DAY 1 : ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH

Arrival and pick up your rental vehicle. Drive to your accommodation.
Depending on your flight arrival time, explore Christchurch city on your own pace.
City Tram is available for hop on and hop off, which make it so much easier to see the CBD area. Alternatively, walking around is quite easy too.
Overnight: Ashley Hotel Christchurch
The Ashley Hotel Christchurch is a newly refurbished, 45-room hotel that delivers a charming, relaxed and convenient experience. The Ashley Hotel is located in Riccarton, within walking distance of Hagley Park, shopping malls, dozens of restaurants and cafés, Christchurch Hospital, the train station and plenty of other Christchurch attractions.
Hotel offer several different Christchurch hotel room types, perfect whether you are visiting for business, holiday or as part of a group. For your convenience, The Ashley Hotel in Christchurch also has disabled facilities.
Whatever your reason for visiting Christchurch, enjoy it in comfort and style at The Ashley Hotel Christchurch.

Christchurch
Despite the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, Christchurch was placed second on The New York Times’ list of 52 ‘Places to Go’ in 2014. This speaks volumes of the spirit of this city and its people, whose collective creativity has seen a number of restorative art projects developed on the empty lots and buildings the disasters left behind. The city also offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot-air ballooning and whale and dolphin watching. Or stroll around the Botanic Gardens.

DAY 2 : Mount Cook National Park

Drive from the ‘most English City outside England’ through New Zealand’s most intensive cropping district, the Canterbury Plains. After a while you will reach the McKenzie Country Region, a high-country basin with steppe character, with native New Zealand tussock grasses blowing in the wind as far as the eye can see. There, you will visit the glacial Lake Tekapo and enter the Southern Alps.
On the way to Mt. Cook, in Maori called ‘Aorangi’ (‘cloud-piercer’), there might be an opportunity for a short walk to give you a first impression of this imposing region. The alpine plants are not only of great botanical interest, but also delightful in their unique diversity of form.

Mount Cook National Park
Also known as Aoraki National Park, this 700 square kilometre reserve is home to 19 mountains that tower over 3000m, including Australasia’s highest peak – the 3754m high Mt. Aoraki. The incredible landscape forms part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area and can be explored by mountain climbing, hiking, skiing and even scenic flight tours. Not to be missed is the Tasman glacier; at 27km long and 3km wide, this is the country’s largest glacier – though in recent years it has unfortunately been melting fast.

Optional activities:

– The Helicopter Line Mount Cook
The Helicopter Line is New Zealand’s leading helicopter operating company. Formed in 1986 when 3 separate helicopter companies combined, The Helicopter Line has grown to become the largest Kiwi owned Helicopter Company in New Zealand and the largest provider of scenic flights in the country.
Aoraki/Mount Cook dominates the Southern Alps mountain range that divides New Zealand’s South Island. The Helicopter Line’s Mount Cook base operates from Glentanner Park, situated only 15 minutes drive from the Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and the Hermitage Hotel and 20 minutes along State Highway 80 after turning off State Highway 8 between Christchurch and Queenstown. The Helicopter Line also operates from Pukaki Airport, Twizel alongside SH8 between Queenstown and Christchurch.

– Glacier Explorers Aoraki Mt Cook
An amazing encounter with Tasman Glacier and its terminal lake. Depart from The Hermitage Hotel. The bus will take you to the Tasman Valley, followed by a 30 minute alpine walk through the moraine and National Park. Board your custom built MAC boat, and enjoy the ever changing scenery, view the Tasman Glacier ice face from a safe distance and icebergs of all shapes and sizes with the opportunity to touch and taste the 300-500 year old ice crystals.

DAY 3 : Mount Cook National Park

Today, you might want to set off on a half-day walk in the alpine Hooker Valley. There will also be choice of short walks in the National Park with different grades of difficulty. Here, the famous Mt. Cook Lily, the world’s largest buttercup, blooms everywhere in early summer. Interspersed are the giant yellow-gold flower heads of the Spaniard (or Spear grass), a member of the carrot family of plants, with its stiff spiny leaves. In good weather you’ll have a breathtaking view of the snow-covered mountain peaks that rise up beside the Hooker Valley.

