Ultimate New Zealand

Upon your arrival in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest metropolis, make your own way to your hotel for the evening. Auckland, often hailed as the “City of Sails,” boasts a striking location nestled between two expansive harbors. The cityscape is prominently graced by the renowned Sky Tower, providing breathtaking panoramic vistas of Auckland, extending to the enchanting Viaduct Harbour teeming with opulent superyachts and a vibrant assortment of bars and cafes. Beyond lies the expansive Hauraki Gulf. The remainder of the day is yours to savor the charm of this splendid urban oasis.

• Accommodation
  Sudima Auckland City – 4 Star

Embark on your journey from Auckland City as you head south, traversing the scenic Bombay Hills and crossing through the expansive Hauraki Plains en route to the majestic Coromandel Ranges. Traverse this awe-inspiring mountain range and follow the picturesque East Coast of Coromandel, heading northward towards the captivating Hot Water Beach. If your arrival aligns with high tide, within a two-hour window, you’ll have the chance to unearth your very own natural hot pool just meters away from the Pacific Ocean.

Continue your adventure by heading south along the coastline, bidding farewell to Coromandel, and passing through the renowned Bay of Plenty kiwifruit cultivation region, before reaching the enchanting city of Rotorua. Nestled inland by the serene Lake Rotorua, this city is renowned for its bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, rejuvenating natural hot springs, and serves as a cultural hub, offering an immersive experience into New Zealand’s captivating Māori heritage.

• Accommodation
  Distinction Rotorua – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

Enjoy a day of leisure in Rotorua, a city celebrated for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori heritage. Explore the Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley, where you’ll encounter mesmerizing bubbling mud pools and the impressive 30-meter-tall Pohutu Geyser, known for its frequent eruptions throughout the day. Immerse yourself in Maori culture within a living Maori village, and consider opting for a visit to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can engage in traditional wood carving and weaving workshops.

Optionally, join our Te Puia exploration tour. For generations, Te Puia has warmly welcomed visitors from around the globe to discover the enchantment concealed within the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. Here, you can witness the grandeur of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest active geyser, Pōhutu Geyser, marvel at bubbling mud pools scattered throughout the valley, and admire exquisite Māori-crafted art and sculptures showcased throughout Te Puia. Experience the artistry of carvers and weavers as they showcase their talents at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, all while our knowledgeable guides share ancestral stories.

• Accommodation
  Distinction Rotorua – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Optional Activities
  Te Puia Exploration – USD 90

In the morning, leave Rotorua for Taupo, with the option to visit Orakei Korako along the way. Orakei Korako, tucked away in the Taupo Volcanic Zone between Rotorua and Taupo, offers a unique volcanic experience. With 23 active geysers and ever-changing landscapes, it’s a mesmerizing natural wonder. Stroll through the Hidden Valley, explore the thermal Ruatapu Cave, which plunges more than 36 meters into volcanic tuff to the ‘Waiwhakaata’ or ‘Pool of Mirrors’ hot pool below.

Upon reaching Taupo, you’ll be greeted by the expansive Lake Taupō, a volcanic caldera where its waters flow into the striking Huka Falls. These captivating, crystal-blue cascades are well worth a stop on your way into Taupō.

Leaving Taupo, embark on a scenic drive around the southern shore of the lake, passing through Turangi and entering the Tongariro National Park. This park, centered around three volcanoes – Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu – showcases some of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

• Accommodation
  The Park Hotel – Lodge or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Visit to Lake Taupō
  Visit to Tongariro National Park
• Optional Activities
  Visit to Orakei Korako – NZD 47

Today, you have the opportunity to venture into the heart of Tongariro National Park, a sanctuary housing three active volcanic peaks and boasting iconic and breathtaking scenery. This revered park has drawn explorers of all generations since its inception in 1887. Offering vast expanses of untouched wilderness, world-renowned hiking trails, and awe-inspiring natural marvels, Tongariro National Park stands as the ultimate destination for an immersive nature getaway.

• Accommodation
  The Park Hotel – Lodge or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

As you leave Tongariro National Park behind, carry on your southern journey through the Manawatu region. Brimming with rustic allure, this area offers an excellent opportunity to soak up the essence of rural New Zealand culture. Traverse the town of Bulls, known for its playful bull-themed signs (keep an eye out for ‘Relieve-a-bull’ if nature calls)! Your route will lead you along the North Island’s West Coast, passing through Paraparaumu, and ultimately bringing you to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city and the center of its parliamentary affairs.

• Accommodation
  Naumi Studios – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

Following a brief morning sightseeing tour, the remainder of the day is yours to explore Wellington at your leisure. Consider embarking on an unforgettable journey aboard the iconic Wellington Cable Car, which offers stunning panoramic vistas of the city. In this vibrant metropolis, you can meander through concealed alleyways adorned with captivating street art and embark on scenic sculpture walks along the city’s waterfront.

