Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your private driver who will accompany you on your transfer from the airport to your hotel. In addition, you will also receive a welcome package that includes a welcome letter, a detailed itinerary, vouchers for each service, a contact list for the suppliers, and various brochures of the destinations you will be visiting. This comprehensive package will be made available to you upon your first service.

Your private guide will pick you up today for an Auckland city tour. Auckland, also known as the City of Sails, is New Zealand's largest and busiest city, set on 48 volcanic cones. This morning tour is designed to show you the history, sights, and sounds of Auckland, as well as give you a glimpse into how locals live and play. You will visit Auckland University, Domain, Harbour Bridge, Queen Street, and enjoy stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city from Mount Victoria on the North Shore. The tour also includes a visit to Auckland's Westhaven Marina, showcasing the city's love for sailing. After this personalized experience, you will be taken back to your accommodation.

Fullers Ferry can take you to Waiheke Island, a beautiful destination just 40 minutes away from downtown Auckland. This island offers sandy beaches, vineyards, native bush settings, a pristine coastline, olive groves, and laid-back seaside villages, all within its 35 square miles.

If you decide to visit Waiheke Island, you have the option to explore its wineries. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit up to four vineyards. If you prefer, one vineyard can be replaced with an olive oil tasting or a visit to an artist studio. Your guide, who has extensive knowledge and experience with wines, will provide informative and entertaining commentary throughout the day. Waiheke Island is also known as New Zealand's Island of Wine, with many vineyards to choose from. Examples of wineries you may visit include Obsidian, a boutique winery established in 1993, which specializes in producing a great Bordeaux-style red. Kennedy Point vineyard, on the other hand, offers a variety of wines such as Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, Chardonnay, and Rosé. During your visit, you may also have the opportunity to taste manuka and pohutukawa honey, estate-grown olive oil, and New Zealand avocado oil. Kennedy Point's Syrah has received multiple awards, including the International Syrah Trophy, the New Zealand Syrah Trophy, the New Zealand Red Wine Trophy, and the Auckland Syrah Trophy at the International Wine Challenge. The tour starts at 10.00 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m. Please note that lunch and the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke are not included.

To return to Auckland Downtown, simply take the ferry from Waiheke Island.

Discover the stunning landscapes of New Zealand with a rental car. An intermediate SUV has been reserved for you, but you can inquire about upgrade options from your Destination Expert.

Begin your journey by leaving the city via the southern motorway. As you cross the Bombay Hills, you will descend to the Hauraki Plains, which used to be the bed of the Waikato River. The fertile alluvial soil in this area, formed by the river, has made it one of the most productive farming regions in the country. Drive through the dairying country to the town of Matamata, which offers essential services and is famous for its thoroughbred horse studs. Matamata is also the home of ‘Hobbiton’ from the Lord of the Rings movies. The approximate non-stop drive time is 2 hours, covering 100 miles.

Immerse yourself in the world of Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. This picturesque setting, featured in the Lord of the Rings films, is located on a 1,250 acre sheep farm with breathtaking views of the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will lead you through the ten acre site, sharing fascinating details about the creation of the Hobbiton set. You can explore the Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill, and other structures from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Witness the transformation of this beautiful Waikato farmland into The Shire from Middle-earth. After the tour, you will return to The Shires Rest. This shared Hobbiton tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and accommodates a maximum group of 40 participants. Meet at the Shire’s Rest, 501 Buckland Road.

As you make your way to Rotorua, you will pass through the town of Tirau, known for its antique shops and unique animal-shaped corrugated iron buildings. Enjoy the scenic plantation pine forest and the refreshing native bush of Fitzgerald Glade before reaching the distinct landscape of the Mamaku district. Mini volcanic cones are scattered throughout the area, some revealing their solidified lava core. The final leg of your journey will take you past the gondola and luge rides of Mt Ngongataha. You will know you have arrived in Rotorua when you see (and smell!) the geothermal steam plumes of Whakarewarewa. The approximate drive time is 1.5 hours, covering 54 miles.

Begin your day with an early morning pick-up, as you embark on a journey through the forests and farmlands outside of Rotorua. Your destination is Wai-o-Tapu, home to New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, colorful hot springs, and the famous Lady Knox geyser. With luck, you'll witness the geyser erupt right before your eyes. Afterward, continue to Waimangu Thermal Valley where your knowledgeable guide will share details about the massive eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 and its lasting impact on the local environment. Explore the unique and lunar-like landscape of the valley during this four-hour and 30-minute tour, which accommodates a maximum of 15 guests.

