Asia and Pacific

New Zealand | Natural Heritage in Scenic New Zealand

Duration:
14 Days
Interests:
Adventure
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
Kea bird
New Zealand fur seals at Kaikoura
Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch
Ōkārito Lagoon
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Point Elizabeth
Queenstown cityscape and Lake Wakatipu
New Zealand Kaka
Sperm Whale
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

With its awe-inspiring scenery, distinct biodiversity, and inviting community spirit, New Zealand leaves an indelible impression on its visitors. This 14-day journey brings you through the best of the North and South Islands, from forests and farmlands to glaciers and the sea. Hike among dramatic mountain vistas, take in views over windswept coastal cliffs, and explore ancient forest, getting to know New Zealand’s endemic plant and bird life – plus the conservation efforts to protect them. You’ll also witness the living phenomena of the islands’ ecosystems: the cave-dwelling bioluminescent glowworms at Waitomo, the fur seals and sperm whales off the coast of Kaikoura, and the country’s most famous native bird and national symbol, the kiwi.

Highlights

  • Kayak the gentle waters of the Okarito Lagoon amid the dramatic scenery of the Southern Alps.

  • Embark on easy hikes through native forest, along rocky coastline, and over the river bed leading to Franz Josef Glacier.

  • Go whale watching off the coast of Kaikoura, a krill-rich feeding ground that yields great chances for seeing whales year-round.

  • Witness the phenomenon of bioluminescent glowworms in the caves of Waitomo.

  • Sample local wines of the Central Otago region and learn why its climate conditions are perfect for viticulture.

  • Learn about conservation initiatives at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

What makes us different

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Custom-tailored Trips

At Holbrook Travel we can customize any itinerary to meet the needs and goals of your group.

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Cultural Discovery

Put culture in context as you discover the history and traditions of your destination

Custom field guides

Receive custom field guides created just for your trip, including book suggestions and packing lists

