New Zealand | Gardens, Culture and Natural Wonders

Activity Level:
Duration:
20 Days
Price:
From $9,725
Interests:

About this trip

With its rich volcanic soil and temperate climate, New Zealand boasts a botanic diversity that’s matched by the Kiwis’ passion for gardening. Discover a bower of beauty as you travel from the sub-tropical North Island to the sub-alpine South Island, visiting several acclaimed gardens, many deemed nationally or internationally significant by the New Zealand Gardens Trust. In a land of superlatives, the collections at Ohinetahi, Ayrlies, and Hamilton Gardens stand out, but so do the national parks, wineries, and Māori cultural sites you’ll celebrate in “the Land of the Long White Cloud.”

Highlights

  • Visit the celebrated collections of more than a dozen public and private gardens, parks, and reserves, including Christchurch Botanical Gardens, Hamilton Gardens, Ayrlies, Ōhinetahi, and Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush Native Botanic Garden.
  • Sample local wines, produce, and olive oil in the vineyards of New Zealand’s famed Marlborough region.
  • Learn about some of the country’s unique fauna at the National Kiwi Hatchery and Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Revel in the mirror-like beauty of Milford Sound amid towering cliffs in Fiordlands National Park on an overnight cruise.

Activity Level 2: Easy-Moderate

Participants should be able to walk at least 2-3 hours over some uneven and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty and should be able to ascend or descend 50 stairs consecutively. Physical activities typically last for at least 2-3 hours at a time. 

17 Travelers

$10,495

Land Cost

Group size

Book 16 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

22 Travelers

$9,725

Land Cost

Group size

Book 21 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

Single Supplement: $2195

What makes us different

Diverse ecosystems

See endemic, regional, and rare plants at public and private gardens, nature reserves, and other protected natural areas in locations across the globe

Behind the scenes tours

Learn how international gardens are managed during exclusive tours and meetings with garden directors and other horticulture experts

