All Inclusive Kiwi Spirit Trail Through New Zealand

Upon arrival at Auckland International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our local representative and escorted to your hotel in the heart of the city. After check-in, take some time to unwind from your journey and settle into the relaxed Kiwi pace of life.

The rest of the day is at your leisure. You may choose to relax at your hotel or step out to explore Auckland – New Zealand’s vibrant “City of Sails.” Discover its sparkling harbours, bustling waterfront promenades, and chic cafes, or take a stroll up to the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline. 

Enjoy a restful overnight stay in Auckland, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Today, immerse yourself in the dynamic charm of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, often called the “City of Sails” for its sparkling harbours and nautical spirit. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower, an architectural marvel soaring 328 metres above the city. Take in sweeping 360-degree views that stretch from the shimmering Waitematā Harbour to the distant volcanic hills. For the adventurous, optional activities like the SkyWalk or SkyJump offer a thrilling perspective from dizzying heights.

Next, head to the picturesque Viaduct Harbour, a lively waterfront precinct lined with world-class restaurants, elegant bars, and luxury yachts. Feel the city’s coastal energy as you stroll along the marina or enjoy a coffee with views of bobbing sailboats and modern skyline reflections. Your journey continues with a stop at the stately Auckland War Memorial Museum, located in the tranquil Auckland Domain. Here, discover a rich tapestry of New Zealand’s natural history, Maori culture, and wartime legacy. The museum’s immersive exhibitions and traditional cultural performances offer a meaningful connection to the soul of Aotearoa. 

In the afternoon, venture beneath the waves at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium – an innovative marine attraction housed in former stormwater tanks on the city’s waterfront. Wander through transparent tunnels surrounded by sharks and stingrays, encounter vibrant coral reefs, and witness adorable King and Gentoo penguins in a sub-Antarctic habitat.

After a full day of discovery, return to your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure perhaps dine at one of Auckland’s acclaimed restaurants or simply relax and take in the city lights. 

Overnight stay in Auckland, where urban adventure meets coastal serenity.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your scenic journey south toward Rotorua, a destination known for its bubbling geothermal landscapes, rich Māori heritage, and serene lakeside beauty. Along the way, enjoy a memorable stop at the Waitomo Caves, one of New Zealand’s most fascinating natural attractions.

Explore the impressive limestone caverns on a guided tour as you walk through chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Then, board a silent boat and glide through the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the darkness above, creating a surreal and starlit underground experience. After this unforgettable visit, continue driving through lush countryside to reach Rotorua, where nature, culture, and relaxation come together effortlessly. 

Upon arrival, treat yourself to a rejuvenating soak at the renowned Polynesian Spa. These naturally heated mineral pools, set beside Lake Rotorua, offer a peaceful retreat that soothes both body and mind. Check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure, either relaxing or taking a gentle walk along the lakefront. 

Overnight stay in Rotorua, a place where the earth breathes and culture comes alive.

Today, enjoy a full day immersed in the cultural and natural wonders of Rotorua, a region where New Zealand’s geothermal energy and Maori heritage come alive. Begin your morning with a visit to the Agrodome, one of Rotorua’s most beloved attractions. Here, enjoy an entertaining and educational farm show that showcases New Zealand’s rich agricultural traditions. Watch skilled sheepdogs in action, witness live sheep shearing, and gain a fun, hands-on insight into rural Kiwi life.

The experience is both lively and engaging for visitors of all ages. Next, head to Te Puia, located within the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as you explore steaming geysers, bubbling mud pools, and mineral terraces that seem to rise from another world. The highlight is the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, which erupts up to 30 metres high several times a day. 

While at Te Puia, delve into the rich heritage of New Zealand’s indigenous people at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Learn about traditional carving, weaving, and Maori customs that have been passed down through generations. The cultural experience offers a deeper connection to the stories and spirit of Aotearoa. After a day filled with discovery, return to your hotel and unwind at your leisure. 

Overnight stay in Rotorua, where the earth speaks and traditions thrive.

This morning, board your flight to Christchurch, often referred to as the Garden City for its stunning parks, tree-lined avenues, and scenic waterways. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Begin your Christchurch experience with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre, one of the city’s most unique attractions.

Enjoy a fascinating glimpse into life on the frozen continent through interactive exhibits, simulated snowstorms, and thrilling all-terrain Hagglund rides. Don’t miss the chance to meet the adorable Little Blue Penguins, rescued and cared for at the centre’s penguin rescue habitat.

Later, take time to explore Christchurch’s beautifully regenerated city centre, where historic charm blends with contemporary design. Stroll through the tranquil Botanic Gardens, enjoy a walk along the Avon River, or relax at one of the inviting riverside cafés. You may also choose to admire the city’s innovative architecture and colourful street art that reflect its inspiring post-quake revival. Return to your hotel in the evening. 

