The Long White Cloud

Auckland
Loading...
See the wonders of New Zealand on this 19-day guided tour. Explore the Southern Alps and see Franz Josef Glacier up close with a Local Expert. On your way to Queenstown, stop by idyllic Arrowtown, where you can choose to take a scenic bike ride along its river, or join a boutique wine tour. Journey through rainforests and meadows to Milford Sound; here, board a catamaran and sail past towering cliffs and gushing waterfalls. See spectacular volcanic craters at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, then travel to Rotorua for a Māori Hāngī feast — a flavourful meal cooked underground with geothermal steam. Descend the caves of Waitomo during a exclusive guided experience: see the caverns illuminated by the bioluminescent species. Toast to your travels at a luxurious dinner with a former New Zealand All Black rugby player.The Activity Level of this tour is Leisurely, meaning there is 1 to 2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces with some stairs.

Departure dates

From 02/12/2024 to 18/04/2025

What's included

Highlights.
16 Breakfast (B)10 Dinner (D)2 Lunch (L)Choose between two carefully selected activitiesQueenstown: Ride the scenic Lake trail, visit hidden gems of the area and learn local history.
Queenstown: Embark on a boutique wine tasting tour in the heart of the Central Otago wine region.
Choose between two carefully selected activitiesWellington: Discover the stunning waterfront and the hidden laneways in the bohemian area of the heritage Cuba Street precinct.
Once dimly lit back alleys, these newly rejuvenated laneways are now home to some of the country’s funkiest bars, boutiques, and breweries.
Admire panoramic views of the city from the Wellington cable car.
Wellington: Learn more about native flora and fauna on a guided walk through Otari Wiltons Bush, the only botanic garden in New Zealand, dedicated to native plants.
 The walk starts at the ‘Waharoa’ and heads through the Fernery and then down to the creek, where you are likely to spot some Tuna.
It’s also a haven for native birds including the Kereru and Tui.
A highlight of the walk is a Rimu tree estimated to be over 800 years old.
:  Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey.
From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
: In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
: Included at all hotels.
: Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
: Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
: On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
​: Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi.
And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
: Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold.
Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Dunedin: Step into Parcels Restaurant at the Distinction Dunedin and taste their exquisite modern twist on traditional local dishes.
Sip delicious wines as you look across to the First Church of Otago from the old post office building which houses the hotel.
Hawke's Bay: Indulge in an intimate dinner with wine pairing at the award-winning restaurant of Craggy Range Winery.
Feast on local produce as you sit in the shade of Te Mata Peak and drink wines from one of the region’s world-famous vineyards.
Rotorua: Come together for a hearty and delicious meal warmed by the earth itself.
Experience a uniquely prepared Hāngī feast, cooked traditionally in a pit oven using geothermal steam at Te Pā Tū.
Witness a captivating live cultural performance as you dine.
Auckland: Raise a glass to your unforgettable journey as you enjoy your Celebration Dinner with a former member of the All Blacks rugby team.
Hear stories of the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport.
Franz Josef: Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a five-star haven of relaxation and impeccable luxury.
With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Hawke's Bay: Porters Boutique Hotel is a privately owned, boutique hotel that delivers a luxurious experience.
Elegantly appointed guest rooms are fitted with plush, classic furnishings and local artwork, all moments away from the charming village of Havelock North.
Rotorua: Join Whirinaki Forest Footsteps, a guided eco-tour into the heart of the ancient Whirinaki Rainforest.
Rotorua: Meet the kiwi at National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa as you are invited to step behind-the-scenes at a working nursery and hatchery for New Zealand’s intriguing national bird.
Seek out skinks, geckos, and incredible trout amidst the thick foliage of the park.
This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to fund the Hatchery and directly contribute to kiwi conservation.
The hatchery has grown to become the largest and most successful kiwi hatching facility in the world, successfully incubating and hatching brown kiwi eggs, helping the North Island population considerably.
Christchurch: Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine.
Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.
Hokitika: Visit the coastal town of Hokitika, where you’ll find stunning scenery and a cool, arty vibe.
