New Zealand Queen Charlotte Track [ST-Walk10]
14 Days: New Zealand Queen Charlotte Track [ST-Walk10]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Wellington (2), Picton (1), Queen Charlotte Track (4), Picton (1), Queenstown (2)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • US Domestic Flights - not included (as per your own arrangements)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Auckland to Wellington, Blenheim to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Wellington: Scenic Ferry to Picton
  • Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return), Wellington Airport to Accommodation, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal, Picton Accommodation to Blenheim Airport, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (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) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland

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.

(Days 2 to 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Auckland

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

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that ‘City Of Sails.’ Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand’s largest city.

(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 City Highlights Tour

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)- Rotorua Geothermal & Waitomo Glow Worm Caves

Visit two of New Zealand’s most famous attractions on this deluxe five-star coach tour. The Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves and the spectacular geothermal regions of Rotorua, rich with Maori culture and natural history, make this a truly memorable day.

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. Travel the outskirts of Hamilton City via the small farming settlements towards the 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. We 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 through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.
TE PUIA INSTITUTE (MAORI ARTS & CRAFTS AND 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.
RETURN TO AUCKLAND: Your attraction-packed day concludes as the coach travels through the beautiful horse breeding district of Matamata and the pastureland of the Hauraki plains. A light snack is served on this sector.

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) - Americas Cup Sailing Expedition - 1/2 Day

The America’s Cup Sailing Experience offers the unique opportunity to sail on these grand prix racing machines!

Enjoy two hours as passengers become the crew and are encouraged to take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the action as we sail down the Auckland Harbour. The trip suits people of all experiences and abilities and is the perfect activity in Auckland, ‘City of Sails’.

WINTER SCHEDULE – APRIL 1ST TO SEPTEMBER 31ST 2014
Departs: 1pm daily

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 10 yrs not permitted
Weather Restrictions: Sailings subject to weather conditions

Upgrade Available: 3 Hours Match Cup Race (extra cost) – Not Available from April-October.

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 with Soaring Kiwi Tours!

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.

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Accommodation to Airport

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

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 4) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Auckland to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Auckland to the nation’s captital, Wellington.

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, 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.

(Days 4 to 6) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Wellington

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

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand’s top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

(Day 5) - Free Day to Explore Wellington

Wellington, voted the ‘Coolest Little Capital in the World’ offers the visitor heaps of cool things to do that just happen to be free.

New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, sits nestled in a natural amphitheatre around the harbour. It is easy to explore on foot and there are heaps of great things to see and do that don’t cost a cent.

Visit the dynamic and interactive National Museum of NZ – Te Papa on the waterfront. Get your city bearings and some of Wellington’s best views at the Mount Victoria Lookout. Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Garden. Four Wellington restaurants have won NZ’s Best Restaurant in the last five years. It’s safe to say you’ll be eating very well while in Wellington! Hear the birdsong and spot a tuatara as you walk through ZEALANDIA: The Karori Sanctuary Experience. Get an inside peek into Wellywood at The Weta Cave in Miramar. Go stargazing and check out the amazing planetarium show at Carter Observatory. Seeking hidden treasures? Many of Wellington’s best night spots are tucked away for your finding, such as Motel, Library or Duke Carvell’s Swan Lane Emporium. Head to Cuba Street for a slice of Bohemia, boutique shopping and some of the best coffee in town.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Seal Coast Safari Adventure

Enjoy New Zealand wilderness within minutes of downtown Wellington and immerse yourself in the native bird and wild life with stunning views of the city, sea and South Island snow-capped mountains.

Your excursion will have you experience a 4 Wheel-Driving on the beach in our Sealmobiles Off the beaten track. You will have exclusive access through private land driving right to the seals – no walking involved. Seals are guaranteed every trip.

Right from the start, you will be impressed by the friendly Kiwi “Gidday!” at the Wellington i-SITE Visitor Centre pick-up point when you are met by a Safari representative.

Your guide for the day will introduce you to the other guests, check he has enough gourmet muffins to satisfy your hunger pangs, and set off, pointing the powerful Landcruiser in the direction of the ocean.

Within minutes you have left the city behind and your 4WD adventure has begun! We traverse a local’s private land to access the sea, enjoying spectacular views and scenery along the way. This journey through our friend Steve’s ranch is a feature in itself that literally everyone comments on and loves.

Includes- Tea, coffee and fine muffins with the seals Laughing with knowledgeable and friendly guides

Insider's Tip - Parliament Building

Visit Parliament to discover our buildings and heritage, to see what happens when the House sits, and to learn about New Zealand’s democratic processes. Whether you visit in person in Wellington or take a virtual tour, you can visit Parliament for free.

Free, daily, one-hour guided tours of Parliament begin on the hour at the Visitor Centre in the foyer of the Beehive (Executive Wing). Take a tour with one of our trained guides to visit key parts of Parliament’s buildings and learn about our parliamentary processes.

The Stagecoach City Circular bus runs at regular intervals, seven days a week. This bus stops close to the lower gates of Parliament grounds.

It is easy to find Parliament on foot from the main bus depot – just walk towards the city centre from the bus depot and you will see Parliament Buildings immediately ahead of you.

Parliament grounds are close to nearby Thorndon and most of the inner city. To find the Visitor Centre, walk across Parliament grounds towards the main Parliament entrance and follow the signs.

There’s a wide range of information about Parliament available at the Visitor Centre. If you want to visit the public galleries to watch the House in session, ask for directions from the Visitor Centre staff. We suggest you check the House sitting programme first to make sure that the House is sitting at the time of your visit.

Tour Times: Monday to Friday 10:00am-4:00pm; Saturday and most public holidays 10:00am-3:00pm; Sunday 11:00am-3:00pm (Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, 2nd January, Waitangi Day (February 6th), Good Friday.) Additional tours are offered during school holidays and other busy periods. Tour times are occasionally subject to change.

Insiders Tip: Visit the Weta Workshop

Take a trip to the Weta Cave, a mini-museum, a shop and a theaterette that you can visit.



On the corner of the Weta premises in Miramar, Wellington. The museum contains props from films and projects such as Lord of the Rings! In the theaterette we show a 20 minute behind-the-scenes DVD about the work that goes on at Weta. Be sure to visit the shop, which offers everything from souvenirs and Weta merchandise to collectible sculptures.



Entry: Free: Hours: Seven Days a Week, 9:00am – 5:30pm; Phone: 64 (04) 380 9361
Address: Corner of Camperdown Road and Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington
Bus Route 2: Get off at Camperdown Road

Insider's Tip - Wellington Cable Car

The Wellington Cable Car is one of Wellington’s oldest & most popular tourist attractions.

The cars run from Lambton Quay in the heart of the central business district and within 5 minutes whisk you from under the corporate towers of The Terrace past Kelburn Park and Victoria University to the top entrance of the Wellington Botanic Gardens with its magnificent lookout over the City and harbour – Te Whanganui-a-Tara (The Great Harbour of Tara).

Other attractions immediately accessible from the top station are the award winning Cable Car museum situated in the old cable car winding room and the newly opened Carter Observatory. For those wishing to explore further, Kelburn village with its shops and Cafes is a short walk and an ideal stopping off point on your way to Zealandia. There are also easy downhill walks through the Botanic Gardens to Thorndon or back to Lambton Quay via the historic Bolton Street Cemetery and the Beehive.

A fully escorted tour of Wellington’s Cable Car and Museums is available. First stop the Museum of Wellington for the inside story on Wellington’s intruiging past. A short escorted walk along Grey Street then all aboard the Wellington Cable Car…to the top for the best views in Wellington. Learn more about these ‘Relentless red rattlers’ at the Cable Car Museum. The tour ends with tea/coffee and a homemade muffin at the Skyline Restaurant with its commanding views of the city. Take time to explore Kelburn Village or the Botanic Gardens before returning to Lambton Quay on the Cable Car.

Includes return trip on the Cable Car, guided tours and refreshments.

Departs from the Museum of Wellington at 10:00am. (Other times by arrangement) duration up to 2 1/2 hours. Bookings by 5:00pm the day before. Please make your bookings at the Museum of Wellington or at Wellington I-Site corner Victoria & Wakefield Streets Civic Square.

The Cable Cars run every 10-minutes; 7:00am to 9:00pm on Monday; 7:00am to 10:00pm on Tuesday through Friday; 8:30am to 10:00pm on Saturday and 9:00am to 9:00pm on Sunday & Public Holidays (Closed Christmas Day)

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

(Day 6) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Wellington to the Ferry Terminal.

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) - Scenic Ferry, Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey across Cook Strait between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island) takes only 3 hours and has been described as `one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world`.

Relax and enjoy the voyage on the Interislander Plus, the premium vessel traveling the straight. The vessel offers a stunning view of the South Island’s Kaikoura ranges and the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.

Be greeted by staff at reception where you can purchase cinema tickets, phone cards, magazine, confectionary, souvenirs, postcards and stamps. Complimentary beer, wine, tea, coffee and finger food are available or you can purchase food from the Fresh Food Court for a hot meal. There are multiple food service areas on the Interislander for you to choose from. Then, relax in the TV lounge or cinema or enjoy a local band in the bar. With a little bit of everything to choose from, the Interislander is truly the premium way of traveling the straight.

(Day 6) - Taxi (pay as you go), Picton Ferry Terminal to Accommodation

Taxi or ride share transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah

(Days 6 to 7) - 1 Night Accommodation in Picton

Enjoy your stay at your 4 star property in Picton, New Zealand for 1 night.

This four star property is perfectly located to enjoy the best that Marlborough has to offer, a lively tourist destination with a range of activities and adventures for its visitors.

Perfectly situated on the foreshore next to Picton Marina and ferry terminal, the hotel is your gateway to exploring the top end of New Zealand’s picturesque South Island known to locals as ‘the region of heart’. Sail the scenic harbour, explore the Queen Charlotte Track, and indulge in a tasty local drop at one of over 50 wineries.

Wine and dine at our award-winning restaurant and bar. The Restaurant has an excellent reputation for fine cuisine, a wide selection of fresh Marlborough produce and alfresco dining overlooking Picton Harbour. The Bar is an excellent place to relax, with an all day cafe menu available to enjoy with your drinks, alfresco seating and vibrant atmosphere.

Photo Credit: Destination Marlborough and Richard Briggs

(Days 7 to 11) - Queen Charlotte Track 4 Night Hiking Tour

The Queen Charlotte Track, located at the top of the South Island in the Marlborough Sounds is unique for its stunning coastal views, historical landmarks and wonderful variety of native bush and wildlife.

Day 1 : Picton to Furneaux Lodge – 15km/5 hrs walking
Departing from Picton your trip begins with a customized eco-tour with your guide as you travel to the Motuara Island bird sanctuary in the outer-Queen Charlotte Sound. Here you may have the opportunity to see the rare South Island Saddleback and South Island Robin who have been re-colonised on to this island sanctuary.

From Motuara Island you will cross the Sound to be dropped off at Ship Cove where you will begin your walk on the Queen Charlotte Track. Ship Cove is one of the most historic areas in the Sounds as it was one of James Cook’s most popular destinations on his many world travels. The area is surrounded by bountiful virgin bush and the walk to the top of the ridge provides spectacular views. As you make your way down into Endeavour Inlet, you will spy Furneaux Lodge, your first night’s accommodation. Dinner will be served in the restaurant with a glass of wine.

Day 2 : Furneaux Lodge to Punga Cove – 11.7km/4 hrs walking
After a leisurely breakfast at Furneaux Lodge you may walk up to the waterfall and see the magnificent stands of virgin native bush. Re-join the track as it winds its way around the coastline to the other side of Endeavour Inlet. Prolific birdsong dominates the day today as you walk through some regenerating bush and virgin native bush. Your accommodation this evening is at Punga Cove Resort. Dinner is served in the restaurant with a glass of wine.

Day 3 : Punga Cove to Portage Resort Hotel – 23.6km/8 hrs walking
Walk from Punga Cove to the Portage Resort Hotel along the ridge between Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sound. Spectacular views are offered as you negotiate the undulating ridge between the two sounds. This section is considered the most difficult on the track and you will need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this day. There is an option to take water transport from Punga Cove to the Portage Resort Hotel if you require a rest. Upon your arrival at the Portage Resort Hotel, you can rest and relax in the spa and enjoy the view overlooking the Kenepuru Sound. Dinner will be served in the restaurant with a glass of wine.

Day 4 : Rest day at Portage Resort Hotel – Optional activities
Sleep in, rest, relax and enjoy the leisure activities around Portage Resort Hotel. If you feel like a little more activity you may like to go fishing, play golf on the local rural golf course, or go sea kayaking with your guide. Join this intimate paddling experience in the Kenepuru Sound, the smallest of the three sounds. As you paddle from the Portage Bay foreshore on the Kenepuru Sound you can visit a mussel farm, paddle past a ship-wreck from a bygone era, or experience a chance encounter with dolphins. You will have time to stop on a tranquil beach where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch, go for a swim or a short bush walk before paddling back to Portage Bay foreshore. No experience is necessary to enjoy this trip and your guide will ensure that you have a fun, safe sea kayaking experience. This is included in your package and is subject to a minimum of 2 people.

Day 5 : Portage Resort Hotel to Anakiwa and Picton – 20.7km/7.5 hrs walking
Your final day on the Queen Charlotte Track. Today you will ascend to a ridgeline track which provides wonderful vistas of the Sounds as you walk along. After Mistletoe Bay, the track sidles the hill and drops down into Davies Bay before the last half an hour through mature beech forest ending at Anakiwa where your water transport will collect you for your return to Picton.

(Days 11 to 12) - 1 Night Accommodation in Picton

Enjoy your stay at your 4 star property in Picton, New Zealand for 1 night.

This four star property is perfectly located to enjoy the best that Marlborough has to offer, a lively tourist destination with a range of activities and adventures for its visitors.

Perfectly situated on the foreshore next to Picton Marina and ferry terminal, the hotel is your gateway to exploring the top end of New Zealand’s picturesque South Island known to locals as ‘the region of heart’. Sail the scenic harbour, explore the Queen Charlotte Track, and indulge in a tasty local drop at one of over 50 wineries.

Wine and dine at our award-winning restaurant and bar. The Restaurant has an excellent reputation for fine cuisine, a wide selection of fresh Marlborough produce and alfresco dining overlooking Picton Harbour. The Bar is an excellent place to relax, with an all day cafe menu available to enjoy with your drinks, alfresco seating and vibrant atmosphere.

Photo Credit: Destination Marlborough and Richard Briggs

(Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer, Picton Accommodation to Blenheim Airport

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

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 12) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Blenheim to Queenstown

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Blenheim to Queenstown.

(Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, 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.

(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) - Doubtful Sound - Full Day

When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence, a silence broken only by birdsong, or maybe the rushing of a distant waterfall.


On boarding a luxury coach in Queenstown, travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Manapouri. Then cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri to West Arm before boarding a coach and crossing the alpine route of Wilmot Pass through some of Fiordland’s most dense rainforest. On reaching Deep Cove, board a modern catamaran vessel, the Patea Explorer for a three hour cruise exploring the waterways of this serene and isolated fiord.


There is plenty of time available to explore points of interest and view the spectacular alpine scenery including waterfalls, rainforest and mountains all the way out to the Tasman Sea. It is home to bottlenose dolphins and fur seals and when in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguin. An onboard nature guide with specialist knowledge of the region’s history, flora and fauna provides detailed interpretation in English with a roving microphone. On the return cruise, the vessel’s engines are turned off and passengers are treated to the ‘sound of silence’. There is also a visit included to the Manapouri Power Station by coach before returning to Queenstown. Manapouri Power Station is an impressively large underground hydroelectric power station on the western arm of Lake Manapouri in Fiordland National Park. Lunch options and complimentary tea and coffee are available on the vessel.

*A picnic lunch can be pre-ordered before your tour for an additional cost. There is also a selection of cafe food aboard the vessel for purchase.

Tour departs at approximately 7am and returns at approximately 8pm (seasonally adjusted). Photo Credit: Tourism Media

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Skyline Gondola Ride

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.


Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown, New Zealand. The best views in the region are found here spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It’s truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!


Of course there’s more to do than just admire the view! Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. Thrillseekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge – it`s the fastest fun on wheels! or maybe take in the challenge of AJ Hackett`s Ledge Bungy or Swing, or take off on a tandem parapente flight. Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike. Skyline was also a finalist in the `Best Visitor Attraction` in the New Zealand Tourism Awards in 1999 and 2001.

Optional Day Tour - Not Included, Fly Fishing

On your vacation participate in a guided fly fishing excursion in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Your fly fishing trip will introduce you to some of the best and most remote New Zealand fly fishing waters. Your trip will take you into areas of magnificent scenery, majestic mountains, beech forest, crystal clear mountain rivers and streams. Amongst all this, you’ll stalk and cast to sighted brown or rainbow trout.
Imagine yourself walking through wide open river valleys for mile after mile without another angler in sight. With your tour guides in-depth knowledge of 19 rivers in and around Queenstown and Central Otago, New Zealand, you’ll have the supreme fly fishing experience – casting to fish that you have sighted and stalked with the skill of a hunter. Take the time to savour the beauty and drama of the environment while indulging in your primal instincts. You can be sure that upon your return to civilization, you’ll have lasting memories of a true wilderness experience.

Tours are available from October through April.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Shotover Jet

Welcome to Shotover Jet Country, Queenstown New Zealand.

Get ready for the World’s most exciting Jet Boat ride! Acknowledged as the World’s most famous Jet Boat operation, many imitate Shotover Jet but for sheer excitement, no one comes close.

It’s a thrilling ride – skimming past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet ‘Big Red’, as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breath taking speeds. And a major highlight – hold tight for the world famous Shotover Jet full 360º spins!


No visit to Queenstown is complete without “Catching the Canyons” with award winning Shotover Jet, “the World’s most exciting Jet Boat ride” and the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons.
Shotover Jet operates every day of the year (weather and river conditions permitting) except Christmas day.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - TSS Earnslaw Steamboat Cruise

Relive the elegance of bygone days with a 1.5 hour cruise aboard a vintage steamship.

What better way to view the magnificent scenery around Lake Wakatipu (Queenstown) than by taking a cruise a board the last remaining coal fired passenger carrying vessels operating in the southern hemisphere.Affectionately known as the Lady of the Lake, this vessel has a special place in the hearts of Queenstown people. She has been transporting goods to remote settlements and conveying passengers on beautiful Lake Wakatipu since 1912.

Photo Credit: Real Journeys

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Walter Peak Farm & BBQ Lunch Excursion - ½ Day

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting.



Your lunch starts with a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once there, you can sit back on the lakeside terrace of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and savour the delicious aromas as our chef has the best of local produce, sizzling away on the grill. Our lunch menu has been refreshed with the introduction of our new executive chef.



You’ll have a plenty to choose from our seasonal summer menu – salads, vegetables, succulent meat cooked on the outdoor rotisserie or grill. If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry, you are well catered for too. Then finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert.

After your lunch, you can join an entertaining farm demonstration or explore the beautiful lakeside gardens.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Otago Wine Tour - ½ Day

Enjoy an afternoon exploring some of the award winning wineries in the Queenstown region.


Your tour operates with small groups (maximum of 22 people) that are suitable for first time tasters or wine connoisseurs. You will experience an in-depth introduction to four Queenstown wineries and an underground wine cave tour. Friendly, knowledgeable guides offer an understanding of the unique Central Otago wine growing conditions and wines offered. Travelling time is kept to a minimum, the pace is relaxed and wine always superb.


Tour Includes: Pick up from accommodation or central Queenstown; Tasting at the four wineries visited; Wine tasting in the unique underground wine cave; View of Queenstown’s original bungy jump

Time for optional lunch (own expense) at Gibbston Valley Winery.
Departs 12:30pm daily. All year round. Allow 5 hours
Photo Credit: Southern Public Relations

(Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer, Queenstown Accommodation to Airport

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

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 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

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.

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.