Intrepid Travel
Ultimate New Zealand
Ultimate New Zealand
See all the natural and cultural highlights of New Zealand on this 24-day journey through the North and South Islands. First, you’ll explore the sub-tropical islands, expansive coastlines and dense forests of Northland. Soak up the coastal beauty of Tutukaka – home to one of the world’s most gorgeous coastlines (as voted by National Geographic Traveller) – then hit the Bay of Islands for a full-day cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands. Go scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking in your free time before soaking up some of the local cultural history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Visit hot water beach for a swim in Coromandel, see the geothermal springs of Rotorua and go wildlife spotting in Wellington. Ram up the energy in the South Island’s ‘adventure capital of the world’ (Queenstown), then chill out in laidback Wanaka. See the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier, then cross the Southern Alps on a world-famous train journey. Between old forest landscapes, mountain-scapes and glacial hikes, you’ll soon fall head over heels for New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Activities
- Matapouri Beach – Visit
- Whangarei Falls – Visit
- Tutukaka – Poor Knights Islands Day Cruise
- Coromandel Peninsula – Cathedral Cove
- Coromandel Peninsula – Hot Water Beach
- Raglan – Fish & Chips Dinner
- Raglan – Sunset Boat Cruise
- Waitomo – Ruakuri Bush Walk
- Rotorua – Redwood Forest Canopy Walk
- Rotorua – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Rotorua – Pohutu Geyser
- Rotorua – Hangi Dinner & Haka Dance
- Taupo – Huka Falls
- Wellington – Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary
- Lake Tekapo – Mt John Lookout
- Wanaka – Mou Waho Island Cruise & Guided Nature Walk
- Franz Josef – Greenstone Pendant Carving
- Greymouth – Tranz Alpine Train Journey
Highlights
- Cruise through the scenic Poor Knights Islands on a full-day adventure on the water to see some of the north island’s natural beauty. This area is also a Marine Reserve with volcanic origins over 11 million years old, creating some pretty epic biodiversity.
- Discover the diversity of Rotorua, from unbelievable geothermal activity to rich Maori culture. Visit a Maori village for a hangi dinner and traditional haka performance.
- Admire the out-of-this-world landscapes of Tongariro National Park, from emerald green lakes to soaring volcanic peaks. If you’re up for the challenge, tackle the famous Tongariro Crossing.
- Live it up in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Whether you fancy bungy jumping, jet boating, horseback riding or wine tasting, there’s something here to entice everyone.
- Visit a local gallery in Franz Josef and carve a pendant out of pounamu while learning about the precious stone’s significance to Maori culture.
Day 1 |
A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone. Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia. You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise. Auckland, New Zealand awaits you! |
Day 2 |
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Day 3 |
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Day 4 |
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Day 5 |
A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone. Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia. You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise. Auckland, New Zealand awaits you! |
Day 6 |
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Day 7 |
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Day 8 |
Natural wonders await you in the steaming, geothermally active North Island city of Rotorua, New Zealand. Pohutu Geyser erupts several times per day, and blistering mud pools provide a truly unique sightseeing experience. When in Rotorua, tourists also visit its living Maori village, as well as Te Puia (New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute), where weaving and woodcarving is featured. Those not afraid of heights can get a bird's eye view on the Skyline Rotorua gondola, and more earthbound souls can reinvigorate themselves at the Polynesian Spa wellness center, with its hot pools and therapies. |
Day 9 |
Natural wonders await you in the steaming, geothermally active North Island city of Rotorua, New Zealand. Pohutu Geyser erupts several times per day, and blistering mud pools provide a truly unique sightseeing experience. When in Rotorua, tourists also visit its living Maori village, as well as Te Puia (New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute), where weaving and woodcarving is featured. Those not afraid of heights can get a bird's eye view on the Skyline Rotorua gondola, and more earthbound souls can reinvigorate themselves at the Polynesian Spa wellness center, with its hot pools and therapies. |
Day 10 |
Lake Taupo, New Zealand offers a premier trout fishing experience. The famed sight fishing for large Brown & Rainbow trout is arguably the finest in the world. Located New Zealand's North Island, Lake Taupo is an all year round sight fishing destination. Surrounded by high country lakes, rivers and mountain streams, the spectacular New Zealand scenery is sure to amaze. |
Day 11 |
Lake Taupo, New Zealand offers a premier trout fishing experience. The famed sight fishing for large Brown & Rainbow trout is arguably the finest in the world. Located New Zealand's North Island, Lake Taupo is an all year round sight fishing destination. Surrounded by high country lakes, rivers and mountain streams, the spectacular New Zealand scenery is sure to amaze. |
Day 12 |
On Cook Strait sits Wellington, New Zealand's charming windy city. Must-sees here include the waterfront, the lovely beaches, and the Wellington Cable Car that takes riders to botanical gardens. For cultural exposure, visit The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with its Maori national treasures and art gallery. Wellington Zoo is another key attraction, and features Tahi, a one-legged kiwi, as its mascot. |
Day 13 |
On Cook Strait sits Wellington, New Zealand's charming windy city. Must-sees here include the waterfront, the lovely beaches, and the Wellington Cable Car that takes riders to botanical gardens. For cultural exposure, visit The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with its Maori national treasures and art gallery. Wellington Zoo is another key attraction, and features Tahi, a one-legged kiwi, as its mascot. |
Day 14 |
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Day 15 |
Welcome to Christchurch, a picturesque city with English heritage. This South Island destination is currently in the midst of an exciting regeneration and rebuilding after damaging earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. Here, the new mixes with the old in enchanting ways, with edgy modern architecture and old buildings sitting side by side.
