14 Days: The Best of New Zealand Roadtrip [ST-3489A]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Rotorua (2), Christchurch (2), Mt Cook (1), Dunedin (1), Te Anau (2), Queenstown (2)
  • US Domestic Flights and International Flights are not included as per your request (Please Check Quote for Inclusion)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Christchurch, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Accommodation
  • Car Hire - 8 Day Car Rental, Pick Up Christchurch Airport, Drop Off Queenstown Airport
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • Day Tours Included - Auckland: Deluxe Coach to Rotorua with Caves, Agrodome & Te Puia
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - Hometown to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Day 1 - International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland (Check quote for inclusion)

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

Day 2 - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

Day 2 to 4 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Enjoy your stay in Auckland’s tallest residential building with breathtaking bold views. Stretch out in the suite life beside Albert Park and inhale the sea air. You will feel at home in a downtown haven full of freedom and convenience. Take time to pause for a moment of ‘Wow’ as you walk through the lobby, a sleek century-old courthouse transformed for an impressive arrival. Once climbed by legendary French Spiderman Alain Robert, your towering hotel takes the meaning of ‘home away from home’ to new heights. Above it all, slide into a contemporary vibe and discover Auckland from the city centre. You have got culture, entertainment and the great outdoors on your doorstep!

Day 3 - Free Day to Explore Auckland

Visit one of Auckland’s many attractions.

Fly a kite or throw a Frisbee in the beautifully landscaped Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park. Critique a giant selection of both traditional and contemporary art at Auckland Art Gallery. Take a walking, swim or hike through any of Auckland’s 25 Regional Parks. Have a laugh at The Classic Comedy and Bar in Queen Street, New Zealand’s home of live comedy. Take the bus over to Eden Park, New Zealand’s largest stadium. In the evening you can join the dancing on K’Road and party on till the wee hours at one of the many nightclubs. Or maybe you would rather visit the trendy suburb of Ponsonby and enjoy delicious cuisine, superb lattes or cocktails if more to your taste. And if it is cafes, bars and restaurants you’re after, the Viaduct Harbour has a great selection.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand – Julian Apse

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Auckland Harbour Cruise

Visit a true thing of beauty and cruise the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour!



Head out on this one and a half hour tour to see the Devonport Naval Base, travel past the township and North Head, then cruise towards the iconic Rangitoto Island as you pass the historic Bean Rock lighthouse. You’ll pass under the Harbour Bridge twice and then off to Westhaven Marina to catch a glance at the viaduct harbour bustling with super yachts!



Daily at 10:45am & 1:45pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Auckland City Revealed

Experience the best sights of Auckland City in the morning.



Auckland is set on 52 dormant volcanic cones and between two harbours, the sparkling Waitemata and the brooding Manukau. Known as the City of Sails, it is New Zealand’s largest and busiest city. The morning tour is a journey of discovery designed to explore the history and sights as well as see how Aucklanders live and play.




Travel up Queen Street, through Auckland’s central business district, past the Auckland University and through the inner city park, known as the Domain. Continue on through the picturesque suburb of Ponsonby, with its historic buildings before heading over the Harbour Bridge to Auckland’s North Shore. Stroll on Narrow Neck Beach in historic Devonport. There is time here for a coffee before continuing up to the summit of Mt Victoria with its stunning panoramic views of Auckland City.

Travel back over the Harbour Bridge to Westhaven Marina, one of the largest marinas in the Southern Hemisphere. Then visit the Auckland Fish Market, before continuing on to the Viaduct Harbour.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bay of Islands Tour - Full Day

Marvel at spectacular coastal scenery including the Hole in the Rock, Cathedral Cave and the inner islands while aboard a luxury catamaran. Also see the historic Waitangi Treaty House and a ‘waka’ (Maori war canoe).

Travel north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy spectacular rural & coastal scenery enroute to the Bay of Islands via Hibiscus Coast and Whangarei. Bay of Islands is one of the most picturesque and popular vacation sites in New Zealand and was the site of the earliest contact between the indigenous population and European settlers. Take a trip into the past and visit such historical places as the Waitangi Treaty House, see a traditional Maori Meeting House and a huge ‘waka’ (war canoe), Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Flagstaff Hill and the oldest building in the country (Kemp House) along with the oldest Church. In the early afternoon at Cape Brett, board a luxury catamaran for your cruising adventure through game fishing waters as you cruise past the Cape Brett lighthouse to the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. The excitement grows as you make a passage through the Hole and then continue on to the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave. On your return journey relax and enjoy subtropical paradise views with your favourite drink as you meander through the inner islands back to Cape Brett which are world renowned deep sea fishing grounds where porpoise (dolphins) and schools of fish are frequently seen. With the Bay of Islands’ combination of great fishing, diving, sailing and other water sports with some of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites you will be sure to have fun!

