Auckland (New Zealand) | Christchurch / Otautahi (New Zealand) | Queenstown (New Zealand) | Rotorua (New Zealand) | Te Anau (New Zealand) | Wellington (New Zealand)
The following are Signature: New Zealand, Milford Sound & Maori Culture tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Welcome to New Zealand. Your expedition begins in Auckland, the vibrant "City of Sails," nestled between two sparkling harbours. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel to settle in. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing and introductions before sitting down for your welcome dinner.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Start your morning in central Auckland at Miller's Coffee Roastery, tucked away on Cross Street. Inhale the rich aroma of small-batch coffee and meet the team embodying New Zealand's famous can-do spirit with their 40-year-old original blend. Drive northwest toward the wild Tasman Sea, where ocean spray meets the dramatic black sands of Muriwai Beach. Stand near the bustling gannet colony as crashing waves echo against the cliffs, absorbing stories of Kaipara Harbour's early export history. Later, retreat to Vineyard Cottages in historic Waimauku wine country. Gather fresh vegetables directly from the garden, prepare a relaxed lunch under the veranda with your host, and sip local wine, craft beer, and refreshing fruit shrubs.
Experience a land where rich heritage and coastal beauty weave together effortlessly. Begin in Auckland's vibrant urban core, where independent roasteries celebrate New Zealand's food culture. Journey northwest to the dramatic black-sand coastline of Muriwai Beach, before an intimate home-hosted lunch at Vineyard Cottages featuring fresh local ingredients and seasonal specialties.
Leave the coast behind and head south into the green heart of the North Island. Pause en route for a shared lunch before gaining access to a privately owned Waitomo glowworm cave. Meet the owner and a leading ecology specialist to discuss the delicate subterranean environment. Step into the cool darkness of the cavern, where thousands of shimmering glowworms ignite the ceiling like a galaxy of blue stars. Continue to Rotorua, a region defined by its geothermal energy, where columns of steam rise gracefully from the earth. Settle into your hotel for a relaxing dinner, listening to the distant hiss of thermal vents as night falls.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Travel through the scenic Waitomo countryside before exploring the spectacular Spellbound Waitomo Caves. Meet one of New Zealand's leading cave ecology and conservation specialists, discover the fascinating underground world of glowworms, and explore pristine caverns on a private tour while learning about the region's unique geology and ongoing conservation efforts.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Immerse yourself in Indigenous traditions at the Maori-owned Kohutapu Lodge. Connect deeply with local hosts through stories and ancient customs that reveal a profound relationship with the land. Witness the unearthing of a traditional hangi lunch, which has spent hours slow-cooking over white-hot stones in an earth oven. Savour the rich, smoky flavours of this communal feast before departing. On your return, pause to witness the raw power of New Zealand's volcanic landscape, exploring bubbling mud pools, steaming geothermal valleys, and soaring geysers. Spend a free evening soaking in the unique spiritual atmosphere of Rotorua at your own pace.
Connect with New Zealand's indigenous Maori culture at Maori-owned Kohutapu Lodge through a meaningful cultural experience that shares traditional customs, stories, and ways of life. Enjoy a traditional hangi lunch, slow-cooked in an earth oven using techniques passed down through generations.
Take flight over the volcanic plateau to Wellington, New Zealand's creative capital. Upon arrival, step behind the scenes at the world-famous Weta Workshop, the special effects studio responsible for bringing cinematic masterpieces to life. Marvel at the intricate artistry of authentic props and costumes before checking into your hotel. In the afternoon, visit He Tohu to view the nation's foundational documents, including the Treaty of Waitangi and the Women's Suffrage Petition. Conclude with a private tour of the striking Beehive parliamentary complex, uncovering the history and unique governance systems of this progressive island nation.
Step into the behind-the-scenes world of hobbits, dragons and other fantastical movie creatures. The Weta Workshop is where the props and models for films like The Lord of the Rings, Avatar and the Amazing Spiderman 2 are designed and brought to life.
Explore New Zealand's history and democracy with visits to Parliament, known as the Beehive, and He Tohu at the National Library. Learn about the country's system of government and view the nation's founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Women's Suffrage Petition, and the Treaty of Waitangi.