Join one of Te Puia's renowned guides for an immersive tour of the valley. Visit the national carving and weaving schools, where you'll witness these ancient crafts in action under the guidance of master artisans. Experience award-winning interactive galleries, get up close to a kiwi bird, and listen to captivating stories from descendants of the valley. The first half of the tour concludes with a visit to the geyser and mud pools, followed by a short rest before the evening experience.

Te Po, the evening experience, is a time for sharing knowledge, culture, and friendship. Taking place at Te-Heketanga-a-Rangi (The Heavenly Origins), where twelve monumental carvings representing Maori deities stand tall, you'll learn about the past and witness the continuation of these traditions. As a guest, you'll be treated to a lavish banquet meal that combines traditional Hangi cooking techniques with contemporary methods, resulting in a delicious smoky flavor. After dessert, you'll be transported to the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley to witness the stunning lighting. Explore the illuminated natural attractions, including the impressive Pohutu geyser. This shared outing can accommodate up to 160 guests.

Rotorua is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, resulting in a rich history of volcanic activity. This city offers a unique experience to explore geothermal areas and learn about the Maori culture. Whether rain or shine, Rotorua never fails to entertain visitors. The journey to Taupo is equally captivating, with its volcanic landscapes and vast pine forests. Along the way, take a detour to a geothermal park and witness geysers, silica terraces, and boiling mud craters. Towards the end of the trip, you'll come across the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station, as well as the famous Huka Falls and a top-notch golf course. Taupo, a popular resort town, sits on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, known for its abundance of trout. Travelers will find a wide range of amenities, including excellent restaurants. Many accommodations take advantage of the natural thermal activity by offering hot spas for ultimate relaxation. The drive from Rotorua to Taupo takes approximately one hour, spanning a distance of 51 miles.

Once in Taupo, you'll have plenty of free time to enjoy various activities. The Great Lakes region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food enthusiasts, and spa enthusiasts alike. Whether you're into trout fishing, golfing, thermal parks, or lake cruising, Taupo has it all. Choose an adventurous activity or simply have a peaceful evening out in town. Bike tours, hikes, and even skydiving are all available options in Taupo, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

At 8:00 am, you will be picked up from your hotel to start the Tongariro Crossing Hike. The hike is famous for its unique landscapes seen in Lord of the Rings and its cultural significance. Spanning 12 miles, the trail offers an unmatched adventure, with guides sharing insights on sacred areas. However, it's important to note that this popular hike is best suited for those with the fitness level to complete the eight-hour trek over challenging terrain. Proper footwear and clothing are essential for a safe experience.

Taupo, a resort town on New Zealand's largest lake, offers ample trout fishing and a wide selection of restaurants. Many accommodations take advantage of the underground thermal activity to provide hot spas for relaxation. The drive from Taupo to Napier is a scenic journey showcasing rugged hills, picturesque valleys, gentle plains, and expansive vistas. Tarawera offers the opportunity to hike to hot springs above the Waipunga River, while the Waiarua Falls lookout provides a view of twin waterfalls. The town of Eskdale marks the entrance to Napier, a city that was rebuilt in the Art Deco style after a devastating earthquake in 1931. Napier is also conveniently close to the vineyards of Hawke's Bay and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. The drive from Taupo to Napier takes approximately 2 hours and covers 87 miles.

Experience a personalized and informative walking tour of Napier's Art Deco Quarter. Your knowledgeable guide will adapt the tour to your pace and specific interests, ensuring a unique and tailored experience. Explore the architectural history of Napier, from its destruction by natural disasters to its reconstruction in various styles, such as Mission Revival architecture, 20th-century Stripped Classicism, and the iconic Art Deco style. Private walks are available on any day of the week, at a time that suits your schedule and itinerary.

Come and enjoy the wonders of Hawke's Bay, where you can indulge in delicious food, taste exquisite wine, and immerse yourself in the rich Maori culture. Explore the charming city of Napier, adorned with unique art deco buildings. Experience the essence of this region by visiting local food producers and savoring their tantalizing products. Engage with Maori elders to gain spiritual insights into their culture. Delight in beautifully crafted wines at renowned wineries and connect with the passionate personalities behind them. Discover the talent of local artists in their studios, admiring their captivating artworks. Embark on a privately guided tour and explore the breathtaking Hawke's Bay countryside, whether it be a historic country garden, a secluded coastal beach, or native bushland. This tour offers the best of the bay, promising an unforgettable experience in this beautiful part of the country.

