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Best of New Zealand

Name: Best of New Zealand
Brand: Elife Travel
Price: 6192 USD
Availability: InStock

Country:

New Zealand

Flight:

Not included

Favorite

Tour id:

83784

Operator:

Globus
Length:

14 days
Group size:

46 pax
Age:

5 to 80
Difficulty:
Difficulty levels:
- Relaxing
- Easy
- Moderate
- Serious
- Heart-pumping

19.09-02.10.25 guaranteed
31.10-13.11.25 guaranteed
16.01-29.01.26 guaranteed
13.02-26.02.26 scheduled
27.02-12.03.26 scheduled
13.03-26.03.26 scheduled
27.03-09.04.26 scheduled
04.09-17.09.26 scheduled
18.09-01.10.26 scheduled
09.10-22.10.26 scheduled
30.10-12.11.26 scheduled
13.11-26.11.26 scheduled
12.03-25.03.27 scheduled
26.03-08.04.27 scheduled

Itinerary

It’s true that sheep outnumber people in New Zealand six to one, but lucky for ewe, this untamed land also boasts an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning fiords. The North Island’s Bay of Islands sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of New Zealand’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting geysers are only surpassed by the South Island’s soaring Southern Alps, which you’ll reach from charming Christchurch by way of the scenic TranzAlpine train. Throughout your tour of New Zealand, you’ll have the opportunity to admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier, warm your toes in natural hot springs, and partake in all of the fun that Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” has to offer. With so many ways to work up an appetite, you’ll appreciate a special barbecue on a local farm and dinner at a New Zealand family’s home. On this 14-day tour, you’ll discover the best of New Zealand from top to bottom.

Tour program

Day 1

ARRIVE IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

A Māori Welcome Welcome to Aotearoa, Māori for “land of the long white cloud.” Your room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule your flights to arrive by 4:30pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (D)

Day 2

AUCKLAND–BAY OF ISLANDS

Time & Tides Start your day with a sightseeing tour of Auckland, the “City of Sails.” See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. Continue to the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beauty and history. Before arriving at your resort, visit the historic Waitangi Treaty House. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS The Waitangi Treaty House, or Busby House as it is sometimes known, was the site of some of the most important events in New Zealand’s history. It is here in 1840, New Zealand’s founding document was signed. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, see Māori cultural performances, stroll through the lush gardens, and visit the inspiring art gallery and carving studio; all with stunning views over the Bay of Islands.

Day 3

BAY OF ISLANDS

Seas the Day This morning, embark on a sightseeing cruise. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to stroll the beach, explore some of the island’s historic attractions, shop for souvenirs, or just relax at your hotel. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Take in stunning views as you glide through the islands along the Rakamangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. If water dripped on them from the cave’s room, it was a good omen. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Make an island stop to give you time to stroll along the white sand beach or walk to the top of the hill for scenic views of the Bay of Islands.

Day 4

BAY OF ISLANDS–ROTORUA

Abundant Adventure Today, travel through the Bay of Plenty region to Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders, adventure activities, and a thriving Māori culture (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE This evening, you may wish to join an optional outing to experience an authentic Māori village and culture performance, followed by a delicious Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). You might even be asked to join in a Haka, the traditional war dance of the Māori.

Day 5

ROTORUA

The Living Earth This morning starts with a guided tour and visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Next, visit Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. This afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to relax in a natural hot spring, zipline through the forest, or board a floatplane for flightseeing of this beautiful region. This evening, join a New Zealand family for dinner in their home, a unique opportunity to interact with a local family and immerse yourself in New Zealand culture. Before the evening is over, you’ll feel like part of the family. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CONSERVATION HEROES Only about 5% of all Kiwi birds hatched in the wild survive to adulthood, making them endangered. At The National Kiwi Hatchery, you’ll see important conservation work in action.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS At Te Puia, explore New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland, featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, and silica terraces. See Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting, learn how Māori use the steam to cook their food, and visit the Māori Arts and Craft Institute to see traditional carving and weaving performed before your eyes.

Day 6

ROTORUA–MARTON–WELLINGTON

Wild & Woolly Travel south today through rolling farmlands and pass massive Lake Taupo. After lunch, continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. (B,L)

LOCAL FAVORITE
COUNTING SHEEP In New Zealand, sheep outnumber people 16 to 1. We’ll make a stop in the historic rural town of Marton, where we’ll visit a local farm and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch. During your time here, take a tour of the farm, see the animals, and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy.

Day 7

WELLINGTON

New Zealand Treasures Our day begins with a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbour from the top of Mount Victoria. You’ll also spend time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Meaning “the treasure box” in Māori, Te Papa is New Zealand’s national museum. Here you can explore the great stories of this country, Māori culture, heritage, and history. Learn about WWI, see a colossal giant squid, enjoy hands-on displays, and experience New Zealand’s many landscapes.

