Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand! You can arrive via a domestic flight from Auckland or directly from Australia. After completing passport and biosecurity checks, you’ll need to make your own way to the hotel. Please note: check-in starts at 15:00.

The rest of the day is free. You might take a stroll along Lake Wakatipu, ride the gondola up to the panoramic lookout above the town, or simply relax before the action-packed days ahead.

The day starts with a true adventure: a scenic river journey along the Dart River, surrounded by untouched forests. We’ll travel upstream by jet boat, then float back down in kayaks on crystal-clear waters. Even first-timers will find it easy — the gentle current helps carry us along.

In the evening, we board a vintage paddle steamer for a cruise across the lake to Walter Peak Farm. Here we’ll enjoy a buffet dinner and get a glimpse into New Zealand’s rural life. We’ll see how border collies herd sheep and watch skilled farmers shear them with impressive speed.

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.

On the way back, you’ll have two options: return by bus along the same route, or — for an additional cost (NZD 575 per person) — fly back on a 30-minute scenic flight over remote mountains, glaciers, alpine lakes, and New Zealand’s tallest waterfall, Sutherland Falls.

Note: Flights are weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll receive a full refund.

This morning we leave Queenstown and head north toward the base of New Zealand’s tallest mountain — Mount Cook. En route, we’ll visit Arrowtown, a charming town with preserved wooden buildings from the Gold Rush era. Then we’ll make a stop in the Gibbston Valley for a wine tasting in an underground cellar, followed by lunch at a local winery restaurant.

After lunch, the road takes us through hills and canyons to a natural wonder — the Clay Cliffs. These fragile and fast-eroding formations look like something from another planet.

We begin the day with a drive to the stunning Hooker Valley, stopping along the way at Lake Pukaki — famous for its bright turquoise water and iconic views of Mount Cook’s snowy peak reflected in the lake.

Next, we set out on a gentle, scenic trek through the Hooker Valley, crossing three swing bridges and enjoying glacier views all along the way. We’ll bring a packed lunch to enjoy in the fresh alpine air. For those interested, there’s an optional 40-minute helicopter tour (NZD 655 per person) with a snow landing in the surrounding mountains.

After the hike, we continue on to the town of Tekapo — a quiet place of exceptional natural beauty. Here, among snow-capped mountains, lies one of New Zealand’s most photographed lakes, known for its surreal turquoise color. We’ll spend the night here to fully appreciate the magic of this setting.

The morning is free. You might take a moderate hike to the summit of Mount John, which offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Or simply unwind on the lake’s tranquil shore — in December, the banks are painted with blooming lupins and poppies, adding vibrant color to an already spectacular landscape.

After lunch, we’ll depart for Christchurch — known as the “Garden City” thanks to its countless green streets and parks. We’ll check into our hotel and have some rest.

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.

In the morning, we’ll head to Kaikōura — a true center of ecotourism. The unique seafloor relief and abundance of nutrients in the water attract whales and dolphins, which we’ll have a chance to encounter! On the way, we’ll stop at the scenic Cathedral Cliffs, where the wind-carved rocks resemble stone cathedrals.

Upon arrival in Kaikōura, you’ll have the option to choose a marine activity that suits you:

• Whale watching by boat — a classic 3-hour tour offering a chance to see the tail or back of a sperm whale (NZD 175 per person).
• Scenic flight — a 30-minute airplane ride giving you the opportunity to see the entire whale from above (NZD 250 per person).
• Helicopter tour with landing — a 45-minute flight with a photo stop onshore (NZD 825 per person).
• Swimming with wild dolphins — for confident swimmers only. All gear provided: wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins (NZD 245 per person).

Important: Please inform us of your preferred activity when booking your tour. All experiences are weather-dependent. In case of cancellation by the operator, you will receive a full refund.

The morning begins with a drive to the town of Picton. Along the way, we’ll stop at a seal colony — these animals live right on the coastal rocks.

Then we’ll head to a unique farm where rare New Zealand blue pearls are cultivated. The farm owners will explain how pearls are formed, show us the cultivation process, and serve us a fresh seafood lunch right by the fjord. The trip to and from the farm is by boat — and if we’re lucky, we might spot dolphins along the way.

After returning, we’ll drive to one of the most famous wineries in the Marlborough region. Here, we’ll enjoy a tasting of local wines and take photos among the vineyards. In the evening, we’ll check into a hotel in Blenheim.

In the morning, we’ll leave the South Island and take a ferry across the Cook Strait to Wellington — New Zealand’s capital.

Upon arrival, we’ll take a sightseeing walk to explore the main highlights. We’ll see the Parliament building and the iconic Old Government Buildings — the world’s largest wooden structure, listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Then we’ll stroll along the central waterfront, Lambton Quay, where you can browse local souvenir shops if you wish. Our walk ends with a climb to the lookout on Mount Victoria — offering one of the best panoramic views of the city and harbor.

