Today we fly to Auckland, located in the northern part of New Zealand; the cosmopolitan city of Auckland is the largest metropolitan area in the country. The geographical location of Auckland is such that it lies between the Hauraki Gulf of the Pacific Ocean to the east, the low Hunua Ranges to the southeast, the Manukau Harbour to the southwest, and the Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and northwest. The region is also the site of Auckland Volcanic Field, comprising of around 50 volcanoes. This is perhaps the most vibrant and bustling city in New Zealand. Auckland is also the biggest Polynesian city in the world, a cultural influence reflected in many different aspects of city life.
Overnight: Auckland
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we begin our tour of Auckland. Travelling via Auckland's 'Golden Mile', our tour takes us through the university grounds past many of Auckland's historical buildings. We will make a stop at the Parnell Rose Garden before continuing to Parnell Village, the Central Business District, the Mission Bay area, Tamaki Drive, and the Harbour Bridge before our visit to the Auckland Museum. Three expansive levels tell the story of New Zealand's history, from emergence as a nation through the loss and suffering of war, to their uniquely ancient natural history and priceless Maori and Pacific treasures.
Overnight: Auckland
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning as we depart from Auckland we will travel to the crest of Mt Eden and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city. This dormant volcano, complete with crater, allows us to clearly view Auckland's setting between two harbours. We leave the 'City of Sails' and travel south through the rich farmland of the Waikato region before arriving at the world-famous Waitomo Caves. Here we will experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns and glowworm caves. After this unique experience we continue on to Rotorua, an area of abundant geothermal activity. Rotorua is in the middle of what is called the Taupo Volcanic Zone, which runs from northeast to southwest across the North Island. The area has long been a popular spa area and the locals make use of the hot steam that rises to the surface for heating their homes, cooking, and building their own private hot pools. This afternoon we will visit the Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts and Crafts Centre. Here we will discover boiling pools of mud and geysers that spout up to 30m. Tonight we will enjoy a Maori Hangi and cultural performance of song and dance.
Overnight: Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we fly to Christchurch, the "Garden City" located on New Zealand's scenic South Island. Following the 2010-2011 earthquakes, Christchurch has re-emerged as a vibrant, ever-changing city. Re:START is an outdoor retail and café precinct built in fashionably presented shipping containers. Opened in October 2011, the Re:START container mall offers a unique shopping experience, a number of food caravans and a market. We will explore the city by foot, partly on an open top bus, and possibly have time for you to relax in a punt on the Avon River.
Overnight: Christchurch
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
A short flight takes us to the jewel of the South island, Queenstown. Queenstown is situated on Lake Wakatipu and location is stunning; the lake is beautiful and the surrounding mountain scenery adds to the overall splendour. At some point in our time in Queenstown we will take a gondola ride to the top of a mountain for a panoramic view of the town. Depending on the timing of todays flight, you may have some free time for an orientation walk upon arrival in Queenstown. Queenstown has a compact and sophisticated downtown area tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Dwarfed by the surrounding mountains, there are amazing views from everywhere. You may choose just to relax, wander the streets, and soak up the atmosphere of the region. Or, you may wish to join one of the optional excursions available, such as a lake cruise, wine tour, jet boating, or a local garden tour.
Overnight: Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we join a guided tour into Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Many stunning photo stops and nature walks are made along the Milford Highway to make sure you get your special photographs of one of the most spectacular places in the world. We will cruise the length of the Milford Sound fiord beneath sheer cliff heading to the Tasman Sea and stop by amazing natural features, towering waterfalls and seal colonies. On occasion dolphins, whales and the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin may be present.
Overnight: Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to airport as your tour through the land Downunder comes to an end.
Meals: Breakfast