Ultimate New Zealand 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.

Depart Christchurch this morning and travel down the scenic east coast, stopping in Oamaru to admire its beautifully preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Continue south to view the fascinating Moeraki Boulders scattered along the beach before arriving in Dunedin, a city rich in Scottish heritage and character. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure.

Start your day with a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle, known for its magnificent architecture and beautiful gardens. Continue through the Southland countryside, stopping in Gore to visit the Hokonui Moonshine Museum and discover the town’s colourful illicit distilling past – you might even sample the legendary Old Hokonui whisky! This evening you’ll arrive in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Travel to Manapouri this morning for a short cruise across Lake Manapouri before crossing Wilmot Pass into the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound. Board a modern catamaran for an unforgettable cruise through one of Fiordland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes – keep your eyes peeled for seals, penguins and dolphins. After your cruise, continue on to Queenstown, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Today is yours to enjoy Queenstown your way. Ride the gondola to Bob’s Peak for spectacular views, try a jet-boating adventure, sample local wines in nearby Gibbston Valley, or simply relax by the lakefront. Your tour guide will be on hand to help with recommendations and optional experiences.

Leave Queenstown and journey to Arrowtown, a picturesque gold-rush village frozen in time. Continue through to Wanaka, a stunning alpine town nestled beside its namesake lake – perfect for a relaxed stroll or lunch stop. This afternoon, travel through the Haast Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic mountain routes, before arriving in Haast for the evening.

Follow the rugged West Coast north to the famous glacier region. Stop at viewpoints for incredible photo opportunities before arriving in Franz Josef, where ancient ice rivers flow through lush rainforest. The evening is yours to explore or unwind in this remarkable alpine village.

Travel north to Hokitika, renowned for its pounamu (greenstone) and glass art. Visit local artisans before continuing to Greymouth to board the renowned TranzAlpine train – one of the world’s great scenic rail journeys. Enjoy breathtaking views as you cross the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains, arriving in Christchurch in the evening.

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.