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New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure
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New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure
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Length
14 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Auckland (New Zealand)
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Ends in
Queenstown (New Zealand)
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Available Tour Start Dates
JAN 14, 2028 to NOV 7, 2028
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Activity Level
No Rating Provided
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Language
English
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).No
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$13,690.00
Overview
New Zealand is one of the world's favorite travel destinations – and on our newest journey you'll travel by private charter plane, train and boat... spend multiple nights in the heart of New Zealand's favorite cities... attend a sheep dog demonstration, do some wine tasting, and have adventures in unique destinations along the way.
Embark on a 14-day journey that weaves together New Zealand's awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant culture, and timeless traditions – every moment is a step into a world of wonder. Learn about the powerful haka of the All Blacks... explore magical forests... and discover the cultural traditions of the Maori. Travel in style aboard a scenic train that reveals dramatic coastlines and lush vineyards, and enjoy the exclusive comfort of private charter flights that connect you seamlessly to the heart of each destination. Cruise tranquil sounds, scale scenic heights, and marvel at the ingenuity of both nature and history. Each day brings a new story, from serene farm vistas to alpine adventures. This is more than a trip – it's an unforgettable family narrative crafted by New Zealand's treasures.
Visited During Tour
Auckland (New Zealand) | Blenheim (New Zealand) | Christchurch / Otautahi (New Zealand) | Kaikoura (New Zealand) | Queenstown (New Zealand) | Rotorua (New Zealand) | Wanaka (New Zealand)
Dates, Offers & Prices Dates
Tour Itinerary Itinerary
More Details Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure tour dates available from Tauck. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
Tauck Tour Code NZ2028
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Day
1Arrive Auckland
Tour begins 5:30 PM. A transfer is included from Auckland Airport to Park Hyatt Auckland, in the vibrant heart of the city overlooking Waitematā Harbour. Tonight, join us for a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Accommodations: Park Hyatt Auckland -
Day
2New Zealand rugby, a visit to the Sky Tower, and free time in Auckland
Today you'll learn about the significance of rugby in New Zealand with a visit to the All Blacks, the New Zealand national rugby union team. Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a two-hour guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka; you can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in the hands-on, interactive zone. Following your visit, take in sweeping panoramic views of Auckland and its surrounding harbors from the Sky Tower's observation deck, a breathtaking vantage point in the heart of the city. The remainder of the day is free to explore as you choose.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: Park Hyatt Auckland -
Day
3Glowworm caves and on to Rotorua
Travel south from Auckland this morning through New Zealand's rolling countryside and farmland to the Waitomo region, renowned for its remarkable limestone caves and glowworms. Here, enjoy a personalized guided experience that takes you into an extraordinary underground world, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the darkness. Explore the limestone formations on foot, then glide gently through the caves aboard a raft, beneath a canopy of shimmering blue-green lights. Following lunch at a local dairy farm, continue to Rotorua, a region celebrated for its geothermal landscapes and rich Māori cultural heritage. Check in at Pullman Rotorua, then enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel's Barrel & Co. restaurant.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Accommodations: Pullman Rotorua -
Day
4A nature adventure or unique hot springs experience today in Rotorua
Today, explore New Zealand's geothermal wonders at Te Puia, including the spectacular Pohutu (Big Splash) geyser. Discover Māori cultural traditions through a special welcome, with opportunities to learn about Māori arts and crafts. National schools teaching the traditional crafts of woodcarving, weaving, and stone and bone carving are represented at Te Puia, along with a conservation center helping to protect New Zealand's avian icon, the kiwi. Enjoy lunch here before choosing your afternoon activity. Take the Rotorua Canopy Tour – a forested network of swing bridges, platforms, and zip lines high above the forest floor – as you journey through ancient native forest on six zip lines and two swing bridges. Alternatively, visit Wai Ariki Hot Springs, where a restorative experience grounded in Māori traditions and Ngāti Whakaue culture takes you from heat to cool, mud to water, and air to steam. This evening is free, with an optional opportunity to experience Redwoods Nightlights, an illuminated forest walk featuring 34 lanterns designed by David Trubridge, suspended among the towering redwoods.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: Pullman Rotorua -
