New Zealand: Untamed Landscapes 15 days / Nature & Wildlife Tours
About This Experience
New Zealand is the birthplace of bungee jumping—but you don’t have to free-fall into the Kawarau Gorge to have your breath taken away. This island nation is often called the “adrenaline capital of the world”; you’ll understand why when you cruise through the fjords of Milford Sound or ascend the peaks of the Southern Alps. Amid these spectacular untamed landscapes, you’ll get a taste of the welcoming Kiwi culture and the country’s renowned sauvignon blanc.
Look for this symbol throughout the tour itinerary to discover sustainable highlights. Sustainable highlights include activities that benefit indigenous cultures or help protect local wildlife.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
12 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 three-course dinners with beer or wine, 1 wine tasting
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Stunning volcanic landscapes
The intriguing Maori culture
The South Island’s beautiful bays & beaches
The spectacular Milford Sound
Sharing a home-cooked meal with a Kiwi family
Following in Frodo’s footsteps
Overnight Flight2 nights
Auckland1 night - hotel info
Day3
Investigate Auckland, from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to New Zealand. A Go Ahead representative helps you transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Auckland and behold the cityscape and twin harbors from the harbor bridge. Dinner is included tonight.
Rotorua2 nights - hotel info
Day4
Bask in the glimmer of glowworms in the Waitomo Caves
Breakfast
TThis morning, you’ll transfer to Rotorua, stopping to tour the Waitomo Caves, known for their remarkable glowworms. Descend into these caverns and board a subterranean cruise. Arrive in Roturua later today, a city built on a geothermal hot spot and a mecca for adventurers and outdoor lovers the world over.
Day5
Explore the redwood forests and clear blue lakes of Rotorua
Breakfast, Dinner
Situated in a breathtaking valley, Rotorua is the gateway to the North Island’s Bay of Plenty region. Today you’ll take a guided tour of Rotorua, including the Government Gardens, a public park and site of great historical importance to the local Maori people. You’ll escape among the towering redwoods of the Whakarewarewa Forest, located just five minutes from the city’s center, and view the cerulean waters of nearby Lake Tikitapu. After the conclusion of your tour, the rest of the afternoon is free to spend as you like. A popular attraction is the Rotorua Museum of Art and History, located within the famous Bath House at Government Gardens. Or, you might embark on our optional half-day Maori Cultural Tour highlighting the traditions and rituals of the Maori people. Tonight, savor an included traditional Maori hangi feast.
Optional Excursions
Maori Cultural Tour $89* pp
Discover the indigenous roots of New Zealand culture with a half-day visit to the Maori village of Whakarewarewa, in the heart of the Rotorua Region. Originally the site of a Maori fortress, the geothermal landscape has long been utilized by the Maori people for cooking and heating. A local guide will introduce you to the unique traditions of the Maori people, who continue to live in harmony with nature. After a walk around the village, the tour continues with a scenic drive around the lakes district that surrounds the spectacular volcanic Mount Tarawera.
Wellington1 night - hotel info
Day6
Traverse the North Island’s volcanic mountains and crystalline lakes
Breakfast
Travel south to Wellington along the edge of the stark Kaimanawa Range. You’ll stop at Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Wellington later today, the capital of New Zealand, where you may wish to visit the Parliament Building or Te Papa, the remarkable national museum of New Zealand.
Nelson2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Sip a sauvignon blanc to celebrate your arrival on the South Island
Breakfast
Wine tasting
Board a ferry for a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait to South Island. Disembark in Marlborough, a region renowned for its sauvignon blanc, where you’ll visit the town of Picton for lunch and an included wine tasting. Continue on to Nelson to settle into your hotel. One of the sunniest places in New Zealand, Nelson is the closest thing to a big city you’ll find in the “Top of the South,” the fertile lands on the southern edge of Tasman Bay.
Day8
Experience New Zealand’s dramatic scenery and warm hospitality
Breakfast, Dinner
Today, travel through the vineyards and orchards surrounding Nelson en route to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. You’ll board a catamaran for a relaxing journey through the South Island’s pristine coves and turquoise waters. You’ll see Kaiteriteri Beach, Torrent Bay and Bark Bay, and the world-famous Split Apple Rock. Tonight, dine with a Kiwi family at a home-hosted dinner.
Greymouth Region1 night - hotel info
Day9
Navigate through the bursting blowholes on the Pancake Rocks
Breakfast
Drive along South Island’s scenic west coast. You’ll pass through the dramatic Buller Gorge before breaking out to the edge of the Tasman Sea. Then, you’ll turn south as you make your way toward the distinctive “pancake” rocks and tidal blowholes of Punakaiki.
