Compare New Zealand Rail, Coach and Cruise by Senior Coach Tours vs Premium New Zealand Encompassed by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 AUCKLAND
On arrival into Auckland you will be met and transferred to our hotel, the Spencer on Byron.

Day 2 AUCKLAND, PARADISE VALLEY SPRINGS, ROTORUA
This morning enjoy an extensive city sights tour of Auckland including a visit to the Sky Tower, offering breathtaking views across Auckland. Departing Auckland we travel through magnificent countryside to Rotorua and visit Paradise Valley Spring, a superb wildlife park where you can hand feed rainbow trout. Our home for two nights is the Sudima Hotel, Lake Rotorua.

Day 3 ROTORUA
Our day begins with a Gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride, if you wish! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before we travel to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert.

Day 4 ROTORUA, LAKE TAUPO, WELLINGTON
We travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls continuing to Lake Taupo for some free time to enjoy this scenic lakeside town. We pass the outer edges of Tongariro National Park and then continue south along the Kapiti Coast to the capital city of Wellington. Our home for two nights, James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor.

Day 5 WELLINGTON
Today we enjoy an extensive city tour which explains the history and culture on show in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. A highlight will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views of the land, environment and people. Enjoy some free time to explore at leisure this afternoon. The evening is also free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants (own expense).

Day 6 INTERISLANDER FERRY, COASTAL PACIFIC, CHRISTCHURCH
This morning we board the Interislander Ferry, crossing Cook Strait then travelling through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. We join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that showcases the Kaikoura mountain ranges and rugged scenic coastline travelling through numerous tunnels and across several bridges. Our coach awaits to take us to the garden city of Christchurch and our hotel for two nights, Quality Hotel Elms.

Day 7 CHRISTCHURCH
Today we visit the International Antarctic Centre designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This is followed by an introductory city tour of Christchurch and later, a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at your leisure.

Day 8 CHRISTCHURCH, TRANZALPINE RAILWAY, FRANZ JOSEF
A highlight as we board the TranzAlpine, one of the great train journeys of the world. Travelling over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges we ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. We board our coach and travel to the beachside town of Hokitika, before arriving at Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight over the spectacular glaciers (own expense, weather permitting). Tonight’s home, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.

Day 9 FRANZ JOSEF, HAAST PASS, QUEENSTOWN
Marvel at the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as we travel south via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine at one of the many fine restaurants (own expense). Our hotel for two nights, Mercure Queenstown Resort or similar.

Day 10 QUEENSTOWN (Free Day)
Today is a free day to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Our crew are available to assist with the many leisure options available. This evening we board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano on your return cruise.

Day 11 QUEENSTOWN, MILFORD SOUND OVERNIGHT CRUISE
Our morning is spent at Arrowtown visiting the Lakes District Museum. Continuing via Te Anau to Milford Sound we board the Milford Mariner for an amazing overnight cruise. There is plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife and we’re bound to encounter seals and if we’re lucky maybe dolphins and penguins. As evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared freshly by the on board chef.

Day 12 MILFORD SOUND, TE ANAU
We start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Returning back to the wharf we disembark and meet our coach before taking the enjoyable scenic drive to Te Anau. Some time at leisure this afternoon. Our home tonight, the Distinction Luxmore.

Day 13 TE ANAU, DUNEDIN
Travelling via Gore and Balclutha we reach Dunedin and take an informative city tour followed by some free time to explore. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, Haggis Ceremony and a gift. Our hotel for two nights, the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross.

Day 14 DUNEDIN
A leisurely drive along the Otago Peninsula brings us to Larnach Castle where we enjoy a guided tour. Next stop is Glenfalloch Restaurant for a delightful morning tea. We return to Dunedin for some free time this afternoon.

Day 15 DUNEDIN, CHRISTCHURCH
This morning we visit Olveston House, a prestigious historic home before travelling to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Later we return to Christchurch and our hotel, the Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport. This evening we gather for a farewell dinner with our new found friends.

Day 16 CHRISTCHURCH
As our holiday draws to a close it’s time to say goodbye, concluding a memorable New Zealand holiday.

Day 1 Auckland

Welcome to the North Island! Your adventure begins in Auckland, New Zealand’s most populated city, fringed with beaches, harbours, volcanoes and farmland. You’ll be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel. A welcome meeting will take place here at 6pm, where you’ll meet your local leader and the other travellers joining you on this adventure. If you arrive in Auckland with time to spare, you may like to uncover the story of New Zealand rugby during an interactive All Blacks experience where you’ll learn about the heritage of the sport and find out what it takes to wear the famous black jersey. After your meeting, get to know your group over dinner at an atmospheric local bistro in the heart of the city, championing New Zealand producers.