DAY 4 : Dunedin

Leading from the highest parts of the Southern Alps to the South Island’s East Coast. There, you will stop at the Moeraki Boulders, large spherical boulders cast on to the beach, which fascinate many visitors.
In the afternoon, you will view the Royal Albatrosses from the world’s only mainland albatross colony, followed by a visit to a conservationist on his farm. He has established a reserve to protect the little blue Penguin, one of the most endangered species of penguin in the world.

Activities
-Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre provides wildlife and cultural tours of Taiaroa Head where you can visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross, the historic Fort Taiaroa and see the Little Blue Penguin colony at Pilots Beach. People come from all over the world to enjoy the spectacular views on the Otago Peninsula and together with its 20 km long harbour, is the home of an abundance of magnificent world famous wildlife.

Dunedin
Situated on tree-covered hills overlooking the spectacular Otago Harbour and Peninsula, Dunedin (Celtic for Edinburgh) is New Zealand’s largest city geographically. But there’s no urban sprawl here; instead you’ll find impressive historic architecture, parks, and natural beauty in abundance. You’ll want to visit Larnach Castle (high tea is served at 3pm every day); Speight’s Brewery for tours, tastings and hearty meals; St Paul’s Cathedral; and the Ice Stadium to watch a game or two of curling. Beyond the city limits you’ll find some gems, too, including the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, and the seaside settlements of Karitane and Port Chalmers.

DAY 5 : Lake Te Anau

Take some time to explore Dunedin city–the Victorian style architecture,steepest street in the world–Boldwin street, local museum displaying his history and culture.
Then take off to your next destination-Te Anau in Fiordland, one of New Zealand’s biggest and most unexploited national parks.
Hardly any other landscape represents wilderness as truly as Fiordland. In the western part, 14 fjords advance like long drawn-out water hooks deeply into the forests of a cliffy Alpine scenery. Not far from that snow covered mountain peaks rise just above from grassland up to 2700m.

Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau is located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island and is the second largest lake in the county, covering an area of 344 square kilometres. Once home to Maori tribes, the lake’s shores meet the forest covered mountains of Fiordland National Park in the west and rolling hills in the east. Activities in the area include fishing, deer hunting, water sports, and the chance to explore two of the country’s best known hiking trails; the Milford Track and the Kepler Track.

DAY 6 : Queenstown

Today, a major highlight is scheduled for the tour. From Te Anau, the gate to Milford Sound, you will start your drive along the spectacular Milford Road. At Homer tunnel you can see the cheeky Keas, the only mountain parrots in the world.
Cast off for the Nature Cruise in Milford Sound and float out almost to the Tasman Sea. Enjoy the romantic scenery of wilderness, which is determined by almost vertical mountain walls like the Mitre Peak.
Back through Te Anau, you will head towards the ‘St. Moritz of the South Pacific’, Queenstown. In the evening you can also experience something of Queenstown’s nightlife. Take a gondola ride to Bob’s Peak to enjoy the panoramic view of whole Queenstown in the nightlight. Have a sumptuous buffet dinner up there in the restaurant with spectacular views.
Activities
Real Journeys – Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Skyline Queenstown

Real Journeys – Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Cruise the length of the fiord, learn about the history of the region and benefit from the knowledge of specialist nature guides. Experience the spray of a waterfall, cruising close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and in season the rare Fiordland crested penguins.
The Nature Cruises have a flexible, extended itinerary which affords guests plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take in the highlights. The experienced skippers tailor the cruise route on the day, depending on the weather and wildlife sightings to ensure guests get to see the best that Milford Sound has to offer. Informative, participation orientated and relaxed, a Nature Cruise is the ideal way to experience Milford Sound to the fullest.
Skyline Queenstown
Located an easy five minute walk from central Queenstown, Skyline Queenstown offers awe-inspiring views of the region and an abundance of entertainment and adventure for the whole family. Take the journey on our iconic Gondola up Bob’s Peak to enjoy award winning cuisine in the scenic Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, Kiwi Haka Maori culture performances and the Skyline Luge thrilling downhill ride!
Skyline also offers access to scenic Queenstown activities such as walking tracks in the Ben Lomond Reserve, mountain bike trails in the Queenstown Bike Park and breath taking views from our viewing deck and market kitchen cafe, along with the stargazing tour.

