Haere mai – welcome to New Zealand! After your long journey across the globe, you’ll touch down in vibrant Auckland, the nation’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your Lumle Holidays representative and transferred in comfort to your hotel.

Check in to the stylish and centrally located M Social Auckland, your base for exploring the city’s urban energy and coastal charm. Situated on the edge of the sparkling Waitematā Harbour, this hotel puts you right at the heart of the action.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander along the lively Viaduct Harbour promenade, indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront eatery, or browse the boutiques of Queen Street. You may also wish to take a stroll through the leafy Albert Park or venture up the Sky Tower for panoramic views stretching from coast to coast (optional, at extra cost).

Whether you choose to unwind or explore, your first evening in the City of Sails sets the tone for an unforgettable adventure across Aotearoa – the land of the long white cloud.

Accommodation: M Social Auckland

After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey out of Auckland, travelling through the lush and fertile landscapes of the Hauraki Plains. As you make your way south and then east, the scenery transforms from rural farmland to rugged coastline and native forest as you enter the Coromandel Peninsula – one of New Zealand’s most treasured coastal gems.

Enjoy a truly spectacular coastal drive along the western edge of the peninsula. On a clear day, don’t miss the distant silhouette of the iconic Sky Tower, visible across the Firth of Thames. This route offers endless photographic moments, with winding roads that hug the coastline and reveal secluded bays, pohutukawa-fringed beaches, and charming seaside hamlets.

Your journey includes a visit to the unique Driving Creek Railway (optional, at extra cost) – a narrow-gauge mountain railway that climbs 120 metres through regenerating native forest to the quirky ‘EyeFull Tower’. From here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding bushland and out over the Hauraki Gulf.

Continue your scenic drive across the spine of the peninsula, soaking in lush hillscapes and rainforest-lined valleys, before descending to the charming resort town of Whitianga, located on the sparkling shores of Mercury Bay.

Accommodation: Oceans Resort, Whitianga

Upon arrival in Auckland (on Day 3 due to the time difference and crossing the International Date Line), a friendly Lumle representative will be waiting to greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Your epic New Zealand adventure officially begins then – but for now, sit back, relax, and let the journey begin.

Breakfast included

Breakfast sets you up for a day of exploration in one of New Zealand’s most idyllic coastal regions. The Coromandel Peninsula is a patchwork of white cliffs, golden beaches, emerald forests, and – in summer – bursts of crimson from the flowering Pōhutukawa trees, often called the New Zealand Christmas tree. It's a spectacular landscape that perfectly blends relaxation and adventure.

Begin with a visit to the iconic Hot Water Beach, where geothermally heated mineral springs rise through the golden sands. If the tide is right, you can dig your very own spa pool and soak in the warm waters (tide-dependent experience – optional, at extra cost). It's a quintessential Kiwi experience unlike any other.

Next, stroll along the soft sands of Hahei Beach, taking in the dramatic coastal scenery – a paradise for photographers and beach lovers alike. The beauty of the area is pure and untouched, with limestone formations rising out of turquoise seas and native bush hugging the shoreline.

Later, head to the historical Cooks Beach, named after Captain James Cook, who sailed into Mercury Bay aboard the HMS Endeavour in 1769. Today, this long, crescent-shaped beach is a beloved summer getaway for locals and remains one of the Coromandel's hidden gems.

From Cooks Beach, you have two return options: either join your driver for the scenic road back or choose the local experience of a short ferry ride across to Whitianga, followed by a relaxing walk to your accommodation (optional, at extra cost).

Accommodation: Oceans Resort, Whitianga

Breakfast included

After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula and set off on a spectacular drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Today’s route showcases the best of New Zealand’s coastal beauty as you journey through picturesque beachside towns like Whangamatā and Tauranga, nestled in the lush, sun-drenched region known as the Bay of Plenty.

Enjoy ever-changing scenery – from crashing surf and golden sands to forested hills and sprawling orchards – before turning inland toward Rotorua. En route, stop for a refreshing nature break with a short, well-formed bushwalk offering scenic lookouts over Okere Falls, a favourite with white-water rafters and nature lovers alike.

Arrive in Rotorua, the beating heart of New Zealand’s geothermal activity and a sacred centre of Māori heritage. Steam vents hiss from the earth, bubbling mud pools gurgle, and the scent of sulphur hangs in the air – a raw, powerful reminder of the natural forces at work beneath your feet.

This afternoon, enjoy a visit to the world-renowned Te Puia – an unmissable highlight of any trip to Rotorua. Far more than just a geothermal park, Te Puia is also home to the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and an active Kiwi conservation programme. Here, a private guide will accompany you throughout your visit, offering insights into the steaming geysers, cultural traditions, and the welcoming spirit of the tangata whenua (people of the land).

