Overview
Itinerary
Your Small Group Discovery tour begins!
Welcome to Aotearoa, Māori for “land of the long white cloud.” Your room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule your flights to arrive by 4:30pm in order to attend this evening's welcome briefing and dinner. (D)
The City of Sails
Start your day with a visit to the All Blacks Experience followed by a sightseeing tour of Auckland. See bustling Queen Street, the city's oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDS OF THE GAME: Immerse yourself into the legacy, culture and people who have made the All Blacks rugby team an important part of the history of New Zealand. You'll experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day and be inspired by the full force of the haka. Hear about past and present legends of the game and enjoy hands-on interactions. You'll quickly understand how deeply this team and sport are intertwined with the heart and heritage of the country.
Home, Hobbits, Home
Depart Auckland and travel through the green pastoral region of Waikato to Hamilton. Take a guided tour of Hamilton Gardens, followed by a delicious high tea. Next, stop at a picturesque farm near Matamata, which was transformed into the Hobbiton movie set of the Lord of the Rings films. Continue to Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders, adventure activities, and a thriving Māori culture. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEM: Step into the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided walking tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. With the mighty Kaimai Mountain ranges towering in the distance, your guide will escort you through the 12-acre movie set, recounting details of how this location was transformed and how movie magic was made here. As you meander down the paths of the enchanted village, see the most iconic sites, the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the world-famous Green Dragon Inn where you'll enjoy a cold beverage. The perfect ending to your Middle-Earth adventure!
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Join your local guide for an enriching journey through Hamilton Gardens. This beautiful parkland is home to carefully curated gardens such as the Italian Renaissance Garden, the Te Parapara Garden, the ancient Egyptian Garden, and more. Journey through the collection of gardens from the surreal to the serene, showcasing diverse cultures and times. Learn the symbolism, design, and stories, then enjoy a delicious high tea in the Summerhouse overlooking the Mansfield Garden.
The Living Earth
This morning starts with a guided tour and visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Next, visit Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, a spectacular showcase of New Zealand's most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity. The afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to relax in a natural hot spring, zipline through the forest, or board a floatplane for flightseeing of this beautiful region. This evening, enjoy an authentic Māori dinner and performance at Te Pā Tū. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CONSERVATION HEROES: Only about 5% of all Kiwi birds hatched in the wild survive to adulthood making them endangered. At the National Kiwi Hatchery, you'll see conservation in action. Known as the national leader in hatching techniques and kiwi chick rearing, you'll see each stage a kiwi chick goes through before being released into the national parks. 100% of your entry goes straight back to the Kiwi hatching program.
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Experience an authentic Māori cultural performance at Te Pā Tū, followed by a delicious Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). Te Pā Tū offers evening experiences that change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) - its towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre. Kai horotai (indigenous canapes) are followed by a torch lit walk to a lavish 4-course Māori fusion feast. You might even be asked to join in a Haka, the traditional war dance of the Māori.
Wild & Woolly
Travel south today through rolling farmlands and pass massive Lake Taupo. Visit the National Army Museum in Waiouru to see its varied collections recalling stories of both wartime and peace. After lunch, continue to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - COOL, CLEAR WATER: During your drive to the end of the north island, stop at Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest freshwater lake. Dramatic landscapes draping crystal-clear waters offer a wonderful backdrop for photos.
New Zealand Treasures
Your day begins with a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria. You'll also spend time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Meaning “the treasure box” in Māori, Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum. Here you can explore the great stories of this country, Māori culture, heritage, and history. Learn about WWI, see a colossal giant squid, enjoy hands-on displays, and experience New Zealand's many landscapes.
Sea Valleys & Vineyards
Today, enjoy a special treat as you sail from Wellington to Picton and enjoy the spectacular Marlborough Sounds on one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Enjoy a photo opportunity amid this extensive network of submerged valleys where dolphins are known to accompany the ferries. On occasion, you might even spot a pod of whales or some penguins swimming by. Continue to Blenheim and enjoy an afternoon wine tasting. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOCAL TASTES: The Marlborough region on New Zealand's south island is known for delicious fresh seafood, diverse landscapes, sheltered waterways, and its world-famous Sauvignon Blanc produced in its valleys of vines. Sit back and relax over a sumptuous tasting of local wines in the sunny town of Blenheim.
Legendary Landmarks & Leviathans
Drive along the coastline where dramatic coastlines and vistas lead you to the coastal town Kaikoura. Enjoy lunch here and take a whale watching cruise. Continue to Christchurch, known for its English heritage. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - GIANTS OF THE DEEP: Cruise on a modern catamaran into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Kaikoura in search of the giant sperm whale in its natural environment. Depending on the season, you may see other whales like blue, orca, humpback, or pilot. Sightings of seals and dolphins are not uncommon either. Your vessel is specially designed to minimize any effect on wildlife with great viewing opportunities from its spacious outdoor decks and air-conditioned indoor cabin fitted with comfortable seating.