Hastings, known for its parks and ice cream, is a must-visit destination. It is the leading pip-fruit region in New Zealand, making it the perfect place to be during the apple and pear season. As you drive south, you will pass through friendly townships, such as Waipukurau, Waipawa, Dannevirke, and Woodville, each offering their own unique attractions like historic sites, knitwear, and antique shops. Carterton is a great spot to find paua shell souvenirs, while Greytown boasts stunning Victorian architecture and a charming museum. Martinborough, on the other hand, has become the gourmet capital of the lower North Island, with its boutique vineyards and top-notch restaurants. After passing through Featherston, you will ascend the Rimutaka Range, providing breathtaking views in all directions. Once you've crossed the mountains, the rest of your journey will be smooth driving. Passing through the picturesque Hutt Valley, you will soon reach the bustling city of Wellington. The approximate drive time for this journey is 4 hours and 12 minutes, covering a distance of 200 miles.

While in Wellington, take the opportunity to visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa during your free afternoon. This massive museum offers a wealth of knowledge about the art, culture, and natural history of the region, with a special emphasis on Maori and Pacific cultures. With a collection of approximately 70,000 bird specimens, including the largest colossal squid, as well as over 13,000 items from the Pacific Islands, both historic and contemporary, there is much to explore and learn from.

Start your Wellington walking tour at the Bolton Hotel, where you'll meet your private guide. Wellington, New Zealand's artistic capital, offers a blend of history, innovation, and architecture that will captivate you. Before you begin, your guide will show you the art at the Bolton Hotel, mostly created by Rita Angus. You'll also see the Rita Angus cottage, now a studio for emerging artists. Explore the Parliament Grounds, which consist of four buildings, including the Beehive, named for its resemblance to a beehive. Along your journey, you'll also see the Waka Landing Point, Old Government House, and Wellington Railway Station. Don't miss the NZ Portrait Gallery, with its ever-changing exhibitions showcasing the stories of New Zealanders. End your tour with a stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy markets and eateries against a stunning harbor backdrop.

On board the Kaitaki or Aratere, the Premium Lounge offers a luxurious and comfortable way to cross the Cook Strait. A Kaitaki Plus ticket grants access to an exclusive onboard lounge with lounge-style seating, free WIFI, magazines, newspapers, snacks, wines, beers, coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks.

From Picton to Kaiteriteri, just outside Abel Tasman National Park, journeyed and spent time on the beach, exploring the area. A trip to New Zealand's South Island isn't complete without exploring the majestic Marlborough Sounds and Marlborough's diverse landscape in Picton. It's a truly special experience for all visitors. The spectacular Abel Tasman National Park is only 15 minutes north of Kaiteriteri, with a drive time of approximately 3 hours, covering 104 miles.

Start the day by meeting your group guide and embark on a cruise to the stunning Torrent Bay coastline. Upon reaching Torrent Bay Lodge, have a comprehensive training session and safety briefing before venturing out on the water again, this time on a kayak. Explore the picturesque beaches, estuaries, and rivers of the park's most scenic kayaking area. Take a break at a sheltered cove for lunch and enjoy some leisure time to relax, swim, or sunbathe on the beautiful golden sands. On the return journey, if the wind conditions allow, hoist kayak sails and leisurely sail back to Torrent Bay, making a stop at Pinnacle Island to observe the seal colony and the various sea birds. Keep an eye out for the blue penguins that inhabit the area. Freshen up with a hot shower at Torrent Bay Lodge and then board the boat to cruise back to Kaiteriteri, where a motor coach will be ready to take you back to Nelson. Remember to bring a dry bag for your personal belongings, along with a towel, hat, sunscreen, wind jacket, swimsuit, change of clothes, and comfortable walking shoes.

The Nelson region has a wide range of landscapes and activities. You can find snow-capped mountains, rolling vineyards, golden beaches, and outdoor adventure. You can also learn Maori weaving at local markets. Enjoy shopping for locally made clothing and handicrafts, visit the farmers market on the weekend, take a leisurely stroll along the coast, or dine at one of Nelson's many fine restaurants. Another option is to spend the day exploring the Abel Tasman National Park.

Leave Nelson and head along the coast, passing the boulder bank. Keep going past Whangamoa Hill and Rai Saddle until you reach Pelorus Bridge in its lovely bush surroundings. Continue to Havelock. The road then leads south through low hills, crosses the Wairau River, and turns east to Blenheim, the main town of the Marlborough wine region. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours and covers 71 miles.

