Tour Description

New Zealand

(Combined Departure)
Fifteen Days: 18th November – 2nd December 2024

Twin Share: $10399 per person. Sole Use: $12319 per person.

Day Two – TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, we embark on a scenic journey south from Auckland, venturing over the Bombay Hills and descending into the heart of the Waikato Valley, renowned for its lush landscapes and highly productive dairy farms. This region, with its rich soil and pastoral beauty, is a vital part of New Zealand’s agricultural prowess.

Upon reaching Hamilton, our exploration takes us to the spectacular Hamilton Gardens. Here, the concept of telling ‘The Story of Gardens’ through thematic collections comes to life. You will be guided through the Paradise Garden Collection, showcasing a series of internationally inspired gardens. This includes the tranquil Chinese Scholars Garden, the blossoming English Flower Garden, the minimalist Japanese Garden of Contemplation, the bold American Modernist Garden, the grand Italian Renaissance Garden, and the intricately designed Indian Char Bagh Garden, each offering a unique perspective on cultural gardening styles.

With our senses enriched by the beauty and diversity of Hamilton Gardens, we proceed across the verdant Mamaku Ranges. This drive offers picturesque vistas before descending into Rotorua, nestled in New Zealand’s renowned thermal region, where geothermal wonders await our discovery.

Upon arrival, we check into the Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Ph: +64 7 348 1174). Situated on the shores of the picturesque Lake Rotorua, the hotel offers serene lake views and easy access to the city’s renowned thermal areas. After settling into our accommodation, we have the opportunity to relax before dinner.

Day Three – WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2024

Today, embark on an enlightening visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery, where a 45-minute guided tour offers a deep dive into the life of New Zealand’s iconic fauna emblem, the kiwi. As the world’s most successful kiwi hatchery, this facility has seen over 2100 kiwi chicks hatched. Learn about the intricate process of kiwi hatching and witness conservation efforts firsthand in the specialized incubation facility. If fortune smiles, you might even glimpse a newly hatched kiwi chick. This visit not only educates but also supports the National Kiwi Recovery Trust, as all proceeds contribute to kiwi conservation.

After some leisure time in the afternoon, the journey continues at Te Puia for a guided tour of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. This tour blends premier Māori cultural insights with the spectacular natural phenomena of the geothermal valley. Observe the dynamic geothermal landscape of boiling mud pools, steaming silica terraces, and hot springs, highlighted by the famous Pohutu Geyser. At the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, witness young Māori artisans honing the traditional carving and weaving skills of their forebears.

The day culminates with the Te Po experience, starting with a sumptuous buffet dinner at the Pātaka Kai Restaurant, featuring dishes prepared using the hangi, a traditional Māori cooking method. After dinner, immerse yourself in a cultural performance in the ornately carved Te Aronui-a-Rua meeting house, where you’ll be treated to waiata (songs), mōteatea (traditional chants), poi, and the powerful haka. The evening concludes with hot chocolate served amidst the geothermal valley, now illuminated with coloured lights, providing a serene end to a culturally rich day.

Day Four – THURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2024

We depart Rotorua and journey through the expansive Kaingaroa State Forest, one of the largest man-made forests on the globe. We pause at the breathtaking Huka Falls, where the powerful Waikato River surges through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular display of nature’s force. We then continue our scenic drive through the charming town of Taupo, skirting the edges of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake.

Upon arrival, embark on a captivating 1.5-hour cruise aboard the comfortable Cruise Cat, exploring Lake Taupo’s expansive waters. This journey offers an intimate view of the intricate Maori Rock Carvings and provides a full commentary on the region’s volcanic history and the rich tapestry of Maori mythology that envelops the area. As you glide across the water, enjoy the striking backdrop of the snow-capped mountains of the World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park, visible in all their glory.

As dusk approaches, we arrive at our accommodation for the night, the Millennium Hotel and Resort Manuels Taupo (Ph: +64 7 378 5110). This elegant lakeside resort offers a perfect blend of comfort and scenic views, with rooms overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Taupo.

Day Five – FRIDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2024

Today, we embark on a southern journey from Taupo, tracing the picturesque shores of the lake. As we venture further, the Central Plateau unfurls before us, offering possible glimpses of the majestic volcanic trio of Tongariro National Park (weather permitting).

Our route then sweeps us along the stunning Kapiti Coast, leading into the vibrant city of Wellington, which elegantly sprawls across undulating hills surrounding a breathtaking natural harbour.

This afternoon, our exploration of Wellington includes an insightful sightseeing tour. We’ll admire the grandeur of the Parliament Buildings, take in the historical charm of Old St Paul’s Cathedral from afar, and glimpse the academic buzz of Victoria University.

A highlight of today’s adventure is a visit to Te Papa, the National Museum of New Zealand. Here, we delve into a rich array of exhibits, from Maori cultural treasures and Pacific heritage to contemporary art and environmental records, all presented through state-of-the-art interactive displays. This self-guided tour allows us to connect with New Zealand’s past and present in a profoundly engaging way.

We check into our accommodation at the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Ph: +64 4 499 9500), where we have time to check in and relax, before making our way to dinner.

