Private Tour
Available languages
336 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover New Zealand’s greatest wonders in one unforgettable journey—from glowworm caves and steaming geothermal pools to soaring glaciers, dramatic fjords, and star-filled skies. Drift through glowworm-lit caverns, walk at the foot of ancient glaciers, and stand beneath the clearest night skies on Earth.
From Rotorua’s geothermal marvels to Fiordland’s fjords, Napier’s vineyards to Kaikoura’s wild seal colonies, each day reveals a new chapter of discovery. With private transfers, boutique stays, and handpicked activities, you’ll enjoy a seamless blend of iconic highlights and hidden gems.
Whether it’s sipping wine by the sea, stargazing, or riding the legendary TranzAlpine train, New Zealand will capture your heart and take your breath away. This tour is the ultimate New Zealand story, written just for you.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Professional driver who serves as a certified tour guide
Gratuities for the driver/tour guide per person per day
Ferry tickets for inter-island travel
Hotel Accommodation
Admission fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
Private 20-seater charter bus for the entire duration of the tour
Travel Insurance
Lunch & Dinner
Transportation for Aurora hunting
Activities or attractions not listed in the itinerary
Any other expenses not specifically mentioned under "inclusions"
Domestic Flight Tickets
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Auckland (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
Arrival in Auckland: Whether you’re arriving at Auckland International Airport or already in the city, our team will be ready to welcome you. Guests can be picked up from the airport, their hotel, or any preferred location within Auckland. Hotel Check-in: Check in to your hotel, where you’ll have time to refresh and relax after your journey. Evening Stroll & Dinner: In the evening, meet your guide at the hotel or at a designated meeting point if you’re already staying in Auckland. Together, enjoy a leisurely stroll to Viaduct Harbour or the lively Britomart precinct—both renowned for their waterfront views, vibrant nightlife, and wide selection of restaurants. From fresh seafood to modern New Zealand fusion, there’s something for every taste. This is the perfect chance to soak up the city’s cosmopolitan vibe and mingle with the local atmosphere. End the evening by returning to your hotel for a good night’s rest, ready for the adventures ahead.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Rotorua (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Glowworms: After breakfast at the hotel, depart towards Waitomo. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling farmlands and charming rural landscapes. Upon arrival, step into the world-famous Glowworm Caves. Glide silently by boat under a galaxy of twinkling glowworms—an unforgettable natural wonder that feels like a starry night sky underground.
Rotorua
Rotorua: After the caves visit, continue the journey towards Rotorua. On arrival, take a short city orientation tour to discover the unique character of this geothermal town. Stroll along Lake Rotorua’s shoreline, admire the steam vents and bubbling waters that showcase the area’s volcanic activity. Afterward, enjoy your dinner at your own leisure and rest well for the adventures ahead.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Napier (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off to explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Here, marvel at vividly coloured hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and spouting geysers—one of New Zealand’s most striking geothermal landscapes.
Huka Falls
Huka Falls: Continue the journey towards Lake Taupo, where a stop at the mighty Huka Falls showcases the sheer power and beauty of cascading turquoise waters.
Napier
Napier: Travel onwards to Napier, crossing through rolling hills and fertile farmland. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the Art Deco Quarter, with its unique 1930s architecture, boutique shops, and lively cafés, or take a leisurely walk along the Marine Parade, with sweeping ocean views and fresh sea breezes.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Wellington (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Te Mata Park
Te Mata Peak: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Te Mata Peak, a spectacular lookout point rising above Hawke’s Bay. From the summit, take sweeping mountain and vineyard views - accessible either by a scenic walk or an easy drive to the top.
Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria: Continue the journey south towards Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes of rolling hills and coastal scenery. Upon arrival, head to the Mount Victoria Lookout, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the harbour, city, and surrounding hills.
