North and South Discovery
Programme Overview
Duration: 13 days
This itinerary visits all of the major highlights on both islands and is ideal for groups of any size.
Highlights: Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown.
Arrive Auckland
On arrival in Auckland meet your chauffeur and transfer to your accommodation, which will be available to you immediately. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the area or relax in the hotel after the flight. Enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Auckland is a vibrant city, nicknamed the "city of sails". Located on the spectacular Waitemata Harbour its major landmarks are the Harbour Bridge, the Sky Tower and Rangitoto Island, the region’s youngest volcano. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent harbour, enjoy the many and varied activities of the city, or walk and hike in the nearby hills where native flora and fauna abound.
Overnight: Langham Hotel
Meal Plan: D
Auckland
Today meet your chauffeur in the hotel lobby and transfer to Auckland Wharf. Escape the city aboard the Queen of the Auckland Harbour, Lady Gay. Cruise down the beautiful harbour past the eastern suburb beaches of Mission Bay, Kohimarama, and Saint Heliers, and onto Islington Bay nestled between Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands.
Cruise to Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s most recent volcano. This island was molten lava only 700 years ago. It is now one of the icons of Auckland and amazingly is the home of the world’s largest Pohutukawa forest. You will marvel at how such a huge forest can grow on an island of solid rock in such a short amount of time.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Pohutukawa forest and nearby foreshore. Explore the molten lava formations that make up the island.
After returning to Lady Gay move out into the bay where you will anchor for lunch, experiencing the distinctly New Zealand cuisine and fine wine which is a specialty of the Lady Gay. After a relaxing time savouring the good food and wine you will make your way back to Auckland. Dinner is at your hotel.
Overnight: Langham Hotel
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Auckland - Bay of Islands
This morning transfer to Auckland Airport to fly to Kerikeri. On arrival meet your driver-guide and depart for a private sightseeing tour around the area.
Northland is a region of unspoiled natural beauty steeped in early Maori and European history. The Bay of Islands contains some 150 islands of varying size clustered in pristine turquoise waters and boasts countless sandy beaches and bays, clear water, magnificent scenery plus some of the best sailing and deep sea fishing in New Zealand.
The sleepy Victorian township of Russell was once a haven for runaway sailors, escaped convicts, lusty whalers and the site of New Zealand’s first white settlement and capital.Visit the Waitangi National Reserve, New Zealand's most important historic site including the historic Treaty House. See the Maori war canoe and carved Maori Meeting House. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 between representatives of the English Crown and Maori Chiefs sowing the seeds of a bi-cultural nation. Explore the well-preserved relics of both the Maori and European past and experience contemporary and traditional Maori culture and lifestyles.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the company of your knowledgeable guide before transferring to your accommodation.
Dinner will be served at your resort.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Bay of Islands
Transfer to Paihia Wharf and embark on a cruise around the Bay of Islands. Experience the natural wonders, stunning scenery and learn about the cultural significance of this unique part of New Zealand on a spectacular four hour cruise to Cape Brett and the iconic Hole in the Rock. Get a glimpse into New Zealand’s earliest European history as your luxury catamaran (Tiger V) passes by Russell, the first capital of New Zealand, and many historically significant islands in the Bay.
Enjoy the views as your skipper takes you into the open sea and out to the stunning Motukokako Islands, then past the Cape Brett Lighthouse. From there venture into the stunning Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett (conditions permitting). Hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Watch out for water drops if you’re seated on the top deck. Then take in the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Return to Paihia and the rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner will be served at your resort.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa
Meal Plan: B,D
Bay of Islands - Rotorua
This morning transfer by private vehicle to Kerikeri Airport for your flight to Rotorua.
Rotorua is New Zealand’s cultural heartland where the Earth’s crust is so thin that its molten heart bubbles and steams at the surface. Often called Sulphur City this town sits on an active fault line and the area’s bizarre natural wonders have fascinated visitors since the 1840s. Home to one-third of the country’s Maori population, the town is deeply rooted in tradition and has a strong sense of Maori community.
This afternoon visit the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village for an afternoon of exclusive Maori cultural immersion. Participate in a Powhiri (Maori welcome) and Maori concert in the company of your Kaumatua (Maori Elder). Enjoy lunch with your Kaumatua, learning about the history of the region, the art of weaving and meet the tribe that inhabits the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. Visit the Thermal Reserve, an area of thermal activity that has produced geysers, boiling mud and silica terraces, before your transfer to your accommodation. Dinner at hotel.
Overnight: Millennium Hotel
Meal Plan: B,L
Rotorua
Have you ever wondered what it is like standing on the edge of a live volcanic crater? Today you will fly to White Island for a guided walk on the crater of New Zealand’s most active volcano, once home to factory workers who mined the island for sulphur. Ruined remains of this hard life still exist today. During your flight be on the look out for dolphins, a common sight in the Pacific Ocean. This option also includes the exclusive Mount Tarawera landing on the return flight.
Overnight: Millennium Hotel
Meal Plan: B,D
Rotorua - Wellington
This morning transfer by private vehicle to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Wellington.
The Wellington region is an area of immense diversity and character. Victorian architecture graces the steep hills surrounding one of the finest harbours and beautiful coastlines in the country. Today Wellington is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and sophisticated city. As the capital city of New Zealand it is home to Parliament and is the centre for many financial institutions.
