Key
● Included
● Arranged
● Optional add-on
01
Day
Arrival - Welcome to Auckland
Auckland · Overnight: Auckland
On arrival
Arrival
Included
Airport transfer & hotel check-in
Your private transfer will be waiting upon arrival at Auckland International Airport. Your representative will assist with luggage and escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. We recommend taking the afternoon to relax and settle in - Auckland's mild autumn weather is perfect for a gentle stroll along the Viaduct Harbour.
7:00 PM
Evening
Included
Welcome cocktail reception
This evening we invite you to join us for a welcome cocktail reception - an opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and your tour host, who will walk you through the exciting days ahead. A warm toast to mark the beginning of your New Zealand adventure.
8:30 PM
Night
Included
Welcome dinner
Dinner this evening has been reserved at one of Auckland's finest restaurants. Sit back, enjoy the cuisine, and savour the first of many memorable meals on this journey.
02
Day
Discovering Auckland
Full day in Auckland · Overnight: Auckland
8:00 AM
Morning
Included
Mission Bay waterfront
We begin the day at the beautiful Mission Bay esplanade, with its sweeping views across the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto Island. A wonderful setting for a morning walk and breakfast by the water before the day's exploration begins.
1:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Our afternoon is spent at the Auckland Museum, one of New Zealand's foremost cultural institutions. Your guide will lead you through the outstanding Māori and Pacific galleries, bringing to life the extraordinary heritage and traditions of Aotearoa. Entry and guided orientation are included.
or
Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium Optional add-on
For those who prefer an alternative to the museum, we are pleased to offer a visit to Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium - located just moments from Mission Bay. Guests may walk through the Antarctic Encounter, observe penguins in their naturalistic habitat, and pass through the spectacular underwater shark tunnel.
4:30 PM
Evening
Included
Sky Tower observation deck
As the golden hour approaches, we ascend to the observation deck of the iconic Sky Tower - at 328 metres, it commands unrivalled panoramic views over the city, harbour, and surrounding islands. March sunsets here are truly spectacular.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner
Dinner this evening is at a restaurant of your choice in the vibrant Federal Street dining precinct, just moments from the Sky Tower.
03
Day
Auckland to Rotorua - Via Hamilton & Waitomo
Drive approx. 5.5 hrs with stops · Overnight: Rotorua
7:30 AM
Morning
Included
Depart Auckland
After an early breakfast, we depart Auckland and head south through the lush Waikato countryside. Your coach is fully air-conditioned and equipped for a comfortable journey. An early start ensures we make the very most of the exceptional experiences that await today.
9:30 AM
Morning
Included
Hamilton Gardens
Our first stop is the celebrated Hamilton Gardens - a world-class collection of themed garden rooms set along the banks of the Waikato River. Highlights include the exquisite Indian Char Bagh and the Chinese Scholar's Garden. Your guide will escort you through the gardens before we continue south.
11:30 AM
Morning
Included
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
We continue to one of New Zealand's most extraordinary natural wonders - the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Deep beneath the limestone hills of the Waikato, thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cave ceiling like a constellation of stars. Your expert guide will lead you through the ancient caverns before you glide silently by boat beneath the luminous canopy - a moment of pure wonder that never fails to move our guests. Entry and guided tour are fully included.
1:30 PM
Afternoon
Included
Scenic drive to Rotorua
After lunch at a café near the caves, we continue south into the volcanic plateau of the central North Island. Your guide will bring the landscape to life as we approach the geothermal heartland of Rotorua - the air itself begins to tell the story.
5:30 PM
Evening
Included
Māori cultural village experience
This evening offers one of the most authentic and moving experiences of the entire tour. We are welcomed onto a traditional Māori marae for a cultural performance featuring poi, haka, and waiata (song), followed by a magnificent hāngī feast - a traditional meal slow-cooked in the earth. This is an experience our guests speak of long after returning home.
8:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner - hāngī feast
Tonight's dinner is included as part of the hāngī feast at the cultural village - a generous spread of meats, vegetables, and traditional accompaniments, enjoyed in the convivial atmosphere of the marae.
04
Day
Rotorua to Taupo - Thermal Wonderland
Drive approx. 1 hr · Overnight: Taupo
8:00 AM
Morning
Included
Huka Falls
We begin the morning at Huka Falls, where the mighty Waikato River narrows through a dramatic gorge and thunders over the falls at over 220,000 litres per second. The intensity and vivid turquoise colour of the water never fails to astonish. A short walk through native bush leads to the best viewing platforms.
