Best of New Zealand

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, and spend two nights exploring its vibrant waterfront, beautiful harbours and volcanic landscapes. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, explore the Auckland Domain and Mount Eden, and enjoy the lively Viaduct Harbour.

Drive to Rotorua, renowned for its geothermal activity and rich Māori heritage. Visit Te Puia to see the spectacular Pohutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools and geothermal springs, before experiencing traditional Māori culture.

Continue to Napier, situated in the picturesque Hawke’s Bay region. Explore the city’s distinctive Art Deco architecture and enjoy a stroll along the waterfront. Visit Bluff Hill Lookout for impressive views across the bay, with the option to explore some of the region’s renowned vineyards and sample its excellent local produce.

Travel south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Explore the waterfront and visit Te Papa Tongarewa, the country’s national museum, before taking the iconic cable car to the Botanic Garden. Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Victoria and spend time discovering Wellington’s cafés, restaurants, galleries and lively cultural scene.

Next is Nelson, a charming city known for its sunshine, arts and beautiful natural surroundings. Explore the city centre with its craft studios and visit the Centre of New Zealand for wonderful views across the region. There is also the opportunity to visit nearby Abel Tasman National Park, renowned for its golden beaches, forests and spectacular coastline.

Continue across the South Island towards the rugged West Coast, enjoying spectacular scenery along the way, before arriving in Greymouth. Explore this historic coastal town, taking in its dramatic coastline and wild landscapes. Consider a trip to Shantytown Heritage Park to learn more about the region’s gold-mining history.

Travel south along the spectacular West Coast to Franz Josef - one of New Zealand’s most famous glacier destinations. Take a scenic walk through the rainforest towards Franz Josef Glacier and enjoy magnificent views of the Southern Alps. For a truly memorable experience, a scenic helicopter flight over the glaciers can be arranged at a cost (weather permitting).

Continue to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, situated on the beautiful shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic mountains. Take the Skyline Gondola for spectacular panoramic views, explore Queenstown Gardens and enjoy the town’s lively restaurants and cafés. Experience some of Queenstown’s famous activities, including jet boating and bungy jumping!

Travel to tranquil Te Anau, the gateway to the spectacular Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the beautiful scenery around Lake Te Anau and visit the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves. A highlight of your stay is the included Milford Sound Day Cruise along the scenic Milford Road to Milford Sound, providing unforgettable views of towering mountains, dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

Move on to Dunedin, a city renowned for its Scottish heritage, Victorian architecture and beautiful surrounding landscapes. Explore the impressive Dunedin Railway Station and consider travelling out to the Otago Peninsula, known for its wildlife, including albatross, seals and penguins. There is also the opportunity to visit historic Larnach Castle.

Travel through some of the South Island’s most spectacular scenery towards Aoraki/Mount Cook - New Zealand’s highest mountain. Enjoy the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and magnificent views of the Southern Alps. Take a scenic walk on the Hooker Valley Track, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and enjoy exceptional stargazing, for which Mount Cook is famous (weather permitting).

Complete your journey in Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island. Explore the revitalised city centre, Cathedral Square and the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

Return your car to Christchurch airport for your onward journey home.