Day 1: Arrive Auckland, New Zealand.
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or start exploring.
Day 2: Auckland.
This morning begins with a welcome briefing to meet fellow passengers and your Tour Director. Then enjoy a sightseeing tour, discovering firsthand why Auckland is regarded as one of the best places in the world to live. See the Domain, the city’s oldest park, developed around an extinct volcano. Highlights also include charming Parnell Village, bustling Queens Street, and the Viaduct Harbour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. You may wish to take a trip to the top of Sky Tower, enjoy a sailing experience on Auckland Harbour, or visit nearby picturesque Waiheke Island. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Auckland - Rotorua.
Leave Auckland this morning and journey through lush farmland to Rotorua, home to New Zealand’s Máori culture and geothermal wonders. Our first stop is Te Puia where a guided tour allows you to see bubbling mud, pools of boiling water, and the famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. You’ll also have a chance to witness traditional Máori carving and weaving along with a Máori cultural performance. Then, visit Agrodome to learn more about one of the country’s major industries--sheep! This evening is at leisure. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Rotorua.
Today we continue our journey on the North Island traveling past Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Later, arrive in Napier, located in the beautiful Hawk’s Bay region. This afternoon, a walking tour explains how a natural disaster resulted in Napier becoming one of the purest Art Deco cities in the world. With the rest of the day at leisure, you may wish to take a stroll on the beach, shop for a favorite souvenir, or visit the National Aquarium to see sharks, stingrays, penguins, and more. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Rotorua - Lake Taupo - Marton - Wellington.
Today, continue your journey on the North Island traveling past Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stop in the historic town of Marton to visit a local farm for lunch. During your time here, tour a tour of the farm and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy. Continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city known for its vibrant art scene, world-class restaurant culture, and active outdoor lifestyle. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Wellington
This morning, a sightseeing tour includes the famous Beehive and Parliament building and panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. . Included meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Wellington - Interislander Ferry -Picton - Christchurch.
Today, enjoy a special treat as you sail from Wellington to Picton and enjoy the spectacular Marlborough Sound on one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Make sure to have your camera ready as dolphins are frequent traveling companions of the ferry. On occasion, you might even spot a pod of whales or some penguins swimming by. Continue to Christchurch, the largest city on the South IsIand for an overnight stay. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Christchurch - Lake Tekapo - Queenstown.
Our journey continues across New Zealand’s South Island today. This is the land of towering mountains, rugged coastlines, and sweeping plains. Stop at beautiful Lake Tekapo for a visit to the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd. Later, arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital,” for a 3-night stay. This evening you may want to take the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu below. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Queenstown.
A full free day to explore on your own. You may want to take the historic TSS Earnslaw Steamship to Walter Peak Farm for a delicious lunch or dinner, discover a favorite boutique or art gallery, or take an exciting helicopter ride over the Remarkables Mountains. Tonight, join your Tour Director and travel companions for a festive farewell dinner. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Queenstown. Excursion to Milford Sound.
Today, enjoy a full-day excursion to breathtaking Milford Sound. Cruise to see cascading waterfalls, sheer cliff walls, tropical rainforest, wildlife including seals and dolphins, and fantastic scenery. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip! Return to Queenstown late this evening.
Day 11: Queenstown.
Your vacation ends this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. Included meals: Breakfast
