On arrival at Auckland Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, enabling you to spend the remainder of the day resting and exploring downtown Auckland.

In the Maori language, Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the city of 100 lovers. It earned this name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many.

The Auckland region boasts three harbours, two mountain ranges, 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands. Auckland’s population is approximately 1.3 million, making it by far the largest city in New Zealand, with one third of the country’s entire population.

Standard: Sudima Auckland
Deluxe: Airedale Boutique Suites

You may like to start your day with breakfast at one of the trendy cafes in Ponsonby, followed by a visit to the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the Auckland Domain, where you can learn about New Zealand’s history and Maori culture. Stroll through the nearby Wintergardens, and then head to the bustling Viaduct Harbour for a leisurely lunch with waterfront views.

In the afternoon, take a ferry to Waiheke Island to enjoy its stunning beaches and renowned vineyards. Sample local wines and relax on the island before returning to the city. In the evening, visit the vibrant Britomart precinct for boutique shopping and dining at one of its many upscale restaurants.

You may like to end your day with a sunset walk along Mission Bay, soaking in the scenic views of Rangitoto Island.

Standard: Sudima Auckland
Deluxe: Airedale Boutique Suites

Collect your rental car before heading south from Auckland, to the town and lake of Rotorua.

Rotorua is the centre of the intense thermal activity in New Zealand. Geysers, pools of boiling mud, crystal springs, hot mineral water and richly coloured craters make Rotorua one of the world’s great geothermal attractions.

The city itself is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua where there are plenty of opportunities for boat excursions and fishing expeditions

Auckland > Rotorua | 360 kms

Standard: Distinction Rotorua
Deluxe: Regent of Rotorua

Spend the day at leisure in Rotorua. You may wish to visit to Te Puia – one of Rotorua’s famous thermal areas, with the country’s largest geyser, Pohutu (reaching to about 31m), the Prince of Wales’ Feathers geyser, boiling mud pools and silica terraces.

Rotorua is also one of New Zealand’s centres for Maori Culture, with this indigenous culture prevalent throughout the town. You can discover more at Te Pa Tu, just 20 minutes drive out of Rotorua, where recreated traditional villages have been made in the ancient Tawa Forest.

There are a host of activities of offer to help you explore the region and in the evening we recommend experiencing a traditional Maori Hangi Feast.

Standard: Distinction Rotorua
Deluxe: Regent of Rotorua

Make your way back to Auckland. If you drove down to Rotorua via Hamilton on the way down, why not head to the coast at Tauranga and up to Coromandel before returning to Auckland (or vice versa).

Return your rental car to the Auckland City Depot on arrival. and make your way back to your hotel.

Rotorua > Auckland | 240 kms

Standard: Sudima Auckland
Deluxe: Airedale Boutique Suites

This morning you will get a coach transfer to the Auckland Rail Station in time to depart on the Northern Explorer from Auckland to Wellington – the national capital of New Zealand.

Your journey on the Northern Explorer offers a spectacular journey through the North Island’s diverse landscapes. From your seat, you’ll witness the lush farmlands and rolling hills of the Waikato region, the rugged terrain and volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, including the iconic Mount Ruapehu. The train also traverses the dramatic Raurimu Spiral and passes through serene river gorges and native bush.

Standard: Rydges Wellington
Deluxe: QT Museum Hotel

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand lies at the southern end of the North Island. On the shores of a magnificent harbour and surrounded by the rugged beauty of green hills, it is one of the most scenic cities. Some of the best views are obtained from the hilltops especially from the Mt Victoria lookout or take a ride on the cable car up to the Botanical gardens.

Public buildings of interest are the Dominion Museum and National Art Gallery, parliament buildings and the Alexander Turnbull library. A must see attraction in the “capital” is New Zealand’s National Museum. Named “Te Papa” (our place) it contains a wealth of information on New Zealand’s past, present and future, many interactive exhibits, multi-media database and fascinating collections.

Standard: Rydges Wellington
Deluxe: QT Museum Hotel

This morning you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the Ferry Terminal Depot ready to board the InterIslander Ferry for your journey across Cook Strait to Picton.

More than just a ferry route, the Interislander is both a vital link between the islands, and an extremely picturesque journey as you cruise through the Marlborough Sounds. Be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and other wildlife as you cross.

On arrival into Picton, you will connect with the Coastal Pacific Train for your scenic journey down the East Coast to Christchurch.

Standard: Crowne Plaza
Deluxe: The George

This morning collect your reserved rental car and begin driving south towards the village of Mt Cook.

Today’s route starts with the serene Canterbury Plains, followed by the charming town of Geraldine, known for its local crafts and eateries.

As you continue, you will be able to visit the quaint village of Fairlie and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, where you can stop at the Church of the Good Shepherd and soak in the stunning views.