Expert guides

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

Marketing support and resources

We have all the tools necessary to help you plan, promote and sell your trip

Custom-tailored Trips

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

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart US
Day 1
Today, begin your journey from your home departure city - destination: Auckland, New Zealand!
En route
Day 2
Cross the International Date Line today.
Auckland
Day 3
Upon arrival at the Auckland International Airport, after clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be taken to your hotel by a local representative. Early check-in has been arranged for your comfort. Spend the day relaxing before joining your fellow travelers and specialist guide this evening for a welcome dinner at Orbit 360° Dining, a restaurant at the top of the Sky Tower with a commanding 360-degree view of Auckland and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Dinner included
Movenpick Hotel
Auckland
Day 4
Start the day by traveling west of the city to visit the stunning Totara Waters, a 2-acre subtropical garden set on the upper Waitemata Harbor. Development began in 1999 by Peter and Jocelyn Coyle, who oversaw extensive plantings of rare and unusual species. Then, visit Beverley McConnell's 12-acre country garden known as Ayrlies, one of the most celebrated gardens in New Zealand. Maple woodlands complement large ponds connected by a tumbling stream and edged in hostas and irises. There are collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and masses of old roses, as well as vines that twine through trees and over pergolas. Wandering paths lead to some surprises, and garden seats offer delightful vistas with distant glimpses of the sea. This evening, enjoy time at leisure.
Breakfast- included
Movenpick Hotel
Rotorua
Day 5
After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, travel through the rich Waikato countryside to Hamilton Gardens. The unique theme of Hamilton Gardens is "The Story of Gardens," which is explored through a series of five garden collections. Enjoy viewing the roses, as well as Camellia spp., Clivia spp., Xeronema spp., Niphidium spp., and Darmera spp., to name just a few. Hamilton Gardens was awarded the prestigious International Garden Tourism Award at the International Garden Tourism Network (IGTN) conference in France in October of 2014. From Hamilton, continue to Rotorua, the "Geothermal Capital of New Zealand." In the afternoon, relax at Polynesian Spa and enjoy everything from a massage to a soak in the natural mineral waters. Later tonight, have dinner on your own in Rotorua.
Breakfast- included
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Rotorua
Day 6
This morning, visit the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about New Zealand's renowned Kiwi conservation program while touring the hatchery, which has successfully hatched over 2,100 kiwi chicks. After a guided experience, explore the interactive Kiwi burrow where it is possible to see the life cycle of a Kiwi from egg to burrow. Have lunch on your own before visiting the Redwoods Treewalk experience; suspended high above the forest floor, encounter 245-feet-tall redwoods while taking eco-walks across suspension bridges and platforms intricately designed to honor and accentuate the stunning natural environment. Early in the evening, start your Maori cultural evening through insightful and meaningful cultural activities. After a traditional Maori welcome, enjoy a wonderful performance that showcases Maori stories of long ago before experiencing a Maori hangi - a traditional Maori style of cooking dinner in an earthen oven heated with rocks, which makes it a unique and tasty experience. Then, return to the hotel for overnight.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
New Plymouth
Day 7
This morning, venture across the rich Waikato farmland to Taranaki and its largest city, New Plymouth. The area is dominated by the perfect cone of Mount Taranaki, with New Plymouth being the largest city in the region and known for its wonderful gardens. After arrival and check-in at the hotel, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Breakfast-Dinner included
King & Queen Hotel Suites
New Plymouth
Day 8
Today, take in a city tour of New Plymouth, featuring the gardens and beaches of this unique town. Enjoy visits to three beautiful gardens, starting with Pukekura Park and its many displays. Continue to the historical Tupare, which has a rich variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, and much more and is now owned by the community through the Taranaki Regional Council. Lastly, take in the world-renowned Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust and its rhododendron and bush gardens, grass walks, mountain streams, and glass houses. Have lunch at the beautiful rainforest café in the center of the garden before returning to the hotel. Then, enjoy the remainder of the late afternoon and evening at leisure.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
King & Queen Hotel Suites
Wellington
Day 9
This morning, depart New Plymouth and travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. En route, stop at the amazing structure known as the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge to take in and photograph the stunning views of Mount Taranaki through the bridge's intricate arches. Then, make another stop en route to visit Otari-Wilton Bush Native Botanic Garden. This unique plant sanctuary comprising a forest reserve and botanic garden covers more than 247 acres and contains many threatened species. Some of Wellington's oldest trees are here, including an 800-year-old rimu, Dacrydium cupressinum. Walk along the magical treetop Canopy Walkway, 59 feet above the forest floor, or get down in the undergrowth on the Nature Trail. Tonight, enjoy dinner overlooking the beautiful harbor.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Copthorne Hotel
Wellington
Day 10
Begin the morning with a guided tour of Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the country's largest museum, with multiple galleries that house imaginative exhibits throughout the year and interactive experiences that explore the country's unique natural environment, the triumphs and tragedies of colonial history, and the culture and history of the Maori people. Accompanied by your guide, learn about New Zealand's rich flora and fauna and how the country's seismic history has influenced them. Among the museum's long term exhibitions is Te Taiao | Nature, where visitors can discover New Zealand's unique and fascinating wildlife through Maori knowledge. Natural wonders are also on display in Bush City, a living outdoor exhibition. In the afternoon, there will be some free time to enjoy the city before meeting back together and taking the twilight tour at Zealandia Te Mara a Tane. This fully fenced urban ecosanctuary is home to many species of native wildlife that have been introduced back into the area, several of which were absent from the mainland for more than 100 years. As a groundbreaking conservation project, the sanctuary has helped restore more than 500 acres of valley, reshaping Wellington's ecological identity. Join your guide on a special escorted walk after closing time as Zealandia transforms from daylight to twilight, where visitors can witness the sights and sounds of the valley at dusk, like birds returning to the sanctuary to settle into their nests, the beautiful evening sky, and the changing sounds of birds from day to night. Look for endemic species such as weta, glow worms, tuatara, and more. After approximately 2-and-a-half hours, travel back to the hotel to enjoy an evening on your own.
