New Zealand | Exploring Treasures of the North and South Islands
About this trip
This comprehensive, 16-day adventure celebrates the cultural, geologic, and biological diversity of New Zealand, visiting both the North and South islands. The range of terrain and microclimates will astound you, from the volcanic peaks and geothermal springs of the north to the southern rainforests, alpine mountains and glacier fields. It’s all bounded by a stunning coastline where you’ll seek dolphins, seals, penguins, and other marine species. You’ll have the option to hike, kayak, bungee jump, go on an ATV tour, and more in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” and everywhere, you’ll encounter the rich culture of the Maori, New Zealand’s original inhabitants.
Highlights
- Admire the steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools of Te Puia geothermal valley in Rotorua.
- Cruise on scenic Milford Sound in Fjordland National Park.
- Experience Maori culture at Mitai village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional hangi feast.
- Hike through lush rainforest and alongside the Waiho River in the valley where the Franz Josef glacier once stood.
- Take a meandering boat ride at Waitomo Caves, under the thousands of glowworms that light up the cave ceiling.
- Ride a gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for dinner and spectacular views of Queenstown below.
11 Travelers
Land Cost
$7,295 - Jul 1, 2020 - Sep 30, 2021
$7,555 - Oct 1, 2021 - Sep 30, 2022
Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
16 Travelers
Land Cost
$6,855 - Jul 1, 2020 - Sep 30, 2021
$7,155 - Oct 1, 2021 - Sep 30, 2022
Book 15 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
What makes us different
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
Sustainable travel
We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.
Custom-tailored trips
We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget
Expert guides
We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field
Support local communities
We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region
Flight arrangements
We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryDepart United States
Day 1Depart United States
International Dateline
Day 2During the flight, cross the international dateline, an imaginary line on the surface of the earth that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and defines one calendar day from the next. Crossing the international dateline to New Zealand you lose a day (which you gain upon your return).
Auckland
Day 3Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, often referred to as the "City of Sails". Upon arrival and after clearing customs, meet your driver who will transport you to your accommodation. After settling in be sure to visit the highlights of the city, take a stroll around Auckland's vibrant waterfront or do a bit of shopping on Queen Street. This evening meet your guide and fellow travellers for a program orientation before visiting the Skytower and the Orbit restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Dinner
included
Auckland City Hotel or similar
Rotorua
Day 4After breakfast check out of the hotel and depart for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. A local guide will take you on a walking tour of this most famous natural wonder. Learn about the Maori Chiefs that first discovered the land and caving history prior to a meandering boat ride under the thousands of Glowworms that light up the cave ceiling. Continue towards Rotorua for a journey into Hobbiton, the beautiful piece of Waikato farmland that was transformed into "The Shire from Middle-Earth" for The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings films. Your tour starts with a picturesque drive through a 1,250-acre sheep farm with spectacular views across the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through a twelve-acre site recounting fascinating details of how The Hobbit holes, Mill and other structures were created.
Breakfast-
included
Sudima Lakefront Hotel or similar
Rotorua
Day 5Not only are you in the "Geothermal Capital of New Zealand" but Rotorua is the "Cultural Capital," today will be a day to experience the best of both! This morning visit Te Puia Geothermal Wonderland. A colorful valley shaped by volcanic activity. Here you will see the Pohutu Geyser that erupts once or twice every hour to a height of 100 feet. Stroll through the 500 bubbling mud pools and streaming hot springs, visit the Kiwi House to view the iconic native bird, and learn about weaving as well as bone carving at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. This evening visit the Mitai Maori Village. Experience a traditional Maori welcome followed by a time of interaction with the local people as you learn about their culture. Enjoy a Hangi dinner, a buffet feast having been cooked in an earthen oven. After this traditional meal the village people will accompany you through native New Zealand bush and point out some wetas (insects). The night will finish with a Maori dance performance, featuirng traditional storytelling.
Breakfast-Dinner
included
Sudima Lakefront Hotel or similar
Taupo
Day 6Today say hello to the North Islands favorite summer holiday destination, Lake Taupo! En route stop at Huka Falls, the most photographed natural attraction in the country. For alternate viewing perspectives take one of many available short walks throughout the area. Once in Taupo you will kayak along the lake to the famous Maori rock carvings. Towering 330 feet above the waters, these masterpieces of Maori culture are an impressive sight to see. Your experienced guide will inform you of the meanings behind the carvings and their significance to Lake Taupo and the Maori people.
Breakfast-
included
Suncorp Hotel Taupo or similar
Wellington
Day 7Set your compass to the south of the island, Wellington is your next destination. Your travels will take you through Tongariro National Park for great views of the three volcanoes. Keep an eye out for sightings of "Mt Doom" from the Lord of the Rings trilogies. Also roaming along this "Desert Road" are wild horses! Once you arrive you will have time to settle in at the hotel and explore the capital city.
