18 Day Premium New Zealand Encompassed

Auckland

, New Zealand

Journey through New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring landscapes from Auckland to Queenstown

Overview

Dramatic peaks, glittering glaciers and geothermal wonders await on this 18-day Premium adventure through New Zealand’s north and south islands. With a passionate local leader to guide the way, you’ll experience a landscape that has been shaped by the elements over thousands of years.

Taste local wines at picturesque cellar doors and wineries, set out in search of kiwis, explore the mythical world of Hobbiton and explore the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro. From the pure spectacle of Milford Sound to the simmering geysers of Rotorua, this adventure is sure to blow you away.

Tour Inclusions

Meals

  • 17 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners

 

Accommodation 

  • Hotel (17 nights) Our best 4-star accommodation and the highest level of service

 

Premium inclusions

  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
  • Luggage transfer
  • Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
  • 24/7 on-ground support
  • Trips led by our most experienced and highest-rated local leaders

 

Included activities

  • Auckland – Welcome Dinner
  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer
  • Waiheke Island – Day Trip by Ferry
  • Waiheke Island – Winery Visits with Wine Tasting & Lunch
  • Hobbiton – Visit to the Lord of the Rings Movie Set
  • Hobbiton – Drink at the Green Dragon
  • Waitomo – Ruakuri Glow Worm Cave Visit
  • Rotorua – Visit to Te Puia Geothermal Area with Local Guide & Hangi Lunch
  • Rotorua – Ahua Gallery & Kiwi Conservation Centre
  • Rotorua – Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland
  • Tongariro National Park – Taranaki Falls
  • Wellington – Evening Cruise on Wellington Harbour
  • Wellington – Ferry Cruise through Marlborough Sound
  • Christchurch – Welcome Dinner
  • Greymouth – Monteith’s Brewery Tour & Tasting
  • Greymouth – Pounamu (Greenstone) Studio Visit
  • Christchurch – Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Lake Brunner – Nature Walk
  • Hokitika – West Coast Treetops Walk
  • Franz Josef – West Coast Wildlife Centre Visit with Ranger
  • Punakaiki – Rocks & Blowhole Visit
  • Franz Josef – Glacier View Walk
  • Makaroa – Aspiring Biodiversity Trust Lunch
  • Makaroa – Guided Flora and Fauna Walk with Local Ornithologist
  • Wanaka – Criffel Station Foraging & Lunch Experience with Local Chef
  • Gibbston Valley – Wine Tasting
  • Arrowtown – Walking Tour
  • Milford Sound – Day Cruise
  • Queenstown – Walter High Peak Country Farm visit and BBQ dinner
  • Queenstown – Lake Whakatipu Steamboat Cruise
Tour Highlights
  • Small Group size Min 1 – Max 12
  • Sip your way around Waiheke Island off the shores of Auckland during an Exclusive Experience, cellar doors to learn about their production methods, sample some seriously excellent wine and enjoy a winery lunch.
  • Explore the concepts, rituals and stories of ancient Maori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine in Te Pa Tu. A local expert will guide you in celebrating the abundant harvest and you’ll hear stories through haka, song and drama before a 2-course feast.
  • Be amazed by Tongariro National Park as you spend the day exploring its volcanic landscapes, then retire to your chateau-style Feature Stay where you can sit back and soak in views of Tongariro’s dazzling peaks.
  • Cruise the waters of iconic Milford Sound on a Premium day cruise, where you’ll enjoy drinks and canapes on board as you look out for the waterfalls, local wildlife and learn about the area.
  • Soak up one of the best parts of New Zealand’s South Island – it’s wine! During your Feature Stay in Gibbston Valley, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting, indulge in a 3-course dinner and watch the sunset over the mountains (maybe from the on-site hot tubs)!
Day by Day itinerary
Day 1 Auckland

Welcome to New Zealand! Your adventure of the volcanic North Island begins in Auckland – New Zealand’s most populated city, fringed with beaches, harbours, volcanoes and farmland. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, you might like to uncover the story of New Zealand rugby during an interactive All Blacks experience where you’ll learn about the heritage of the sport and find out what it takes to wear the famous black jersey. After your meeting, get to know your group over dinner at a local bistro in the heart of the city, championing New Zealand producers.

 Accommodation – M Social or similar (1 night)
Day 2  Auckland (Waiheke Island)
Leave the bustle of the big city behind and head offshore to Waiheke Island, famed for its sandy beaches and local wine. Board a ferry from Auckland – if you’re lucky, you may even see dolphins or orcas along the way. The day will be spent sipping your way around the island, stopping off at three unique wineries to learn about their production methods, and of course tasting the goods yourself. You’ll also enjoy an included lunch on the island, not to mention a few scenic drives with plenty of opportunities for photos. Return to Auckland in the late afternoon with an evening free for your own discoveries of the city.
 Accommodation – M Social or similar (1 night)
Day 3 - Auckland via Waitomo & Hobbiton to Rotorua

After breakfast this morning, hit the road and drive to the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves – an extensive underground network of tunnels and caverns decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and luminous glow worms. Join a local expert for an in-depth tour of the Ruakuri Cave, descending a spiral entrance to the world below. See the limestone formations, hear the roar of subterranean waterfalls and learn about the glow worms that light up the caves. Continue to Hobbiton, where the epic Lord of the Rings movies were shot. Take a tour around the set with a local guide, hear stories about the production of these iconic films, explore Hobbit holes and enjoy a drink (and maybe a delicious pie) at the mythical Green Dragon Inn. Finally, travel to Rotorua, where you’ll spend the evening.