Fox Glacier1 night - hotel info
Day10
Gaze up at Fox Glacier, from the mountain to the rainforest
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, transfer to the quaint, sleepy town of Fox Glacier. You’ll drive through countryside that once hosted New Zealand’s West Coast Gold Rush, stopping to take photos along the way. This afternoon, you’ll venture to Fox or Franz Joseph Glacier. Consider an optional helicopter ride to better appreciate the glacier’s monumental size and for a chance to step foot on the glacier. Back at your hotel you’ll savor an included dinner.
Optional Excursions
Fox Glacier Helicopter Ride $199* pp
Get close to the ice falls of Fox Glacier and experience the solitude of a snow landing in this natural alpine wonderland.
Queenstown3 nights - hotel info
Day11
Journey across the Southern Alps to New Zealand’s adventure capital
Breakfast
Make your way to Queenstown this morning, passing by the placid waters of Bruce Bay, Lake Paringa and Lake Moeraki before crossing the Southern Alps via the Haast Pass. Before reaching Queenstown, you’ll witness the Kawarau Gorge, the birthplace of bungee jumping. Upon arrival in Queenstown, you’ll have the rest of the evening to yourself.
Day12
Cruise through the waterfall-laden fjord of Milford Sound
Breakfast
Depart early this morning to see the breathtaking scenery of Milford Sound. The journey takes you through the Five Rivers farming region and around the shores of Te Anau Lake and into fjord country. After climbing to the Homer Saddle and driving through the Homer Tunnel, follow the beautiful Cleddau River into Milford Sound. On arrival, board a boat for a cruise around the sound. Created during the Ice Age, the fjord knifes out into the sea, between native forests and sheer cliff faces. This is some of the most memorable scenery in the world, and the view of the mile-high Mitre Peak is truly unforgettable.
Day13
Feel the adrenaline on a gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak
Breakfast
Get to know Queenstown at your leisure. You might ascend nearby Bob’s Peak via the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views of the city or consider joining our optional excursion to Walter Peak. This excursion begins with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, followed by a high-country dinner and a sheepdog demonstration. The excursion concludes with a scenic cruise back to Queenstown.
Optional Excursions
Walter Peak $99* pp
Board the steam-powered TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu. Your destination is Walter Peak, one of New Zealand’s most famous sheep and cattle stations. There, you'll enjoy a four-course dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and watch a sheep-shearing demonstration and sheep dog show before embarking on another scenic cruise back to Queenstown. Please note: In June and July, the TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing routine maintenance. During these months, travelers will travel on a launch boat and dinner will be included at a Queenstown restaurant. Additionally, a wind-and-waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Christchurch1 night - hotel info
Day14
Motor past sheep-dotted plains and turquoise lakes to Christchurch
Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy another scenic drive, passing the blue waters of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo before continuing through the Mackenzie Country, famous as a location for filming The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This evening, reminisce with your fellow travelers at your farewell dinner.
Extend Your Stay
Add Fiji $689*
Conjure up your fantasy of paradise on earth: you’re probably imagining Fiji. Gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, colorful coral reefs, lush tropical rainforests and majestic mountains—that’s what makes this island nation in the South Pacific one of the most enticing places on Earth. Paradise, aside, perhaps the true allure of Fiji lies with the warmth of the people and the fascinating blend of cultures that has endured for centuries.
About This Experience
New Zealand is the birthplace of bungee jumping—but you don’t have to free-fall into the Kawarau Gorge to have your breath taken away. This island nation is often called the “adrenaline capital of the world”; you’ll understand why when you cruise through the fjords of Milford Sound or ascend the peaks of the Southern Alps. Amid these spectacular untamed landscapes, you’ll get a taste of the welcoming Kiwi culture and the country’s renowned sauvignon blanc.
Look for this symbol throughout the tour itinerary to discover sustainable highlights. Sustainable highlights include activities that benefit indigenous cultures or help protect local wildlife.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
12 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 three-course dinners with beer or wine, 1 wine tasting
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Stunning volcanic landscapes
The intriguing Maori culture
The South Island’s beautiful bays & beaches
The spectacular Milford Sound
Sharing a home-cooked meal with a Kiwi family
Following in Frodo’s footsteps
Overnight Flight2 nights
Auckland1 night - hotel info
Day3
Investigate Auckland, from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to New Zealand. A Go Ahead representative helps you transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Auckland and behold the cityscape and twin harbors from the harbor bridge. Dinner is included tonight.
Rotorua2 nights - hotel info
Day4
Bask in the glimmer of glowworms in the Waitomo Caves
Breakfast
TThis morning, you’ll transfer to Rotorua, stopping to tour the Waitomo Caves, known for their remarkable glowworms. Descend into these caverns and board a subterranean cruise. Arrive in Roturua later today, a city built on a geothermal hot spot and a mecca for adventurers and outdoor lovers the world over.