Includes: Pickups from accommodations, admission to Waitangi Treaty House, a Cape Brett cruise and boxed lunch.

Photo Credit: Destination Northland

Insider's Tip: Auckland City Explorer Bus

Take a unique, fun and informative tour of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city on the Hop on Hop Off Auckland City Explorer Bus!

Nestled between two harbours, this beautiful and vibrant city has a diverse mix of culture and landscapes. Something for everyone – attractions and activities, shopping and eateries, events and adventure – you can explore it all this 24 hour Hop on Hop off bus pass.

Unique Vehicles with Fantastic Views: Discover the true magic of city sightseeing onboard our unique, classic and new, double decker buses. With a mix of open and closed top buses, you will ride in comfort and style, enjoying spectacular views from the top deck.

Entertaining ‘Live’ Commentary: Our friendly local guides provide a ‘live’ fun and informative commentary throughout your journey. Multi-lingual commentaries are also available on the central tour.

Hop-on Hop-off and Visit Auckland’s Best Attractions: As you circumnavigate the city, visiting historic landmarks and all the ‘must see’ attractions, you can hop on and off at your leisure to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Devonport Ferry Trip Visit this historic suburb and browse boutiques for unique gifts, indulge at a restaurant or cafe, go to the beach or climb North Head for harbour views. Tickets are valid for sailings between 9:00am-4:30pm Monday to Friday, and all weekend sailings.

Includes
-Red and Blue Tour Routes
-Devonport Ferry

Day 4 - Day Tour, Deluxe Coach to Rotorua with Caves, Agrodome & Te Puia

Experience New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage and the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, plus a trip through the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo, on this full day sightseeing tour by deluxe luxury coach.

Depart Auckland: Travel the main Southern Highway through small rural townships steeped in early pioneer history. Your host serves morning tea during this sector.

Waikato: Travel through New Zealand’s largest dairy and sheep farming province. See the small farming settlements on the outskirts of Hamilton City, as you travel towards King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves: Join a guided tour through this world-famous cave formation, climaxed by drifting silently in a boat through a glow worm cavern lit up with thousands of tiny glow worm lights.

Light Lunch: Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.

Rotorua: New Zealand’s highest city, 305 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, located inside the rim of a volcanic crater. An area of great geothermal activity where you will visit the following attractions:

Agrodome Farm Tour: An introduction to New Zealand farming, with a 45-minute tour of an authentic working farm in all-weather, all-terrain vehicles. Watch a sheep being shorn and hand-feed the animals.

Lake Rotorua: Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then travel through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.

Te Puia Institute (Maori Arts, Crafts & Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve): One of Rotorua’s most famous attractions. See woodcarving, weaving displays, Maori village and the thermal valley with the famous Pohutu Geyser, fumaroles, colourful silica deposits and boiling mud pools.

This tour ends in Rotorua.

Days 4 to 6 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your luxury accommodation is perfectly located on the edge of the CBD overlooking mystical Lake Rotorua. Just a brief stroll to the Rotorua town centre, Polynesian Spa and other key tourist activities.

Offering modern comfort, these rooms are decorated in inviting tones and hues providing our guests with an enjoyable and relaxing stay. Featuring marble bathrooms and in-room amenities including air conditioning, mini bar, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, internet access, Sky TV, personalised message & wakeup service, work desk, radio/alarm, hairdryer, in-room safe, iron and ironing board.

Day 5 - Free Day to Explore Rotorua

Enjoy some free time in Rotorua to explore this historic city!

Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland filled with a plethora of activities and attractions to check out. The region’s unique location is filled with hot pools, geysers, mud pools and geothermal activity.

Visit Waiotapu, where there are many sights to explore. Experience the Champagne Pool and waterfall filled with rich vibrant colours of the mineral salts, bubbling mud pools, craters, and Lady Knox Geyser when you visit. Arrive in the morning to see the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am. For a full day of relaxation, visit the hot mineral pools and treat yourself to a relaxing Polynesian spa treatment that uses the local products (like a Rotorua mud wrap or manuka honey facial). Go Zorbing! Roll down a hill in an inflatable globe in this truly unique experience. There are different tracks to roll down with up to three people in the globe. You can choose to roll down with water in the globe for a fun time splashing around. For the adventure seekers, try Skydiving, the adrenaline rush of the jump will have you accelerating at 200 kilometres/hour. All the great views of Rotorua are best seen from 15,000 feet above.

