Southern Alps & natural wonders

Join us on an enchanting journey to the renowned Waitomo Glow-worm Caves! A knowledgeable guide will lead you. You'll embark on a captivating tour through these underground wonders. There, you'll encounter fascinating glow-worms. They light up the ancient limestone caves, which formed over 30 million years ago. Conclude your exploration with a serene boat cruise through the mesmerizing glow-worm grotto.

Next, we go to Matamata. It's the charming home of the Hobbiton Movie Set. The set is famous as the iconic filming location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton movies. Immerse yourself in Hobbiton's magic. Then, we'll continue our scenic coach journey to Rotorua.

This tour includes guided tours of the Waitomo Glow-worm Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set. It also includes comfy and scenic coach travel with informative commentary. Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off provided. Join us for an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery! Overnight stay in Rotorua.

Today, you'll have a full day to immerse yourself in the wonders of Rotorua. Today you’ll immerse yourself in the rich Maori heritage at Te Puia. Delve into the enchanting Te Puia geothermal reserve with entry included. Join a guided tour through the mesmerizing geysers and other thermal wonders, and be greeted with a traditional Maori welcome followed by a captivating cultural show.

If you're interested in culture, there you’ll discover the rich Maori heritage. You'll learn its history, dance, and craftsmanship. You'll also enjoy an authentic show. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland will amaze nature lovers, surrounded by geysers, mud pools, and colorful lakes.

And don't miss out on exciting outdoor adventures! It offers something for everyone. There are activities from hiking to mountain biking, white-water rafting, and zorbing. We recommend an optional activity, a tour of Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu Thermal Valleys**. Overnight stay in Rotorua.

*Optional half-day tour to Wai-o-tapu and Waimangu Thermal Valleys: Embark on an unforgettable half-day adventure through New Zealand's most breathtaking volcanic region. Experience the remarkable geothermal activity and marvel at the stunning volcanic landscapes of Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Waimangu Volcanic Valley on our highly acclaimed Geothermal Wonderland Tour. Witness the awe-inspiring eruptions of Lady Knox Geyser, explore colorful volcanic craters, and soak in the beauty of sizzling hot pools and boiling hot springs amidst lush rainforest and native birdlife.

Transfer from your hotel to Rotorua Airport with our convenient shuttle service. During the journey, we may make brief stops to pick up fellow travelers. Remember that the package includes your flight from Rotorua to Queenstown.

Upon arrival in Queenstown, proceed through the terminal to meet your Super Shuttle driver. The driver will transport you to your hotel. Once you are checked in, you will have free time to explore and enjoy the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Queenstown.

Discover the natural beauty of Milford Sound with a scenic coach ride from Queenstown and an unforgettable cruise on the fiord. Depart Queenstown, travel by coach past glacier lakes and into Fiordland National Park. Capture some memorable shots of Mirror Lakes or the ancient alpine forests at photo stops along the way.

Our coach will give you sensational views of the Southern Alps. Next, board your cruise in Milford Sound to explore the spectacular fiord. Venture out to the Tasman Sea while cruising past tumbling waterfalls, glacier-scarred rock walls and lush rainforests. Return to Queenstown by coach.

Note: This tour includes a full-day excursion operating daily between the specified dates. See scenic stops at Milford Sound. They include Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel. You can also explore Fiordland National Park.

Today, you have a free day to explore Queenstown. You can try bungee jumping from the iconic Kawarau Bridge, skydiving over breathtaking landscapes, or jet boating through the thrilling rapids of the Shotover River.

For a more relaxed time, hike scenic trails. You can also take a gondola to Bob's Peak, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the city and Lake Wakatipu. Additionally, consider cruises on Lake Wakatipu or indulge in wine tasting tours in the nearby Central Otago wine region. Explore the lively town center with its boutique shops, art galleries, and dining options, and delve into local history at the Queenstown Museum.

Don't miss the chance to catch live performances at the Queenstown Theatre. We also recommend our optional tours, such as a thrilling ride on the Shotover River* or a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu**. Overnight stay in Queenstown.

*Optional tour on the Shotover: Take a thrilling ride on the Shotover where you'll experience heart-pounding excitement as you navigate the stunning Shotover River.

**Optional tout across Lake Wakatipu: Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. This iconic steamship will take you to Walter Peak Station, where you can enjoy a fascinating farm demonstration and savor a delicious buffet lunch or dinner at the Homestead Restaurant, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

This morning, take an adventure into the majestic Southern Alps and get up close to Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Depart on a luxury coach and drive through some spectacular scenery towards Mount Cook.

Start with a drive through the rugged Kawarau Gorge that leads into the Cromwell region and its fruit orchards. Then, cross the Lindis Pass and experience the tawny tussock of the Mackenzie Country. Arrive at Mount Cook Village and explore the Mount Cook National Park and its majestic views (lunch at own expense). Overnight stay in Mount Cook Village.

This morning is free to spend at your leisure in the Mount Cook area. In the afternoon, board your coach and continue the trip towards Christchurch. Enjoy views of the crystal-clear lakes and the Church of the Good Shepherd, which sits in solitude on the foreshore of Lake Tekapo (depending on your accommodation, this may take place on a different day).

Continue through the Canterbury Plains before arriving at Christchurch, where you will be dropped at your hotel. Overnight stay in Christchurch.

Enjoy a leisurely day in Christchurch to explore at your own pace. You can visit the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, take a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River, or explore the vibrant Riverside Market for local foods and crafts!

To make your last day memorable, we recommend booking the City Triple Pass* for a special experience of the city's iconic sights. Overnight stay in Christchurch.

*Optional City Triple Pass: Embark on a journey aboard the iconic Christchurch Tramway, glide along the tranquil Avon River in a traditional punt amidst natural splendor, and ascend to the Christchurch Gondola for a breathtaking panoramic vista of the city.

It's time to bid farewell to New Zealand after an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to catch a flight back to the UK/Ireland. Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end your trip.*

*Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in the UK/Ireland the following day.