Day5
Explore the redwood forests and clear blue lakes of Rotorua
Breakfast, Dinner
Situated in a breathtaking valley, Rotorua is the gateway to the North Island’s Bay of Plenty region. Today you’ll take a guided tour of Rotorua, including the Government Gardens, a public park and site of great historical importance to the local Maori people. You’ll escape among the towering redwoods of the Whakarewarewa Forest, located just five minutes from the city’s center, and view the cerulean waters of nearby Lake Tikitapu. After the conclusion of your tour, the rest of the afternoon is free to spend as you like. A popular attraction is the Rotorua Museum of Art and History, located within the famous Bath House at Government Gardens. Or, you might embark on our optional half-day Maori Cultural Tour highlighting the traditions and rituals of the Maori people. Tonight, savor an included traditional Maori hangi feast.
Optional Excursions
Maori Cultural Tour $89* pp
Discover the indigenous roots of New Zealand culture with a half-day visit to the Maori village of Whakarewarewa, in the heart of the Rotorua Region. Originally the site of a Maori fortress, the geothermal landscape has long been utilized by the Maori people for cooking and heating. A local guide will introduce you to the unique traditions of the Maori people, who continue to live in harmony with nature. After a walk around the village, the tour continues with a scenic drive around the lakes district that surrounds the spectacular volcanic Mount Tarawera.
Wellington1 night - hotel info
Day6
Traverse the North Island’s volcanic mountains and crystalline lakes
Breakfast
Travel south to Wellington along the edge of the stark Kaimanawa Range. You’ll stop at Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Wellington later today, the capital of New Zealand, where you may wish to visit the Parliament Building or Te Papa, the remarkable national museum of New Zealand.
Nelson2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Sip a sauvignon blanc to celebrate your arrival on the South Island
Breakfast
Wine tasting
Board a ferry for a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait to South Island. Disembark in Marlborough, a region renowned for its sauvignon blanc, where you’ll visit the town of Picton for lunch and an included wine tasting. Continue on to Nelson to settle into your hotel. One of the sunniest places in New Zealand, Nelson is the closest thing to a big city you’ll find in the “Top of the South,” the fertile lands on the southern edge of Tasman Bay.
Day8
Experience New Zealand’s dramatic scenery and warm hospitality
Breakfast, Dinner
Today, travel through the vineyards and orchards surrounding Nelson en route to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. You’ll board a catamaran for a relaxing journey through the South Island’s pristine coves and turquoise waters. You’ll see Kaiteriteri Beach, Torrent Bay and Bark Bay, and the world-famous Split Apple Rock. Tonight, dine with a Kiwi family at a home-hosted dinner.
Greymouth Region1 night - hotel info
Day9
Navigate through the bursting blowholes on the Pancake Rocks
Breakfast
Drive along South Island’s scenic west coast. You’ll pass through the dramatic Buller Gorge before breaking out to the edge of the Tasman Sea. Then, you’ll turn south as you make your way toward the distinctive “pancake” rocks and tidal blowholes of Punakaiki.
Fox Glacier1 night - hotel info
Day10
Gaze up at Fox Glacier, from the mountain to the rainforest
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, transfer to the quaint, sleepy town of Fox Glacier. You’ll drive through countryside that once hosted New Zealand’s West Coast Gold Rush, stopping to take photos along the way. This afternoon, you’ll venture to Fox or Franz Joseph Glacier. Consider an optional helicopter ride to better appreciate the glacier’s monumental size and for a chance to step foot on the glacier. Back at your hotel you’ll savor an included dinner.
Optional Excursions
Fox Glacier Helicopter Ride $199* pp
Get close to the ice falls of Fox Glacier and experience the solitude of a snow landing in this natural alpine wonderland.
Queenstown3 nights - hotel info
Day11
Journey across the Southern Alps to New Zealand’s adventure capital
Breakfast
Make your way to Queenstown this morning, passing by the placid waters of Bruce Bay, Lake Paringa and Lake Moeraki before crossing the Southern Alps via the Haast Pass. Before reaching Queenstown, you’ll witness the Kawarau Gorge, the birthplace of bungee jumping. Upon arrival in Queenstown, you’ll have the rest of the evening to yourself.
Day12
Cruise through the waterfall-laden fjord of Milford Sound
Breakfast
Depart early this morning to see the breathtaking scenery of Milford Sound. The journey takes you through the Five Rivers farming region and around the shores of Te Anau Lake and into fjord country. After climbing to the Homer Saddle and driving through the Homer Tunnel, follow the beautiful Cleddau River into Milford Sound. On arrival, board a boat for a cruise around the sound. Created during the Ice Age, the fjord knifes out into the sea, between native forests and sheer cliff faces. This is some of the most memorable scenery in the world, and the view of the mile-high Mitre Peak is truly unforgettable.