Day Six – SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, bid farewell to your North Island driver and embark on a scenic 3.5-hour ferry journey across the Cook Strait. Sail through New Zealand’s only true sound, the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, arriving in Picton where you’ll be greeted by your new driver and coach.

From Picton, our route takes us south along a narrow corridor between the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean and the towering mountain ranges to Kaikoura. This unique spot, where mountains meet the sea, offers breathtaking coastal views. Continuing on, we traverse the lush farmlands of the North Canterbury Plains and pass through the Waipara wine district, renowned for its excellent grape-growing conditions due to the region’s microclimate.

We arrive in Christchurch by evening. Here, we check into the Quality Hotel Elms (Ph: +64 3 355 3577), a comfortable and welcoming accommodation located within easy reach of the city center.

This evening, enjoy the company of your fellow travellers over a delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant, reflecting on the journey and the beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes.

Day Seven – SUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, embark on an enlightening sightseeing tour of Christchurch, a city that has risen resiliently from the devastation of the 2011 Canterbury Earthquakes.

Our first stop is the Canterbury Earthquake Memorial, a solemn tribute to the lives lost and affected by the earthquake. This beautifully designed space along the River Avon offers a place for reflection and remembrance, encapsulating the resilience and unity of Christchurch’s community.

Next, we visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. These expansive gardens are renowned for their extensive plant collections and beautifully curated landscapes.

Today’s journey also includes an all-day pass on the beautifully restored heritage Christchurch Tram. Traverse the evolving cityscape in style while knowledgeable tram drivers share insights about the city’s landmarks and attractions. Your day-long pass offers the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the 18 tram stops, allowing you to explore major attractions at your leisure. The tram route is strategically designed to stop near key destinations such as Punting on the Avon and Cathedral Junction. You can also enjoy sights like the gothic-style Arts Centre, the Canterbury Museum, and the charming New Regent Street from the comfort of your tram or by alighting at any of the stops. Trams run frequently, approximately every 15-20 minutes, ensuring that you can move around the city easily.

As evening sets in, return to the comfort of our accommodation, where we gather for dinner.

Day Eight – MONDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, embark on a breathtaking journey aboard the Tranz Alpine train, renowned for its picturesque route through the heart of New Zealand’s landscapes. As you depart, the train whisks you away from the expansive Canterbury Plains and ascends into the majestic Southern Alps. You’ll traverse dramatic gorges, river valleys, and towering viaducts, entering the rugged terrain of Arthur’s Pass National Park, a spectacle of lush forestation and alpine beauty.

Upon disembarking at Arthur’s Pass, rejoin your coach to continue your scenic adventure. The journey from the alpine heights transitions into the dense rainforests of Westland. Traveling south along the West Coast, you’ll arrive in Hokitika, a town famed for its rich greenstone heritage. Here, we visit a local factory where the jade-like stone, treasured by preEuropean Māori, is intricately carved into stunning jewellery, offering a glimpse into traditional and contemporary Māori culture.

The journey then carries on southward, weaving through lush forests and pastoral land, with the grand Southern Alps rising to the east and the wild Tasman Sea sprawling to the west, until you reach the quaint village of Franz Josef.

This afternoon offers the thrilling option of a helicopter flight over the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier (available at an extra cost), providing an unparalleled view of its crevasses and ice falls.
We then check into our accommodation at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Ph: +64 3 752 0729), where we have time to relax before dinner.

Day Nine – TUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER 2024

Today, our journey along the West Coast Road of the South Island immerses us in a landscape that feels almost untouched by time. As we approach Haast, a sense of isolation envelops us, surrounded by a wild mosaic of rainforests, wetlands, and rugged beaches battered by the surf. This area, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, is celebrated for its dramatic forested and mountainous landscapes, which rank among the most picturesque natural treasures globally.

We traverse through the diverse ecosystems of Westland National Park, following the Haast River valleys and crossing over the scenic Haast Pass. Our route then leads us through Makarora towards the expansive upper reaches of Lake Wanaka. As we journey past Lake Hawea, we encounter the serene beauty of Lake Wanaka, where the mighty Clutha River begins its flow.

Continuing our travel, we follow the winding path through Cromwell and along the breathtaking Kawarau Gorge Road, arriving in Queenstown, New Zealand’s premier alpine resort town, renowned for its vibrant energy and stunning year-round attractions.

This afternoon, we will check into our accommodation at the Scenic Suites Queenstown (Ph: +64 3 442 4718), where we’ll spend the next two nights. We have time to freshen up, before meeting for dinner.

Day Ten – WEDNESDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, our adventure in Queenstown begins with a delightful tour showcasing the town’s enchanting highlights.

Our first stop is the charming historic Arrowtown, nestled along the banks of the Arrow River. Once a bustling hub during the gold rush era, today Arrowtown captivates visitors with its quaint cafés, intriguing galleries, and unique boutiques. Take a moment to stroll down to the historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. This well-preserved site serves as a poignant tribute to the Chinese miners who played a crucial role in the region’s gold mining and cultural history.

