Holiday In Paradise
Get away from the TV screen and head over to a real-life movie land! There is a reason why this dream destination was the main shooting location for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Discover its majestic landscapes, soaring mountains, rolling vineyards, and sparkling glaciers that make New Zealand a surreal, magical wonderland!
Best Time to Travel: The summer months from December to March are the ideal time to visit New Zealand, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C.
Average Temperatures
Upon arrival in Christchurch, proceed to your hotel from the airport. Christchurch is the second-largest city in New Zealand, sprawling across the Canterbury Plains en route to the Southern Alps. Beautiful heritage trams and punting tours are the primary attractions here.
Set off on exciting punting along the Avon River on board handcrafted flat-bottom boats poled by skilled punters adorned in traditional Edwardian attire. Arrive at the Antigua Boatshed by taxi and hire a gondolier to punt you and your companions along the Botanical Gardens. After a pleasant punting ride along the Avon River, hop on a tram at the punt stop and enjoy a fun joyride touring across Christchurch city centre.
After enjoying the ride along Avon River and the tram across Christchurch, it’s time to head back to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Destination Nugget: The Southern Alps is home to all of New Zealand’s peaks higher than 3,000 meters.
Begin your day with a domestic flight to Queenstown, known as the world’s adventure capital. Upon arrival, enjoy a plethora of thrilling activities that cater to every adventurer’s desire:
Choose your favourite activities and create your unforgettable adventure in this breathtaking destination!
Destination Nugget: The Māori name for Queenstown is “Tahuna,” which translates to “Shallow Bay.” This vibrant town is not only famous for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich cultural heritage and variety of outdoor experiences.
After breakfast, set out on a trip to Milford Sound in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Expect a long drive from Queenstown, which makes it a good idea to book a coach tour, and kick back to enjoy the scenic drive. Head to Te Anau along Lake Wakatipu, enter Fjordland National Park, and traverse through beech forests, passing majestic mountains en route. Drive through the Homer Tunnel to catch the catamaran for your cruise along Milford Sound.
The two-hour Milford Sound cruise is one of the longer cruises available and provides ample photo ops. Milford Sound boasts crystal-clear rivers and streams, spectacular waterfalls, incredibly deep ice-carved fjords, and abundant exotic wildlife. Cruise past Mitre Peak, the world’s highest mountain that rises vertically straight out of the sea.
Once your cruise is complete, head back to your hotel in Queenstown to spend the night.
Destination Nugget: Fjordland National Park is adjacent to the Tasman Sea, which is commonly known as “The Ditch.”
Post-breakfast, head out for the Safari of the Rings. Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring views of the mountain and forest along Lake Wakatipu’s shores, the Paradise Valley, and Glenorchy. You will also get a firsthand glimpse of the filming locations for the Ithilien Camp, Lothlorien, Isengard, Fangorn Forest, and the Seat of Seeing Battle of Amon Hen.
In the afternoon, take the Skyline Scenic Gondola ride followed by two thrilling Luge rides. After enjoying the excitement of the day, return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Queenstown.
After breakfast, depart Queenstown for the Glacier Region, travelling past Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. Turn into Haast Pass and the Westland National Park, a World Heritage Site. Continue north towards Franz Josef Glacier.
Later in the day, proceed for an evening show at the renowned Alpine Cinema. Experience a truly immersive cinematic experience with a giant 13-meter wide, curved screen and 7.1 surround sound, ensuring every seat offers a great view.
Stay overnight at Franz Josef Glacier.
Destination Nugget: With a descent starting at around 3,000 meters above sea level and extending down 9 km, Franz Josef Glacier is one of the steepest glaciers in the country.
Spend the day exploring the incredible Glacier Region. Experience these ancient ice structures up close through a guided heli-hike on the glacier’s surface or enjoy a pleasant scenic flight for a bird’s eye view. You also have the option to relax in the soothing Hot Pools of the Glacier.
Stay overnight at Franz Josef Glacier.
Destination Nugget: The Hot Pools are fed by water that flows from the glacier, creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Catch your bus to Greymouth, where you will board the world-renowned TranzAlpine train to Christchurch. Travel through lush beech forests, pass by the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass, and cross the breathtaking Southern Alps. As you traverse across the fertile Canterbury Plains, you’ll arrive in Christchurch.
Stay overnight in Christchurch.
Destination Nugget: The TranzAlpine train covers a distance of 223 kilometres each way in just under 5 hours, offering one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
Board your domestic flight from Christchurch to Rotorua and proceed to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon, visit the Agrodome for a farm show, showcasing cow milking, sheepdog demonstrations, and an introduction to the farm’s sheep. Spend the evening relaxing in the serene atmosphere of the Lake Spa Retreat at the Polynesian Spa.
Stay overnight in Rotorua.
Journey south across the fertile Waikato region and arrive at Waitomo. Go on a guided tour of the world-renowned Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves, which includes an underground boat ride through the cavern, where you will see millions of glow-worms illuminating the ceiling.
After your Waitomo adventure, continue on to Auckland to spend the night.
Destination Nugget: The glow in the Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves comes from a special pigment produced by the worms, which helps them attract prey.
After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of Auckland’s city highlights. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure—go shopping, visit parks and cinemas, stroll around the central city, or attend cultural events.
Stay overnight in Auckland.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to Auckland Airport for your flight back home.
Experiences