Pearls of the Pacific: Tahiti, Cook Islands & New Zealand

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Departure Date

December 21, 2025

Overview

Trip Overview

This 17-day South Pacific vacation captures some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes while immersing you in the rich cultures of French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, and New Zealand. Your trip begins on Moorea, one of the most picturesque islands in French Polynesia known for its jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches. You'll enjoy stunning views from the comfort of your overwater bungalow, indulge in a culinary tour of Tahitian cuisine drawing on Tahitian, French, and Chinese flavours, and explore Moorea’s lagoon where you’ll snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. 

Your South Pacific beach vacation continues to the Cook Islands, where you will stay at a boutique beachfront island resort on the main island of Rarotonga. Close to your resort stay, discover locally produced crafts, shops, and vibrant markets. During your trip to the Cook Islands, head on an island tour, exploring highlights such as a sacred marae, an ancient gathering place for royalty, and other historical landmarks. On your leisure day, enjoy activities like visiting Black Rock Beach where you can view black volcanic rock formations or hike Rarotonga’s iconic Cross Island trail. Conclude your time in the Cooks with a full day tour of Aitutaki, home to arguably the world's most beautiful lagoon.  

Your trip to the South Pacific continues in New Zealand, beginning with Auckland.  Spend three nights in a vibrant city hotel near the main strip with an abundance of designer stores, buzzing nightlife, shows, live music, and the iconic Sky Tower. Enjoy a full-day tour of the city and surrounding nature featuring Piha’s black sand beaches and rainforest. You’ll also stop at Waiheke Island, renowned for its beautiful vineyards, olive groves, and beaches.  The excitement builds with visits to the Waitomo Caves and the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, followed by Rotorua’s geothermal wonders. Additionally, you’ll get a tour of Rotorua’s cultural centre and experience the magical Summer Harvest Celebration at Te Pa Tu with traditional Māori songs, stories, and feasting. The final stop on your New Zealand vacation is Queenstown, the nation’s adventure capital. Ride the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views and end the night with a Taste of New Zealand dinner. Conclude your trip with a full-day tour of Milford Sound including a scenic cruise through the fjord, with sights of waterfalls, penguins, seals, and dolphins.

Highlights

Departures

From Papeete:
Thursday & Sunday

 

Trip Includes

  • Airport Transfers in Papeete, Rarotonga, Auckland, Rotorua and Queenstown
  • Accommodation for 3 nights at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort with breakfast daily
  • Moorea Food Adventure Shared Tour
  • Moora Lagoon Cruise and Motu Lunch Shared Tour
  • Accommodation for 4 nights at the Pacific Resort Rarotonga with breakfast daily
  • Island Discovery Shared Tour
  • Progressive Dinner Shared Tour
  • Aitutaki Day Shared Tour
  • Accommodation for 3 nights at the Msocial Hotel Auckland with breakfast daily
  • Best of Both Worlds Shared Tour
  • Taste of Waiheke with Ferry Shared Tour
  • Auckland/Hobbiton/Waitomo Caves/Rotorua Full Day Shared Tour
  • Elite Rotorua Half Day Shared Tour
  • Evening Experience - Harvest Celebration at Te Pa Tu The Gathering Place
  • Skyline Gondola with Stratosfare Dinner
  • Milford Sound Small Group Day Tour with Picnic Lunch
     

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Visa fees, if applicable

 

Papeete to Moorea

 

Papeete Airport - International Arrival Meet and Greet

Upon arrival and after you have cleared customs and immigration, take the exit for "Visitors" and look for representative from Tahiti Tours in a red uniform who will be standing outside the arrivals hall. After being met, you will be provided with the appropriate documentation. You will receive a flower lei.

 

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Full Breakfast

Situated on the edge of a magnificent lagoon, with amazing views toward the island of Tahiti, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort features 111 luxurious bungalows built over the water, on the beachfront or surrounded by landscaped gardens. Completely renovated with harmonious colors, refined and brightly coloured design as well as modern furnishings, the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort provides an authentic cultural mix. Travelers can experience the joys of water sports, explore an island sheltered by incredible coconut plantations and taste the relaxing pleasures of the all-new LeSpa.

