New Zealand's Ultimate South to North Island Adventure

Within walking distance from the hotel, you will meet the group to discover why Queenstown captivates travellers from around the world on this perfectly curated full-day tour that combines the region's most spectacular viewpoints, charming historic settlements and world-renowned wine culture. Your premium vehicle journey begins at an incredible observation point high above Lake Wakatipu, where arguably the best panoramic views in Queenstown unfold before you, showcasing the pristine lake stretching toward the dramatic Remarkables mountain range.

The adventure continues to Arthurs Point and the historic Shotover River, rich with gold mining heritage and home to some of the world's most exciting jet boat rides. Your exploration then leads to the enchanting township of Arrowtown, where time seems to have stood still among restored gold rush buildings and autumn-golden trees. With 45 minutes to explore, you can try your hand at gold panning, browse unique boutiques or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this perfectly preserved piece of New Zealand history.

Your day concludes in the renowned Gibbston Valley wine region, where you'll visit the world's first commercial bungy jump site before settling into a beautiful winery setting for wine tasting and a gourmet cheeseboard. The perfect finale to your Queenstown discovery is a scenic 30-minute cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu, a fitting conclusion to your adventurous day.

Join the group to embark on one of the world's most spectacular day trips as you journey to Milford Sound, often called the eighth wonder of the world, in the comfort of a premium Mercedes touring van with just 15 guests for an intimate experience. Your early morning departure leads through picturesque Southland farming country to the charming lakeside town of Te Anau, where you'll pause for refreshments while preparing for entry into the UNESCO World Heritage Fiordland National Park.

The renowned Milford Road reveals its treasures gradually as your expert guide makes multiple stops for photographs and short walks among incredible granite mountains, glacier-fed rivers and ancient rainforest where the cheeky Kea parrot might make an appearance. Each turn in the road unveils new vistas more spectacular than the last, while your guide entertains with fascinating local stories and insights that bring this pristine wilderness to life.

Upon reaching Milford Sound itself, you'll embark on a nature cruise beneath towering peaks that rise vertically from the dark waters, exploring hidden waterfalls and searching for sea life and native birdlife with the guidance of an expert onboard naturalist. The return journey allows time to reflect on this extraordinary wilderness experience, with the option to upgrade to a spectacular scenic flight over the Southern Alps back to Queenstown for the ultimate wrap-up to your Fiordland adventure.

Pack your bags and get ready to experience one of the world's most scenic road journeys as you travel from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mount Cook, combining two of New Zealand's most stunning destinations in one unforgettable day. Your small-group tour through the heart of the South Island begins with the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and its famous suspension bridge, before entering the fruit and wine-growing region of Cromwell with its endless vineyards and the striking waters of Lake Dunstan.

The journey reaches new heights at Lindis Pass, one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, where you'll pause at 971 metres above sea level for breathtaking valley views. Continuing through the endless golden plains of the Mackenzie District, where you'll spot celebrated Merino sheep before the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki emerge, framed dramatically by Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps in a vista so spectacular it served as inspiration for renowned filmmakers.

At Mount Cook National Park, you'll have 2.5 to 3 hours of free time to explore walking tracks, visit the Visitor Centre or take optional scenic flights with glacier landings while surrounded by New Zealand's highest peaks. Your day concludes with a visit to the world-famous Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo, where the turquoise lake and mountain backdrop create one of the most photographed scenes in New Zealand, before arriving in Christchurch for your 3-night stay.

Discover the resilient charm of Christchurch, the Garden City, through three unique perspectives that showcase both its natural beauty and innovative spirit: Your Christchurch Pass. This pass includes the tram with 18 central stops around the city and allows you to experience the city's most beloved attractions, beginning with the spectacular Christchurch Gondola that carries you high above the city for stunning panoramic views across the Canterbury Plains to the distant Southern Alps, where walking tracks and a discovery ride reveal the region's fascinating geological story.

Experience the tranquil beauty of the city's heart with a peaceful 30-minute punt ride along the meandering Avon River, where your traditionally dressed punter guides you past the magnificent Botanic Gardens and through parklands that have been the city's green lungs for over 150 years. This serene journey offers a completely different perspective of Christchurch, revealing hidden corners and peaceful waterways that showcase why this city has always been known for its English garden character.

Complete your Christchurch exploration aboard the heritage tram system, where restored tramcars from a bygone era carry you to key central city sites while providing entertaining commentary about the city's reconstruction and renaissance following the earthquakes. Your Hop-On, Hop-Off pass allows you to explore at your own pace, discovering the innovative architecture, vibrant street art and bustling markets that define modern Christchurch's creative spirit.       