Photo Credit: Tourism Rotorua

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Polynesian Spa Adults Only Pools

Just for adults, this popular area offers seven hot mineral pools with views of Lake Rotorua.

The pools are fed with hot mineral spring water from two different springs.

Three cascading, marble-lined pools (38°C/100°F to 39°C/102°F), feature alkaline water, renowned for its natural antiseptic action due to the high sodium silica content.

The large deeper alkaline pool (38°C/100°F) is an excellent place to stretch out for some light activity. Historically it was said that those who bathe in the Rachel Spring water will be blessed with ageless beauty!

The three Priest Spa pools (39°C/102°F to 42°C/107100°F), offer special thermal bathing in acidic water from the Radium hot spring, long renowned for its therapeutic properties.

Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po is an authentic, one-of-a-kind evening event. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine like no other you’ll ever experience.

The Te Po  Indigenous Experience begins with a mouth-watering buffet at the world famous Pataka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. With locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish, it is guaranteed to be a favorite with your group.

Following this, you will be led to view an exhilarating cultural performance which takes place in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a Pohiri (Traditional Maori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Moteatea (traditional chant), Poi and Haka.

Afterwards, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (people moving vehicle) and discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. For generations Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. During this experience, you will be viewing the valley afterhours and resting with a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock seating beneath the powerful Pohutu Geyser.

Operates:
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

Includes:
– Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
– Buffet dinner
– Maori cultural performance
– Hot chocolate
– Guided tour of the geothermal valley

Need to know:
Please advise of dietary requirements.

Day 6 - Shuttle Transfer, Rotorua Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to Napier.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

Day 6 - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Rotorua to Christchurch

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Christchurch (South Island).

Days 6 to 14 - 8 Day Car Rental, for Christchurch to Queenstown

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for eight days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand at your own pace by car. Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that in New Zealand people drive on the left hand side of the road.

*Upgrade available to include GPS navigation system (additional cost).

Base rate only paid by About Australia. Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

Days 6 to 8 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Christchurch

Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, offers a stylish boutique hotel, just metres from Cathedral Square, major business houses, convention facilities and prime attractions. The city, also known as the “Garden City” offers many opportunities to either rest from your travel or explore the city. Consider traveling to Arthur’s Pass National Park, which has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding its way through New Zealand’s magnificent Waimakariri Gorge.

Day 7 - Free Day to Explore Christchurch

Spend a day to relax or explore diverse Christchurch.

Christchurch is a beautiful lifestyle city, set on the expansive Canterbury Plains between the wide sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean, the spectacular snow-capped Southern Alps and the volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula. The city is interwoven by two rivers linking parks, gardens and avenues.

Browse the galleries and weekend markets. Savour local cuisine and award-winning wines and beers at the myriad of bars, cafes, restaurants and wineries.

Photo Credit: Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Discover Christchurch on a Double Decker

Discover Christchurch on New Zealand’s Only Top Double Decker Day Tour!

This tour takes place on a 1960’s London Open Top Double Decker bus for a fun and informative tour of Christchurch. Learn about Christchurch’s fascinating history from the pioneering days through to modern day times and learn how Christchurch is recovering from the devastating February 22 earthquake which has now become a major event in New Zealand’s history.

On tour, you will view some of the areas affected by the earthquakes, see how Christchurch is preserving some of its iconic heritage buildings and hear about the exciting vision to rebuild and restore the inner city.

Your experience includes a 1 hour Tour around central Christchurch on New Zealand’s only Open Top Double Decker and a 2 hour Tour on a closed top Double Decker visiting places of interest in greater Christchurch.

Open Top Bus highlights: Hagley Park and Antigua; Boatsheds; Botanic Gardens and The River Avon; Canterbury Museum and Arts Centre; Christchurch Art Gallery; Provincial Chambers; Catholic Basilica; Bridge of Remembrance and Friendship Corner; Cashel St ReStart Shipping Container Mall; Christchurch Cathedral and new Cardboard Cathedral; Art Deco New Regent Street; AMI Stadium and much, much more!

