Best of New Zealand

14 days
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
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USTOA

Small Group Tour
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 Plenty sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of New Zealand’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting ...
21%
$7,343
From$5,789
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Auckland : Sightseeing
    • Bay of islands: Visit the Waitangi Treaty House; scenic cruise
    • Rotorua : Traditional Hangi dinner and Maori cultural performance; visit Rainbow Springs and Te Puia; dinner at a local family’s home
    • Marton : Visit a 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

What's this trip about?

    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 Plenty 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.

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Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start City AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
End CityQUEENSTOWN

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

  • New Zealand

Attractions

  • Auckland
  • Christchurch
  • Milford Sound
  • Queenstown
  • Rotorua
  • Wellington

Activities

  • Culture

View Similar Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

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. (Dinner)

AUCKLAND-CITYSCAPE.jpg

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. Befo...

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. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT ...

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 (Breakfast)

ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE This evening, you may wish to join an optional outing to e...

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, ...

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. (Breakfast,Lunch)

LOCAL FAVORITE COUNTING SHEEP In New Zealand, sheep outnumber people 16 to 1. We’ll m...

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 o...

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. (Breakfast)

CHRISTCHURCH-ARCHITECTURE.jpg

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. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIG...

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. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT SCENIC WONDERS The Franz Josef...

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 [LF] winery. Tonight,...

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 ...

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, enjoy a spec...

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. (Breakfast)

QUEENSTOWN-WATERFRONT.jpg

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Dates & Availability

Price From $5,789
Price per day$414
Last Updated: 10/2/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
15 Nov 2024
28 Nov 2024
$5,869
17 Jan 2025
30 Jan 2025
$5,859
31 Jan 2025
13 Feb 2025
$6,529
14 Feb 2025
27 Feb 2025
$6,039
28 Feb 2025
13 Mar 2025
$6,039
14 Mar 2025
27 Mar 2025
$6,599
28 Mar 2025
10 Apr 2025
$6,039
05 Sep 2025
18 Sep 2025
$5,959
19 Sep 2025
02 Oct 2025
$5,959
10 Oct 2025
23 Oct 2025
$6,639

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Globus.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Globus Reviews & Ratings

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Jjem123

Sep 2024

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Packed but interesting tour

Very packed your with many good points, but let down by poor organisation of the bus seating. I was a solo traveller who was forced to sit next to the same person fo...

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Horrible

Aug 2024

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Don’t, just don’t.

I am writing to express my extreme dissatisfaction with the hotel accommodations during my recent trip with Globus. The quality of the hotels was far below what I ex...

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Scott Howe

Aug 2024

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Celtic Highlights tour was wonderful

Celtic Highlights tour was wonderful. Stewart, our Driver was an absolute professional and very courteous to all of us. Dominic, our tour guide has an amazing knowle...

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After 90-plus years of sharing the world with travelers, Globus has set the gold standard for award-winning touring across virtually every continent. Our global network of premiere travel partners, operations experts, and hospitality pros share one goal in mind—an exceptional travel experience no matter where we travel together.

Beyond the Guidebooks.

While Italy is synonymous with spectacular food, it is the close family connection that brings generations of tradition to the table. Globus goes beyond typical tours to introduce you to local legends and local experiences not found on just any map. Meet the Bonajuto family at Antica Dolceria—the oldest confectionery in Sicily. More than 150 years after the dolceria was founded by Francesco Bonajuto, the family still serves its heavenly chocolates in the same spot, while also serving as international ambassadors of Sicilian cuisine. Che dolce!

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The Colosseum. The Prado. Saint Paul’s Cathedral. Each Globus tour always includes the legendary landmarks, the major attractions, and the must-see sites. Going beyond the iconic exteriors, we lead you to the front of the line, straight through the door, and inside the walls of Europe’s most awe-inspiring places for an exclusive look behind the scenes. With priority access, we ensure you behold the sights you’ve long dreamed of—without waiting any longer!

Do as the Locals Do.

