Best of New Zealand Tour

Day two starts with a drive to the fantastic Coromandel Peninsula. If the tide is right, you’ll get a chance to dig a natural Jacuzzi in the sand at Hot Water Beach. Take a walk to Cathedral Cove or opt to try sea kayaking.

Today we’ll visit a geothermal area in Rotorua to see the boiling mud pools. You can opt to go on a white-water rafting adventure before enjoying a cultural overnight featuring a traditional dinner and show. Tonight, we stay in a traditional Maori Village.

ACCOMODATION

Maori Village

Start early and enjoy the walks of National Park. If the conditions are right, hike the famous Tongariro Crossing (seasonal). Alternatively, choose to enjoy some shorter walks on an active volcano.

SIGHTS

Tongariro Crossing

Free morning in the National Park before you hop the train for a scenic journey to Wellington – the Coolest Capital City in the World. Spend the afternoon enjoying this relaxed but lively city

It’s off across the Cook Strait today to the South Island. Travel the Coastal Railway from Picton down to the seaside town of Kaikoura, known for its volcanic black sand beaches and marine life offshore. Opt to swim with seals or go whale watching. Chow down on the Kiwi national dish – fish and chips – for dinner.

Back on the train today, and we’ll travel the coast to the garden city of Christchurch, a little piece of England in New Zealand still rebuilding from a devastating earthquake. There’s heaps to see in this city – explore the unique cafes and creative space that is popping up as part of the rebuild.

Travel across the Southern Alps via the stunningly scenic Arthurs Pass. Stretch your legs with a mountain walk or a rainforest walk. Enjoy staying in the rainforest near the world’s fastest moving glacier.

SIGHTS

Arthurs Pass

Continue to Queenstown, the self-proclaimed adventure capital of the world. Opt to go bungy jumping (in its birthplace at K Bridge), jet boating (also born in New Zealand), skydiving, paragliding, hiking or mountain biking – it’s up to you. Not feeling the adventure buzz? No worries – take it a bit slower and travel by gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak. Enjoy the great night life.

SIGHTS

Bob’s Peak

Back in the van this morning, and we’re off to enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound from the deck of a boat. Take in the waterfalls and wildlife or venture out by kayak before an overnight on board (seasonal).

SIGHTS

Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound

Head up through the centre of the South Island to the historic mining area of Central Otago.

SIGHTS

Central Otago

Travel back to Christchurch for one final night together. On the way, we’ll cycle part of the famous ‘Otago Central Rail Trail’ to better take in the landscape.

SIGHTS

Otago Central Rail Trail

Depart at any time.