New Zealand Highlights

Begin your journey at Auckland – we can arrange flights to and from the UK or as part of a round the world journey.

Welcome to Auckland, The city of sails. New Zealand’s largest city is the gateway to the North Island. Start by taking in the views from the iconic sky tower – the tallest structure in the Southern hemisphere. Discover Viaduct Harbour with its waterfront dining and nightlife, or for city escape take a ferry across the water to historic Davenport. This village within a city has a fascinating maritime history and stunning views of the city. If you are feeling active climb Mount Eden, an extinct Volcano that offers fabulous views, set sail on an Americas Cup Yacht, or take a bridge climb tour on the harbour bridge. There’s no shortage of shops, museums, and galleries in Auckland, so however you spend your time here you will not be bored!

Pick up your hire car and drive to Rotorua. You may wish to detour via the Waitomo glow worm caves on the way.

Sat atop one of the worlds most active geothermal zones, Rotorua is a natural wonderland. Its otherworldly landscapes are shaped by boiling mud, steaming hot springs pools and erupting geysers, that can be explored in its incredible thermal parks. The city is also one of the best places in New Zealand to immerse yourself in Māori culture. Attend a traditional hangi feast, experience the haka up close, and learn of traditions and stories, which will educate and entertain. Rotorua’s scenery is as beautiful as it is dramatic with tranquil lakes and towering forests that can be explored on foot or bike. Adventurous travellers may want to try white water rafting, or zorbing, or for a more relaxing experience unwind in one of the luxurious spas.

The drive from Rotorua to Wellington is a long but scenic journey through rolling farmland, geothermal landscapes, and along the rugged Kapiti Coast, offering a striking cross-section of New Zealand’s North Island beauty.

Nestled between rolling green hills and a stunning harbour, Wellington is a truly beautiful city. Known for its creative energy, vibrant culinary scene, and breathtaking landscapes, this compact capital offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering the charming laneways of Cuba Street, riding the iconic red cable car up to the Botanical Gardens, or standing atop Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the harbour, Wellington invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and discover why locals proudly call it the “coolest little capital in the world”. Don’t leave without visiting Te Papa, Tongarewa, a huge museum that explore New Zealand’s art, history and Māori culture.

Today you will cross the Cook Straits as you take the ferry* across to New Zealand’s South Island – one of the most beautiful sailings in the world. Upon arrival on the South Island you will continue onto Kaikoura.

Perched between snow capped peaks and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikōura is best known for its marine life. A deep underwater canyon attracts a year-round population of sperm whales, making Kaikōura one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Together with a resident pod of playful dolphins, curious fur seals, and the occasional albatross, it offers some incredible wildlife experiences. Beyond the deep blue sea, Kaikōura invites you to hike coastal trails with incredible panoramic views, indulge in fresh crayfish from roadside caravans, and learn of Māori stories rooted in the land and sea. Come night fall, Kaikoura is perfect for star gazing – as an accredited International Dark Sky Sanctuary it offers wonderful opportunities to view the night sky.

*Depending on your car hire company, you may need to leave your car in Wellington and pick a new vehicle up in Picton – this is normally easier and cheaper than taking a car on the ferry. Your consultant will be able to advise when planning your trip.

Enjoy a whale watching tour this morning before continuing onto Christchurch.

Christchurch isn’t just a city—it’s a comeback story. Once a quietly traditional city, this vibrant destination now blends historic charm with bold innovation. After rising gracefully from devastating earthquakes, Christchurch has transformed into a hub of creativity, green spaces, and unforgettable adventures. Stroll through the award-winning Botanic Gardens, hop on a heritage tram, or explore street art that turns the city into an open-air gallery. The Avon River winds gently through town, perfect for a peaceful punt ride or a riverside coffee. Nature lovers are just a short drive from beaches, alpine hikes, and the breathtaking Southern Alps, whereas foodies will fall in love with local flavours served up in stylish cafes and buzzing markets. Christchurch isn’t just the gateway to the South Island, it’s a destination in its own right!

Cross the Canterbury Plains and travel into the Southern Alps as you journey to Mount Cook.

Towering above the Southern Alps is New Zealand’s highest mountain, and the star of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Home to New Zealand’s largest glaciers and its only International Dark Sky Reserve, this World Heritage Site offers unrivalled scenery and adventure. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most rewarding short hikes in the country— offering an easy, well-maintained trail that crosses swing bridges, skirts glacial rivers, and ends with an unforgettable view of Mount Cook reflected in a milky-blue lake. For a closer look at the icy heart of the region, head to the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. You can take a boat ride across the glacial lake, floating past ancient icebergs, or lift off on a helicopter for a high-altitude glacier landing—an experience that brings the scale and grandeur of the Southern Alps into full view. Before travelling on we recommend a visit to The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. This fascinating museum tells the story of the legendary mountaineer who trained here before conquering Everest.

Cross the Lindis Pass and travel through the fruit bowl of NZ as you drive to Queenstown for the final stop of your tour.

Queenstown may be known as New Zealand’s adventure capital, but there’s far more here than bungee jumps and jet boats. For the mature traveller with a curious spirit, it offers the perfect blend of natural wonder, refined experiences, and just the right touch of adventure.

Cruise across the glassy waters of Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw, or take the Skyline Gondola to panoramic views that will leave you breathless (in the best way). Feeling bold? Try a gentle jet boat ride through the spectacular Dart River valley—thrilling, but perfectly manageable. Scenic helicopter flights, lake kayaking, and e-bike trails offer active ways to explore without pushing the limits.

Wander through historic Arrowtown, enjoy a wine tasting among the vines of Gibbston Valley, or treat yourself to a gourmet meal with a view of the Remarkables. Whether you’re strolling along the lakefront or exploring alpine trails, Queenstown invites you to rediscover your sense of wonder—at your own pace.