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch sits on the very edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. A number of new and exciting developments are popping up everywhere since an earthquake damaged the city a few years ago.
 

Some Suggested Activities in Christchurch:

Leave the city today westwards through the Canterbury plains, you will find a superb location for some great photos at Lake Tekapo. Tekapo is one of three significant, neighbouring lakes that border the Mackenzie Valley in New Zealand's South Island. Golden tussock grass carpets the surrounding hillside and roll away into the distance where the Southern Alps frame the horizon. The charming 'Church of the Good Shepherd' sits alone on its shores and the views to our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook are remarkable. 

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

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.

Some highly recommended excursions around the National Park.

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. 

Afterwards you will continue to the adventure Capital of New Zealand - Queenstown. The surrounding area is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards and the natural landscape with wild rivers, high peaks and deep canyons has allowed Queenstown to developed an exciting array of outdoor adventure activities - and there's plenty to choose from. But if you are just want to chill out then Queenstown's compact downtown area is relaxed during the day and huge fun at night. In any season, you can count on stylish designer shops and many trendy restaurants offering a kaleidoscope of dining experiences.

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Today relax and enjoy the stunning lakes & rivers - there is a bounty of vineyards, cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the wider district of Queenstown, Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley. You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy Queenstown and part of its charm is the array of less hectic quality activities on offer – but if interested Queenstown is home to the ultimate adventure bucket list – Just ask. 

One of the best ways to see Queenstown’s surrounding landscape – a cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the iconic century-old coal fired steamship, the TSS Earnslaw.

Recommended excursions around Queenstown:

Today promises to be one of the major highlights of your time in New Zealand. We journey to Te Anau, the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park, before driving the spectacular Milford Road. Lush forests, glacier-carved valleys, snowy peaks and mirror-like lakes dot this very special driving experience into a renowned World Heritage Site. Continuing through the hand-carved Homer Tunnel and on to Milford Sound itself, the views of this grand fiord are breath taking. We explore its inky waters on a boat cruise, soaking up the surroundings of granite cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and unique wildlife before journeying back to Te Anau - Home for the evening.

Accommodation: Te Anau - 2 Nights

Te Anau is a township of tranquil beauty nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau. It is located close to the main southern walking tracks such as the Hollyford, Routeburn and Greenstone Tracks, Kepler, being a circular track, starts and finishes in Te Anau and is one of the newest tracks in Fiordland. At the head of Lake Te Anau is Glade House - the starting point of the Milford Track which traverses 34 miles (55 kilometres) of the Fiordland National Park. Other activities based at Te Anau include flight seeing, fishing, kayaking, sailing and horse riding as well as a variety of trips on the lake itself. You can also visit the underground waterfall and glow-worm grotto of the Te Anau Caves. This mountainous region of unspoilt forests and lakes was the home of two of the more remote regions of the Lord of the Rings movies.

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. Roughly triangular in shape Stewart Island is 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.

The wildlife and rare plant life is some of New Zealand's best, where you will see seals, penguins, and dolphins all from the roads. Kiwi spotting is very popular here as they 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. New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi is found all around the Island.

4 Hr Ulva Island Guided Walk and Eco Tour (Birding and Botany) 

Explore the southern-most bird sanctuary, Ulva Island Explore the primeval forests of Ulva Island and learn about native flora and fauna from a Mãori and local Stewart Island perspective. Ulva Island is an idyllic, predator-free bird sanctuary for rare and endangered bird and plant species, a paradise for birds and bird lovers... only 266 hectares with great walking tracks, located in the Southern-most island of New Zealand.

There are few places in New Zealand like Ulva Island where a variety of native birds can be viewed at such close range. You will hear kaka, our native parrot calling their liquid honey notes, interspersed with the bellbird's exquisite notes and the wonderfully varied calls of the tui, with lime green parakeets flying amongst the treetops you will wander through pristine native podocarp forests and see the forests delicate ferns and various orchid species.

Dunedin - Scottish City of Grace and Grandeur

It is for good reason that New Zealand's oldest city is known as the Edenborough of the South - 'Dunedin' comes from Dun Eideann the Scots-Gaelic name for Edinburgh, founded largely by Scottish immigrants, who raised the impressive buildings which now add much to the city's charm. These buildings incorporate a diverse array of styles from Tudor, Jacobean, Georgian, Carpenter, Gothic and Arts and Crafts styles also feature - to some very fine examples of Neo-Gothic. Dunedin is regarded as one of the best preserved Victorian cities in the Commonwealth.

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 night

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 you are free to relax, perhaps visit Larnach Castle New Zealand's only castle. In the afternoon travel to Oamaru, a unique mix of Victorian – ornately decorated grand limestone buildings that once housed upstanding banks, hotels and restaurants – and bohemian artisans, creative’s and antiquarians. From here it's on to Omarama which highlights New Zealand's best – mountain scenery, location and small-town hospitality.

Accommodation: Oamaru - 2 Nights

'Out There' - Oamaru
While its façade is strictly of the Victorian era with ornately decorated grand white stone buildings that once housed upstanding banks, hotels and restaurants, the residents ‘the Oamaruivans’ are certainly not. In fact quite the contrary, unlike the Victorians (the locals) are bohemians artisans, creative’s and antiquarians who run ‘out-there’ galleries, museums, shops and venues – it has to be seen to be believed and you'll love it.

One of these strange manifestations is the Steampunk Museum and workshop, housed in beautiful but imposing free-standing Oamaru stone building. Outside the infamous Steampunk Engine SP001 greets visitors, belching flames, smoke and odd sounds, inside the museum presents a theme of a dark post-apocalyptic vision of a future "as it might have been". 

This morning you will travel by coach, completing your journey at Christchurch.

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is known as the "Garden City", blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town.

After you settle in, why not step back to Edwardian times with a relaxing punting trip down the Avon River? It's a wonderful introduction to the city. Gliding gently along in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic attractions and botanic gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Some suggested activities to help you to get to know the region

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.

What is an Independent Coach Tour? 

Tour Inclusions

• 3 Star Motels
• Experienced Driver Guides
• Detailed and informative commentary
• Travel in an air-conditioned coach
• 24 Hour Assistance
• Daily Departures
• Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour
• InterIslander Cruise
• Māori Cultural Experience Rotorua
• Milford Sound Nature Cruise
• Queen Charlotte 1 Day Freedom Walk
• Rotorua Sightseeing - Most Popular Attractions
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
• Ulva Island Cruise & Guided Nature Walk
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds Tour
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Wellington LoTR Tour + Weta Workshop
• Wildlife Cruise Otago Peninsula
• Wine Tour - Grape Escape Hawkes Bay
• Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise
• Return airport transfers - flight details to be provided 14 days prior to travel