Day 1: Auckland

You will receive a welcome package on arrival which will include a welcome letter, detailed itinerary, voucher summary including supplier contact list as well as a 'sustainability pack' with reusable water bottles and carry bag. No physical vouchers will be included. This will be available at your first hotel. Please request upon check in if not presented to you or in your room upon arrival.

Meet your private driver for a transfer between the airport and your hotel.

Where you’ll be staying: Hotel De Brett Boutique Suite

Day 2: Auckland

Meet your private guide at your city hotel to begin an exclusive half-day walking tour into the heart of Auckland. Nicknamed the "City of Sails" for its abundance of yacht marinas and its rich maritime history, Auckland is New Zealand's largest and most bustling city, often confused for its capital. Along with your guide, you'll not only discover the city's history, sights, and sounds, but you'll also experience a glimpse into daily Aucklander life. Discover Princes Wharf, once a commercial wharf on the city's waterfront now re-developed into a dazzling hub of bars and eateries, looking out to Waitemata Harbor. Visit the NZ Maritime Museum and learn of the early arrivals to the country, from early Polynesians to the Europeans. Meander through the entertainment district of Viaduct Harbor, home to buzzing night life and gourmet experiences. Stroll through Auckland's entertainment district, Wynward Quarter for gorgeous skyline views and head just a few minutes east to explore they city's famous Laneways and the Britomart Pavilions, a chic hub for fashion and eateries, ideal for treating your palette to a sweet treat or adding a new accessory to your wardrobe. Your walking tour concludes with a return to your Auckland hotel.

After arriving into New Zealand from North America, guests often find that jet lag begins to set in by the afternoon. Today, recharge for the days to come with a half-day at leisure. Should you be feeling energetic, Auckland is a vibrant city that is easily explored on foot.

Where you’ll be staying: Hotel De Brett Boutique Suite

Day 3: Auckland To Waiheke Island

Travel with Fullers Ferry to Waiheke Island. It's 35 square miles of sandy beaches, vineyards, native bush settings pristine coastline, olive groves and laid back seaside villages' only 40 minutes cruise from downtown Auckland.

Setting out in a small group of no more than 8 participants, experience the twin headlands of Matiatia and Church Bay on Waiheke Island on a guided shared walk, ideal for those who enjoy extended walks. Upon arrival to Waiheke Island’s Matiatie dock, you will be met by your small group's guide. After introductions, you will set out to walk the headland track around the Matiatia headland and past Owhanake Bay which takes nearly two hours. On your way around the Matiatia headland, enjoy beautiful views of the Hauraki Gulf Islands, Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel; spot sea birds, native plants and, if you're lucky, orcas or dolphins. Learn about the history and ecology of the Hauraki Gulf and Waiheke Island, its conservation projects and island life. Stop for a picnic-style lunch (included) at Oneroa Village or down on the beach. After lunch you will walk the Te Pio Rehiti Reserve and around the Church Bay headland through a sculpture park and a stunning bush reserve, past amazing homes, city and sea views which will take another two hours. Your walk ends back at Matiatia dock, at which time you are free to continue exploring or to return to your accommodation.

Take the ferry to travel from Waiheke Island to Auckland Downtown.

Where you’ll be staying: Hotel De Brett Boutique Suite

Day 4: Auckland To Rotorua To Waitomo Caves

This morning you will meet your private driver guide in the lobby of your hotel and begin your scenic journey from the city of Auckland to Rotorua. En-route the transfer will visit the Waitomo Caves that are famous for their glowworms. Lunch and entrance fees are not included. The transfer takes nine hours, depending on the type of touring in Waitomo.

Admire the shimmering spectacle of Footwhistle Cave, home to a stunning glowworm display within the largest cave found in Waitomo. Led by your knowledgeable private guide, you'll enter this fascinating cave and learn of its rich history while viewing a magnificent display of the bio-luminescent insects, some mere inches away from you. Meander around the cave's corner to discover the remains of one of New Zealand's lost treasures - the ancient Moa, once the country's largest bird that fell extinct almost 600 years ago. Experience the soothing sounds of the cave's stream flowing below you in the darkness, as low lights cast a warm glow over stunning limestone formations of stalactites and stalagmites. After enjoying a relaxed stroll through the cave, you'll take a seat in Footwhistle’s cathedral for a short but breathtaking show as the cave is illuminated by a dazzling magnesium torch. Just outwith of the cave's entrance, a traditional Ponga hut offers a special tea tasting featuring kawakawa, a special herb to the Maori often used as a health tonic. A memorable experience for all, this glowworm cave adventure offers a relaxed atmosphere in which you can see how nature truly shines.