Fly from Rotorua to Wellington, traveling from the geothermal landscapes of the North Island to New Zealand's vibrant capital city.
Begin with a private guided tour of Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum, uncovering its vast treasures and Maori artefacts before a high tea lunch. Enjoy a restful afternoon to explore the city's artistic laneways at your leisure. As twilight approaches, visit Zealandia, a pioneering eco-sanctuary tucked into a valley. Enjoy a private dinner within the sanctuary before stepping into the forest just as darkness falls. This is when the native wildlife stirs; look and listen for the elusive kiwi bird, tactile tuatara reptiles, and frogs as your guide shares inspiring tales of successful conservation and ecological restoration.
Discover New Zealand's rich art, history, and natural heritage on a guided visit to Te Papa Tongarewa, the country's national museum. Following the tour, enjoy a museum-inspired high tea featuring locally inspired flavours in a unique cultural setting.
Explore Zealandia at dusk, when the eco-sanctuary comes alive with native birdlife and wildlife. Wander through this protected sanctuary during the transition from day to night for exceptional opportunities to observe New Zealand's unique species in their natural habitat.
Fly south to Queenstown, watching the snow-dusted Southern Alps rise majestically outside your window. Travel into the rugged wilderness of Fiordland, pausing at a historic local farm. Here, enjoy a working dog and shearing demonstration, learning about the region's agricultural history, land management practices, and the modern shift toward environmental conservation. Continue your drive as the landscape grows increasingly grand and untamed. Arrive in the lakeside haven of Te Anau, checking into your accommodation before gathering for a hearty dinner that features the wild, rustic flavours of the South Island high country.
Visit a working farm station beneath the stunning Remarkables Mountains, with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, Ben Lomond, and Cecil Peak. Meet the head farmer for a guided experience showcasing daily station life, New Zealand's wool industry, and the skill of local sheep dogs during a demonstration.
Fly from Wellington to Queenstown, trading the capital's coastal charm for the dramatic mountains and alpine landscapes of the South Island.
Venture along the spectacular Milford Road, passing through hand-carved tunnels into the heart of Fiordland. Board a premium vessel for a small-group cruise through the breathtaking waters of Milford Sound. Sip a glass of sparkling wine on arrival and settle into a panoramic lounge for a chef-curated seasonal tasting menu. Glide beneath the sheer rock face of Mitre Peak and feel the spray of Stirling Falls cascading from glacial heights. While onboard a marine specialist reveals the sound's ancient geology, Maori legends, and delicate conservation efforts while scanning the dark waters for fur seals, penguins, and bottlenose dolphins before returning to Te Anau.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Cruise the full length of Milford Sound aboard a purpose-designed vessel while taking in dramatic fiord landscapes, including Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls. Enjoy a seasonal tasting menu and onboard commentary highlighting the region's geology, Maori heritage, and conservation efforts, with opportunities to spot seals, dolphins, and seasonal penguins from indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Return to Queenstown through spectacular alpine valleys, stopping at a local vineyard to savour a lunch of seasonal, estate-grown cuisine, beautifully paired with crisp, regional cool-climate wines. After lunch, visit a preserved gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown. Walk the historic, dust-settled streets where the rough-and-tumble gold rush of the 1860s once roared, imagining the immense hardships of early miners and the rugged transformation of this wild region. Arrive back in Queenstown for an evening on your own.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore the beautifully preserved gold rush settlement of Arrowtown, set along the banks of the Arrow River. Discover its historic streets and heritage buildings while listening to insights into the region's 1860s gold rush, early settler life, and the lasting impact of gold mining on Otago's culture and economy.
Enjoy a free morning to soak up the alpine atmosphere of Queenstown. In the afternoon, step aboard the historic vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to cruise the deep blue waters of Lake Whakatipu. Arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm for a private garden-to-table experience, starting with seasonal tastings gathered directly from the estate's kitchen gardens and orchards. Join a guided conservation walk through the grounds, with the opportunity to plant a native tree. Conclude this peaceful afternoon with an elegant high tea featuring locally sourced ingredients, gaining deep insights into New Zealand's delicate ecology.
