Classic New Zealand

Sample Itinerary (Subject to change).

Day 1: Depart Canada

Depart today, you will cross the International Dateline and ‘lose’ a day (don’t worry you get it back on your way home).

Day 3: Arrive Auckland, New Zealand

Welcome to Aotearoa (New Zealand).  On arrival, make your way to  your Auckland city hotel. The remainder of your day is at your leisure.

Days 4-6: Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and is known as the ‘City of Sails’.  Surrounded by water, Auckland offers many harbor cruises, ferry trips to nearby small islands like Waiheke and Rangitoto and exploring quiet black-sand beaches. It is also within easy reach of wineries, hiking trails, zip-lining and more. The city’s diverse population includes influences from Maori, European, and Asian cultures that provides a range of great dining experiences around the city.

You have three days to explore Auckland and during your stay we have included the following experiences: All Blacks Experience guided tour – discover the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka, then test your rugby skills in the interactive zone. We have also included a 48-hour hop on hop off transport pass for an introduction to the city and you may choose to access top attractions (entrance is additional cost) such as Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery, Newmarket, Parnell village, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, Bastion Point and SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium.

Day 7: Auckland – Rotorua

Leave Auckland and travel south through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions to Rotorua. On the way you will explore Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm for a 2-hour guided tour of the amazing 12-acre movie set. Step into the lush pastures of ‘the Shire’, visit 44 hobbit holes and hear about the making of the movies. Continue south to the geothermal area of Rotorua, passing through the tiny town of Tirau (the corrugated iron sculpture capital of the world) and stunning Fitzgerald Glade. On arrival at your Rotorua hotel, the rest of your day is at your leisure.

Days 8-10: Rotorua

You have three days to explore the Rotorua region, known for its combination of unique geothermal activity, rich Maori culture and outdoor adventures. Rotorua is a great place to experience bubbling mud pools, active geysers, beautiful forests and lakes.  The adventures here include immersing yourself in local culture and outdoor activities such as walking, luge rides, zorbing, ziplining, mountain biking and rafting. There are many ways to experience the geothermal elements from guided cultural introductions to a hot soak in one of the many pools.

We have included the following excursion one day during your stay: Whakarewarewa Village tour – explore an authentic living Māori village, the geothermal wonders of including the famous Pōhutu geyser, boiling mud pools, steam vents and bubbling mud. See historical landmarks and buildings, including an active Marae (meeting grounds and focal point of Maori communities), WWII Memorial Archway, historic churches and tapu (sacred) burial grounds.

Day 11: Rotorua – Queenstown

Today you will head to your final stop in New Zealand in the South Island.  Fly from Auckland to Queenstown.  On arrival make your way to your hotel and the rest of your day is free.

Days 12-14: Queenstown

You have three days to explore Queenstown as you please.  Aside from its stunning lakeside location and picturesque Southern Alps backdrop, Queenstown is renowned as an adventure playground for good reason. From the thrill of jetboating bungy jumping or riding the luge, to back country 4×4 adventures, wine trails and a vintage steamship ride to a high country fare, the options here really are endless.

During your stay in Queenstown, we have included the follow experiences for you: Scenic Queenstown Gondola ride – take a cable car up 480m to Bob’s Peak.  Here you will enjoy spectacular views of lake Wakatipu, the town, The Remarkables mountain range including Coronet, Walter and Cecil Peaks. Milford Sound & Fiordland National Park tour – depart early, travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through rolling countryside to Te Anau. Continue along the spectacular alpine route of the Milford Road through impressive, awe-inspiring scenery. Upon arriving in Milford, board a cruise to the mouth of the fiord, stopping at various points for viewing of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. Enjoy scenic highlights such as Mitre Peak and Pembroke Glacier.

Day 15: Depart Queenstown, New Zealand

Your kiwi adventure comes to an end today.  Make your way to Queenstown Airport to start your journey home to Canada.

Optional Island Extension:  Queenstown (New Zealand) – Rarotonga (Cook Islands)

If you choose to add the island stay, instead of flying home today you will fly to the Cook Islands (via Auckland).  On arrival in Rarotonga you will be met and transferred to your island accommodation.  The rest of your day is free.

Days 16-19: Rarotonga

You have four days to relax and enjoy island time! Do as much exploring or as little as you please while in Rarotonga. Enjoy beaches, hiking the rugged interior, watching the sun set or visiting the local market on a Saturday. This island is just 32km around and exploring is simple, they have just two buses that travel either clockwise or anti-clockwise! Your accommodation is located on 4-acres of lush tropical gardens and offers just 24 villas on Rarotonga’s sunset coast, across from the Aroa Beach & Marine Reserve. This self-catering property has a pool, communal BBQ and kayaks. Each villa also includes air conditioning, kitchenette and an outdoor patio. During your stay we have also included the following excursions in your package:

Rarotonga island discovery – a quick introduction to the island including historical sites and places of interest, tourist services, activities and attractions including an intro to local Cook Islands Black Pearls. Muri Lagoon Day Cruise Excursion – enjoy a day on the water in a beautiful sheltered lagoon. with clear, shallow water and a glass bottom boat cruise. This natural aquarium has myriads of colourful fish and snorkelling is the ideal way to explore up close. After snorkelling, head to a small island to relax and enjoy a delicious barbeque lunch.

Day 20: Depart Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Your incredible journey comes to an end today.  You will be transferred from your hotel to Rarotonga Airport where your journey home to Canada begins.

Flying Down Under with Air New Zealand

Celebrating 85 years of flying in 2025, award-winning Air New Zealand remains a key part of the experience for Canadians travelling ‘down under’ to New Zealand and also to Australia and the Pacific Islands! from the moment you step onboard you will have a taste of kiwi hospitality, enjoy modern fleet of aircraft, a comfortable onboard experience, a commitment to sustainability plus the extra peace of mind of travelling with an airline known for its strong safety record.

Extra comfort when you upgrade:

When you contact our team to book your New Zealand trip, ask about prices to upgrade your flights and travel with the extra comfort, style and service offered by Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy or Business Class.

Want to extend your trip or customise a different New Zealand vacation itinerary? Contact our destination specialists.

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