Day 2 Auckland (Waiheke Island)

Leave the bustle of the big city behind and head offshore to Waiheke Island, famed for its sandy beaches and glorious wine. Board a ferry from Auckland – if you’re really lucky you may even see dolphins or orcas along the way. The day will be spent sipping your way around the island, stopping off at three unique wineries to learn about their production methods, and of course tasting the goods yourself. You’ll also enjoy an included lunch on the island, not to mention a few scenic drives with plenty of opportunities for beautiful photos. Return to Auckland in the late afternoon with an evening free for your own discoveries of the city.

Day 3 Auckland via Waitomo & Hobbiton to Rotorua

After breakfast this morning, hit the road and drive to the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, an extensive underground network of tunnels and caverns decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and luminous glow worms. Join a local expert for an in-depth tour of the Ruakuri Cave, descending a spiral entrance to a magical world below. Discover fascinating limestone formations, hear the roar of subterranean waterfalls and learn about the glow worms that light up the caves. Continue to Hobbiton, where the epic Lord of the Rings movies were shot. Take a tour around the set with a local guide, hear stories about the production of these iconic films, explore Hobbit holes and enjoy a drink at the mythical Green Dragon Inn. Finally, travel to Rotorua, where you will spend the evening.

Day 4 Rotorua

Wake up in Rotorua to the unmistakable scent of sulphur coming off the town’s many geothermal pools. After breakfast, pay a visit to Te Puia, over 70 hectares of land within the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, dotted with hot springs, mud pools and geysers. A local expert will take you on a walk to learn about these geothermal wonders, including Pohutu, the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere. Next experience the Kiwi Conservation Centre where you’ll have the chance to observe the beloved nocturnal bird in a darkened enclosure and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to protect them. Swing by the Ahua Gallery and watch culturally significant Maori carving and weaving demonstrations. Lunch is a treat today - a traditional hangi feast cooked beneath the earth in traditional style. In the evening, perhaps consider an optional tour of the geysers by night.

Day 5 Rotorua to Taupo

Say goodbye to Rotorua and drive on to Taupo, sitting on the shores of Lake Taupo – the largest lake in New Zealand. On the way, visit Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, where you will walk through thousands of years of geothermal history and volcanic features, including New Zealand's largest mud pool and bubbling basins bursting with vibrant colors. The rest of the day is yours to discover all that this picturesque part of the country has to offer. One of the best ways to enjoy the lake is to get on its waters – speak to your leader to find out about the sustainable sailing and cruising options available to you this afternoon. You may like to try your hand at fishing, or perhaps take a flight over the spectacular Tongariro National Park.

Day 6 Taupo via Tongariro National Park to Ohakune

Today will be spent uncovering the natural wonders of Tongariro National Park, as spiritually significant as it is spectacular. Your leader will guide you on a scenic two-hour walk to the Taranaki Falls, an impressive 20-metre cascade tumbling over volcanic cliffs. Later in the day, head to your Feature Stay accommodation at the Powderhorn Chateau and settle in. The chateau provides a stunning base for the evening, surrounded by the soaring peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro – the views are simply unbeatable.

Day 7 Ohakune to Wellington

This morning, make tracks for Wellington, New Zealand’s trendy capital city. After settling in, hop aboard a private catamaran and get to know the city on an evening cruise around Wellington Harbour. Return to land after an hour and join your group for dinner at a fantastic waterfront restaurant – the perfect chance to reminisce about your North Island adventure.

Day 8 Wellington to Christchurch

This morning, check out of your hotel after breakfast and head to the South Island. You'll take a 1 hour flight to Christchurch. Characterised by snow-capped peaks, giant glaciers and shimmering lakes, there’s no denying that the South Island is one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Once in Christchurch, settle into your accommodation. A meeting will take place in the evening at 6pm to welcome any new travellers joining you for the next leg of your adventure, followed by dinner at a local restaurant which encapsulates the culinary culture of the region. Learn about the ethos behind this unique dining spot and enjoy a delicious three course meal which celebrates local producers.

