18 Day Inspiring New Zealand
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
These tours allow you to experience the destination with a comfortable sized group. You will travel with between a maximum of 26-30 other guests depending on your selected tour. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as a wide range of included sightseeing, comfortable accommodation and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
✓ Incredible sightseeing including City tours of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin, walking tour of historic Russell, Maori Cultural evening, Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, explore Queenstown & charming Arrowtown
✓ Cruise the Bay of Islands’ ‘Hole in the Rock’
✓ Travel on board the iconic Coastal Pacific & TranzAlpine rail journeys
✓ Cruise between Wellington and Picton on the Interislander scenic ferry
✓ Cruise Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction
✓ 17 nights in central 3 & 4 star accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
✓ Fully escorted by a professional tour guide
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand. On arrival in Auckland please make your own way to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore this beautiful harbourside city.
This evening at 6.00pm, meet your guide and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.
After breakfast enjoy a two hour tour of Auckland. Visit a variety of Auckland’s known landmarks and neighbourhoods such as Auckland Domaine, Parnell Village, Bastion Point & the Waterfront.
Following your tour commence the journey North to the beautiful Bay of Islands. A stop along the way to stretch your legs and have some lunch (not included) at Whangharei before continuing to Paihia.
After checking into your hotel the remainder of the day is free to explore this seaside town.
This morning you'll be taken to Paihia Wharf for an exciting day cruise. The cruise includes a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock with a stopover on one of the beautiful islands.
Upon your return, you'll have the opportunity to explore Russel, the first capital of New Zealand, during a guided walking tour led by your knowledgeable guide.
As part of your morning cruise ticket, you'll also receive a free ferry ticket to return to Paihia. From there, you can take a leisurely walk back to your hotel.
This morning, bid farewell to the Bay of Islands as we embark on a journey back to Auckland, passing through the awe-inspiring Waipoua Kauri Forest. Embark on a stroll to see Tane Mahuta, a majestic living Kauri tree and one of the largest of its kind. Get ready to witness the grandeur of this remarkable natural wonder.
Continue back to Auckland where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
After breakfast, travel south to Rotorua. We will stop along the way in Hamilton to explore the Hamilton Gardens. You will have free time to explore this captivating and diverse horticultural paradise. What makes Hamilton Gardens truly special is its thematic garden collections, each representing different civilizations, historical periods, and cultures from around the world. Visitors can explore a variety of beautifully landscaped areas, each carefully designed to transport them to different eras and places in time.
On arrival in Rotorua time at leisure to relax. In the late afternoon you will be transferred to Te Puia Thermal Reserve to experience a Maori Cultural evening at Te Puia with buffet dinner followed by a cultural performance at the beautifully carved meeting house. The evening concludes with a walk to the Thermal Valley where hot chocolate will be served. On completion you will be returned to the hotel by Te Puia.
Following breakfast, get ready for an enriching sightseeing tour of Rotorua and its surrounding areas, with a duration of approximately 5 hours.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit several fascinating locations, including the Government Gardens and the picturesque lakefront. Additionally, you'll pass through the charming Ohinemutu Village, experiencing its unique cultural atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the tour includes admission to Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, located just a short 15-minute drive from central Rotorua. Here, you'll step into a realm where ancient myths and legends come alive, and witness the captivating spectacle of the earth's boiling waters, healing mud, and steam that vanishes into the sky.
Take a self-guided walk (or join a guided tour - additional cost paid locally) through this remarkable geothermal reserve. Along the way, you'll encounter erupting waters, an active mud volcano, fascinating land coral formations, and a hot waterfall. The entire experience typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders of this unique geothermal wonderland.
The remainder of the day is free to relax or why not join an optional activity
The Polynesian Spa is nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua. Embrace nature’s sanctuary overlooking the lake and relax and unwind in the five mineral hot pools that nourish the skin and relieve tired muscles. Towels and lockers are provided. The Spa is open until 23.00hrs daily. Your allocated time will be confirmed whilst on tour. We aim for a late afternoon time slot.
This morning travel to Wellington with scenic stops, including Huka Falls. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and Huka Falls' thunderous cascade. Discover New Zealand's beauty on this memorable journey.