Te Puia’s commitment to Māori hospitality ensures you’re not just a visitor – you’re treated as part of the family. It's an enriching and immersive experience that connects you deeply with Aotearoa’s culture, history, and environment.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua

Breakfast | Dinner included

Today offers a chance to tailor your Rotorua experience with a choice between two captivating excursions — whether you’re drawn to the dramatic geothermal landscapes shaped by ancient eruptions or the enchanting green hills of Middle-earth.

Option A: Waimangu Volcanic Valley & Lake Rotomahana Cruise (included – pre-selection required)

Step into an otherworldly realm shaped by one of New Zealand’s most powerful natural events — the 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarawera. This catastrophic eruption destroyed entire Māori villages and obliterated the famed Pink and White Terraces, once hailed as the eighth wonder of the world.

Today, the hauntingly beautiful Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a geothermal wonderland of steaming craters, boiling springs, and jewel-toned lakes. Walk through the alien-like landscape and board a relaxing cruise on Lake Rotomahana, where new silica terraces are slowly forming and the story of Guide Sophia and her heroic actions during the eruption comes to life.

Option B: Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set (optional experience, at extra cost)

Journey into the magical world of Middle-earth with a visit to the charming Hobbiton Movie Set, nestled in the rolling hills of Waikato. Your expert guide will walk you through the picturesque 10-acre site that brought The Shire to life in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Wander past Hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Millhouse, and explore Bagshot Row, with a peek inside one of the meticulously detailed Hobbit Holes. This immersive experience is a must for film fans and lovers of enchanting landscapes.

This evening: Immerse yourself in the warmth of Māori tradition at the award-winning Te Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village), where you’ll experience a powerful celebration of heritage, cuisine, and community.

Aligned with the Māori lunar calendar (maramataka), this cultural encounter changes with the seasons. In the warmer months, Tū Te Rā honours harvest, peace, and ancient warfare. During winter, Tū Te Ihi celebrates the celestial arrival of the Matariki star cluster with mystical storytelling, passion, and energy.

Set within a forest-formed amphitheatre surrounded by Tawa trees and blazing bonfires, you’ll be treated to a four-course fusion hākari (feast), beginning with forest horotai (canapés) and ending with dishes inspired by seasonal Māori flavours. Enjoy the traditional Hāngī, served al fresco or in the wharekai (dining house), depending on the weather.

Return hotel transfers are included. Please note this is a shared experience with other guests.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua

Breakfast included

Depart the geothermal heart of Rotorua this morning and begin your journey through the North Island’s dramatic interior. Your first stop is the awe-inspiring Huka Falls, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder through a narrow volcanic ravine every second, creating a powerful and photogenic cascade.

Continue south to the vast expanse of Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake – more like an inland sea than a lake. Formed by a supervolcanic eruption nearly two thousand years ago, its calm, trout-rich waters reflect the peaks of the mighty Tongariro National Park, including Mounts Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe, and Tongariro, sacred to the Māori people and dramatic in any season.

The journey continues east through rolling farmland and vineyards to reach the seaside city of Napier, a gem of the Hawke’s Bay region and a global treasure for lovers of Art Deco architecture. Leveled by a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier rose from the ashes in the bold, geometric, and joyful style of the era. Today, it’s regarded as one of the most complete and well-preserved Art Deco cities in the world — second only, perhaps, to Miami Beach.

This afternoon, meet your local guide for an engaging walking tour of Napier, where history, tragedy, and triumph come alive through colourful stories and beautiful buildings. Admire sunbursts, zigzags, and elegant façades that pay tribute to a time of glamour and innovation, all set against a backdrop of blue skies and ocean breeze.

This evening, you’ll be treated to a special culinary experience in New Zealand’s oldest winery — the renowned Mission Estate. Dine within the beautifully restored seminary buildings overlooking Napier, and enjoy a sumptuous meal paired with fine wines amidst sweeping vineyard views. It’s a perfect introduction to the rich gastronomic culture of the region.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier

Breakfast | Dinner included

Depart the charming seaside town of Napier this morning and journey south through the fertile landscapes of Hawke’s Bay, renowned for its lush vineyards and fruit-laden orchards. As the road winds through the bush-clad hills and rugged ranges of the Wairarapa, soak in views of native forest, misty valleys, and picturesque farmlands.

Your destination is Wellington, the vibrant capital city of New Zealand, beautifully positioned between a sweeping harbour and forested hills. On arrival, enjoy a panoramic drive past the country’s stately Parliament Buildings, including the iconic circular structure known as the Beehive — a symbol of Kiwi democracy and design.

