New Zealand Journey Tours & Train

Day 1: Arrive in Queenstown

Spend the day getting to know Queenstown and its surrounds on a small-group “Best of Queenstown” tour. Take in views over Lake Wakatipu, visit Arrowtown and the Shotover River, call at the Kawarau Bridge bungy, and sample Central Otago wine and cheese in Gibbston. A short lake cruise and time to explore Arrowtown round out this half-day experience, with the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 3: Milford Sound 

Today’s full-day small-group excursion takes you by glass-roofed coach through Fiordland to Milford Sound. Enjoy scenic stops at Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes and other viewpoints before joining a two-hour nature cruise beneath waterfalls and towering peaks, with the chance to see seals, penguins and dolphins. The day concludes with a scenic fixed-wing flight back to Queenstown, offering a bird’s-eye view of the mountains and fjords.

Day 4: Queenstown – Aoraki / Mount Cook

Leave Queenstown on a fully guided small-group journey towards Aoraki / Mount Cook. Travel via Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, with stops at viewpoints along the way. On arrival, check in to your hotel at Mount Cook Village and, after dark, join a Big Sky stargazing experience within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, conditions permitting.

Day 5: Mount Cook – Tasman Glacier & Christchurch

This morning, take a guided excursion to Tasman Glacier’s terminal lake, combining a short alpine walk with a boat cruise among icebergs on the glacial lake, learning about the changing landscape as you go. Later, continue on a small-group transfer from Mount Cook to Christchurch via Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, arriving at your central hotel with the evening free.

Day 6: Christchurch – City & Food Tour

Spend today exploring Ōtautahi Christchurch. A guided walking “City Meander” with a Māori-owned cultural food tour introduces the city’s stories, laneways and rebuilt precincts, interwoven with tastings from local producers and cafés. The rest of the day is free to visit the Botanic Gardens, stroll along the Avon River or discover the city’s galleries and street art.

Day 7: Coastal Pacific Train to Picton

In the morning you’ll be transferred to Christchurch Railway Station to board the Coastal Pacific train. Travel north along the Pacific coast past vineyards, farmland and rugged shoreline, with views to the Kaikōura Ranges and opportunities to spot seals and seabirds from the train. On arrival in Picton, make your way to your boutique accommodation close to the marina and waterfront. Overnight in Picton.

Day 8: Picton – Interislander Ferry to Wellington

Today you sail from Picton to Wellington on the Interislander ferry, with access to the Interislander Plus lounge. The voyage threads through the Marlborough Sounds before crossing Cook Strait to the capital, with time to enjoy the views and on-board refreshments. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your art-filled hotel on Wellington’s waterfront, within easy reach of Te Papa and Cuba Street.

Day 9: Wellington – Lord of the Rings & Weta Workshop

A half-day Lord of the Rings small-group tour visits filming locations around Wellington, including Mt Victoria, and includes a behind-the-scenes Workshop and Miniatures Tour at Weta Cave, with props and models from the films. There is also time at a city lookout. The remainder of the day is free to explore Wellington’s compact centre, museums and harbourfront on your own.

Day 10: Wellington – Auckland & Waiheke Island

Transfer by private vehicle to Wellington Airport for your flight to Auckland. On arrival in Tāmaki Makaurau, you are met and transferred into the city to your central hotel near the harbour and Britomart. Later, use your included return ferry tickets to cross to Waiheke Island, just over half an hour from downtown, or reserve the crossing for the following morning depending on timings and preference.

Day 11: Waiheke Food and Wine

Today is devoted to Waiheke’s vineyards and coastal scenery on a small-group gourmet food and wine tour. Visit a selection of wineries for hosted tastings accompanied by local produce – such as oysters, olive oil or honey – and enjoy a relaxed platter-style lunch overlooking the vines. There is free time in Oneroa Village to wander the beach, browse independent shops or pause in a café before returning to your accommodation or the ferry back to Auckland.

Day 12: Departure from Auckland

Depending on your flight time, you may have some final hours to explore the waterfront or nearby parks before your private transfer to Auckland Airport for your onward journey.

Our Price Includes:

• Private arrival and departure transfers in Queenstown, Wellington and Auckland, plus station and ferry transfers as specified
• Accommodation in the listed hotels (or similar) on a twin/double basis, with meals as specified (B = Breakfast, B&B = Bed and Breakfast, room only where stated)
• Small-group touring and experiences as per the itinerary
• All local taxes on included services

Our Price Excludes:

• International flights and associated airport taxes
• Any domestic flights not specified in the final quotation (Wellington–Auckland is costed separately and subject to change at time of booking)
• Optional activities and excursions mentioned as suggestions only or taken during free time
• Meals other than those stated in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Early check-in or late check-out unless specifically mentioned
• Personal expenses such as laundry, additional drinks, tips and any items not listed above