Independent Naturally New Zealand with Sydney

16 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
Map not provided by operator
Additional images not provided by operator
Video not provided by operator
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
97%
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
none

USTOA

Group Tour
God’s Own Country…it might sound conceited, but this is how New Zealanders—or “kiwis”—refer to their country. Why? Maybe because it offers stunning beauty. Maybe because it’s one of the first countries in the world to see the sunrise. Maybe because bungee jumping first began there. Don’t worry—we won’t make you go bungee jumping, unless you choose to do that ...
20%
$6,614
From$5,319
See departure dates

Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

What's this trip about?

    God’s Own Country…it might sound conceited, but this is how New Zealanders—or “kiwis”—refer to their country. Why? Maybe because it offers stunning beauty. Maybe because it’s one of the first countries in the world to see the sunrise. Maybe because bungee jumping first began there. Don’t worry—we won’t make you go bungee jumping, unless you choose to do that on your own! Instead, we’ll show you the amazing beauty and fun cities. On this 16-day vacation, we've arranged your hotel accommodations, daily breakfast (plus two lunches), sightseeing, land transportation, and transfers from/to your hotels to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights. A one-of-a-kind special feature is the Independence by Globus Local Host®, someone who is there for you to ensure your vacation runs smoothly and you get the most out of your trip. We've arranged for you to have a Local Host in Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, and Sydney. Your vacation begins the moment you arrive in Auckland, as we can help after the long flight by getting you from the airport to your selected hotel. Your Local Host will greet you with a warm welcome and a set of materials to help you get settled and familiar with the city. The next day, we've arranged guided sightseeing with a local expert, including Queen Street, the city’s business district, Auckland University and the Domain, an inner-city park. From Auckland, we've arranged your transportation to Matamata, where you’ll visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. In Wellington, capital of New Zealand, you'll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour that reveals the local, insider stories and takes in the must-see sights. Then, you're off to Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island. Your Local Host will be waiting for you in Christchurch with materials to help you become acquainted with the area. We’ll take you on an excursion to Akaroa for a cruise to see native wildlife. From Christchurch, continue on to Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of the World." Here, we’ll take you on what will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip: a cruise on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Sometimes called the “Sound of Silence,” you’ll be awed by its abundant flora and fauna, as well as its raw beauty. And did we mention that in Rotorua we've included visits to Te Puia, home to 500 geothermal wonders. Before starting your exploration of New Zealand, stop in cosmopolitan Sydney, Australia for a three-night stay. Your visit includes a half-day city sightseeing tour including photo stops at the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge plus a visit to Bondi Beach, one of city’s famous beaches. Your Sydney Local Host is available to help you with additional sightseeing, dining, and shopping recommendations.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start City SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA</BR>
End CityQUEENSTOWN

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

Attractions

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

Activities

  • Culture

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVE IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

• Welcome to Australia’s largest city, Sydney. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Your Local Host is available to answer questions and make suggestions for sightseeing and dining.

(Breakfast)

SYDNEY-OPERA-HOUSE-AND-BRIDGE.jpg

Day 2: SYDNEY

• Enjoy a morning guided sightseeing tour which includes a photo stop at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Then, visit Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches. The remainder of the day is yours to explore.

(Breakfast) Today's I-Time Tips You may...

Day 3: SYDNEY

• Enjoy a full day at leisure in this beautiful city.

(Breakfast) Today's I-Time Tips With you free time today, why not see the city from new heights with a climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge or discover Sydney’s storied past on the Rocks Pub Tour....

Day 4: SYDNEY–AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

• Fly from Sydney to Auckland, New Zealand. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

(Breakfast)

AUCKLAND-CITYSCAPE.jpg

Day 5: AUCKLAND

• Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour. See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

(Breakfast) Today's I-Time Tips You may choose to travel to the top of Sky Tower ...

Day 6: AUCKLAND–HOBBITON–ROTORUA

• Travel via motorcoach south to visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. • Continue on to Rotorua.

(Breakfast,Lunch)

HOBBITON.jpg

Day 7: ROTORUA

• Guided sightseeing includes a visit to The National Kiwi Hatchery, Agrodome, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry and to Te Puia, where you’ll explore this geothermal wonderland. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or join in an optional exc...

Day 8: ROTORUA–WELLINGTON

• Fly to Wellington, capital of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to start exploring this vibrant city. An All Day tram pass is included.

(Breakfast)

WELLINGTON-BEEHIVE.jpg

Day 9: WELLINGTON

• Guided morning sightseeing tour takes you to see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings as well as scenic views from the top of Mount Victoria. Take in the beauty of the Wellington Botanical Gardens, then drive around the rugged Wellington coastline, discoveri...

Day 10: WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH

• Today, fly to Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island. Included in your stay is a tram pass that takes you around to the “must see” attractions. You are free to get on and off as you wish, and commentary is given by your tram driver. Please note that the pass is good for one calendar day.

(Breakfast)

CHRISTCHURCH-ARCHITECTURE.jpg

Day 11: CHRISTCHURCH. EXCURSION TO AKAROA

• Travel to Akaroa, a former French and British settlement where you will have some time to explore the charming village with its colonial architecture, galleries, and cafés. • Afterward, take a nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour for a chance to see some of the native...

Day 12: CHRISTCHURCH–QUEENSTOWN

• Fly to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The remainder of day is at leisure. Your Local Host will have suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Why not take a stroll by the lake and enjoy the sunset this evening?