On arrival in Wellington, the evening is free to explore the capital's many restaurants.
After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Wellington, which includes a stop at Mt Victoria for stunning views. You'll also drive past iconic landmarks like the Beehive and Parliament, and visit the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral. Included in your tour is a visit to the renowned Te Papa Museum, offering a fascinating insight into New Zealand's culture and history.
Additionally, enjoy a one-way cable car ride and visit the Tramway Museum and Botanical Gardens, immersing yourself in the city's natural beauty and transportation heritage. A guided walking tour of the city centre will provide you with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the city's vibrant character.
The afternoon grants you the freedom to explore Wellington at your own pace or indulge in some retail therapy, discovering the city's charm and attractions as you wish.
This morning, you'll be taken to the ferry terminal for your exciting journey to the South Island. Enjoy a picturesque ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Upon reaching Picton, you will board the Coastal Pacific train. Your luggage will be smoothly transferred to the train by the ferry staff, ensuring a seamless travel experience for you. Relish in the beauty of the Coastal Pacific Train Journey as you traverse from Picton to Christchurch, witnessing some of the South Island's most stunning scenery along the way.
Upon arrival in Christchurch, you'll be warmly welcomed by your South Island driver, who will be ready to transfer you comfortably to your hotel.
Today's journey will take you to the Edenborough of the South, passing through the charming historic Victorian town of Oamaru and the intriguing Moeraki Boulders (subject to tide conditions).
As part of the experience, you'll have the privilege of visiting the Waitaki Museum & Archive. The museum presents captivating narratives about the natural and cultural history of the Waitaki District.
On arrival in Dunedin take a brief orientation tour of the city before checking into your hotel.
Following breakfast, embark on an exciting sightseeing tour of the city. First stop on your tour, visit the Olveston Historic Home. This magnificent residence, nestled in one of New Zealand's Gardens of National Significance, exudes elegance in its Jacobean style architecture. Built in the early 1900s, Olveston boasts grace and grandeur, adorned with exquisite decorative details throughout its 35 rooms.
During a one-hour guided tour of this opulently furnished home, you'll be transported back to the glorious Age of the Edwardians, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle long gone and impossible to recreate. Olveston stands as a remarkable time capsule, preserving the splendour of a bygone era.
Your city tour will also explore key landmarks such as the Railway station, Otago University, the iconic Octagon, and the renowned Baldwin Street, known for being the world's steepest street.
The remainder of the day is at leisure, though we recommned you continue your touring of Dunedin with one of the following optional tours (these tours operate simultaneously so only one choice may be selected);
With its exciting, sometimes scandalous, sometimes tragic history, its magnificent carved ceilings, New Zealand antiques and breathtaking views, Larnach Castle offers you a vision of the past and present. Today, the Castle is the home of the Barker family, who have spent more than thirty nine years lovingly restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 35 acres of gardens and grounds. Entry to Castle including the tower, cafe in the ballroom, gift shop, Castle gardens, grounds, historic stable and Castle outbuildings.
Experience a unique one hour guided wildlife adventure, travelling on an all-terrain Argo 8 wheel drive. Take an exhilarating ride across the Reid family farm to the breeding habitat of Yellow-eyed Penguins, Blue penguins and New Zealand Fur Seals. Enjoy spectacular coastal views and up close and personal encounters with nature. Located at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, a 50 minute scenic drive from Dunedin.
In the morning, get ready for a scenic journey to Te Anau, where you'll pass through the picturesque towns of Balclutha and Gore, each offering their unique charm and landscapes. As you travel, be prepared to be mesmerised by the beauty of the countryside and the changing vistas outside your window.
Upon reaching Te Anau, the remainder of the day is free to relax or take an optional tour.
In the late afternoon, depart Te Anau lakefront on a scenic luxury catamaran cruise to the lake’s western shores. On the way, the crew will share stories about the natural history and early pioneers of the region. Upon arrival, a specialist Nature Guide will take you on a guided walk into the forest and below ground to witness a twisting network of limestone passages, roaring whirlpools and waterfalls. Follow the path deep underground before transferring into small boats to drift silently along the river below for an extraordinary sparkling display in the glowworm grotto. Return to Te Anau lakefront by catamaran.
