Highlights of New Zealand

Welcome to Auckland!

Arrive any time. 

Check-in time at the hotel is 2 pm. The rest of the day is at your leisure to rest and recover in preparation for the next day when the tour begins. 

Opt to join us for dinner this evening.

*Please note that this tour departs Auckland early on Day 2. If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights. I am putting together a 2-night pre-tour package. Stay tuned for more information on this option. 

Optional Activities: 

Maritime Museum Visit (20 NZD)

Tour the museum’s seven galleries to learn more about New Zealand’s relationship with the sea. Be inspired by the country's most celebrated mariner, Sir Peter Blake, and his many accomplishments, and see maritime art that speaks to the sentiment of a nautical nation.

Waiheke Island Excursion (45-130 NZD)

Take a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).

Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Pre-Tour Experience  (121 USD)

As part of the boat crew, you'll work together with your teammates to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour in this competitive yacht. Either take the helm and participate or sit back and enjoy the spectacle - the choice is yours.

The earliest sail time will be 11 AM, please plan accordingly. You will report to the Explore Kiosk 15 minutes before departure, located inside Auckland's Viaduct Harbour at the end of Quay St, diagonally across from the entrance to the New Zealand Maritime Museum. 
Pre-booking required.

Drive to the lakeside town of Rotorua, situated over an active geothermal zone and known for its volcanic features and rich Maori heritage. Stop en route at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Take a boat ride through this spectacular underground realm to see thousands of flickering glowworms light up in the dark.

Included Activities:

Waitomo Glowworm Cave Excursion

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through 30 million-year-old caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves carved by rivers and time. Take in more than 136 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.

Visit Rotorua and opt to check out the geothermal area or go whitewater rafting. In the evening visit a Maori village for traditional ceremonies, a Hangi meal.

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST, DINNER

Included activity:

Maori Village Visit and Hangi meal with traditional ceremonies and entertainment.

Optional activities include:

Whitewater Rafting (109 NZD)

Get your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating white water rafting trip. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don't forget to paddle!

Hot Springs (30-50 NZD)

Soak tired muscles in the area's natural hot springs and let the mineral water work its magic. Rotorua is home to several amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters.

Zorbing (35-50 NZD)

Hop into a giant inflatable ball and take a thrilling ride down Mt Ngongotaha. This outrageously fun and bizarre ride is a must-do when in Rotorua, so don't miss out!

Rotorua Canopy Tours (169-229 NZD)

Experience life among the treetops of a Kiwi forest through this one-of-a-kind nature tour. Gain a whole new perspective on the plants, animals, and insects that call this environment home, and learn about conservation efforts to protect the region's subtropical forests. Opt to book the Original Canopy Tour (3 hrs) or the Ultimate Canopy Tour (3.5 hrs).

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

Enjoy the atmosphere in this relaxed but lively city. After an orientation walk, enjoy a free day to explore. 

Included Activities: 

Orientation Walk

Enjoy a brief walk with your guide. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs.

Optional Activities:

Te Papa Museum Visit (Free)

Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building.

Wellington Cable Car (4-7.50 NZD)

Zealandia (9-95 NZD)

Weta Workshop (50-90 NZD)

This 2 to 3-hour guided tour will give you a unique behind-the-scenes look at how the Weta workshop helps craft and create the imaginary realities of some of the world’s biggest films. Get so see creativity in action as the workshop crew members practice their trade and get up close and personal with props from The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and so much more!

Fly from the North to the South Island (flight included), stopping en route to the airport at a local winery for a wine tasting. Then travel to the seaside town of Kaikoura, known for its diverse marine life.

Opt to swim with dolphins or go whale watching during a free morning in Kaikoura before traveling to Hanmer Springs. 

Optional Activities:

Swimming with Dolphins (220 NZD)

Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. Depending on conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.

Scenic Flight (225 NZD)

Take in the stunning scenery while traveling across the Southern Alps to the rugged and remote West Coast before staying in the rainforest near the world's fastest-moving glacier.

Enjoy a free day to explore the area around Franz Josef. 

There are dozens of optional activities in the area to suit just about any budget and preference. Try heli hiking, scenic helicopter flights, skydiving, lake kayaking, or a hot pools visit.

INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

Optional Activities:

Franz Josef Kayaking (130-150 NZD)

Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views.