Breakfast- included
Copthorne Hotel
Blenheim
Day 11
This morning, take the Interislander Ferry from the South Island to the North Island. This 3-hour voyage across the Cook Strait has been described as one of the most beautiful in the world. It departs from the scenic Wellington Harbor and cruises into the Marlborough Region through the gorgeous Totaranui, or Queen Charlotte Sounds, before arriving into Picton - the gateway to the South Island. Enjoy lunch at Allan Scott Winery in the heart of Marlborough wine country, where you will have a wine tasting before a delicious meal made with local produce. After eating, take a stroll during a guided tour of the vineyard and gardens. Next, stop to see the native garden and olive grove at Hunter's Wines. You will have the opportunity to taste the locally produced oil before continuing to your hotel in Blenheim for a relaxing evening.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Christchurch
Day 12
Following check-out, start the day with a visit to Barewood, a classic potager garden where interesting color combinations using unusual herbaceous plants and shrubs can be seen in the different areas throughout the garden. Look for Malus spp., Wisteria spp., Clematis spp., Viburnum spp., Philiadelphus spp., Deutzia spp., Sambuscus spp., as well as Rosa and Iris spp. After your time at the garden, the journey continues to Christchurch, stopping en route at the Mona Vale Estate, a 13.5-acre garden with landscaped lawns gently rolling down to the Avon River. From there, visit the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, a showcase of exotic and indigenous plants established in 1863. Six specialist houses contain collections of tropical and temperate plants, cool greenhouse flowering plants, cacti, succulents, ferns, and alpine plants. There are a variety of gardens, which include the rose, rock, water, azalea, woodland, and fragrant gardens. After checking into the hotel, return to the gardens for dinner at the famous Curators House restaurant.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Christchurch
Day 13
This morning, travel out to Governors Bay to one of New Zealand's most celebrated and internationally known gardens, Ohinetahi. The coastal setting and mountainous backdrop attracted architect Sir Miles Warren, who designed the garden along with some family members. Ohinetahi shows clearly how architecture in the form of imaginative garden structures and well-chosen plants can enhance a beautiful natural environment. From there, travel to French Farm Winery, situated on the banks of the Waimangu stream. Established by artist Nancy Tichborne, the garden contains dramatic herbaceous borders forming a natural, colorful amphitheater full of tulips, Iris spp., daylilies, and Dahlia spp., depending on the season. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the winery before heading toward the last stop on the peninsula at Fishermans Bay Garden. Fishermans Bay Garden provides an opportunity to visit an idyllic garden of native and exotic plants while enjoying outstanding views of the Pacific coastline and the sounds of native birds, seals, and penguins in the bay below.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Aoraki / Mt Cook
Day 14
After checking out of the hotel this morning, begin the journey from Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, which takes you through the Mackenzie Basin to beautiful Lake Takapo. En route, stop at the market town of Geraldine, where you can taste some of the delicious pickles, chutneys, and cheese made by local producers at Barker's of Geraldine. Your first stop in Takapo is at the stunning Church of the Good Shepherd, which sits on the shores of Lake Takapo. This historic church has beautiful views over the lake and its surrounding regions. Travel along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Mount Cook Village, situated at the base of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Tonight, there is an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable stargazing experience with some of the darkest, clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere.
Breakfast-Dinner included
The Hermitage
Wanaka
Day 15
This morning, take the Glacier Explorer and cruise on the glacial Tasman Lake. Weave in and out of icebergs and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape of the area. Then, retrace your steps and travel south, stopping at The Gums, a 5-acre country garden featuring a combination of native and exotic plants, trees, and perennials. This has been a labor of love for the Nyhof family, with the goal to have color in their garden for 12 months of the year, which they have achieved. From here, it is a short hop to Wanaka Lavender Farm, where visitors can enjoy a walk through flowers, meet friendly farm animals, unwind over a cup of herbal tea and indulge in some lavender ice creams. The many fragrant and colorful gardens throughout the farm are ever-changing throughout Wanaka's four distinct seasons. Later, relax at the beautiful Edgewater Wanaka Hotel.
Breakfast-Dinner included
The Edgewater Hotel
Milford Sound
Day 16
Another 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. Your home tonight is the Milford Mariner, an overnight cruise. After settling in, cruise the length of Milford Sound, marveling at the towering cliffs, the beech trees hanging to the side of the cliffs, and the remarkable wildlife. Settle into Harrison Cove, where there will be time to take the tender craft to explore the coastline in search of penguins and nesting birds. Enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by a discussion with the nature guide about the local flora and fauna.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Milford Mariner Ship
Queenstown
Day 17
Enjoy a wonderful morning exploring a different arm of Milford Sound. At the port arrival, say a fond farewell to the crew on the Mariner, meet your driver, and retrace your steps to Te Anau for lunch and onto Queenstown where you will visit the Chantecler Garden of National Significance. The English garden contains almost 1000 Rhododendrons and azaleas as well as Magnolias, Camellias, Hostas, Hellebores and exotic large trees. Around the house is a formal garden with Topiaries, roses (over 300 of them), perennials, sculptures and fountain. The Mediterranean garden surrounds the pool area. A large Asian garden features over 200 hundred Japanese Maples and Ornamental Cherry trees, with a cascading waterfall and pond, where, in late Spring, masses of Peonies burst into color. The New Zealand native garden is large and contains a huge variety of indigenous plants - a stream and two ponds flow through the garden. The Meadow garden has almost an acre of wildflowers and perennial beds as well as a picking garden. You will arrive at your hotel in the early evening and have a free night to enjoy dinner at one of the many cafés and restaurants in the town.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Scenic Suites
Queenstown
Day 18
With the Remarkables mountain range towering over Queenstown, clear blue skies, and the gorgeous Lake Wakatipu at your doorstep, it is no wonder this town is one of the most beloved holiday destinations in the South Island. Schedule activities of your choosing for today. In the afternoon, gather together and take the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob's Peak to enjoy a buffet farewell dinner with amazing views of this gorgeous natural area.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Scenic Suites
Depart
Day 19
At the appropriate time this morning, you will be taken to the Queenstown International Airport for your flight(s) home.
Breakfast- included
Arrive USA
Day 20
Welcome home!
17 Travelers