Day 8

WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH

Legendary Landmarks Fly to Christchurch located on New Zealand’s south island. Christchurch was named after the city in England that has the same name and has a history of English heritage. A sightseeing tour highlights some of Christchurch’s famous landmarks and spectacular gardens. This evening is at leisure. (B)

Day 9

CHRISTCHURCH–TRANZALPINE TRAIN–ARTHUR’S PASS–FRANZ JOSEF

All Aboard in Christchurch Today, take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the scenic TranzAlpine. Spend the next two nights in the small town of Franz Josef, located at the base of the impressive Franz Josef Glacier. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Experience the South Island’s striking landscape by taking the TranzAlpine train. From the comfort of first-class carriages, see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmlands, followed by the spectacular gorges and rivers of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass National Park. The train features large panoramic windows, an onboard café, and in-seat audio commentary. It’s a journey of a lifetime!

Day 10

FRANZ JOSEF

Ice Sculptures This morning, explore this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage area. Admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier on a locally guided tour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SCENIC WONDERS The Franz Josef Glacier Viewpoint Walk takes you through some breathtaking landscapes. Learn about the glacier’s history, see what is left behind this majestic giant, and learn the legend of Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere. After a short walk to the Glacier Viewpoint, be rewarded with spectacular views.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional scenic flightseeing or helicopter tour, relax in one of the glacier hot pools, spend time at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, or pick up a picnic lunch and just take in the gorgeous scenery. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus.

Day 11

FRANZ JOSEF–QUEENSTOWN

Vineyards & Views Our journey today takes us along the coast and the Tasman Sea. Climb through rainforests and over Haast Pass to arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Upon arrival, enjoy a tour and a tasting at a local winery. Tonight, you’re free to enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown’s many restaurants or cafes and sample some of the regional wines. (B)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The Gibbston Valley of New Zealand is known for high-quality wines including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Rose, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. We’ll visit New Zealand’s largest wine cave and the region’s oldest vineyard at Gibbston Valley Winery. As one of the region’s founding wineries you’ll taste some of their premium wines, explore the wine cave, learn about the founding of the vineyard, and enjoy a beautiful setting.

Day 12

QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND

Sights & Sound Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling, as the “eighth wonder of the world.” Late evening return to Queenstown. (B,L)

NOTE: The excursion to Milford Sound may happen on Day 13 depending on weather and road conditions today.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Cruise on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. Experience dense rainforest, towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Have your cameras ready for marine life such as playful dolphins, seals, and penguins. It will be a day to remember as you experience New Zealand’s wild side at its absolute best!

Day 13

QUEENSTOWN

Timeless Tales & Traditions Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. Tour some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy, shop for souvenirs, or take a thrilling jetboat ride on the dart river. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner.
(B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE This evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkable Mountains. Make sure to have your camera ready for fantastic photo opportunities.

Day 14

QUEENSTOWN

Haere Raa (Māori for “Until Next Time”) Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)

Tour Details

accommodation

Auckland - Stamford Plaza Auckland

Bay of Islands - Copthorne Hotel & Resort

Rotorua - Distinction Hotel Rotorua

Wellington - Rydges Wellington

Christchurch - Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

Franz Josef - Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Queenstown - Ramada Queenstown Central

flights

International flights are not included.

guide

With GLOBUS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered.

meals

Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

optional

Rotorua Zipline and Canopy Tour

Rotorua

4h 0m

Soar along 500-year-old Mamaku Forest on New Zealand's only native forest zipline canopy tour. This is an experience of a lifetime!

Price Range: $$$ ($101 - $150 USD)

Zealandia by Day

Wellington

2h 0m

'Take an educated and extended tour around New Zealand's unique predator free sanctuary, Zealandia.

Price Range: $ ($50 USD and under)

Helicopter Ride with Glacier Snowlanding

Franz Josef

0h 20m

This amazing excursion delivers a spectacular helicopter ride and twice the ice! The flight includes a snow landing, an excellent opportunity to really take in the surroundings and breathe the clean alpine air. Landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories.

Price Range: $$$$ (Over $150)

Wilderness Safari

Queenstown

3h 0m

Take a spectacular jet boat journey along the Dart's ever-changing braided river system. Awe-inspiring surroundings include breathtaking snowcapped mountains, ancient native forest, waterfalls, and glacial valleys frozen in time. Your excursion includes an easy guided walk through the Heritage Trail at Paradise, where your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience with informative and entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest, the unique fauna, amazing history, and fascinating Maori legends. You will also ride aboard a 4WD coach along a scenic backroad route to view scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for Middle Earth in The Lord of the Rings movies.

Price Range: $$$$ (Over $150)

others

AUCKLAND Sightseeing

BAY OF ISLANDS Visit the Waitangi Treaty House; scenic cruise

ROTORUA Sightseeing including a visit Rainbow Springs and Te Puia; dinner at a Globus Local Favorite local family’s home

MARTON Visit a Globus Local Favorite local farm and enjoy a barbecue lunch

WELLINGTON Sightseeing including cable car ride; visit the botanic gardens and Te Papa

INTERISLANDER FERRY Scenic cruising across Cook Strait

CHRISTCHURCH Orientation

TRANZALPINE TRAIN Scenic train journey

FRANZ JOSEF Glacier Valley walk

QUEENSTOWN Winery visit and tasting; visit Fiordland National Park; cruise on Milford Sound; farewell dinner

Other activities and services not included.

transport

Transport is included.

Good to know

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

New Zealand

Plugs and adapters

Plug type I

Customer reviews

Operator

Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?

You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.

Which payment options are available?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.

Can I change or cancel my reservation?

Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.

What documents are required to participate in the tour?

You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.