Wellington
Wellington: Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Wellington at your own pace—perhaps a stroll along the lively waterfront, browsing boutique shops, or visiting one of the city’s renowned museums and galleries. Later, check in at your hotel and settle in for a comfortable evening in the capital city.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kaikōura (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Picton
Picton: After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the ferry terminal for your journey across the Cook Strait. The Interisland ferry ride offers stunning views of Wellington Harbour, the rugged coastline, and the tranquil waters of the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton. Relax on board and enjoy the scenery during this iconic crossing between New Zealand’s North and South Islands.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura: Upon arrival in Picton, continue south along the spectacular coastal highway to Kaikoura. This scenic drive showcases dramatic ocean views on one side and towering mountains on the other, making it one of the country’s most picturesque routes. On arrival, visit the Kaikoura Seal Colony, home to thousands of New Zealand fur seals. Dinner will be with fresh seafood being a local specialty for those who wish to try it.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Christchurch (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Akaroa
Akaroa: After breakfast at the hotel, travel to the charming French-inspired town of Akaroa. Nestled on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is known for its European heritage, stunning harbour views, and relaxed atmosphere. Here, visit Shamarra Alpaca Farm, one of the region’s most renowned alpaca farms. Enjoy the chance to feed and gently interact with these friendly animals, learn about their care, and admire their soft fleece products at the farm shop. From the hillside, take sweeping views over Akaroa Harbour, a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
Christchurch
Christchurch: After lunch at your own leisure, continue the journey to Christchurch, the “Garden City.” On arrival, explore highlights such as the tranquil Avon River and Bridge of Remembrance, the lush Botanic Gardens, and the elegant Mona Vale Estate. These landmarks showcase both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the city. Spend the evening at Riverside Market, a lively hub of eateries and boutique stalls.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Fox Glacier (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
TranzAlpine Train
TranzAlpine Train: After breakfast, set out for Arthur’s Pass, a dramatic alpine region in the heart of the Southern Alps. Here, board the world-famous TranzAlpine Train, one of the most scenic rail journeys on earth. As the train winds its way across snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and lush beech forests, soak in ever-changing landscapes through wide panoramic windows—an unforgettable highlight of New Zealand’s South Island.
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
Pancake Rocks: Arrive on the West Coast and enjoy lunch before travelling to the rugged coastline of Punakaiki. Visit the iconic Pancake Rocks, a fascinating limestone formation sculpted by wind and waves, where powerful blowholes send seawater dramatically skyward. Continue south through wild coastal scenery and rainforests as you make your way towards the glacier region.
Franz Josef
Franz Josef: Arrive in the alpine village of Franz Josef, known for its dramatic ice formations, towering pinnacles, and deep crevasses. Visitors often enjoy scenic walks through the valley floor, offering stunning views of the glacier face. For those seeking adventure, guided hikes and scenic helicopter flights provide the chance to step onto the ice itself. Nearby, the Glacier Hot Pools offer a relaxing way to unwind amidst native bush.
Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier: Just a short drive from Franz Josef, Fox Glacier offers a slightly gentler landscape but equally breathtaking beauty. It is also famous for its proximity to Lake Matheson, often called the “Mirror Lake,” where reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman create postcard-perfect views. Walking trails around the glacier and the surrounding rainforest provide opportunities to immerse in both alpine and coastal scenery.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Queenstown (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Fox Glacier Valley Walk
Glacier Valley Walk: After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a Glacier Valley Walk at Fox Glacier. This easy-to-moderate hike allows you to explore the glacier’s striking valley, surrounded by rugged mountains, lush rainforest, and icy formations. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the unique alpine environment and take memorable photos.
Wanaka
Wanaka: Continue your journey through the stunning landscapes of the South Island towards Wanaka, a picturesque lakeside town. Stroll along the shores of Lake Wanaka, often described as a hidden paradise, and enjoy the combination of fresh mountain air, tranquil waters, and charming local cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. Take some time to relax and soak in the serene scenery.
Queenstown
Queenstown: Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. On arrival, visit Lake Wakatipu, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakefront or simply admire the dramatic backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Queenstown (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Queenstown Hill
Skyline Gondola: After breakfast at the hotel, head to a charming fruit-picking town near Queenstown. Depending on the season, enjoy picking fresh strawberries or cherries and experience the joy of tasting fruit straight from the farm—a fun and interactive way to connect with the local countryside. Next, ride the Skyline Gondola up to the hilltop for breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range. Take some time to explore the summit area, enjoy the scenery, and snap photos of this spectacular alpine landscape.
