Day 1 – Arrive in Auckland
Arrive in Auckland and spend the day exploring the city’s iconic attractions. Visit the Sky Tower, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Viaduct Harbour, and Mount Eden for panoramic city views. Finish the day with dinner overlooking the waterfront while enjoying Auckland’s vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2 – Auckland to Rotorua
Drive south through the rolling hills of the Waikato region to Rotorua. Visit Te Puia Geothermal Park to witness steaming geysers, bubbling mud pools, and geothermal landscapes. Learn about Māori traditions through cultural performances before relaxing in the famous Polynesian Spa, overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Day 3 – Rotorua to Tongariro National Park
Leave Rotorua and stop at the spectacular Huka Falls, where thousands of litres of water rush through a narrow volcanic gorge every second. Continue to the shores of Lake Taupō before driving to Tongariro National Park. Spend the afternoon exploring short walking trails around volcanic landscapes, lava fields, and alpine viewpoints while learning about the park’s unique geology and cultural significance.
Day 4 – Tongariro to Queenstown
If visiting during the warmer months, begin the day by completing the world-famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of New Zealand’s best day hikes. Pass emerald volcanic lakes, steaming vents, ancient lava fields, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Queenstown. Upon arrival, enjoy a peaceful evening exploring the lakeside promenade and vibrant town centre.
Day 5 – Queenstown Adventure Day
Spend an action-packed day enjoying Queenstown’s famous outdoor adventures. Choose from jet boating through narrow canyons, bungee jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, skydiving over Lake Wakatipu, ziplining through native forest, or mountain biking on scenic trails. Visitors seeking a slower pace can ride the Skyline Gondola, relax in Queenstown Gardens, or take a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu.
Day 6 – Queenstown to Milford Sound
Depart early for an unforgettable journey through Fiordland National Park. Travel past Mirror Lakes, the Homer Tunnel, and dramatic alpine landscapes before reaching Milford Sound. Board a scenic cruise that passes towering cliffs, rainforest-covered mountains, and waterfalls plunging hundreds of metres into the fjord. Watch for dolphins, seals, and penguins before returning to Te Anau in the evening.
Day 7 – Te Anau to Wanaka
Drive north through Central Otago’s spectacular landscapes towards Wanaka. Along the route, pass vineyards, mountain ranges, and crystal-clear lakes. Upon arrival, visit the famous Wanaka Tree, stroll along the lakefront, browse boutique shops, or relax at one of the town’s many cafés while enjoying beautiful alpine scenery.
Day 8 – Wanaka to Aoraki / Mount Cook
Travel through Lindis Pass and the Mackenzie Basin to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Stop at Lake Pukaki, known for its brilliant turquoise waters and stunning views of New Zealand’s highest peak. Spend the afternoon hiking the famous Hooker Valley Track, crossing suspension bridges and glacial rivers before reaching breathtaking views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Hooker Glacier.
Day 9 – Mount Cook to Christchurch
Continue your journey through the Mackenzie Basin, stopping at the beautiful Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and admire the surrounding mountain scenery. Arrive in Christchurch and spend the afternoon exploring the Botanic Gardens, Riverside Market, and the revitalized city centre before enjoying your final evening in New Zealand.
Day 10 – Departure from Christchurch
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before exploring Christchurch’s cafés, boutique shopping streets, or historic Arts Centre. Transfer to Christchurch International Airport for your onward journey.