Contrasts of New Zealand

On arrival in Auckland, you will be met and transferred to Stamford Plaza Auckland for 2 nights. This evening, join the rest of the group for a welcome dinner. (D)

Morning tour of Auckland’s city sights including Bastion Point, the War Memorial and Viaduct Harbour. (B)

Travel through the King Country region and, upon arrival in Rotorua, take a short orientation tour followed by a visit to Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you may spot the kiwi bird. This evening experience a Maori hangi feast (food cooked over hot stones) and concert. Stay overnight at the Millennium Hotel. (B, D)

Fly to Queenstown today and stay at the Millennium Hotel for 3 nights. (B)

Journey over the Devil’s Staircase and along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau and its lake, the largest in the South Island. Travel through Fiordland National Park, a world heritage area of glaciers and mountain ranges. Continue to Milford Sound with photo opportunities at scenic sights en route. Join a lunch cruise on Milford Sound before returning to Queenstown this evening. (B, L)

Day at leisure to explore Queenstown; choose from a range of optional excursions including a ride on the exhilarating Shotover Jet, or a cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw including a barbecue lunch at the Colonel's Homestead. This evening join your travel director for dinner at The Boatshed, with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. (B, D)

Journey through Central Otago on the way to Franz Josef, making stops at the historic mining village of Arrowtown and the town of Cromwell. Pass the lakes of Wanaka and Hawea before finishing at Franz Josef with an overnight stay at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat. (B, D)

This morning take a tour of the city followed by tea at the home of Tim and Isabelle Weston, owners of Britten Stables. This evening there will be a farewell dinner. (B, D)

Morning or afternoon transfer to Christchurch airport to fly home or continue your holiday. (B)