Itinerary Details
Day 1: Welcome to Auckland
Arrive at Auckland International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your dedicated guide and coach captain who will accompany you throughout your 10-day journey. Begin with a panoramic city tour to get your bearings, taking in Auckland’s sparkling harbours and volcanic landscapes. Dive into the culture of New Zealand’s most beloved sport with a guided visit to the All Blacks Experience, where state-of-the-art technology brings the haka and game day to life. Step onto a four-metre high screen stage to feel the full force of the haka and test your own rugby skills in interactive zones. This unique attraction pays homage not just to the All Blacks but to every team that wears New Zealand’s famous black jersey. Later, ascend the iconic Sky Tower, soaring 328 metres above the city for spectacular views of islands, volcanoes, and glittering waters. Enjoy the thrill of glass-floored elevators and 360-degree observation decks. Relax this evening at your central hotel.
Welcome reception to get to know your fellow travelers and soon be friends.
Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)
Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.
Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.
Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.
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Day 2: Waiheke Island Wine & SceneryAfter breakfast, cruise across sparkling Hauraki Gulf waters to Waiheke Island, a haven of vineyards, olive groves, and pristine beaches just 35 minutes from downtown Auckland. Explore the island on a guided scenic tour, learning about its unique history, culture, and coastal landscapes. Your Essence of Wine Tour takes you to three boutique vineyards for tastings of Waiheke’s acclaimed wines. Relish a one-course lunch paired with a glass of wine at a local favourite, then enjoy time to soak in the relaxed island atmosphere. Along the way, admire native bushland, seaside villages, and sweeping views of the gulf. Return by ferry in the evening with new appreciation for Auckland’s “island of wine.”
Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)
Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.
Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.
Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Waitomo Glow & Maori Traditions in RotoruaJourney south to Rotorua, pausing at Waitomo to experience world-famous limestone landscapes and underground wonders. On arrival in Rotorua, step into a world of culture and geothermal magic at Te Puia’s Te Po Experience. Wander through Whakarewarewa geothermal valley with its bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers, then witness traditional Maori carving and weaving at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Visit the Kiwi Conservation Centre to spot this rare and beloved bird. As night falls, share in a stirring powhiri (welcome ceremony), savour a hangi-inspired buffet, and be moved by a powerful cultural performance. Conclude your evening with hot chocolate under the stars as the geyser is illuminated. For a brand-new experience, see Te Puia’s geothermal wonders transformed by light at the Marama Light Trail, with art, soundscapes, and Maisey Rika’s haunting music guiding your path.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel Rotorua (4 Star Rating)
Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Perfect for leisure and business travellers, our hotel is within walking distance of Polynesian Spa, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene, and local attractions.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Rotorua’s Geothermal & Kiwi EncountersThis morning, visit Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, where vivid pools, steaming craters, and bubbling mud showcase nature’s artistry. Be sure to catch the Lady Knox Geyser erupting to heights of 20 metres. Next, head to the National Kiwi Hatchery, a world leader in kiwi conservation. Go behind the scenes to see kiwi eggs incubating, learn about hatching techniques, and even glimpse newly hatched chicks. Wander interactive exhibits and step inside a nocturnal house to watch these shy birds forage in darkness. The experience is both educational and inspiring, with every ticket helping to fund kiwi protection. The afternoon is free to enjoy Rotorua’s lakeside setting or optional adventures such as a spa, gondola ride, or cultural shows.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel Rotorua (4 Star Rating)
Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Perfect for leisure and business travellers, our hotel is within walking distance of Polynesian Spa, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene, and local attractions.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5: Christchurch ReimaginedAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Christchurch (flight not included). On arrival, rejoin your coach and enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of this dynamic city. See how Christchurch has risen from the devastating 2011 earthquakes with innovative architecture, creative street art, and beautifully restored gardens. Discover the blend of old and new as heritage buildings stand alongside striking modern spaces. Stroll through the rejuvenated central city, where the Avon River meanders past cafés and galleries. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore further or simply relax at your hotel.