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

Slip into the flip-flops of a Polynesian, warm up your taste buds and join us for a half day of discovery and nibbling around Moorea! 'Tama'a' means to eat in Tahitian and that is exactly what you will do with Heimata. Tahitian cuisine draws on three cultures that intertwine and inspire each other: Tahitian, French and Chinese. During this culinary tour you will savor the unique flavors of local specialties in places where the locals love to eat. A minimum of 6 to 8 tastings, depending on the season and availability. Come huunnnngry !!

Set off on the Moorea lagoon and head for the famous Cook and Opunohu bays for an incredible view of the mountains, your guide will tell you the story of the legends of the island, its geography, flora and fauna. Then go snorkeling and admire the black tip sharks and caress the stingrays. Enjoy a BBQ on a motu, during which the famous Coco and Raw fish show will be displayed. The afternoon is leisure on the beach.

Moorea to Papeete Airport

 

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

4 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Continental Breakfast

Pacific Resort Rarotonga is located on the eastern coast of the island on the edge of the Muri Lagoon, an idyllic place to stay for any leisure getaway. The resort is set away from the main road and island traffic, spread out over 5 and half acres of tropical flora and fauna. The property is within walking distance of many small retail stores that offer locally produced crafts, apparel, and souvenirs as well as restaurants. Amongst the manicured luxurious gardens is the intimate collection of 64 studio rooms, one and two bedroom units and villas, situated in a poolside, garden, or beachfront location.

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

Island Discovery Tour

Start your holiday in the Cook Islands with an orientated cultural tour of scenic Rarotonga in a modern air-conditioned coach. Explore the history and culture of the Cook Island people in the company of your qualified, friendly tour guides. Follow the roads and paths used by our ancestors dating back to 1100AD; visit a sacred marae (ancient gathering place for royalty) and explore historical sites once inhabited by our people. Learn where the best snorkelling spots are located in Rarotonga, see why the coconut tree is known as the Tree of Life.

 

Progressive Dinner

Leave behind the familiar surroundings of your resort and venture out to local villages to experience true Cook Islands cuisine, hospitality and the real spirit of culture & lifestyle, when you visit with locals in their homes! Enjoy a Progressive Three Course Dinner, where each course is hosted in a different local home. Walkthrough the tropical garden at the home of your first host, who serves your 'first course' for the night. Then it is off to enjoy your "main course", where you will be treated to a buffet feast, similar to what you would expect at a large Cook Islands family gathering. Then, your "dessert" host will delight you with local sweets, fruit as well as tea and Atiu Island brewed coffee. When enjoying your meals at each home, you will be delighted by the sounds of local ukuleles, guitar and voices of the small string band that will accompany you throughout your local dining experience.

The day starts with a transfer from your Rarotonga accommodation and a 40 minute flight to Aitutaki. On descent, the stunning colours of the lagoon come into view and this is usually where everyone has their phone against the windows - capturing the magical landscape below. On arrival at Aitutaki, take a 45 minute tour of the island by "Les Truck" taking in views of inland plantations and the main villages. Then the highlight of the day. The renowned Vaka Cruise - six hours of cruising the magnificient blue lagoon aboard the Polynesian styled vaka Titi-ai-Tonga. Visit three (Moturakau, Akaiami, One Foot Island) small motu (islets) fringing the lagoon with time for snorkelling at each one. Experience the solitude of pristine white sand beaches and warm crystal clear water. Highlights include the iconic One Foot Island (Tapuaetai) and Akaiami - where giant TEAL flying boats used to stopover for refuelling on the famous Coral Route between Fiji, Samoa and Tahiti. Lunch is served on board. A delicious medley of barbecued pelagic fish steaks served with a variety of fresh salads and tropical fruit all sourced from local farmers. Lunch is accompanied by complimentary tea, coffee, and water, and a cash bar for wine, beer, champagne, and soft drinks is available. The day ends with an arrival back in Rarotonga at 5.30pm and a transfer back to your accommodation.

