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New Zealand Encompassed: A Journey Across Both Islands
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Tailor-make this holiday from £2,435pp
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Here’s What Your Amazing Holiday Could Look Like...
INCLUDES: Flights, Accommodation, Car Hire & Activities
This epic, 21-day adventure takes you through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the geothermal wonders of the North Island to the Alpine lakes and fiords of the South. Along the way, get immersed in Māori culture, sip local wines, and embark on outdoor adventures, from glowworm caves to stargazing.
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Planning your holiday
Hi I'm Chloe and as a Travel Consultant I'm here to make sure you find the exact holiday you want. This Journey itinerary is just one example for what's possible when you travel with us. Get in touch ...
Your Example Itinerary
Days 1-2
Fly from London to Auckland
Days 3-4
Auckland
Begin your journey in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and a fusion of urban life and natural beauty. Stroll along the Viaduct Harbour, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about Māori history, and hop on the ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting and coastal walks. For panoramic views, ascend the Sky Tower or hike up Maungawhau (Mount Eden).
Stay: 4-star Rydges Auckland
Why not add a Wilderness Experience Nature Tour from £85pp?
Your accommodation
Days 5-6
Rotorua
Drive south to Rotorua, the geothermal heartland of New Zealand. Witness bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and thermal springs at Hell’s Gate, where you can also enjoy a healing mud bath. Visit Te Puia to for a snapshot of Māori culture, including a traditional hāngī feast. Finally, don’t miss a walk through the towering Redwoods Forest or a soak in the lakefront hot pools.
Stay: 4-star Rydges Rotorua
Why not add a Raft the Kaituna River experience for £55pp?
Your accommodation
Days 7-8
Taupō (via Waitomo)
Stop at Waitomo on your way to Taupō and explore the famous Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny bioluminescent creatures illuminate the underground caverns. In Taupō, marvel at the thundering Huka Falls, take a cruise to see the Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, or unwind in natural geothermal hot pools. If you’re feeling adventurous, chat with your Flight Centre Travel Expert about skydiving over the lake.
Stay: 5-star Hilton Lake Taupō
Why not add the Huka Fall Jetboat from £51pp?
Your accommodation
Day 9
Napier
Drive east to Napier, a coastal town famous for its Art Deco architecture and world-class wineries. Stroll along Marine Parade, take a guided tour of the beautifully restored 1930s buildings, and enjoy wine tasting at one of the vineyards around Hawke’s Bay.
Stay: 4-star Scenic Hotel Te Pania
Your accommodation
Days 10-11
Wellington
Arrive in New Zealand’s vibrant capital, Wellington, a city known for its creative arts scene and lively waterfront. Visit Te Papa, the national museum, for an interactive look at New Zealand’s history. Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens and explore the bustling Cuba Street for great dining and boutique shopping. If time allows, visit Zealandia, a tranquil conservation sanctuary, home to native wildlife.
Stay: 4-star Rydges Wellington
Why not add a Seal Coast Safari from £83pp?
Your accommodation
Days 12-13
Nelson
Cross to the South Island by ferry and head to Nelson, gateway to the incredible Abel Tasman National Park. Take a scenic coastal walk, kayak in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on vast swathes of secluded golden beaches. Nelson is also home to a thriving arts community, so don’t miss its galleries, craft beer scene and delicious ice cream.
Stay: 4-star Tides Hotel
Why not add a Seals, Bridges and Walk experience from £43pp?
Your accommodation
Day 14
Blenheim
Travel through the Marlborough wine region to Blenheim, a must for wine connoisseurs. Taste your way around world-renowned vineyards, particularly those famous for Sauvignon Blanc. Take a scenic bike ride through the vineyards or visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre for a glimpse into WWI and WWII aircraft history.
Stay: 4-star Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Your accommodation
Day 15
Kaikōura
Drive down the coast to Kaikōura, a marine-life paradise. Take a whale-watching tour in search of giant sperm whales, or join a dolphin encounter to swim alongside playful dusky dolphins. Sample fresh seafood, including the famous Kaikōura crayfish, and take in the dramatic coastal views on the Peninsula Walkway.
Stay: 4-star Sudima Kaikōura
Your accommodation
Day 16
Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch, where innovation meets tradition. Stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, visit the central city’s contemporary art galleries, and explore the lively Riverside Market. Go punting along the Avon River or head to nearby Sumner Beach for a laid-back coastal stroll.
Stay: 4-star Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Why not add a Guided Crater Rim Walk from £117pp?
Your accommodation
Days 17-18
Lake Tekapo
Travel inland to Lake Tekapo, known for its striking turquoise waters and breathtaking night skies. Visit the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, soak in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, or hike up Mount John for panoramic views of the Mackenzie Basin. At night, why not take a stargazing tour in the world-renowned Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.
Stay: 4-star Peppers Bluewater Resort
Why not add a Dark Sky experience from £96pp?
Your accommodation
Days 19-21
Queenstown
End your journey in Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Ride the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over Lake Wakatipu, relax in Japanese-inspired Onsen, or experience thrilling activities like bungy jumping and jet boating. For a more laid-back experience, take a day trip to historic Arrowtown, visit local wineries, or enjoy a lakeside dinner as you reflect on your incredible journey.
Stay: 5-star Hotel St Moritz Queenstown MGallery
Why not add a Milford Sound Cruise departing Queenstown from £117pp?
Your accommodation
Day 22
Auckland
Travel back to Auckland for one final night before your onward flight tomorrow. If you wish to extend your stay in the South Pacific, speak to your travel expert who can assist with adding cruises, flights, activities, accommodation and more.
Stay: 4-star Sudima Auckland Airport
Your accommodation
Days 23-24
Depart Auckland and return to the UK
Chat to Us About Tailor-Making Your Trip!
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Your holiday
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