17-Day New Zealand Guided Tour: Ultimate NZ

Haere Mai and welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand! Your journey begins in vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, the ‘City of Sails,’ where sparkling harbours meet ancient volcanoes. After checking in at the Nesuto Stadium Hotel, you’ll receive your welcome letter and settle in. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and expert tour guide at 6:15 pm before sharing a delicious welcome dinner together at 6:30pm. It's the perfect start to your Kiwi adventure.

• Accommodation: Oaks Auckland Hotel, Beach Road, Auckland
• Meals Included: Dinner

This morning, we leave vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland for the legendary Waitomo Glowworm Caves, once admired by Sir David Attenborough himself. Glide by boat beneath a galaxy of twinkling glowworms before exploring an ancient limestone cave, sculpted by nature over millions of years.

Our journey then takes us onward to Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal heartland. This evening, savour a delicious group dinner before settling into the comfort of your Rotorua accommodation for a well-earned rest.

• Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we journey along Lake Rotorua’s edge to a breathtaking lookout over Mount Tarawera, once home to the legendary Pink and White Terraces before the 1886 eruption changed the landscape forever. Next, explore the Buried Village, New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site, where the story of Te Wairoa’s sudden burial comes vividly to life.

In the afternoon, stroll through Whakarewarewa Forest beneath towering Redwoods, Douglas firs, and native Silver ferns. Then enjoy free time to explore Rotorua your way, from witnessing steaming mud pools at Kuirau Park and peaceful lakeside walks to unwinding at the Polynesian Spa or taking in panoramic views from the Rotorua Skyline Gondola. Your knowledgeable tour guide can assist you in adding on any local activities in Rotorua.

• Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Lake Tarawera, The Buried Village, Scenic Walk Through Whakarewarewa Forest
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we head to the tranquil shores of Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara for an authentic New Zealand experience. At Kohutapu Lodge, owned by a dedicated local Māori family, you’ll discover inspiring community driven initiatives that are transforming the region. Begin with a guided tour of the sacred Māori rock carvings before witnessing the preparation of a traditional ground cooked hangi. Then, savour what’s considered one of the finest meals in New Zealand, enjoyed lakeside at the lodge. After lunch, we travel to Taupō to marvel at the dazzling blue Huka Falls and explore this charming lakeside town.

• Accommodation: Anchorage Taupo (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Kohutapu Lodge Tribal Tour
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Hangi Lunch

After breakfast, we journey to the stunning Hawke’s Bay region, renowned for its world-class wineries. At Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery, enjoy a guided tasting followed by a leisurely lunch featuring delicious food and exceptional wines, all set against the backdrop of sun-drenched vineyards.

Later, we head to the charming coastal town of Napier, famous for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture. Spend the evening strolling the tree-lined promenade and savour fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, soaking in the relaxed coastal ambiance.

• Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Te Pania (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Mission Estate Winery
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we leave Napier and journey to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital known for its unbeatable coffee culture. En route, we stop in Greytown, Wairarapa’s oldest town, to enjoy lunch amid charming Victorian buildings and browse its quaint boutiques.

With a population under 220,000, Wellington perfectly blends a relaxed vibe with a rich, bohemian spirit. Spend your afternoon exploring at leisure. We highly recommend visiting Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, renowned for its captivating exhibits.

• Accommodation: Naumi Hotel (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Visit to Wairarapa
• Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we board the ferry to cross the stunning Cook Strait. If the skies are clear, head up on deck to soak in breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds and spot native wildlife. Upon arrival in Picton, we travel to Blenheim for lunch at a renowned vineyard, home to some of New Zealand’s finest Sauvignon Blanc. Afterwards, we continue to Nelson, where you’ll have time to unwind, explore charming surroundings, and sample the region’s celebrated local food and wine.

• Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar hotel) 
• Included Activities: Marlborough Cellar Door Lunch
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today is all yours to enjoy sunny Nelson, New Zealand’s artsy gem nestled beside the country’s premier hop-growing region. Choose a leisurely wine or beer tour by bike if you’re feeling active. Or simply explore the vibrant local galleries and shops. For nature lovers, a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park offers golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. If you’re up for a rewarding walk, hike the Track to the Centre of New Zealand, where stunning panoramic views await at the summit.

• Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Today is a free day to explore!
• Optional Activities: Abel Tasman Cruise, Wine Tour, Craft Beer Tour, Queens Gardens, Centre of NZ Scenic Walk
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we take a scenic coastal drive, soaking in breathtaking views and keeping an eye out for local marine life. From Kaikōura’s rugged coastline and majestic mountains to Canterbury’s rolling farmland, the journey is filled with stunning landscapes. We arrive in Christchurch late afternoon, where an inviting group dinner awaits at our hotel to end the day.

• Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Today is a day for taking in the scenery and stunning views!
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we continue south along the stunning east coast, stopping in Oamaru to admire some of New Zealand’s best-preserved heritage buildings. Next, explore the mystical Moeraki Boulders, ancient geological wonders shaped over 60 million years, standing like silent guardians along the shoreline. We then arrive in Dunedin with time to relax and discover the charm of this historic Scottish city.

• Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Dunedin (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Oamaru Visit, The Moeraki Boulders, Baldwin Street
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, visit Dunedin’s iconic Larnach Castle, the country’s only castle. Wander the magnificent gardens and take in stunning views before we depart for Te Anau. Along the way, we stop in Gore to explore its colourful history at the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, where you’ll uncover tales of illicit whisky distilling and sample Old Hokonui made from the original recipe. After our whiskey tasting, we travel onward to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland and the breathtaking Doubtful Sound.

• Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Larnach Castle, Hokonui Moonshine Museum
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Departing Te Anau, we journey to Manapōuri for a tranquil cruise across the lake to West Arm. From there, we travel along New Zealand’s most expensive road over Wilmot Pass, pausing to explore Fiordland’s lush rainforest and glimpse the shimmering Doubtful Sound below. At Deep Cove, we board a modern catamaran to sail into the majestic fiord, where towering mountains and breathtaking scenery will surround you. Listen to fascinating commentary and watch for local wildlife as penguins, seals, and dolphins are frequent visitors to the Sound. After this unforgettable experience, we continue to the alpine resort town of Queenstown, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

• Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Doubtful Sound Experience
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today is yours to enjoy Queenstown, the stunning alpine resort famed for its thrilling adventure activities. For excitement, take a ride on the world-famous Shotover Jet Boat or explore the historic gold mining Skippers Canyon. For breathtaking views, ascend Bob’s Peak by gondola and enjoy lunch at the Skyline restaurant. Don’t miss watching daring souls leap at the bungy centre, after all, bungy jumping was born in Queenstown, New Zealand! Prefer something more relaxed? Stroll the lakeside or unwind in Queenstown’s beautiful parks. Be sure to chat with your expert tour guide to book any optional activities and make the most of your day.

• Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Today is yours to enjoy Queenstown
• Optional Activities: There are too many to list, your experienced tour guide can assist with bookings and recommendations
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we travel through Arrowtown, a charming village rich with stories from New Zealand’s gold mining past. Next, we arrive in Wānaka, a picturesque lakeside town framed by stunning mountains, where we’ll enjoy lunch and take in the breathtaking views. From Wānaka, we journey north to Haast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for the wild Haast River. This evening, we’ll gather for a relaxing group dinner at our hotel.

• Accommodation: Heartland Haast (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Wānaka and Arrowtown Visits
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we journey north along the stunning Westland National Park to the home of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, landscapes shaped by mighty ice and framed by lush rainforest beneath towering peaks. We’ll stop in Fox Glacier with the option to stroll the gentle 2.6km Lake Matheson track, where ancient forests cradle the famous mirror-like reflections of Aoraki, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Tonight, we settle in Franz Josef township, surrounded by breathtaking rainforests and majestic mountains.

• Accommodation: Scenic Franz Josef (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Fox Glacier Visit
• Optional Activities: Walk the 2.6km track around Lake Matheson (Mirror Lake)
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we leave Franz Josef for Hokitika, an artistic town famed for its exquisite Greenstone. Visit the Greenstone and Glassblowing Factory to witness the skill of talented local artisans before continuing to Greymouth, known for its rich jade hunting and gold mining history. From Greymouth, board the iconic TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s most spectacular one day journeys, offering breathtaking views of forests, rolling plains, and snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. After arriving in Christchurch, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of an unforgettable tour.

• Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Greenstone & Glassblowing Factory, Tranz Alpine Train
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today your Ultimate New Zealand Tour comes to an end. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to your tour guide and new friends. Whether you’re heading home or extending your stay in Christchurch, we hope you leave with cherished memories and lifelong connections.

• Meals Included: Breakfast