Day
5Farms, gardens & New Zealand wine
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Rotorua Airport for a scenic charter flight to Blenheim. Upon arrival, head to Meadowbank Farm, where you'll enjoy an authentic farm experience, including a sheepdog demonstration that showcases the remarkable partnership between these skilled animals and their handlers. A sheep-shearing demonstration offers insight into New Zealand's agricultural heritage and the art of wool production. Afterwards, enjoy lunch with a wine pairing at the acclaimed Harvest Restaurant, known for its commitment to local produce, sustainable practices, and fresh regional cuisine. Take a scenic drive to Chateau Marlborough; this evening, have dinner at the hotel, featuring some of the region's finest produce.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Accommodations: Chateau Marlborough -
Day
6Marlborough Sounds Cruise and a train journey to Kaikoura
Depart for a mid-morning private luncheon cruise through the Marlborough Sounds, a vast network of sunken valleys, islands, secluded bays, and fjord-like vistas at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy the scenery as you sail through sheltered waters that are home to dolphins, seals, and seabirds, with lunch served onboard. Return to Picton for a journey aboard the Coastal Pacific train. From rugged coastal cliffs and jagged outcrops to sprawling vineyards and charming farmsteads, this rail journey offers an unforgettable showcase of New Zealand's diverse landscapes. As the train winds its way along the eastern coastline, you'll be treated to sweeping views of beaches, farmland, and dramatic sea vistas. Following the Main North Line through the South Island, the Coastal Pacific traverses a route steeped in history. Construction of the railway overcame geographical, geological, and political challenges spanning more than 70 years, while the devastating 2016 Kaikoura earthquake required extensive rebuilding. Arrive in Kaikoura late this afternoon for dinner at your hotel.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: Sudima Kaikoura -
Day
7Exploring the Kaikoura Peninsula
The day begins with an exclusive Kaikoura Wildlife Encounter Cruise aboard the Moana Nui, exploring the region's rugged coastline and the remarkable marine life for which Kaikoura is known. Your knowledgeable captain and crew will lead you in search of dusky dolphins, seals, and albatross soaring above the waves. As the boat cruises along the coastline, you'll witness the dramatic contrast between the turquoise waters and towering mountains, creating an unforgettable setting for wildlife viewing. The afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura as you wish – stroll through town, enjoy lunch at a local café, or discover more of the peninsula's spectacular coastal scenery. This evening, gather for dinner at The Pier, a local restaurant overlooking the waterfront.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: Sudima Kaikoura -
Day
8Along the coast to Christchurch
This morning, depart Kaikoura for a scenic drive south along New Zealand's eastern coastline, passing through rolling farmland and small country towns, with stops along the way to enjoy the scenery. Arrive in Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, where you'll have an opportunity to explore Riverside Market, a lively gathering place filled with local food vendors, cafés, and specialty shops. Enjoy lunch here, choosing from a variety of dining options that reflect the region's culinary diversity. Later, check in at your hotel in the heart of Christchurch, with dinner included this evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Accommodations: Distinction Christchurch -
Day
9Punting on the River Avon and a choice of sightseeing
Exploration of Christchurch begins with an opportunity to go punting on the River Avon; punting is among the city's English traditions, like cricket, rugby, gardening, and afternoon tea, and today a punter in Edwardian attire will pole your flat-bottomed boat along the idyllic Avon from the boatsheds through the Botanic Gardens. Following lunch at the historic Curator's House, overlooking the gardens, it's your choice of afternoon activities. Take a walking tour of the city's remarkable street art with an art historian; explore Hagley Park and the riverside on a bicycle* (manual or electric, as you prefer); or hop aboard the mini train for an informative Botanic Gardens tour, with commentary highlighting the seasonal blooms, exotic plants, and landscapes of these beautiful gardens. Spend the rest of the day and evening as you please.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: Distinction Christchurch -
Day
10Wanaka's hidden vistas
