This is a sample itinerary that offers a taste of what is possible on a group vacation. All of our group vacations are private and fully customizable for any group of 10 or more travelers. With the knowledge of our group specialists, tailor any tour to suit your group.
This 12-day group vacation to New Zealand showcases the highlights of the North & South Islands, including Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown.
Your trip to New Zealand begins in Auckland, known as the City of Sails, due to its active harbor. A sightseeing tour showcases the Auckland War Memorial Museum, where learn about the people, the flora and fauna, and landforms of these unique Islands.
Journey through the North Island to Waitomo, and the famous glowworm caves, where you take a short boat journey below the ground and glide through the starry wonderland. Continue to Rotorua, where in the evening, a traditional hangi feast, enjoy the traditional foods as you learn about the Maori people and history, and listen to some of their traditional songs.
Rotorua is also famous for its geothermal activity, and before leaving there is time for a tour of Te Puia/Te Ra, from geysers and mud pools to wood carving and flax weaving schools, you continue to learn more about this diverse country and its history and culture.
Our next day takes in the National Kiwi Hatchery, which is a national leader in trying to protect this endangered species. Afterward, there is some fun as you visit the agrodome and the famous sheep show, but it is so much more as you learn about New Zealand farming.
Then depart for the South Island, and arriving in Christchurch, known as the Garden City and the most English city in the nation. Your day continues with the International Antarctic Centre.
Depart Christchurch and head towards Dunedin, there is time for a stop in Oamaru before continuing on to the Royal Albatross Centre, where you can witness the fascinating social and family life of the breeding colony and have the chance to be awed by the soaring three metre wingspan of the birds flying above
Your journey continues on to Te Anau, as we travel the over the Haast Pass through the Southern Lakes to Te Anau.
From Te Anau, drive through the Fiordland National Park, where fjords cut through the green landscape, and then have your camera ready as you . Then the next day, pass through the Homer Tunnel to reach the crown jewel of the South Island: Milford Sound. Cruise this hauntingly beautiful fjord and enjoy unbeatable views of Mitre Peak.
On the final leg of your New Zealand South Island experience, head to the resort town of Queenstown. Get a sense of this adventure and resort haven on a sightseeing tour, spot some people bungy jumping off nearby bridges. End the tour with Gondola ride up to the Skyline Queenstown.