Kia Ora New Zealand Escorted Tour • View Itinerary
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SAVE ON 2024 & 2025 TOURS
Mount Cook, South Island
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand
Whangarei, New Zealand
Glow Worm Caves
Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand
Huka Falls
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait
Kaikoura Whale
Telescope, Dark Sky Reserve stargazing evening, Tekapo
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand
Sutherland Falls, Fiordland National Park
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand
Lake Wanaka
TranzAlpine
Christchurch, New Zealand
SAVE ON 2024 & 2025 TOURS
Mount Cook, South Island
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand
Whangarei, New Zealand
Glow Worm Caves
Doors to Hobbiton Holes, Movie set, New Zealand
Huka Falls
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait
Kaikoura Whale
Lake Tekapo
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Milford Sound, Waterfall, New Zealand
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand
Lake Wanaka
TranzAlpine Train
Christchurch, New Zealand

Kia Ora New Zealand

17 day Escorted Tour – from £5150 £4380

With flights from £5730

17 day Escorted Tour – from £5320 £4522

With flights from £5872

This well planned tour explores New Zealand’s contrasting North and South Islands, including Auckland, the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Southern Alps and more!

Highlights:
  • Visit Waitomo’s famous Glowworm Grotto
  • See the bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers of Rotorua
  • Gaze upon the mystically beautiful Lake Taupo
  • Enjoy a cruise on the breathtaking Milford Sound
  • Travel on the TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s great rail journeys

Your Itinerary

Expand All

You can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or activities before or after your New Zealand tour. Just let us know what you would like to do.

Select Version:
Apr 2024 – Mar 2025
Apr 2025 – Mar 2026
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Day 1 – Welcome to Auckland

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome reception…

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome reception tonight.

    Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Day 2 – Auckland to Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands…

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands – 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret; this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Your guide, perhaps a descendent of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial canoe and a carved meeting house.

    CBreakfast, Dinneropthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

Day 3 – Bay of Islands

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up…

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand
Whangarei, New Zealand

Day 4 – Bay of Islands to Auckland

Whangarei is a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in…

Whangarei is a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising commute back to Auckland.

    Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

    Breakfast
Whangarei, New Zealand
Glow Worm Caves

Day 5 – Auckland to Rotorua

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your…

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers. This evening, explore Te Puia’s geothermal valley, and learn about Māori history and culture on this guided experience, which includes a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine and a cultural performance in a finely carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, armed with a hot chocolate you’ll view one of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderlands.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Glow Worm Caves
Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand

Day 6 – Rotorua

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at the…

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at the Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes at a working kiwi hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of today’s opportunity to visit the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast
Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand
Huka Falls

Day 7 – Rotorua to Wellington

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road…

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of mint-blue Lake Taupo. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.

    Travelodge Wellington

    Breakfast
Huka Falls
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait

Day 8 – Wellington to Picton

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te…

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets.

    Picton Yacht Club

    Breakfast, Dinner
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait
Kaikoura Whale

Day 9 – Picton to Christchurch

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the black sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you…

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the black sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Your Travel Director has tips on where to dine tonight.

    Wyndham Garden

    Breakfast
Kaikoura Whale
Telescope, Dark Sky Reserve stargazing evening, Tekapo

Day 10 – Christchurch to Omarama

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the…

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience in Tekapo, hosted by passionate guides, will forever change the way you see the night sky. You’ll see for yourself it may be one of the quietest spots on the planet, yet it has one of the busiest skies in the universe.

    Heritage Gateway Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Telescope, Dark Sky Reserve stargazing evening, Tekapo
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Day 11 – Omarama to Dunedin

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south…

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to Larnach Castle. While away the afternoon in the city’s art-lined alleys, or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives here – fur seals and penguins among them.

    Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

    Breakfast
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand
Sutherland Falls, Fiordland National Park

Day 12 – Dunedin to Te Anau

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town…

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau.

    Distinction Luxmore Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Sutherland Falls, Fiordland National Park
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand

Day 13 – Te Anau to Queenstown

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows…

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. All roads lead to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a string of waterfalls create a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Venture out into the Fiord on a sightseeing cruise, where dolphins and seals are a common sight.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand

Day 14 – Queenstown

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high…

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high octane jet boat ride, perhaps. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand
Lake Wanaka

Day 15 – Queenstown to Franz Josef/Waiau

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea…

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, the pretty town of Franz Josef/Waiau awaits.

    Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Wanaka
TranzAlpine

Day 16 – Franz Josef/Waiau to Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the…

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views.

