22 Day New Zealand Explorer Northbound (Christchurch to Auckland)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Christchurch

Arrive early and discover why Christchurch is known as the 'Garden City'. Visit Hagley Park or hire a punt and glide down the Avon River. The trip begins with a welcome meeting at approximately 6pm.

Day 2 – Punakaiki

Leave the big city behind and head over the Canterbury Plains on to Punakaiki, located on New Zealand's wild West Coast.

Days 3 and 4 – Franz Josef Glacier

Sit back and relax on a breathtaking drive along the coast, passing forests, lakes and hidden beaches. Arrive in Franz Josef and choose from an array of optional activities here. Join a guided hike across the glacier, go for a kayak, take a spin on a quad bike or enjoy unrivalled views of the region on a scenic flight (optional activities own expense).

Days 5 – 8 Queenstown

Soak up mountain vistas, meandering rivers and glassy lakes while travelling to Queenstown. Be sure to have your camera batteries charged as there'll be countless photo opportunities along the way. Then be spoilt for choice in the undisputed adventure capital of New Zealand. Jet boat, bungee jump, mountain bike, paraglide and kayak around Queenstown before taking time out on the Skyline Gondola (all activities apart from the Gondola trip are at own expense). There is also a huge variety of shops, restaurants and fun things to see in town.

Day 9 – Milford Sound

Explore Milford Sound on a cruise (seasonal May – September). When weather permits, kayak its tranquil bays and search out bottlenose dolphins, seals and crested penguins. This area dishes up scenery that is nothing short of breathtaking, with tall mountain peaks, waterfalls and crystal clear water.

Day 10 – Mt Cook

Be dwarfed by spectacular Aoraki (Mt Cook) which, at an impressive 3,754 m (12,316 ft), is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Explore meadows, lakes, streams and glaciers which shelter the world's only alpine parrot, the kea.

Day 11 – Christchurch

This morning at Mt Cook we hope to catch a view of this spectacular mountain and hike some of the lower trails. There are wonderful lake views and photo opportunities galore. We then return to Christchurch and further explore this picturesque and welcoming city.

Day 12 – Kaikoura

Depart Christchurch and head out to sea and spot whales off the coast of Kaikoura, a town famous for its fresh seafood and marine life.

Days 13 and 14 – Nelson

Today we journey to Nelson, in the heart of wine making country. Bushwalking tracks among these gorgeous inlets and coves are just begging to be explored. It is also possible to fit in a spot of fishing, take a winery tour or perhaps just wander through the eclectic range of shops in Nelson.

Days 15 and 16 – Wellington

Enjoy a cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds on a ferry between the North and South Island. Explore Wellington's buzzing cafe scene or ride a cable car to the Botanic Gardens, taking in spectacular views of the city and harbour.

Day 17 – Mt Ruapehu

Be inspired and captivated by the majesty of Mt Ruapehu. Perhaps hike the famous Tongariro Crossing track or take a different route through the lower forest. If feeling adventurous, activities like skiing and snowboarding are available during the winter months.

Day 18 – Taupo to Rotorua

Visit the spectacular Huka Falls and take the opportunity to bungy or jet boat in Taupo - the North Island's home of extreme sports (own expense). Rotorua's geysers, bubbling mud pools and volcanic cliffs are shaped by seismic forces.

Day 19 – Waitomo

Discover Waitomo, which is famous for its limestone caves, glow worms and blackwater rafting. This is an unforgettable trip involving hiking and descending an underground river floating on an inner tube (own expense).

Days 20 and 21 – Bay of Islands

We leave Waitomo and drive north through fantastic scenery towards New Zealand's winterless north. Explore the beautiful Bay of Islands on an overnight cruise that incorporates all the water activities, as well as plenty of time to soak up the stunning scenery and spot for wildlife.

Day 22 – Auckland

We make our way back South passing unspoiled beaches and lush forests. The final leg of New Zealand Explorer tour lands travellers in Auckland. Enjoy crossing the harbour bridge with a great view of the 'City of Sails'.