$10,495

Land Cost

Group size

Book 16 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

22 Travelers

$9,725

Land Cost

Group size

Book 21 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

Single Supplement: $2195

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
  • Carbon Offset
  • Items of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa fees
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2027. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Passports must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp and must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned date of departure from New Zealand. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months' validity.

To enter New Zealand, U.S. citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA) prior to departure. Requesting an NZeTA costs NZD $17 through the free mobile app or NZD $23 if applying through the website. Allow up to 72 hours for processing, although many requests will be processed more quickly. To apply, you will need your passport, a credit card or debit card (Visa or MasterCard), an email address, and a photo of your face or a device that can take one. 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

Please note: Due to the fast-changing nature of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, the information below does not reflect any current COVID travel requirements for this destination. Please visit the U.S. Department of State or CDC Travelers’ Health webpages or consult your Holbrook travel specialist for the most up-to-date requirements.

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.

Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B for some travelers.

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

Insects

The CDC advises that some insects in New Zealand may be capable of spreading disease. The CDC recommends taking normal precautions against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

In wetter areas, particularly in Fiordland, sand flies can be pests but are not known to transmit disease and are effectively controlled by use of an insect repellent.

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.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

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

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Remember that New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, and seasons are reversed from those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program, and pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Weather conditions in New Zealand can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet weather at any time of year. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost or you may hand-wash items.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
  • Shorts/skirts
  • A combination of light- and medium-weight pants/trousers
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • 1-2 jackets or sweater/sweatshirts
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach or hot springs, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of your fellow travelers).
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • A travel pack of tissues

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport, NZeTA, and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks – Please make sure you have NO fresh food in your bag upon arrival in New Zealand. There is an instant fine of $400.00 if food is found. You may bring in dried food provided it is sealed. Please declare this food when you arrive.
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage.
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter, plug adapter, and chargers for electronics
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