Fabulous New Zealand

Nau Mai Haere Mai Ki Aotearoa! Welcome to New Zealand! As you step onto the land of the Long White Cloud, your private transfer driver awaits to guide you to your Stay (accommodation). Auckland, a city where urban allure meets natural splendor and affectionately known as the “City of Sails,” beckons with its tranquil harbors and bustling streets. Take this day to wander along the waterfront and explore.

Note: Check-in time at Stays in New Zealand is typically 3 PM. To help you start your journey in comfort and relaxation, your room is available for guaranteed early check-in on arrival.

Hop on a ferry from Auckland to the lush haven of Waiheke Island. Here, your island exploration guide awaits you with a captivating array of walking tour themes. You’ll have the opportunity to spend approximately 5 hours on a private guided walk of your choosing, ranging from secluded trails to coastal marvels to Art trail or even vineyard walks.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature and uncover the island’s distinctive ecology and mesmerizing wildlife. For the Wilderness Walk, you have more than one option to choose from. To personalize your experience, please select your preferred option before you arrive in New Zealand. We will provide you with all the options once you have booked the main tour.

After your exhilarating Waiheke trek, return to Auckland on the late afternoon ferry.

Immerse yourself in a private and exclusive guided experience of Spellbound Cave & Cave of the Spirit. The cave systems are a national treasure of New Zealand. The Spellbound Cave is home to a unique species of glowworms found only in New Zealand, while the Cave of the Spirit is a cave system that is like an old-time vault, which has trapped and hidden away bones of ancient animals that once roamed around Waitomo.

After your subterranean adventure, head out to Rotorua, where you’ll check into your Stay. As twilight descends, prepare for a magical evening amidst the towering Redwoods.

The Redwoods Nightwalk is a design-led experience that transforms the forest into an enchanted realm. Suspended walkways adorned with lanterns and mesmerizing light installations guide you through the ancient giants, offering a surreal and breathtaking perspective of the nocturnal forest.

Note: Your dedicated driver/guide will accompany you from today until you’re dropped off at Rotorua oAirport for your flight to Queenstown, four days later.

Today, your adventure continues as you step into the heart of Rotorua’s geothermal wonderland.

In the morning immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Rotorua. Choose between Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or Waimangu Volcanic Valley, two remarkable experiences, both of which are self-guided exploration. Both offer a unique glimpse into New Zealand’s geothermal landscapes. Please note that the morning experiences are included, and you need to choose one of them.

Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, sculpted by volcanic activity over thousands of years, boasts vibrant colors and diverse geothermal features spread across 18 square kilometers/7 square miles. Explore this fascinating landscape at your own pace and uncover the hidden wonders lying beneath the surface.

Alternatively, embark on the Waimangu Volcanic Valley adventure, where you’ll traverse trails that showcase volcanic craters, hot springs, and unique wildlife. Conclude your exploration with a relaxing 45-minute cruise on Lake Rotomahana, encountering stunning geothermal activity and rare native birdlife along the way.

In the evening, prepare for an enchanting cultural experience with a visit to Te Pa Tu. You will be collected from your STAY and treated to a wonderful Maori Fusion Dinner as part of this experience. Immerse yourself in traditional Māori cultural performances while gaining insight into the rich heritage and customs of the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Please note that Te Pa Tu is approximately 4 hours long from the time of pick-up to drop-off back to your Stay.

Today, embark on an exhilarating journey through New Zealand’s lush forests with the country’s #1 rated nature activity. The Canopy Zipline tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you breathless.

Dive deep into the heart of an ancient forest, where excitement awaits at every turn. Race your companion down expansive ziplines, admire the verdant canopy from your perch on a thousand-year-old tree, and feel the rush as you traverse a volcanic walkway. This thrilling experience offers a unique perspective of New Zealand’s rich ecosystem, allowing you to connect with nature in ways you never imagined possible.

As the day winds down, transition from adrenaline to tranquility with a visit to the Polynesian Spa. Here, you’ll indulge in the exclusive lake view pool experience. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of a private pool overlooking the serene Lake Rotorua. The mineral-rich geothermal waters, sourced from natural springs, offer a soothing end to your adventurous day.

Let the warm waters melt away any tension as you gaze out over the picturesque lake, reflecting on the day’s thrilling experiences and the natural wonders of Rotorua.

This perfect blend of adventure and relaxation encapsulates the essence of your time in Rotorua.

Bid farewell to the North Island as you fly to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Your private driver will escort you to your Stay in this picturesque lakeside town.

After settling in, explore Queenstown’s vibrant center. Stroll along Lake Wakatipu’s shores, where crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains. Soak in the unique blend of adventure and natural beauty that defines this alpine paradise. As evening falls, choose from a diverse array of dining options.

Before dinner, consider savoring a Central Otago Pinot Noir at a lakeside bar, toasting to your South Island adventure as alpenglow paints the Remarkables in warm hues.

Note:During your stay in Queenstown, private driver/guide services are not included as they are generally not required for this vibrant, easily navigable town. Should you wish to organize guided tours or private transport on any day, our team is happy to assist with arrangements. To ensure availability and seamless planning, please let us know at least 60 days before your arrival in New Zealand.

Today, Queenstown is your playground. With no set itinerary, you’re free to explore this adventure capital at your own pace. While no private driver/guide service is scheduled for today, our team is available to offer recommendations and assistance if needed.