9:00 AM
Morning
Optional add-on
Huka Jet boat experience
For those seeking a touch of adventure, we have arranged access to the exhilarating Huka Jet - a high-speed jet boat ride through the narrow Huka gorge, including signature 360° spins. This optional experience is one of New Zealand's most iconic thrills.
12:30 PM
Afternoon
Included
Lake Taupo scenic cruise
We board a classic sailing vessel for a leisurely cruise on New Zealand's largest lake. Our route takes us past the famous Māori rock carvings - monumental faces carved into the cliff face, accessible only from the water. A knowledgeable guide will share the history and legend behind these remarkable works.
5:00 PM
Evening
Included
Geothermal walk - Craters of the Moon
As afternoon gives way to evening, we explore the otherworldly landscape of the Wairakei Thermal Valley. Steaming craters, bubbling mud pools, and sulphurous vents create a landscape unlike anywhere else on earth. Your guide will explain the volcanic forces that continue to shape this remarkable terrain.
Optional add-on
Wairakei Terraces Geothermal Spa
For the perfect conclusion to a day immersed in Taupo's volcanic landscape, we are pleased to offer an evening soak at the Wairakei Terraces Geothermal Spa - natural mineral-rich thermal pools set amid silica terraces and native gardens. Few things compare to unwinding beneath the stars in waters warmed by the earth itself. Please inform your tour host at dinner if you would like this arranged.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner
Dinner this evening is at a lakeside restaurant in Taupo, with views across the shimmering waters of Lake Taupo to the volcanic peaks beyond. Reservations have been made on your behalf.
05
Day
Taupo to Christchurch - Gateway to the South
Fly approx. 1 hr 15 min · Overnight: Christchurch
Morning
Morning
Included
Flight to Christchurch
This morning we transfer to Auckland Airport for our flight to Christchurch, the gateway to New Zealand's South Island. All domestic flights have been arranged and ticketed as part of your tour. Your representative will assist with check-in and boarding.
1:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Arrive Christchurch - hotel check-in
Upon arrival in Christchurch, your private transfer will be waiting to escort you to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to rest and refresh after the flight.
4:30 PM
Evening
Included
Christchurch city centre walk
This evening we take a guided walk through the heart of Christchurch - a city that has emerged from the adversity of the 2011 earthquakes with remarkable creativity and resilience. We visit Cathedral Square, the striking Cardboard Cathedral, the award-winning Avon River Promenade, and the colourful Re:START Mall. The story of Christchurch's regeneration is both humbling and inspiring.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner
Dinner is at a highly regarded Christchurch restaurant. The city's dining scene has flourished in recent years and offers an excellent reflection of New Zealand's finest produce.
06
Day
Christchurch to the West Coast - The TranzAlpine & Ross
TranzAlpine rail to Greymouth, then private transfer to Ross · Overnight: Ross (Cabin by the Sea)
8:15 AM
Morning
Included
Board the TranzAlpine at Christchurch Station
This morning we board the world-renowned TranzAlpine - widely regarded as one of the great scenic train journeys on earth. Your seats are reserved and tickets confirmed. As the train departs Christchurch, the wide Canterbury Plains stretch out ahead of you.
10:00 AM
Morning
Included
Crossing the Southern Alps
The journey climbs steadily into the Southern Alps, threading through the Waimakariri Gorge, over the Staircase Viaduct, and through the Otira Tunnel. An open-air viewing carriage is available throughout the journey, allowing you to feel the mountain air and take in the gorges, beech forests, and braided rivers unfolding on either side.
1:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Arrive Greymouth
We arrive into Greymouth on the wild West Coast, a striking contrast to the landscapes left behind on the eastern side of the Alps. Your private transfer will be waiting at the station.
2:15 PM
Afternoon
Included
Private transfer to Ross
Your private vehicle will take you south along the coast to the small seaside settlement of Ross, a former gold-mining town turned peaceful retreat. Check-in is at your Cabin by the Sea, a cosy retreat just steps from the water.
