It’s true that sheep outnumber people in New Zealand six to one, but lucky for ewe, this untamed land also boasts an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning fiords. The North Island’s Bay of Islands sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of New Zealand’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting geysers are only surpassed by the South Island’s soaring Southern Alps, which you’ll reach from charming Christchurch by way of the scenic TranzAlpine train. Throughout your tour of New Zealand, you’ll have the opportunity to admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier, warm your toes in natural hot springs, and partake in all of the fun that Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” has to offer. With so many ways to work up an appetite, you’ll appreciate a special barbecue on a local farm and dinner at a New Zealand family’s home. On this 14-day tour, you’ll discover the best of New Zealand from top to bottom.
Auckland to Queenstown trip; 14 days; 10 cities
Highlights:
- Cruise Through the Bay of Islands & Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds - Start with a scenic cruise in the stunning Bay of Islands and step back in time at the historic Waitangi Treaty House, where New Zealand’s founding document was signed on February 6, 1840.
- Rotorua’s Geothermal Marvels & Māori Culture - Explore bubbling geysers and silica terraces, visit a kiwi conservation hatchery, and immerse yourself in authentic Māori traditions—including a warm hangi feast and cultural performances.
- TranzAlpine Train Across the Southern Alps - Board the legendary TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Travel through dramatic gorges and Alpine terrain, with panoramic windows showcasing some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Adventure Capital & Milford Sound Excursion - Set against majestic snow-capped peaks, Queenstown offers optional adrenaline activities (jet‑boat rides, zip‑lining, Lord of the Rings tours), capped by a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound—a UNESCO World Heritage fjord famed for towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Welcome to Aotearoa, Māori for “land of the long white cloud.” Your room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule your flights to arrive by 4:30pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner.
Meal: Dinner
Day 2: AUCKLAND–BAY OF ISLANDS
Start your day with a sightseeing tour of Auckland, the “City of Sails.” See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. Continue to the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beauty and history. Before arriving at your resort, visit the historic Waitangi Treaty House.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: BAY OF ISLANDS
This morning, embark on a sightseeing cruise. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to stroll the beach, explore some of the island’s historic attractions, shop for souvenirs, or just relax at your hotel.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 4: BAY OF ISLANDS–ROTORUA
Today, travel through the Bay of Plenty region to Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders, adventure activities, and a thriving Māori culture
Meal: Breakfast
Day 5: ROTORUA
This morning starts with a guided tour and visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Next, visit Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. This afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to relax in a natural hot spring, zipline through the forest, or board a floatplane for flightseeing of this beautiful region. This evening, join a Globus Local Favorite New Zealand family for dinner in their home, a unique opportunity to interact with a local family and immerse yourself in New Zealand culture. Before the evening is over, you’ll feel like part of the family.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: ROTORUA–MARTON–WELLINGTON
Travel south today through rolling farmlands and pass massive Lake Taupo. After lunch, continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: WELLINGTON
Our day begins with a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbour from the top of Mount Victoria. You’ll also spend time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 8: WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH
Fly to Christchurch located on New Zealand’s south island. Christchurch was named after the city in England that has the same name and has a history of English heritage. A sightseeing tour highlights some of Christchurch’s famous landmarks and spectacular gardens. This evening is at leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 9: CHRISTCHURCH–TRANZALPINE TRAIN–ARTHUR’S PASS–FRANZ JOSEF
Today, take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the scenic TranzAlpine. Spend the next two nights in the small town of Franz Josef, located at the base of the impressive Franz Josef Glacier.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: FRANZ JOSEF
This morning, explore this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage area. Admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier on a locally guided tour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 11: FRANZ JOSEF–QUEENSTOWN
Our journey today takes us along the coast and the Tasman Sea. Climb through rainforests and over Haast Pass to arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Upon arrival, enjoy a tour and a tasting at a local Globus Local Favorite winery. Tonight, you’re free to enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown’s many restaurants or cafes and sample some of the regional wines.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 12: QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND
Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling, as the “eighth wonder of the world.” Late evening return to Queenstown.
NOTE: The excursion to Milford Sound may happen on Day 13 depending on weather and road conditions today.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13: QUEENSTOWN
Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. Tour some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy, shop for souvenirs, or take a thrilling jetboat ride on the dart river. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: QUEENSTOWN
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.
Meal: Breakfast
Please contact our Travel Advisors for details.
Tour Code: GJ