Meet your group and journey to the spectacular coastal town of Kaikoura for one of New Zealand's most extraordinary wildlife experiences, where a unique underwater canyon system brings deep-sea giants close to shore year-round. Your whale-watching adventure aboard a modern catamaran offers a truly unforgettable experience.

The 2.5-hour cruise combines education with adventure as expert guides share fascinating insights during the "World of Whales" presentation before taking you to where sperm whales, orcas and other marine giants feed in the nutrient-rich waters. The modern vessel features air-conditioned cabins for comfort and expansive outdoor decks for optimal viewing, while the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains meeting the Pacific Ocean creates an unforgettable setting for your wildlife sightings.

Make your way to the meeting location, close to your hotel and trade the South Island's dramatic landscapes for the North Island's volcanic playground as you enjoy a seamless transition from Christchurch to Rotorua, New Zealand's Geothermal and Māori heartland. Your shared shuttle transfer to Christchurch airport ensures a stress-free departure before the swift and scenic flight reveals the rugged coastlines and rolling hills that characterize the lower North Island, building anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Upon touching down in Rotorua, your private transfer will take you to your comfortable accommodation at Jet Park Hotel, where you will check in for 3 nights, providing the perfect base for exploring this unique region where the earth's volcanic forces create an otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud pools, steaming lakes and colourful mineral terraces.

Your transportation will meet you in the lobby to whisk you off to experience a full-day adventure that perfectly captures Rotorua's dual personality, as both a place of ancient spiritual significance and modern adventure tourism. Your day begins with a fully guided ascent of Mount Tarawera, the dramatic volcanic peak that forever changed the region's landscape during its catastrophic 1886 eruption, where you'll explore the spectacular crater and witness breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that stretch across the entire Bay of Plenty region.

Your knowledgeable guide will bring the mountain's fascinating history to life, sharing tales of the cultural and spiritual significance this sacred peak holds for local Māori iwi, while the dramatic volcanic landscape provides a powerful reminder of the raw forces that continue to shape New Zealand's North Island. The peaceful crater walk offers time for reflection and photography as you stand on the edge of this geological marvel, understanding how the eruption that destroyed the famous Pink and White Terraces also created new opportunities for the region's geothermal tourism industry.

In the afternoon, tranquillity will transform into pure adrenaline as you join the expert team at Kaitiaki Adventures for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience on the mighty Kaituna River. Navigate 14 heart-pounding rapids, including the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall, where you'll plunge over a spectacular seven-meter drop while surrounded by native forest and pristine wilderness, all under the expert guidance of world-class rafting professionals using top-of-the-line safety equipment and techniques.

Immerse yourself in the living culture of New Zealand's indigenous Māori people at Te Puia, where traditions blend seamlessly with spectacular geothermal activity in the heart of an active volcanic valley. Experience a traditional welcome ceremony before exploring the steaming landscape where geysers shoot skyward and colourful mineral pools bubble with earth's ancient energy.

The cultural highlight of your day is the powerful haka performance and traditional hangi feast, where food is cooked slowly underground using natural geothermal heat in a method unchanged for centuries. As you savour this unique culinary experience, passionate cultural ambassadors share stories of Māori traditions, spiritual beliefs and the deep connection between the indigenous people and this sacred geothermal landscape.

As evening approaches, prepare for one of New Zealand's most enchanting experiences at the Redwoods Nightlights, where 34 exquisite lanterns designed by world-renowned artist David Trubridge float magically between 9 and 20 metres above the forest floor. This award-winning walk spans 700 metres across 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms, creating an ethereal journey through one of the world's most beautifully planted forests.

Prepare for nearly 4 hours of pure aerial excitement as you embark on Rotorua's most thrilling forest adventure, where ziplines, suspension bridges and elevated walkways combine to create an unforgettable journey through one of New Zealand's most spectacular forest environments. The shuttle pickup from the hotel leads to a world where ancient trees become your playground, and where the forest canopy reveals secrets and perspectives that remain hidden from ground-level explorers.

Feel your heart race as you zip along the longest course in the region, soaring between platforms while admiring the lush canopy from unique vantage points perched high among thousand-year-old forest giants that have witnessed centuries of New Zealand history. The adventure reaches new heights as you traverse dramatic volcanic walkways that showcase the raw geological forces still shaping this remarkable landscape, while suspension bridges provide thrilling crossings above the forest floor where native birds call and ancient ferns carpet the wilderness below.