6:30 PM
Evening
Included
Log fire evening by the sea
The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. There is little to do here but everything to feel - the crisp, clean West Coast air, the sound of the Tasman Sea, and a crackling log fire in your cabin as the sky darkens. A wonderfully quiet contrast to the rest of the tour.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner in Ross
Dinner this evening is at a local eatery in Ross, showcasing the simple, hearty fare the West Coast is known for.
07
Day
Ross to Franz Josef - Glaciers & Wildlife
Transfer approx. 1 hr to Franz Josef · Overnight: Franz Josef
9:00 AM
Morning
Included
Transfer to Franz Josef
After breakfast, we transfer north along the coastal highway to the glacier town of Franz Josef, home to one of the few glaciers in the world that descends so close to a temperate rainforest.
11:00 AM
Morning
Optional add-on
Helicopter ride to Fox Glacier
For those seeking an unforgettable perspective, we have arranged the option of a scenic helicopter flight to nearby Fox Glacier - soaring over ice fields, crevasses, and alpine peaks before a snow landing high on the glacier itself. Weather-dependent and entirely optional; please confirm with your tour host by morning.
or
Day at leisure - Kiwi bird sanctuary & local attractions Included
If you would prefer not to take the helicopter tour, the day is yours at leisure. We recommend a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see the rare and endangered kiwi bird up close in its nocturnal house, along with the other local galleries, walks, and cafés Franz Josef has to offer.
3:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Franz Josef Glacier Valley walk
Later in the day, we take an easy walk into the Franz Josef Glacier Valley, following the braided riverbed towards the terminal face for striking views of the glacier tucked between rainforest-clad valley walls.
6:30 PM
Evening
Arranged
Free evening in Franz Josef
The evening is at leisure to relax in this small alpine village. Your tour host can recommend a spot for a warm drink or a soak in one of the local hot pools.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner in Franz Josef
Dinner this evening is at a local restaurant in the village, a relaxed way to close out your time on the West Coast.
08
Day
Franz Josef to Queenstown - Over the Alps & Into Wine Country
Drive via Haast Pass & Wanaka, approx. 6–7 hrs with stops · Overnight: Queenstown
8:00 AM
Morning
Included
Depart Franz Josef
We depart Franz Josef and follow the dramatic West Coast highway south before turning inland over the Haast Pass, one of New Zealand's most scenic alpine crossings, with waterfalls tumbling from the rainforest at every turn.
12:30 PM
Afternoon
Included
Award-winning winery tour & lunch
En route to Queenstown we stop at one of the region's award-winning wineries for a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, followed by a leisurely lunch paired with the estate's own wines - a relaxed and indulgent midway point in the day's journey.
2:30 PM
Afternoon
Included
Continue to Queenstown via Lake Wanaka
We continue on towards Queenstown, skirting the shores of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, two of the South Island's most photogenic alpine lakes.
3:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Arrive Queenstown - hotel check-in
We arrive into Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, with check-in at your hotel around 3:00 PM. The remainder of the afternoon is free to settle in and take in your first views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
7:00 PM
Night
Included
Dinner in Queenstown
Dinner this evening is at a well-regarded restaurant in central Queenstown, a fitting welcome to this spectacular lakeside town.
09
Day
Queenstown - Adventure & Discovery
Full day in Queenstown · Overnight: Queenstown
8:00 AM
Morning
Included
Glenorchy scenic drive
We begin the day with a journey along one of New Zealand's most scenic roads - the 45-kilometre route along Lake Wakatipu to the village of Glenorchy, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Richardson and Humboldt mountain ranges. Immortalised as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings, this landscape is nothing short of cinematic.
11:00 AM
Morning
Optional add-on
Kawarau Bridge bungy jump
For the adventurous in your group, we have arranged access to the world's first commercial bungy jump at the historic Kawarau Bridge - a 43-metre plunge above the turquoise Kawarau River. A true bucket-list experience, entirely optional.
1:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Arrowtown - gold rush heritage
We visit the charming historic township of Arrowtown, where the gold rush of the 1860s has left a beautifully preserved legacy of stone cottages and heritage shopfronts. Your guide will walk you through the Chinese Settlement and the Lakes District Museum, before time is set aside for lunch and browsing the town's boutique stores.
3:30 PM
Afternoon
Optional add-on
Shotover Jet canyon experience
We return to Queenstown for one of its most celebrated thrills - the Shotover Jet. Racing through the narrow rock walls of the Shotover River canyon at high speed, with breathtaking 360° spins, this 25-minute experience is exhilarating from start to finish.