Duration: 2 hours. Bring non-slip shoes, waterproof jacket, warm clothing and insect repellent. Note: this tour requires walking over uneven ground.
Today offers a highlight of the South Island. Travel by coach to the Milford sound where you will board your vessel for your 2 hour cruise along the stunning waterways. A picnic lunch will be provided.
Milford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder located in Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast of New Zealand's South Island. Often considered one of the most stunning places on Earth, it is a breathtaking fiord characterised by its dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. Milford Sound is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Some of the notable wildlife species in Milford Sound include the Fiordland Crested Penguin, fur seals and dolphins.
Following your cruise, travel to Queenstown arriving in the late afternoon.
Enjoy fantastic aerial views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, waterfalls and the majestic Milford Sound on a 35 minute light aircraft flight to Queenstown. Includes complimentary transfer back to your accommodation.
A leisurely start to the day with a free morning to explore Queenstown. Why not take in the incredible views from Bob's Peak via a ride on the Skyline Gondola (not included).
This afternoon join your group for an included visit to quaint Arrowtown. Located 20 minutes from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming gold miners village. You will have free time to explore the shops or you may wish to check out the Lake District Museum.
Return to Queenstown where your evening is free. We recommend the option of an evening lake cruise and dinner.
Depart Queenstown Wharf on the historic coal fired vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. Cruise from Queenstown Bay to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Onboard, the captain provides an interesting commentary as you enjoy spectacular views of Cecil and Walter Peaks and the western shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. On disembarking at Walter Peak, enjoy a gourmet BBQ buffet style dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead featuring New Zealand cuisine. An entertaining farm demonstration is also included or you can explore the beautiful lakeside gardens. On your return journey, a tradition is the TSS Earnslaw’s sing-along around the piano.
Embark on an enchanting journey this morning as you venture towards Franz Josef, nestled in the breathtaking West Coast of New Zealand. As you traverse through this scenic route, you'll have the opportunity to make several stops along the way, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature with invigorating nature walks and capturing picture-perfect moments at scenic photo stops. The journey to Franz Josef is more than just a transportation experience; it's an exploration taking you through some of the most picturesque landscapes that the West Coast has to offer.
On arrival your afternoon is free to relax or take an optional Helicopter ride.
Discover the wonders of two glaciers in one scenic flight. Soar across pinnacles and crevasses and witness the deep blue ice of glacier country. Take advantage of the terrific photo opportunities of Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain. Snow landing is subject to weather conditions and is at the pilot's discretion. Duration of the tour is approximately 30 minutes.
Begin your morning with a journey to Greymouth, passing through the charming town of Hokitika. Along the way, be captivated by the scenic vistas that unfold before you, showcasing the natural beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.
Upon reaching Greymouth, you'll have some leisure time to indulge in a delightful lunch. For a highly recommended dining experience, we suggest heading to the Speight's Ale House, conveniently located across from the train station. There, you can savour a delectable meal while enjoying the warm hospitality and the rich flavours of locally brewed ales.
After lunch, embark on the Tranz Alpine train journey, commencing your picturesque ride from Greymouth to Christchurch. The Tranz Alpine is renowned for being one of the world's most scenic train rides, taking you through the heart of the Southern Alps and offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and picturesque valleys.
Upon arrival in Christchurch, your driver will be there to meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
This morning enjoy a guided tour of Christchurch. Sights visited may include Hagley Park & Botanical Gardens, Mona Vale, Avon River area, Cardboard Cathedral, Earthquake Memorial & the Arts Centre.
Afternoon is free to further explore the city at your leisure. Why not hop on the traditional tram (not included) or pre-book a punt on the beautiful Avon River.
This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow travellers to reminisce about your adventures.
Make your own way to Antigua Boat Sheds, and enjoy a 30 minute Punt ride on the Avon River. Sit back into the velvet cushions of your boat as the Edwardian punter propels you past the trailing willows and leafy banks of the prettiest stretch of the Avon River.
Today your exploration of New Zealand comes to an end. At the appropriate time please make your way to the airport for your flight home.
We hope the beauty and warm hospitality of New Zealand has inspired you.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”
By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,703.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.safetravel.govt.nz for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
20-44 Persons
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
