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New Zealand: Untamed Landscapes

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Overview Itinerary Dates & prices Reviews Hotels, flights & FAQ

New Zealand: Untamed Landscapes

with Fiji extension

Duration: 16 or 19 days
Group size: 15-35
Reviews: 35

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Discover the splendidly diverse country of New Zealand.

This island nation is known for its stunningly varied range of natural landscapes; 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 settings, you’ll get a taste of the welcoming Kiwi culture.

Your tour package includes

13 nights in handpicked hotels
13 breakfasts
5 dinners with beer or wine
1 wine tasting
10 guided sightseeing tours

Included highlights

Milford Sound
Abel Tasman National Park
Kiwi home-hosted dinner
Marlborough wine tasting
Wellington

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Day-by-day itinerary

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Overnight Flight2 nights

Day 1: Travel day

Cross the International Date Line in flight and “lose” a day.

Day 2: Travel day

Your flight continues to New Zealand.

Queenstown3 nights

Day 3: Arrival in Queenstown

Included meal: Welcome dinner

Welcome to New Zealand! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.

Day 4: Milford Sound

Included meal: Breakfast

Head out to explore the breathtaking Milford Sound in New Zealand’s Fiordland, home to some of the most memorable scenery in the world.

Travel through the Five Rivers farming region and past Lake Te’Anau
Pass through beautiful beech forests and stop at the glittering Mirror Lakes
Sip on a glass of wine as you cruise around Milford Sound, in view of Mitre Peak

Day 5: Free day in Queenstown

Included meal: Breakfast

Spend a free day in Queenstown or add an excursion.

Walter Peak: Lake Cruise & Lunch

Excursion (additional cost)

Walter Peak: Lake Cruise & Dinner

Excursion (additional cost)

Franz Josef Glacier1 night

Day 6: Transfer to Franz Josef Glacier

Included meal: Breakfast

Enjoy a scenic drive through the island’s Southern Alps to Franz Josef Glacier, stopping at Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka, Knight’s Point, and Thunder Creek Falls along the way.

Please note: On some departures, you may stay overnight in Fox Glacier.

Hokitika1 night

Day 7: Transfer to Hokitika

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a free morning at Franz Josef Glacier or add an excursion.

Then, transfer to Hokitika and sit down for an included dinner.

Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Ride

Excursion (additional cost)

Nelson2 nights

Day 8: Nelson via Punakaiki

Included meal: Breakfast

Leave Hokitika behind as you set out for Nelson, making scenic stops en route.

Stop at the Cape Foulwind Seal Colony to see the area’s famous residents
Visit the distinctive “pancake” rocks and tidal blowholes of Punakaiki
Pass through the dramatic Buller Gorge before arriving in Nelson

Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park & cruise

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Head out to explore Abel Tasman National Park and Kaiteriteri Beach, where you’ll embark on a scenic cruise.

Journey by boat through the South Island’s pristine coves and turquoise waters
Visit breathtaking Kaiteriteri Beach

Tonight, dine with a Kiwi family at a traditional home-hosted dinner.

Wellington2 nights

Day 10: Wellington via Marlborough

Included meal: Breakfast

On your way to Wellington, stop for a wine tasting in Marlborough, a region renowned for its sauvignon blanc.

Then, board a ferry for a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait to the city of Wellington on the North Island.

Day 11: Sightseeing tour of Wellington

Included meal: Breakfast

Get to know Wellington, the southernmost capital city of any sovereign state, on a guided tour led by your Tour Director.

Explore the interactive exhibitions at Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum
Take in views of the city from soaring Mount Victoria
Wander along the Wellington waterfront

Rotorua2 nights

Day 12: Transfer to Rotorua

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Head to Rotorua, in the heart of the North Island’s Maori country.

