Our suggested itinerary begins on the North Island in Auckland, the nation’s largest city and known as the “City of Sails” because it has more yachts per capita than any other city in the world. Enjoy two nights exploring the sights before venturing north via the Hibiscus Coast to the Bay of Islands for an included cruise. Sailing through the picturesque natural harbor, you’ll have an up-close view of remarkable rock formations, including the famous Hole in the Rock. Arrive in Paihia and enjoy a guided visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Signed here in 1840, it established the foundation for modern New Zealand, and you’ll have a guided visit to this historic site.

Back in Auckland, we suggest a visit to Waiheke Island for wine tasting and art galleries, or perhaps shopping and a nice dinner at the viaduct. At the fascinating Waitomo Caves, your expert guide will lead you on a boat tour of the fascinating Glowworm Grotto, where millions of glowworm residents create a luminescent effect within the network of caves. In the evening, learn about the country’s indigenous culture when you attend a Maori performance and feast in Rotorua. Experience the traditional cooking method for this special meal, called Maori Hangi, which involves cooking in underground pits. You’ll also spend a day touring the famous Rotorua thermal region, the spiritual home of the Maori culture and renowned for its towering geysers, boiling mud and hot springs.

Fly from Rotorua to Queenstown on the South Island (flight is at own expense). Here you will have three nights to truly appreciate the natural beauty of this bustling city, and perhaps try one of the adventure activities such as a jet boat ride, river rafting or hot air ballooning. On one day a full-day Milford Sound tour, with a cruise, is included. Recognized as one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the world, its sheer rock faces, plunging waterfalls and abundant wildlife make this a memorable adventure. Travel north from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mount Cook. Take in some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, including the Southern Alps, before arriving in Christchurch for two nights. Venture to Kaikoura and enjoy a whale watching cruise as a fitting conclusion to your New Zealand adventure.

Price includes:
• Choice of Seat-in-Coach or Self-Drive
• Detailed itinerary including maps
• 11 nights hotel accommodations: 2 nights each in Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua and Christchurch and 3 nights in Queenstown (choice of standard, first class and boutique hotels in each city)
• Hole in the Rock cruise in Bay of Islands
• Waitangi guided tour
• Waitomo Caves guided tour
• Maori Hangi dinner and performance
• Full-day Rotorua sightseeing tour
• Full-day Milford Sound tour including cruise and lunch
• Queenstown - Christchurch via Mt Cook tour (seat-in-coach only) 
• Whale Watching cruise in Kaikoura