New Zealand Wonderland

On arrival in Auckland, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, set off on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity. Later this evening, return to your hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local seasonal produce.

Freedom of Choice – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise

Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat. 

Freedom of Choice – All Blacks Experience

Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story. 

Freedom of Choice – Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo

At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species. 

Freedom of Choice – Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure

Leave the city behind on a half-day tour to Auckland's wild west coast, where black sand beaches meet lush rainforest. With an expert guide, walk among giant tree ferns and learn about the traditional Māori uses for native plants. Then stroll along Piha, a striking black sand beach with views across the Tasman Sea.

Cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Watch as the scenery shifts from rolling green farmland to coastal vistas as you head towards the Bay of Islands, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Discover New Zealand’s most historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which is often called the 'Birthplace of our Nation' by Kiwis, and enjoy an immersive and inspiring cultural performance. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840, an agreement between the British Crown and a significant number of Māori chiefs. See the world's largest war canoe, Ngātokimatawhaorua, and visit Te Whare Rūnanga, a Māori meeting house that reflects stories and carving styles from across the country. Take part in a pōwhiri (welcome) and enjoy a moving cultural performance that includes songs and a traditional haka.

Set sail on a memorable Signature Experience, discovering the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to further explore.  

Signature Experience – Bay of Islands Cruise

Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.

After breakfast, travel from the beautiful Bay of Islands to Auckland, taking in the scenic landscapes of Northland along the way. Enjoy a stop at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe for an insight into the rich pioneering history of the Northland region, as well as a visit to Parry Kauri Park. Upon arrival in Auckland, check in to your hotel and unwind before joining your fellow travellers for dinner.

From Auckland, travel south to Hamilton to explore some of New Zealand's most delightful nature displays during a Signature Experience. Later, continue to Rotorua, where you will enjoy another enriching Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Hamilton Gardens Visit

Explore 4,000 years of gardening history across 18 enclosed gardens at this highly acclaimed botanic garden, ranked among the top things to do in New Zealand. Peruse traditional Māori, Egyptian, Tudor, and Italian Renaissance gardens, and dive into playful themed displays, including the Alice in Wonderland-inspired Surrealist Garden.

Signature Experience – Te Pā Tū

Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

Spend this morning on your Freedom of Choice activity. Afterwards, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore. 

Freedom of Choice – Rotorua Icons

Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show, before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve. 

Freedom of Choice – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy. 

Freedom of Choice – Eco-Thermal Tour

Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Wai-O-Tapu. 

Freedom of Choice – Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa

Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey. The 7-step multisensory process combines Māori culture and traditional healing practices, with the therapeutic elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam.

Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway to the heart of New Zealand’s North Island this morning. Visit Huka Falls and Lake Taupō, before travelling across the plateau of Tongariro National Park to Wellington. 

After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour of Wellington’s best-loved landmarks and sights, including Mount Victoria and the waterfront area. For sweeping views across the entire city, take a return journey on the Wellington Cable Car from the centre of the city, over the hillside terraced houses of Kelburn, to a lofty lookout at the summit. The rest of the day will be yours at leisure to continue exploring this coastal city. You may like to visit New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. Tonight, you might like to dine at a local restaurant (own expense).

This morning, embark on a scenic ferry ride to the South Island during your Signature Experience. Afterwards, journey to the quaint fishing town of Kaikōura before continuing along the central east coast all the way to Christchurch.

Signature Experience – Interislander Ferry

Take the iconic Interislander ferry from Wellington on the North Island to Picton on the South Island. Travel through the serene waters of Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait, then journey through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds.

After a special Signature Experience, disembark at Arthur’s Pass and travel by coach to Hokitika, famous for its stunning coastline and jade carving industry. Pounamu, or greenstone, is plentiful here and holds great cultural significance for the Māori people. Continue to Franz Josef/Waiau, where you will enjoy another Signature Experience. 

Signature Experience – TranzAlpine Train

Experience the romance of rail travel aboard the TranzAlpine train. Admire ever-changing landscapes and spectacular gorges as you journey through the famous Southern Alps and alongside the Waimakariri River on one of the world’s most scenic rail routes. 

Signature Experience – Franz Josef/Waiau

Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Enjoy a two-night stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery and savour a four-course dining experience. 

Select from a range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer today.

Freedom of Choice – Franz Josef/Waiau Guided Nature Walk

Head out on an eco tour and discover the wonders of the Franz Josef Glacier Valley. Marvel at the ancient rainforest and stroll along a pristine glacial-fed river. Your knowledgeable guide will provide profound insights into the surrounding ecosystem, offering fascinating stories about the local history, flora and fauna.

Freedom of Choice – Lake Mapourika Scenic Cruise

Explore Lake Mapourika on a relaxing scenic cruise, where the calm waters create mirror-like reflections of the Southern Alps and surrounding glaciers. Cruise across one of the West Coast's most peaceful environments led by a team of expert local skippers as you spot native birdlife and connect with nature.