    Wyndham Garden

    Breakfast, Dinner
TranzAlpine
Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 17 – Farewell from Christchurch

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the…

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the words to describe this epic adventure.

    Breakfast
Christchurch, New Zealand
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Day 1 – Welcome to Auckland

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome Reception…

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome Reception tonight.

    Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Day 2 – Auckland to Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands…

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands – 140 islands ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical significance; this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Your guide, perhaps a descendent of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial canoe and a carved meeting house.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

Day 3 – Bay of Islands

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up…

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand
Whangarei, New Zealand

Day 4 – Bay of Islands to Auckland

Whangarei is like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking…

Whangarei is like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising commute back to Auckland.

    Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

    Breakfast
Whangarei, New Zealand
Glow Worm Caves

Day 5 – Auckland to Rotorua

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your…

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers. This evening, explore Te Puia’s geothermal valley, and learn about Māori history and culture on this guided experience, which includes a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine and a cultural performance in a finely carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, armed with a hot chocolate you’ll view one of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderlands.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Glow Worm Caves
Doors to Hobbiton Holes, Movie set, New Zealand

Day 6 – Rotorua

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at Wai…

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at Wai Araki Hot Springs & Spa. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of today’s opportunity to visit the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast
Doors to Hobbiton Holes, Movie set, New Zealand
Huka Falls

Day 7 – Rotorua to Wellington

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road…

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of mint-blue Lake Taupo. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.

    Travelodge Wellington

    Breakfast
Huka Falls
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait

Day 8 – Wellington to Picton

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te…

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets.

    Picton Beachcomber Inn

    Breakfast, Dinner
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait
Kaikoura Whale

Day 9 – Picton to Christchurch

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot…

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore, Kaikoura is the marine wildlife centre of New Zealand.

    Ibis Hotel Christchurch

    Breakfast
Kaikoura Whale
Lake Tekapo

Day 10 – Christchurch to Omarama

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the…

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience in Tekapo, hosted by passionate guides, will forever change the way you see the night sky. You’ll see for yourself it may be one of the quietest spots on the planet, yet it has one of the busiest skies in the universe.

    Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Tekapo
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Day 11 – Omarama to Dunedin

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south…

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to Larnach Castle. While away the afternoon in the city’s art-lined alleys, or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives here – fur seals and penguins among them.

    Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

    Breakfast
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Day 12 – Dunedin to Te Anau

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town…

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau.

    Distinction Luxmore Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Milford Sound, Waterfall, New Zealand

Day 13 – Te Anau to Queenstown

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows…

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. All roads lead to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a string of waterfalls create a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Venture out into the Fiord on a sightseeing cruise, where dolphins and seals are a common sight.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Milford Sound, Waterfall, New Zealand
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand

Day 14 – Queenstown

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high…

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high octane jet boat ride, perhaps. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand
Lake Wanaka

Day 15 – Queenstown to Franz Josef/Waiau

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea…

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, the pretty town of Franz Josef/Waiau awaits.

    Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Wanaka
TranzAlpine Train

Day 16 – Franz Josef/Waiau to Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the…

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views.

    Ibis Hotel Christchurch

    Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
TranzAlpine Train
Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 17 – Farewell from Christchurch

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the…

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the words to describe this epic adventure.

    Breakfast
Christchurch, New Zealand

Your Itinerary

You can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or activities before or after your New Zealand tour. Just let us know what you would like to do.

Select Version:
Apr 2024 – Mar 2025
Apr 2025 – Mar 2026

Day 1

|

Welcome to Auckland

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome reception tonight.

    Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Day 2

|

Auckland to Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands – 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret; this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Your guide, perhaps a descendent of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial canoe and a carved meeting house.

    CBreakfast, Dinneropthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Day 3

|

Bay of Islands

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

Day 4

|

Bay of Islands to Auckland

Whangarei is a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It’s like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising commute back to Auckland.

    Holiday Inn Express, Auckland

    Breakfast
Whangarei, New Zealand

Day 5

|

Auckland to Rotorua

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers. This evening, explore Te Puia’s geothermal valley, and learn about Māori history and culture on this guided experience, which includes a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine and a cultural performance in a finely carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, armed with a hot chocolate you’ll view one of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderlands.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Glow Worm Caves

Day 6

|

Rotorua

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at the Polynesian Spa. Animal lover? Go behind the scenes at a working kiwi hatchery. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of today’s opportunity to visit the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast
Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand

Day 7

|

Rotorua to Wellington

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of mint-blue Lake Taupo. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.