Stop at Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Learn about Operation Nest Egg at Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park, New Zealand’s largest kiwi hatchery
Visit a Maori village, where you'll sit down to a traditional hangi feast of specialties that have been cooking in the steaming ground

Day 13: Sightseeing tour of the Rotorua Region

Included meal: Breakfast

Join a local guide for a sightseeing tour in the Rotorua region.

Visit the village of Whakarewarewa, which is home to thermal springs and bubbling hot pools
Join a local Whakarewarewa guide to learn about the lifestyle and traditions of the Maori people, who live in harmony with nature in the village
Visit Rotorua's Government Gardens, a public park and site of great historical importance to the local Maori people

Please note: For an additional cost, you can book a tour of the Hobbiton movie set through your Tour Director.

Then, enjoy a free evening in the Rotorua region or add an excursion.

Skyline Gondola Ride & Dinner

Excursion (additional cost)

Auckland2 nights

Day 14: Auckland via Waitomo

Included meal: Breakfast

En route to Auckland, stop at Waitomo Caves to try your hand at spelunking. Then, take a subterranean cruise to view the remarkable Glowworm Grotto on a guided tour.

Later, stop by Auckland Harbour and walk to the Harbour Bridge with your Tour Director leading the way.

Day 15: Free day in Auckland

Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner

Enjoy a full free day in Auckland or add an excursion.

This evening, celebrate your trip with your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner.

Waiheke Island

Excursion (additional cost)

Flight Home

Day 16: Departure

Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay to explore Fiji.

Extension to Fiji

Fly to Fiji to continue your trip and discover what makes the island the definition of paradise. It definitely has something to do with all those palm trees and totally perfect beaches, which you’ll have plenty of time to get familiar with.

Fiji3 nights

Day 16: Arrival in Fiji

Included meal: Breakfast

Fly to Nadi, Fiji, and transfer to your seaside hotel.

Day 17: Free day in Fiji

Included meal: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day in Fiji or add an excursion.

Tivua Island Sailing & Snorkeling

Excursion (additional cost)

Day 18: Free day in Fiji

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Spend another free day in Fiji or add an excursion.

Then, sit down for an included dinner featuring local seafood this evening.

Fiji Village Visit: Indigenous Culture & Traditions

Excursion (additional cost)

Flight Home

Day 19: Departure

Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)

Spend the afternoon relaxing in a dayroom, then transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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Reviews

4.8 average

Our reviews are authentic and unedited.

New Zealand Untamed

03/02/2020 by 2nd time traveler Amy B.

We loved the variety and seeing both islands. The natural beaty was outstanding...Milford Sound, Pancake Rocks, Tasman National Park, Queenstown, Wellington Museum Te Aura (?) and pastoral drives were some of our favs, along with our semi-private dinner with a Kiwi family. Our tour guide Ben Powney ...

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Go Ahead Tours replied on 03/02/2020

Dear Amy, Our Tour Directors are so passionate abo...

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Fantastic!

02/18/2020 by 11th time traveler Joanne H.

This was our 10th GoAhead tour, and it was one of the best. New Zealand has been on our bucket list for many years, and we had high expectations. The tour did not disappoint. Our guide, Ben, was entertaining, helpful, knowledgeable, and a joy to travel with. Our three bus drivers were very profe...

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Spectacular Scenery Unsurpassed!

02/18/2020 by 4th time traveler Barbara H.

Kia Ora! With our terrific Tour Director, Ben, leading the way, we experienced spectacular scenery, fascinating cultural activities, marvelous meals, and wonderful wine tastings. Our dinners with Kiwi families on the North Island were a highlight. When several tour members were interested in s...

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Great way to experience NZ!

02/18/2020 by 2nd time traveler Kelly W.

Great timing with this trip and the weather! Tour director Ben was efficient and helpful and gave hints on best ways to go, places to see, notice, buy. Also hands off to let us explore on our own. Amazing story teller. Highly recommend this for your first time in NZ. Comprehensive and fun!

11/18/2019 by 3rd time traveler JoAnn C.