Auckland Airport to Auckland - City Centre

 

MSocial Hotel Auckland

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences. Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in. Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.

MSocial Hotel Auckland

Let Bush and Beach take you on a day tour to experience the best of Auckland sightseeing. We combine an Auckland city tour in the morning with an afternoon nature tour to the black sand beach and rainforest at Piha - a day of variety and a great introduction to Auckland and New Zealand. Your morning Auckland city tour is designed to explore the history and sights of the city. Discover the Maori history of the city and as see what makes our city a vibrant place to live. Auckland City is built around the beautiful Waitmata harbour and it is known as the "City of Sails". This city tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Mount Victoria in Devonport and Westhaven marina. There is also a stop at a cafe by a beautiful beach and lots of photo opportunities all day. Your afternoon eco tour is spent in the Waitakere Ranges. In just 30 minutes you leave behind the bustle of the city and step into the tranquillity of the rainforest. Travel to the Arataki Centre, an information centre built high on the ridge of the Waitakere Ranges. From here you get breathtaking panoramic views across the rainforest to Auckland's two harbours. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area. Continue on to the lush rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns and view New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and silver ferns. Move on to experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand of Piha beach beneath your feet as you stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer. The perfect Auckland day trip. During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits and tea and coffee or juice.

Waiheke Island boasts 92 km's of pristine beaches, stunning coastal headlands, wineries, olive groves and seaside villages and is approximately a 40-minute cruise from Downtown Auckland. One of New Zealand's most popular destinations, Waiheke Island has been rated as one of the top island escapes in the world. This best-selling culinary experience visits four iconic vineyards and artisanal producers. Highlights include: Two-course lunch and glass of wine at Batch Winery, Award-winning wine at Mudbrick Vineyard, Olive oil tasting at Allpress Olive Groves and Beer tasting at The Heke Kitchen Brewery & Distillery (vineyards may change without notice)

Auckland/Hobbiton/Waitomo Caves/Rotorua Full Day Tour

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation for an exciting journey in a spacious mini coach, with comfortable leather seating and legroom. Through your windows you will be treated to views of New Zealand's iconic farmland and Waikato Dairy country. During the day you will visit the Waitomo caves known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glow-worms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history. You will also visit the Hobbiton Movie set. This movie set has the feeling of being a real historic village, and is fascinating to lovers of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies as well as people who have not seen the movies. In 2009, Sir Peter Jackson returned to film The Hobbit trilogy, and he left behind the beautiful movie set you’ll see today. Following your guided tour you will finish your Hobbiton Movie Set experience with a refreshing beverage from the Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ - Lunch today will be at Hobbiton - After experiencing two of New Zealand's Most Iconic attractions we will take you Rotorua with it's active geysers and thermal activity and rich cultural Heritage. You will arrive at your accommodation between 4pm and 5pm.

 

Pullman Rotorua

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

Pullman Rotorua is located in the city and is only moments away from the lakefront. It is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud, natural hot springs, and magical forests. The hotel has 130 rooms and suites, a gym, Executive Lounge, vibrant restaurant, chic bar, and 4 dynamic meeting rooms with internet connectivity. The perfect base to explore the region's geothermal paradise. Conveniently located, the Pullman Rotorua is close to Rotorua Lake, Convention Centre, and Government Gardens, perfect for any traveler to this gorgeous, natural locale. Nearby hot springs and geysers make for some of the best natural baths on the planet. Tamaki Maori Village, Polynesian Spa, is just 1km away.

