Compare Trails of New Zealand by Exodus Travels vs Highlights of New Zealand (non-driving) by Audley Travel

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

The day is free to relax and recover from the flight. If you’re arriving into Auckland Airport today, you can arrange a free arrival (shared shuttle) transfer from the airport to the hotel – see the Joining Instructions for more information. Auckland is a beautiful city and worthy of time to explore. The nearby Viaduct restaurants are an ideal means of overcoming the last of the jetlag. If you’re feeling lucky, visit the SkyCity casino and entertainment tower for one of those lunches you just don’t forget. Please meet at the start hotel at 6pm for a full briefing with your leader. Accommodation: Copthorne Auckland City Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Visit Rangitoto Island

Auckland is the City of Sails, so what better way to start your trip than to cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to beautiful Rangitoto Island? At 600 years’ old, it is actually the youngest volcano in New Zealand. The island has undergone a significant restoration programme and is entirely pest-free, which encourages the native flora and fauna to thrive. We walk through lava fields and forests to the island summit (850ft/259m) for stunning panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. Please note: Occasionally, access is temporarily and unexpectedly denied to various islands off the Auckland coast including Rangitoto due to cultural considerations. In this case, we respect the local Māori wishes and try to visit an alternative island if possible. Accommodation: Copthorne Auckland City Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 To Rotorua

Leaving the city, we head south to Rotorua (approximately 3hr 30min drive). On arrival, we stretch our legs with a hike around a redwood forest followed by an afternoon at leisure in town or an optional hike at Blue Lake. The evening highlight is a visit to a marae (ceremonial ground). Our Māori hosts welcome us in their traditional manner before entertaining us with a concert and hangi (traditional meal). Accommodation: Jet Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 To Tongariro National Park

We explore one of the most colourful thermal areas in New Zealand with boiling mud pools, hot streams and silica terraces. The natural wonders that first attracted the Māori in the 14th century, and later the Europeans, still draw large numbers of tourists every year. Rotorua is a unique natural wonder and a must-see destination. Leaving Rotorua, we drive south (approximately three hours) to Tongariro National Park. On the way, we visit the steaming Wai-O-Tapu geothermal valley and impressive Huka Falls. Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Free day in Tongariro National Park; option to hike Tongariro Crossing and other activities

We wake up in the heart of Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand and a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the important Māori cultural and spiritual associations plus its outstanding volcanic features. If you’re physically fit and well equipped, there is the option of walking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: one of the greatest one-day walks in New Zealand. Provided the weather is kind, the rugged volcanic desert, craters and glacial valleys combine with incredible views to make this a day to remember. The crossing should not be underestimated and there are several steep sections where the loose surface can make it tough going, so come well-prepared. The crossing can take seven to eight hours depending on walking ability. There is a return shuttle service – 50 New Zealand dollars (US$31) per person – from your hotel to the start and finish of the crossing. Your leader provides you with information about the walk and can advise you on the fitness and equipment required. If you are intending to do the crossing, please bring sturdy walking shoes/boots, a suitable backpack, wind- and waterproof jacket and a warm hat. Distance: 12mi (19.4km); ascent: 2,510ft (765m); descent: 3,691ft (1,125m); total time: approximately seven to eight hours Alternatively, there are several other options available to experience the wonders of this unique environment. These include the Taranaki Falls walk, one of the best short walks in the park. This easy loop takes in a variety of volcanic landforms, forest and native shrubland along with excellent volcano and waterfall views. Distance: 3.7mi (6km); ascent: 377ft (115m); descent: 377ft (115m); total time: approximately 2hr 30min Other options include a visit to the park conservation centre, a trip up Mount Ruapehu on the Sky Waka gondola with a short walk to the viewing platform, a visit to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools or a unique rafting experience including the opportunity to help with conservation efforts for an endangered native duck. Your leader will discuss the options and additional costs for the day. Based on the weather and interest of the group, your leader can join the majority of the group in their chosen activity. Where external transfers or the services of an external provider are required, then additional costs are payable on the day. Please also see the Optional Excursions section of the Trip Notes for further details. Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 To Wellington