Accommodation  – Millennium Rotorua or similar (1 night)
Day 4 - Rotorua

Wake up in Rotorua to the unmistakable scent of sulphur coming off the town’s many geothermal pools. After breakfast, visit to Te Puia – over 70 hectares of land within the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley is dotted with hot springs, mud pools and geysers. A local expert will take you on a walk to learn about these geothermal wonders, including Pohutu – the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere. Next, head to the Kiwi Conservation Centre where you’ll have the chance to observe the beloved nocturnal bird (the kiwi) in a darkened enclosure and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to protect them. Swing by the Ahua Gallery and watch culturally significant Maori carving and weaving demonstrations. Lunch today will be a traditional hangi feast cooked beneath the earth in the traditional style. Tonight, consider an optional tour of the geysers by night.

Accommodation – Millennium Rotorua or similar (1 night)
Day 5 - Rotorua to Taupo
Say goodbye to Rotorua and drive on to Taupo – sitting on the shores of Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, this is a popular and scenic town. On the way, visit Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, where you’ll walk through thousands of years of geothermal history and volcanic features, including New Zealand’s largest mud pool and bubbling basins bursting with vibrant colours. The rest of the day is yours to discover all that this picturesque part of the country has to offer. One of the best ways to enjoy the lake is to get on its waters – speak to your leader to find out about the sustainable sailing and cruising options available this afternoon. You might like to take a flight over the spectacular Tongariro National Park.
 Accommodation – Millenium Taupo or similar (1 night)
Day 6 - Taupo via Tongariro National Park to Ohakune
Today, uncover the natural wonders of Tongariro National Park, as spiritually significant as it is naturally beautiful. Your leader will guide you on a scenic two-hour walk to the Taranaki Falls – an impressive 20 m cascade tumbling over volcanic cliffs. Later in the day, head to your Feature Stay accommodation at the Powderhorn Chateau and settle in. The chateau is surrounded by the high peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro and the views are simply unbeatable.
Accommodation – Powderhorn Chateau (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Day 7 • Ohakune to Wellington
This morning, make tracks for Wellington – New Zealand’s trendy capital city. After settling in, hop aboard a private catamaran and get to know the city on an evening cruise around Wellington Harbour. Return to land after an hour and join your group for dinner at a waterfront restaurant – the perfect chance to reminisce about your North Island adventure.
Accommodation – Naumi Hotel or similar (1 night)
Day 8 • Wellington to Christchurch
This morning, check out of your hotel after breakfast and head to the South Island to begin the second half of your New Zealand adventure. Cross the Cook Strait on board a ferry, taking in some pretty unforgettable views along the way. Your introduction to New Zealand’s South Island sets the tone for the rest of the journey – pass through the iconic landscapes of the Marlborough Sounds as you cruise into Picton Harbour. Travel onward by private vehicle to Christchurch. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a free evening.
Accommodation – The Fable Christchurch or similar (1 night)
Day 9 • Christchurch
Enjoy a free day in Christchurch. This city has great food and drink culture and museums for all interests, so take it easy and fill your day with as much or as little as you choose. You’ll have a second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to welcome any new travellers joining you for the next leg of your adventure. Then, head to a tiny restaurant and natural wine bar that champions sustainability for a three-course dinner featuring produce from the Canterbury region.
Accommodation  – The Fable Christchurch or similar (1 night)
Day 10 • Christchurch / Greymouth / Punakaiki
Take a morning stroll with your leader around some of the landmarks of Christchurch. Then, set off for Punakaiki, driving through Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill – the spectacular mountain scenery may look familiar, as parts of The Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings movies were filmed here. After lunch in Moana, enjoy a short stop at Lake Brunner – the largest lake in the South Island. Spend the afternoon in Greymouth, stopping into a boutique studio to learn about the prized west coast jade known locally as Pounamu (Greenstone). Then, continue to Monteith’s Brewery, considered the original home of New Zealand craft brewing for a tour and tasting. Arrive at Punakaiki Resort by late afternoon – in Paparoa National Park, this resort lies next to Punakaiki Beach and the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
Accommodation – Scenic Hotel Punakaiki or similar (1 night)
Day 11 • Hokitika / Franz Josef
After breakfast, explore the Punakaiki Rocks and Blowholes before the drive to Franz Josef. Along the way, stretch your legs at the charming west coast town of Hokitika and enjoy an exhilarating treetop adventure on a walk through the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy. In the afternoon, take a private ranger-guided tour of the West Coast Wildlife Centre – home of the official breeding programme for the world’s rarest kiwi, the Rowi. Also keep an eye out for tuatara (a reptile endemic to New Zealand). Arrive in Franz Josef in the late afternoon, where you’ll have a free evening.
