22 Day Best of Both Islands

Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails. On completion of arrival formalities, collect your rental car and make your way to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore what the city has to offer

Travel north over the harbour bridge and through the northern suburbs of Auckland; the beachside homes of the Hibiscus Coast to the east and the bushclad Waitakere Ranges to the west. Enjoy spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush as you make your way to Paihia in the Bay of Islands, a seaside town nestled on the foreshore of the national maritime park. This afternoon, enjoy a 20-minute Helicopter Trip to the famous ‘Hole-in-the-Rock’.

Enjoy a day exploring the natural wonders of Paihia and the Bay of Islands. Cruise through the sparkling waters on the Hole in the Rock tour, where you’ll marvel at dramatic sea cliffs, navigate through the iconic rock formation, and witness abundant marine life, including dolphins and seabirds. With stunning coastal scenery and rich local history, this unforgettable experience showcases the Bay at its finest.

Take your time on the scenic drive back to Auckland today. Enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace, making the most of the stunning landscapes along the way as you return to the ‘City of Sails’.

Embark on a journey to Middle-earth with a tour of the legendary Hobbiton Movie Set. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Waikato countryside, this iconic film location offers immersive experience that transports you into the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s
imagination.

After your tour has concluded, continue your journey on to Rotorua.

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a Hells Gate Geothermal Walk, immersing yourself in the landscapes and natural wonders of this iconic geothermal reserve. Known for its rich Māori heritage, Hells Gate offers a unique opportunity to explore the raw power and beauty of the Earth’s geothermal forces.

Traverse the stunning landscapes of the North Island as you drive from Rotorua to Napier. Take a detour to explore the charming town of Taupo and admire the stunning views of the lake and mighty Huka Falls. As you arrive in Napier, you’ll be greeted by the city’s iconic art deco architecture. Take a stroll through the streets, admiring the beautifully preserved buildings.

Continue your journey towards Wellington, the vibrant capital city of New Zealand. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation at the InterContinental. The rest of the day is yours to explore Wellington at your leisure.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand with a private 60-minute tour at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand. Afterwards, spend some more free time exploring the city.

Set sail on a maritime adventure with a one-way ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton, traversing the stunning waters of the Cook Strait. Enhance your ferry experience with exclusive access to the Interislander Plus Lounge. Once you’ve arrived in Picton, continue driving another 40 minutes to your accommodation in Blenheim where you’ll spend the night.

Say goodbye to Blenheim as you travel to Christchurch and check into your hotel at the Sudima in Christchurch city. The rest of the day is yours to explore the ‘Garden City’ of New Zealand.

Nestled within the heart of New Zealand’s lush rainforest, Te Waonui Forest Retreat offers a haven of natural beauty. Surrounded by towering trees, this deluxe retreat invites you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Enjoy nature walks, stargazing, connecting with the local culture, and indulging in gourmet dining experiences.

Begin your day in Franz Josef with a breakfast at one of the local cafes, fuelling up for a day of adventure amidst the gorgeous landscapes of the West Coast. Consider joining a glacier helicopter tour or hike, getting up close with the icy giants, or soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Glacier Hot Pools for a more relaxing day

Arrive in Queenstown and check into your accommodation before exploring the adventure capital of the world. Consider a wander through the picturesque Queenstown Gardens, enjoy some lunch at one of the many charming cafes or restaurants, or unwind and pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa experience.

Nothing you will have experienced will have prepared you for the excitement of a Shotover Jet ride as you speed through the towering, rocky canyons of the South Island’s River of gold. The major highlight is the famous Shotover Turn where your boat spins through a full 360 degrees in its own length. The remainder of today is at leisure to relax or explore Queenstown. Optional activities available include bungy jumping, white water rafting, four-wheel driving, cruising on Lake Wakatipu, riding a gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views or simply enjoying the excellent shopping and dining available.

Welcome to the picturesque town of Te Anau, gateway to the stunning Fiordland region. Check into your accommodation at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains from your Lakeview Hotel Room.

Prepare for a day of awe-inspiring natural beauty as you embark on a Milford Sound Cruise. Sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking scenery as you cruise through the pristine waters of Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Savour a delicious seasonal packed lunch on board, featuring local flavours and fresh ingredients. Keep your camera ready to capture the iconic sights including Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and the famous Milford Sound Underwater Observatory.

Welcome to Dunedin, a city steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Check into your luxurious accommodation at Fable Dunedin. Take some time to unwind and admire the elegant surroundings of your accommodation before setting out to explore the city.

Step back in time as you explore the grandeur of this magnificent castle, with its towering turrets, ornate interiors, and stunning panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula. Stroll through the gardens surrounding the castle and discover hidden pathways, charming gazebos and whimsical sculptures.

Welcome to the heart of the Southern Alps, where rugged peaks and pristine glaciers await your discovery. Check into your accommodation at The Hermitage Mt Cook, located in the stunning landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Embark on a leisurely walk or hike along one of the many trails that wind through the alpine landscape. Cap your day off with a gourmet dining experience overlooking the majestic beauty of Mount Cook.

Say farewell to Mt Cook as you embark on one last trip to Christchurch. Spend your last day exploring sights such as the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens, dive into history at the Canterbury Museum, delight your taste buds at the Riverside Market or glide along the Avon River on a punting tour, soaking in the city’s beauty.

Sadly, your holiday is at an end. Return your rental car at Christchurch airport and connect with your onward flight.