Relax following yesterday’s free day of exploring Tongariro National Park as we drive (approximately five hours) south to Wellington. Continue across the Rangitikei and Manawatu Plains and down the Kapiti Coast to Wellington. On Wellington waterfront is Te Papa, the NZ National Museum, which we can explore in the afternoon along with the beautiful botanic gardens and cable car and enjoy the exciting nightlife of the capital city. Accommodation: The Bay Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 Ferry across Cook Strait to Marlborough; drive to Abel Tasman National Park

After an early breakfast, we board the ferry and leave the North Island as we cross the Cook Strait, passing the Marlborough Sounds with 932mi (1,500km) of beautiful coastline. From Picton, we have a 1hr 30min drive to Nelson where we can take time out to explore the city and a chance to stretch our legs with a short walk to the geographical centre of New Zealand. After, we drive to the small town of Motueka (approximately one hour) on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, home to idyllic gold-sand beaches and forests. Accommodation: Avalon Manor Motel (or similar)

Day 8 Half-day coastal walk; boat to Motueka

We have a 25-minute transfer to the village of Marahau, where a morning coastal walk takes us through beautiful beaches and coastal vegetation. The path is well maintained and the walk takes approximately three to four hours. We meet our sailing boat at Anchorage Bay, providing our return to Marahau and time to relax and dine out in Motueka. (Depending on tides, sometimes the sailing trip is completed first). Please note, today your leader has a guide-free day. Instead, you are accompanied by a local guide on the coastal walk who has expert local knowledge. Return transfers from Motueka are provided. Accommodation: Avalon Manor Motel (or similar)

Day 9 To Buller River; sunset walk at Punakaiki

Our departure from Abel Tasman National Park is followed by a scenic drive down the mighty Buller River. After a short stop at Cape Foulwind to see the seal colony, we stop at Punakaiki, home of the famous Pancake Rocks, to watch the setting sun (drive time: approximately five hours). If the tide is up, the ground can physically shake and water spurts from the blowholes and fissures that dot the coastline. Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort (or similar)

Day 10 To Fox Glacier, passing Okarito en route

Passing through areas of lush forests, we continue south down the beautiful west coast. We drive onto the small lagoon-side village of Okarito, home of the rare kotuku (white heron). On offer here is optional kayaking where we float in on the incoming tide and explore the bush-clad waterways seeking out the abundant bird life here. Those looking to stretch their legs can hike to the nearby trig station (approximately 1hr 30min) for spectacular views over the Southern Alps. Later, we continue the short drive through to Fox township. Depending on time, you may have an opportunity to hike to the lookout for the Franz Josef Glacier. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (or similar)

Day 11 Walk to Fox Glacier; continue to Wanaka

After breakfast, we backtrack to the township of Franz Josef. From here, we go for a walk to the lookout point for the glacier (if not completed the day before). After, we drive on and stroll around the reflective Lake Matheson, a photographer’s dream. We then continue south along bush-clad roads and past the dramatic coastline with its wild windswept beaches to the settlement of Haast. Turning inland, we climb over Haast Pass, the southernmost crossing of the Southern Alps, which forms the boundary between Westland and Otago. From here, the tussock lands of the eastern slopes merge with beech forests. We travel through to Wanaka, home for the next two nights. Lake Matheson Loop: Distance: 1.6mi (2.6km); ascent: 138ft (42m); descent: 138ft (42m); total time: approximately 1hr 30min Fox Glacier Valley Walkway: Distance: 1.6mi (2.6km); ascent: 223ft (68m); descent: 226ft (69m); total time: approximately one hour Accommodation: Wanaka Hotel (or similar)

Day 12 Jetboat in Matukituki

In the morning, we head into Mount Aspiring National Park for an exciting jetboat ride along the braided rivers leading into the park. Jetboating was invented in NZ as a means to negotiate the shallow braided rivers that we use to access a track leading to a hike into the cirque surrounded by huge mountain walls. Back at our coach, we eat our picnic lunch before driving onto our three-hour hike at beautiful Diamond Lake, which provides stunning views of the river delta and the landscape. Matukituki Valley: Distance: 1.3mi (2.2km); ascent: 95ft (29m); descent: 95ft (29m); total time: one hour Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Circuit: Distance: 4.4mi (7.1km); ascent: 1,434ft (437m); descent: 1,417ft (432m); total time: approximately two to three hours Accommodation: Wanaka Hotel (or similar)