Hear about its rich history, from the discovery of New Zealand jade through the many tales from the gold rush in the 1860s.
Franz Josef: Experience the mighty natural wonder of the Franz Josef Glacier and what the ice age must have felt like.
The sheer enormity of these giant ice puzzles will leave you spellbound as you explore the area with your Local Expert.
Makarora: Visit Makarora, a great base point to explore the beauty of the Southern Alps.
Your Travel Concierge will take you on an orientation of the town where you can admire remarkable scenery and hear more about its history.
Haast River: Enjoy the unique blend of thrilling speed and calm comfort on a Haast River jet boat safari.
Zip past untouched forests and snow-capped mountains in your fully enclosed cabin while you hear beguiling tales of the wilderness communities of the valley.
Milford Sound: Immerse yourself in nature with a guided walk along a stunning section of Milford Track, one of the most breathtaking walks in the world.
Learn about its wildlife and heritage while you traverse beach forest and bubbling rivers as you pass along its route.
Fiordland National Park: Embark on a serene cruise on Lake Manapouri where you can marvel at plummeting waterfalls and see countless coves and beaches dotted along its shore.
See the magnificent scenery of the Fiordland National Park with its forest-clad mountains and islands.
Dunedin: Sample exquisite botanical spirits made from surplus bread and bakery products in an effort to reduce landfill waste.
Witness how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell, do it as they take you through the process of turning bread into spirits.
Christchurch: Explore the dynamic city of Christchurch and learn how the city has reinvented itself in the past decade.
See how the unique Cardboard Cathedral and Container Mall juxtapose with the older landmarks of Canterbury Museum and New Regent Street.
Queen Charlotte Sound: Cruise along Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Straight as you pass from South Island to North to begin the next leg of your incredible journey.
See the coves, bays and lush green forests rising from the tranquil waters as you pass.
Wellington: Familiarise yourself with the landmarks of Wellington on a city orientation tour.
Discover the highlights of New Zealand’s capital from Old St Paul’s wooden cathedral and the Parliament Buildings through vibrant and colourful Cuba Street to Mount Victoria and the scenic waterfront.
Hawke's Bay: Ease yourself into the day at your own pace with a morning at leisure in Hawke’s Bay.
Grab an artisan coffee at a local cafe, stroll about the Village Green, wander Keirunga Gardens, or pop into some of the charming boutiques.
Napier: Climb into a luxury vintage car with a discerning local guide for your personal tour of Napier.
Uncover the highlights of this world-famous town’s 140 art deco buildings and sculptures from the comfort of your luxurious vehicle.
Huka Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature at Huka Falls where nearly a quarter of a million litres of thundering water per second are funnelled from Lake Taupō and dropped eleven metres into the Waikato River below.
Rotorua: Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal system, formed after the eruption of Mt.
Tarawera in 1886.
Discover the world’s largest hot spring, volcanic crater lakes and the most incredible flora and fauna that have been untouched by man.
Rotorua: Stand eye to eye with giant redwoods on the Redwoods Treewalk.
Immerse yourself in the serene majesty of these 118-year-old trees from your 20-metre high perspective.
Cross swing bridges and platforms on your elevated path through Whakarewarewa Forest.
Auckland: Discover the landmarks of New Zealand’s largest city on your afternoon tour.
See the diversity of the city from bustling Queen Street and the rejuvenated Viaduct harbour to the historic buildings around the city’s university and the striking Auckland harbour Bridge.
Waitomo Cave: Enter the subterranean Waitomo Cave where you’ll be guided through the extensive network and meet the local residents, glow worms.
View these fascinating glowing creatures as you glide quietly on a private tour by boat through the underground cave.
Queenstown: Ride the scenic Lake trail, visit hidden gems of the area and learn local history.
Queenstown: Embark on a boutique wine tasting tour in the heart of the Central Otago wine region.
Wellington: Discover the stunning waterfront and the hidden laneways in the bohemian area of the heritage Cuba Street precinct.
Once dimly lit back alleys, these newly rejuvenated laneways are now home to some of the country’s funkiest bars, boutiques, and breweries.
Admire panoramic views of the city from the Wellington cable car.
Wellington: Learn more about native flora and fauna on a guided walk through Otari Wiltons Bush, the only botanic garden in New Zealand, dedicated to native plants.
 The walk starts at the ‘Waharoa’ and heads through the Fernery and then down to the creek, where you are likely to spot some Tuna.
It’s also a haven for native birds including the Kereru and Tui.
A highlight of the walk is a Rimu tree estimated to be over 800 years old.
.