Day 9 Christchurch / Greymouth / Punakaiki

Take a morning stroll with your leader around some of the landmarks of Christchurch. Next set off for Punakaiki, driving through Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill – the spectacular mountain scenery may look familiar, as parts of The Chronicles of Narnia movie were filmed against this dramatic backdrop. After lunch in Moana, enjoy a short stop at Lake Brunner, the largest lake in the northwestern South Island of New Zealand. Spend the afternoon in Greymouth, stopping into a boutique studio to learn about the prized west coast jade known locally as Pounamu (Greenstone). Then continue to Monteith's Brewery, considered the original home of New Zealand craft brewing, for a tour and tasting. Arrive at Punakaiki Resort by late afternoon. Situated in Paparoa National Park, the resort is adjacent to the beautiful Punakaiki beach and the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes - the perfect spot to reflect and relax.

Day 10 Hokitika / Franz Josef

After breakfast, explore the Punakaiki Rocks and Blowhole before the drive to Franz Josef. Along the way, stretch your legs at the charming west coast town of Hokitika, and enjoy an exhilarating treetop adventure on a walk through the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy. In the afternoon, take a private ranger-guided tour of the West Coast Wildlife Centre, home of the official breeding programme for the world's rarest kiwi, the Rowi. Also keep an eye out for tuatara, a reptile endemic to New Zealand. Arrive at your Franz Josef accommodation by evening.

Day 11 Franz Josef

Begin your day with a self-guided walk to see the icy wonderland created by the Franz Josef Glacier, one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you may like to join an optional heli-hiking tour and get even closer to this incredible glacier. Other optional activities include kayaking, a scenic cruise on Lake Mapourika or a soak in the hot tubs at Franz Josef.

Day 12 Makaroa / Wanaka

Depart Franz Josef for the picturesque resort town of Wanaka, the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, located in the Otago region. Stop along the way at Makorora and visit the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust, an organisation which strives to protect and restore indigenous biodiversity. After lunch, take a guided walk with a local ornithologist and ecologist to enjoy the vibrant hue of the aptly named Blue Pools that feed the Makarora River. Keep an eye out for endangered birds as you learn about how the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust is working to reduce predators and save some of New Zealand’s rarest species. Arrive in Wanaka by later afternoon, and settle in to your home for the next two nights - a homestead built on the site of a former sheep station. Located next to the resplendent Wanaka Station Park on the shores of Lake Wanaka, and a short stroll from Wanaka township, you'll be perfectly placed to enjoy all this charming town has to offer.

Day 13 Wanaka

Enjoy a sleep in or perhaps start your day with a hike up Mt Iron for a view over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. Today's experience is one of the real highlight's of your trip. Central Otago is a region well known for food and wine, and today you will visit the spectacular Criffel Station for a chef-guided tasting and foraging tour, followed by a delicious lunch, washed down with some excellent Central Otago wines.

Day 14 Milford Sound

Depart Wanaka for the drive to Te Anau. Along the way, take in a spectacular scenic drive across the Crown Range and by the shores of Lake Wakatipu. After lunch, continue on to your embarkation point for your Feature Stay, an overnight cruise surrounded by the spectacular beauty of Milford Sound, also known by its Te Reo (Maori) name Piopiotahi. Aboard your purpose-built vessel, enjoy a full length journey of the fjord out to the Tasman Sea, with the possibility to see wildlife such as seals, penguins and dolphins. You will also have access to a specialist guide with information on the fjord's history and natural environment. For those who are keen, kayaking and/or small boat tours allow a truly immersive experience of this special place. Finish your day with a delicious three-course dinner before settling down in your cosy cabin.

Day 15 Milford Sound / Te Anau / Queenstown

After a leisurely onboard breakfast surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, you’ll disembark and travel to Queenstown with plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs along the way. After another stop in pretty Te Anau for lunch, you’ll arrive in plenty of time to check into your boutique hotel in Queenstown.

Day 16 Arrowtown / Queenstown

Today is the grand finale of your trip. In the morning, take an exhilarating jetboat ride on the Kimi Akau (Shotover River), deep into the spectacular Shotover Canyons. Speeding over water as shallow as 10cm, this is an amazing white water experience, operated by the Ngai Tahu, Maori people who have a centuries-old connection with this land. Continue on for a leader-led walk through historical Arrowtown, then enjoy a wine tasting at Gibbston Valley. Perhaps toast the end of your journey with a New Zealand-inspired gin & tonic or glass of Otago wine at a bar & restaurant with arguably the most spectacular views in all of Queenstown.

Day 17 Queenstown

Your New Zealand adventure ends this morning after breakfast. As this trip spends very little time in Queenstown, we recommend you spend an extra day or two here if you want to experience all the town has to offer. Your booking agent will be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).