Ascend to the Kelburn Lookout for sweeping views of the city, harbour, and surrounding ranges, then descend into the heart of the capital aboard the historic Wellington Cable Car, a beloved local attraction offering a charming perspective of the urban landscape.

Later, delve deep into the story of Aotearoa at Te Papa Tongarewa — New Zealand’s groundbreaking national museum. Te Papa offers a captivating and interactive journey through the country’s unique geology, natural history, and cultural identity. Discover immersive exhibitions on Māori and Pacific cultures, stunning art collections, and cutting-edge displays that explore the spirit of New Zealand’s people and land.

This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in Wellington, often referred to as the nation’s cultural and culinary capital, where creativity and cuisine go hand in hand.

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton, Wellington

Breakfast | Dinner included

This morning begins with one of the world’s most spectacular ferry crossings — a journey that takes you from New Zealand’s North Island to the South Island via the stunning Cook Strait and the tranquil waterways of Queen Charlotte Sound. As the ferry glides through deep blue waters flanked by forested hills and hidden coves, keep an eye out for playful dolphins riding the bow waves and seabirds soaring overhead — a magical and scenic start to your South Island adventure.

Arrive in the port town of Picton and travel inland to Blenheim, located in the heart of the world-famous Marlborough wine region. Known globally for its crisp, aromatic Sauvignon Blanc, this sun-soaked valley is a haven for wine lovers. Stop for a visit to one of the region’s premier wineries, where you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting experience and have the opportunity to savour some of the best vintages Marlborough has to offer (included).

Continue your journey westward through rolling vineyards and golden farmland as you head into the Nelson district — a region blessed with New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours and a strong reputation for art, nature, and fresh regional produce. Nestled between national parks and coastal splendour, Nelson will be your base for the next two nights, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.

Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel, Nelson

Breakfast included

Welcome to paradise! Today, discover the breathtaking beauty of Abel Tasman National Park — a sun-drenched haven of golden coves, turquoise lagoons, and lush native forest. With few roads cutting through this remote region, most journeys here are made by boat, offering you the rare chance to explore one of New Zealand’s most idyllic coastal landscapes by sea and on foot.

Depart Nelson in the morning for Kaiteriteri, the park’s gateway. From here, choose one of the following included activity options to suit your pace and preferences:

Option A: Full Park Scenic Cruise (Non-Walking) (included)

Settle in for a relaxing 3–4 hour cruise through the entire stretch of Abel Tasman National Park. View the iconic Split Apple Rock, spot New Zealand Fur Seals basking on the rocks, and admire the shimmering sands and jewel-toned bays of Anchorage, Bark Bay, Tonga Quarry, Awaroa, and Tōtaranui Beach. After the cruise, spend some free time soaking up the laid-back charm of Kaiteriteri before returning to Nelson via late afternoon shuttle.

Option B: Astrolabe Beaches and Bays Walk (7km – 2.5 hours) (included – moderate fitness)

After the scenic cruise, disembark at Apple Tree Bay and enjoy a self-guided walk along a well-marked coastal track to stunning Anchorage Beach. Along the way, pass through quiet forest, sandy coves, and panoramic viewpoints. A shuttle returns you to Nelson in the late afternoon.

Option C: Forest and Swing-Bridge Walk (10.5km – 4 hours) (included – active option)

Disembark at Medlands Beach and embark on a rewarding self-guided trek to Anchorage via some of the park’s most iconic highlights. Take in sweeping views from the South Head lookout, cross the dramatic Falls River swing-bridge, and pause at the emerald waters of Cleopatra’s Pool for a refreshing rest. This walk offers the perfect balance of forest, coastline, and scenic challenge before your return shuttle to Nelson.

Whichever option you choose, today’s experience in Abel Tasman National Park will leave you with unforgettable memories of one of New Zealand’s most magical regions.

Accommodation: Heritage Rutherford Hotel, Nelson

Breakfast included

Leave sunny Nelson behind this morning and journey into the dramatic heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Your route takes you through the majestic landscapes of Nelson Lakes National Park, an enchanting alpine wilderness where craggy peaks meet glacial valleys, mirror-like lakes, and dense native forest. Pause at the peaceful village of St. Arnaud, set on the shores of the serene Lake Rotoiti, where reflections of the surrounding mountains ripple across pristine waters — a picture-perfect moment of tranquillity.