In this explorable New Zealand locale, the Avon River winds through the center of the city, while lush green spaces are plentiful at Christchurch Bonatic Gardens and Hagley Park. Can't-miss attractions include the International Antarctic Center (featuring frozen tundra simulations), the historic Canterbury Museum, and punting on the Avon, also known as flat-bottomed boat rides! |
Day 16 |
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Day 17 |
This beautiful resort town has a little something for everyone! Whether you are into skiing and snowboarding, jet boating, whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, or mountain biking there is no end to the year around adventure sports you can take advantage of. If you love wine, Queenstown lies close to the center of a small wine producing region, including The Two Paddocks vineyard which is owned by actor Sam Neill. If you're a movie buff, Queenstown and the surrounding area were used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. |
Day 18 |
This beautiful resort town has a little something for everyone! Whether you are into skiing and snowboarding, jet boating, whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, or mountain biking there is no end to the year around adventure sports you can take advantage of. If you love wine, Queenstown lies close to the center of a small wine producing region, including The Two Paddocks vineyard which is owned by actor Sam Neill. If you're a movie buff, Queenstown and the surrounding area were used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. |
Day 19 |
Nestled on the southern shores of its namesake lake, Wanaka is a charming resort town in New Zealand's South Island that offers a captivating blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear waters, Wanaka is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage area, is a haven for hikers and climbers, with trails that range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging alpine routes. In winter, the slopes of Treble Cone and Cardrona Alpine Resort come alive, drawing skiers and snowboarders to some of the best powder in the Southern Hemisphere. Wanaka isn't just about adrenaline-pumping adventures; it's also a town where visitors can unwind and soak up the laid-back Kiwi atmosphere. Stroll along the lakefront promenade, enjoy the local cafes, or explore boutique shops that reflect the area's creative spirit. Puzzling World, a quirky attraction filled with optical illusions, a challenging maze, and eccentric art, offers a unique family-friendly experience that has intrigued and entertained visitors for decades. For wine aficionados, a tour of the local vineyards provides an excellent introduction to Central Otago's celebrated pinot noirs and other cool-climate varietals. One of Wanaka's most iconic landmarks is the solitary willow tree that stands in the shallow waters of Lake Wanaka. Known simply as “That Wanaka Tree,” this lone tree has become one of New Zealand's most photographed natural wonders. The tree, often framed by the lake’s calm surface and the backdrop of the Southern Alps, is a symbol of resilience and beauty, captivating photographers and nature lovers alike. Visit at sunrise or sunset for a particularly mesmerizing sight, as the colors of the sky reflect on the tranquil waters of the lake. Fun fact: Wanaka hosts the bi-annual Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow, one of the largest and most popular airshows in the Southern Hemisphere. Founded in 1988, the event attracts aviation enthusiasts from around the globe to witness thrilling aerial displays of vintage and modern aircraft against the backdrop of Wanaka's stunning landscape. The next airshow is set to draw tens of thousands of spectators, making it a must-visit for those planning their trip around this unique spectacle. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Wanaka offers an unforgettable escape into New Zealand's natural splendor. |
Day 20 |
Nestled on the southern shores of its namesake lake, Wanaka is a charming resort town in New Zealand's South Island that offers a captivating blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear waters, Wanaka is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage area, is a haven for hikers and climbers, with trails that range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging alpine routes. In winter, the slopes of Treble Cone and Cardrona Alpine Resort come alive, drawing skiers and snowboarders to some of the best powder in the Southern Hemisphere. Wanaka isn't just about adrenaline-pumping adventures; it's also a town where visitors can unwind and soak up the laid-back Kiwi atmosphere. Stroll along the lakefront promenade, enjoy the local cafes, or explore boutique shops that reflect the area's creative spirit. Puzzling World, a quirky attraction filled with optical illusions, a challenging maze, and eccentric art, offers a unique family-friendly experience that has intrigued and entertained visitors for decades. For wine aficionados, a tour of the local vineyards provides an excellent introduction to Central Otago's celebrated pinot noirs and other cool-climate varietals. One of Wanaka's most iconic landmarks is the solitary willow tree that stands in the shallow waters of Lake Wanaka. Known simply as “That Wanaka Tree,” this lone tree has become one of New Zealand's most photographed natural wonders. The tree, often framed by the lake’s calm surface and the backdrop of the Southern Alps, is a symbol of resilience and beauty, captivating photographers and nature lovers alike. Visit at sunrise or sunset for a particularly mesmerizing sight, as the colors of the sky reflect on the tranquil waters of the lake. Fun fact: Wanaka hosts the bi-annual Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow, one of the largest and most popular airshows in the Southern Hemisphere. Founded in 1988, the event attracts aviation enthusiasts from around the globe to witness thrilling aerial displays of vintage and modern aircraft against the backdrop of Wanaka's stunning landscape. The next airshow is set to draw tens of thousands of spectators, making it a must-visit for those planning their trip around this unique spectacle. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Wanaka offers an unforgettable escape into New Zealand's natural splendor. |
Day 21 |
Accessible glacier located on New Zealand's South Island. Visitors can take guided hikes of Franz Jose to view its tunnels, crevasses and caves. |
Day 22 |
Accessible glacier located on New Zealand's South Island. Visitors can take guided hikes of Franz Jose to view its tunnels, crevasses and caves. |
Day 23 |
Welcome to Christchurch, a picturesque city with English heritage. This South Island destination is currently in the midst of an exciting regeneration and rebuilding after damaging earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. Here, the new mixes with the old in enchanting ways, with edgy modern architecture and old buildings sitting side by side.
In this explorable New Zealand locale, the Avon River winds through the center of the city, while lush green spaces are plentiful at Christchurch Bonatic Gardens and Hagley Park. Can't-miss attractions include the International Antarctic Center (featuring frozen tundra simulations), the historic Canterbury Museum, and punting on the Avon, also known as flat-bottomed boat rides! |
Day 24 |
Welcome to Christchurch, a picturesque city with English heritage. This South Island destination is currently in the midst of an exciting regeneration and rebuilding after damaging earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. Here, the new mixes with the old in enchanting ways, with edgy modern architecture and old buildings sitting side by side.
In this explorable New Zealand locale, the Avon River winds through the center of the city, while lush green spaces are plentiful at Christchurch Bonatic Gardens and Hagley Park. Can't-miss attractions include the International Antarctic Center (featuring frozen tundra simulations), the historic Canterbury Museum, and punting on the Avon, also known as flat-bottomed boat rides! |
Travel Dates | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|
10/03/25 - 10/26/25 |
Starting At $9,655 |
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10/17/25 - 11/18/25 |
Starting At $9,345 |
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12/06/25 - 12/29/25 |
Starting At $10,090 |
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12/15/25 - 01/07/26 |
Starting At $9,475 |
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01/02/26 - 01/25/26 |
Starting At $10,090 |
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01/09/26 - 02/01/26 |
Starting At $9,345 |
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01/16/26 - 02/08/26 |
Starting At $10,090 |
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02/06/26 - 03/01/26 |
Starting At $10,135 |
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02/15/26 - 03/10/26 |
Starting At $9,720 |
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02/24/26 - 04/07/26 |
Starting At $9,345 |
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10/02/26 - 11/13/26 |
Starting At $10,280 |
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11/20/26 - 12/18/26 |
Starting At $10,690 |
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12/25/26 - 02/26/27 |
Starting At $11,100 |
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03/05/27 - 03/19/27 |
Starting At $10,690 |
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04/02/27 - 04/23/27 |
Starting At $10,280 |
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Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.