(Breakfast)

QUEENSTOWN-CITYSCAPE.jpg

Day 13: QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND

• Enjoy a full-day excursion to Milford Sound. First, travel by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. View the Mirror Lakes as you pass through Eglinton Valley. From the Homer Tunnel, emerge into Cleddau Valley...

Day 14: QUEENSTOWN

• Today is yours to explore as much or as little as you wish. Options include a scenic bike riding excursion, an exciting helicopter flight over the Remarkables Mountains, tee up for a round of golf, sip some local wines or just relax with a spa treatment.

(Breakfast)

QUEENSTOWN-WATERFRONT.jpg

Day 15: QUEENSTOWN

• Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns.

(Breakfast) Today's I-Time Tips Perhaps choose a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River, visit a local winery to sample some of the region’s best, take a historic steamship across beau...

Day 16: QUEENSTOWN

• Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(Breakfast)

QUEENSTOWN-LAKEFRONT.jpg

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip

Dates & Availability

Price From $5,319
Price per day$332
Last Updated: 10/14/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
23 Nov 2024
08 Dec 2024
$5,419
24 Nov 2024
09 Dec 2024
$5,419
25 Nov 2024
10 Dec 2024
$5,419
26 Nov 2024
11 Dec 2024
$5,419
27 Nov 2024
12 Dec 2024
$5,419
28 Nov 2024
13 Dec 2024
$5,419
29 Nov 2024
14 Dec 2024
$5,419
30 Nov 2024
15 Dec 2024
$5,419
01 Dec 2024
16 Dec 2024
$5,419
02 Dec 2024
17 Dec 2024
$5,419

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

4.7/5  Excellent
Excellent
9,216
Great
1,889
Average
374
Disappointing
98
Terrible
212
Write a Review

Other Globus Reviews

S

Surveyor

Nov 2024

Written on

Visions of Japan was our first…

Visions of Japan was our first international trip ever, so we were nervous, but as it turns out, we had no reason to be - everything went so smoothly! Our guide was ...

N

Nicole

Nov 2024

Written on

Was not as great as previous Globus…

Was not as great as previous Globus trips. Wasted time in Dublin. Other travelers constantly late for bus. Felt more like Monograms where were brought to a town, are...

D

Dennis Mooney

Nov 2024

Written on

Wonderful trip Excellent tour director

Wonderful trip Excellent tour director

Write a Review

Tour Operator

Globus

none
View Profile

Why Travel with Globus?

Perfectly Planned. Seriously Stress Free.

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!

Don’t Miss the Must Sees.

Why stand in line to catch a fleeting glimpse of ancient ruins and remarkable historic sites? Globus gives you VIP access with an expert Local Guide to go deeper, get closer, and soak it all in. From the Parthenon to the Vatican museums, you’ll explore Europe’s most beloved locations without getting lost in a crowd or waiting in line. Don’t just file past masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David or get only a hurried look at the Crown Jewels in Edinburgh Castle. Experience Europe’s extraordinary sights—and historic sites—with the VIP access you deserve.

Dreams Realized.

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!


Tweets by globusfamily

What they’re known for
Industry-leading guided tours to classic bucket list destinations and attractions around the world.

Associations

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip

An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.

Save time

Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.

Save money

Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.

Travel confidently

Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.

Logistics

Accommodation

Swissotel Sydney

The Swissotel Sydney is surrounded by Sydney's most exclusive shopping centres, such as the beautiful Queen Victoria Building and iconic Westfield Sydney and is within walking distance to all of Sydney's famous landmarks and cultural attractions. Enjoy a seasonally inspired dinner menu at JPB or delight in a unique buffet high tea at Crossroads Bar. The hotel offers a wide choice of treatments at the Day Spa as well as a gym, heated outdoor pool and Jacuzzi.

Sydney

Australia

68 Market Street

Adina Auckland Britomart

Situated in downtown Auckland, Adina Auckland Britomart is only minutes away from the City's best offerings. The hotel features a fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, apartment-style guestrooms with laundry available, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Auckland

New Zealand

2 Tapora Street

Distinction Hotel Rotorua

Situated 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.

Rotorua

New Zealand

390 Fenton St. PO Box 983

Atura Wellington

Atura Wellington is perfectly positioned within comfortable walking distance of Lambton Quay shopping, vibrant waterfront dining and all the must-see events at Sky Stadium.

Wellington

New Zealand

24 Hawkestone St

Rydges Latimer Christchurch

The Rydges Latimer Christchurch overlooks scenic Latimer Square, in the heart of the city. Guests are invited to enjoy the restaurant/bar, sauna and fitness center, and free unlimited WIFI throughout the hotel.

Christchurch

New Zealand

30 Latimer Square

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Within a tranquil, garden setting, the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront blends superior facilities and comfort with friendly, personal service and offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountain peaks. The resort is a short stroll from the town center, and minutes from Queenstown's key tourist attractions and adventure activities. After a great day of sightseeing, relax at the Impressions Cocktail Bar and Impressions Restaurant with views over the lake and mountains or take a dip in the two spa pools. Wireless broadband internet access is available in all public areas (fee may apply). The hotel also features coin-operated, self-service laundry.

Queenstown

New Zealand

Corner Frankton Rd & Adelaide St

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
globus-IPN3

Become a member

(it's free)
  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations
Sign up and save
Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >