This Inspiring Journey provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, from the hot pools of Franz Josef to the brave depths of Queenstown, the adventure capital. Explore extraordinary landscapes and the age-old legends of the Māori as you come face to face with exhilarating New Zealand as few have seen it before.
Small group tour escorted
This suggested tour costs from NZD$11,085 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Auckland
19 days/18 nights
Hotel 4 star
Pre and post tour options? YES
Viewed 29 times in the last 7 days
1 Lunch
12 dinners
All breakfasts
Huka Falls Taupo
Christchurch City Sights tour
Auckland City Sights Tour
Greenstone Jade craft experience
Day 1: Arrive into Christchurch. Accommodation: The George Hotel (or similar)
Day 2: Board the Tranz Alpine Scenic Trail and head through to Arthur's Pass and later onto Franz Josef. Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar)
Day 3: Time to explore the glorious Franz Josef. Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar)
Day 4: Travel over the Haast Pass and past the lakeside towns of Wanaka and Hawea to Queenstown. Accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Day 5: A day free for you to explore the pristine alpine town of Queenstown. Accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Day 6: With so much to do you have a second day to experience all Queenstown has to offer. Accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Day 7: Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to the lakeside town of Te Anau before continuing on to Milford Sound. Accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge
Day 8: Cruise Milford Sound today and experience an informative talk by a local expert. Accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge
Day 9: Journey through pristine rainforest and onto dry arid Central Otago then finally to Dunedin. Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel (or similar)
Day 10: Visit Larnach castle today then see what else Dunedin has to offer. Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel (or similar)
Day 11: Head up the East coast of the South Island to the rebuilt Christchurch city. Accommodation: The George Hotel (or similar)
Day 12: Travel the Pacific Ocean coastline north to Kaikoura and onto Picton before crossing the Cook Straight by ferry to the North Island. Accommodation: Sofitel Wellington
Day 13: A day at leisure to explore New Zealand's Capital city. Accommodation: Sofitel Wellington
Day 14: Head north up the rugged Kapiti Coast, and head East to the architectural delight of the Hawkes Bay. Accommodation: Porters Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 15: A day to spend at leisure today in the Hawkes Bay area. Accommodation: Porters Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 16: Enjoy a morning in Hawke's Bay before heading inland to Huka Falls and on to the cultural centre of New Zealand. Accommodation: Pullman Rotorua (or similar)
Day 17: Visit the famous Redwood trees and head up to experience what it's like to be in their beautiful canopy. Accommodation: Pullman Rotorua (or similar)
Day 18: A leisurely breakfast before heading to Auckland the 'City of Sails'. Accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (or similar)
Day 19: Time to farewell from Auckland.
On arrival in Christchurch, you will be transferred by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Perhaps visit the International Antarctic Centre or Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand’s only open-range zoo. In the evening you will meet your journey Director for a welcome reception.
Your accommodation: The George Hotel (or similar)
The George is the essence of supreme comfort. The award winning 5 star hotel is opposite Hagley Park and just a few minutes stroll from the Botanic Gardens.Today it's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through the southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast, and meet local greenstone (jade) carver for a jewellery demonstration. Later we continue to Franz Josef. Your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. This evening, why not enjoy Franz Josef's local geothermal hot pools or perhaps massage?
Your accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar)
Nestled amongst native West Coast rainforest at Franz Josef is a very special five-star retreat. Designed with utmost care of its precious environment, guests at Te Waonui Forest Retreat will find themselves encircled by rainforest and accommodated in natural and sustainable luxury.Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Today you’ll explore Franz Josef Glacier with your Local Expert Guide on an interpretive tour. This afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers and Mt. Cook (weather permitting).
Your accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar)
Nestled amongst native West Coast rainforest at Franz Josef is a very special five-star retreat. Designed with utmost care of its precious environment, guests at Te Waonui Forest Retreat will find themselves encircled by rainforest and accommodated in natural and sustainable luxury.Meals included: Breakfast
This morning it's time for an adventure as we travel in a purpose-built fully enclosed river jet boat and journey down the Haast River. After a lunch stop at Makarora, we head to Queenstown, taking time to stop to explore the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown on the Arrow River, with an orientation tour on arrival. Tonight, dinner is included at your hotel.
Your accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Awarded the best hotel in the New Zealand Tourism Awards 3 times running this luxury apartment-style hotel is built on an elevated hillside position offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Only a 2 minute walk to the centre of Queenstown's vibrant attractions and activities.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore exciting Queenstown your way! Take the opportunity to encounter a Queenstown legend and ride the Shotover Jet Boat or venture out on a 4WD Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour. If laid-back and relaxed is more your idea of fun then join a Wine Tour and sample some of Central Otago's award-winning wines, or visit our native birds at Queenstown's Kiwi Birdlife Park. Your AAT Kings Travel Director will assist you in booking all of your chosen optional experiences. This evening, enjoy a memorable Highlight Dinner at one of Queenstown's fine dining restaurants, against the backdrop of the beautiful snow-capped Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.
Your accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Awarded the best hotel in the New Zealand Tourism Awards 3 times running this luxury apartment-style hotel is built on an elevated hillside position offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Only a 2 minute walk to the centre of Queenstown's vibrant attractions and activities.Meals included: Breakfast
Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station Otherwise, you could simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafes and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views. Tonight, we have a highlight dinner at one of Queenstown's exclusive restaurants.
