Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in
This morning begins with a welcome briefing to meet fellow passengers and your Tour Director. Then, enjoy a sightseeing tour, discovering firsthand why Auckland is regarded as one of the best places in the world to live. See the Domain, the city’s oldest park, developed around an extinct volcano. Highlights also include charming Parnell Village, bustling Queens Street, and the Viaduct Harbour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Leave Auckland this morning and journey through lush farmland to Rotorua, home to New Zealand’s Máori culture and geothermal wonders. Your first stop is Te Puia where a guided tour takes you to see bubbling mud, pools of boiling water, and the famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. You’ll also have a chance to witness traditional Máori carving and weaving along with a Máori cultural performance. Then, visit Agrodome to learn more about one of the country’s major industries--sheep! This evening is at leisure. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Today is free to explore more of Rotorua. You may wish to take an optional excursion to visit magical Hobbiton, the set used as the Shire in the movie trilogies, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Other options include a zipline and canopy tour, helicopter and floatplane flights over the volcanic valley, or a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring at the Polynesian Spa. Hang out with an optional Hangi dinner with a side of authentic cultural performances in the indigenous Polynesian tradition. Indulge in an evening of singing, storytelling, and sizzling meats and veggies prepared on underground hot stones in true Máori fashion. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Today, continue your journey on the North Island traveling past Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stop in the historic town of Marton to visit a local farm for lunch. During your time here, take a tour of the farm and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy. Continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city known for its vibrant art scene, world-class restaurant culture, and active outdoor lifestyle. (B,L)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, a sightseeing tour includes the famous Beehive and Parliament building, and panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Today, sail from Wellington to Picton and enjoy the spectacular Marlborough Sound on one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Make sure to have your camera ready as dolphins are frequent traveling companions of the ferry. On occasion, you might even spot a pod of whales or some penguins swimming by. Continue to Christchurch, the largest city on the South IsIand. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Your journey continues across New Zealand’s South Island today. This is the land of towering mountains, rugged coastlines, and sweeping plains. Stop at beautiful Lake Tekapo for a visit to the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd. Later, arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital,” for a 3-night stay. (B)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Today, enjoy a full-day excursion to breathtaking Milford Sound. Cruise to see cascading waterfalls, sheer cliff walls, tropical rainforest, wildlife including seals and dolphins, and fantastic scenery. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip! Return to Queenstown late this evening. (B,L)
NOTE:
The excursion to Milford Sound may occur on Day 10, based on weather and road conditions
Includes meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
A full free day to explore on your own. It’s full steam ahead with an optional ride on the historic TSS Earnslaw Steamship to Walter Peak Farm for a delicious lunch or dinner. Browse your favorite boutique or art gallery or take a heady helicopter ride over the Remarkables Mountains. Tonight, join your Tour Director and travel companions on the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll enjoy a festive farewell dinner with breathtaking views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu below. (B,D)
Includes meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
