New Zealand Explorer – 12 Days / 11 Nights

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel. After check-in and some time to relax, head to Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower for the exhilarating SkyWalk Auckland experience. Walk around the exterior platform of the tower, 192 meters above the ground, while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline, harbors, and surrounding islands. Spend the evening at leisure exploring the vibrant waterfront and city center before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Auckland.

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel. After check-in and some time to relax, head to Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower for the exhilarating SkyWalk Auckland experience. Walk around the exterior platform of the tower, 192 meters above the ground, while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline, harbors, and surrounding islands. Spend the evening at leisure exploring the vibrant waterfront and city center before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Auckland.

Begin the day with a guided exploration of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. Trek through spectacular alpine terrain featuring volcanic craters, emerald-colored lakes, lava fields, and panoramic mountain views. Following this unforgettable outdoor adventure, travel to Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal and cultural capital. Known for bubbling mud pools, geysers, and rich Māori heritage, Rotorua offers a unique glimpse into the country’s natural wonders and traditions. Overnight stay in Rotorua.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing experience at Secret Spot Hot Tubs, where private cedar hot tubs are nestled within native forest surroundings. Soak in warm geothermal water while listening to the tranquil sounds of nature. Later, transfer back to Auckland Airport for your flight to Queenstown. Upon arrival in Queenstown, often referred to as the adventure capital of New Zealand, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure amid the stunning alpine setting. Overnight stay in Queenstown.

Today, embark on a full-day excursion to the world-famous Milford Sound. Travel through Fiordland National Park, passing spectacular valleys, mirror lakes, waterfalls, and ancient rainforests. Upon arrival, board a scenic cruise and sail through one of the most breathtaking fjords in the world. Marvel at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds. After the cruise, return to Queenstown through equally stunning landscapes. Overnight stay in Queenstown.

Start your day with an adrenaline-pumping ride on the legendary Shotover Jet, speeding through narrow river canyons and performing thrilling 360-degree spins. Continue to the renowned Kinross Winery for a classic wine-tasting experience, sampling premium Central Otago wines amidst beautiful vineyard surroundings. Later, ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola to Bob’s Peak for spectacular views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range. Enjoy three exciting luge rides before departing for the charming lakeside town of Wanaka. Overnight stay in Wanaka.

After breakfast, journey through some of the South Island’s most stunning alpine scenery. Travel via Lindis Pass and the Mackenzie Basin to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain. Enjoy free time to admire the dramatic glacier-carved landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and turquoise lakes. Continue to the picturesque Lake Tekapo, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop. In the evening, experience the magical “Soak in the Stars” stargazing experience, where you can relax in hot pools while observing one of the clearest night skies in the world. Overnight stay in Lake Tekapo.

This morning, enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo before departing for Christchurch. En route, pass through charming rural towns and scenic Canterbury landscapes. Upon arrival in Christchurch, explore New Zealand’s “Garden City,” known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and innovative urban regeneration projects. Stroll along the Avon River or visit local attractions at your leisure. Overnight stay in Christchurch.

After breakfast, travel along the scenic Pacific Coast to Kaikōura, a coastal paradise renowned for its rich marine life. Participate in an unforgettable dolphin encounter, where you will have the opportunity to swim alongside playful wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This unique wildlife experience is one of New Zealand’s most memorable adventures. Afterward, return to Christchurch and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Christchurch.

Today, journey across the Southern Alps via some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. Travel through lush forests, mountain passes, and dramatic river valleys before reaching the West Coast and the glacier region of Franz Josef Glacier. Surrounded by rainforest and towering peaks, Franz Josef offers a remarkable combination of alpine and coastal scenery. Enjoy the remainder of the day exploring this beautiful glacier village. Overnight stay in Franz Josef.

Experience one of the highlights of your New Zealand adventure with a thrilling 20-minute helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier. Soar above ancient ice formations, dramatic mountain ranges, and pristine snowfields while taking in breathtaking aerial views of the Southern Alps. Following the flight, enjoy free time to explore local walking trails, visit nearby viewpoints, or simply relax amidst the spectacular surroundings. Overnight stay in Franz Josef.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your scenic return journey to Christchurch. Enjoy final views of New Zealand’s magnificent mountains, rivers, forests, and countryside as you travel across the South Island. Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, proceed with check-in for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, thrilling adventures, unique wildlife encounters, and world-class natural attractions. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon.