Kiwi Discovery

Itinerary

Day 1 Auckland to Rotorua

Leaving Auckland, we head to one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions, the Waitomo Caves. Try one of the many optional caving activities such as Cave Tubing in The Ruakuri Caves, or abseil into unspoilt nature via the “Lost World Tandem Abseil”. Then it’s on to “Boiling Rotorua”, New Zealand’s thermal wonderland. (D)
Overnight: Motel

Day 2 Rotorua

Morning sightseeing of Rotorua, then its out to the Whakarewarewa Maori Village where we discover the Maori lifestyle, history and customs. Learn about traditional wood carvings and weaponry before we enjoy a Maori concert followed by a typical Maori meal known as a “hangi”. We finish our day with a scenic gondola ride at Mt Ngongotaha followed by some awesome downhill luge rides. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Motel

Day 3 Rotorua to Taupo

First to the raging waters of the Huka Falls near the Wairakei geo-thermal area, before reaching Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. We then travel past the very active Mt Ruapehu before we reach the nation’s capital, Wellington. Tonight we’ll visit a local restaurant. (B)
Overnight: Motel

Day 4 Taupo to Wellington

Travel around the very active Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe before we reach the nation’s capital. A guided city tour introduces us to the delights of Wellington, with some free time to explore the city.
Overnight: Hostel

Day 5 Wellington to Nelson

A guided tour of Wellington starts our day, before we board our inter-island ferry and cross Cook Strait. On arrival at Picton, we re-board our coach for a picturesque drive to Nelson, home of the best weather in New Zealand! (B, D)
Overnight: Motel

Day 6 Nelson

A day to explore the Nelson region, perhaps hike the coastal track or explore the clear waters and golden beaches of the Abel Tasman National Park on a kayak tour. Perhaps try your hand on a 4WD bike tour or horse trek, and the Nelson skydive is a blast! (B, D)
Overnight: Motel

Day 7 Nelson to Christchurch

On to Kaikoura where weather permitting, optional cruises are available to spot the mighty sperm whale or, if you prefer, swim with the dolphins in their natural environment or do a scenic Peninsula walk. Our late afternoon drive brings us to the city of Christchurch. Tonight a meal out. (B)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 8 Christchurch to Fox Glacier

Our day begins with a drive across the Canterbury Plains, then we cross the very impressive Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass. Next stop Hokitika, famous for it’s greenstone. Grab a greenstone tiki (Maori pendant), they make a great souvenir. On to Westland National Park, whose main attractions are Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 9 Fox Glacier to Queenstown

An optional guided tour of Fox Glacier is a great experience as we walk up frozen rivers of ice. Continuing southwards, we climb Haast Pass and on through Wanaka and the Southern Lakes. Our destination today is Queenstown. (B, D)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 10 Queenstown

Queenstown is of course the home of bungy jumping and there are many jump sites from which to choose. Try river boarding, a jetboat ride or rafting. The options are endless! The walks are also great with stunning scenery on top of Queenstown Hill or stroll the banks of Lake Wakatipu. (B, D)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 11 Queenstown to Milford Sound

Today we’ll pass the beautiful township of Te Anau as we travel on our way to Fiordland National Park and the incomparable Milford Sound. Here our scenic cruise takes us past towering tree-lined cliffs and spectacular waterfalls. (B, D)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 12 Queenstown to Lake Ohau

A morning at leisure to further enjoy the adventure playground of Queenstown before making tracks past the historic Kawarau bungy site, and on through the Lindis Pass – travelling through “Lord of the Rings” territory. Tonight’s accommodation is at Lake Ohau, where our lakeside lodge has stunning views of Mt Cook. Time to enjoy a sunset drink with friends. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 13 Lake Ohau to Christchurch

Time this morning to enjoy the amazing scenery as we make tracks for Christchurch. We’ll pass the very beautiful Lake Pukaki and spend some time at the equally beautiful turquoise coloured Lake Tekapo. We then cross the Canterbury Plains, arriving at Christchurch in the early evening. (B)