Queenstown
Queenstown is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and has stunning views of the surrounding alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s adventure capitals, it offers visitors a wide selection of adrenaline-boosting activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip lining, skiing and skydiving. Queenstown also has a lively bar and restaurant scene, and for those who prefer the quieter things in life there are vineyards, golf courses, spas and wellness centres.

DAY 7 : Queenstown

Continue to explore more of the beauty of Queenstown, Stroll along the Lake Wakatipu or wander through some scenic walks.
Leave Queenstown around mid-day, drive into Aspiring National Park. There are many walks in Aspiring National Park to suit all fitness levels. Overnight in Wanaka.

DAY 8 : Lake Wanaka

The route leads alongside the glacial lakes Wanaka and Hawea, surrounded by towering snowy peaks. You continue and cross the Haast Pass, the main climatic and catchment divide of the Southern Alps. If you like, there will be an opportunity for a short walk. Entering Westland National Park, you might wabnt to set off on a two-hour nature- trek through dense rainforest. Finally reaching the wild Tasman Sea, you might be able to spot Fiordland Crested Penguins, depending on the season. Overnight in a tiny township near the glaciers.

Lake Wanaka
Dubbed the world’s first “lifestyle reserve” by the locals, Lake Wanaka has something of interest for every sort of visitor. The lake itself offers great fishing, boating and even gold-panning opportunities, while the neighbouring Mt. Aspiring National Park is home to glaciers, mountains and river valleys waiting to be explored. Wanaka, one of the fastest growing towns in New Zealand, lies on the shores of the lake and attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and activities such as horse riding, golfing, flight seeing and air shows.

DAY 9 : Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier is the largest of the mighty West Coast glaciers. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are one of the few ones on earth whose glacier tongues reach down to the rim of the rain forest. Here, you’ll go on a guided glacier walk (with suitable footwear and walking gear provided). The local guide will lead you beside the riverbed to a track, which leads to the glacier. From high on the track, you can enjoy fantastic views down on to the ice. You’ll have ample time to appreciate the views and surroundings before returning via the same route. An option would be a helicopter flight to see the glacier from above.

Activities
Fox Trail Terminal Face Walk
This is an informative and leisurely trip to the dynamic face of the glacier which is suitable for children from 5 years. It is here that the Fox River emerges from the ice and where ice collapses are often heard and seen. This trip is for people with limited time or for those who would find the walks onto the glacier too strenuous. Although you will not walk on the glacier your guide will take you to the final resting place of the ice that has traveled 12 kilometers from the base of the Southern Alps, all the way to the river valley floor. Your guide may take you closer to the ice than the unguided public (if it is safe to do so at the time) and you will have the opportunity to learn the role of the Fox Glacier in shaping its environment. This two hour trip is reasonably easy going. About one and a half hours is spent walking over gentle terrain, up the left hand side of a river valley floor, at a speed that almost anyone can manage. There is a strong focus on providing you with quality interpretation so you can learn about the glacier and the surrounding environment.

Optional:
The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier
The Helicopter Line is New Zealand’s leading helicopter operating company. Formed in 1986 when 3 separate helicopter companies combined, The Helicopter Line has grown to become the largest Kiwi owned Helicopter Company in New Zealand and the largest provider of scenic flights in the country. The rugged West Coast of the South Island is an untamed beauty where the mountains meet the Tasman Sea and where rainforests give way to Glaciers. Nowhere else in the world can glaciers be found in such a dramatic setting, in such close proximity to the Sea, making Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers truly unique. The Helicopter Line operates from both Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier townships with multiple flight options available from each location.

DAY 10 : Greymouth

Continue your journey along the West Coast and reach the historic gold-mining area. The West Coast is also well known for its Greenstone sources. In Hokitika this precious stone is processed and changed into beautiful pieces of jewellery.
Near Greymouth there will be the opportunity of a walk in the coastal rainforest (optional).

Greymouth
As its name suggests, this historical town lies at the mouth of the Grey River. The town is well geared for travellers, offering all the necessary services and the odd tourist attraction, the most famous of which is Shantytown, a re-created 19th-century gold-mining town surrounded by an impressive native forest. Greymouth’s wide avenues are strewn with galleries specialising in pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade. Spend a day admiring these exquisite greenstone carvings for which this town is famous, take a tour of one of the town’s impressive local breweries, or indulge in some excellent trout fishing on the peaceful banks of the stunning Lake Brunner. Greymouth caters for a broad range of interests. Those in search of adrenaline pumping adventure will be well sated, but so too will those looking for a quiet, relaxing day out in a magnificent natural landscape. There really is a little bit of everything for everyone in Greymouth!

