Breathtaking New Zealand

Overview
Discover the emerald-green landscapes, thermal springs, and hot geysers of the North Island, then journey to the South Island with its snow-capped mountains, shimmering glaciers, and sparkling lakes on this holiday showcasing New Zealand’s natural wonders and fascinating cities.

Highlights

• Just You Tour Manager as your host
• Scheduled flights from Heathrow with Singapore Airlines
• Use of an airport lounge in the UK
• 16 nights in 3 to 4-star hotels plus 3 nights in flight
• 19 meals: 16 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
• Welcome & farewell drinks
• Specialist Local Guides
• Overseas transfers & other transportation
• Porterage
• Dedicated Just You representative to greet you at all UK airports

Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: UK to Singapore
Fly to Singapore, arriving on day 2. Get to know your travelling companions over a drink at our hotel this evening.

Day 3: Singapore
Highlights of Singapore include Merlion Park, home to the iconic Merlion statue, and the Thian Hock Keng Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. We’ll see all of this and more on our included morning sightseeing tour with a Local Guide.

Day 4: Singapore to Auckland
There’s plenty of time to explore Singapore at your own pace today before we take an overnight flight to Auckland, New Zealand.

Day 5: Auckland
We arrive in Auckland today. There’s time to rest after your flight before we gather as a group for dinner this evening.

Day 6: Auckland
Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is situated on the North Island in the Hauraki Gulf. We’ll admire its spectacular skyline on an included tour this morning, which covers the must-see sights. Later, you’ll have time to explore the city further with your fellow travellers.

Day 7: Rotorua
The warm, emerald-green North Island was shaped by the fire of volcanoes, and evidence of this remains in the thermal springs surrounding Rotorua. En-route, we journey through the dairy-rich Waikato farming region and visit the world-famous Waitomo Caves to explore the fascinating glow-worm grotto with a Local Guide. You can also choose an optional flight over Mount Tarawera Volcano, landing at the site of the 1886 eruption (helicopter option) or take off and land on water (float-plane option).

Day 8: Rotorua
Today, you have the option to join a tour of Hobbiton, the location created for the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films. Alternatively, take an optional excursion to Rainbow Springs to see the rare kiwi bird and enjoy regional wines. In the evening, join an optional Maori concert and a traditional Hangi meal, where food is cooked by steam underground using a centuries-old method.

Day 9: Napier
Visit Te Puia Thermal Reserve to witness boiling mud pools and spouting geysers. We’ll pass through the Wairakei Valley and stop at Lake Taupo before arriving in Napier, known for its Art Deco architecture and ideal grape-growing climate. We’ll explore Napier on foot and enjoy a group dinner.

Day 10: Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, lies at the southern tip of the North Island. We’ll enjoy an orientation tour upon arrival, highlighting the city’s main sights.

Day 11: Wellington
Today is free for you to explore Wellington with your travelling companions. Consider taking the cable car to the Botanical Gardens or visiting Te Papa Museum for insight into New Zealand’s history and art.

Day 12: Christchurch
We set sail for the South Island today. After arriving, we’ll drive to Christchurch, often referred to as the most English city outside of England, passing the stunning Kaikoura coast along the way.

Day 13: TranzAlpine
Embark on the TranzAlpine train journey, which offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Southern Alps and majestic gorges. At Arthur’s Pass, we rejoin our coach and continue south to the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier regions. You can opt for a helicopter flight to land on the glacier for a closer view.

Day 14: Queenstown
Travel through Westland National Park, passing scenic lakes and rivers, to Queenstown, known for its summer and winter resorts. You can choose an optional Kawarau Jet Boat ride, or join an optional Skyline Gondola ride for stunning views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a dinner in the restaurant at the top of the gondola.

Day 15: Milford Sound
Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful locations, is the highlight of today’s tour. After a scenic drive through Fjordland National Park, we’ll enjoy a cruise on the Sound (weather permitting). Lunch is included.

Day 16: Queenstown
Explore Queenstown with your fellow travellers or opt for an exhilarating Dart River Jet Boat ride, bush walk, and four-wheel drive experience. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu and a gourmet barbecue dinner at Walter Peak’s Colonel’s Homestead.

Day 17: Omarama
Travel through the gold mining town of Arrowtown to the Mount Cook region. An optional scenic flight over the Southern Alps and glaciers offers a unique perspective on New Zealand’s highest mountains.

Day 18: Christchurch
After a scenic drive through Burkes Pass and Lake Tekapo, we arrive back in Christchurch, where we’ll have an orientation tour of the city. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell drink.

Day 19: Christchurch to UK
We’ll transfer to the airport for our return flight to the UK.

Day 20: UK
Arrive back in the UK today.

This tour offers an immersive experience of New Zealand’s natural beauty, from volcanoes and glaciers to lush valleys and stunning coastlines. With a mix of guided tours, optional activities, and plenty of time to explore, this is the perfect way to discover the wonders of New Zealand.