A long wandering and eventful journey discovering the most magical regions of New Zealand. The contrasts within New Zealand are remarkable. Explore and learn about the history and heritage, flora and fauna. Our journey will take you from the cosmopolitan City of Sails to the awe-inspiring beauty of Milford Sound.
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the beautiful "City of Sails".
Day 2: Auckland/Waitomo/Rotorua
(226 miles/363 kms) (lunch and dinner included) (optional meal plans begin today) Travel to the fascinating Waitomo Caves for lunch and a guided tour of the Glowworm Grotto. Continue on to Rotorua. In the evening, enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and Concert.
Day 3: Rotorua Sightseeing
This morning experience Rotorua's many varied sights. Visit Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Learn about Maori crafts at Te Puia, before visiting Rainbow Springs and Agrodome Farm Show. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 4: Rotorua/Wellington
(flight not included) Fly to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. The rest of your day is at leisure. Make time to visit "Te Papa" the Museum of New Zealand.
Day 5: Wellington/Christchurch
(212 miles/341 kms – including ferry crossing) Travel on the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait to Picton. Join the TranzCoastal train to Christchurch, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 6: Christchurch
A day at leisure to enjoy the "Garden City".
Day 7: Christchurch/Mt Cook/Dunedin
(369 miles/593 kms) Today travel by coach through the Mackenzie country, and view Lake Tekapo, Aoraki- Mount Cook National Park. Continue on to Dunedin.
Dunedin Queenstown
(176 miles/283 kms) Board the Taieri Gorge train and enjoy the rugged, unspoilt landscape and the opportunity for sightseeing stops. Experience breathtaking views of this historic journey to Pukerangi where you will then continue your journey to Queenstown. Option: add an extra day in Dunedin for touring.
Day 9: Milford Sound Day Excursion
Travel by coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau. From the Homer Tunnel emerge into the Cleddau Valley. Join your Milford Sound Red Boat Cruise for an unforgettable experience. Return to Queenstown.
Day 10: Queenstown
A free day to enjoy the many activities on offer. Perhaps take a trip on the historic Kingston Flyer steam train, which operates seasonally.
Day 11: Queenstown/Franz Josef
(251 miles/404 kms) Travel north enjoying coastal scenery en route to Franz Josef Village. We suggest an optional scenic glacier flight.
Day 12: Franz Josef/TranzAlpine
(249 miles/400 kms) Travel to Greymouth to board the TranzAlpine train for a spectacular scenic journey to Christchurch, arriving early evening.