Since today is Christmas, most places will be closed, so your evening in Wellington is free — a great time to relax and soak in the festive atmosphere of the capital.

The day begins at Te Papa Tongarewa — New Zealand’s national museum. Its interactive exhibitions cover the nature, history, and culture of Aotearoa. A particularly powerful exhibit is the Gallipoli display, featuring giant wax figures of real soldiers, recreated based on their letters and diaries.

After the museum, we’ll tour the famous Weta Cave film studio, where visual effects were created for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and King Kong. We’ll learn how props, costumes, and special effects are made and get a behind-the-scenes look at legendary movie productions.

In the afternoon, we’ll drive to the foot of the volcanoes in Tongariro National Park. We’ll spend the night in the small village of Ohakune.

Today is all about exploring Tongariro National Park. This region is famous for its volcanoes — Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu. The latter is considered a supervolcano, whose eruption could impact the global climate.

Depending on your fitness level and interest, you can choose from several hiking routes:

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing — the most famous hike in New Zealand. It takes 6–9 hours and passes craters, sulfur lakes, and lava fields.
• Old Coach Road — an easy 3-hour walk through forest and along a historic railway line.
• Taranaki Falls — a short scenic trail, about 1.5–2 hours.
• Tama Lakes — a moderate 5-hour trek past Taranaki Falls to high-mountain lakes and back.
• If you prefer water activities, rafting on the Tongariro River is also available.

Today we leave the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro and head to Lake Taupo — the largest lake in New Zealand and all of Australasia. Upon arrival in Taupo, we’ll walk along the Waikato River to Huka Falls — the most powerful waterfalls in the country. We’ll enjoy the thundering water from several viewpoints before getting even closer.

Jet boating is one of the day’s highlights — we’ll race through emerald waters at up to 80 km/h, with sharp turns, splashes, and thrilling maneuvers near the falls. Be sure to bring a towel and a change of dry clothes!

After the adrenaline rush, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a prawn farm restaurant and taste local king prawns. We’ll also stop by a honey center to sample manuka honey and pick up local souvenirs.

Later, we’ll check in to our hotel and relax. In the evening, we’ll visit the geothermal complex Wairakei Terraces. After a walk through the thermal area with an active geyser, we’ll unwind in healing hot pools with turquoise water — open-air bathing at sunset is the perfect end to the day.

Our day begins with a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, home to some of New Zealand’s most surreal natural wonders. We’ll see Champagne Pool, with its bubbling surface caused by underground chemical reactions, and the Devil’s Bath, a shocking neon-green pool.

Next, we’ll visit the National Kiwi Hatchery — a rare opportunity to see these elusive birds up close, including both adults and chicks. Photography is not allowed, but the experience will be unforgettable.

We’ll then head to Hamurana Springs, a sacred place for the Maori, where we’ll walk through serene groves of giant redwoods and marvel at the crystal-clear blue springs.

Our day continues with a visit to Te Puia, a cultural and geothermal center that includes an ancient Māori village and the tallest geyser in Australasia. We’ll explore traditional crafts and enjoy a song and dance performance. The day ends with a delicious buffet dinner inspired by traditional Maori cuisine.

In the morning, we’ll set out for Hobbiton — the legendary movie set where the Shire came to life in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. We’ll wander among the green hills, peek into hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. The tour ends with a themed lunch served right on site.

The magic continues in the afternoon with a visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Gliding through the underground grotto by boat, we’ll see thousands of glowworms twinkling above us like a silent starry sky.

In the evening, we arrive in New Zealand’s largest city — Auckland.

Our journey through New Zealand ends in Auckland, the “City of Sails”, known for its harbors filled with yachts and its early New Year celebrations — complete with fireworks and festive lights.

During the day, we’ll take a sightseeing walk, climbing to the top of the dormant Mount Eden for a panoramic view of the city, strolling through manicured parks, past Auckland University, the Harbour Bridge, and the yacht marina.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to the ocean, visiting Muriwai Beach with its striking black volcanic sand and a lookout point overlooking a gannet colony. On the way back, we’ll stop at a winery for lunch and a tasting of local wines.

In the evening — the highlight of the trip: celebrating New Year’s Eve. Please book in advance — the city is especially lively and popular on this night.

Today is yours to spend as you wish. Relax after the celebration, take a walk along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee with a view of the bay, or go souvenir shopping. You may also choose to fly out today. Please note: hotel check-out is by 10:00 a.m.

Today you begin your journey home, taking with you memories of geysers and glaciers, volcanoes and forests, beaches and hikes. Make your own way to the airport for your return flight.