Essence of New Zealand

• Step back in time to a golden era of public transport; enjoying drinks and canapes aboard a heritage tram while taking in the city sights of Christchurch.

• This afternoon, you may during the summer months, board a MAC boat and discover icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Alternatively, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or enjoy a stargazing session with an astronomer.

• Discover New Zealand's highest peak, in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders. Arrive in Dunedin late afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner. Stay: Distinction Dunedin Hotel (B/D)

• Visit Olveston Historic Home, the heritage home of a wealthy merchant family built in the early 1900s. Or discover the enchanting Larnach Castle, nestled on the stunning Otago Peninsula. Alternatively, those who enjoy a beer may choose to visit Speight's Brewery for a tasting.

• Explore an underground network of limestone caves, magically lit by thousands of glow worms. Alternatively, set off on an inspiring wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound/Patea; or take an exciting jet boat ride along the Upper Waiau River to get the heart pumping.

• Cruise the pristine Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.

• Movie buffs may like to visit key filming locations from The Lord of the Rings trilogy, on a Safari of the Scenes tour. Alternatively, set out on a Skippers Canyon 4WD adventure tour following the Shotover River Valley. Others may prefer a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or a cellar door tour through the wineries of the Central Otago wine region.
• On a Freedom of Choice Dining evening perhaps cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamboat for a BBQ Dinner at the Walter Peak High Country Farm. Alternatively, enjoy one of the world's most lauded burgers at Fergburger, experience an array of premium local produce at Finz Restaurant, dine amid the stylish surrounds of the Elements Restaurant, or take a ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola up Bob's Peak to Stratosfare Restaurant and enjoy spectacular views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and of course, Queenstown.

Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city. (B)

• Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere Region.

• Board New Zealand's famous TranzAlpine train to experience one of the world's greatest rail journeys.

• Indulge in the finest flavours as you savour a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. The well-paired fusion of quality produce and multi-ethnic influences have helped shape New Zealand's food and wine culture as among the best in the world.

• Embark on a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre; enjoy the sheer beauty of Marlborough Sounds during a Seafood Odyssea Cruise; or choose to visit some of the region's best wineries for countryside wine tastings.

• Cruise across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry and enjoy the stunning waters of Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds.

• Discover the city of Napier and enjoy a guided tour of this beautiful Art Deco town, rebuilt in the style of that era after the devastating Hawkes Bay earthquake in 1931. Explore the city's streets and learn about the iconic and unique features of Art Deco design and the history behind each building. Marvel at the intricate detailing, vibrant colours and fascinating stories of this town frozen in time.

• Tonight, enjoy an indulgent traditional Maori feast and performance of Haka, song and storytelling at Te Pa Tu (Maori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a Haka powhiri (cultural welcome) and then treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapes, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

• Perhaps enjoy a sheep show at the Agrodome, followed by a visit to Te Puia Thermal Reserve; visit Wai-O-Tapu; or experience Middle-earth during a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.

• Take a cruise on Waitemata Harbour; enjoy a unique All Blacks experience; visit Auckland Zoo to discover the native flora and fauna of New Zealand; experience and journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Weta Workshop; or escape the bustle of the city on a tour to Auckland's wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest.

Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Parry Kauri Park to view the large kauri trees and soak up the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands. Stay Two Nights: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (B)

• Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.

After breakfast, travel to Auckland where your New Zealand adventure concludes. We say goodbye before we transfer you to the airport for your flight. (B)