Hiking (Free)

Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views for which you’ll definitely want your camera on hand.

Helicopter Hike (695 NZD)

Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Cool!

Ice Explorer Guided Hike (Heli Transfer) (670 NZD)

The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind!

Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. With beautiful scenery and tons of activities, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the great night life.

INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

Optional Activities: 

Ziptrek (120-170 NZD)

Earnslaw Steamship Cruise (55-95 NZD)

Discover the breathtaking Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a 103-year-old traditional steamship. This 90-minute cruise highlights the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds Queenstown and lets you check out the views while relaxing on deck.

Scenic Horse Riding Tour (220 NZD)

Unwind on a scenic horse trek through Queenstown’s stunning scenery.

Vineyard Tour (210-230 NZD)

Enjoy the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound on a day cruise. Take in the waterfalls and wildlife, then return to Queenstown for the night.

INCLUDED: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Included Activity: 

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise

Cruise through the stunning Doubtful Sound, one of the most untouched, remote places in the world. The only way to get here is by boat across Lake Manapouri, then bus across Wilmot Pass to Doubtful Sound. Marvel at the steep cliff walls and cascading waterfalls, and keep an eye out for area wildlife: dolphins, penguins, seals, and a variety of birds. This isolated part of New Zealand is truly a special place!

Travel north through the center of the South Island to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, named after New Zealand's highest peak. Spend the afternoon hiking the region, taking in the alpine scenery. Learn more about mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the Visitor's Centre, before a short but scenic journey to Tekapo Village.

INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

Included Activities:

Aoraki/Mount Cook Visit

Aoraki/Mount Cook is both a village, a national park, and the name of New Zealand's highest mountain. Located in central South Island, the park includes a mix of rocks and glaciers, as well as alpine plants including the world's largest buttercup, the Mount Cook lily. Several short walks are rewarded with spectacular views.

Depart at any time. 

INCLUDES: BREAKFAST

• Comfortable 3 & 4-star accommodations with private, en suite bathrooms
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
• Private guide throughout
• Small group experience (maximum 16 people)  
• Internal flight between the North and South islands.
• Plenty of free time in Rotorua, Wellington, Franz Josef, and Queenstown
• Waitomo Cave Excursion
• Mitai Maori Village visit and Hangi meal
• Winery visit in Hanmer Springs
• Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
• Aoraki/Mount Cook Visit
• Delicious meals per the itinerary (8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinner) 
• Possible yoga/meditation, if/when the schedule allows

• International air
• Transfers outside of the included transfers for this trip
• Tips & gratuities
• Meals not expressly included in the itinerary (it is recommended you allow USD 515-670 for meals not included.)
• Alcoholic drinks not expressly included in the itinerary
• Additional/optional excursions beyond those included in the itinerary
• Travel Insurance (required by the tour operator). I can help you with this.
• Items and purchases of a personal nature
• Anything not expressly listed under inclusions for this trip

The trip cost is $4,999 (per person, double occupancy). There are two single rooms available, at an additional cost of $2,199.

DEPOSIT: A $500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot.

FINAL PAYMENT: Final Payment is due August 1, 2024.

CANCELLATION POLICY: All deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations made after final payment are nonrefundable.

Please note: A minimum of 12 travelers is required. It is recommended you do not purchase your flights until we have reached our minimum group number. If this trip is canceled due to a lack of participants (which is unlikely), all funds will be refunded. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE IS REQUIRED. All travelers must have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of USD 200,000. We also strongly recommend purchasing an all-inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well.

March marks the transition from summer to autumn in New Zealand. Temperatures can vary by a few degrees between the North and South Islands, but on average you can expect daytime temperatures between 59 - 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended. Due to limited space, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good-sized day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch, and a water bottle.

New Zealand weather can be quite variable, even in summer, and layers are recommended throughout the year.

Packing List

Cold weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Earplugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

Warm weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Due to the fast-paced nature of this trip, there may not be time for yoga most days. However, we will do our best to offer a yoga or meditation experience whenever/wherever possible.

There are no required vaccinations.

A New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is required, costing around $40, which can be purchased here.

That's what I'm here for! The best way to communicate with me is via email at  [email protected] with all your questions, and let's get you one step closer to your trip of a lifetime!

Also, you might find answers to a lot of your questions on our FAQ page, which can be found here.