Consider indulging in a private wine tour through the renowned Central Otago region, savoring world-class Pinot Noir amidst breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking adventure, a guided tour of the area’s stunning scenery might be just the ticket, offering hidden gems off the beaten path.

Alternatively, lose yourself in Queenstown’s charm: stroll along the lakefront, ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, or simply unwind in a lakeside café. The day is yours to craft as you please, embracing the freedom to discover Queenstown’s treasures at your leisure.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey as you leave this morning to Lake Manapouri. You are going on a wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound, among the top 3 Fjords in the world and probably the quietest in the world.

Doubtful Sound is a magical fiord that is awe-inspiring with its stunning scenery and untouched appeal. Your immersive experience begins with a cruise over a picturesque lake, followed by a trip across New Zealand’s most expensive road over Wilmot Pass, to reach Doubtful Sound.

Be prepared for wildlife encounters with dolphins, fur seals and perhaps the rare Fiordland crested penguin. A packed picnic lunch will be served as you board the first boat at Lake Manapouri.

Note: You will be picked up and dropped off by our cruise partner in their purpose-built coach. This is a full-day experience, typically lasting from about 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Today, journey deep into the heart of world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park. Here, the intertwining threads of myth, heritage and fantasy come to life.

Your adventure unfolds along the braided, glacier-fed Dart River, where a powerful jet boat awaits to carry you deeper into this pristine wilderness.

Experience the unique combination of breathtaking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you go deep into Mount Aspiring National Park. Your private driver will take you to Glenorchy and return you after your experience.

Note: This experience typically lasts about 4.5 hours from Queenstown. You have the option of choosing either the morning or afternoon experience at the time of booking.

This morning, embark on a breathtaking private journey from Queenstown to Glacier Country. This road trip is as much about the journey as the destination.

Wind your way past crystal-clear lakes and through rugged landscapes before ascending the dramatic Haast Pass. Travel through Mount Aspiring National Park, where towering peaks and native forests create a stunning backdrop. Continue along the wild West Coast, where the Tasman Sea crashes against rugged shores on one side and dense rainforests rise on the other.

Franz Josef, the gateway to Glacier Country, is one of the most unique glacial environments in the world. Here, ancient rivers of ice descend from the Southern Alps to lush, temperate rainforests just 300 meters above sea level.

This rare juxtaposition of ice and greenery creates a landscape of stark contrasts and otherworldly beauty. The glacier’s rapid movement and retreat have carved a dynamic, ever-changing terrain, offering visitors a glimpse into the raw power of nature and the effects of climate change in real-time.

Note: Your dedicated driver/guide will accompany you from today until you’re dropped off at Christchurch Airport on departure day, five days later.

Today offers a choice between two extraordinary experiences, each showcasing the unique natural wonders of the region:

Option 1: Okarito Wetlands Kayak Adventure
Embark on an exclusive 2.5-hour journey through New Zealand’s largest unspoiled coastal wetland. Glide through serene waterways and pristine rainforests in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Your expert guide leads you through secluded creeks and open waters, accessible only by kayak. Marvel at uninterrupted views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mt. Cook while observing native birdlife in their natural habitat

Option 2: Fox Glacier Nature Tour
This 3.5-hour eco-tour takes you through the lush, historic glaciated rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Walk an easy 4-mile (6.4 km) trail, encountering massive rata and rimu trees, and moss-covered landscapes. Enjoy views of upper Fox Glacier, the Fox neve, and Mt Tasman. Learn about glaciation, geology, flora, fauna, and local history

Both tours are private and exclusive, offering intimate experiences with local hosts in untouched wilderness settings. For those wishing to fully immerse themselves in the region’s diverse landscapes, both tours can be arranged for an additional charge.

Note: Your choice must be made at least 60 days prior to arrival to ensure availability.

Today, you’ll be privately transferred to Greymouth to board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Christchurch. This journey is celebrated for its breathtaking views as you glide through the heart of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. Be prepared to be captivated by a living, ever-changing postcard of lush forests, dramatic gorges, and majestic peaks, showcasing the very essence of New Zealand’s natural splendor.

You’ll experience this journey in the Scenic Plus carriage, a purpose-built premium space designed to enhance every aspect of your trip. This refined rail experience offers expansive panoramic windows and thoughtful details that connect you deeply with New Zealand’s landscapes and stories.

Throughout the journey, enjoy a full-service experience including drinks, snacks, and a meal. The menu is inspired by and sourced from the regions you’ll pass through, providing a culinary experience that complements the stunning views outside.

On reaching Christchurch, a private transfer ensures a seamless transition to your Stay.

This morning, you’ll embark on a private tour that showcases the diverse beauty of the Christchurch region, including the stunning Bank’s Peninsula. Your journey takes you through the charming suburbs of Sumner and Lyttelton Harbour, offering glimpses of urban life and coastal scenery.

Akaroa is a picturesque former French settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano. Here, immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and unique charm. Visit the historic Onuku Church, a testament to the area’s cultural heritage. Take a leisurely walk to the lighthouse, where panoramic views of the harbor await. Explore the local museum to delve deeper into Akaroa’s fascinating past.

For lunch, indulge in the culinary delights of one of Akaroa’s quaint and chic restaurants. Savor local flavors while soaking in the town’s relaxed atmosphere.

Return to Christchurch in the evening.

As the curtain falls on your Fabulous New Zealand  journey, it’s time for you to head to the airport.

This morning, you’ll be privately transferred to Christchurch airport for your flight back home.

We trust that the tapestry of experiences we’ve woven has left you with lasting memories.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home.