Continue into the depths of the wild interior as you follow the course of the powerful Buller River Gorge. Often cited as one of the world’s most spectacular yet underrated drives, this twisting route clings to the forested hillsides and crosses the river via narrow, single-lane bridges originally carved out by 19th-century gold prospectors. The scenery here is raw, untamed, and staggeringly beautiful — a true feast for the eyes.

Emerging from the dense forest, the road soon hugs the dramatic West Coast, where misty hills tumble down to windswept beaches and crashing waves. Your destination is the tiny coastal settlement of Punakaiki, famous for its otherworldly ‘Pancake Rocks’ — a series of layered limestone formations that resemble stacks of giant stone pancakes. Sculpted over millions of years by wind, sea, and time, these curious formations are both fascinating and photogenic, especially at high tide when seawater surges through blowholes in dramatic bursts.

With the wild ocean on one side and rainforest-clad cliffs on the other, Punakaiki offers a striking introduction to the rugged charm of New Zealand’s West Coast.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel, Punakaiki

Breakfast included

This morning, continue your epic South Island journey as you head south along the legendary Great Coast Road, recently voted by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten coastal drives in the world. This rugged stretch of road hugs the untamed shoreline of the West Coast, where rainforest-draped cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Tasman Sea, and every bend in the road reveals a new cinematic vista.

Pause in the historic gold rush town of Hokitika, famous for its thriving arts scene and its role in preserving traditional Māori craftsmanship. Here, you can explore artisan galleries that specialise in pounamu (greenstone) carvings and jewellery, uniquely sourced from the nearby rivers and held in deep cultural significance.

Stretch your legs with a stop at the striking Hokitika Gorge, where the surreal turquoise-blue waters flow through steep rocky walls framed by lush greenery — a hidden gem that feels a world away from civilisation.

As the journey continues south, you’ll pass through a changing landscape of ancient forests, rolling farmland, and sweeping coastal views, with the snowy Southern Alps looming to the east. Arrive first in the glacier town of Franz Josef, before continuing a short distance to the more remote and peaceful village of Fox Glacier.

Here, the dramatic Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers descend from massive snowfields high in the Southern Alps and flow almost to sea level — a rare and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. These rivers of ancient ice carve their way through valleys cloaked in rainforest, creating a landscape of astonishing contrasts.

For those looking to truly take in the scale and majesty of this region, consider an optional helicopter flight with a snow landing (at extra cost, weather permitting). Soaring above the glacier-carved landscapes and touching down on a snowy plateau is an unforgettable way to witness the grandeur of New Zealand’s glacial wilderness.

Accommodation: Te Weheka Retreat, Fox Glacier

Breakfast included

Begin your day with a visit to the serene and photogenic Lake Matheson, a short drive from Fox Glacier. Often called the Mirror Lake, its still, dark waters famously reflect the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman when conditions are just right — a truly breathtaking sight and a photographer’s dream. Take a gentle morning stroll around the lake, soaking in the pristine alpine scenery and the peaceful hush of native forest.

Departing Fox Glacier, your journey continues through the untamed beauty of New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. Travel along the wild Haast River, weaving through gorges and valleys lined with rainforest as you ascend into the majestic Haast Pass. This remote alpine route offers glimpses of cascading waterfalls, moss-covered cliffs, and glacier-fed rivers as it winds its way deep into the UNESCO-listed Mount Aspiring National Park.

Crossing the pass, the landscape softens as you descend into the spectacular Southern Lakes region. Arrive at the enchanting shores of Lake Wānaka, where the glistening waters reflect the peaks of the surrounding mountains — many of which transform into ski fields during the winter months.

Your destination is the charming alpine resort town of Wānaka, a beloved getaway for both locals and visitors. With its tranquil lakefront, boutique cafés, and fresh mountain air, Wānaka offers the perfect blend of relaxation and scenic wonder. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the views or strolling along the lakeside promenade.

Accommodation: Edgewater Resort, Wānaka

Breakfast included

Wake to the stunning tranquillity of Lake Wānaka, with the crisp alpine air and breathtaking mountain views setting the tone for a day of unforgettable exploration. This morning, choose from two distinctly New Zealand experiences that will immerse you in the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Option A: Eco Island Cruise & Guided Nature Walk (included – moderate fitness)

Join a passionate local eco-guide as you depart by boat and cruise across the shimmering waters of Lake Wānaka to a predator-free island sanctuary. Once ashore, a gentle climb through lush native bush — alive with the calls of tūī, korimako, and other native birds — leads you to the island’s hidden treasure: a peaceful lake within the island, complete with its own tiny islands. It’s a surreal and photogenic spot, where birdsong echoes through the forest canopy.