Delve into the rich narratives of Aotearoa New Zealand through world-class museums and galleries, with the interactive and immersive Te Papa, the national museum, being a highly recommended choice. Wellington’s well-earned reputation as New Zealand’s culinary hub shines brightly, boasting a higher concentration of eateries and bars per capita than even New York City. Explore the city’s renowned hidden bars, embrace the café culture, savor award-winning dining establishments, and revel in excellent coffee.

• Accommodation
  Naumi Studios – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Wellington

This morning, make your way to Wellington Airport for your flight to Christchurch, where you’ll be greeted by a coach for your journey northward. You’ll pass through the Waipara wine-growing region, traverse the charming town of Cheviot, cross the Hundalee Hills, and witness the breathtaking East Coast of the South Island unfold before your eyes. The vistas along this route as you approach Kaikoura are truly remarkable, featuring stunning and rugged coastlines with endless sea views stretching to the horizon.

Nestled amidst this picturesque coastal scenery is the town of Kaikoura, celebrated for its abundant marine life, picturesque coastal trails, and, of course, its delectable seafood, including crayfish/lobster. Kaikoura stands as an iconic New Zealand coastal town that embodies the untouched natural beauty of New Zealand’s coastline.

• Accommodation
  Sudima Kaikoura – 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Scenic Drive to Kaikoura

Starting your journey from Kaikoura, travel through the quaint town of Waiau, and then venture across the alpine Lewis Pass toward the West Coast of the South Island. Proceed further inland to Reefton, a town whose name harkens back to the late 1860s when extensive gold-bearing quartz reefs were discovered. Reefton still exudes a charming historic character and earned the moniker ‘the town of light’ for pioneering electric street lighting in the southern hemisphere as early as 1888. Additionally, it’s famous for its exceptional freshwater fishing, with 12 different river systems accessible within a 40-minute drive from the town center, earning it a worldwide reputation.

• Continuing your route, you’ll pass through the cozy village of Charleston before reaching Punakaiki. Prepare to be amazed by the Punakaiki pancake rocks and blowholes, where water columns erupt dramatically from formations that resemble enormous stacks of pancakes. From here, proceed with your journey to Greymouth.
  • Accommodation
    The Ashley Hotel Greymouth – 3 Star or similar
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Visit to Reefton
    Visit to Punakaiki

This morning, you find yourself in Greymouth, a town steeped in the legacy of gold mining and once the location of the Maori pa known as Mawhera, named for its strategic river mouth location. Greymouth holds the distinction of being the central hub of the West Coast and is also the largest town on the South Island’s west coast. Departing from Greymouth, your journey southward takes you along the picturesque and untamed coastline, winding through luxuriant native rainforests, and passing by numerous stunning lakes en route to Franz Josef.

• Accommodation
  Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

This morning, you’ll awaken in the welcoming town of Franz Josef, which serves as the gateway for exploring the glacier bearing the same name. This glacier descends from the Southern Alps and extends into the temperate rainforest, reaching just 300 meters above sea level.

Your journey today takes you south along the West Coast to Haast. From there, you’ll venture inland through Haast Pass, eventually arriving at the charming town of Wanaka. Continuing on your route, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Arrowtown, a picturesque and historically significant village, before reaching Queenstown.

Queenstown is a stunning alpine town nestled along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges. It’s a popular destination year-round, known for its distinct four seasons. Winter offers clear, blue-sky days, spring retains a touch of snow while transitioning into longer, warmer days, summer brings sunshine and extended twilight hours, and autumn paints the landscape with vibrant hues of red and gold.

• Accommodation
  Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakefront – 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Visit to Arrowtown

Today, you have the option to enjoy a free day in Queenstown or opt for an excursion to Milford Sound. If you choose the latter, your day begins with a departure from Queenstown, embarking on a delightful journey to Milford Sound. Along the way, you’ll travel alongside Lake Wakatipu, passing through the charming towns of Kingston, Mossburn, and Te Anau. This leg of your adventure treats you to a mesmerizing array of landscapes, ranging from verdant beech forests and expansive valleys to mirror-like lakes, towering peaks, and impressive feats of road engineering.

While the ultimate reward lies in the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound, the journey along the Milford Road is an awe-inspiring experience in itself. Upon reaching Milford Sound, you’ll embark on a cruise that allows you to intimately connect with the astounding natural wonders of this region. From thundering waterfalls to towering mountains and lush rainforests, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of New Zealand. Afterward, you’ll return to Queenstown, bringing an unforgettable day to a close.

• Accommodation
  Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakefront- 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Optional Activities
  Milford Sound Visit – USD 145

Today, you have the freedom to discover the charm of this picturesque lakeside town. With its soaring mountains and the awe-inspiring natural splendor of the surrounding ranges and rivers, Queenstown offers something to delight every visitor.