Closed Top Bus highlights: Picturesque Seaside Sumner – Visit the quaint seaside village of Sumner, here you will have time to explore the beach while taking in the beautiful views of the sea towards the Southern Alps. Port Hills/Sign of the Takahe – Travel up the Port Hills to the sign of the Takahe for breathtaking views overlooking Christchurch City, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. Mona Vale Gardens – At Mona Vale you will enjoy a casual stroll through one of Christchurch’s most famous and spectacular gardens.

Click to View Google Map

Day 8 - Self Drive from Christchurch to Mt. Cook

Today enjoy your self-drive from Christchurch to Mt.Cook

Drive inland through beautiful rural townships of Ashburton, Geraldine and Fairlie. Pass Burkes Pass to Lake Tekapo. A stop at the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd is popular. Continue to Mt Cook and enjoy the views of the surrounding Southern Alps. An optional scenic flight or a helicopter flight onto a glacier is available (own expense, subject to weather conditions). When you reach magnificent Mt. Cook, the country’s highest peak, skirt Lake Pukaki to view more of the glacial grandeur of the Southern Alps.

332 km / 206 miles Driving: Approx 4hours 50minutes

Days 8 to 9 - 1 Night Accommodation in Mt Cook

Travel to your accommodation in Mount Cook, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Mt Cook National Park is a World Heritage-listed area and is home to Australasia’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook Mackenzie – New Zealand’s treasure highland. Clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green, snow-capped mountains and glaciers all contribute to a truly breathtaking experience. The Mackenzie Country landscape is spotted with glacial lakes and the bold man-made canal system which delivers hydro-generated energy to the cities and towns of New Zealand. Scenic flights from Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook afford breathtaking views over the Southern Alps and countryside, with ski-plane landings on the Tasman Glacier providing an unforgettable experience. All ski options are available, including heli-skiing and ski touring, and guides are available for climbing, tramping, snowboarding and glaciers exploration. Other activities include: golf, cycling, horse riding, hunting, fishing, boating, kayaking, mountaineering, heli-biking, bird watching, farm visits, garden tours, star gazing and more. Or maybe you’d just prefer a quiet place to sit and enjoy the view.

Photo Credit: Tourism NZ

Day 9 - Self-Drive from Mt. Cook to Dunedin

Leave Mt. Cook and wave goodbye to the beautiful range of snow-capped mountains in your rear-view mirror. The drive to Dunedin is a relaxing journey with some of the best sights in the country.

Head south toward Highway 8 from Mt. Cook for great views of Lake Pukaki, named one of the most stunning lakes in New Zealand. The alpine-fed lake is a brilliant turquoise color due to fine glacial sediments suspended in the water.

Once you reach the Ahuriri River and Omarama, head east for the coast. This beautiful, lakeside offers scenic views of pristine, blue water. Stop for a quick view and photo-op at the Waitiki Dam Lookout, a hydro-electric power station on the Waitaki River.

Continue your drive along the “braided” Waitaki River and then head south for Moeraki. Stop for another photo-op at the Moeraki Boulders, large spherical boulders that dot the beach. If you’ve worked up an appetite, Moeraki is home to Fleurs Place, a world renowned, oceanside seafood spot.

Finish your drive down to Dunedin and stop at Shag Point Scenic Reserve. This under-the-radar lookout is home to colonies of fur-seals and even New Zealand’s yellow-eyed penguins. Stop for a bit of wildlife spotting before heading to your accommodation in Dunedin.

(6 hours)

Photo: Vaughan Brookfield

Days 9 to 10 - 1 Night Accommodation in Dunedin

Travel to your accommodation in Dunedin, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Welcome to Dunedin’s only garden hotel, located within two acres of beautifully kept garden, and just a six-minute drive from the city centre (or seven, in rush hour). Neighboring the Dunedin Botanic Garden, you will be a short stroll to Otago Museum and the University of Otago. Forsyth Barr Stadium is also within easy walking distance. The unique surroundings make for a truly relaxing place to stay, no matter how busy your visit might be.

Day 10 - Self-Drive from Dunedin to Te Anau

Start your scenic drive in Dunedin and head west for Fiordland to Te Anau.

Travel south-west towards Gore through central Southland and Lumsden. Along the way, you’ll see up close the rolling hills and lush, green vistas New Zealand is famous for.

When you reach Baclutha, detour south-east toward Kaka Point. From there, you can take a short walk down the peninsula to see the Nugget Point Lighthouse. The peninsula gives a stunning view with crashing waves to your sides and the huge “nugget” boulders dotting the water.

