Christchurch, Auckland, Lake Tekapo, Waitomo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Maori Cultural, Mackenzie District Dark Sky Reserve
Trip Duration: 8-15 days
Highlights: Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, Christchurch City, Aukland City, Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve and astronomy studies, glacial studies, Hooker Valley Trail, Waitomo glowworm cave, 300′ Rappel/spelunking
Discover why they call it the land of NEW ZEAL! Explore the seemingly untouched land of the ‘long white cloud’.
Sea Kayak, explore Hobbiton for yourself, bungee jump, trek the Southern Alps, learn of the rich heritage and cultural ways of the indigenous Maori people. Take one of the most scenic drives on New Zealand’s unique and rugged west coast, discover pristine beaches and seal colonies, enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the glowworm caves or go whale watching. Learn of New Zealand’s unique farming industry and take in the adventure and thrills in Queenstown!
We can tailor a unique and unforgettable visit for your group in this enchanting land.
Activities: Geothermal & Volcanology, Maori cultural study, kayaking, hiking, skiing, , Post Earthquake Service, Hobbiton, Film Set Visits
Christchurch, New Zealand
Rotorua, New Zealand
Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
glow worm caves
hot water beach
(Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve
Click to view - New Zealand Itinerary
DAY 1: TRAVEL DAY
- Evening departure from LAX or SFO
- Cross International Date Line
DAY 2: AUCKLAND
- Morning arrival in Auckland
- Walking tour: discover how this beautiful harbor city!
- Drive to Rotorua
- Visit Te Puia Cultural Center and learn about and experience indigenous Maori culture
DAY 3: ROTORUA
- Visit Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal wonderland
- Drive to Waitomo
DAY 4: WAITOMO & SOUTH ISLAND
- Experience Waitomo’s Lost World: Abseil 300 ft into glowworm caves!
- Drive to Auckland Airport
- Depart for Christchurch
- Dinner and check into Christchurch hotel
DAY 5: LAKE TEKAPO & STAR GAZING
- Depart for Lake Tekapo. Enjoy multiple stops along the way exploring New Zealand’s natural beauty.
- Arrive Tekapo. Enjoy scouting Lake Tekapo and the surrounding area.
- Dinner
- Experience South Island star gazing in the Mackenzie District, International Dark Sky Reserve! Prepare to see the stars and solar systems in one of the darkest sky regions on Earth.
DAY 6: MT COOK & TASMAN GLACIER
- Depart for Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
- Visit Lake Pukaki
- Hike the stunning Hooker Valley Trail
- Take a boat ride to get a close view of the Tasman Glacier
- Depart for Lake Tekapo lodging
DAY 7: CHRISTCHURCH
- Depart for Christchurch
- Explore Christchurch city and learn about how this city has recovered from a devastating earthquake in 2011
- Take in the stunning views surrounding Christchurch on an evening Crater Rim trail hike just outside of Christchurch
DAY 8: Depart
- Breakfast
- Depart for home
Additional Itinerary option:
*Add 2-3 days to explore more of New Zealand’s North or South Islands or to add Australia as a stopover. Inquire with your trip planner regarding these options.
Included in your journey
Custom Itinerary
IMJ Tour Director
Activities
Flights
Accommodation
Meals
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