New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure

Tour begins 4:30 PM. A transfer is included from Christchurch Airport to your hotel, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, located in the heart of the city. Tonight, join us for an exclusive welcome reception and dinner in the historic Riccarton House – a grand, restored 19th-century homestead.

Begin the day with a visit to Quake City, a museum that documents the disastrous earthquakes that struck Christchurch and the surrounding Canterbury region in September 2010 and February 2011; exhibits tell of heroism and loss, the science behind earthquakes, the efforts of emergency workers and volunteers who pitched in to help, and recovery projects still going on. Leave the museum and go punting on the River Avon; punting is among the city's English traditions, like cricket, rugby, gardening, and afternoon tea, and today a punter in Edwardian outfit will pole your flat-bottomed boat along the idyllic Avon from the boatsheds to the Botanical Gardens.  Following lunch at a local restaurant, peruse the park, then take your choice of afternoon adventures. Take a walking tour of the city's amazing street art with an art historian; or explore Hagley Park and the riverside on a bicycle* (manual or electric, as you prefer). Spend the rest of the day and evening as you please.

Set off by charter flight this morning to Queenstown, with a wine tasting and lunch prior to arriving at your acclaimed hotel on Lake Wakatipu, ringed by glacier-carved alpine mountains.

Head to Glenorchy at the north end of Lake Wakatipu for an exhilarating jet boat ride* through Mt. Aspiring National Park along the Dart River; the park's strikingly diverse landscapes of alpine mountains, forests and valleys are laced with braided rivers and easy hiking trails where local guides will introduce you to the area's rich history and Maori legends. Return by helicopter* back to Queenstown where the rest of the day and evening are yours.

You have a choice of three excursions from Queenstown today: Head out on a 4WD adventure safari that travels a historic gold mining road along the Arrow River, stop for morning tea and an opportunity to try your hand at panning for gold. Alternatively, you can take a scenic flight over Milford Sound, with impressive aerial views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and waterfalls – or embark on a "helicopter gin tour" (the world's first) that transports you, via helicopter, to a mountaintop gin tasting that's followed by a land journey with additional stops for gin (and other spirits) tastings. Everyone enjoys an evening that's free to spend as you please.

Fly to Blenheim in the Marlborough region by private charter, then head to a working sheep farm for a sheepdog and sheep-shearing demonstrations followed by lunch at Wither Hills winery, a perfect place to discover, taste and enjoy New Zealand's lovely wines. After checking into your hotel in Blenheim, enjoy dinner tonight at the acclaimed Harvest Restaurant, whose mission is simple: celebrating authentic hospitality. Utilizing local produce and sustainable practices, your meal here is sure to be one for the ages. 

Sail along the enchanting Marlborough Sounds, a vast network of sunken valleys, islands, secluded bays, and fjord-like vistas at the northern tip of South Island, on a private wine and green-lipped mussel cruise that includes lunch; the sheltered waters are home to dolphins, seals, gannets, and occasionally orcas. Return to the hotel for free time on your own. Dinner is at your leisure at the hotel in Blenheim this evening.

Start your day with a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, a museum presenting an astonishing array of vintage aircraft from the world wars, including many World War I planes from filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson's personal collection; not merely displayed, the aircraft are featured in vivid dramatic scenes and settings designed by Jackson's film studios to show them in action. Fly to Rotorua; lunch at Stratosfare is memorable – you'll arrive at the restaurant after ascending Mt. Ngongotaha by the Skyline Gondola; the views are outstanding. Arrive mid-afternoon at your Rotorua hotel; have dinner; then join us for the amazing Redwoods Nightlights experience. It's one is one of New Zealand's top design led tourism experiences that features 34 exquisite lanterns designed by world-renowned designer and sustainability champion David Trubridge. Floating above the forest floor, this award-winning, eco-tourism walk 700 meters (about a half mile) long, spans across 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms and takes about 40 minutes to complete.

Today, discover New Zealand's geothermal wonderland. First up is a visit to Te Puia for excellent viewing of the area's geothermal attractions – including the spectacular Pohutu (Big Splash) geyser – and an opportunity to learn about Maori culture and arts and crafts. National schools teaching the Maori crafts of woodcarving, weaving, and stone and bone carving are all represented at Te Puia, and there is also a conservation centre helping to protect New Zealand's avian icon, the kiwi. You have a choice this afternoon of activity. take the Rotorua Canopy Tour – a forested network of swing bridges, platforms, and zip lines – all 22 meters high in the forest and often soundtracked by native birdlife – you'll journey deep into the ancient native forest to complete 6 zip lines and 2 swing bridges. Alternatively, visit Wai Ariki Hot Springs – grounded in te ao Maori principles and Ngati Whakaue culture, traditional healing practices, and manaakitanga, you'll follow a pathway of unforgettable spa experiences that move you from heat to cool, mud to water, air to steam to maximize the therapeutic benefits. Dinner is as you please this evening.

Depart Rotorua this morning for the amazing Waitomo Caves – a journey into a magical underground world where thousands of glowworms illuminate ancient limestone caverns. As you glide quietly along an underground river, the glowing canopy above feels like a galaxy of stars, creating an awe-inspiring experience. You'll embark on a guided tour through narrow passageways and stunning chambers, marveling at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight of the experience is a float trip through the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms create a mesmerizing, starry spectacle above.The glowworms in Waitomo Caves are bioluminescent larvae of a unique species native to New Zealand. Their glow is created by a chemical reaction in their bodies, which they use to lure prey into their delicate, silk-like threads. The result is a stunning, natural light show that fills the dark caverns with an ethereal, blue-green glow, making the experience feel otherworldly. This natural wonder not only offers breathtaking beauty but also deep respect for the delicate ecosystem that supports it. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the caves sustainably, ensuring minimal impact on the fragile environment. The unique blend of adventure, natural history, and wonder makes Waitomo Caves unforgettable, offering a profound connection to the earth and a reminder of the importance of preserving such awe-inspiring places for future generations. Travel to Auckland for your final three nights in New Zealand.

Today, you'll have a choice of sightseeing with two excursions to select from. Travel along the Matakana Coast with stunning scenery, fresh air, great locally produced food and wine, creativity, and an opportunity to "go local." Visit the Shuckle Ferry Oyster Farm for a boat ride and a lesson in local history with a chance to learn – hands-on – about the story of the life cycle of the oyster. Adjacent to the farm, the sculpture trail winds through natural landscapes, showcasing an array of thought-provoking, contemporary sculptures; each piece is artfully integrated into the surroundings, creating a harmonious blend of nature and creativity. As you wander the trail, the sculptures encourage reflection on the environment and the human connection to the land, enriching the experience of your visit to this unique destination. Alternatively, a full day tour of the city and west coast offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and natural beauty. Journey through Auckland's vibrant cityscape, home to iconic landmarks such as the Sky Tower, Auckland Domain, and charming waterfront districts. You'll delve into the city's rich history and culture, seeing key neighborhoods and enjoying panoramic views of the sprawling harbor. Your adventure continues as you explore Auckland's dramatic West Coast, home to rugged black sand beaches, wild surf, and lush rainforests – the breathtaking scenery highlights Auckland's diverse landscapes, seamlessly combining the energy of the city with the serene beauty of New Zealand's wild coast. Both excursions return to Auckland mid- to late-afternoon. 

Today you'll learn about the significance of rugby in New Zealand with a visit to the All Blacks, the New Zealand national rugby union team. Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 45 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka; you can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in the hands-on, interactive zone. The remainder of the day is free to explore as you choose before joining us this evening for our farewell reception and dinner.

Tour ends: Auckland. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Park Hyatt Auckland to Auckland Airport. Allow three hours for flight check-in.