The Chilled Kiwi

There is no better way to start the day than by walking in nature, and Ruakuri Reserve offers the perfect morning walk. This spectacular loop highlights the sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches unique to the Waitomo area. We then leave the enchanting Waitomo district and head to an equally enchanting land, Hobbiton. Here you will have the option to join other Hobbiton movie enthusiasts on a guided tour of the famous movie set. After your have geeked out over this neck of the woods, we head to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal wonderland. This evening we will head over to Mitai Maori Village to learn about the culture of Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Be immersed in culture and traditions through authentic experiences and then enjoy a traditional hangi dinner. 

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Experiences & Highlights

Rotorua offers plenty of experiences to keep you busy on your free day here. For the adventurous, explore the treetops on a network of ziplines with Rotorua Canopy Tours or roll downhill on a giant inflatable ball with Zorb. For those who prefer a more cultural experience, take park in a local Jade Carving workshop. The option to  Check-out Kuirau Park, a geothermal wonderland located just a short walk from our accommodation is also a great way to spend the morning. Included today is entry to a relaxing thermal spa, Wai Ariki Hot Springs. Nestled perfectly by the shores of Lake Rotorua, this is the place to unwind and relax in culture and tradition.  

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This morning we leave the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and head to New Zealands capital city, Wellington. The locals say you cannot beat Welly on a good day so lets hope it is a beautiful day when we arrive. Along the way, we will stop off at the famous Huka Falls and stretch our legs on a brief walk around the falls before hopping back aboard and continuing our journey south to Wellington. 

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Today in Wellington the decisions are all yours! Head along to Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum and learn about history and maybe leave with some new facts you can wow your friends and family with! 

Fuel your afternoon with excitement! Rent an e-bike (optional paid activity) and cruise along Wellington's stunning waterfront with Switched on Bikes, or immerse yourself in nature at Zealandia, a haven for native wildlife (optional paid activity). Discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city and let your adventurous spirit soar.

This evening, discover the hidden bars of Wellington. Here is a link to find them.

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We bid farewell to the North Island and depart Wellington to board the interisland ferry for an awe-inspiring sailing across the Cook Strait. Regarded as one of the most beautiful inter-island crossings in the world, enjoy the deck and marvel at the stunning Marlborough Sounds as we dock at the top of the South Island. Our drive to Kaikoura will take us through the gorgeous Marlborough District, home to countless internationally renowned vineyards and distilleries. Stopping for a tasting (or two) along the way (included). Our day concludes with a drive along with a breathtaking coastline as we make our way to the coastal town of Kaikoura. Kaikoura is known for abundant marine life; this is your chance to encounter magnificent whales (seasonal), playful dolphins and graceful seals. Join an optional tour to take in the breathtaking wildlife on offer.

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Start your day with a sleep-in, or for the more adventurous, head out to sea to witness the spectacular marine life of Kaikoura up close, dolphins, whales, seals, and albatross, to name a few. Jump in the water and spend your morning swimming with dolphins or if you would rather keep your distance, a dolphin OR whale watching experience is perfect for you. Today also calls for a visit to the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway to meet the local seal colony before hitting the road to Christchurch. This afternoon in Christchurch would be for you to get out and explore, it is a city with so much to do so you would not be left bored. 

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Let’s hit the road and cruise into the magnificent Mackenzie Country, home to stunning scenery, wide open spaces, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands, and dazzlingly starry skies. We will visit one of the region’s most famous and photographed icons, the Church of The Good Shepherd, located on the stunning lakefront of Lake Tekapo. The church is built in memory of the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. Stretch your legs on a walk up Mt John and enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, lakes and Mackenzie Basin Flats. Tonight calls for relaxation at the serene Tekapo Hot Springs. 

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Get excited as we head towards the adrenaline capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. But first we will spend some of today discovering the beautiful Mt Cook area along the way. The Hooker Valley Track is the most iconic and best day walk located within the national park. Enjoy the views as the track winds past glaciers and in the shadows of mountains, most namingly Mount Cook, New Zealands highest mountain. This evening in Queenstown enjoy a dinner with the rest of the crew. 

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Queenstown has something for everyone; here, you can seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Each season offers its own unique vibe, and most activities can be accessed all year round. If you’re looking for adrenaline, bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting and sky diving are all available. If a more relaxed pace is calling, hire a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area.  

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Experiences & Highlights

Today is yours to explore Queenstown but our best suggestion on how to spend your day is an optional experience but one that is sure to impress and one you will not regret. A trip to the South Island would only be complete with a trip to Piopiotahi, Milford Sound. Our first stop of the day is in the quaint town of Te Anau where there is options to fuel up before continuing the breathtaking drive towards Milford Sound with scheduled photo stops along the way. Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, known for its pristine wildlife, which marvels at any time of year and in any weather; Milford Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and, unsurprisingly, one of the most amazing scenic day trips to do in New Zealand. Enjoy a two-hour scenic boat cruise through the inky blackwater; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife; if you’re really lucky, you’ll spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin.  After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.

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This morning we leave the beautiful Queenstown and head around a few corners, around the mountains and make our way to Wanaka and Lake Hawea. Along the way, let's stop in for a visit in Arrowtown, a town that is famous for its mining history. Next up, stretching of our legs during a walk at the famous Roys Peak. Enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring before we head back and enjoy the evening spent in Hawea. 

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Today we leave Hawea and head north to the stunning Franz Josef area which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous 12km long glacier. Get up close to the glacier itself, enjoy some of the activities in the area and be prepared to be blown away by the natural beauty of the area. 

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Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, and the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. Immerse yourself in a unique opportunity today - carving your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewellery (included). You’ll learn more about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and depart with your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.  

You’ll then get to explore the Franz Josef glacier, an ever-changing landscape of ice. Opt for the Heli-Hike adventure, allowing you to walk on top of the glacier itself. For a free option, walk through the rainforest to a viewing area where the icy wonderland lies just 750m away.

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Today we leave the depths of the mountains & glaciers and head north towards Hanmer Springs, a town located in the Canterbury region still home to mountainous views and best known for its natural hot pools. Before we leave the awe-inspiring Franz Josef area, we will spend our morning learning at the West Coast Widllife Centre. Meet the rare Kiwi bird and find out more about nature, conservation and wildlife through interactive experiences. 

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Hanmer Springs is the ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence, and you’ve got a free day to explore this remarkable town. Today you have an entry ticket to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa where you can soak in the 22 outdoor thermal pools, complete with four hydroslides and the New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill.

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After an action-packed and rejuvenated stay in Hanmer Springs, we'll cruise on through to Christchurch. Before leaving Hanmer Springs, enjoy a brief walk through the beautiful heritage forest located here and keep a look out for large wooden animal sculptures along the way. These animals are all delicately crafted out of redwood tree that had to be removed from the thermal pools and spa. Later this afternoon, the tour comes to an end in Christchurch. 

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