5:30 PM
Evening
Included
Queenstown Gardens lakefront walk
As the day draws to a close, we enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Queenstown Gardens and along the lakefront jetty - a peaceful contrast to the day's adventures, with the last light catching the peaks of The Remarkables across the water.
7:30 PM
Night
Arranged
Free evening in Queenstown
This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Queenstown offers an exceptional selection of restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Your tour host can provide personal recommendations to suit every taste and mood.
10
Day
Milford Sound - The Eighth Wonder
Drive to Te Anau & Milford Sound (or optional Fly-Cruise-Fly from Queenstown) · Overnight: Te Anau
6:30 AM
Morning
Included
Early departure for Milford Sound
Today is one of the great days of the entire tour. We depart early to make the most of the extraordinary journey along the Milford Road - regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world. Your guide will narrate the landscape as we pass through beech forests, alongside alpine lakes, and beneath waterfalls cascading from sheer cliff faces.
Optional add-on
Upgrade - Fly-Cruise-Fly from Queenstown
For guests who would prefer to bypass the road journey altogether, we offer an optional fly-cruise-fly upgrade. A scenic aircraft departs directly from Queenstown Airport for Milford Sound, soaring over the peaks, lakes, and glaciers of Fiordland National Park - a spectacular alternative to the drive. Guests on this upgrade meet the group at Milford Sound in time for the cruise, then fly directly back to Queenstown afterwards rather than returning to Te Anau. This upgrade includes an additional overnight in Queenstown, with accommodation arranged on your behalf, in place of the overnight in Te Anau - guests then rejoin the group transfer to the airport from Queenstown the following morning. Please confirm this upgrade with your tour host in advance, as it is subject to availability and weather conditions.
12:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Milford Sound scenic cruise
We board our vessel for a two-hour cruise through the heart of Milford Sound - Piopiotahi. Sheer rock walls rise over 1,200 metres on either side as we glide past Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and Lady Bowen Falls. The scale and silence of the fiord is overwhelming in the most magnificent way. Your guide will share the natural and spiritual significance of this place to the Māori people. Guests on the Fly-Cruise-Fly upgrade join the cruise directly at Milford Sound.
3:00 PM
Afternoon
Included
Return drive to Te Anau
We make our way back along the Milford Road at a leisurely pace, with further stops at the Chasm and Mirror Lakes. Arriving in Te Anau in the late afternoon, there is time to stroll along the shores of Lake Te Anau - the largest lake on the South Island. Guests on the Fly-Cruise-Fly upgrade will instead fly directly back to Queenstown from Milford Sound.
6:00 PM
Evening
Included
Te Anau township
The tranquil township of Te Anau provides a wonderful contrast to the drama of the day. Your guide can arrange an optional glowworm cave tour by boat on the lake for those who wish to extend the evening.
7:30 PM
Night
Included
Dinner in Te Anau
This evening's dinner has been reserved at Te Anau's most celebrated dining establishment, serving outstanding South Island produce in a warm and intimate setting. Guests on the Fly-Cruise-Fly upgrade will overnight in Queenstown and dine independently - your tour host will provide recommendations.
11
Day
Farewell - Until We Meet Again
Te Anau → Queenstown → Auckland → India · Overnight: Homeward bound
5:00 AM
Morning
Included
Private transfer to Queenstown Airport
Your private vehicle will be at the hotel entrance at 5:00 AM for the two-hour transfer to Queenstown Airport. Your luggage will be collected from outside your room. We thank you for ensuring an early night ahead of this departure. Guests who overnighted in Queenstown will be collected directly from their hotel.
~9:00 AM
Afternoon
Included
Fly to Auckland
Your domestic flight to Auckland has been ticketed and confirmed. Upon arrival in Auckland, your airport representative will assist you through the terminal and escort you to the international check-in hall. If time permits, Auckland's Viaduct Harbour is a wonderful spot for a final coffee by the water.
~11:30 AM
Evening
Arranged
International departure - fly to India
As you depart New Zealand's shores, we trust that this journey has left you with memories to last a lifetime. From the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the star-filled skies above Tekapo, the drama of Milford Sound and the warmth of the Māori welcome - New Zealand has a way of staying with those who visit. We hope to welcome you back one day. Safe travels and a wonderful journey home.