A private charter flight takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown, where your first stop is Arrowtown, a charming settlement nestled along the gold-bearing Arrow River. Established during the Otago gold rush in 1862, Arrowtown is a living piece of history. Stroll through its quaint streets lined with more than 60 preserved buildings, from pioneer cottages to heritage churches, each telling a story of the town's vibrant past. Enjoy lunch at one of Arrowtown's local restaurants, surrounded by its picturesque mountain setting. Continue your journey with a scenic drive to Wanaka, where the rugged beauty of New Zealand unfolds before you. In the late afternoon, experience an exclusive Ridgeline Tour of Wanaka. Board 4x4 vehicles to explore the remote countryside of West Wanaka Station. This authentic high-country farm offers a behind-the-scenes look at New Zealand's rural life, with opportunities to see farm animals including red deer, sheep, and cattle. As you traverse the hills, take in panoramic views of Lake Wanaka that even many locals have yet to discover. Conclude your day with dinner at your Wanaka hotel.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort -
Day
11Ruby Island Cruise and Walk: Wanaka's Scenic Treasures
Begin your day with a short drive from your hotel to the heart of Wanaka, where you'll board the Dual Image for a cruise across the waters of Lake Wanaka. Your destination is Ruby Island, a picturesque gem often called the "jewel of Wanaka." On arrival, embark on a one-hour guided walk that combines history, nature, and photography. Explore the remnants of a dance hall that once thrived during Otago's prohibition era, a fascinating glimpse into the region's colorful past. Learn about the island's unique flora, including mānuka, and its connection to the region's renowned honey. Photographic opportunities abound, with the Southern Alps providing a breathtaking backdrop to the island's mix of native and exotic plants. Enjoy morning tea before returning to shore. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish in Wanaka. Stroll along the lakefront, browse boutique shops, or relax and take in the alpine views. Dinner is included this evening, with the opportunity to dine in town.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: Edgewater Resort -
Day
12South Island – bees, Queenstown & a gondola
Depart Wanaka this morning for Queenstown, stopping first for an early lunch at Kinross, a vineyard in the region's celebrated wine country. After lunch, your journey continues with a stop at Grant Family Farms' Buzzstop for a mānuka honey tasting. Sample five artisan honeys from across New Zealand, including local raw honey and premium mānuka honey. Discover the region's diverse flora and the work of its industrious bees, with an opportunity to observe them up close through a large, see-through hive. Arriving in Queenstown, ascend aboard the Skyline Gondola, traveling 480 meters above Lake Wakatipu to the summit of Bob's Peak. At the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peaks, and the town of Queenstown below. This evening is free to explore Queenstown's many restaurants and enjoy dinner as you wish.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: QT Queenstown Hotel -
Day
13Jet boating along the Dart River
Head to Glenorchy at the north end of Lake Wakatipu for an exhilarating jet boat ride* through Mount Aspiring National Park. This thrilling experience takes you along the Dart River, weaving through the park's strikingly diverse landscapes of alpine mountains, lush forests, and glacial valleys, all intertwined with braided rivers. Along the way, your guides share stories of the region's history and Māori legends, with an opportunity to explore ancient beech forest on foot. Conclude your experience with a breathtaking helicopter* flight back to Queenstown, soaring over the spectacular scenery. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure; join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: QT Queenstown Hotel -
Day
14Journey home
Tour ends: Queenstown. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from QT Queensland to Queenstown Airport. Allow three hours for flight check-in.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
More Details
Tauck is informing us of the following additional details regarding their New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure tour:
Tauck Values
The following is being included by Tauck on this tour:
- TAUCK EXCLUSIVE — Visit the All Blacks Experience and learn about New Zealand Rugby
- Travel throughout the North and South Islands aboard two private charter flights and a coastal train journey
- The magic of Kaikoura is revealed on a Wildlife Encounter Cruise, where stunning coastal vistas and the wonders of the marine world create an unforgettable adventure – and on sightseeing by Fixed Wing Plane or Helicopter
- Discover New Zealand's geothermal wonders at Te Puia, where Māori culture, art, and conservation thrive, and choose an afternoon adventure: soar through native forest on a Rotorua Canopy Tour or unwind in the rejuvenating Wai Ariki Hot Springs.
- A private cruise through the sheltered waterways and sunken valleys of the Marlborough Sounds A visit to a New Zealand farm for sheepdog and sheep-shearing demonstrations
Pricing listed above for tours is per person, in US Dollars, and is based on double occupancy. Pricing may change for other occupancy types. Pricing is based on the last time the vendor electronically sent us pricing data, which varies by vendor (usually occurs overnight or multiple times throughout each day).
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by Tauck. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by Tauck (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.