On arrival in Wellington transfer to your accommodation, where you will be able to leave your luggage. In the afternoon enjoy a classic walking gourmet tour whicn includes learning about coffee roasting and discovering culinary treasures at our top Wellington gourmet food stores. To finish, savour a light, three course tasting lunch with matched New Zealand wines at a top Wellington restaurant, and meet the chef and/or owner. The rest of the afternoon and evening will be at your leisure.
Overnight: Museum Hotel
Meal Plan: B,L
Wellington
This morning, you will tour the vibrant city of Wellington, the cultural, political and commercial capital of New Zealand.
Highlights of your visit will include the waterfront harbour and Lambton Quay, the main shopping and business district of the city, as well as a drive along the coast of Oriental Bay to the summit of Mount Victoria for magnificent views of the city and harbour. Your sightseeing also includes the Parliamentary District, where you will enjoy a private tour of the Old Government buildings including the Edwardian-Neoclassical Parliament House, the Victorian-Gothic Parliamentary Library and a visit to the Botanic Gardens. This tour will end at the Te Papa Museum where you can discover more about the history, art and culture of New Zealand.
After the tour you will be returned to your accommodation where the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Overnight: Museum Hotel
Meal Plan: B,D
Wellington - Christchurch
Today transfer to Wellington Airport for flight to Christchurch.
Christchurch is known as the “Garden City” and is the largest centre in the South Island. The tree-lined River Avon meanders through its heart and the neo-Gothic Christchurch Cathedral presides over the square, retaining something of the essentially English nature of its origins. The city's old clustered stone buildings have a distinctive medieval air. A third of the city is preserved in gardens, parks and nature reserves.
On arrival in Christchurch embark on an Insider Access Tour “Millstream and Flaxton Farm Tour”. First, enjoy exclusive access to Millstream, a formal garden located on the outskirts of Christchurch. Owners Elaine and John Lynn have created a masterpiece - five acres of stunning landscaped gardens with ponds, a lake, long vistas dotted with statues and a lovely rose walk.
Next continue to Flaxton Farm, a short five minute drive away. Spend time with owners Alison and Graeme Stevenson and learn about their 1,000 acres of rolling farmland. Renowned for its merino sheep breeding program, they have three breeds including a prize-winning merino stud. The grand homestead is over 100 years old and has been in the family for at least four generations. Witness their dogs herding the sheep and see one of the sheep being shorn. Enjoy lunch (New Zealand lamb) with your local hosts Graham and Alison.
Later transfer to your accommodation, where the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Overnight: George Christchurch
Meal Plan: B,L
Christchurch
Today begins with a sightseeing tour of Christchurch.
It includes a scenic drive along the River Avon and onto Cathedral Square, Christ College, the Arts Centre and the Botanical Gardens. Drive to the top of the Port Hills for a wonderful vista of Christchurch and the surrounding countryside including quaint Lyttleton Harbour.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the International Antarctic Centre. Enjoy the indoor attraction with a snow phone audio guide and take an exciting outdoor ride on a genuine Antarctic vehicle - the Hagglund. You will then be taken "behind the scenes" in the NZ Penguin Encounter offering an up close and personal experience with the world's smallest penguin. This tour, led by one of our Antarctic Rangers, offers a comprehensive insight into the biology, environment, habitat and care of the birds.
Later go punting in the park. Departing from the historic Antigua Boatsheds (established 1882) on the banks of the river Avon, sit back and relax on a traditional English punt while meandering through the scenic Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park.
Dinner tonight will be on the iconic Christchurch Tramway – travel in style around central Christchurch as you dine.
Overnight: George Christchurch
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Christchurch - Queenstown
Today transfer to Christchurch Airport and depart for Queenstown.
Queenstown is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by rolling farmlands and mountains. As well as being a base for countless outdoor activities Queenstown is well known for its shopping and recreation. On arrival in Queenstown enjoy a Secrets of Bungy tour, which is designed for those wishing to learn more about bungy without their feet leaving the ground. Revealing some of the best kept secrets of bungy and providing VIP access to restricted areas as you discover its origins and history through a fascinating cinematic adventure. Learn how a bungy cord is made.Gain exclusive access to parts of the bungy viewing deck, getting up close and personal to bungy jumpers.
Continue to the Gibbston Valley Winery, located in the world’s southernmost wine producing region Kawarau Gorge, a 20 minute drive from Queenstown. This small, sophisticated winery and restaurant, set in spectacular mountain surroundings, provides indoor and outdoor dining, wine tasting and wine cave tours. Gibbston Valley Wines has earned an international reputation for Pinot Noir as well as other thriving grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling and Pinot Blanc. Indeed, their 2000 Reserve Pinot Noir was named the Champion Pinot Noir of the World. Embark on a private tour accompanied by the in-house wine expert, including a special visit to the underground cellar. Sample the delectable wines and hear about the winemaking process. On conclusion transfer to your accommodation.
Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown
Meal Plan: B,L
Queenstown
Compliment the spectacular flight to Milford with a relaxing cruise on the Sound. Experience the stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls and unique wildlife from the comfort of a luxury vessel. Enjoy a gourmet lunch during the cruise. Your pilot will meet you after the cruise and fly you back to Queenstown with a remote snow landing en route. Dinner at your hotel.
Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Depart Queenstown
After breakfast, transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey.
Meal Plan: B