Today we will take the ferry and enjoy a beautiful hike up Auckland's youngest Island and volcanic crater, Rangitoto. This Iconic Island in the heart of Auckland feels like a world away for the millions who call Auckland home. An easy climb through the pōhutukawa forest and lava fields gives way to panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the summit of this volcanic island. Return to Auckland in the afternoon.

We'll have some free time after returning to the hotel before a group dinner at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

This morning, we will ferry out to Waiheke Island to enjoy a guided tour of the Island, stopping at several boutique wineries such as Casita Miro, Kennedy Point Winery, and Stonyridge for wine tastings. We will finish our time at Mudbrick Winery, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch with incredible views out over the Hauraki Gulf towards Auckland City. 

We'll return to Auckland in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at one of the beautiful waterfront restaurants that line the Viaduct Harbour.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Today we'll depart the 'City of Sails' and head south to Rotorua, a hot spot for Māori culture and geothermal activity. En route, we will visit Hobbiton and The Shire's Rest, the only remaining film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies (included activity). 

Arrive in Rotorua in the late afternoon and perhaps explore Kuirau Park mud pool reserve and view the stunning government gardens and lakefront. This afternoon/evening, you could experience a relaxing soak in the thermal waters of the famous Polynesian Spa (optional – extra cost).

We'll plan on a group dinner tonight at 7:00 pm at a local restaurant.

Lodging:

Regent of Rotorua

Address: Ground Floor/1191 Pukaki Street, Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 348 4079

Our first stop for the day is Waimangu Volcanic Valley - a Wonderland of Stunning Geothermal Activity. We will visit the world's largest hot spring, sinter terraces, and stunning hot and cold pools of many colors. We'll also enjoy a cruise above the once-famous Pink and White Terraces buried by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886 (included activity). 

We will enjoy an authentic cultural experience at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village) this evening. In the summertime, Te Pā Tū offers their Summer Harvest Celebration experience, "Tū Te Rā." Tū Te Rā is a summer celebration aligned with the Maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar. This is when the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tū Te Rā celebrates the abundant harvest of this season and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Māori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine.

Lodging:

Regent of Rotorua

Address: Ground Floor/1191 Pukaki Street, Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 348 4079

This morning we will return North to Auckland, stopping en route at the magical Waitomo. This region is New Zealand's most extensive underground caving network. Here we will take a guided tour through the spectacular caves to see the impressive glow-worms that light up the cave roof.

Following this, we will continue to Auckland, departing the North Island and flying south to New Queenstown. Queenstown is a beautiful town on Lake Wakatipu's shores, surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps. 

Dinner tonight will be at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400

This morning we'll enjoy some free time to explore Queenstown at leisure and participate in some fantastic activities this 'Adventure Capital of the World' offers. Options for the adventurous include Skydiving, Bungy Jumping, Jet Boating, Canyon Swings, White Water Rafting, Flyboarding, and Paragliding. If you feel like taking a more relaxed approach to the day, a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw 100-year-old steam ship or a walk through Queenstown's Botanic Gardens are not to be missed. Perhaps drive out to the head of Lake Wakatipu and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Glenorchy area. 

In the evening, we'll regroup to enjoy a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak, including a gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour at Walter Peak. First, enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Then, take in the spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. 

After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400

Rated one of the world’s “Top Ten Classic Hikes,” the Routeburn Track is a must-do. This track combines personal achievement and awe-inspiring scenery to make this trip unmissable. We will enjoy a relaxed pace stroll on the half-day walk through the breathtaking forest. Surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and native birds, you will be transported to a world of peace. In other words, this is the ultimate alpine adventure. 

We will dine atop the hill tonight in the exclusive Stratosfare restaurant with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu across to The Remarkables.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400

Today is a chance to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka. 

This morning we will visit one of Lake Wanaka's five islands Mou Waho Island is the most remote and beautiful. With its steep rocky coastline, small secluded beaches, diverse birdlife, and a hidden lake (Arethusa pool) which sits atop the island. 

Following this, we will enjoy a wine tour with Wanaka Wine Tours. This small group wine tour offers a relaxed and personal introduction to the wines and scenery of the Central Otago region. This tour is a great way to explore award-winning vineyards hidden amongst the rugged landscape of Central Otago. Visit and enjoy tastings at 4 Central Otago vineyards, including a delicious mid-afternoon platter to enjoy with your tastings. We'll also discover the region's history with a visit to Old Cromwell Town, a charming heritage precinct that has been revitalized into a boutique arts and crafts village.

After our wine tasting, we'll plan on a group dinner at a local restaurant at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400