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart US
Day 1
Depart United States.
In Flight
Day 2
During the overnight flight, cross the international dateline. On this journey to New Zealand, you "lose a day" (which you will "gain" upon your return).
Auckland
Day 3
Upon arrival in Auckland, on New Zealand's North Island, a shuttle will take you from the airport to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to rest or head out to explore Auckland, the "City of Sails," and New Zealand's most populous city.
Crowne Plaza
Cambridge
Day 4
After breakfast and program orientation, depart south into the Waikato heartland of the North Island. Making our way toward Cambridge, we'll pass through a variety of scenery, from pastoral farmland to the open, flat Hauraki Plains. En route, stop at Waitomo to see the stunning glow-worm caves. Walk through the Ruakuri cave to learn more about the geological significance of the area, and witness the bioluminescent glowworms, which make the cave ceiling look like a brilliantly lit night sky. Continue to the town of Cambridge, New Zealand's equine capital, known also as "The Town of Trees & Champions." Explore the tree-lined streets of this quaint community located on the banks of the powerful Waikato River.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Kelly Road Cambridge Lodge
Cambridge
Day 5
Today explore Sanctuary Mountain in Maungatautari. This 8,400-acre, predator-proof conservation project aims to continue the reintroduction of threatened and endangered species via breeding programs and gives visitors the opportunity to see some of New Zealand's most incredible animals in a sound ecological environment. Experience a kiwi feeding and then walk through the park on its many trails. Stop for a picnic lunch in the native forest of the southern enclosure and try to spot birds like the North Island Kaka, Takahe, Hihi/Stitchbird, and Kokako, all of which are threatened or endangered and found only in New Zealand. Other wildlife that can be found at Sanctuary Mountain includes the Mahoenui giant weta (an endemic flightless insect), reptiles like geckos and tuataras, the koura (a freshwater crayfish), and North Island long-tailed bats.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Kelly Road Cambridge Lodge
Christchurch
Day 6
Today, we'll return to Auckland to catch our flight to Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island. Begin the journey after breakfast, with a stop on the way to stretch and have lunch in the small town of Te Aroha, famous for its naturally hot soda waters and Mokena geyser. Here we'll take a short hike to Wairere Falls, nestled among native forest and moss-covered rocks. Continue on to Auckland in time to fly to Christchurch in the late afternoon.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Merivale Manor
Christchurch
Day 7
This morning, join a specialist local guide for a walking tour of Christchurch. Learn about the history and settlement of the country's oldest city, which was badly damaged by the 2011 earthquake and its aftershocks. Witness how the city has joined together to build itself up again, notably at the Cardboard Cathedral, which was erected as a temporary replacement for the city's demolished Anglican cathedral. The first significant structure rebuilt in the recovery effort, the transitional cathedral is a symbol of hope and resilience. From the cathedral, we'll take a walk through the city center and end at the botanic gardens to enjoy some of the greenery. In the afternoon, enjoy time for independent exploration.
Merivale Manor
Kaikoura
Day 8
Depart Christchurch and travel up the South Island's east coast to the seaside town of Kaikoura. This town is famous for its marine wildlife and delicious seafood, so be sure to taste some of the delicacies on offer! This afternoon, walk around the windswept Kaikoura peninsula to take in ocean views and see the native New Zealand fur seal colony.
Breakfast- included
The Fairways
Lewis Pass
Day 9
Embark on a morning excursion aboard a catamaran to explore the krill-rich waters off the coast of Kaikoura. Because of this reliable food source, there is a 95% success rate of seeing whales year round here - one of New Zealand's most iconic wildlife viewing opportunities. Sperm whales are common, as well as humpback, blue, minke, southern right and beaked whales. You may also get the chance to observe albatross, penguins, New Zealand fur seals, and dolphins. Back on dry land, we'll head inland toward the mighty Southern Alps, which bisect the South Island from northeast to southwest. Our destination is Lewis Pass, one of the main crossings of the mountain range. Arrive for our overnight stay in Maruia Springs, a quaint town nestled within the pass, where you may wish to take advantage of a soak in the lovely hot springs under the stars.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Maruia Hot Springs
Franz Josef
Day 10
Complete the crossing over the Southern Alps to the South Island's rugged west. Sparsely populated, the Westland is famous for iconic scenery of rocky cliffs, fjords, and glaciers. Our first stop is the Point Elizabeth walkway near Greymouth, where we'll take a walk through varied forest to a panoramic clifftop viewing platform. We'll then drive southward along the scenic coastline and stop in Hokitika for a jade-carving workshop at a local art gallery. Jade, called "greenstone," or pounamu in M?ori, is found in abundance here, and treasured by the Ng?i Tahu, the principal M?ori community of the South Island. Continue south toward "Glacier Country," where the Southern Alps encroach on the western coast, and numerous glaciers run off from the mountains to the ocean. After checking in to the hotel in Franz Josef, you'll have the chance to take a short walk to see some local glowworms in the evening, or just relax at your own pace.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Rainforest Retreat
Franz Josef
Day 11
This morning, visit the tiny seaside hamlet of Okarito, home to only about 30 residents yet many species of wading birds. Embark onto double kayaks and glide along the gentle waters to explore the beauty of the Okarito Lagoon and glimpse some of the bird life here. Keep an eye out for White heron, Black swans, pied oystercatchers, royal spoonbills and cormorants all nesting among the dunes and reeds. We'll follow the estuary up the river channels deep into Kahikatea forest, all with a stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. After a hearty lunch, we'll hike towards Franz Josef Glacier to get a closer look at the spectacle of this frozen river carving its way down from the mountaintops. Both Franz Josef Glacier and nearby Fox Glacier flow almost to sea level, making them incredibly accessible to visitors. On a gentle valley walk along the Waiho River bed to the terminal face, learn about the history of the glacier, its retreat, and the geology of glacial carving.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Rainforest Retreat
Queenstown
Day 12
Continue south along the west coast, taking note of the bent and tilting tree formations that are a result of the perpetual and powerful trade winds coming off the ocean. As we journey along the spectacular coastline, we'll stop at intervals to take in the dramatic views and see some waterfalls. In the afternoon, head inland to the town of Wanaka for wine tasting at a local family-owned vineyard. Here we'll have a chance to sample the delicious wines of the semi-arid Central Otago region, famous for its Pinot Noir grapes. Learn from the winemakers why the climate conditions here are perfect for viticulture, then journey southward to Queenstown, "the Adventure Capital" of New Zealand.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Crowne Plaza
Queenstown
Day 13
This morning, visit Queenstown's Kiwi Birdlife Park to see New Zealand's most famous bird up close: the nocturnal kiwi. Learn about this endemic bird and national symbol of New Zealand during a feeding demonstration, and enjoy a free-flight conservation show with an up-close view of New Zealand native birds and reptiles. This afternoon, take advantage of a few hours at leisure to explore Queenstown, then reconvene with the g gondola ride up Bob's Peak. Share a farewell dinner at the Skyline Restaurant with stunning views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Crowne Plaza
Wanaka
Day 13

This morning do a short walk around Lake Matheson to catch the early morning calm before the wind picks up, see the stunning reflections of the Southern Alps reflected in the surface of the lake. Heading south along the rugged west coast, see the power of the westerly trade winds in the tree formations, as many of them grown into a bent shape from the perpetual winds coming off the ocean. Journey along the spectacular coastline, stopping at intervals to take in the dramatic views and local waterfalls. In the afternoon head inland over the Haast pass towards Lake Wanaka for a lakeside evening stroll.

Breakfast-Lunch- included
Wanaka Hotel
Depart
Day 14
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Auckland and connection to international departures.
Breakfast- included
Wanaka
Day 14

In the morning jump onto a boat across Lake Wanaka to a wildlife island reserve which is famed for its large population of the native buff Weka. These flightless birds are very inquisitive and give us some good insights into New Zealand conservation. Afterwards we'll head to a local winery for some lunch and a chance to sample the delicious wines of Central Otago. This region is famous for its Pinot Noir grapes, learn from the winemakers why the climate conditions here are perfect for viticulture. This evening enjoy the cute alpine town of Wanaka at your leisure.

Breakfast-Lunch- included
Wanaka Hotel
What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
  • International flights
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Passports must be valid for at least three months after the date of entry.

To enter New Zealand, U.S. citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA) prior to departure. Requesting an NZeTA costs NZD $9 through the free mobile app or NZD $12 if applying through the website. Allow up to 72 hours for processing, although it could take as little as 10 minutes. To apply, you will need your passport, a credit card or debit card (Visa or MasterCard), and an email address. Visit https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz for more information.

Travelers must also pay the IVL, a levy that funds tourism infrastructure and helps protect the natural environment. The IVL costs NZD $35 and is paid at the same time you request your NZeTA. 

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the New Zealand Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into New Zealand.

Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines before visiting New Zealand.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

SAND FLIES

In wetter areas, particularly in Fiordland, sand flies can be pests, but are effectively controlled by use of an insect repellent.

GIARDIA

Giardia is a water-borne parasite that causes diarrhea. To avoid contracting it, it is best not to drink water from lakes, ponds or rivers without first boiling, chemically treating or filtering it.

SUN EXPOSURE

New Zealand's clear, unpolluted atmosphere and relatively low latitudes produce sunlight stronger than much of Europe or North America. The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Resources

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Suggested Packing List

To help you get ready for your expedition, below is a suggested packing list. 

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

  • T-shirts/blouses and long-sleeved shirts for layering
  • Jeans/long pants
  • At least 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, preferably waterproof
  • Sandals for the beach or around your hotel
  • 1 pair dress shoes
  • Undergarments and socks
  • Sleepwear
  • 2 sweaters and/or lightweight jacket (heavier jacket and warmer clothes if traveling during winter months)
  • Durable waterproof raincoat
  • Bathing suit and beach towel
  • Sunglasses,
  • visored cap/hat

MISCELLANEOUS

  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Insect repellant
  • Camera, batteries/charger, and extra memory cards
  • Binoculars
  • Small notebook and pen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Flashlight
  • Plastic bags (for wet items and dirty laundry)
  • Lightweight daypack or fold-up/expandable tote bag
  • Photocopies of all documentation/passport/tickets
  • Prescription drugs and a copy of the prescription
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