Travelling to New Zealand? Don't worry, you won't have to choose between the two islands. With all the activities available on each island, we'll keep things exciting but also give you some space to catch your breath — you're gonna need it. Across three weeks you can hike, kayak, and cycle across this diverse land. There's also time for boat cruises and local culture, just to be sure you don't miss out on anything.
Day 1: AucklandArrive to your hotel by 3pm today to jump straight into the action with an exclusive introduction to the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team. Experience the mighty Haka and then opt to grab dinner with your group.
Day 2: Auckland/RotoruaEnjoy a morning cycle through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge, then travel on to the lakes region of Rotorua. En route to Rotorua visit Okere falls.
Day 3: RotoruaEnjoy a free morning in Rotorua, a town in a geothermal area with boiling mud and hotpools. Opt to go whitewater rafting, go hiking, or soak in some hot springs. Later in the afternoon, visit the New Zealand Arts and Crafts Institute to speak to local Maori carvers and tuck into a delicious Hangi meal cooked underground.
Day 4: Rotorua/Whanganui National ParkAdmire the scenery while heading to Whanganui National Park.
Day 5: Whanganui National ParkExperience one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” by kayak on a day trip into the heart of Whanganui National Park. Explore the Whanganui River further by jet boat, visiting old Maori and European settlements. Learn about the region's natural history, conservation efforts for indigenous wildlife (including the endangered New Zealand blue duck) and Blue Duck Station's sustainable farming practices.
Day 6: Whanganui National Park/Tongariro National ParkToday we conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek and spend time hiking an active volcano. Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery. After the trek, travel to a ski lodge on the side of a mountain for the night and opt for a hot soak to ease those tired muscles.
Day 7: Tongariro National Park/Waitomo DistrictTravel north to the small town of Waitomo, located near an extensive underground cave system. Enjoy a free afternoon, and opt to tour the caves by foot or with a bit of adrenaline by rappelling into them. Settle into your accommodation close by, and enjoy a final dinner together to say farewell to those finishing their tour in Auckland tomorrow.
Day 8: Waitomo to Christchurch via Auckland.After an early start, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and take a boat ride through this spectacular underground realm to see thousands of flickering glowworms light up in the dark. Travel north to Auckland and hop on a flight to the South Island. Meet the new members of the group and then explore Christchurch.
Day 9: Christchurch/KaikouraTransfer north, along the scenic coastal road up to Kaikoura. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area or take in an optional activity.
Day 10: Kaikoura to Abel TasmanTake in the scenery of the South Island while travelling to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Sample some local produce and wine as you travel through the renowned Marlborough wine region. Enjoy free time to explore upon arrival.
Day 11: Abel Tasman National Park/MarahauExperience the stunning natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by boat, sea kayak and on foot. After a full day of exploring, reward your efforts with a well earned meal at one of Marahau local eateries.
Day 12: Marahau/Lake BrunnerEnjoy the scenery of the mountainous coastal Westland region, and stop en route to see the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.
Day 13: Lake Brunner/Franz JosefTransfer to Franz Josef, stopping for a walk at the wildlife mecca of Okarito Lagoon en route. Enjoy free time for optional activities such as hiking and checking out the stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Day 14: Franz JosefA free day for optional activities. Options include a helicopter hike, a glacier valley walk, kayaking as well as the unique and stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
Day 15: Franz Josef/WanakaTransfer to Wanaka, where there are a variety of optional activities available. Opt to hiking or check out the giant maze and optical illusions of Puzzling World.
Day 16: Wanaka/QueenstownDrive the winding route between Wanaka and Queenstown passing through picturesque wine country and the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River. Watch as the scenery shifts from vast open valleys to the hustle and bustle of the city, and get ready to enjoy a free afternoon in the "adventure capital of the world."
Day 17: QueenstownEnjoy a full-day hiking excursion along the world renowned Routeburn Track, taking in the gorgeous mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes surrounding the track.
Day 18: QueenstownTravel to the fjords of the South Island. Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound from the deck of a boat, then return to Queenstown for the night.
Day 19: Queenstown/TwizelEnjoy free time in Queenstown, before travelling on to the Aoraki/Mt Cook region.
Day 20: TwizelPrepare for an action packed day! Start on two-wheels on a mountain biking excursion around the Aoraki/Mt Cook region. In the afternoon, discover stunning landscapes on foot.
Day 21: Twizel/ChristchurchTravel back to Christchurch. Head out for an orientation drive with your CEO before enjoying a few hours to explore the city.
Day 22: ChristchurchDepart at any time.