• Accommodation
  Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakefront- 4 Star or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

This morning, begin your journey from Queenstown, passing through the town of Cromwell, which was once a hub for gold mining and has now become known for its cultivation of stone fruits. Nestled along the shores of Lake Dunstan, Cromwell offers a scenic stop on your route. Continuing your expedition, you’ll traverse the dramatic Lindis Pass, a mountainous terrain that connects the Mackenzie Basin with Central Otago. For a good portion of the year, this region is often blanketed in snow, adding to its rugged charm. Here, snow tussock grassland prevails, creating a picturesque rolling landscape before you reach the Mackenzie region and the town of Twizel.

This area boasts some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery, from stunning turquoise lakes to towering mountains. It’s also home to the Mt Cook National Park, which includes New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki Mt Cook, and its longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier.

• Accommodation
  Distinction Mackenzie – Country Hotel or similar
• Meals Included
  Breakfast

Leaving Twizel behind, your journey takes you to Tekapo, where you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing turquoise-blue waters of Lake Tekapo. Here, against the backdrop of the Southern Alps, stands the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd. Your route then proceeds through the towns of Burkes Pass, Fairle, and Geraldine before crossing the Rakaia River. The Rakaia Bridge is a remarkable feat, as it stretches 1.8 kilometers, making it New Zealand’s longest road bridge. It spans the Rakaia River, one of Canterbury’s sizable braided rivers.

Continuing onward, you’ll cross the Canterbury Plains, passing through the outlying towns of Dunsandel and Rolleston, before ultimately reaching Christchurch, often referred to as ‘The Garden City.’ Christchurch is celebrated for its abundance of parks, gardens, and English heritage, with the tranquil Avon River meandering through the city center. Along the riverbanks, you’ll find cycling paths, and Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens provide expansive green spaces. Many visitors choose to explore the city by hopping on one of the trams, while others opt for a boat ride along the Avon. Alternatively, you can simply relax at one of the numerous cafes and restaurants along Oxford Terrace, savoring the charm of this inviting city.

• Accommodation
  Distinction Hotel or Fable Hotel- 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Christchurch Visit

Embark on the final leg of your extraordinary journey as you bid farewell to Christchurch today, setting your sights on new adventures and exciting horizons.  Farewell, New Zealand!

• Meals Included
  Breakfast

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates.

• Accommodation
  Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
• Included Activities
  Group Dinner

After breakfast, we begin to explore the magical old town of Istanbul. Stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

• Accommodation
  Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
  Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
  Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum
• Optional Activities
  Bosphorus Boat Cruise – EUR 10
• Entrance Fees
  Blue Mosque – Free
  Hagia Sophia – Free
  Topkapi Palace Museum – 750 TL

Today we sit back and relax in the coach. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. We will drive through the capital city of Ankara before we reach Cappadocia. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

• Accommodation
  Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Derinkuyu Underground City
• Optional Activities
  Turkish Bath Experience – 30 EUR
• Entrance Fees
  Derinkuyu Underground City – 300 TL

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. Tonight, get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish Night.

• Accommodation
  Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
  Sightseeing of Cavusin
  Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
  Sightseeing of Uchisar
• Optional Activities
  Turkish Night Show – 35 EUR
  Hot Air Balooning – 290 EUR
• Entrance Fees
  Goreme Open Air Museum – 480 TL

It’s time to hit the road to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. Along the way we will stop at Ihlara Valley, a unique honeycombed canyon with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period. You can relax and replay cherished moments of discovery at our overnight stay in Konya.

• Accommodation
  Dedeman Hotel – 5 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Ihlara Valley

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13^th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel towards to the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant.

• Accommodation
  Hierapark Hotel – 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa
  Mevlana Museum Visit

Get your cameras ready, as it is time to visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle and people have bathed in its pools for thousands of years. Our next stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. We will sleep overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi.

• Accommodation
  Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham – 4 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Pamukkale White Terraces
  Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
• Entrance Fees
  Pamukkale White Terraces – 700 TL
  Ephesus Ancient City – 700 TL

After breakfast we continue to Pergamum, and the ruins of the Asklepion, an ancient healing centre. We will then depart for ancient city of Troy. You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. We will stay overnight in Canakkale. You will have the evening to relax and discover the town

• Accommodation
  Kolin Hotel – 5 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast, Dinner
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Asklepion Ancient City
  Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
• Entrance Fees
  Asklepion Ancient City – 300 TL
  Troy Ancient City – 330 TL

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, we will drive back to where our adventure began, Istanbul.

• Accommodation
  Legacy Ottoman Hotel – 5 Star
• Meals Included
  Breakfast
• Included Activities
  Sightseeing of Anzac Cove
  Sightseeing of Beach Cemetery
  Sightseeing of Lone Pine
  Sightseeing of Chunuk Bair
  Sightseeing of War Trenches

Our trip will end in Istanbul after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

• Meals Included
  Breakfast