And so the journey begins! The Canterbury Plains make for pretty window views today – but we’ll be in mountain territory in no time. En route to Fox Glacier we’ll make a pit stop by the stunning Lake Matheson. Fingers crossed for good weather so you can see New Zealand’s two tallest mountain peaks reflected in the mirror-like lake!
Who’s ready to hit the ice? If the weather is good, you’ll have the chance to explore this chilly playground on a heli hike. Alternatively, you could go all-out and get a bird’s eye view on a scenic flight. Then: the adventuring continues as we roll into the adrenalin capital of NZ – Queenstown. Get your bearings on an orientation tour, then be free! The nightlife here is on a whole other level. Ice Bar, anyone?
Ready. Set. GO! Queenstown is loaded with adventure activities - and you've got two days to cram them all in! For the thrill seekers: choose from bungy jumping, jet boating, canyon swinging, skydiving or zip lining. Doesn't sound like your thing? Take the skyline gondola for some incred views over Lake Wakatipu. There's even a sky-high luge track to challenge your Topdeck buddies on. It's on! Tonight, why not hit up Fergburger for a meal that will haunt your dreams? Yep, it's that good!
Plaster your face to the window as we take the scenic route to Milford Sound for today’s main event: a cruise on the fjord, complete with thundering waterfalls and towering cliffs that will just blow your mind. Keep your eyes peeled for the resident seals and dolphins, too!
Quick! It’s your last day here. Our hot tip: sign up for some whitewater rafting on the Shotover River, or jump in a funyak (like kayaking, but better). Hungry after all of that adventuring? You’re in luck. We have an included dinner tonight at one of Queenstown’s most popular hangouts!
We’ve got an epic two-wheeled excursion in Arrowtown on the agenda today - so get ready to tone those thighs as we cycle along the banks of the Arrow River, crossing some OMG-worthy suspension bridges along the way. Later, take in all the pretty window views before hunkering down at our lodge for the night. Nestled between towering mountains and overlooking the sparkling lake, this is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a hectic few days.
We’ll have plenty of time to squeeze in a pano at Lake Tekapo before we move on to Christchurch today. Then: after an orientation tour of the city, we’ll set you free to explore. Why not take the chance to check out the nightlife while you’re here?
Spot the wild fur seals getting their tan on as we roll into Kaikoura today. And this afternoon? Channel all those mermaid/man vibes on an optional dolphin swim, or take in the wild acrobatics from above deck - these little critters love to put on a show! Then: soak up the laid back atmosphere, take a short stroll to the beach for sunset and maybe visit a local bayside vendor for the freshest of crayfish (Kaikoura literally translates to ‘eat crayfish’). This is livin’.
Onwards to Nelson. The Marlborough region is super famous for its wine - and today we’ll find out why as we swing by a Cellar Door. Ready to raise those pinkies at an included tasting session? Heck, yes! And tonight? A delicious BBQ dinner awaits...
Did someone say coastal paradise? Today is yours to explore this vibrant region. Hop from bay to bay via boat, sea kayak, on foot or see it all from above with an epic skydive. Whatever you choose, we know you’re going to love it!
Today we’ll cross the Cook Strait by ferry and sail into the blue waters of Marlborough Sound. Next stop, Wellington! Did you know? This place has more bars and restaurants per capita than the mighty NYC. It’d be rude not to check ‘em out...
Free days are the best days. Get lost in the awesome Te Papa museum or hit up Cuba Street for some quirky stores and cafés. Anyone for another night of bar-hopping later? Sign us up!
If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, why not hit up the Weta Workshop for maximum Middle Earth vibes this morning? Then: after heading to Mt Victoria for 360-degree city, harbour and ocean views, we’ll leave Wellington behind us and move on to Tongariro National Park. Get excited: tomorrow we’ll be able to roam the park as we please!
Rise and shine - we’ve got exploring to do! Known as one of the best one-day hikes in the world, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing sure lives up to its reputation – and you’ll get the chance to complete it today (weather dependent). With three volcanic peaks dominating the horizon and terrain that’ll make you feel like you’re on Mars, this hike is 100% worth the sore legs the next day. Rather have yourself a four-wheeled adventure? There’s an optional quad biking experience on offer, if you’re interested. Let’s do this!
Today we’ll swing by beautiful Lake Taupo before making tracks to Huka Falls (you’ll hear the rumble before you see them). Then: crank the heat up to the max, ‘cos we’re off to check out the area’s famous geothermal activity on an included tour. This experience comes complete with a traditional Hangi lunch – a meal of roasted meat and veggies slowly cooked in an underground oven pit. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Kiwi birds! Later, we’ll learn some Haka moves and watch a Poi dance before tucking into a delicious dinner at a traditional marae (Maori meeting ground).
Are you ready for all the optional extras your free day has to offer? Take a walk through Tolkien’s dreams at the Hobbiton movie set or head to a geothermal reserve for a relaxing mud spa. For the thrill-seekers, there’s Zorbing on offer here too (think: rolling downhill in a giant inflatable ball). When in New Zealand!
Wah! It’s the last day already? On our way out of Rotorua we’ll swing by the Waitomo Caves - a glowworm-studded labyrinth of underground caves and rivers. This place is like something out of a sci-fi movie! Choose to explore on foot, by boat or brave the cold on a unique blackwater rafting experience (trust us, it’s awesome). Later on, we’ll say hello to Auckland – and goodbye to the trip. With so much to see here, we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to stick around, though!