The journey continues through the scenic Mackenzie Basin, offering panoramic vistas of vast grasslands and distant mountains. Finally, as you approach Mount Cook Village, you’ll be greeted by the majestic Southern Alps and the towering peak of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand.

Christchurch > Mt Cook | 330 kms

Standard: The Hermitage Hotel
Deluxe: The Hermitage Hotel (Superior Room)

This morning you will be able to take in the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook National Park and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, before making your way to the equally scenic town of Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu.

On the way you may like to stop at the towns of Twizel,  Omarama and Cromwell to sample some of the local produce such as salmon, fruits and wine.

Alternatively you may like to take in the scenic viewpoint at Lindis Pass, a high mountain pass that makes for some great photography.

Just before your reach Queenstown you may like to stop at the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, to watch people try the original bungy jump. If you are brave you could even give it a go yourself! Or you could just enjoy the scenic views of the gorge.

Mt Cook > Queenstown | 260 kms

Standard: Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown
Deluxe: Browns Boutique Hotel

Following an early morning collection from your Queenstown hotel, you will be transported by coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, through the rolling countryside to Te Anau and then through the impressive and dramatic mountain scenery along the Milford Road. You will be able to view mountains, waterfalls and lakes from the comfort of your seat.

On arrival into Milford, you will board your luxury vessel for a cruise along the full length of the Sound. There are some excellent photo opportunities as you drift past cascading waterfalls, lush green rainforests and rugged towering peaks. There is also the opportunity to spot the seals, dolphins and penguins which reside in the sound.

You coach will return you to your hotel at the end of the day.

Standard: Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown
Deluxe: Browns Boutique Hotel

Today you can leave the car, and spend your day at leisure sightseeing around Queenstown. There is a lot to occupy you, from thrilling jet boat rides, vintage steamer cruises on the lake, visits to high country sheep stations or mountain gondola rides — the list is endless.

You will also have plenty of time to relax and simply marvel at the beautiful scenery.

You can pre-book your Queenstown activities before you travel.

Standard: Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown
Deluxe: Browns Boutique Hotel

This morning make your way up the West Coast to Franz Josef from Queenstown. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure in Franz Josef. Nowhere in the world’s temperate zones are glaciers as accessible as South Westland’s most famous pair, Franz Josef and Fox. Both descend to levels of about 1000 feet (300 metres) above sea level. Franz Josef Glacier is a remnant of a much older, larger glacier, which flowed from the alpine snowfields right to the sea.

The glacier is over 12 km long extending into the rainforest just 5km from the Franz Josef Township, making it easy to visit. Walk to viewpoints, or for a close-up view of the spectacular ice formations, take a guided glacier walk, heli-hike excursion or scenic flight.

Queenstown > Franz Josef | 360 kms

Standard: Scenic Hotel, Franz Josef
Deluxe: Holly Homestead

You could spend some more time exploring the glacier, and complete the heli-hike if you didn’t have time yesterday, then make your way from Franz Josef up the South Island’s eastern coastline to Hokitika.

Just north of Franz josef is Lake Mapourika, a tranquil lake with stunning surroundings. At Okarito a short detour brings you to this coastal village with a beautiful lagoon. The Okarito Trig Walk is worth following for panoramic views.

At Hokitika you can walk along the beach. You may also like to take the short hike up to the gorge, where the river waters appear a bright turquoise due to the glacial sediment flowing down from up river.

Franz Josef > Hokitika | 138 kms

Standard: Beachfront Hotel
Deluxe: Rimu Lodge

From Hokitika continue up the coast to the town of Greymouth. Just before reaching Greymouth, the Shantytown Heritage Park is a recreated gold rush village that provides interactive exhibits and activities.

This afternoon return your rental car to the rental car counter at the Greymouth Railway Station, before departing on board the scenic TranzAlpine Train for your journey across Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch.

This scenic train ride begins by crossing the Grey River, before ascending into the Southern Alps, providing dramatic views of mountain peaks, gorges and waterfalls. After passing through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, the train descends to cross the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains before reaching Christchurch.

On arrival in Christchurch transfer to your hotel.

Standard: Crowne Plaza
Deluxe: The George

Christchurch is known as the ‘most English City outside England’.

In Christchurch you can explore the stunning Botanic Gardens and the picturesque Hagley Park, perfect for leisurely strolls after your journey.

You can discover Christchurch’s arts scene at the Canterbury Museum and the Christchurch Art Gallery then take a ride on the historic Christchurch Tram for a unique city tour, or visit the rejuvenated Riverside Market for local cuisine and shopping.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Port Hills for hiking and panoramic views, or the nearby Banks Peninsula for dolphin watching and coastal walks.

Standard: Crowne Plaza
Deluxe: The George

Although it is time to check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport, you may still have time to visit the International Antarctic Centre that is conveniently adjacent to the airport.

When you are ready, check-in at the airport in time for your scheduled flight to continue your holiday or return home.