Your accommodation: Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Awarded the best hotel in the New Zealand Tourism Awards 3 times running this luxury apartment-style hotel is built on an elevated hillside position offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Only a 2 minute walk to the centre of Queenstown's vibrant attractions and activities.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of the South Island's largest lake. Later you'll travel through the rainforest of World Heritage Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel to the amazing Mirror Lake. Afterwards, walk to see the Chasm on your way into Milford Sound and take some time to kayak this majestic fiord, considered by many as the Eighth Wonder of the World (Optional Experience - own expense). Tonight stay at the magical Milford Sound Lodge, with views of the Cleddau Valley.
Your accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge
Experience the tranquility of Milford once the day visitors have left. Breakfast on the deck while keas look on.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. Board the Southern Discoveries vessel for a half day exploration of Milford Sound, often called the "eighth natural wonder of the world". Sail out to the Tasman Sea, looking for wildlife along the way, for a visit to the Underwater Observatory and the opportunity to go sea kayaking in Harrison Cove. This afternoon learn more about breathtaking Fiordland National Park with an informative talk by a local expert.
Your accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge
Experience the tranquility of Milford once the day visitors have left. Breakfast on the deck while keas look on.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the picturesque South Otago. Travel through the musical town of Gore, before arriving in Dunedin.
Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel (or similar)
Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning visit Larnach Castle, learn about its colourful history and take in the breathtaking views from the Tower including a 360° view of Dunedin, Otago Peninsula and out to the Pacific Ocean. After this wonderful tour, the day is yours to explore and discover Dunedin. Your tour director can help with any recommendations or bookings you would like to make.
Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel (or similar)
Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.Meals included: Breakfast
Travel up the East coast of the South Island returning to Christchurch for an in-depth sightseeing tour.
Your accommodation: The George Hotel (or similar)
The George is the essence of supreme comfort. The award winning 5 star hotel is opposite Hagley Park and just a few minutes stroll from the Botanic Gardens.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel along the rugged Pacific Ocean coast this morning to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Pass the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, then travel to pretty seaside fishing village of Picton. Later cross the Cook Strait to the North Island where you have a city sightseeing tour taking in New Zealand's parliament buildings, and a visit to Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Your accommodation: Sofitel Wellington
Ideally positioned in the Central Business District and government hub, Sofitel Wellington is within walking distance from the major tourist attractions, with many restaurants and cafes nearby.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
You have a day at leisure to see the sights of your choice. Perhaps take a tour of Parliament or venture to Weta Workshop, the home of the special effects wizards whose work features in many blockbuster movies. Enjoy the cafe lifestyle in the capital city or simply shop till you drop, there is something in Wellington for everyone!
Your accommodation: Sofitel Wellington
Ideally positioned in the Central Business District and government hub, Sofitel Wellington is within walking distance from the major tourist attractions, with many restaurants and cafes nearby.Meals included: Breakfast
Travel through the fertile farming land of Wairarapa on to Napier in Hawke's Bay. Enjoy time to relax after the day's adventures before joining your journey director for dinner at your hotel.
Your accommodation: Porters Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Porters Boutique Hotel offers luxury accommodation located in the heart of Havelock North village, nestled at the foot of Te Mata Peak. This is a thriving hub of cafes, restaurants, wineries and boutique shopping.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a local guide for a city tour. You'll see several types of Art Deco architecture, the style in which Napier was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. This evening, enjoy wine-tasting and dinner at one of the region's renowned wineries.
Your accommodation: Porters Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Porters Boutique Hotel offers luxury accommodation located in the heart of Havelock North village, nestled at the foot of Te Mata Peak. This is a thriving hub of cafes, restaurants, wineries and boutique shopping.Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely start to before continuing the journey to nearby Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, the only outlet of water from Lake Taupo, and then it's on to Rotorua. On arrival in Rotorua, an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Later, you'll visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Maori life and how they interact with geothermal activity. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Family Marae. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.
Your accommodation: Pullman Rotorua (or similar)
Pullman Rotorua is located in the city and only moments away from the lakefront. It is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rotorua's natural splendour is revealed in the crystal-clear mineral springs and native flora of Rainbow Springs Nature Park. You're sure to catch a glimpse of the shy, iconic national bird in the park's nocturnal kiwi enclosure, on a 'behind the scenes tour. Next up, ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird's eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants from a series of 23 suspension bridges linking the majestic trees, a completely unique perspective.
Your accommodation: Pullman Rotorua (or similar)
Pullman Rotorua is located in the city and only moments away from the lakefront. It is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions.Meals included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a dazzling show during an exclusive five-star Eco Glowworm experience. Later in Auckland, get your bearings during a city tour, then spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore.
Your accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (or similar)
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is located in the heart of Auckland on the unique and vibrant Viaduct Harbour and close to the new Wynyard Quarter.Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Starts | Status | Twin/Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | |
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Mar 8, 2021
(Monday) |
was NZD$11,685
now
NZD$11,085
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was NZD$16,110
now
NZD$15,510
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NZD$600pp
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Oct 11, 2021
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Nov 8, 2021
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Jan 31, 2022
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