Freedom of Choice – West Coast Wildlife Centre VIP Backstage Tour

Enjoy behind-the-scenes access at the West Coast Wildlife Centre and encounter one of New Zealand’s rarest and most beloved birds. This all-weather attraction is home to the hatching and conservation programme for the endangered Rowi and Haast tokoeka kiwi. Take a guided tour, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the West Coast’s rainforest environment.

Freedom of Choice – Franz Josef/Waiau Lomi Lomi Massage

Experience tranquility with a Lomi Lomi massage, the traditional Polynesian technique that features long, flowing strokes from head to toe for deep relaxation. Enjoy your treatment in a rainforest-inspired room, designed to help you slow down and quiet your mind so you leave feeling restored.

Today, admire the magnificent landscape as you travel along the Haast River Valley to Queenstown. This evening, choose where to enjoy dinner with a range of Freedom of Choice Dining options available to you.

Freedom of Choice – Walter Peak

Cruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner featuring succulent meats expertly prepared on the rotisserie and grill, vegetables, a selection of salads and bread. And be sure to leave room for dessert.

Freedom of Choice – Stratosfare Restaurant

Take a magical gondola ride up to the Stratosfare Restaurant on Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown. Feast on an extensive range of New Zealand and international cuisines while enjoying uninterrupted views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Freedom of Choice – Fergburger

This cult burger house achieved worldwide fame in 2015 when its burgers were crowned the world's best in a travel article on the website of news giant CNN. The best burgers in New Zealand, no doubt. The world? You be the judge.

Freedom of Choice – Finz Restaurant

Finz Seafood & Grill offers casual, relaxed waterfront dining right in the heart of Queenstown. Finz is a bustling bistro, where you can enjoy fresh seafood daily and other dishes in a fabulous location.

Freedom of Choice – Your Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a contemporary fusion of local and international cuisine at your hotel.

Choose how you’d like to spend today with a range of sightseeing activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice – The Lord of the Rings 4WD Safari

Discover why this beautiful landscape was chosen to portray Middle-earth in The Lord of the Rings on this sensational 4WD safari. Visit several breathtaking locations where the iconic motion picture trilogy was filmed.

Freedom of Choice – Wine Tour

Embark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries.

Freedom of Choice – Skippers Canyon

Enjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way.

Freedom of Choice – Million Dollar Cruise

Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life, as well as enormous trout, which are plentiful here.

Freedom of Choice – Dart River Wilderness Jet

A wilderness jet boat journey on the glacier-fed Dart River takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, which is part of the larger World Heritage Site of Te Wahipounamu. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history.

Freedom of Choice – Best of Queenstown

Gaze in wonder at the beauty of New Zealand’s adventure capital on this spectacular tour. Take in panoramic views of Queenstown, wander through the historic charm of Arrowtown and visit Ayrburn, Queenstown's newest and most delicious destination. To top it all off, enjoy a wine tasting and cheese platter at a local winery.

Embark on a picturesque drive today as you journey along the Milford Road and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys, then pass through the Homer Tunnel, to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak — the iconic backdrop to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Continue to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a Signature Experience awaits. Afterwards, take a scenic drive to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. Enjoy another Signature Experience in the evening.

Signature Experience – Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise

A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above.

Signature Experience – Taste of Fiordland Dinner

Delight in a delectable Taste of Fiordland dinner this evening at the exceptional MacKinnon Restaurant & Explorer Bar. With a menu that has been carefully crafted to showcase the South Island’s regional cuisine, you’ll savour mouth-watering local fare made from the finest artisan produce.

Today, travel from Te Anau via Queenstown and the stunning Lindis Pass before arriving in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Upon arrival, embark on your chosen Freedom of Choice activity.

Signature Experience – Aoraki/Mount Cook

Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Dine at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant this evening, indulging in a delicious seasonal menu that incorporates the finest local ingredients. 

Freedom of Choice – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Visit the state-of-the-art Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the history of the iconic surrounding region. The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the famous mountaineer and explorer Sir Edmund Hillary and his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook. 

Freedom of Choice – Stargazing

Experience the magic of the night sky in one of the world’s best stargazing locations. Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, learn all about the stars of the southern sky with an expert astronomer.  

Freedom of Choice – Glacier Explorer Cruise

Step aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier — New Zealand’s largest glacier. Surrounded by the dramatic alpine landscape of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you’ll glide across the milky-blue waters while learning about the glacier’s history, geology, and ongoing changes.

Travel to Lake Tekapo/Takapō and take in the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps as well as the lake’s distinctive colours. Pay a visit to the charming Church of the Good Shepherd, which features in many photographs thanks to its beautiful backdrop and surrounds. Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight at your hotel. 

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.