Day 13 Transfer to Milford Sound and board overnight boat

From Wanaka, we depart early heading for Te Anau and then into Eglington Valley, enjoying a series of short walks in the spectacular Milford region and then into Milford Sound itself where we join our floating accommodation for the night. The Milford Mariner boat, which has two-bed cabins with private bathrooms, allows us to stay overnight amid dolphins and mighty peaks towering above the fjord. Walk profile: Various short walk options on Milford Road of up to one hour depending on group fitness, weather and time Accommodation: Milford Mariner

Day 14 Cruise inner sound; drive to Queenstown

After an early breakfast, we cruise the inner sound again searching for dolphins and seals before disembarking and retracing our tracks to The Divide and the start of the Routeburn Track. Here we take a three-hour walk to Key Summit for spectacular views. After this hike, we drive via Te Anau (approximately four hours) onto Queenstown, where we stay for the next two nights. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Day 15 Free day in Queenstown

Today is free to enjoy the scenic delights of this world-famous destination! There are numerous activities on offer, which your leader can advise about locally. Or you may just prefer to spend the day shopping or relaxing. Today your leader has a guide-free day but they can advise on how best to spend your free day in Queenstown. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Day 16 Transfer to Mount Cook National Park; trek in Hooker Valley

Travel through the barren Kawarau Gorge where large amounts of gold were dredged at the turn of the century. Drive over Lindis Pass to the tussock-covered plains of the Mackenzie Basin and into Mount Cook National Park (approximately four hours). Beneath the highest peak in NZ, we walk into Hooker Valley, which has crashing glaciers and glacial lakes. By early evening, we reach our accommodation and watch the spectacular view from the warmth of the restaurant. Accommodation: Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge/Aoraki Court Motel (or similar)

Day 17 Drive to Christchurch via Canterbury Plains

After breakfast, we drive to Christchurch via the Canterbury Plains. After the devastating earthquakes of 2010/11, Christchurch is undergoing a major rebuild, unrivalled in the world. The afternoon is free for you to explore this city, beautiful gardens and Hagley Park followed by an optional final group dinner. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold Christchurch (or similar)

Day 18 End Christchurch

The trip finishes after breakfast and checkout from the hotel. A free departure transfer by taxi from the hotel to Christchurch Airport is included but it must be booked at least one month before departure.

Day 1 : International outbound flight

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Auckland.

Day 2 : International outbound flight

On-board your international outbound flight to Auckland.

Day 3 : Auckland

On arrival in Auckland you will be transferred to your luxury hotel in the centre of town where you can relax after your flights or begin exploring the area as you please. We will furnish you with a list of recommended restaurants before you travel.

Day 4 : Auckland

Today is at leisure in Auckland for you to recover from your flight and settle into the relaxed pace of life here in New Zealand. Why not go for a stroll along the waterfront or adventure up the Sky Tower to see the spectacular views of the city and bay.

Day 5 : Auckland

Today you will enjoy a wine tour of the renowned Waiheke Island in Auckland Harbour. After crossing over by ferry in the morning, you will tour a number of the island's vineyards and wineries. You'll learn all about the wine produced in the region and of course be treated to some tastings too.

Day 6 : Rotorua

Today you will depart Auckland by coach and head towards Rotorua. En route, you'll stop and visit the fascinating Waitomo Caves for a boat ride through the spectacular caverns that are illuminated by thousands of glow worms. After this you will visit Hobbiton and explore the beautiful farm which was transformed into the Shire for the Lord of the Rings movies. After your Hobbiton tour you will be taken to Rotorua, you will arrive in the early evening, in time to check in to your hotel and go for dinner.

Day 7 : Rotorua

Today, you'll be able to enjoy all of Rotorua's top attractions at your leisure, from the breathtaking geysers and mud pools of the Te Puia Cultural and Geothermal Center, to the Skyline gondola, to the soothing natural blessing of the Polynesian Spa pools. Bird and reptile fans may wish to visit Rainbow Springs, home to New Zealand's oldest Kiwi conservation center.