As the morning unfolds, we embark on a nostalgic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamer that evokes the romance of a bygone era. Our destination is the Walter Peak High Country Station, where the essence of rural New Zealand comes to life. Here, immerse yourself in a farmyard tour, engaging with sheep, red deer and Scottish Highland cattle. Witness the skill of sheep dogs herding ewes, observe a sheep shearing demonstration and perhaps try your hand at spinning wool.

A sumptuous barbecue lunch awaits at the Colonel’s Homestead, offering a taste of local flavors amidst the pastoral landscape.

The afternoon brings a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak, where breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the majestic mountain ranges, including The Remarkables, stretch out before you.

With the afternoon at your leisure, Queenstown’s vibrant energy invites you to explore further or simply relax and soak in the stunning vistas. We then return to our accommodation in Queenstown, where we can relax before meeting for dinner.

Day Eleven – THURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2024

Depart early this morning for a captivating journey around Lake Wakatipu, heading through Te Anau and into the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. This region is a pristine wilderness, where the landscape is dominated by dramatic fjords, towering peaks and deep glacial valleys. Enveloped in dense rainforest, the area is alive with cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear streams.

Upon arriving at Milford Sound, board a cruise vessel to embark on a spectacular voyage through the fjord. Glide past the iconic Mitre Peak, stretching towards the sky, and venture out to the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife; seals and dolphins are often spotted frolicking in the fiord’s clear waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch onboard, surrounded by the awe-inspiring natural beauty of this remarkable landscape.

After the cruise, rejoin your coach and begin the scenic return trip to Te Anau. Travel through the Cleddeau Gorge, pass through the Homer Tunnel, and admire the tranquil beauty of the Eglinton Valley.

The day’s adventure winds down as we make our way to Te Anau, the gateway to the fiords. We check into the Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Ph: +64 3 249 7526), a comfortable and welcoming base just steps away from the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau.

Day Twelve – FRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2024

Today, our journey continues as we bid farewell to the serene landscapes of Te Anau and make our way back to the vibrant resort town of Queenstown.

Continuing north, our travels take us through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, a natural marvel with steep cliffs and rugged terrain that offers a glimpse into the geological diversity of the region. We then travel to Cromwell, nestled in the heart of Central Otago, an area celebrated for its extensive orchards and as a prime producer of some of New Zealand’s finest stone fruits.

After enjoying the lush views around Cromwell, we follow the road beside the charming Lake Dunstan. This artificial lake, created by a hydroelectric dam, is a recent addition to the landscape and provides picturesque waterside scenery that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding dry hills.

Next, we ascend through the distinctive Central Otago countryside, marked by its tussock-covered hills and rocky outcrops, to reach the Lindis Pass. This high mountain pass at an elevation of about 971 meters offers panoramic views of the Southern Alps and is known for its stark, windblown beauty, providing a scenic backdrop for our drive.

Our day concludes in Omarama, known as the ‘Place of Light’ for its extraordinarily clear skies that make it a haven for stargazers. We check into the Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel (Ph: +64 3 438 9805) and have time to freshen up before dinner.

Day Thirteen – SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024

This morning, we set out to explore the stunningly beautiful Lake Tekapo, where the remarkable blue waters provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Our first stop is the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a historic stone chapel that stands as a testament to the pioneers of the region, offering panoramic views that are a photographer’s dream. Close by, we pause at the statue of the Collie dog, dedicated to the invaluable sheepdogs of the Mackenzie Basin.

Our journey continues through the expansive Mackenzie Basin, known for its wide-open spaces and dramatic high country scenery. We traverse Burke’s Pass, entering the picturesque towns of Fairlie and Geraldine, each adorned with quaint shops and local charm. The drive takes us through Ashburton, a key agricultural hub, where the pastoral landscape stretches far into the distance.

As we cross the fertile Canterbury Plains, the agricultural heartland of New Zealand, we are greeted by sprawling fields and the distant outline of bustling Christchurch.

Tonight, we stay at the Quality Hotel Elms (Ph: +64 3 355 3577), where we have time to relax before gathering again for dinner.

Day Fourteen – SUNDAY 1 DECEMBER 2024

This morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will board our coach for a transfer to Christchurch Domestic Airport. Today marks our journey from the South Island to the North, as we take a flight back to Auckland.

Upon arrival in Auckland, a transfer will be waiting to take us to our next accommodation, the Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre (Ph: +64 9 883 2900). Here, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax or explore the vibrant surroundings at your own pace, before meeting later for dinner.

Day Fifteen – MONDAY 2 DECEMBER 2024

As dawn breaks on our final day, the city of Auckland bids us a gentle farewell.

An Endeavour Tours representative is on hand to ensure a smooth transition as we depart from our hotel and make our way to Auckland International Airport. As we board our flights, carrying the essence of New Zealand with us, we reflect on a journey that has not only traversed stunning vistas but has also woven the rich tapestry of New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural majesty into our lives.

As we arrive in Adelaide, an Endeavour Tours representative, will assist us with disembarking the plane, retrieving our bags, and directing us to our chauffeur car which will take us home.

The farewell is bittersweet, but the spirit of New Zealand will accompany us long after we’ve landed back home.