Itinerary / more information

  • Day 1 Your New Zealand luxury tour begins by private car to your boutique hotel located in the heart of Christchurch and just minutes from North Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Pay a visit to the blooms at the Botanic Gardens or ride the Christchurch Tram before meeting your Travel Concierge where you'll raise a glass to a grand journey.
  • Day 2 Embark on one of the world's greatest scenic railway journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train to the small village of Arthur's Pass. In Franz Josef, your eco-friendly retreat nestled in the wilderness welcomes.
  • Day 3 Explore Franz Josef, where a Local Expert reveals the glacier's impressive history.
  • Day 4 Cruise down the Haast River in a jet boat basking in the beauty of the Te W?hipounamu World Heritage Area. Visit the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown before arriving at your hotel in Queenstown, offering expansive views across Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
  • Day 5 Take a scenic bike ride on the Arrow River Trail or sample the Central Otago region's best Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc on a boutique wine tour.
  • Day 6 Queenstown's adventure culture is yours to experience. Take a Locally Available Experience jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River, or whitewater raft down the Kawarau River. In the evening, dine at one of Queenstown's exclusive restaurants.
  • Day 7 Journey to Milford Sound through Fiordland National Park. View Mirror Lakes, the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel and Cleddau Valley en route to the dramatic Chasm.
  • Day 8 Take a guided walk on Milford Track through pristine lakes, sky-scraping mountain peaks, glaciers and deep valleys. Bask in the spectacular scenery of Milford Sound aboard a catamaran before dining at Pio Pio Restaurant.
  • Day 9 Take a scenic journey from Fiordland National Park through rolling green pastures before arriving in Dunedin. Your heritage hotel welcomes you with a cosy atmosphere in the city center. Dine on favourites such as surf and turf, braised lamb, catch of the day, or other modern twists on traditional local dishes at Parcels Restaurant.
  • Day 10 Explore the flavours of Dunedin on a guided tour and tasting at Dunedin Craft Distillers. Venture next door for a special Chocolate tasting journey. View Dunedin's sites or venture to the dramatic coastline.
  • Day 11 Travel up the coast though the towns of Oamaru and Timaru to Christchurch to uncover the city's highlights on a fascinating sightseeing tour. Sample the best of the city over dinner at Polo Bar and Restaurant.
  • Day 12 Travel the dramatic rugged coastline to the whale-watching hub of Kaikoura and onto the seaside town of Picton. Cruise on Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Strait to Wellington where you'll get acquainted with the city on an illuminating tour. Unwind this evening with a drink in your hotel's Lobby Lounge, admiring its famous art collection.
  • Day 13 Personalise your day discovering the stunning waterfront and hidden lanes of Wellington. Or, take a guided walk through Otari Wiltons Bush. This evening is free for you to dine at any of the city's restaurants.
  • Day 14 Wind your way through the pastoral dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's Art Deco capital and world-renowned wine country. This evening, savour a tasting and dinner at family-owned Craggy Range Winery in the shadow of Te Mata Peak.
  • Day 15 Take in Napier's art deco architecture with a Local Expert in a chauffeur-driven vintage car. A decadent dinner awaits at Malo.
  • Day 16 Continue your journey to Rotorua, where this afternoon, armed with a packed lunch, you'll join a local guide for a cultural walking eco-tour to discover the jurassic Whirinaki Forest, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER(R) Experience.
  • Day 17 Unveil the Californian Coastal Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest and go behind the scenes on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER(R) Experience at a kiwi bird nursery and hatchery. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at Te Puia. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about M?ori art forms and traditions, followed by a cultural performance and dinner.
  • Day 18 Enjoy a private walk through Footwhistle Cave lit up by glow worms. Dine with one of New Zealand's famous former All Black rugby players.
  • Day 19 After one final breakfast, say farewell to your Christchurch to Auckland luxury tour as you are chauffeured to Auckland Airport.
  • Prices quoted valid for sale until 23 May 2024 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior.
  • Price is per person and subject to availability. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share unless otherwise stated.
  • Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated.
  • Local payments, "trip kittys" or food funds may apply and may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel agent prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted.
  • Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
  • Additional conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Please enquire for further details.
  • Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at time of publication.
  • Additional levies, government charges and other applicable fees may apply and are beyond our control.
  • Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel.
  • Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.
  • Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or Bpay.
  • These prices are a guide to the best price. Prices are correct as at 18 May 2024 and are subject to change without notice, due to matters outside our control, such as adverse currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases. Please enquire for further details.

Tell us about your travel plans

Loading...