Day 8 : Wellington

This morning you'll fly on to Wellington, New Zealand's capital. A shuttle bus will take you to the airport. On arrival in Wellington either take the bus or a taxi to your hotel, both are very easy to do. After checking into your hotel in Wellington, we recommend heading across the street to Te Papa, the national museum of New Zealand which offers a wealth of information on the country's natural, Maori, and European history.Head to Cuba Street for dinner tonight, there are lots of lovely restaurants here to choose from.

Day 9 : Blenheim

Heading to the South Island today you will take a short taxi ride to the ferry terminal for your ferry to Picton in the surreal Marlborough Sounds. Upon arrival, disembark the ferry and meet your private transfer to Blenheim in the heart of New Zealand's winelands. You'll then have the afternoon at leisure to begin exploring or simply relax and enjoy your surroundings. There are several wineries within walking distance and the Vines Village is just across the road from your hotel with various cafes and souvenir shops, well worth a look.

Day 10 : Blenheim

New Zealand's Blenheim and Marlborough regions are highly renowned for their wine production. Grown on rich volcanic soil, the Sauvignon Blanc made here is considered some of the best in the world. Spend today enjoying a gourmet tour of the area's best wineries, learning of the area's history and development of its wine production.

Day 11 : Hanmer Springs

After a leisurely morning, you will be transferred back to the train station to meet your bus to Hanmer Springs, a pretty Alpine village just inland from Kaikoura. This is a beautiful journey, travelling along the Lewis Pass.When you arrive in Hanmer, go for a walk and admire the scenery, then take a dip in the natural Hot Springs before dinner.

Day 12 : Christchurch

This morning, catch your bus to the centre of Christchurch, then take a taxi to your hotel, drop your bags and explore the garden city. We recommend punting on the River Avon and going to see the 'container city' shopping mall, part of the Christchurch Earthquake rebuild.Perhaps have dinner on the Tramway restaurant tonight, a great way to see the city whilst eating some delicious New Zealand Cuisine as the tram trundles around. This does need to be booked in advance though so please speak to your specialist if you are interested.

Day 13 : Christchurch

Today you will head out on a full day trip to Arthur's Pass National Park. This dramatic mountainous area was one of main filming locations of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Be sure to keep an eye out for the playful Kea bird, New Zealand's parrot. After your train journey up to Arthur's Pass you will enjoy a short walk in the high country and lunch at a high country hotel before being driven along the Arthur's Pass Road to see some natural sights and will be dropped back at your accommodation this evening.

Day 14 : Queenstown

After a leisurely morning in Christchurch, take a taxi to the airport for your flight to Queenstown. After settling into your hotel in the centre of town, you will have the rest of the day at leisure to explore or relax as you please. Perhaps take the gondola up Bob's Peak to see the magnificent views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.

Day 15 : Queenstown

Today you will head out on a Dart River Wilderness Safari which includes an exhilarating jet boat ride followed by a short guided walk and scenic 4WD trip through the wilderness. You'll learn about the local flora and fauna as well as local Maori and colonial history before heading back to Queenstown.

Day 16 : Manapouri

Today you will be collected and driven to Manapouri, where you will meet your tour to doubtful Sound. After a boat journey across Lake Manapouri, you'll meet another coach which will take you across Wilmot Pass to Doubtful Sound itself, here you will board the Fiordland Navigator and spend a magical night in one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.

Day 17 : Queenstown

After completing your cruise today you'll and head back across Wilmot Pass and Lake Manapouri to Queenstown. Spend this evening relaxing and looking back over the wonderful experience of the last few weeks.

Day 18 : Queenstown

Your very last day in Queenstown, the day is at leisure for you to do as you wish, perhaps join a tour; very easy to do if you visit the Queenstown i-Site; or perhaps go walking for the day.This evening you'll board the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamship, and cruise across the lake to Walter Peak farm where you'll enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner and learn about farm life.

Day 19 : International return flight

This morning you will be dropped off at the airport for your onward flights.

Day 20 : International return flight

Arrive home today to complete your journey.