Hotel: Distinction Christchurch Hotel (4 Star Rating)
The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6: TranzAlpine & Stargazing in TekapoBoard the legendary TranzAlpine Train, one of the world’s great rail journeys. Travel across the Canterbury Plains, through deep gorges, and past snow-capped peaks before disembarking at Arthur’s Pass. Continue by coach to the tranquil lakeside town of Tekapo, pausing at a working farm to glimpse authentic Kiwi country life. As night falls, marvel at the southern skies in a designated Dark Sky Reserve. Your Crater Experience at Cowan’s Private Observatory includes guided stargazing with telescopes that reveal galaxies, planets, and star clusters. With almost no light pollution, the view is nothing short of breathtaking.
Hotel: Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo (4 Star Rating)
Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo is located overlooking the breathtaking Lake Tekapo between Christchurch and Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island. The hotel has spectacular views across Lake Tekapo, the focal point of the Mackenzie Basin. This is the perfect base for exploring the region including Mt Cook National Park. There are 60 stylish lakeside rooms offered in a range of accommodation options including one, two and three bedroom luxury villas and apartments. Rakinui Restaurant and Lounge is a place to eat, drink and relax amongst warm friendly surroundings.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Scenic Drive to Queenstown via Mount CookToday’s journey takes you through alpine landscapes en route to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. Stop to admire glacier-fed lakes and alpine vistas before continuing south through Central Otago. If time allows, visit charming Cromwell or historic Arrowtown, once a gold-rush village. Arrive in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, set against a backdrop of jagged peaks and Lake Wakatipu. Settle into your hotel and perhaps enjoy an evening stroll along the lakeside promenade.
Hotel: Millennium Queenstown (4 Star Rating)
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star hotel located in central Queenstown, just a short walk from the lake, shops, and popular attractions. It offers 220 comfortable rooms, many with mountain or lake views.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and meeting rooms. It’s close to adventure activities like skiing, jet boating, and hiking. Guests like its quiet location, friendly staff, and clean rooms.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 8: Milford Sound WondersAn early departure takes you through Fiordland National Park’s dramatic scenery en route to Milford Sound. Board your cruise and glide past sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and rainforest while keeping an eye out for dolphins and seals. A seasonal packed lunch is included, so you can relax and soak up the views throughout your journey. The majesty of Mitre Peak rising directly from the water is a highlight. For a special option (additional cost), consider flying back to Queenstown over alpine peaks and glacial valleys for a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder.
Hotel: Millennium Queenstown (4 Star Rating)
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star hotel located in central Queenstown, just a short walk from the lake, shops, and popular attractions. It offers 220 comfortable rooms, many with mountain or lake views.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and meeting rooms. It’s close to adventure activities like skiing, jet boating, and hiking. Guests like its quiet location, friendly staff, and clean rooms.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Queenstown Highlights & Farewell DinnerExplore Queenstown and its surrounds, beginning with picturesque Arrowtown, a former gold-mining settlement. View the thrill-seekers leaping from Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of bungy jumping, and admire the beauty of Lake Wakatipu. This afternoon, indulge in a Kinross Wine Experience in the Gibbston Valley, sampling some of Central Otago’s finest vintages while learning about the unique terroir of the region. Tonight, celebrate your journey with a memorable farewell dinner as you take a gondola ride up Bob’s Peak for panoramic dining experience at Skyline Queenstown,
Hotel: Millennium Queenstown (4 Star Rating)
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star hotel located in central Queenstown, just a short walk from the lake, shops, and popular attractions. It offers 220 comfortable rooms, many with mountain or lake views.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and meeting rooms. It’s close to adventure activities like skiing, jet boating, and hiking. Guests like its quiet location, friendly staff, and clean rooms.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Farewell New ZealandAfter breakfast, transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking home unforgettable memories of rugby legends, Maori traditions, natural wonders, and star-studded skies.
Meal(s): Breakfast