    Travelodge Wellington

    Breakfast
Huka Falls

Day 8

|

Wellington to Picton

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets.

    Picton Yacht Club

    Breakfast, Dinner
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait

Day 9

|

Picton to Christchurch

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the black sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore. Your Travel Director has tips on where to dine tonight.

    Wyndham Garden

    Breakfast
Kaikoura Whale

Day 10

|

Christchurch to Omarama

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience in Tekapo, hosted by passionate guides, will forever change the way you see the night sky. You’ll see for yourself it may be one of the quietest spots on the planet, yet it has one of the busiest skies in the universe.

    Heritage Gateway Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Telescope, Dark Sky Reserve stargazing evening, Tekapo

Day 11

|

Omarama to Dunedin

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to Larnach Castle. While away the afternoon in the city’s art-lined alleys, or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives here – fur seals and penguins among them.

    Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

    Breakfast
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Day 12

|

Dunedin to Te Anau

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau.

    Distinction Luxmore Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Sutherland Falls, Fiordland National Park

Day 13

|

Te Anau to Queenstown

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. All roads lead to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a string of waterfalls create a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Venture out into the Fiord on a sightseeing cruise, where dolphins and seals are a common sight.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand

Day 14

|

Queenstown

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high octane jet boat ride, perhaps. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand

Day 15

|

Queenstown to Franz Josef/Waiau

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, the pretty town of Franz Josef/Waiau awaits.

    Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Wanaka

Day 16

|

Franz Josef/Waiau to Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views.

    Wyndham Garden

    Breakfast, Dinner
TranzAlpine

Day 17

|

Farewell from Christchurch

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the words to describe this epic adventure.

    Breakfast
Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 1

|

Welcome to Auckland

Explore waterfront precincts filled with yachts or just meet fellow travel companions for a Welcome Reception tonight.

    Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Day 2

|

Auckland to Bay of Islands

Say goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ as you journey north to the Bay of Islands – 140 islands ringed by turquoise sea. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical significance; this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Your guide, perhaps a descendent of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial canoe and a carved meeting house.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Day 3

|

Bay of Islands

Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps travel up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or glide around on an historic tall ship, enjoy a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

Day 4

|

Bay of Islands to Auckland

Whangarei is like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising commute back to Auckland.

    Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

    Breakfast
Whangarei, New Zealand

Day 5

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Auckland to Rotorua

After a morning of sightseeing, set your GPS for the Waitomo Caves. Cruising cavernous waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It’s a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers. This evening, explore Te Puia’s geothermal valley, and learn about Māori history and culture on this guided experience, which includes a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine and a cultural performance in a finely carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, armed with a hot chocolate you’ll view one of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderlands.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Glow Worm Caves

Day 6

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Rotorua

Explore at your own pace today. Want a bit of down time? Bliss out at Wai Araki Hot Springs & Spa. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of today’s opportunity to visit the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton.

    Ibis Rotorua Hotel

    Breakfast
Doors to Hobbiton Holes, Movie set, New Zealand

Day 7

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Rotorua to Wellington

At Huka Falls, 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of mint-blue Lake Taupo. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll need a guidebook. Wait, you have an in-the-know Travel Director to talk to.

    Travelodge Wellington

    Breakfast
Huka Falls

Day 8

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Wellington to Picton

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafés, designed to fuel you through a session at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Onwards to the Interislander for a cruise across Cook Strait, from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets.

    Picton Beachcomber Inn

    Breakfast, Dinner
Interislander Ferry, Cook Strait

Day 9

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Picton to Christchurch

There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore, Kaikoura is the marine wildlife centre of New Zealand.

    Ibis Hotel Christchurch

    Breakfast
Kaikoura Whale

Day 10

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Christchurch to Omarama

On your city tour view the mind-bending Transitional Cathedral, made largely of cardboard, and Turanga, the gold-clad central library. From here, your outlook is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience in Tekapo, hosted by passionate guides, will forever change the way you see the night sky. You’ll see for yourself it may be one of the quietest spots on the planet, yet it has one of the busiest skies in the universe.

    Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Tekapo

Day 11

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Omarama to Dunedin

Oamaru, with its stately tree-lined streets and limestone buildings, stands proud before you journey further south toward the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Dunedin’s Scottish ancestry is everywhere you look, from the manicured grounds of Otago University to Larnach Castle. While away the afternoon in the city’s art-lined alleys, or venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives here – fur seals and penguins among them.

    Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

    Breakfast
Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Day 12

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Dunedin to Te Anau

Weave your way into Fiordland National Park and the South Island’s biggest lake and the town of Te Anau.

    Distinction Luxmore Hotel

    Breakfast, Dinner
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Day 13

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Te Anau to Queenstown

Your route through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and mirror-like lakes. All roads lead to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a string of waterfalls create a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Venture out into the Fiord on a sightseeing cruise, where dolphins and seals are a common sight.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast
Milford Sound, Waterfall, New Zealand

Day 14

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Queenstown

Take Queenstown at your own pace today. Feel the wind in your hair on a high octane jet boat ride, perhaps. Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner.

    Copthorne Hotel and Resort

    Breakfast, Dinner
TSS Earnslaw Views, New Zealand

Day 15

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Queenstown to Franz Josef/Waiau

Leaving Lake Wakatipu behind, Arrowtown and Lake Dunstan appear on the horizon. Then there’s Lake Hawea followed by Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Over the Haast Pass, the pretty town of Franz Josef/Waiau awaits.

    Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

    Breakfast, Dinner
Lake Wanaka

Day 16

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Franz Josef/Waiau to Christchurch

Swap snow for pounamu (native greenstone or jade) in Hokitika: the pounamu found here is the stuff jewellery dreams are made of. Just when you thought your adventure couldn’t get any better, you’ll aboard the TranzAlpine train bound for Christchurch, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views.

    Ibis Hotel Christchurch

    Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
TranzAlpine Train

Day 17

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Farewell from Christchurch

Two islands, glaciers, lakes, thermal springs and a parade of wildlife… We hope you find the words to describe this epic adventure.

    Breakfast
Christchurch, New Zealand

This Tour Includes

16 nights hotel accommodation
16 breakfasts and 8 dinners
Activities and experiences as detailed in the itinerary
Expert tour director
Travel by luxury, air-conditioned coach
Professional and experienced driver

This Tour Includes

16 nights accommodation
16 breakfasts and 8 dinners
Activities and experiences as detailed in the itinerary
Expert tour director
Travel by luxury, air-conditioned coach
Professional and experienced driver

Departure Dates

Check for departure dates that suit you:

2024-11-30

2025-01-11

2025-01-18

2025-01-25

2025-02-01

2025-02-08

2025-02-15

2025-02-22

2025-03-01

2025-03-08

2025-03-15

2025-03-22

2025-04-12

2025-04-19

2025-05-24

2025-06-21

2025-07-19

2025-08-02

2025-08-30

2025-09-06

2025-09-20

2025-09-27

2025-10-04

2025-10-11

2025-10-18

2025-10-25

2025-11-01

2025-11-08

2025-11-22

2025-11-29

2025-12-06

2025-12-13

2025-12-20

2026-01-03

2026-01-10

2026-01-17

2026-01-24

2026-01-31

2026-02-07

2026-02-14

2026-02-21

2026-02-28

2026-03-07

2026-03-14

2026-03-21

2026-04-11

2026-04-18

2026-05-23

2026-06-20

2026-07-18

2026-08-01

2026-08-29

2026-09-05

2026-09-19

2026-09-26

2026-10-03

2026-10-10

2026-10-17

2026-10-24

2026-10-31

2026-11-07

2026-11-21

2026-11-28

2026-12-05

2026-12-12

2026-12-19

2027-01-02

2027-01-09

2027-01-16

2027-01-23

2027-01-30

2027-02-06

2027-02-13

2027-02-20

2027-02-27

2027-03-06

2027-03-13

2027-03-20

To confirm availability please call 0333 234 3209.

This tour is also available in reverse, from Christchurch to Auckland. Please contact us for departure dates.

Flights & More

With FREEDOM, you can book your Kia Ora New Zealand escorted tour and flights together, as an ATOL protected package. Our Travel Experts can find the best priced Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for you.

You can also personalise your holiday. Why not add:

  • Extra nights in Auckland or Christchurch before or after your tour
  • A stopover to New Zealand in Singapore, Dubai or another destination

Next Step

Please get in touch with our New Zealand Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.

Kia Ora New Zealand

17 day Escorted Tour – from £5150 £4380

With flights from £5730

17 day Escorted Tour – from £5320 £4522

With flights from £5872

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin room. Flights, hotels and tours are subject to availability and seasonal variations may apply. Please call Freedom Destinations for details.

Map

Kia Ora New Zealand Map

Map

Kia Ora New Zealand Map

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