This ultimate canopy experience pushes personal boundaries while fostering a deep connection with the wild natural environment that makes Rotorua such a special destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Every platform offers new perspectives and photo opportunities, while the expert guides ensure both safety and maximum excitement throughout this aerial odyssey that will leave you returning to Rotorua still buzzing with adrenaline and unforgettable memories of flying through the forest like a native bird.

Embark on a magical journey from Rotorua to Auckland with an unforgettable stop in the Shire, where the rolling green hills of the Waikato countryside transformed into Middle-earth for Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies.

Meet your group in the lobby, which takes you deep into the heart of the 12-acre Hobbiton Movie Set, where 44 hobbit holes remain exactly as they appeared in the films, complete with gardens, fences and the famous Party Tree.

Your expert guide brings the movie magic to life as you explore this perfectly preserved film set, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and filmmaking secrets while you wander past Bag End, the Mill and the double-arched bridge. The tour concludes at the Green Dragon Inn, where you can raise a glass of specially brewed beverages while overlooking the tranquil lake and rolling hills that convinced Peter Jackson this was the perfect location for the Shire. 

Continuing to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and economic heart, you'll settle into your comfortable 3-star accommodation like the Chancellor on Hobson for two nights. Auckland's sophisticated urban energy provides a striking contrast to the rural magic of Hobbiton, with its gleaming harbour, cosmopolitan dining scene and unique position straddling two harbours making it one of New Zealand's most vibrant cities.

Make your way to the Ferry Terminal to meet the group and escape to the sophisticated paradise of Waiheke Island, where world-class wineries nestle among rolling hills and pristine beaches create the perfect backdrop for one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine regions. Your ferry journey across Auckland's sparkling Waitemata Harbour builds anticipation as the island's vine-covered slopes and secluded bays come into view, promising a day of exceptional wines, gourmet cuisine and breathtaking coastal scenery that embodies the very best of New Zealand's island lifestyle.

Your expertly guided tour begins at Cable Bay Vineyards, where award-winning wines from both Waiheke Island and Marlborough showcase the diverse terroir that makes New Zealand viticulture so exciting, followed by a memorable lunch at the acclaimed 372 restaurant overlooking magnificent Onetangi Beach. This Cuisine Good Food Awards hat recipient creates the perfect setting to savour exceptional local cuisine paired with premium wines, while panoramic ocean views remind you why Waiheke is considered one of the world's most beautiful wine destinations.  

The afternoon continues your viticultural journey at Te Motu, where award-winning red wines are tasted in a rustic-modern atmosphere surrounded by the very vines that produce them, before concluding at historic Stonyridge Vineyard, nestled in a valley fragrant with olive trees and Mediterranean aromas. Throughout the day, your passionate local guides share insider knowledge about the island's unique culture, fascinating history, and the pioneering spirit that transformed this former farming community into an internationally recognized wine region that attracts connoisseurs from around the globe.

Discover Auckland's unique volcanic landscape and stunning harbour views on this comprehensive 3-hour city tour that reveals why New Zealand's largest metropolis is known as the “City of Sails”. Your exploration begins in the waterfront suburb of Mission Bay, where the scenic Tamaki Drive offers unobstructed views of the iconic Rangitoto Island, the region's most recent and largest volcano that rises dramatically from the Hauraki Gulf like a green pyramid emerging from azure waters.

The journey continues to MJ Savage Memorial Park at Bastion Point, where panoramic vistas encompass the magnificent Harbour Bridge, the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and the entire Auckland city skyline spread out like a glittering amphitheatre around one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours. Your next stop at Achilles Point provides the perfect opportunity to capture spectacular photographs with Rangitoto Island as your dramatic backdrop, while learning about the geological forces that created this fascinating volcanic field over thousands of years.

The tour reaches its scenic climax at One Tree Hill and Mount Eden, two of Auckland's most prominent volcanic cones that offer breathtaking 360-degree views across the sprawling city, harbours and gulf islands that make this urban landscape so extraordinary. These elevated vantage points reveal Auckland's unique position straddling two harbours, while your guide shares fascinating stories about Māori history, European settlement and the modern multicultural society that makes Auckland one of the Pacific's most vibrant cities, leaving your afternoon free to explore world-class museums, innovative workshops or the iconic Sky Tower.

Your extraordinary New Zealand adventure concludes with a seamless private transfer to Auckland International Airport, where your dedicated driver ensures a stress-free departure that allows you to savour your final moments in this remarkable country.

As familiar landscapes pass by the window one last time, you'll have the perfect opportunity to reflect on 3 weeks of incredible experiences, from the adrenaline-pumping adventures of Queenstown to the cultural immersion in Rotorua, the wildlife encounters of Kaikoura and the sophisticated pleasures of Waiheke Island.