DAY 11 : Nelson

After breakfast, today’s route will take you further north towards the impressive pancake rocks and then to the coastal town of Westport.
Leave the rugged, green and wild West Coast, that was once one of the busiest and richest regions of nineteenth-century New Zealand, when gold drew prospectors from all over the world. Crossing the spectacular Buller Gorge, you will reach the northern coast of the South Island and continue to Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest town.

Here you can visit World of Wearable Art Museum, Vintage car collection.

Nelson
Over 170 years old, Nelson is New Zealand’s oldest city and has recently made a name for itself as a thriving cultural centre. The city is home to a large number of artists and creatives who are celebrated during an array of popular events. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine, Nelson is also considered the country’s sunniest city, and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply taking in the superb views of the Tasman Bay.

DAY 12 : Nelson

Early in the morning, you’ll set off on a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park, with its golden bays and beaches. First, a boat trip will take you past the many bays and peninsulas of the Park. Afterwards, you’ll walk along the bays and through native bush back to the eastern park entrance, and also have the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the sea. This walk, the Abel Tasman Track, is one of New Zealand’s most popular.

DAY 13 : Wellington

A scenic drive along the coast brings you to Pelorus Bridge. After a walk in this area, you carry on past the beautiful drowned river valleys “Marlborough Sounds” to finally arrive in the small harbour town of Picton. From there the comfortable Interislander ferry will take you across Cook Strait to the North Island.

Activities
Interislander Ferry (tickets for foot pax only)

Wellington
Located on the south-western tip of North Island on the Cook Strait, Wellington is the constitutional and cultural capital of New Zealand – dubbed ‘the coolest little capital in the world’. With its diverse architecture, world-class museums, cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants, Wellington is a popular destination for both local and international travellers. Due to its location in the ‘Roaring Forties’ the city experiences its fair share of wind and as a result, sailing is a popular activity here – with charters offering the visitors the experience of a relaxed cruise with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding bays.

DAY 14 : Kapiti Coast

Today, on a day trip, you will explore a bird island sanctuary, situated off the west coast about 50 km north of Wellington. In the morning, you will travel by boat to the highly protected and mammal-free Kapiti Island. Here you can watch birds such as the kaka (a New Zealand native parrot), the rare takahe (a large native rail species, now almost entirely absent from the mainland), the weka and other endemic birds. In good weather, you’ll be able to enjoy fabulous views of the South Island and Kapiti Coast from a viewpoint high on the island.
Return to Kapiti Coast in the afternoon.

Activities
Kapiti Island Nature Tour
Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand’s oldest nature reserves, and a place rich in human history. Kapiti Island Nature Tours provides a memorable experience, surrounded by many of New Zealand’s beautiful and endangered species. Kapiti Island can be visited for a day tour, or an overnight stay at the lodge to experience all the island has to offer. Kapiti Island Nature Tours offers the only chance to spend the night on Kapiti and hear the stories of the island.

Kapiti Coast
Stretching across the stunning coastline of the south-west side of New Zealand’s North Island, the Kapiti Coast is best known for its internationally renowned bird and wildlife sanctuary, Kapiti Island, located only 5kms from the coast of Paraparaumu. The area boasts the lush, mountainous Tararua Forest Park as well as some wonderfully spacious and uncrowded beaches, popular with holidaymakers and fishing enthusiasts from the nearby capital city of Wellington. The coastline was formerly known as The Golden Coast and is home to the charming little towns of Te Horo, Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati Beach and Raumati South. The Kapiti Coast is an ideal location for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat in a spectacularly scenic environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

DAY 15 : Tongariro National Park

You can take a walk along the beach before we head through a landscape of green pasture and farm districts on our way to the volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park. The area offers a wide variety of scenery, from open steppe country in the south-east to dense forest and ferns in the south-west. You will have magnificent views of all three volcanoes in the Park.

