Welcome to New Zealand! After meeting your guide-driver at the airport (see the “Place & time of the group meeting” section for details), we’ll embark on a city sightseeing tour.

Surrounded by water on all sides, Auckland is a paradise for sea lovers! Its outskirts are adorned with cozy beaches, offering everything for diving, surfing, and excellent fishing. Known as the “City of Sails” due to the abundance of yachts owned by locals, it exudes a vibrant maritime charm. During the tour, we’ll visit Mount Eden volcano in the heart of Auckland and relax at the scenic Mission Bay beach.

By evening, we’ll check into our hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy some free time.

In the morning, we’ll explore one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations — the Waitomo Caves, renowned as the Glowworm Caves. Beneath their arches, colonies of glowworms illuminate the darkness with a dazzling blue light, creating a mesmerizing scene reminiscent of a starry sky in the wilderness.

Next, we’ll journey to Hobbiton, the enchanting filming location of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, also known as the Shire. Step into the magical world of Middle-earth, where cozy hobbit houses nestle among lush green hills, with sheep grazing peacefully in the pastoral landscape. For fans of the books and films, this place radiates a unique charm. At the tour’s end, savor a refreshing cup of cider at the Green Dragon Inn, relaxing by the fireplace with views of hobbit holes just outside the window.

Then we’ll transfer to Rotorua, the geothermal heart of the North Island. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel.

We’ll start the day with breakfast before exploring Rotorua. First, we’ll visit the stunning blue springs of Hamurana Springs Park. Next, we’ll head to the National Kiwi Hatchery, where we’ll have a unique opportunity to see these charming birds up close. Photography is not permitted, but the experience will be unforgettable.

For lunch, we’ll ascend Mount Ngongotaha via the Skyline Gondola, enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Rotorua and the city from the summit. Afterward, we’ll descend and take a leisurely stroll along the lake. In the evening, we’ll visit the Maori village of Te Puia, where we’ll enjoy a traditional dance performance and savor authentic Maori cuisine.

Our day begins with a visit to Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, a showcase of New Zealand’s otherworldly natural wonders. We’ll marvel at the Champagne Pool, its surface bubbling with vibrant colors, and the striking neon-green Devil’s Bath.

Next, we’ll stroll along the Waikato River to Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most powerful waterfall. From multiple viewpoints, we’ll feel the roar of cascading water, immersing ourselves in its awe-inspiring force.

After this exhilarating experience, we’ll visit the Huka Honey Centre to sample world-famous manuka honey and browse unique New Zealand keepsakes.

Later, we’ll check into our hotel to relax. In the evening, we’ll explore the geothermal complex, walking through a thermal area with an active geyser before soaking in turquoise hot pools under the sunset sky — a perfect end to an unforgettable day.

We’ll set out on the scenic 6-kilometer trail to the stunning Taranaki Falls in Tongariro Park. The national park’s landscapes, with their surreal beauty, served as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, evoking the wilds of Middle-earth.

By evening, we’ll arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital. After checking in at the hotel, we’ll have time to unwind and soak in the city’s coastal charm.

After breakfast, we’ll visit New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa (meaning “treasure box” in Māori), where you can explore the nature, history, and culture of Aotearoa.

Next, we’ll stop by the Weta Cave, the renowned studio behind The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and King Kong. Here, we’ll dive into the filmmaking process, learning about costume design, special effects, and even catching a glimpse of how these cinematic masterpieces are created.

In the evening, we’ll board a ferry to marvel at the breathtaking views of the Cook Strait, widely regarded as one of the world’s most stunning waterways. As we sail past the iconic Marlborough Sounds, you’ll be captivated by turquoise slopes rising above emerald bays. These areas are part of one of the world’s largest national parks and a UNESCO-protected site.

We’ll spend the night in Picton.

Kaikoura is a true center for ecotourism. Thanks to the unique topography of the seabed and the abundance of nutrients, whales and dolphins inhabit the coastal waters, and we’ll have the opportunity to encounter them from a specially designed vessel, which features both an open deck and a closed salon with large windows.

Next, we’ll head to the famous city of Christchurch, known as the Garden City due to its countless green streets and parks. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a special experience: a full-course dinner aboard a vintage tram. As the tram glides through the illuminated streets of Christchurch, you’ll be served a fine meal featuring New Zealand cuisine.

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a serene river journey, gliding along the Avon River in a traditional gondola. Following a short city stroll, we’ll travel to Tekapo, a tranquil town nestled on the shores of a stunning lake, its turquoise waters mirroring the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. This is New Zealand’s most iconic spot for photography. We’ll spend the night here, soaking in the beauty of this natural wonder.

In the morning, we’ll depart for Mount Cook National Park, renowned for its numerous glaciers. This park is home to the iconic Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Several well-marked trails wind through the park, and we’ll take a leisurely walk along one of them. Afterward, we’ll head to Wanaka.

In the morning, you’ll have free time in Wanaka to stroll through the town, relax by the lake, or visit the intriguing Puzzling World attraction park.

Next, we’ll travel through the scenic Cardrona Pass to Queenstown, stopping at picturesque spots along the way. After checking into our hotel, we’ll board a historic paddle steamer for a cruise to Walter Peak Farm. There, we’ll get a glimpse of farm life, watching skilled dogs expertly herd sheep and farmers demonstrate shearing. A buffet dinner is included in the itinerary.

Today we journey to one of the most spectacular places in New Zealand. Through mountain passes and tunnels, we’ll make our way toward Milford Sound. Along the route, we’ll pause at scenic viewpoints to take in the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

At Milford, we’ll board our cruise through the majestic fjords. Milford Sound is often called the most unforgettable destination in the Southern Hemisphere — its raw beauty is hard to compare. Rudyard Kipling called it the "eighth wonder of the world," and Māori legends say the fjords were not carved by glaciers but created by a divine being who poured soul into their formation.

After lunch, we’ll journey to Te Anau, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the South Island’s largest lake. Surrounded by majestic mountains, the lake’s vistas are nothing short of spectacular. In the nearby Fiordland National Park, the rare takahē bird, once thought extinct since the late 19th century, was rediscovered in 1948—a remarkable story of conservation.

Today, we’ll arrive in Dunedin, the South Island’s second-largest city, nestled on the Otago Peninsula. Founded in the 19th century by Scottish gold miners, its streets are lined with striking Victorian-era architecture. Our first stop is Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest street, as recognized by the Guinness World Records — a quirky challenge for a quick climb! Next, we’ll stroll through the Dunedin Botanic Garden, marveling at its vibrant array of exotic plants.

After lunch, we’ll head to Taiaroa Head to observe a colony of blue penguins, the world’s smallest and most charming penguin species. Most active as they return from the sea at dusk, these penguins are best viewed at sunset, creating a memorable wildlife experience.

Today, we’ll return to Christchurch, stopping in route at Moeraki Beach. This coastline is dotted with mysterious spherical boulders, seemingly crafted by nature millions of years ago.

Next, we’ll visit Oamaru, a charming and welcoming town, where we’ll explore the fascinating Steampunk Museum.

By evening, we’ll arrive in Christchurch.

Check out from the hotel by 10:00 AM, followed by free time to explore the city and shop for souvenirs. Then, we’ll head to the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive tour. You’ll not only learn about Antarctic exploration but also experience a simulated icy storm, ride an Antarctic all-terrain vehicle, and meet adorable huskies.

After the tour, we’ll provide a group transfer to Christchurch Airport for a domestic flight to Auckland, followed by your international flight home.