16 Day Kiwi Unleashed Northbound (Christchurch to Auckland)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Christchurch to Fox Glacier

Our trip begins in Christchurch, a city heroically rebuilding itself following the earthquakes of 2011. We set off to enjoy some of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping scenery today as we drive a pass over the stunning Southern Alps. We stop in Hokitika and visit a jade factory, then it’s on to Lake Matheson to see the reflection of NZ’s two highest peaks. We overnight in Fox Glacier. (BD)

Day 2 – Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Why not make some unforgettable memories today with an optional half-day hike on Fox Glacier? If you’re looking for something really memorable then a heli-hike to the upper reaches of this river of ice may tempt you. Afterwards, our scenic drive passes beauty spots Thunder Creek Falls, Haast River and stunning Lake Wanaka en-route to the adrenaline capital Queenstown. (B)

Day 3 – Queenstown

Prepare yourself for an active day in Queenstown, an all-action town with an unbelievable setting. Your options include bungy jumping, a canyon swing, the Shotover Jet, horse-riding, boat safari, mountain biking and the skyline gondola. Then there’s our included visit to Arrow River to pan for gold and a dinner at the world-famous Winnie’s Bar. (BD)

Day 4 – Queenstown to Fiordland (Milford Sound Cruise)

Today we’re off to the awe-inspiring Fiordland region, via the township of Te Anau, Mirror Lake and Hollyford Valley. This afternoon we enjoy a Nature Cruise on the astonishing Milford Sound. Keep an eye out for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and even penguins. We stay overnight in a lodge in the Fiordland. (BD)

Day 5 – Fiordland to Lake Ohau

A day of contrasting scenery – from the Lord of the Rings landscapes along the Kawarau River, we’ll notice the backdrop change as we cross Lindis Pass and make for our lakeside lodge retreat at Lake Ohau. This evening, why not enjoy a drink on the deck as the sunset silhouettes Mt Cook to the west. (BD)

Day 6 – Lake Ohau to Christchurch (via Mt Cook Village)

After waking to magnificent views, we make tracks to Mt. Cook village and Lake Pukaki for some photos – hopefully we’ll get views of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt Cook, which is known as Aoraki (‘cloud-piercer’) to the Maori people.  We then head to our Kiwi Farm Experience in Fairlie – here we can learn about life on a sheep station and see the Collie dogs in action. Later we head back to Christchurch for the night. (B)

Day 7 – Christchurch to Nelson via Kaikoura

We head north to coastal Kaikoura, where we can try some optional whale watching or dolphin/seal swimming (summer) or relax by the fire with a glass of wine at a local winery (winter). Look out for fur seals at Ohau Point before entering the wine-growing region of Marlborough, stopping off in picturesque Blenheim on the way to Nelson. (B)

Day 8 – Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park)

Today we can visit nearby Abel Tasman National Park to stroll the many walking tracks or take an optional ocean kayak trip. Other choices include horse-riding, quad biking and even skydiving. Tonight we enjoy a Kiwi BBQ dinner. (BD)

Day 9 – Nelson to Wellington

We leave the South Island for the North Island, travelling by ferry through the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Later, discover why Wellington is New Zealand’s coolest city. With its funky galleries, designer shops, top museums, a scenic cable car, great restaurants and stylish bars, there is something here for everyone. (B)

Day 10 – Wellington to Tongariro National Park

Leaving the capital we head north to the striking volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park. You may recognise some of the views. The national parked doubled as Mordor in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Tonight enjoy a traditional lamb roast in our Alpine resort. (BD)

Day 11­ – Tongariro National Park

Hike one of the many trails, hire a mountain bike or even ski (during winter) on your free day in Tongariro National Park. Later you can relax in the sauna or spa pool at our accommodation. (B)

Day 12 – Tongariro National Park to Rotarua (Marae Experience)

We visit the massive Lake Taupo and the Taupo bungy over the Waikato River (jump optional!). After a stop at the raging Huka falls we head to Whakarewarewa Village and Thermal Reserve for a guided tour before heading to the heart of Maori culture, Rotorua. Tonight we’ll stay in a traditional Maori Marae (sacred meeting house) for an evening of history and legend. (BD)

Day 13 – Rotorua

A day to explore geothermal Rotorua – notice the distinct smell? You can hire a mountain bike, go white-water rafting, visit the famous thermal spa pools or splash out for a massage. Tonight we check out the nightlife. (B)

Day 14 – Rotorua to Paihia, Bay of Islands

After stopping off in Auckland for lunch, we head right up to the north of the country to the seaside town of Paihia, nestled among the Bay of Islands. An optional ‘Rock the Boat’ overnight upgrade could see you sailing among the 144 islands, stargazing from the deck and sharing laughs at the cosy bar. (B)

Day 15 – Paihia, Bay of Islands

A free day to explore this fascinating area. Optional activities include a catamaran cruise to spot dolphins, a kayak trip through mangrove forests and even sand-boarding down the Te Paki sand dunes. You can also learn about Kiwi history at Waitangi Treaty House or maybe hike to Haruru Falls through native bush. (BD)

Day 16 – Paihia, Bay Of Islands to Auckland

We travel south back to cosmopolitan Auckland. Also known as the City of Sails thanks to its harbour setting, it is the largest city in the country and has an abundance of shops to stock up on souvenirs and many great bars to toast our fabulous New Zealand experience. (B)