Breakfast-
included
Mercure Wellington or similar
Wellington
Day 8This morning experience Wellington from new heights as you take a cable car ride from the heart of city center, up the hillside to the Botanic Garden perched high above the city. The Gardens feature a large Victorian-style glasshouse, the Begonia House, and the award winning Lady Norwood Rose Garden. Stroll along the Sculpture Trail and then visit the Cable Car Museum. This afternoon continue to explore Wellington at your leisure. Suggested is a tour of the Te Papa Museum with its several floors of 2,500 ancient artifacts. Tonight rejoin the group for an after-hours tour of the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary. This fully fenced urban eco sanctuary houses 18 species of native wildlife that have been reintroduced to the area - six of which were absent from the mainland for over a century. Hear the evening birdsong as you explore the valley by torchlight. An experienced guide will lead you on a search for some of the more unique species of Wellington's native forest.
Breakfast-
included
Mercure Wellington or similar
Nelson
Day 9Start the day early on the Interislander Ferry. Say farewell to the North Island as you sail over the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton. Enjoy the amazing and picturesque Marlborough Sounds on what has been named one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. The Interislander will take you to the top of the South Island, make your way through this world-renowned wine region and arrive in Nelson. Famous for its incredible wines and cuisine, Nelson is the place to be for a fancy dinner. Once settled into your accommodation you will experience the delight of an award winning dinner and wine tasting at a local winery.
Breakfast-Dinner
included
Alpine Lodge Nelson or similar
Nelson
Day 10Today spend the day in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Abel Tasman is the youngest national park and also the smallest but one of the most scenic. Some of the birds that frequent the park are petrels, shags, penguins, gulls, terns, and herons. Possums, wild pigs, deer, and goats also frequent the area. Various trekking tracks within the park are world renowned.
Breakfast-
included
Alpine Lodge Nelson or similar
Franz Josef
Day 11Today, follow the winding Buller River as it flows through the Buller Gorge to the west coast. Continue to Tauranga Bay to observe the fur seal colony before arriving in Punakaiki. Stroll around the famous Pancake Rocks, the stratified limestone formations which look like petrified pancakes, where undersea caverns and blowholes create spectacular water spouts. Afterwards continue your coastal route to Franz Josef, a quiet little town famous for its awesome scenery. Beyond towering mountains is the gorgeous Glacier Country. This evening relax at the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools.
Breakfast-
included
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef or similar
Wanaka
Day 12Start the day with a hike through the Franz Josef Valley. Hike the ancient path where the glacier once stood through lush rainforest and alongside the Waiho River. Discover the legends and history of the glacier and learn about the Flora and Fauna you encounter on your way. After a brief climb you will be rewarded with views of the glacier's constantly changing terminal face. Afterward be sure to visit the Te Koha Carve Your Own Studio for some hands on fun. Using locally soured jade carve your own personalized souvenir. No artistic skill is necessary as much instruction is provided during this optional activity, at your own expense. This afternoon transfer to Wanaka, a beautifully picturesque town at the gateway of the Southern Alps' Mount Aspiring National Park.
Breakfast-
included
Wanaka Hotel or similar
Te Anau
Day 13Another magical day awaits you as you travel into Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound. Stop at Lake Te Anau before traveling through the Homer Tunnel, an engineering feat of its time. Upon entering Milford Sound there will be short walks to explore the surrounding area before boarding a spectacular catamaran for an informative nature cruise around the Fiord. Marvel at the towering cliffs dotted with hanging beech trees while exploring the coastline in search of dolphins, seals and in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguins.
Breakfast-
included
Distinction Hotel Te Anau or similar
Queenstown
Day 14With the "Remarkables" towering around Queenstown, clear blue skies and the gorgeous Lake Wakatipu at your doorstep, it's no wonder this town is the most loved holiday destination on the South Island. Schedule activities of your choosing. Queenstown is dubbed the "Adventure Capital of the World" because of the variety of exciting, unique activities available in the region. Options include bungee jumping, skydiving, ATV tours, jet boat rides, and much more!
Breakfast-
included
Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar
Queenstown
Day 15This morning step aboard the iconic steamship TSS Earnslaw for a cruise on Lake Wakatipu. The leisurely 90-minute cruise across the lake showcases some of Queenstown's spectacular alpine scenery while offering you plenty of time to explore a piece of Queenstown's living history - the 103-year-old TSS Earnslaw. Once you arrive at the base of the mountain, Walter Peak, you will participate in various activities at the Walter Peak High Country Farm. Help feed some sheep and deer as well as marvel at the sheep shearing, and farm dogs as they round up the animals. Take the Earnslaw back to the town center. This evening ride a gondola to the top of Bob's Peak for a farewell dinner while taking one last look at the gorgeous scenery below.
Breakfast-Dinner
included
Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar
Depart
Day 16Today take a flight to Auckland for connection to your international departure.
Breakfast-
included
Pricing
Print Pricing11 Travelers
Land Cost
$7,295 - Jul 1, 2020 - Sep 30, 2021
$7,555 - Oct 1, 2021 - Sep 30, 2022
Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
16 Travelers
Land Cost
$6,855 - Jul 1, 2020 - Sep 30, 2021
$7,155 - Oct 1, 2021 - Sep 30, 2022
Book 15 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Carbon Offset
- Full time guide for the duration of your program
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.
Prices are valid for travel from Jul 1, 2020 - Sep 30, 2021. Holiday surcharges may apply.
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & 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
Print ResourcesSuggested Packing List
To help you get ready for your expedition, below is a suggested packing list. You may find many of these items in our Gear Store, plus many clothing and accessory items.
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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