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12 Days AIR/10 DAYS LAND: The Perfectly Paced First-Time Tour to New Zealand

New Zealand Discovery

12 Days Air travel time: 10 Days, 9 Nights Land Journey. Begin in Queenstown, Milford Sound, Rotorua, Maori Culture, Hobbiton, Mount Maunganui and Auckland

14D: MAJESTIC AUSTRALIA 23D: AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND COMBO 12D: NEW ZEALAND DISCOVERY
14D: Majestic Australia
23D: Australia/New Zealand Combo
12D: New Zealand Discovery
Best First Time Journey to New Zealand

Featuring Shangri-La & Sofitel Brands


See Full ItinerarySEE ITINERARY | DATES & PRICES | FAQs | MAKE A RESERVATION

Meet Journey's New Zealand Tour: New Zealand's North and South Islands

EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND — 
Arrive on the South Island of New Zealand to Queenstown, and take in the amazing sights including Milford Sound. Then we head to the North Island and Rotorua. We delight in Hobbiton and the Lake Karapiro area and finally on to Auckland.

★ Included for both Deluxe and Classic:

• Meet & Greet Airport Transfer direct to our hotel in Queenstown, whenver you arrive!
• Sightseeing Tours and Admissions, On-Tour Transfers
• Luggage Portage
• Queenstown: Jewel of the South Island, Milford Sound
• Welcome Dinner in Queenstown
• Rotorua: Volcanic Tubes, Amazing Wine, Waitomo Caves and the Maori culture
• Lake Karapiro: Hobbiton and the heart of the North Island, Stunning beauty and unique experiences
• Mount Maunganui, Pilot Bay and the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Region
• No annoying Up-Selling while on tour
• No Big Buses or Groups, No Long Lines
• On Tour Transportation with Included Portage: Micro-coach, Jet Travel (quoted separately), Ferries
• PRIVILEGED ACCESS: Skip-the-Long-Line Admissions with special access
• Local English-Speaking Expert Guides and Now Journey Tour Captain
• SMALL GROUP BENEFITS: Small group up to 16 guests of like-minded travelers
• No Hidden Costs: Fees, taxes and gratuities excluding the Tour Captain

★ Deluxe vs. Classic inclusions:

• Hand-Picked hotels: Deluxe 4+ to 5 Star Hotels featuring a full, hot breakfast with coffee, juice as well as table service. Classic 3 to 4 Star Hotels feature a light, continental breakfast.
• UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY DINING: Unlimited Premium Beverages: Deluxe: 13 Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 5 Journey Style Dinners/Canapés. Classic: 9 Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 1 Journey Style Welcome Dinner in Queenstown (Classic guests can upgrade to the 5 Total Dinners Included Package).

Land of the Maori: New Zealand

SUMMARY OF DAILY ITINERARY

  • PRE-TOUR OPTION TO AUSTRALIA: INQUIRE ABOUT COMBINING AUSTRALIA WITH NEW ZEALAND
    Melbourne. Great Ocean Road. Sydney. Ayer's Rock. Sunshine Coast. Great Barrier Reef.
  • QUEENSTOWN, 3 Days, 3 Nights
     Enjoy the South Island's jewel of Queenstown, Milford Sound and the beauty of New Zealand.
  • ROTORUA, 2 Days, 2 Nights
  • LAKE KARAPIRO, 3 Days, 3 Nights
    Hobbiton comes to life as we explore the landscapes from The Lord of the Rings
  • TOUR FINALE: AUCKLAND, 1 Day, 1 Night
    Afternoon arrival to freshen up and celebrate one last evening on the North Island


 

 

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Chapter 1: Queenstown

DAY 1: Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, NZ

This morning we make our way to the airport for the flight to Queenstown (quoted separately). Upon arrival, we make our way to the hotel, check in, freshen up and enjoy a Discovery Walk.

Nestled amidst the Southern Alps and bordered by the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown boasts unparalleled natural beauty. The stunning alpine scenery, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the crystal-clear lake, creates a picturesque setting that captivates visitors with its breathtaking charm.

Orientation Walk IconDiscovery Walk: Queenstown

Meet the Tour Captain in the lobby for a walk-through of Queenstown.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome Dinner: The cuisine of New Zealand kicks off the dining experience

Tonight you will join your Journey Tour Captain for a special welcome to Queenstown dinner complete with premium beverages and wine from the region.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: The Spire Hotel or Similar


DAY 2: THE MILFORD SOUND EXPERIENCE

Milford Sound

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Milford Sound Cruise & Fiordland National Park

Embark on a captivating adventure this morning as we traverse towards Milford Sound, a jewel nestled within the heart of Fiordland National Park. Indulge in the splendor of a scenic cruise through the awe-inspiring sound, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes that shimmer in the sunlight, and cascading waterfalls that add a touch of enchantment to the landscape. Elevate your experience with the included round-trip scenic flights, providing a bird's eye view of the dramatic mountain ranges, revealing the untouched beauty of this natural wonderland. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature as you witness the interplay of light and shadow on the rugged terrain, making this journey an unforgettable exploration of New Zealand's unparalleled landscapes.

We return to Queenstown to enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Queenstown at your leisure.