When in Rome—or London, Paris, or Barcelona—we arrange for you to do as the locals do, not just what the tourists do. In every itinerary, we include hands-on, authentic experiences for a true taste of a day in the life. Board a private water taxi through the Grand Canal of Venice, bake scones in an Irish farmhouse, or sample Geysir Schnapps in Iceland. By striking a golf ball at St. Andrews or dancing the Sirtaki while sipping ouzo, you truly get to step into someone else’s shoes and experience the world from an insider’s perspective.

Adventure, a la Carte

While Globus vacations get you up close and personal to the world's must-see sights and unforgettable experiences, we also know the value of spending time on your own to explore as you please. After all, travel is meant to be filled with memorable moments of your own with serendipitous surprises that can’t be planned or scheduled. We build free time into every itinerary so you can leisurely explore the beckoning bookstore, tempting café table, or whimsical window shopping that's schedule free. Don’t wait a lifetime for that once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s waiting just around the corner!

Pick your Passion.

Maybe you’re an art lover, a foodie, or a history buff. Perhaps you’re moved by music, art, cuisine, or theater. Or maybe making tracks in the great outdoors is more your speed. We offer a wide array of optional excursions and activities—tailored to a variety of fitness levels and interests—so you can customize your adventure with your own personal passions and preferences. Each Globus excursion and activity has been personally tested by us and handpicked to allow you to really get to know each destination. You never have to choose between included and optional excursions, since optional activities fit seamlessly with your vacation schedule!

A Friend in Every City.

Join us and a few of our friends in your next dream destination. After all, we’ve spent over 90 years making friends in virtually every city and country in the world who let us in on local secrets, like where to find the best scone, stein, or spumoni; the best people-watching table; or the best view of wide-open spaces. Every Globus vacation includes local experts who share the stories behind the sights and Local Favorites you won’t find in the guidebooks. Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides hail from the region through which you’re traveling. No one is more familiar, passionate, or eager to share insider knowledge than our local pros!


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Logistics

Accommodation

JW Marriott AucklandWith its extensive hotel facilities and amenities, JW Marriott Auckland is one of the city's premier accommodation choices. The hotel features a fully equipped recreation center, multiple bars and restaurants, pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi. AucklandNew Zealand22 - 26 Albert StreetCopthorne Hotel & ResortThe Copthorne Hotel & Resort commands a superb waterfront location in the heart of the Bay of Islands, offering uninterrupted bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens as part of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Enjoy onsite facilities including a tennis court, spectacular free form lagoon style swimming pool, mountain bike hire and courtesy shuttle to downtown. Take it easy in the massage studio or end your day with a long cool drink in the bar.PaihiaNew ZealandTau Henare DriveDistinction Hotel RotoruaSituated adjacent to the Whakarewarewa Forest, Distinction Hotel Rotorua is located minutes away from the city center of Rotorua. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool and spa, underground private grotto spas, on-site restaurant and bar, laundry facilities and dry cleaning, and complimentary Wi-Fi. RotoruaNew Zealand390 Fenton St. PO Box 983Rydges WellingtonThe Rydges Wellington is in close proximity to Wellington's city center and harbor. The hotel blends modern amenities with timeless comfort. Guests can dine at the restaurant/bar, or maintain their workout regime at the lap pool, spa, sauna and cardio room (guest access to offsite gym). Guests can also stay connected with work or home with Wi-Fi access from anywhere in the hotel.WellingtonNew Zealand75 Featherston StreetNovotel Christchurch Cathedral SquareThe Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square is a landmark hotel featuring 154 contemporary rooms. The hotel is in the heart of the city only moments to main attractions like Cathedral Square and Hagley Park.ChristchurchNew Zealand50 Cathedral SquareScenic Hotel Franz Josef GlacierSituated close to the edge of one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier provides an inviting base in which to explore the dramatic and enticing region. Dine at the Canavans Restaurant or toast to a delightful day at the Moa Bar where both feature local food, wine and beer. Franz Josef GlacierNew Zealand36 Main RoadRamada Queenstown CentralThe Ramada Queenstown Central is ideally positioned in the heart of Queenstown with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables Mountain Range, and Walter Peak. The hotel features a fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, laundry services, and complimentary Wi-Fi. QueenstownNew ZealandCorner Stanley Street & Frankton Road,

Transportation & Flights

Participation in this tour requires a purchase of additional local flights. ,
Travel Insurance
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Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
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