Experience the essence of Marlborough with your private driver and guide, indulging in the region's key delights: water, wine, and chocolate. Begin your adventure with a picturesque drive to Picton and board a luxurious private catamaran. Cruise through the breathtaking sea-sunken valleys of Marlborough Sound, marveling at the natural beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound and Totaranui beach. Savor a delectable platter of local seafood and a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc as you soak in the surroundings. After bidding farewell to your skipper in Picton, continue your journey with your driver, exploring the local wine region. Take in stunning vineyard views, landscapes, and hidden valleys during a scenic tour. Indulge in divine wine and food at Wither Hills Winery, where a three-course lunch awaits, showcasing the finest local produce and wines. In the afternoon, enjoy a private 'Indulge' tasting at Cloudy Bay, sampling their internationally acclaimed award-winning wines. Conclude your day with a visit to Makana Chocolates, witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship of hand-made chocolates and indulging in a sweet tasting. Finally, return to your hotel, cherishing the memories of your Marlborough adventure.

Blenheim in Marlborough is a hub for wine production, offering a variety of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, and golf courses. Accommodation options in Blenheim are diverse, ranging from homestays to boutique hotels. State Highway 1 guides you through the scenic Awatere Valley, passing through Seddon, where you can find authentic New Zealand crafts. A noteworthy stop along the way is the Lake Grassmere saltworks, where the ponds turn pink in late summer. Continuing on, the road leads to the stunning Pacific Coast, with the Sawcut Gorge walking trails accessible just north of the Ure River. Kaikoura serves as a base for wildlife encounters, with opportunities to witness whales, dolphins, and orcas. As you journey south, the coastal ranges offer a rugged backdrop, and a detour to Gore Bay from Cheviot allows for a glimpse of intriguing cliff formations. As you approach Waipara, the landscape becomes more gentle, known for its vineyards and olive groves. The final stretch of the drive passes by the surf beaches of Amberley, Leithfield, Waikuku, and Woodend. Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, combines elegance with cultural vibrancy. The peaceful Avon River flows through the city, which boasts historic buildings, a thriving arts community, and convenient tram transportation. Explore heritage sites, museums, art galleries, and indulge in the city's renowned restaurant scene. The total driving time for this journey is 4.5 hours, covering a distance of 196 miles.

Embark on a scenic train journey from the Canterbury Plains to Springfield to capture photos of the majestic mountains on the TranzAlpine train. Traverse the stunning gorge and reach the Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass. At Arthur's Pass village, choose an adventure tailored to your interests. The first option is to explore the Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system. Along the way, witness the magnificent Otira Gorge and the Cave Stream, famous for its limestone cliffs and the circular tunnel carved by water. This location gained fame through its appearance in the film adaptation of CS Lewis's _The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe_. Another option is to visit the sacred Castle Hill rocks, weathered limestone formations set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Conclude your guided experience in Arthur's Pass and return to Christchurch via Porter's Pass and the Canterbury Plains. **Please note:** Prepare for extreme and unpredictable weather conditions by wearing appropriate clothing and bringing essential items.

Departing from Christchurch, head southwards across the Canterbury Plains, crossing the Rakaia River on the longest bridge in New Zealand. This river, known for its braided channels, originates in the Southern Alps. Continue through Ashburton, a hub for sheep and wheat farming, and cross the Rangitata River before reaching Geraldine. From there, enter the Mackenzie District and traverse undulating sheep country to Fairlie. Take State Highway 8 through Burkes Pass to Lake Tekapo, where the charming Church of the Good Shepherd sits by the lakeside. Proceed through a landscape of scrub and tussock to Lake Pukaki, driving along the western shore and following the Tasman River to reach Mt Cook village. The approximate non-stop drive time for this route is 4 hours, covering a distance of 205 miles.

Mount Cook, located far from city lights, offers some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, making it a perfect spot for stargazing. Begin your experience at the Theatre Planetarium, where an introduction and orientation will be provided through a special live Digital Sky presentation, focusing on unique features in the southern sky. Knowledgeable astronomy guides will then accompany you on a short drive (transportation will be provided) to an outdoor stargazing site, offering breathtaking views of the southern sky. Using the naked eye, powerful binoculars, and state-of-the-art telescopes, you will have the opportunity to explore the Milky Way and beyond. Unleash your imagination as you delve into our cosmic neighborhood, discovering the Southern Cross, star clusters, planets, moons, and distant galaxies.

