10 Nights / 11 Days
In stylish comfort enjoy this exploration of the highlights of New Zealand. By trains, gondolas, boats—you’ll explore artistic creative beach towns, sample the cuisine and engage with the culture of Maori, and revel in the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand. Outstanding accommodations, an expert local CEO and upgraded transportation set this adventure apart from the rest.
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting 19:00 Tonight.
Feel free to explore the city after making your way in from the airport. Tonight after introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.
A creative, relaxed town, Raglan is home to one of the best left-hand breaks in the world and is the perfect place to stop for fish & chips or an ice cream. En route, visit spectacular Bridal Veil Falls for a walk. No need to be an expert here - there are lessons for surfing and paddle board. Then, enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the harbour, with stunning views of ancient limestone rock formations and local wildlife.Travel through the world's most productive dairy farming country, then head towards the rugged west coast of New Zealand.
Journey to a working eco farm for breakfast and to learn about local conservation efforts. Continue on to Tongariro National Park and enjoy a hike with views of an active volcano and spectacular scenery. There are plenty of short walks available to give you a taste of the terrain in New Zealand's oldest National Park with dual World Heritage status
After a short drive, enjoy the scenery as the road skirts around Lake Taupo region, en route to Rotorua. Visit a historic Maori village with a local guide who explains the geothermal aspects of the area. Learn about local myths and legends and enjoy dining on Hangi traditional cuisine. Later, relax with a dip in the geothermal spa pools at the hotel.Rotorua is home to a number of amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters.
Fly to Christchurch and enjoy an orientation walk. Your CEO, orientate you with useful places in new destinations like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in depth destination information, the Grand Tour of Christchurch is highly recommended.
Enjoy the scenic Tranz Alpine as it winds its way over massive viaducts and through spectacular gorges and river valleys, tracking slowly across the country's greatest mountain range, the Southern Alps. Transfer to coach and continue down the west coast to the glacial area of Franz Josef. Opt for a guided walk or a soak in the hot pools on your free day.
Spend the day exploring the stunning region around Franz Josef.
Optional Activities
(Additional Cost)
Helihike Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef Quad Bike Franz Josef
Hiking Franz Josef
Horseback Riding Franz Josef
Travel through the rugged rainforest scenery of the west coast, stopping at Lake Matheson for a view of the Southern alps reflected on the lake. This is one of the best driving days available as you cross the Haast Pass and traverse the banks of the emerald hued lake at Wanaka, through the Gibbston Valley to Queenstown. On arrival, take a gondola ride for fantastic views of the city and opt to enjoy a group dinner at a skyline restaurant.
Walter Peak High Country Farm is just a short boat ride from Queenstown across stunning Lake Wakatipu. The charming, lakefront location is a real draw card for Walter Peak Station, as is the great dining experience on offer.
Drive the scenic route around the lake to the town of Manapouri. Embark on an amazing wilderness cruise through Doubtful Sound staying on board overnight with the chance to see dolphins, fur seals, birds, and penguins. Option to go kayaking.
*Please note that the itinerary for this day varies in the winter: 18 May – 20 Sept Doubtful Sound / Te Anau In the evening, head to Te Anau for the night. Take in a screening of the award-winning ‘Ata Whenua’ – ‘Fjordland Film’ documentary at the local cinema before having a group meal.
Arrive back in Queenstown around 4pm. Please be sure to book any ongoing travel for after 8pm. We recommend booking post-tour accommodation to experience all this city has to offer. Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Absolute New Zealand was the brainchild of Brent Narbey and Nigel Williamson. Both were passionate about travel and promoting New Zealand and Australia as superb tourist destinations, but wanted to do something different from the traditional type of travel – unique itineraries that offered the best activities and experiences New Zealand and Australia had to offer, with an educational and cultural element.
After much research Absolute New Zealand was born, and from humble beginnings is now a leader in Australasian luxury travel. Read More...
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