Then, head for a coffee break in Owaka at the Catlins Cafe, a quirky coffee shop in a quaint, distinctly Kiwi town. If you’re so inclined, Owaka is also home to a small museum of antiquities that locals and tourists love.

Finally, jump back on Highway 1 and head west to finish off your drive, passing beautiful farmland and sheep dairies along the way. If you’re in the mood for lunch, stop and have a bite to eat at the Lumsden Hotel before arriving at the township of Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.

(3.5 hours)

Days 10 to 12 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Te Anau

Tucked away on the shores of New Zealand’s second largest lake, Te Anau is an inviting South Island town.

Te Anau is your gateway to the walking capital of the world. Discover the internationally renowned walks of the Milford Track,the Routeburn, Hollyford,Kepler Track and many more. Cruise the remote depths of Milford and Doubtful Sounds, visit the spectacular lakes of Te Anau and Manapouri, experience Te Anau’s magical glowworm caves. In Fiordland you can go hiking, caving, boating, diving, biking, play golf, go fly fishing, sky dive. Soar over the wilderness on a scenic flight, explore the water on a kayaking adventure, breathe in the scents of native forest on a guided walk .Cruise the beauty of Milford or Doubtful sounds or simply enjoy a round of golf.

Whatever your desire, whether it be leisure or activity you crave, there’s plenty to see and do.

*Optional Upgrade Available to Lakeside property (Pricing Upon Request)

Photo Credit: Destination Fiordland

Day 11 - Free Day to Explore Te Anau

Relax or explore in and around Te Anau!

The attractive town of Te Anau lies nestled on the edge of this beautiful lake, with a spectacular backdrop of Mt Luxmore and the Murchison mountains.

Te Anau is the ‘Gateway to Fiordland’ being the closest town to Milford Sound, with a scenic 2½ hour drive. The proximity of 3 of New Zealand’s 9 Great Walks places Te Anau firmly on the map as ‘The Walking Capital of the World’. Fiordland is home to The Milford Track, Kepler Track and Routeburn Track.

Photo Credit: Destination Fiordland

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Milford Sound from Te Anau - Full Day

From thundering waterfalls to sky-high mountains and lush rainforests, Milford has it all. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces. Informative, participative, and relaxed, this is the perfect way to experience Milford Sound to the fullest.

Enjoy a spectacular day in the Fiordland World Heritage Park including a cruise of the famous Milford Sound. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. The road to Milford Sound passes through rural towns and skirts around the shores of picturesque lakes backdropped with magnificent mountains. Enjoy some of the most stunning scenery to be found anywhere in the world including towering snow-capped peaks, magnificent rainforests and spectacular waterfalls. On arrival at Milford, board the luxury vessel for a two-and-a-half-hour cruise and view the famous Mitre Peak.

Cruise in style on board the newly refurbished Milford Haven. More than a boat, the Haven is a cruising bar and restaurant. Enhance your cruise with something from the café-style menu and pair it perfectly with a fresh craft beer or local wine (Own expense). The Milford Haven boasts a large rooftop deck with 360-degree views of the fiord. You can also choose to explore the fiord from the comfort of the cozy lounge, or there is a window seat for everyone in the café. Following the cruise, return to the Te Anau Visitor Centre.

Operates:
Daily
Departs 7:45am, 9:50am, 10:10am
Returns 3:00pm, 4:55pm, 5:00pm (approx.)

Includes:
– Return transfers from the Te Anau Visitor Centre
– Fjord cruise
– Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
– Insightful commentary

Need to Know:
Check in is 20 minutes before departure. Wear waterproof/warm clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring sunglasses, sunscreen and camera.

Day 12 - Self Drive from Te Anau to Queenstown

Drive time: approximately 2 hours.

Depart Te Anau for Queenstown.

Trout fishing rivers and high country scenery are features of the drive to Queenstown. Leave time to take a break in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here, the rest of your journey clings scenically to the edge of Lake Wakatipu.

Days 12 to 14 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

It’s all about location! Your 4 star accommodations sits in a tranquil lakefront setting only a minute’s walk from the heart of Queenstown with shopping, restaurants, nightlife and activities all within easy reach. This fresh, modern hotel features rooms and facilities furnished with the finest comforts and conveniences. A place where you can relax with surperb uninterrupted views of the lake, mountains and adjoining gardens. Comfortable and serene you will surely enjoy your stay here!

Upgrades Available: Garden View Room, Lakeview Room

Day 13 - Free Day to Explore Queenstown

Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown.

This region is renowned for its incedible adventure activities and spectacular outdoor terrain. You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can choose from numerous family activities, nature experiences, tours and beauty spas. One hundred and forty years after our establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown Queenstown, where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Dart River Safari - Half Day

This jet boat adventure offers your senses a feast of spectacular natural beauty on a journey into the wilderness of the World Heritage-listed Mt. Aspiring National Park.

Your day begins with 1.5 hour journey on a jet boat through the Dart River system. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys & waterfalls. Your day includes a guided walk (30 minutes) along the ‘Heritage Trail’ at Paradise. Your guide will provide you with informative & entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest. The forests of this region sit within a World Heritage Area, one of the only natural sites of its kind that is accessible to the public.

Your guide details the fascinating history of this area from the days of Gondwanaland, to quests by Maori for prized pounamu, to the present-day efforts of New Zealand’s department of conservation for the preservation of the area. On the ride home, you will stop to view the epic backdrop for many international movies, including ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

Dart River Wilderness Safari is a high-country adventure. To ensure that your experience is truly enjoyable, please: Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes, regardless of season or weather. Bring sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen (insect repellent could also be useful in some weather conditions). Note that cameras are carried at customer’s risk.

Tour itself is approximately 3 hours.

Operates
Daily. Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Departs Queentown 8:30am
Departs Glenorchy 9:30am

Includes
– Highly experienced professional driver and guide 
– Thrilling ride on a modern, well maintained twin engine jet boat
– Life jackets 
– Transport from central Queenstown location or Glenorchy central location

Need to Know
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with specific medical conditions, including people who suffer from back or neck injuries. Children must be at least 3 years old to join tour. Warm layers of clothing are recommended, including waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear and sunglasses. A small bag can be carried with you for the entire duration of the tour, should you require any extra items.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Gondola with Buffet & Performance

Gaze in awe at panoramic views of Queenstown before you sit down and enjoy a truly unique New Zealand buffet & live Haka performance.

Marvel at the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola – the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Sit back and relax as the best views in the region unfold before your eyes and the Gondola carries you 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob’s Peak.

En route you will enjoy a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breath taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak and over Queenstown.

On arrival, there are purpose built viewing platforms and outdoor terraces that provide great photo opportunities.

After the Gondola ride, you will step foot in one of the best restaurants with a spectacular lake and mountain view. The famous Taste of New Zealand buffet offers delectable fresh seafood, salads, roast meats and delicious desserts, while the panoramic view from our windows will captivate you day or night. It’s the ideal place for that special night out and the best place in Queenstown to watch the sun go down!

With live music creating a relaxing atmosphere and never ending scenery to admire, you will be entertained as you dine on the award winning cuisine.

Kia Ora! Nau mai haere mai ki tenei o to tatou nei whare whakaturanga. (Welcome! To our special place of Maori performing arts)

The Kiwi Haka is a spiritual journey of Maori culture and customs as told through traditional song and dance. The live performance is set in an intimate 77-seat theatre surrounded by carved decorations depicting myths and legends of the local Wakatipu region. Highlights of the 30-minute show include the powhiri (welcome), stunning poi display and fearsome Haka.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Walter Peak Farm & BBQ Lunch Excursion

This is a New Zealand farming tour like no other. A visit to the Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing few hours enjoying an interactive farming experience.

Farming in the New Zealand high country is a way of life – and it’s one you can get up close to at Walter Peak.
Situated on picturesque Lake Whakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place. The farm tour itself is a wonderful interactive experience, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy. You will be greeted by your rural host upon disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, who will take you to the amphitheater, where you will watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks. You will have time for a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then a stroll to the charming old woolshed for afternoon tea. You may have time to stroll through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Operates
Daily (except Christmas and not operating 20MAY to 30JUN)
Starts multiple times daily from 11am to 3pm (3.5 Hour Tour)

Includes
– Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
– Guided Farm tour
– Sheep dog demonstration
– Enjoy afternoon tea, freshly baked at the farm

Need to Know
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Own expense). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and camera.

Upgrades
Can add BBQ lunch or dinner to your farm experience.

Day 14 - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

Day 14 - International Flight, Auckland to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.

Day 14 - Los Angeles to Hometown (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Packages by About New Zealand, a subsidiary of About Australia, a fully bonded and ARC Accredited travel company.