Where you’ll be staying: On The Point Lodge Suite

Day 5: Rotorua

Visit Rotorua’s most natural and popular geothermal parks on this full day private guided tour. Your local guide will explain the volcanic and geothermal processes of Rotorua and New Zealand. You will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool and many multicoloured hot springs on your journey around volcanic landscapes, farmland and through native and exotic forests. At Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland the amazingly colourful hot springs and moon-like landscapes are the key features along with the famous Lady Knox geyser. At Waimangu Volcanic valley the guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption, native flora and fauna and the geothermal features which were blown open in 1886. Conclude the day with a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Immerse yourself in a sensory journey at Te Pa Tu, a forest Pa (village) where culture, history, and cuisine come to life. Nestled among towering Tawa trees and illuminated by bonfires, this celebration and feast showcase the rich traditions of the Maori people, evolving with the seasons of the Maori lunar calendar. From November to April, during Summer's Tu Te Ra phase, the sun's energy and the abundance of harvest is honored, while delving into the history of Maori warfare and peace. From May to October, in Winter's Tu Te Ihi, it's a time to pay homage to the Matariki stars, symbolizing energy and passion. No matter the season, you'll savor Maori delicacies such as roasted tuna, creamy paua (abalone), smoked kahawai, and more, accompanied by torchlight guiding guests to a lavish yet relaxed four-course feast. Hangi takes center stage, complemented by fusion-style dishes like Wagyu picanha, watercress chimichurri, and kumara ice cream, each inspired by traditional ingredients and stories. Whether dining al fresco or in the wharekai (dining room), celebrate the spirit of hakari - feasting - and the essence of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Where you’ll be staying: On The Point Lodge Suite

Day 6: Rotorua To Christchurch

A privately driven vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel today.

Board a flight in Rotorua with service to Christchurch. Approximate direct flight duration is one hour and 55 minutes.
This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.

A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.

Where you’ll be staying: Sudima Christchurch City Centre Premium King

Day 7: Christchurch

Meet your private driver-guide at your hotel to embark on an exploration of the city's bustling hub, followed by an epicurean treat in the wine region of Waipara. You'll first stop at the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, also known as the Cardboard Cathedral due to its re-build out of cardboard post-earthquake. The cathedral, renovated by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban, now serves as a symbol of the city's resilience. Observe the city's Arts Centre, home to one of the best examples of Neo-Gothic architecture, showcasing many craft shops and galleries. See Canterbury Museum, showcasing early colonial history and antique artifacts, dedicated to preserving the country's rich cultural heritage. A short drive north takes you into the Waipara wine region, known for its silky Pinot Noirs and crisp Sauvignon Blancs. Here you'll visit up to a selection of three wonderful boutique wineries, a true treat for the palate. Indulge in a delicious lunch before transferring back to your hotel.

Where you’ll be staying: Sudima Christchurch City Centre Premium King

Day 8: Christchurch

Journey across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains to Springfield to take photos of the mountains rising above you while aboard the famed TranzAlpine train. The voyage through the gorge is spectacular and leads to the massifs of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. Having arrived at Arthur’s Pass village, join your guide on an adventure that best suits your interests. The first option is the set off to view the Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system. To do so, you’ll follow the old stage coach route, viewing the spectacular Otira Gorge – testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone – along the way before arriving at the Cave Stream where a thread of water has carved a circular tunnel through an area of limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops. The area was featured in the film adaptation of CS Lewis’s The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, making it a site of particular interest for nature enthusiasts who also enjoy a good movie. Alternatively, set off with your guide to visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique weather-worn rain outcrops of limestone widely regarded as sacred by the Maori. These incredible formations are simply mesmerizing, made all the more impressive by the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Following your privately guided adventure in Arthur’s Pass, you’ll return to Christchurch via Porter’s Pass and the Canterbury Plains.
Please note: The weather is extreme and unpredictable. In order to ensure an enjoyable experience, please wear a wind- and water-proof jacket, sweater, breathable hiking gear, comfortable hiking shoes, and hat, as well as day pack with room for water, snacks, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm.

Where you’ll be staying: Sudima Christchurch City Centre Premium King

Day 9: Christchurch To Queenstown

A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.

Board a flight in Christchurch with service to Queenstown. Approximate direct flight duration is one hour and 15 minutes.
This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.

Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.

This evening, consider dining at one of Queenstown's many excellent establishments. For a fine dining experience, we recommend Botswana Butchery, Rata or Eichardt's Bar. For something quick and casual, Ferburger is a local favourite.

Where you’ll be staying: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel Remarkables Room

Day 10: Queenstown

Embark on a small group tour to explore Milford Sound's stunning fiord from two different vantage points; the air and on the water. Upon landing in Milford, take an unforgettable cruise past sheer cliffs, gushing waterfalls and perhaps even spot dolphins, seals and penguins. Afterward, enjoy an exhilarating helicopter flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, landing upon Mount Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park. The trip takes approximately four hours and has a maximum group size of six guests.
Please note: The Department Of Conservation recently reduced the number of concession landings on Ngapunatoru ice plateau (Mt Tutoko). Therefore, a glacier landing on Milford Sound flights can no longer be guaranteed. Alpine landings are offered in lieu.

Where you’ll be staying: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel Remarkables Room

Day 11: Queenstown

Meet your private driver-guide at your accommodation and set off for a memorable 3-hour sightseeing tour of stunning Queenstown. The panoramic viewpoint of Queenstown Hill is the first of several photo stops, allowing you to witness how the vista extends to Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range. The tour then follows a route along the Frankton Arm and into the Wakatipu Basin, passing beautiful Lake Hayes, and into the mouth of the Kawarau Gorge, one of many filming locations for "The Lord of the Rings". You'll next journey a short drive up the road to the Gibbston Valley Winery, where you'll enjoy the opportunity to savor a selection of 4 wines. Continue on to the historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown where you can wander around the shops and cafes in the main street. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your Queenstown accommodation, passing the world-famous Shotover Canyon.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Where you’ll be staying: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel Remarkables Room

Day 12: Queenstown

A private vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel.