North & South Tour – Flight Package

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most vibrant city. Once you arrive, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your flight or begin exploring the City of Sails at your own pace.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before meeting your fellow travellers and friendly Kirra Tours guide at 6:15pm. Then head out together at 6:30pm for a delicious welcome dinner – the perfect way to connect, relax, and get excited for the unforgettable days ahead on your North Island adventure.

This morning you’ll depart Auckland for a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Your first stop is Waitomo, world-renowned for its enchanting glowworm caves. Step aboard a boat and glide silently through a magical cavern illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, then wander through ancient limestone formations that have been millions of years in the making. From there you’ll continue to Rotorua, a geothermal paradise and vibrant centre of Māori culture. Discover bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers and the rich traditions that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. In the evening you’ll gather for a delicious group dinner before settling in for a relaxing night in Rotorua, ready to embrace tomorrow’s adventures.

This morning you’ll journey along the shores of Lake Rotorua to a stunning lookout over the dramatic Mount Tarawera, once home to the legendary Pink and White Terraces before a devastating 1886 eruption reshaped the landscape. Your exploration continues at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, New Zealand’s most-visited archaeological site, where you’ll uncover the fascinating stories and preserved remains of this fateful event. In the afternoon you’ll wander beneath the towering Redwoods and magnificent Douglas firs of Whakarewarewa Forest, surrounded by New Zealand’s iconic silver ferns. You then have free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace – perhaps stroll through Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud-pools and steaming lakes, wander the elegant Government Gardens, soak in the healing waters of the Polynesian Spa or take the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over this geothermal wonderland.

This morning you’ll head to the serene shores of Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara for an authentic taste of the real New Zealand. Here you’ll be welcomed by a passionate Māori whānau (family) at Kohutapu Lodge, a community-focused haven dedicated to revitalising the local town through inspiring cultural and social initiatives. Your experience begins with a guided visit to sacred Māori rock carvings, rich with ancestral stories, before returning to the lodge to watch the preparation of a traditional ground-cooked hāngi. As the earth-oven is lifted, aromas will tempt your senses, and once served, you’ll enjoy what may be the most unforgettable meal of your trip. After this heart-warming experience you’ll continue to Taupō to witness the strikingly blue Huka Falls and take in sweeping views over the magnificent Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake.

After breakfast you’ll journey to the sun-soaked Hawke’s Bay region, home to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries. In Napier a visit to the historic Mission Estate Winery is a must – enjoy a wine tasting followed by a leisurely lunch featuring exquisite local cuisine, paired perfectly with award-winning wines, all while soaking up the region’s golden sunshine and vineyard vistas. Later you’ll make a short drive to the charming coastal town of Napier, renowned for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture. Stroll along the tree-lined promenade, explore the boutique shops or dine on freshly caught seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants – all while enjoying views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

This morning you’ll depart Napier and journey south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, famed for its café culture and arguably the country’s best coffee. Along the way you’ll stop in the Wairarapa’s oldest town, Greytown, for lunch. With beautifully restored Victorian buildings and charming boutique shops, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak up the village’s quaint atmosphere before continuing to Wellington. Once there, the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure – perhaps wander along the waterfront, browse local galleries or visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, home to fascinating exhibits that celebrate the country’s unique history, culture and natural wonders.

After breakfast you’ll board the ferry for the scenic crossing of the Cook Strait to the South Island. Weather permitting, head up on deck to admire the stunning Marlborough Sounds and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Upon arrival in Picton you’ll travel on to Blenheim for a vineyard lunch at one of New Zealand’s premier Sauvignon Blanc producers. After lunch you continue to Nelson – a lovely town known as the sunshine capital of New Zealand, where you’ll have time to relax, explore, and sample local foods and beverages.

Today is your free day to enjoy Nelson however you wish. With its thriving arts scene and location near top hop-growing country, you might choose a wine or craft-beer tour by bike, stroll through town, or take a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park for golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the track to the “Centre of New Zealand” summit for panoramic views.

This morning you’ll enjoy a leisurely coastal drive, soaking in the dramatic scenery of the Kaikōura region – keep an eye out for marine life such as seals and whales. Then travel across the North Canterbury farmlands and arrive in Christchurch in the late afternoon. Tonight you’ll enjoy a relaxing group dinner at your hotel to round off the day.

Today is the final day of the tour. Enjoy breakfast before saying a fond farewell to your tour leader and all your travel companions. You have an extra night to enjoy exploring Christchurch at your own pace.

Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey or next adventure, taking with you wonderful memories of your time in New Zealand.