DAY 1 : Auckland - Matakohe - Waipoua Forest - Omapere

Our adventure begins in Northland, the ‘birthplace of the nation’. Our first stop is the remarkable Kauri Museum in Matakohe, where we can learn about the history and significance of the mighty kauri tree. After that, we head to the ancient Waipoua Kauri forest to meet our friends from Ngapuhi, the northernmost Maori tribe. Ngapuhi serves as the guardians of the Hokianga Harbour, where Kupe, “the great navigator,” became the first person to set foot on Aotearoa. Upon arrival, our hosts welcome us with a special “Karakia,” after which we take a walk to see the magnificent kauri tree, “Tane Mahuta.” To end the day, we relax and enjoy a drink with new friends in our beachside accommodation.

ACCOMMODATION

DAY 2 : Omapere - Hokianga Harbour - Waitangi, Bay of Islands

Embark on a thrilling cruise across the harbor to the dunes where you can indulge in sandboarding or enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach. Once you return to Omapere, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the unique and immersive cultural offering of Manea – Footprints of Kupe. In the enchanting Bay of Islands, our expert guides await you at Waitangi Treaty Grounds where you can witness a mesmerizing cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house. As the day draws to a close, unwind and relax for two nights at the luxurious Copthorne Hotel & Resort.

DAY 3 : Waitangi - Bay of Islands Cruise - Russell - Waitangi

While cruising through the Bay of Islands, make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and take the opportunity to snorkel in the beautiful waters. The region is rich in both Maori and colonial history, with our trip including a stop at Russell; a charming town with a lively past dating back to the 19th century. Once referred to as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific”, it was also the first capital of New Zealand. After the excursion, you can return to Paihia and Waitangi by ferry.

DAY 4 : Bay of Islands - Kawiti Caves - Whangarei - Auckland

On our guided walk through the limestone cave of Kawiti, we were able to witness the breathtaking sight of thousands of twinkling glowworms. The caves are still owned by the descendants of Maori chief Kawiti, who began showing visitors around in the 1950s. After our visit, we made a stop in Whangarei before continuing our journey down the East Coast to stay at the Nesuto Stadium Hotel in Auckland.

DAY 5 : Auckland - Karangahake Gorge - Lake Rotoiti - Rotorua

We take a walk through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge, where we can witness its dramatic river scenery, explore the native bush and also see the remnants of the early goldmines. During our visit to a Kiwifruit orchard, we learn all about this famous fruit. The highlight of our trip is a private cruise on a new hybrid boat on Lake Rotoiti, where we get to visit secluded bays and hot pools that can only be reached by water. We will be staying for two nights at Novotel Rotorua Lakeside.

DAY 6 : Rotorua activities - Lake Tarawera lunch

After some free time to explore Rotorua’s attractions or stroll along the shores of Lake Rotorua near your hotel, we will head towards Lake Tarawera to have lunch with the Walmsley family. They have a rich history to share with us, comprising of their Maori and Pakeha (European) roots in this region, which was once renowned for the Pink and White Terraces. The lake is a beautiful spot, and we will enjoy the company of the Walmsleys while savoring the delicious lunch.

DAY 7 : Rotorua - Lake Taupo - Tongariro National Park

During our trip, we visite the surreal and geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu, which was full of bubbling mud pools, silica terraces, and deep pools in unforgettable colors. We also stop by the thundering Huka Falls and the shores of Lake Taupo before driving up to Mt. Ruapehu for panoramic views. We took a walk on a trail in the World Heritage Tongariro National Park before spending the night in a nearby location.

DAY 8 : Tongariro National Park - Ohakune - Wellington

Enjoy short walks in the beautiful region before we continue down the center of the island to Taihape, the gumboot capital of the world. Discover how far you can throw a gumboot. In Wellington, we will visit the city’s main attractions and enjoy the stunning view from Mt. Victoria. We will be staying for two nights at The Bolton Hotel, located in “the coolest little capital in the world”.

DAY 9 : At leisure in Wellington

You have the entire day to yourself to enjoy. The waterfront and Te Papa National Museum are just a short walk away, offering a range of fun activities along with some great cafes and boutique breweries. Wellington is famously known as the spiritual home of “The Lord of the Rings”, so you can also visit Weta Workshop and explore the magical world of Middle Earth.

DAY 10 : Wellington - Cook Strait - Picton - Marlborough - Nelson

We cross Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry and sail through the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to reach Picton and step ashore on the South Island. We make a stop at Forrest Estate Wines in Marlborough, which is renowned for its premier wines, to enjoy a wine tasting and lunch. We then proceed to Nelson and check-in at Tides Hotel, where we will be staying for two nights.

DAY 11 : Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson

We will be meeting our local guide at Kaiteriteri Beach from where we will embark on a catamaran and walk along the beautiful Abel Tasman coastline. You can choose to walk as much or as little as you wish, and along the way, you will witness the stunning islands, bays, estuaries, and sandy beaches. You will also get time to relax on the beach with a picnic lunch and take a swim before we head back to Nelson.

DAY 12 : Nelson - Kaikoura

The road winds alongside the stunning coastline that lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. In the afternoon, you can explore the abundant marine life in Kaikoura, which is a result of the nearby ocean canyon. There are also optional activities available, such as whale-watching flights and sunset kayaking. Our accommodation is located close to the seal colony at The White Morph.

DAY 13 : Kaikoura - Akaunui Farm - Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

Our journey from Kaikoura leads us to the Hunderlee Hills and further to the Canterbury Plains, where we are greeted by our hospitable hosts Di and Ian Mackenzie. They welcome us to their Akaunui Farm homestead, surrounded by stunning gardens, where we are served a memorable lunch. Our road trip includes a visit to the picturesque turquoise-colored lakes, Tekapo and Pukaki, which offer unforgettable photo opportunities. Finally, we reach Aoraki/Mt Cook Village located in the majestic Alps, where we will be staying.

DAY 14 : Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park - Lindis Pass - Queenstown

Embark on a journey to discover the stunning landscape of Aoraki/Mt Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand. You can take a leisurely walk on an easy track from the village, or indulge in a scenic flight over the Tasman Glacier. Later, we will drive through the picturesque golden tussock lands of the Lindis Pass and make our way to Scenic Suites in Queenstown, where we will be staying for three nights.

DAY 15 : Queenstown - Milford Sound Cruise - Scenic Flight Queenstown

We will follow the shores of the magnificent lakes Wakatipu and Te Anau as we journey towards the mountains and waterfalls of Fiordland National Park. During our trip, we will embark on a cruise that takes us on Milford Sound, which is home to seal colonies and dolphins, and is dominated by the iconic Mitre Peak. The day will end with a magnificent scenic flight over the Southern Alps, bringing us back to Queenstown.

DAY 16 : At leisure in Queenstown

Today is a great day to take advantage of the countless activities that Queenstown has to offer. Your Kiwi Guide is available to help you select from a variety of options including a jet boat ride on the Dart River surrounded by the stunning scenery from the Lord of the Rings movie, wine tasting at the vineyards, or a day hike on the famous Routeburn Track, among many other choices.

DAY 17 : Queenstown - Arrowtown - Cardrona Valley - Wanaka

Located in the picturesque village of Arrowtown, you can experience the rich history of gold mining along the Arrow River. After driving over the Crown Range and admiring the last views of the Wakatipu basin, you can stop for refreshments at the stunning Cardrona Hotel. During your stay at Edgewater, our lakeside hotel, you can enjoy activities such as biking along the waterfront trail or kayaking on the lake.

DAY 18 : Wanaka - Haast Pass - Franz Josef

Mt Aspiring National Park’s Haast Pass offers a mesmerizing experience with its well-maintained short tracks leading to cascading waterfalls and clear blue pools. While exploring the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the wild West Coast beaches and lush primeval rainforest. Before we reach Franz Josef, let’s make a stop at Lake Matheson and then stay at the Scenic Hotel to complete our trip.

DAY 19 : Franz Josef - Hokitika - Punakaiki

You have the morning free to either walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Valley lookout or opt for a helihike, flight, or a cruise out on Okarito Lagoon to search for the rare Kotuku, White Heron. Later, in Hokitika – the home of Pounamu (greenstone) – you will meet the carvers of this treasured stone. You will stay for two nights beside the beach at the Scenic Hotel, Punakaiki.

DAY 20 : Punakaiki - Paparoa National Park - Charleston - Cape Foulwind

Explore the top local attractions by taking a walk to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. The Paparoa Park offers magnificent towering limestone cliffs and karst rock formations, surrounded by river valleys of subtropical forest. While you are there, you can also take a walk to an isolated beach or to witness the seal colony at Cape Foulwind. Additionally, don’t miss out on the amazing experience of visiting the glow worm cave at Charleston.

DAY 21 : Punakaiki - Arthur's Pass - Christchurch

As we leave the West Coast, we drive towards the Otira Viaduct, a breathtaking cantilevered road that takes us to the alpine beech forests located in Arthur’s Pass National Park. During our journey, we make a few stops to take short walks in the forest and explore the fascinating rock formations at Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill. The stunning landscapes that surround us provide a perfect ending to our adventure.