Lake Wakatipu
TSS Earnslaw: Continue the adventure with a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Onboard, soak in stunning lake and mountain vistas. At the farm, experience a traditional high-country farm show, watch sheepdog demonstrations, and learn about local farming heritage before returning by cruise to Queenstown.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Te Anau (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Milford Sound
Milford Sound: After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Queenstown and travel through the stunning Fiordland National Park, passing picturesque mountains, rivers, and stretches of native forest on the way to Milford Sound, often described as the "eighth wonder of the world". Milford Scenic Cruise: Embark on a Milford Sound Scenic Cruise, where you will glide past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense rainforest. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals, penguins, and dolphins in their natural habitat. A buffet-style lunch is available on the cruise for your convenience. This is a truly immersive way to experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic fjords.
Te Anau
Te Anau: After the cruise, continue the scenic drive to Te Anau, a charming lakeside town often called the gateway to Fiordland.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Invercargill (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Lake Te Anau
Te Anau: After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed city tour of Te Anau, a charming town nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau. Stroll along the tranquil Lake Te Anau waterfront and admire the reflections of surrounding mountains on its calm waters. Explore the town center, where charming boutiques, local cafés, and artisan shops offer a taste of Southland culture.
Invercargill
Invercargill: After lunch, depart for Invercargill, traveling through the picturesque Southland countryside with rolling hills, farmland, and coastal vistas. On arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay and take some time to settle in.
Southern Scenic Route
Southern Lights (Aurora Australis): After dinner, for those interested, join an optional Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) viewing experience. Recommended spots include Oreti Beach or Bluff Hill Lookout. Remember to dress warmly and bring a camera tripod if you wish to capture the spectacular night sky. Weather and aurora activity (KP index) will determine the best viewing conditions.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Invercargill (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Invercargill
Invercargill City Tour: After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed morning of free activities. You may choose to take a gentle stroll through Queen’s Park, a beautifully landscaped urban park featuring ornamental gardens, lakes, and native trees. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy some quiet time in the heart of Invercargill.
Bluff Hill
Bluff: After lunch, depart for Bluff, New Zealand’s southernmost town. Visit Stirling Point and Bluff Hill Lookout, where sweeping views of the coastline, Foveaux Strait, and surrounding countryside offer excellent photo opportunities. Learn about Bluff’s maritime history and the local oyster industry, giving a taste of the region’s unique southern charm.
Southern Scenic Route
Stargazing: For the evening’s activity, enjoy a guided stargazing experience under the pristine southern skies. Southland’s low light pollution makes it an ideal place to observe constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. Bring warm clothing and your camera for a magical night connecting with the southern hemisphere’s night sky.
Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Tekapo (Optional: an upgrade to a 5-star hotel)
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
Mount Cook: After breakfast at the hotel, depart Invercargill and travel north through the Southland countryside via Lumsden. Continue past Cromwell and cross the dramatic Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine routes. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Alps with opportunities to pause for short breaks and photos of the rugged landscapes.
Mt. Cook Village
Mount Cook Village: Arrive at Mount Cook Village, where you can take a short walk to admire the towering peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine scenery. After lunch, continue your journey to Lake Tekapo, a serene turquoise lake framed by mountains. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, enjoy views of distant Mount Cook from the lakefront, and take time to stroll along the shore. Nearby Lake Pukaki also offers spectacular viewpoints for photography and reflection.
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo: In the evening, those interested can join an optional stargazing experience. Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, offering some of the clearest night skies in the world—perfect for observing constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. Please note that weather and availability will determine the experience.
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Hotel Breakfast
Christchurch
Christchurch: After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Christchurch, taking in the scenic South Island landscapes one last time. Enjoy views of rolling countryside, rivers, and mountains as you make your way to the city. Our tour officially concludes in Christchurch. For travelers departing from Christchurch International Airport, we will arrange comfortable transfers to ensure a smooth journey to the airport. This marks the end of your New Zealand adventure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and the warm Kiwi hospitality you experienced along the way.
4 Star Hotel
No admission fees: Addmission fees for attractions are not included.
Pickup included
4 Star Hotels
Admission fees: Admission fees for attractions per itinerary are included
Pickup included
5 Star Hotel
Admission fees: Admission fees for attractions per itinerary are included.
Pickup included
Operated by Chrysalis Tours