DAY 3: DAY AT LEISURE ON THE SOUTH ISLAND

Savor a full day of relaxation and exploration in and around Queenstown, where optional excursions await to enhance your experience. Delve into the thrill-seeker's paradise with an adrenaline-pumping adventure, such as bungee jumping off the historic Kawarau Bridge or embarking on a heart-pounding jet boat ride through the breathtaking Shotover Canyon. For a more serene escape, consider a scenic gondola ride up Bob's Peak, treating yourself to panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Southern Alps. Alternatively, indulge in a leisurely wine-tasting tour through the nearby Central Otago vineyards, immersing yourself in the region's renowned cool-climate wines and picturesque landscapes. With a myriad of optional excursions catering to varied interests, your day at leisure in Queenstown promises to be a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Options to consider today:

Option: Shotover River Jet Boat

Option: Nature Tour with Guide

Option: Tour to Te Anau

Perhaps it's a day for a spa experience, or the exciting Shotover River Jet Adventure or a Nature Tour in a 4WD vehicle —  the options are endless — inquire for details.

Tonight, join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or enjoy exploring at your leisure.

Chapter 2: The North Island

DAY 4: Welcome to Rotorua

Embark on a journey to Rotorua, a region of unparalleled natural beauty and cultural significance. As you make your way to the airport, anticipate the breathtaking landscapes that await in this geothermal wonderland. Rotorua is renowned for its otherworldly geothermal features, where bubbling mud pools, hissing geysers, and vibrant hot springs create a surreal and captivating atmosphere. The air is filled with the distinct scent of sulfur, adding to the unique ambiance of the area. Immerse yourself in the rich Maori culture by attending a traditional performance or visiting a living Maori village, where ancestral traditions come to life. With its stunning geothermal wonders and cultural treasures, Rotorua promises an unforgettable exploration of New Zealand's natural and historical splendors.

Upon arrival we make our way to our hotel, check in and freshen up and then enjoy a discovery walk.

Discovery WalkDiscovery Walk
This afternoon meet the Journey Tour Captain and your fellow travelers for our Discovery Walk.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome Dinner

Tonight we entertain your palette with cuisine with a Maori twist along with wines from New Zealand.

Prosecco IconSpecial Now Journey Experience
After dinner we enjoy a special walk through the Redwoods Nightlights Treewalk Experience —  this amazing walk features 28 suspension bridges through redwood trees that are over 120 years old.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Pullman Rotorua or Similar

 

DAY 5: Rotorua Lakes, Volcanic Valley and Maori Culture

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Rotorua Explorer
Explore the wonders of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley for an intimate encounter with its geothermal marvels. Guided by an expert, gain insightful interpretations as you traverse the crater walkways, marveling at the spectacular geothermal features. The experience is truly awe-inspiring, offering breathtaking views of the stunning Rotorua Lakes along the way.

Tonight join the Tour Captain for an optional dinner or explore at your leisure.

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Chapter 3: Welcome to Middle Earth

DAY 6: LAKE KARAPIRO

As we venture towards Lake Karapiro this morning, the tranquil waters mirror the surrounding lush landscapes, creating a breathtaking tableau of natural beauty that captures the serenity and allure of this enchanting area. Nestled in the embrace of rolling hills and vibrant greenery, Lake Karapiro unfolds as a serene haven, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the captivating charm of its pristine surroundings.

Prosecco IconJourney Dinners IconReception & Canapés

Enjoy a Canapés Reception at our favorite lodge on the north island.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 3 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Lake Karapiro Lodge or Similar


DAY 7: HOBBITON EXPERIENCE

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Hobbiton Movie Set + The Green Dragon Inn
We make our way to Hobbiton today to explore this fascinating and beautiful area of the North Island. Step into the enchanting village of Hobbiton in the heart of the Mighty Waikato region. Here we will explore the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided walking tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Hobbiton stands as a testament to the enchanting world brought to life by J.R.R. Tolkien's imagination, offering visitors a uniquely immersive experience. Nestled in the lush hills of the Waikato region, the meticulously crafted hobbit holes, vibrant gardens, and charming details make a visit to Hobbiton a truly fascinating journey into the heart of Middle-earth.

Journey Dinners IconExclusive Dinner
Following our visit and exploration of the Shire, a delightful culmination awaits as we indulge in a lavish banquet feast, meticulously crafted to emulate the hearty and wholesome fare befitting a Hobbit, all within the warm and welcoming confines of The Green Dragon Inn.

DAY 8: LAKE KARAPIRO

Indulge in an entire day at leisure, allowing you to bask in the captivating beauty of the surroundings at Lake Karapiro while pampering yourself with rejuvenating spa services or embarking on invigorating hikes through the nearby trails. For those seeking more adventure, optional excursions include exploring the vibrant local markets or taking a scenic boat ride to discover hidden gems along the lake's shores.

Journey Dinners IconDinner Tonight: BBQ

Savor a delectable barbecue feast under the open sky tonight, surrounded by the picturesque grounds of the estate.

 

Chapter 4: Welcome to Auckland

Day 9: TO AUCKLAND

Great Barrier Reef

As we journey to Auckland this late morning, the city's skyline unfolds, adorned with modern skyscrapers set against the backdrop of the sparkling Waitematā Harbour. Embraced by the diverse landscapes of lush greenery and volcanic cones, Auckland's enchanting beauty seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the serenity of its natural surroundings, inviting exploration and admiration.

Enjoy the day at leisure after a short Discovery Walk. Tonight join the Tour Captain for a night of special experiences.

Prosecco IconOur Special Journey Finalé
Meet early evening for our special Canapés to celebrate our time together. Our days have been filled with new adventures and friends.

Journey Dinners IconFarewell Dinner

Enjoy dinner with the Tour Captain tonight. Dinner included in Deluxe,

inquire to upgrade to add dinners.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation, 1 Night

Deluxe: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour or Similar

DAY 10: DEPARTURE DAY

Opt for our departure transfer for $66 per person to the Aucklan Airport (airport code: AKL) or inquire about extending your stay. Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure.

 

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