Hello, I apologies for not sending this earlier. The tour was a wonderful experience. The beauty of New Zealand was unbelievable. I really enjoyed Queentowns and Milford Sound. The only down fall for Milford Sound was the rain. It was a wonderful time and would have been great to see the fiord...

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Hotels, flights & FAQ

Here's the nitty-gritty—where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what to know about your destination before you go.

Hotels

We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa

This beachfront hotel is located in the Cove. Guests enjoy WiFi, a private beach club, and spa. Nearby, you'll find Denarau Golf Club, Port Denarau Sh...

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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor

This modern hotel is located in the heart of Wellington. Guests enjoy a fitness center, spa, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Parliament, Lambton Q...

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Rydges Auckland

This contemporary hotel is located downtown. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a gym, and restaurant. Nearby, you'll find Albert Park, the New Zealand Maritime ...

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Distinction Rotorua Hotel

This conveniently located hotel is located minutes from the Rotorua city center. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, room service, and a gym. Nearby, you’ll find...

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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

This cozy hotel is located in the heart of Fox Glacier village. Guests enjoy a café and bar, laundry facility, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Fox...

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Beachfront Hotel Hokitika

This modern hotel is located in central Hokitika. Guests enjoy an on-site bar, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Hokitika Beach, Hokitik...

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Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown

This scenic hotel is located on the lakefront. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a restaurant, and room service. Nearby, you'll find Saint Omer Park, Ben Lomond...

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Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Heartland Hotel Queenstown has a distinctive design close to all the action in the bustling resort town. Even with the amazing views of the mountains ...

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Flights

Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.

Add our airfare package and you'll get:

Round-trip flight for your tour
Airport transfers at your destination
A great price locked in today
24/7 support from our dedicated service team
Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes

Find out more about flights

FAQ

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Passport & visa requirements

In order to enter New Zealand (and the Republic of Fiji on the tour extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
Effective October 1, 2019, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must purchase an individual visa and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy on the New Zealand government’s Electronic Travel Authority website immigration.govt.nz/nzeta prior to departure.
U.S. and Canadian citizens are automatically issued a visa upon arrival in Fiji (on the tour extension).
If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.

Tour pace

You will walk for at least 2 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including unpaved trails, with few hills and steep stairs.
Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of boats.
Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.

Transportation & arrival information

Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Queenstown and depart from Auckland (or Nadi on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
A boat ride to the Milford Sound and Abel Tasman as well as a ferry from Picton to Wellington, are included in the price of your tour. (The tour extension also includes a flight from Auckland to Nadi.)
All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.

Baggage allowance

Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.

Clothing & packing tips

We recommend lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing. Hiking boots might come in handy if you plan to do any extensive walking or hiking.
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Bug repellent is also useful, as there can be flies during certain times of year.
You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.

Health

There are no major health risks associated with traveling to any of the countries on this tour.
At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
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 lifeguards’ orders, and always swim between the marked flags.
If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.

Cuisine

In New Zealand, there are many good local varieties of fish and seafood, excellent lamb, and fresh fruits, including kiwi and passion fruits. For lunch, tea rooms serve savory meat pies, quiche, and desserts.
On the tour extension, Fijian cuisine is traditionally healthy and fresh, incorporating local seafood, coconut, pineapple, and tubers such as taro.

Electricity & air conditioning

New Zealand (plus Fiji on the tour extension) operates on the standard 220-240 volts and uses Type I plugs with three large, flat pins set on an angle.
We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
Not all hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.

Time zones

You’ll travel through New Zealand Central Standard Time, which is 17 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time (ET).
Fiji is 16 hours ahead of ET.
When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5am in New Zealand (and 4am in Fiji on the tour extension).

Currency

You will use the New Zealand dollar (plus the Fiji dollar on the tour extension).
Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.

Tipping

At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
We recommend tipping the equivalent of $7USD to $10USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
Tips can only be paid in cash.

Purchasing excursions on tour

Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

Dates & prices

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