AAT Kings - New Zealand escorted tours

Wander up one of the forty eight volcanic cones that make up the rolling landscape of Auckland for panoramic city views. Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington's golden-sand inner city beach. Amble alongside the Avon River, as it runs through the heart of Christchurch. Each of New Zealand's major cities offers something unique and charming.

The 9 day Southern Spotlight tour explores the wonderful scenery of the South Island. The city of Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook, Dunedin, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Glacier and you take the world famous TranzAlpine train from Arthurs Pass to Christchurch. With lots of opportunities to enjoy the many great optional tours and activities this is the ideal tour for those wishing to see the best of the South Island at a relaxing pace.

This epic New Zealand journey spans both Islands of this small, proud nation, revealing majestic snowcapped mountains, rugged coastlines, ice-blue lakes and sweeping rural vistas. Stories of the history and traditions of Māori culture and the intrepid settlers of Central Otago emerge as you travel from the stunning Bay of Islands in the north to the vibrant, multicultural city of Queenstown and awesome Milford Sound in the spectacular South Island.

Follow the path of pioneer settlers as you travel the North Island of New Zealand, the birthplace of the country's European history. This journey takes you from the shores of the beautiful Bay of Islands to Rotorua, rich in Māori culture and traditions, and onto the spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park the thriving modern capital, Wellington.

This classic New Zealand itinerary spans both North and South Islands, leading you through majestic panoramas from the glaciers of the West Coast to the sensational alpine landscapes of Lake Tekapo and Mt. Cook National Park, and the extraordinary geothermal fields of Rotorua. Glimpses of traditional Māori history and culture deepen your experience as you explore the marvellous Land of The Long White Cloud.

Explore the dramatic South Island on this 9 day tour. Crossing the Southern Alps to the Wild West Coast and Franz Josef Glacier. Travel through Mt Aspiring National Park to Queenstown, the Alpine Resort town is renowned for its exciting activities and spectacular scenery. Enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound before crossing the rolling hills of Southland towards Dunedin, 'the Edinburgh of the South'. Through the Waitaki region and onto Mt Cook National Park and the magical high country of Mackenzie before returning to the garden city of Christchurch.
 

Spend time with a Kiwi couple who will tell you about the joys and challenges of farming in the foothills of the Southern Alps. Watch master carvers as they create works of art from blocks of magnificent New Zealand greenstone. These personal encounters provide a human touch that complements the grandeur of the renowned natural beauty of The Land of the Long White Cloud, with its soaring peaks and waterfalls and its serene lakes and pastureland.

Journey through landscapes that blend magnificent beaches, sprawling farmlands and geothermal wonders, as you make your way to the Far North. Explore fertile heartland, showcasing lush forests, rugged mountains and steep gorges. Experience Maori culture through fascinating legends and prepare yourself for the energy of the haka.

Slumber under a star-studded sky in your private cabin on a Milford Sound cruiser, and stroll along deserted golden beaches in New Zealand’s only coastal national park. This comprehensive journey takes you through both North and South Islands to a wonderland of towering snowcapped mountains, ice-blue glaciers, pristine lakes and World Heritage sites of extraordinary volcanic activity, and reveals fascinating insights into the intriguing culture of the original inhabitants, the Māori.

All bookings for this tour require an additional NZD$500 deposit per person to secure the room on the overnight cruise.

Explore the best of New Zealand's North Island cities and regional areas. Immerse yourself in rich cultural history and be comfortable every step of the way. As always with an AAT Kings tour, you'll be guided by a wealth of knowledge making sure you get the best out of your New Zealand vacation.