Continue to the summit for a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view over Lake Wānaka and the rugged Southern Alps. This is the perfect place to rest and soak up the natural beauty — and you may even be joined by the rare and curious Buff Weka, a flightless bird extinct from mainland New Zealand since 1920, now thriving here.

Option B: 4WD High Country Farm Safari (included – soft adventure)

For a deeper connection to Wānaka’s rural roots, embark on New Zealand’s most authentic 4WD adventure. Journey through the back roads of a working High Country farm set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, ancient glacial valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. Encounter Red Deer, sheep, and cattle in their natural environment, and gain insight into the lives of the region’s pioneering farming families.

Visit historic sites, explore rustic homesteads, and choose to enjoy optional nature walks through alpine meadows and lakeside forests. This immersive experience beautifully combines scenic wonder, heritage, and authentic rural life in one unforgettable journey.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to relax by the lake, visit one of Wānaka’s artisan cafés, or explore optional activities such as paddleboarding, skydiving, or visiting the quirky Puzzling World (optional, at extra cost).

Accommodation: Edgewater Resort, Wānaka

Breakfast included

Depart the peaceful lakeside town of Wānaka this morning and begin your journey into the heart of the deep south. Your first stop is the iconic and much-photographed Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most charming country pubs. Nestled in the Cardrona Valley, this rustic timber building is a beloved reminder of the area’s gold rush heritage — perfect for a morning coffee and photo stop.

Next, take in sweeping alpine views as you traverse the spectacular Crown Range Road, the highest main road in New Zealand. This scenic route winds through tussock-covered hills and dramatic switchbacks, offering breathtaking vistas over the Southern Alps and the Wakatipu Basin.

Descend into the quaint and picturesque village of Arrowtown, nestled on the banks of the Arrow River. Once a thriving gold mining settlement, today it retains its 19th-century charm with heritage cottages, tree-lined streets, and boutique shops. Take time to stroll through this storybook town and imagine the life of miners who once panned these riverbanks in search of fortune.

Continue south, skirting the base of the majestic Remarkables mountain range and tracing the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu — a glacial lake renowned for its deep blue waters and stunning mountainous backdrop. The road south follows valleys once carved by ancient glaciers, now transformed into lush farmland and sheep-dotted plains.

Your destination is the peaceful township of Te Anau, set on the shores of Lake Te Anau — the largest freshwater lake by volume in the South Island. Surrounded by forest and alpine peaks, this tranquil lakeside town serves as the gateway to the spectacular wilderness of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the legendary Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Luxmore, Te Anau

Breakfast included

Prepare for one of the most extraordinary scenic journeys on Earth. Depart Te Anau early this morning and travel deep into the heart of Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area — a vast wilderness of snow-dusted peaks, mossy forests, and glacial valleys shaped over millennia.

The drive to Milford Sound is a highlight in itself. Wind through the serene Eglinton Valley, marvel at the sheer rock faces of the Cleddau Gorge, and pass through the dramatic Homer Tunnel, emerging into a world of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rainforest. Every turn reveals new grandeur, making this one of the most scenic road trips in the Southern Hemisphere.

Arriving at the stunning Milford Sound, often described by Rudyard Kipling as the "eighth wonder of the world," you’ll board a comfortable vessel for a leisurely cruise through the fiord. Sail beneath the iconic Mitre Peak, past thunderous waterfalls tumbling from cliffs above, and out toward the Tasman Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife — New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks, pods of dusky dolphins, and, with luck, even rare Fiordland crested penguins.

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board as you soak in the majesty of this unforgettable natural wonder, where even mist and rain add a mystical quality to the already breathtaking scenery.

Following the cruise, retrace your journey back through Fiordland’s spectacular landscapes and return to Te Anau before continuing across the fertile Southland farmlands. Then, journey around the shores of the awe-inspiring Lake Wakatipu, framed by the jagged peaks of the Remarkables mountain range, and arrive in the alpine resort town of Queenstown — the adventure capital of New Zealand and your base for the next two nights.

Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Breakfast | Lunch included

Haere rā — farewell and safe travels. After enjoying your final breakfast in the stunning alpine town of Queenstown, you will be transferred to Queenstown Airport for your return flight home.

As you board your flight, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve just experienced — from steaming geothermal valleys and ancient Māori culture to glacier-carved fiords, golden beaches, and soaring mountain peaks. The spirit of Aotearoa — the land of the long white cloud — will no doubt stay with you for years to come.

Should you wish to extend your adventure in New Zealand, whether it's a relaxing coastal retreat, a wine escape, or a visit to the rugged Catlins or remote Stewart Island, we’d be delighted to assist with tailor-made travel arrangements.

Until next time — kia ora and farewell from New Zealand.

Breakfast included