10 Day North and South

Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand! Your adventure begins in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, the country’s largest and most diverse city — often called the City of Sails thanks to its dual harbours and dozens of volcanic cones scattered across the landscape. After you arrive, head to the Nesuto Stadium Hotel to check in and collect your welcome letter, which includes all the key information for your upcoming tour.

This evening at 6:15pm, you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers and knowledgeable local guide, followed by a delicious welcome dinner at 6:30pm — the perfect way to begin your holiday.

Meals: Dinner

This morning, we depart lively Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland and make our way to the famous Waitomo glowworm caves — a natural wonder once showcased by Sir David Attenborough. You’ll drift silently by boat beneath thousands of shimmering glowworms before continuing on foot through a limestone cavern shaped by millions of years of geological artistry.

We then continue to Rotorua, the geothermal heart of New Zealand. This evening, enjoy a flavourful group dinner before settling into your Rotorua hotel for a relaxing night.

Included Activity: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we travel along the shores of Lake Rotorua to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Mount Tarawera — a volcano once overshadowing the famed Pink and White Terraces before its dramatic 1886 eruption reshaped the region. We then continue to the Buried Village, the country’s most visited archaeological site, where you’ll uncover the stories and preserved remnants of Te Wairoa and learn how the eruption transformed local life.

In the afternoon, we take a peaceful walk beneath the towering Redwoods and Douglas firs of Whakarewarewa Forest, with native silver ferns adding to the lush atmosphere. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Rotorua however you wish — wander through the bubbling mud pools of Kuirau Park, stroll along the lakeside and through the historic Government Gardens, unwind in the soothing mineral waters of the Polynesian Spa, or take the Gondola for sweeping views across the city and lake.

Included Activities: Buried Village, Scenic Walk in Whakarewarewa Forest
Meals: Breakfast

This morning, we’ll head to Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara to experience authentic New Zealand hospitality. Nestled on the lake, Kohutapu Lodge is owned by a passionate Māori family dedicated to community transformation through local initiatives.

Begin with a guided tour of sacred Māori rock carvings before witnessing the preparation of a traditional ground cooked hangi. Then, enjoy what many say is one of the finest meals in New Zealand, served at the lodge. After lunch, we travel to Taupō to marvel at the strikingly beautiful Huka Falls and explore this charming lakeside town.

• Included Activities: Kohutapu Lodge Tribal Tour
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Hangi Lunch

After breakfast, we make our way into the sun-drenched Hawke’s Bay region, celebrated for its outstanding vineyards and award-winning wines. At Mission Estate Winery, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting before sitting down to a relaxed lunch showcasing delicious regional cuisine paired with exceptional local wines — all enjoyed against a backdrop of warm sunshine and beautiful vineyard views.

In the afternoon, we continue to Napier, a delightful seaside town famous for its immaculate Art Deco buildings. Spend the evening wandering the scenic waterfront promenade or treat yourself to freshly caught seafood at one of the inviting restaurants overlooking the beach.

Included Activity: Mission Estate Winery
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we farewell Napier and travel south to Wellington, New Zealand’s lively capital — a city well known for its exceptional coffee culture. Along the way, we pause in Greytown, the oldest settlement in the Wairarapa region, to enjoy lunch. With its charming Victorian architecture and boutique shops, it’s an ideal spot to unwind before continuing our journey.

Wellington, with a population of just under 220,000, offers a unique blend of laid-back coastal living and creative, bohemian energy. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. A visit to Te Papa, the national museum, is highly recommended for its engaging and beautifully curated exhibits.

Included Activity: Wairarapa Visit
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we board the ferry for a scenic journey across the Cook Strait to the South Island. If the conditions are favourable, make your way to the outdoor deck to enjoy sweeping views of the Marlborough Sounds and keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life along the way.

Once we arrive in Picton, we head to Blenheim for a vineyard lunch at one of the region’s renowned Sauvignon Blanc estates. After enjoying superb local wine and a delicious meal, we continue on to Nelson. The afternoon and evening are yours to unwind, discover the town’s creative culture, or sample some of its outstanding local food and drink.

Included Activity: Marlborough Cellar Door Lunch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today is yours to make the most of Nelson — one of New Zealand’s sunniest cities, celebrated for its creative culture and its proximity to the country’s premier hop-growing region. If you’re feeling energetic, you might choose a relaxed cycling tour through local wineries or craft breweries, or simply take a gentle wander through the town’s boutique shops, galleries, and leafy streets.

Nature enthusiasts may opt for a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its golden-sand beaches, sparkling blue water, and coastal walking tracks. For those seeking a rewarding view, the walk to the Centre of New Zealand offers a scenic climb and sweeping vistas from the top — a memorable way to experience the beauty of the region.

Included Activity: Free day to explore Nelson
Optional Activities: Abel Tasman Cruise, Wine Tour, Craft Beer Experience, Queens Gardens, Centre of New Zealand Walk
Meals: Breakfast

This morning, we take our time travelling along the coastline, enjoying sweeping ocean views and watching for dolphins, seals, or seabirds that often appear along this route. The journey carries us from Kaikōura’s dramatic meeting of mountains and sea through the gentle, open landscapes of Canterbury’s countryside — a drive filled with remarkable contrasts and natural beauty.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Christchurch, where we come together for a relaxed group dinner at the hotel — a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day’s scenic highlights.

Included Activity: Scenic coastal travel day
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today brings your incredible journey to a close. After a relaxed breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your tour guide and the wonderful travelling companions you’ve met along the way. Whether you’re beginning your journey home or choosing to spend a little more time exploring Christchurch, we hope you leave with cherished memories and friendships that will stay with you long after the tour ends.

Meals: Breakfast