Māori Hospitality
A sightseeing tour highlights some of Christchurch's famous landmarks and spectacular gardens. The afternoon is at leisure. This evening, enjoy a cultural dinner tour. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Tonight, dine your way around town during a cultural walking tour. Travel on foot, weaving through laneways, gardens, and hidden squares, as your guide shares stories of the Māori culture and the city's best secrets. Your tour stops at two popular dining establishments, sharing kai (food) and tasting the region's finest beverages. Please note, this tour requires two 15-minute walks along fairly flat terrain.
Catamarans & Cave Dwellers
Fly to Queenstown, then drive to Te Anau, nestled on the edge of a lake and the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Tonight, cruise across Lake Te Anau to the glowworm grotto. (B)
Please Note: This cave tour requires bending, walking, and navigating some stairs to reach the cave.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SPARKLING SPECTACLE: Cruise by catamaran across Lake Te Anau to the western shores, then join a guided tour through the limestone chambers and passages of the cavern. Take a silent boat trip through Glowworm Grotto as you glide quietly beneath the lights of thousands of glowworms suspended from the cave ceiling and watch their glittering display.
Sights & Sound
Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park for a full day excursion to the Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling, as the “eighth wonder of the world.” Return Te Anau late this afternoon. (B/L)
Please Note: The excursion to Milford Sound may happen on Day 12 depending on weather and road conditions today.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Cruise on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water's great depths. Experience dense rainforest, towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Have your cameras ready for marine life such as playful dolphins, seals, and penguins. It will be a day to remember as you experience New Zealand's wild side at its absolute best!
Waterways & Woolly Days
This morning, take a jet boat ride along the Waiau River. Next, sit down with a local farmer to learn about the history, industry, and animal welfare. Enjoy lunch here, then drive to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Tonight, you're free to enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown's many restaurants or cafes and sample some of the regional wines. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Break away from the crowd by epic jet boat ride from the glistening lakefront in Te Anau to the quiet banks of the Waiau River in Fiordland National Park. You'll emerge onto Lake Manapouri to take in unforgettable views, search for trout in crystal-clear water, and listen for rare birds flying over head. Continue to the Farm Shed for a sheep shearing demonstration and conversation with a local farmer. You will learn about the history of the farming industry in New Zealand, the steps taken to produce some of the cleanest food in the world, and what is being done for animal conservation.
Timeless Tales & Traditions
Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand's prettiest towns. Tour some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy, shop for souvenirs, or take a thrilling jetboat ride on the Dart River. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner.
(B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Take a festive cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the 103-year-old TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak High Country Farm, home to sheep, deer, and Scottish Highland cattle. Relax in the unique rural setting at Colonel's Homestead Restaurant, where your meal features succulent barbecued meats, vegetables, salads, mouthwatering desserts, and New Zealand cheeses. After dinner, an entertaining demonstration provides a glimpse of life in the high country. On the magical cruise home, enjoy a fun sing-along or bask in the fresh night air on the moonlit decks as you watch the lights of Queenstown draw near.
Haere Ra (Māori for “Until Next Time”)
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 24 guests, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours.
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides with complimentary headsets to hear every word, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach.
- 13 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners
- Auckland: Pullman Auckland (Moderate Deluxe):
A positive departure from the usual formula in hotel accommodation, Pullman Auckland's sleek interiors emit a warm and friendly vibe, creating an intimate atmosphere whether in the lobby lounge, by the heated pool, while sampling fare at Tapestry Dining or listening to live music at the Omni Bar. - Rotorua: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside (Superior First-Class):
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views. The central location makes for easy access to Rotorua's cafes, restaurants, and many popular local attractions. Dry cleaning, as well as coin-operated self-service laundry, is available. - Wellington: Rydges Wellington (Superior First-Class): The Rydges Wellington is in close proximity to Wellington's city center and harbor. The hotel blends modern amenities with timeless comfort. Guests can dine at the restaurant/bar, or maintain their workout regime at the lap pool, spa, sauna and cardio room (guest access to offsite gym). Guests can also stay connected with work or home with Wi-Fi access from anywhere in the hotel.
- Christchurch: Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square (Superior Tourist-Class): The Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square is a landmark hotel featuring 154 contemporary rooms. The hotel is in the heart of the city only moments to main attractions like Cathedral Square and Hagley Park.
- Te Anau: Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas (First-Class): Surrounded by extensive, colorful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, Distinction Te Anau offers 112 comfortable and spacious guestrooms. The hotel features a spa, sauna, outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Queenstown: Ramada Queenstown Central (First-Class): The Ramada Queenstown Central is ideally positioned in the heart of Queenstown with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables Mountain Range, and Walter Peak. The hotel features a fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, laundry services, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Maximum enjoyment of the tour requires a moderate level of fitness.
- Some crouching and bending is required at the entrance to the Te Anau glowworm cave and steps are involved. Photography and filming is not permitted in the caves.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of New Zealand through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of New Zealand. Read more
Globus' selection of accommodation in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
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Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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