Day13
Feel the adrenaline on a gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak
Breakfast
Get to know Queenstown at your leisure. You might ascend nearby Bob’s Peak via the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views of the city or consider joining our optional excursion to Walter Peak. This excursion begins with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, followed by a high-country dinner and a sheepdog demonstration. The excursion concludes with a scenic cruise back to Queenstown.
Optional Excursions
Walter Peak $99* pp
Board the steam-powered TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu. Your destination is Walter Peak, one of New Zealand’s most famous sheep and cattle stations. There, you'll enjoy a four-course dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and watch a sheep-shearing demonstration and sheep dog show before embarking on another scenic cruise back to Queenstown. Please note: In June and July, the TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing routine maintenance. During these months, travelers will travel on a launch boat and dinner will be included at a Queenstown restaurant. Additionally, a wind-and-waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Christchurch1 night - hotel info
Day14
Motor past sheep-dotted plains and turquoise lakes to Christchurch
Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy another scenic drive, passing the blue waters of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo before continuing through the Mackenzie Country, famous as a location for filming The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This evening, reminisce with your fellow travelers at your farewell dinner.
Extend Your Stay
Add Fiji $689*
Conjure up your fantasy of paradise on earth: you’re probably imagining Fiji. Gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, colorful coral reefs, lush tropical rainforests and majestic mountains—that’s what makes this island nation in the South Pacific one of the most enticing places on Earth. Paradise, aside, perhaps the true allure of Fiji lies with the warmth of the people and the fascinating blend of cultures that has endured for centuries.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter New Zealand (as well as the Republic of Fiji, on extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. When entering Fiji, U.S. and Canadian citizens are automatically issued a visa upon arrival. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, please contact the relevant embassies for your entry requirements.
Health
Health risks in New Zealand are not much different than in the United States. Travelers should be take particular care of sun exposure and drink plenty of liquids. If you choose to go swimming, be careful of powerful surf. Make sure to obey signs and lifeguard orders, and always swim between the well-marked flags. Be sure to check with your health care provider for the latest health updates and overseas travel requirements.
Cuisine
In New Zealand, there are many good local varieties of fish and seafood, excellent venison and superb fruits, including kiwi and passion fruits. For lunch, tea rooms serve savory meat pies, quiche and desserts.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in Auckland and leave from Christchurch (or Nadi on the extension). All other transfers are serviced by private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the locations via public transport. Christchurch is easily accessed by bus and is also ideal for cycling. While in Auckland, transportation by ferry, rail and bus is now connected by the new Britomart interchange, completed in 2003.
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you will have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing and Packing Tips
In the tropics, lightweight clothing is suitable year-round. During the southern winter (June-August), warm clothing is advised, as is rainwear for the South Island of New Zealand. Sneakers are advised for exploring reefs and beaches, as are sun hat and sunscreen. There will rarely be an occasion for formal attire.
Currency
The unit of currency you will be using on your tour is the New Zealand dollar. Better rates of exchange are found in those countries. We recommend taking a combination of ATM/bank cards, credit cards and travelers checks, which can be exchanged for local currency as needed. All are widely accepted. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalent of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Amazing Trip!
What an amazing trip! This was my first time to the South Pacific and I am so glad that I chose to dedicate one whole trip to just New Zealand. There is so much that this country has to offer, from snow capped volcanoes and icy glaciers, to sheep-spotted meadows and placid lakes. Each day offered a new array of breathtaking scenery and is worthy of at least a two-week experience. Not only is the nature on this tour unmatched, but the culture is so rich and interesting. You'll learn so much in two weeks about the Maori culture and the modern Kiwis! The highlight on this tour for me was dining at the Kiwi family's house. It gave us insight into a true New Zealander's life and allowed us the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed setting. I coulnd't have asked for a better experience. The fact that I can tell my family and friends that I walked on a glacier, zip-lined over a gorge, and pet a baby lamb all in one trip is incomparable. I can't wait to take my next trip with Go Ahead!
Great Tour -- Once we got there
This tour is fantastic. Erika is extremely knowledgeable and makes it fun to learn about the Maori culture. Doug, our bus driver on the North island, was also a great source of information and fun to be around. Chris, our driver on the South island, tackled those winding roads with ease. A group of us left from Montana. We understand weather delays, but were disappointed with the on call agent when our originating flight to Denver was cancelled. One of our group had to go up to the airport to get us booked the next day for flights. She got very little assistance from the on call person. After we were rebooked, she gave us incorrect information. We spent the travel time thinking that we not only missed the sightseeing in Aukland and the welcome dinner but that we were also going to miss the Glow worm caves. That was something we were really looking forward to. We were pleasantly surprised when Erika met our bus and told us our group was waiting for us! There are a couple tweaks that as a group we thought would make the experience better for subsequent groups, but as we were the first tour with this agenda, that is to be expected. All in all, it was a great group of people on a great adventure!
