Twin Island Journey
Programme Overview
Duration: 8 days
Embark on a journey emcompassing the highlights of the country’s main islands: Metropolitan Auckland and the geothermal region of Rotorua await you in the North Island, while the less populated South Island offers pristine landscapes and rugged adventure.
Highlights: Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, Christchurch.
Auckland
Upon arrival in Auckland you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel, relaxing for the remainder of the morning.
This afternoon set off for an overview of the city from the summit of Mount Eden – a dormant volcano that is the highest natural point in Auckland – before visiting Auckland Museum which is renowned for its displays on the Pacific peoples and volcanic activity.
Overnight: Mollies
Auckland - Rotorua
After a morning tour of Auckland, drive south towards Rotorua, known as “Sulphur City” for the volcanic furnaces that fuel its bubbling mud pools and geysers. Lunch at Oraka Deer Park before visiting the Rotorua Museum, arriving at your luxurious lodge late this afternoon.
Overnight: Solitaire Lodge
Rotorua
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your lodge situated on Lake Tarawera. Rotorua is known for its lakes as well as its geothermal activity and watersports options. Later board the ‘Clearwater’ for a private lunch cruise with a stop at Hot Water Beach for a relaxing swim in the natural thermal waters.
Overnight: Solitaure Lodge
Rotorua - Queenstown
Enjoy a behind the scenes visit to a local Maori community and listen to their ancient Maori Legends.
Later today fly to Queenstown, a city that draws adventurous travellers from all over the world. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to your luxury lodge on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Overnight: Blanket Bay Lodge
Queenstown
Weather permitting, a helicopter whisks you off the front lawn of the lodge for a flightseeing excursion to Milford Sound.
Land at a scenic lookout of one of the world's most picturesque areas for a delicious picnic lunch. Return to Queenstown where the afternoon is free to explore at your leisure.
Overnight: Blanket Bay Lodge
Queenstown
Queenstown lives up to its reputation for rugged adventure today.
Select from a number of activity options, including a Dart River jet boat safari, a vineyard and artists excursion, a round of golf at Millbrook or a Skippers Canyon private tour travelling through some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand.
Overnight: Blanket Bay Lodge
Queenstown - Christchurch
Board a flight to Christchurch where you will be met at the airport by your guide.
Depart on a sightseeing tour of this very English city situated on the Canterbury Plains. Visit the International Antarctic Centre and take an exciting outdoor ride on a genuine Antarctic vehicle - the Hagglund. Enjoy a light lunch at a local café before a relaxing cruise on a punt on the tree-lined Avon River.
Overnight: The George