Pullman Rotorua

Elite Rotorua Half Day Tour

Learn about Maori customs, traditions, history and protocols new and old, with a guided tour to Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural centre. These are small group tours no more than 12 people. Spend the afternoon experiencing Rotorua’s Maori culture and geothermal activity and see how they are intricately entwined. First a guided tour through Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural attraction. This includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house and finally the Pohutu geyser. Next we visit the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs. A short visit to Kuirau Park to view a recent geothermal eruption site. Finish the day visiting the pristine and tranquil lakes of our amazing volcanic region, including views of Mount Tarawera with explanation of volcanic and Maori history.

 

Evening Experience - Summer Harvest Celebration at Te Pa Tu The Gathering Place

Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pa (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pa Tu shares Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting.  These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.    Summer: Tu Te Ra - Across this lunar phase, the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tu Te Ra celebrates abundant harvest and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Maori warfare and peace.    These can include roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember warmed kumara and restorative kawakawa tea.   Torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to a lavish but relaxed four course feast. Hangi remains hero but it shares the table with lesser-known Maori delicacies, prepared fusion style. Wagyu pincanha, Watercress chimichurri, taro gratin – even kumara ice-cream - each dish is inspired by or infused with traditional ingredients, stories, or cooking techniques. Whether dining al fresco or in our wharekai (dining room) we celebrate the spirit of hakari (feasting) and of Aotearoa, New Zealand

Rotorua - City Centre to Rotorua Airport

 

Queenstown Airport to Queenstown - City Centre

 

Skyline Gondola and Buffet Dinner Premium Window Seating

Marvel at the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Sit back and relax as the best views in the region unfold before your eyes and the Gondola carries you 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak. En route you will enjoy a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, and over Queenstown. On arrival purpose-built viewing platforms and outdoor terraces provide great photo opportunities. Then enjoy the famous Taste of New Zealand buffet which offers delectable fresh seafood, salads, roast meats, and delicious desserts, while the panoramic view from the windows will captivate you.

 

Crowne Plaza Queenstown

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan: Room Only

The magic of Queenstown is something that can’t be explained, only experienced. If you haven’t visited yet, it’s time to book your flights. Winter is the most magical time to visit Queenstown and as one of the top ski hotels, Crowne Plaza Queenstown is the perfect choice.The moment you get off the plane and look around, your worries will melt away. Whether your trip is a short weekend away or a couple of weeks long, there is plenty to keep you entertained, inspired and relaxed.Crowne Plaza Queenstown sits in the heart of Queenstown, enjoying panoramic views over The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake.Just across the road is Steamer Wharf where you will find great dining, bars and entertainment. Alternatively, you can depart from here for a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship. From luxurious bedding to spacious accommodation, we know the importance of a great night’s sleep. Every room has its own private balcony or courtyard and many enjoy beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu or The Remarkables.We provide the best facilities to ensure you have everything you need to make the most of your stay. Services include valet parking, business centre, fully equipped fitness centre, guest laundry, ski/bike storage, 24 hour room service and babysitting on request. threesixty Restaurant is one of Queenstown’s best eateries. Our expert chefs use only the freshest produce to create mouth-watering local dishes.

Crowne Plaza Queenstown

This Milford Sound day tour was established in 1994 and is a top-rated small group Milford Experience. It allows guests to escape the crowds and offer a truly unique day, showcasing this world famous region. On this full-day tour to Milford Sound enjoy guided commentary touring to and from Milford Sound with our experienced guides. These small group tours give guests the ability to get to know the driver and each other, creating a more personal and memorable experience. Once in Milford Sound, join a stunning 1-hr 45-min small boat nature cruise on the fiord - see waterfalls, fur seals, penguins, and occasionally dolphins. Enjoy fun and informative commentary from your nature guide, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track visits away from the crowds. Enjoy custom made, 16 seat, glass roof Mercedes touring vehicles. This is business class travel with extended legroom, leather interior and panoramic windows for the best views. Travelling to Milford is a 12-13 hour day from Queenstown. The smaller vehicles give the opportunity to stay away from the crowds as well as more flexibility with where we stop on the journey.

Queenstown - City Centre to Queenstown Airport


Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.