Tongariro National Park
Tongariro is the oldest national park in New Zealand, located in the heart of North Island. It encompasses three active volcanoes – Mount Ngauruhoe, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ruapehu (one of the most active volcanos in the world) – that have great significance to the local Maori people. The raw beauty of the environment draws a high number of tourists, and is also the reason much of the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy was filmed here. There are activities to be enjoyed by everyone here, from scenic cruises to white water-rafting, hiking, rock climbing and skiing in winter.

DAY 16 : Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro National Park has one the most breathtaking sceneries of all New Zealand. Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of New Zealand’s most popular treks, owing to the diverse, at times moon-like landscapes encountered, with spectacular views. A climb up Mt. Tongariro (1,968 m) offers breathtaking views over to the neighbouring volcanoes Mt. Ngauruhoe (2,291 m) and Mt. Ruapehu (2,797 m). The track crosses several craters, passing by fumaroles and hot springs, and also the luminous-turquoise Emerald Lakes.
It is possible to undertake an easier walk in the closer vicinity. Alternatively, the best way to see the spectacular mountain view is to take a scenic flight flying above them.

Optional
Scenic flights over mountains

DAY 17 : Rotorua

Today you will drive to Rotorua, the sulphur town with its smelly air! But you get used to it after a while.
Rotorua is the best place to see geothermal activities. Wonder through Wai-O-Tapu Themal Wonderland where you will multicoloured silica terraces and bubbling mud pools.
In the afternoon, take a lake cruise in Waimangu Valley and explore more volcanic activities in the lake.
In the evening, you might want to bath in hot mineral pools, relax your tied legs or enjoy a massage.

Activities:
– Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Thousands of years in the making and nestled within a natural bush setting, walks through this unique volcanic area take between 30 and 75 minutes. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily to heights of up to 20 metres. Features include the world famous Champagne Pool and Primrose Terrace as well as hot springs, steaming ground, expansive vistas and huge volcanic craters. The constant bubbling and erupting of the Mud Pool add to your experience at New Zealand’s most colourful volcanic attraction.

– Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is Rotorua’s premier tourist attraction and a ‘must do’ eco-experience when you visit Rotorua. The exciting thermal attraction and sightseeing tours include unique ecology, rare botany and fascinating geothermal features such as steaming volcanic crater lakes. A protected scenic reserve and wildlife refuge, Waimangu Volcanic Valley geothermal park encompasses beautiful Lake Rotomahana and is set in pristine New Zealand bush. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is just 20 minutes south of Rotorua and 40 minutes north of Taupo. Self-guided eco-tours and walks through this geothermal park are offered, from a 45 minute walk to an extended 4 hours of discovery through this amazing Valley.

Optional
Polynesian Spa
Polynesian Spa is New Zealand’s leading international day spa, providing a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. In a picturesque, tranquil setting overlooking Lake Rotorua, visitors can enjoy a wonderful fusion of relaxing hot spring pool bathing, sumptuous spa and massage therapies and picturesque lake views.
Polynesian Spa is a modern spa complex offering hot mineral bathing in 26 bathing pools including both public and private pools, a family spa, a luxury spa and spa therapies.

DAY 18 : Rotorua

During the day explore Rotorua in your own pace. Take a walk in the Redwood Forest; visit Government garden and local museum. Explore local wildlife and animals.
In the evening, visit one of the most authentic Maori village, experience Maori culture and taste Hangi meal cooked by earth oven.

Activities
– Mitai Maori Village
Mitai Maori Village is situated a 5 minute drive from the centre of town in Rotorua. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and don’t miss the only opportunity in the Rotorua area to see glow worms in their natural habitat. Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. The Mitai family is proud to have created a sacred and spiritual place that offers an indigenous cultural experience like no other.

DAY 19 : Auckland

Through the lush forests and farmlands of the King Country, you will journey north towards the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. These caves are lit by thousands of glowworms clinging to the cave walls.
Along the district’s east coast, you will arrive in the country’s largest city, Auckland. Here, you’ll spend the final evening together in a restaurant, where there will surely be much to talk and reminisce about, providing a fitting end to the tour.

Activities
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. The glow worm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of the tiny creatures radiate unmistakable luminescent light as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves’ historical and geological significance. Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveler. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 120 years of cultural and natural history.

DAY 20 : Auckland - Departure Day

Return your rental car. Hope you enjoyed your trip in New Zealand, and wish you a safe onwards journey.