Day 1 – Arrive in Auckland
Arrive at Auckland International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Spend your first day exploring New Zealand’s largest city, beginning with a walk around the vibrant Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, Waitematā Harbour, and nearby volcanic islands. Continue to the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand’s rich Māori heritage and natural history. In the evening, stroll along Queen Street, browse local shops, and enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the harbour.
Day 2 – Auckland to Waiheke Island
Take a scenic ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island, renowned for its vineyards, olive groves, beautiful beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Spend the day visiting award-winning wineries where you can sample premium New Zealand wines while enjoying panoramic coastal views. Explore Oneroa Village with its boutique galleries, artisan shops, and cafés before relaxing at Oneroa Beach or Palm Beach. Those interested in nature can also enjoy one of the island’s coastal walking trails before returning to Auckland by ferry in the evening.
Day 3 – Auckland to Queenstown
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Queenstown, often referred to as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Upon arrival, explore the picturesque lakeside town surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range. Ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding alpine landscape. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Queenstown Gardens, browsing boutique stores, and enjoying the lively atmosphere along the waterfront.
Day 4 – Explore Queenstown & Gibbston Valley
Spend the day discovering everything Queenstown has to offer. Adventure seekers can experience jet boating on the Shotover River, bungee jumping, skydiving, or paragliding. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely excursion to the nearby Gibbston Valley wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir vineyards. Visit local wineries for tastings, explore charming cellar doors, and admire the scenic countryside. Return to Queenstown in the evening to dine at one of the town’s renowned restaurants.
Day 5 – Queenstown to Franz Josef
Depart Queenstown and drive through the breathtaking Haast Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine routes. Along the journey, stop at Thunder Creek Falls, Fantail Falls, and the crystal-clear Blue Pools before continuing through lush native rainforests and along the rugged West Coast. Arrive in Franz Josef and enjoy a walk to the glacier viewpoint, where you can admire the glacier descending into temperate rainforest. In the evening, unwind in the naturally heated Glacier Hot Pools.
Day 6 – Franz Josef to Greymouth
Begin your morning with an optional helicopter flight or guided glacier walk for an unforgettable close-up view of Franz Josef Glacier. Continue north along the spectacular West Coast, stopping at Hokitika Gorge to admire its vivid turquoise waters. Explore the town of Hokitika, famous for pounamu (greenstone) carving, local art galleries, and artisan shops. Continue to Greymouth and enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the historic coastal town.
Day 7 – TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch
Board the world-famous TranzAlpine train for one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. Travel through lush river valleys, dramatic mountain ranges, deep gorges, and Arthur’s Pass National Park while enjoying panoramic views from the train. Upon arriving in Christchurch, spend the afternoon exploring the revitalized city centre, visiting the Riverside Market, New Regent Street, and the beautiful Botanic Gardens.
Day 8 – Christchurch to Kaikōura
Travel north along the scenic Pacific Coast to Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea. Join a whale-watching cruise to spot giant sperm whales, or choose a dolphin encounter for a unique wildlife experience. Stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway to admire dramatic coastal scenery and observe New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat. End the day by sampling freshly caught crayfish, a local delicacy for which the town is famous.
Day 9 – Kaikōura to Christchurch
After breakfast, enjoy a final walk along the coastline before driving back to Christchurch. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains. Upon arrival, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, or enjoy punting on the Avon River. Spend your final evening exploring the city’s lively restaurants and cafés.
Day 10 – Departure from Christchurch
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Christchurch. Visit the historic Arts Centre, browse local boutiques, or enjoy breakfast at Riverside Market before transferring to Christchurch International Airport for your onward journey.