Discover New Zealand’s North Island in depth. Explore Napier on an Art Deco tour and travel via Taupo to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Then visit Auckland and the subtropical Bay of Islands.
Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery, before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience.
Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Indulge in a delicious seasonal menu, which incorporates the finest local ingredients, at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant.
Step aboard a beautifully restored heritage tram and embark on a private tour of Christchurch. Enjoy drinks and canapés as you spot many of the city’s iconic sights. You’ll also learn about the regeneration of this vibrant city following the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes.
A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above.
Take the iconic Interislander ferry from Wellington on the North Island to Picton on the South Island. Travel through the serene waters of Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait, then journey through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds.
Welcome to New Zealand’s vibrant capital. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel.
Today you'll drive through the Rimutaka Ranges en route to the coastal city of Napier, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience.
Signature Experience – Napier Art Deco Tour
Discover the city of Napier and enjoy a guided walking tour of this beautiful art deco city, rebuilt in the era’s style after the devastating Hawkes Bay earthquake in 1931. Explore the city’s streets and learn about the iconic and unique features of art deco design, as well as the history behind each building. Marvel at the intricate detailing, vibrant colours and fascinating stories of this town frozen in time.
Today, journey through Esk Valley and Te Pōhue, stopping at the charming town of Taupō. Later, travel to Rotorua and enjoy a Signature Experience.
Signature Experience – Te Pā Tū
Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.
This morning, discover the beauty of Rotorua as you enjoy an included Freedom of Choice activity. it's time to explore Rotorua on your selected sightseeing activity. The evening is yours at leisure to further explore.
Freedom of Choice – Rotorua Icons
Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.
Freedom of Choice – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.
Freedom of Choice – Eco-Thermal Tour
Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.
Freedom of Choice – Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Relax and unwind in the geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey, which draws on age-old Ngāti Whakaue healing practices and Māori culture. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey, which draws on age-old Ngāti Whakaue healing practices and Māori culture.
This morning, travel through the dairy farming region of Waikato to Auckland. Upon arrival, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity.
Freedom of Choice – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat.
Freedom of Choice – All Blacks Experience
Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story.
Freedom of Choice – Wētā Workshop – Unleashed
Journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Wētā Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit’ are created.
Freedom of Choice – Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo
At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species.
Freedom of Choice – Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure
Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland’s wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest’s unique plants and wildlife.
Cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Parry Kauri Park to view the large kauri trees and soak up the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the stunning Bay of Islands.
Today starts with a Signature Experience, where you will be immersed in the spectacular Bay of Islands region on a cruise. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to explore further before a farewell dinner.
Signature Experience – Bay of Islands Cruise
Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.
After breakfast, travel to Auckland where your New Zealand adventure concludes. We say goodbye before we transfer you to the airport for your flight.
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APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.