Overnight stay in Christchurch, where nature, innovation, and heritage create a truly welcoming atmosphere.

Today, set off on a breathtaking journey through the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, travelling from Christchurch to Queenstown with a memorable stop at the iconic Lake Tekapo. Drive across the Canterbury Plains, a vast and picturesque region of rolling farmland framed by distant snow-capped peaks. As you approach Lake Tekapo, be captivated by the lake’s striking turquoise waters, a colour created by finely ground glacial rock suspended in the water.

Visit the charming Church of the Good Shepherd, perched on the lakeshore, offering postcard-perfect views and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a moment to soak in the crisp alpine air, admire the Southern Alps rising in the distance, or visit the Mount John Observatory area for panoramic views of this serene landscape. 

Continue your scenic drive through the rugged beauty of the Lindis Pass and Central Otago’s dramatic landscapes before arriving in Queenstown, a lively alpine resort town nestled beside Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. 

Overnight stay in Queenstown, a place where adventure meets elegance, and nature takes centre stage.

Today, embark on a full-day journey to one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders – Milford Sound, located deep within the spectacular Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a scenic drive through dramatic alpine landscapes, passing mirror-like lakes, lush rainforests, and rugged mountain passes. Highlights along the route may include Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, and the impressive Homer Tunnel, which leads you into a hidden world of glacial-carved beauty.

On arrival at Milford Sound, board your cruise vessel for an unforgettable voyage through the majestic fjord. Sail past towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen Falls, and spot local wildlife such as fur seals, dolphins, or even the rare Fiordland crested penguin. The serene waters and misty peaks create a scene that feels both powerful and peaceful. After the cruise, return to Queenstown by road, taking in the breathtaking scenery once more. 

Overnight stay in Queenstown, reflecting on a day spent immersed in one of nature’s finest masterpieces.

Begin your day with a visit to the enchanting village of Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved gold rush settlement nestled beneath the peaks that surround the Arrow River. Stroll along its tree-lined streets, browse charming boutiques and galleries, and step back in time at the Lakes District Museum, which tells the story of the town’s 19th-century gold mining heritage. The tranquil atmosphere and autumn-coloured landscapes make Arrowtown a delight in every season.

Return to Queenstown, where the adventure continues with a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola. Ascend to the top of Bob’s Peak and take in breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding alpine ranges. At the summit, you can relax with a drink, capture spectacular photos, or enjoy a ride on the luge for a fun downhill thrill. 

In the afternoon, you have time to experience optional adventure activities that have made Queenstown famous. Choose from jet boating, bungee jumping, ziplining, or simply unwind by the lakeside with a coffee in hand as you watch the energy of this vibrant alpine town unfold. 

Overnight stay in Queenstown, surrounded by soaring peaks, crystal-clear waters, and the spirit of adventure.

Depart Queenstown this morning and journey north toward the serene beauty of Wanaka, a lakeside town framed by snow-dusted peaks and known for its peaceful charm. Stop at the iconic Wanaka Tree, famously growing out of the lake and surrounded by a stunning alpine backdrop one of the most photographed scenes in New Zealand.

Enjoy a lighthearted visit to Puzzling World, a unique attraction filled with illusion rooms, a puzzling café, and a large outdoor maze that offers fun for travellers of all ages. From Wanaka, your journey continues through the spectacular Haast Pass, a scenic alpine route that winds through native forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountain terrain.

As you descend into the lush rainforests of the West Coast, the landscape shifts dramatically, revealing a world shaped by rivers, cliffs, and ancient glaciers. Arrive in Franz Josef, a small township nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps and home to the renowned Franz Josef Glacier. Surrounded by towering peaks and rainforest, the area offers a rare chance to experience glacial landscapes at low altitude. 

Overnight stay in Franz Josef or nearby, resting in the heart of New Zealand’s untamed wilderness.

Today, begin your journey back to Christchurch, travelling through some of the South Island’s most breathtaking alpine landscapes. Wind your way across dramatic mountain passes, lush valleys, and braided rivers as you make your way from the wild beauty of the West Coast to the refined charm of the Garden City.

For a truly unforgettable experience, you may choose to take the iconic TranzAlpine Train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Traverse the mighty Southern Alps, passing through native beech forests, deep gorges, and rolling farmland, all while enjoying panoramic views from the comfort of your seat. 

Upon arrival in Christchurch, check in to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in New Zealand at your leisure. You may wish to take a gentle evening stroll through the Botanic Gardens or enjoy dinner at one of the city’s stylish restaurants as you reflect on the unforgettable journey behind you. 

Overnight stay in Christchurch, preparing for your departure the following day.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Christchurch International Airport for your onward flight. As your journey comes to an end, you leave with unforgettable memories of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We hope your adventure has been truly enriching and look forward to welcoming you back again.