Witness the remarkable Tasman Glacier up close with a guided MAC Boat tour. As New Zealand's largest glacier, it offers a captivating exploration of the ever-changing glacial landscape. Sadly, the effects of global warming and other climatic processes have caused the glacier to retreat. Currently, the Tasman Glacier measures approximately 17 miles long and 1965 feet deep. This massive glacier is melting and calving at an accelerating pace. Consequently, the glacier's terminus has shifted from melting to calving and melting, resulting in a rapidly expanding terminal lake. Icebergs of all shapes and sizes regularly break off from the glacier's face and fall into the growing lake below. Alongside the Terminal Lake, towering lateral moraines reach heights of about 665 feet, reminding us of the glacier's majestic scale during past ice ages, which ended only in 1890.

Embark on an extraordinary aerial adventure known as the "Grand Traverse," an unparalleled scenic flight that traverses the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks. This flight is widely regarded as the ultimate Aoraki Mount Cook flight-seeing experience, as it showcases 160 miles of New Zealand's most breathtaking and memorable scenery across two World Heritage National Parks. The highlights of the Grand Traverse include stunning turquoise glacial lakes, golden tussock lands, the intricate river systems of the Mackenzie basin, remote high country sheep stations, glacial valleys, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park with its enchanting world of perpetual ice and snow, New Zealand's tallest mountains, and largest glaciers, including Aoraki Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier. Moreover, the flight extends to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, encompassing the magnificent Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers flowing into the rainforests of the west coast.

Air Safaris operates aircraft that are specifically designed for New Zealand's conditions, ensuring optimal viewing for every passenger with window seats. The aircraft's wings are positioned above, guaranteeing unobstructed views below. Throughout the flight, your friendly pilot will provide informative and enjoyable commentary. Additionally, each passenger will receive the Air Safaris multi-language flight-guide. The Grand Traverse typically lasts around 50 minutes.

The road from Mt Cook Village to Twizel offers stunning views of Lake Pukaki's opaque turquoise color. The landscape is a mix of high country tussock, farmland, and snow-capped mountains. Twizel serves as a great base for various outdoor activities like mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking, and hiking. Additionally, it is a great spot to observe the rare Black Stilt bird. For those who don't have time to catch their own salmon, the local salmon farm offers fresh or smoked options.

From Twizel, the drive to Omarama takes you through picturesque sheep farming areas bordered by mountain ranges. You can take a detour to the fascinating Paritea cliffs, constantly uncovered by the active Osler fault line. Anglers can also enjoy casting a line into the Ahuriri River, known for its sizable rainbow and brown trout.

Upon reaching Omarama, you'll notice the giant merino sheep statue symbolizing the area. This region is a popular destination for gliding enthusiasts due to its unique geography. The journey to Queenstown begins with the breathtaking Lindis Pass, which is particularly enchanting when covered in snow. Queenstown itself is an alpine resort known for its excitement, sophistication, and stunning scenery. It offers a wide range of adventurous activities, including bungee jumping, jet boating, horse trekking, rafting, and river surfing.

The approximate driving time from Omarama to Queenstown is three hours, covering a distance of 149 miles.

Departing from Queenstown, your journey will begin with a lakeside drive that takes you from the bustling city to the picturesque Southland's alpine farming region. As you continue on, you will be treated to the breathtaking scenery of the Fiordland's, with each bend in the road revealing extraordinary natural beauty. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will ensure that you make the most of your trip, stopping at the best photography spots and leading short walks to uncover hidden waterfalls, serene lakes, and majestic snow-capped peaks enveloped in lush native foliage. Upon reaching the harbor in Milford Sound, you will board a cruise vessel for a leisurely 90-minute journey through a landscape that has remained unchanged since Captain Cook's arrival. This awe-inspiring place is home to towering mountains, pristine rainforests, abundant wildlife, and a sense of tranquility that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. After this intimate exploration, you will be returned to your hotel, having experienced the true essence of this remarkable destination.

Join the Dart River Wilderness Safari in Queenstown for an unforgettable adventure. The tour starts at 8:15am at the Queenstown Information Centre, where you'll check in. You'll be taken on an exhilarating jetboat ride through Mount Aspiring National Park, where you'll witness stunning scenery and experience thrilling 360 degree spins. The knowledgeable guides will share interesting facts about the area's history, the Greenstone trail, and Maori legends. This tour offers a complete Queenstown to Glenorchy experience in a pristine natural environment. Remember to dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring eyewear. In summer, bring a sunhat and sunscreen, and in winter, bring a warm hat and gloves.

Once you have finished packing, head over to the rental car drop off center to return your vehicle.