Auckland shines as the commercial and cultural centre of New Zealand. It is situated on 50 islands and 48 dead volcanoes which make it unusual and breathtaking to behold. Stroll along the water, a hike on a volcanic island, or a cruise through the glorious harbour — just a few ways to absorb the delights of the city. This city has the largest Polynesian population in the world, adding to its cosmopolitan, dynamic appeal. High-end fashion houses, sophisticated restaurants and chic bars compliment the abundance of outdoor activities.

Suggested activities for Auckland

The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour I Explore Auckland I Full Day Fishing Charter (Private) I Hauraki Golf Conservation Cruise I All Blacks Experience

Travel to Hobbiton before arriving in Rotorua

World Famous: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

In the heart of New Zealand, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Hobbiton is located just outside of Matamata - in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region. Here you can visit such iconic Hobbit locations as Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill, and the Party Tree, with a guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films.

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to one of the Maori Villages should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs.
Spike your adrenaline at Velocity Valley Adventure Park on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving, or a giant swing reaching 130 km per hour. Alternatively, head up the Rotorua Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill.

Take a 90 minute domestic flight to Christchurch

Māori oral history and archaeological evidence suggests that people first inhabited the Canterbury area about a thousand years ago. These first inhabitants were moa-hunting tribes and this migration continued until about 1830. The first European landed in Canterbury in 1815 and Christchurch became a city by Royal Charter on 31 July 1856, making it the oldest city in New Zealand. Many of the city's original Gothic buildings dated from this period.

Christchurch, Known traditionally as “The Garden City”, is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and one of the world’s most unique destinations. Bordered by the Port Hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps as a majestic backdrop, allowing for a huge array of experiences all within just a few hours’ drive.

Suggested activities for Christchurch

Explore Christchurch I Visit Akaroa I Swim with Hector's Dolphins (or just watch) I The Tranzalpine Train I International Antarctic Centre

Today you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes Pass, you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo. Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mount Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier-fed turquoise blue color. Continue along the lake to your final destination, Mount Cook Village.

Standing tall at the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Mount Cook is a majestic peak that captivates the imagination of all who lay eyes upon it. Known as Aoraki in Maori, this grand mountain soars to an impressive height of 3,724 meters, making it the highest in the country. Its snow-capped summit is a sight to behold, glistening under the clear cerulean sky.

When the sun sets, Mount Cook National Park unveils another awe-inspiring spectacle—the sparkling night sky. Declared an International Dark Sky Reserve, this pristine region offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities.

Suggested activities for Aoraki/Mount Cook

Heli or Ski Plane Flight I Big Sky Star Gazing I Glacier Explorer Boat I Heli-Hike I Walk the Hooker Valley Track

Today, embark on a journey from the majestic Mount Cook to the vibrant town of Queenstown. Begin your day by bidding farewell to the awe-inspiring Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand. As you journey south, the snow-clad peaks of the Southern Alps gradually give way to the rolling hills and serene plains of the Mackenzie region. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the turquoise-hued Lake Pukaki, a sight that never fails to captivate visitors with its vibrant beauty.

Given the town's unique layout, the choice is yours — wander in the city heart, feel your pulse race on a thrilling jet-boat ride, hike up a mountain, soak up a lake view, or take a breather from urban life and head to the countryside to taste the region's celebrated wines like the richly full-bodied Pinot Noir. At the city's fringe, hop on a cable car to the mountain peak for a sweeping panorama, or settle in for a hearty traditional dinner.

Tracing the southern side of the lake, your gaze will catch the Remarkables — so named for the "remarkable" light effects that dance on their slopes. During the summer, their hues shift from mauve to deep red at sunset, while in winter, their snow-clad peaks present a sight that's nothing short of breathtaking.

Suggested activities for Queenstown

Arrowtown and Wanaka day tour I TSS Earnslaw Cruise I Shotover Jet Boat I Gibbston Valley Wine Tour I Skyline Gondola and Luge

Nature: Overnight Cruise

Explore the spectacular remote wilderness of Fiordland National Park, up-close-and-personal. Take a private tour to Milford Sound followed by an overnight cruise . You’ll be introduced to its incredible beauty aboard the Fiordland Jewel, a boutique catamaran, purpose-built to give guests a luxurious, once-in-a-lifetime scenic experience that you'll never forget.

Enjoy the wonderful drive along the Milford Road as you head back towards Te Anau. Crossing the rolling tussock lands, pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand. Following the lake north, the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach the adventure capital of Queenstown. Once you arrive in Queenstown transfer to Auckland by a domestic flight.