1 Auckland: Welcome to Aotearoa

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, where you'll be greeted by your tour guide. After transferring to your downtown hotel, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers at a renowned restaurant overlooking Waitemata Harbour. This evening, receive a comprehensive briefing on your upcoming adventure.

Accommodation: SkyCity Grand Hotel, Auckland

2 Auckland: City Exploration

Discover Auckland's highlights on a guided city tour, including the historic Auckland Domain, vibrant Viaduct Harbour, and panoramic views from the iconic Sky Tower. In the afternoon, sail across the harbor to Waiheke Island for wine tasting at premium vineyards followed by a gourmet dinner before returning to the city.

Accommodation: SkyCity Grand Hotel, Auckland

3 Bay of Islands: Northland Discovery

Journey north to the subtropical Bay of Islands region. Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand's most significant historic site, with a guided tour and cultural performance. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Russell, New Zealand's first European settlement, with free time to explore its historic streets and waterfront.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Bay of Islands

4 Bay of Islands: Maritime Adventure

Embark on a full-day cruise through the Bay of Islands, searching for dolphins and other marine life. Sail through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' (weather permitting) and enjoy a lunch stop at a secluded bay. The afternoon includes optional activities such as kayaking or a guided walk to a panoramic lookout.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Bay of Islands

5 Rotorua: Geothermal Wonders

Return to Auckland before heading south to Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand's geothermal activity and Māori culture. Visit Te Puia, where you'll see the famous Pohutu Geyser and learn about Māori arts and crafts. This evening, experience a traditional Māori hāngī feast and cultural performance.

Accommodation: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

6 Rotorua: Adventure and Relaxation

Begin the day with an exhilarating ziplining adventure through ancient forests. Later, visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley for a guided walk through the world's youngest geothermal system. End your day with a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Polynesian Spa overlooking Lake Rotorua.

Accommodation: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

7 Napier: Art Deco City

Travel east to Napier, a coastal city famous for its Art Deco architecture rebuilt after a 1931 earthquake. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city's unique buildings, followed by wine tasting in the renowned Hawke's Bay region, known for its exceptional Chardonnay and Syrah varieties.

Accommodation: Art Deco Masonic Hotel, Napier

8 Wellington: The Capital City

Continue south to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Visit Te Papa, the national museum, for an immersive journey through the country's history, culture, and natural environment. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant on the vibrant Cuba Street, known for its eclectic atmosphere and cuisine.

Accommodation: Intercontinental Wellington

9 Nelson: South Island Gateway

Cross the Cook Strait on a scenic ferry journey to the South Island. Upon arrival in Picton, drive through the beautiful Marlborough wine region to Nelson, known for its arts scene and proximity to three national parks. Enjoy an afternoon visit to a local artisan gallery and brewery.

Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson

10 Abel Tasman National Park: Coastal Paradise

Spend the day exploring Abel Tasman National Park's golden beaches and turquoise waters. Choose between a guided kayaking tour or a scenic walk along a section of the famous coastal track. Look out for fur seals, dolphins, and native birds while learning about the area's natural and cultural history.

Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson

11 Franz Josef: Glacier Country

Journey down the West Coast, with stops at the unique Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Continue to Franz Josef Glacier, where vast valleys of ice extend nearly to sea level. Upon arrival, take a guided rainforest walk to view the glacier from a distance.

Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef

12 Queenstown: Adventure Capital

Travel through the dramatic Haast Pass to Queenstown, with photo stops at pristine Lake Wanaka and the historic gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown. Arrive in Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the spectacular Remarkables mountain range. Enjoy a gondola ride to Bob's Peak for panoramic views and dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant.

Accommodation: Heritage Queenstown

13 Milford Sound: Natural Wonder

Take an unforgettable full-day excursion to Milford Sound, the crown jewel of Fiordland National Park. Journey through breathtaking alpine scenery before boarding a cruise to experience the fiord's towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Return to Queenstown in the evening for a farewell dinner celebrating your New Zealand adventure.

Accommodation: Heritage Queenstown

14 Queenstown: Departure

Your New Zealand Explorer journey concludes after breakfast. Transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Aotearoa. Optional extensions to further explore the South Island can be arranged.