Cities And Seas Tour (Northbound)

Welcome to Ōtautahi Christchurch, the gateway to South Island exploration, beautifully blends cutting-edge innovation with 19th-century Anglican Gothic Revival architecture. While the city is often remembered for the 2011 earthquake, today it stands as a vibrant, multicultural hub with a strong sense of renewal and creativity.

After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. Enjoy a guided walking tour with a tour guide or take the perfect opportunity to jump aboard hop-on hop-off tram. With a free afternoon, explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars in Riverside Market.

Join your fellow travellers and tour director this evening for a welcome reception.

Get ready to board Coastal Pacific train for the Scenic Plus experience

Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat—or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.

After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.

This morning you will board Coastal Pacific train once again to travel to Picton.

Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!

Enjoy a wine tour and lunch at Allan Scott winery after you check in to the hotel.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Omaka Aviation Museum tour, were you'll see rare WW1 and WW2 aircraft through imaginative displays, offering a world-class experience that brings aviation history and its heroes to life.

After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, you will have free time to relax and enjoy stunning scenery before rejoining the group for dinner at the accommodation. .5 star accommodation, Marlborough

This morning you will enjoy an exclusive guided tour of the Arapawa pāua pearl farm, through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating pāua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested pāua - an unforgettable flavour of the ocean.

In the afternoon you will be making your way to Wellington, aboard Interislander ferry in the comfort of Interislander Premium Lounge.

The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!

Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street's cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.

You won't get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more… the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.

Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.

Travelling via Ohakune:

Your day begins with an elevated experience travelling on the Northern Explorer train, waving goodbye to windy Wellington, as you settle into your comfortable seat. Don't get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend. Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view from the train.

A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque views as you arrive to Ohakune.

Once you arrive to Ohakune, you will be treated to a tour of the area and Old Coach road, followed by dinner at the hotel.

If staying in Tongariro National Park:

Enjoy the gentle rhythm of Taumarunui as you spend a few unhurried hours exploring this welcoming riverside town. Your journey continues with guided visits to two of Taumarunui's treasured Forgotten World gardens, each rich with stories of the land.

Settle in for a full home-cooked lunch at Omaka Lodge, where warm hospitality awaits. The lodge's gardens, recently recognised as a garden of national significance, provide a beautiful place to pause and connect with the landscape.

After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.

If staying in Rotorua:

Experience the magical Redwoods Treewalk, a series of suspension bridges through towering Californian redwoods. In the evening, be transported to another world with the summer harvest experience at Te Pā Tū, an unforgettable fusion of Māori culture, seasonal cuisine, and storytelling under the stars.

If travelling via Ohakune:

Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field and to see the Sky Waka. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending.

Rejoin the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus for a day of rail travel through the heart of the North Island, passing the volcanic plateau and the iconic Raurimu Spiral. Disembark in Hamilton and have the evening to yourself. Please Note: No dinner is included this evening.

If travelling via Rotorua:

Travel by coach through the rolling hills of the Waikato region and arrive in Hamilton. Later, journey west to the charming surf town of Raglan for a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, complete with classic Kiwi fish and chips as you take in the coastal views.

If travelling via Ohakune:

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into Māori herbal medicinal practices, the unique Rongoā Rākau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand's “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds!

In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.

If travelling via Rotorua:

Your itinerary is the same, however tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River.

Begin with a visit to the elegant Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand's only commercial tea plantation. Enjoy a guided tour and traditional tea tasting, followed by a Signature high tea lunch surrounded by serene views of the estate.

In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel.

Not ready to leave Auckland? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.