Inspiring Journeys 10 Day Inspiring New Zealand

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to the City of Sails, New Zealand's invigorating North Island hub and one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Enjoy a city sights tour and experience Auckland

Soak up Auckland's intoxicating charm this morning as you embark on a city sightseeing tour that begins at the city waterfront and ends in Mission Bay. Admire magnificent views of Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto and the picturesque Auckland city skyline. Then, travel by ferry to Waiheke Island for a culinary extravaganza of bold reds and sweet olives. Your first stop is Stonyridge Vineyard, where you'll enjoy a tour and tastings plus a light lunch, over views of the vineyard. Continue your love affair with Waiheke at Casita Miro, savouring delicious Mediterranean flavours. Your final stop is at Mudbrick Vineyard where you'll enjoy delicate chardonnay paired with spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf. The evening is yours to continue your gourmet exploration of Auckland. Consider dinner at the trendy Wynyard Quarter in the heart of the city or at Viaduct Harbour.

Auckland to Rotorua

Your leisurely discovery of New Zealand's North Island continues as you follow the meandering trail of the Waikato River to the home of Lance and Bridgette O'Sullivan, of New Zealand horse racing fame, for a Be My Guest experience, a traditional country-style lunch at the Red Barn on their beautiful Waikato Farm. Journey to the volatile landscapes of Rotorua, where Māori culture takes centre stage. Visit the Tamaki Māori Village for insights into the local rituals and traditions of this fascinating culture. Embrace their gracious Hongi greeting, experience the heart-pounding wero challenge and enjoy a Highlight Dinner, the delicious flavours of the Hangi cooked in the earth with geothermal steam.

Rotorua Sights

Embark on one of the Included Choice sightseeing experiences today to explore the sacred lands, thermal marvels and Māori traditions of Rotorua. Indulge in the Polynesian Spa's healing waters, tread in the footsteps of Bilbo Baggins in the fantasy-land of Hobbiton or if you're up for a challenge, take the native forest zipline adventure tour with Canopy Tours.

Rotorua to Wellington

Come face-to-face with New Zealand's indigenous creatures that find sanctuary alongside the crystal-clear mineral water springs and within the lush surrounds of Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Leave the shy kiwis behind for an encounter with the local Māori community at Whakawerawera Living Village and an introduction to the bubbling geysers, mud pools and thermal springs of Rotorua. A local guide will show you New Zealand's largest geyser before you board your flight to Wellington, the Capital of Cool. Spend the evening at your leisure, enjoying dinner at one of the quirky cafes at Courtenay Place or Cuba Street.

Explore Wellington

A foodie extravaganza awaits this morning as you join a local guide to sample the delicious gourmet delights shared over fascinating stories of Welly. Embrace your inner hipster as you explore the charming Victorian architecture and savour the city's coffee culture, visiting several local gems with an expert to indulge in the city's specialities. This afternoon, continue to the urban eco-sanctuary of Zealandia, admiring the extraordinary efforts of conservationists who have reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife that were absent from mainland New Zealand for over a century.

Wellington to Queenstown

This morning, explore New Zealand's fascinating culture, nature, heritage and art at Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, joining a guide who will reveal the stories behind the exhibitions. Then it's time to prime yourselves for a few days of adventure, flying to Queenstown, New Zealand's adrenalin capital. On arrival, journey to the gold-rush village of Arrowtown. Enjoy an orientation tour of Queenstown, and gaze at the natural splendour in its midst - from the peaks of the Remarkables to beautiful Lake Wakatipu.

Doubtful Sound cruise

Journey deep into the heart of Fiordland National Park. From the silence of the Sounds to the ancient rainforests, the beauty and vastness will leave you speechless. Your day begins in Manapouri, where you'll embark on a cruise across the loveliest of all the Fiordland lakes, Lake Manapouri. Meander through epic surrounds, across New Zealand's most expensive road over Wilmot Pass. Boarding a cruise, take to the waters of Doubtful Sound, keeping your eyes peeled for the diverse species that call this beautiful body of water home.

Explore Queenstown

You have a full day to indulge your adventurous side, selecting one of the Included Choice sightseeing experiences on offer in Queenstown. Enjoy a guided walk through a native beech forest or embark on a 4WD minibus tour through the scenic gorge of Skippers Canyon. For a more sedate encounter with the adrenalin capital, visit one of the nearby wineries to sample award-winning vintages. Your Travel Director will assist you in booking any of your chosen Included Choice experiences. As your final day ends, spend the evening together enjoying a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant and toast to shared memories of an epic encounter with New Zealand's north and south.

Depart Queentown

For now, all that's left to say is a fond farewell as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end after breakfast. E noho rā New Zealand - we hope for a speedy return