New Zealand by Air

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Meet fellow travelers for lunch before taking a short walking tour of Auckland, New Zealand’s most cosmopolitan city, known as the “city of sails” and the Polynesian capital of the world. This evening, gather in our hotel for a welcome reception and dinner.

Embark on a special guided art walk along Queen Street to see works that were inspired by Waihorotiu, the stream that once shaped this valley. We follow the historic path of its tributaries from the volcanic slopes of Rangipuke (Albert Park) to the original shore, examining pieces that reflect Auckland’s evolving landscape since Apihai Te Kawau, paramount chief of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, allocated land for the city. After lunch at a local favorite, set out on an America’s Cup sailing experience…as part of the crew! The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Take the helm of a yacht or simply sit back and enjoy the action as we sail the Auckland Harbor. Afterward, make a stop at the Auckland Art Gallery to explore more toi Māori (Māori art).

Board a charter flight from Auckland to Rotorua, where we visit Ohinemutu, an ancient Māori Village where descendants of the first inhabitants reside today. Venture into areas that are not open to the public, seeing inside Te Papaiouru Marae, the meeting house. Starting with a traditional mihi, or welcome, be entertained by captivating tales from Māori history and learn about the region's original settlement. The location was chosen for its lakeside setting and abundant geothermal energy for cooking, bathing, and heating. This afternoon, visit the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about the kiwi, their native environment, and what makes them truly iconic. We then bid farewell to Rotorua and take a charter flight on to Wellington.

At Zealandia, the world’s first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary, walk among native wildlife living in the wild. Our guides use their knowledge of birdsong, habitats, and local flora to track the rare and unique animals living there. Following lunch, ride a cable car from the city center up through the hillside, terraced with houses to the Botanic Gardens. Enjoy dinner at leisure this evening.

This morning, visit “The Beehive” Parliament Building to learn about the New Zealand government and the innovative technology used to “quake-proof’” the city’s historic buildings. Afterward, visit the Alexander Turnbull Library, where Zealand’s most significant historical documents are on display: the Declaration of Independence of the United Tribes of New Zealand, the Treaty of Waitangi, and the Women’s Suffrage Petition. This afternoon, discover the treasures and stories of New Zealand’s land and people at Te Papa National Museum of New Zealand.

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Christchurch, or Ōtautahi in Māori. Embark on a walking tour, stopping to sample iconic kiwi flavors and hear the stories behind them from local shop owners—from traditional ways of sourcing food and connecting with the land to modern-day specialties. Conclude with a scenic punt along the Avon River. Enjoy dinner at leisure this evening.

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Te Matatiki Toi Ora, the Arts Centre,  which is New Zealand's largest collection of heritage buildings and spans a entire city block. Go behind the scenes to see spaces that are not open to the public. Continue to the renowned Botanic Gardens and see why Christchurch is called “The Garden City.” After lunch, enjoy time at leisure or an opt to visit Quake City, a special exhibition from Canterbury Museum charting the aftermaths of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes through stories of heroism, hope, and loss.

This morning, we board the TranzAlpine train for a ride across the Canterbury Plains into high country and the rugged mountain ranges of Arthur’s Pass National Park. After exploring the park, return to Christchurch via road, stopping at the family-owned Middle Rock Farm. Our hosts give us the history of the farm as they take us around the property with stunning views of the mountains and braided rivers of the Lake Coleridge area. Watch a dog mustering demonstration and hear about current issues facing New Zealand farmers today.   

Transfer to the airport for our commercial flight to Queenstown, the ‘Adventure Capital’ of New Zealand. Take a walking tour of Arrowtown, a gold rush village established in 1862 during the height of the Otago Gold Rush. The settlement grew quickly as pioneers constructed cottages, shops, and churches, more than 60 of which can still be seen today. Enjoy lunch at a local winery before getting ready for a thrilling jet boat experience on the world-famous Shotover Jet. Our expert driver takes us skimming through the shallows in mere centimeters of water, blasting past the canyon walls, rocky outcrops, and boulders.

Today, we take a helicopter ride through Fiordland National Park, taking in the spectacular rivers, valleys, and mountains with blue-green ice falls on our way to Milford Sound. Upon arrival, embark on a private cruise to see the sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers, and rainforest. We may spot dolphins in the water and seals basking on the rocks. Return to Queenstown via helicopter while enjoying more breath-taking views of the Fiordland mountains. Have lunch in Queenstown, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Reconvene this evening to toast our journey at a farewell reception and dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to Queenstown airport for flights returning home.