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a garden-to-table experience showcasing New Zealand's local produce and sustainability practices. Explore the estate's kitchen gardens and orchard, sample seasonal ingredients, learn about conservation efforts on a guided peninsula walk, and enjoy a high tea featuring locally sourced and homegrown flavours.
Fly north to Christchurch, a city celebrated for its resilience and creative rebirth. Upon arrival, embark on a bespoke culinary and cultural walking tour led by a local Maori guide. Taste your way through vibrant markets and hidden eateries while listening to the city's history from an Indigenous perspective. Check into your hotel with an evening at leisure. Armed with tailored recommendations from your Expedition Leader, explore the city's innovative architecture, tranquil botanical gardens, and independent restaurants that showcase Canterbury's fertile agricultural bounty.
Fly from Queenstown to Christchurch, leaving the dramatic alpine landscapes behind for the cultural highlights of New Zealand's South Island.
Explore hidden laneways and riverside trails with local Maori guides while discovering the stories, traditions, and heritage that have shaped the region. Along the way, enjoy seasonal kai (food) and inu (beverages) at local establishments, each offering a unique connection to the area's history and culture.
Travel to the spectacular Banks Peninsula and the charming, French-influenced coastal town of Akaroa. Board a private boat into the sheltered harbour, scanning the shimmering water for the Hector's Dolphin-the smallest marine dolphin on Earth, found only in New Zealand. After the cruise, explore the town's historic streets and enjoy a delicious lunch. Return to Christchurch and conclude with a farewell dinner, toasting your unforgettable discoveries with your fellow travellers.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore the volcanic harbour of Banks Peninsula on a dolphin cruise offering opportunities to observe rare Hector's dolphins, marine wildlife, and dramatic coastal landscapes. Return to the historic French-influenced village of Akaroa, where a local historian will guide you through the region's history over lunch and an engaging discussion. Afterwards, you'll explore the waterfront, heritage architecture, and charming local shops.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your expedition through the natural wonders and living heritage of New Zealand concludes this morning. Savour a final breakfast at your hotel-transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: New Zealand, Milford Sound & Maori Culture tour:
21 Viaduct Harbour Avenue
Auckland, New Zealand-1010
9 Hereford Street
Christchurch, New Zealand-8013
38/54 Lake Esplanade
Queenstown, New Zealand-9300
1135 Arawa Street
Rotorua, New Zealand-3010
64 Lakefront Drive
Te Anau, New Zealand-9600
2 Grey Street, Wellington Central
Wellington, New Zealand-6011
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: New Zealand, Milford Sound & Maori Culture tour:
Max 22
Signature Moment: Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Waitomo CavesYour Foodie Moment: Maori Heritage & Local Flavours Walk, ChristchurchSignature Moment: Akaroa Dolphin Charter, Akaroa. Arrival and departure transfer. Kumeu wine region food and wine experience. Maori cultural experience at Kohutapu Lodge with traditional hangi lunch. Geothermal experience in Rotorua. Weta Workshop tour. Parliament and He Tohu National Library visits. Private guided Te Papa Tongarewa Museum tour with high tea lunch. Zealandia twilight wildlife experience with private dinner. Remarkables Station farm experience. Premium Milford Sound cruise with seasonal tasting menu. Winery lunch. Arrowtown visit. Walter Peak Garden-to-Table experience. Maori-led food and cultural walking tour in Christchurch. Private Akaroa Dolphin Cruise. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles.
Gain access to a private cavern, exploring thousands of glowing insects with a top ecologist, Connect with Indigenous traditions at a Maori-owned lodge before an authentic earth-oven lunch, Sail past cascading waterfalls and sheer peaks while enjoying a seasonal tasting menu, Savour a private dinner inside an eco-sanctuary before a guided twilight wildlife trek, Board a private vessel to spot Hector's dolphins before exploring a historic French village
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase—such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name—along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.
Hotels (12 nts)
12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 6 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites—delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.
Private Vehicle, Walking, Plane, Boat
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.It is not customary in New Zealand to tip service providers, but if you do experience outstanding service it is good to do so. Such service would only usually be in places like quality restaurants and it would be very rare that you would tip more than 10%.