Accommodation – Rainforest Retreat Deluxe Tree Hut or similar (1 night)
Day 12 • Franz Josef
Begin your day with a self-guided walk to see the icy wonderland created by the Franz Josef Glacier – one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you may like to join an optional heli-hiking tour and get even closer to the glacier. Other optional activities include kayaking, a scenic cruise on Lake Mapourika or a soak in the hot tubs at Franz Josef.
Accommodation  – Rainforest Retreat Deluxe Tree Hut or similar (1 night)
Day 13 • Makaroa / Wanaka
Depart Franz Josef for the resort town of Wanaka – the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, located in the Otago region. Stop along the way at Makorora and visit the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust – an organisation that strives to protect and restore indigenous biodiversity. After lunch, take a guided flora and fauna walk with a local ornithologist and ecologist. Keep an eye out for endangered birds as you learn about how the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust is working to reduce predators and save some of New Zealand’s rarest species. Arrive in Wanaka by late afternoon and settle into your home for the next two nights – a homestead built on the site of a former sheep station. Located next to the resplendent Wanaka Station Park on the shores of Lake Wanaka, and a short stroll from Wanaka township, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy all this popular town has to offer.
Accommodation – Edgewater Hotel or similar (1 night)
Day 14 • Wanaka
Enjoy a sleep in this morning or start your day with a hike up Mt Iron for a view over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. Central Otago is a region well known for food and wine, and today you’ll visit the spectacular Criffel Station for a chef-guided tasting and foraging tour, followed by a delicious lunch.
Accommodation – Edgewater Hotel or similar (1 night)
Day 15 • Wanaka / Gibbston Valley
Soak up a free morning in gorgeous Wanaka, then take the short drive to Arrowtown – known for its heritage town centre and autumn festival, this leafy community is perfect to explore on foot. When you arrive, you’ll take a leader-led walking tour through the cute shops and cafes, then head on to your Feature Stay accommodation at Kinross Winery in the Gibbston Valley. This working vineyard near Queenstown features on-site hot tubs and mountain scenery. During your stay, you’ll have a wine-tasting session followed by a 3-course group dinner featuring local, fresh produce.
Accommodation – Kinross Winery (Feature Stay) (1 night) (1 night)
Day 16 • Gibbston Valley / Milford Sound / Queenstown
Today is all about the gorgeous scenery of the South Island! Say goodbye to the vineyard after breakfast and start your journey to the iconic Milford Sound – surrounded by mountains and, depending on the season and rainfall, hundreds of waterfalls, this place is well-acclaimed for a reason. When you arrive at the port, you’ll take a Premium day cruise to try to spot the local wildlife, waterfalls and amazing scenery from the water. Enjoy drinks and canapes on board, as well as in-depth commentary. After the cruise, head on to Queenstown for dinner.
Accommodation – Ramada Queenstown Central or similar (1 night)
Day 17 • Queenstown
Soak up a free morning and early afternoon in Queenstown, making the most of your time in this scenic city. Wander at your own pace, then head out in the late afternoon with your group. You’ll board the TSS Earnslaw – an iconic, century-old coal-fired steamship. Cruise along Lake Whakatipu to Walter High Peak Country Farm, taking in the scenery of the lake as you go. When you arrive, take a tour of the working farm, then sit down with your hosts for their famous gourmet barbeque dinner. Maybe say a cheers to an amazing adventure, then cruise back to Queenstown as the sun sets.
Accommodation – Ramada Queenstown Central or similar (1 night)
Day 18 • Queenstown
Your New Zealand adventure ends this morning after breakfast. As this trip spends little time in Queenstown, it’s recommended that you spend an extra day or two if you want to experience all the town has to offer. We will be happy to book additional accommodation for you, just get in touch ahead of time.

Terms & Conditions

Valid for Travel: Thursday 27 February, 2025 -
Thursday 20 May, 2027

PRICING

Tour departures vary in pricing based on seasonality.  ‘From Price’ is valid for 1st April 2025 departure

Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 15 (Milford Sound) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.

3.The Milford Sound Cruise is seasonal and weather dependent. Some departures may require a slight shift in itinerary to make sure the cruise is included. If the Cruise has finished for the season, the Feature Stay will instead be the Milford Sound Lodge.

4. This trip is a combination of two trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.

Tour is operated by Intrepid Travel – their booking conditions – https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/standard-booking-conditions

PRICE FROM
AU$14150
per person twin share
Trip Summary
● Duration: 18 days
● Starts: Various Thursdays from Auckland
● Ends: Various Sundays in Queenstown
● Trip Type: Small Group Premium Tour
● Accommodation: 4 star
● Transportation: Small Coach

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