We are happy to offer you what we consider a very exciting and diverse trip to New Zealand. You will see all the highlights of this country and visit the best known locations. You still will have some days for relaxation and we have included fantastic activities.
All tours are private, depart daily, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Please contact us at info@arohatours.co.nz or 0064-21-890611 for more information about our luxury New Zealand tours.
Day 1: Auckland
You will be met on arrival at Auckland International Airport by your Aroha NZ Tours Representative, and transferred to your accommodation in our luxurious vehicle. Your 21 Day Tour starts with a relaxing sightseeing tour of Auckland, a chance to explore the CBD and outer area’s of the city, taking in the spectacular harbour views of the Waitemata from Auckland’s illustrious waterfront, and through some of the most expensive real estate in NZ. You will also have the opportunity to stop off and visit one of Auckland’s most prestigious shopping areas “Parnell Historical Village”, from “Parnell Historical Village” your tour continues on to the Mt Eden one of 48 dormant volcanoes situated in and around Auckland, from the summit of Mt Eden you can take in a stunning 360 degree view of Auckland city and it’s surrounding harbours. From Mt Eden your tour continues out to the magnificent west coast famous in New Zealand for its unique black sand coastline, and native bush surroundings set in one of Auckland’s many regional parks. On your return back to your accommodation we will give you the opportunity at your request to stop off and enjoy a taste of celebrated New Zealand wines that are grown and produced throughout the area. Accommodation: Auckland City
Day 2: Auckland-Waipoua Forest (Kauri Trees)
On our first day we drive North of Auckland. 'Step into our World' and let your local guides take you on a memorable journey through nature's stages of evolution, whilst providing a mythological and interactive interpretation of life in the forest.Meet our ancestors; the mighty Te Matua Ngahere ('The Father of the Forest') estimated to be between 3,000 and 4,000 years old, his mighty girth is over 5 metres (15ft) in diameter. 'The Four Sisters' are a graceful collection of kauri trees that have grown close together in sibling harmony and finally, Tane Mahuta ('The Lord of the Forest') who stands an impressive 51 metres (150ft) tall. Join a tour for an intimate encounter to learn how these trees are inter-twined with the lives of local Maori and the important role they play in the eco-system that is the Waipoua Forest. In the evening experience the wander of the New Zealand predator free bush by night. Trounson Park is administered by the Department of Conservation who constantly work to eradicate pests to ensure the survival of the very rare Kiwi bird. You will enjoy a leisurely guided walk through the forest with a guide whose knowledge of our local flora, fauna and kiwi is thorough and interesting. Accommodation: Waipoua Forest
Day 3: Waipoua Forest- 90 mile beach-Bay of Islands (90 Mile beach, Hole in the Rock)
After breakfast, we take you to “90 Mile Beach” before crossing to the Eastern Bays into the Bay of Islands. Your first major destination point Paihia, the first the first European settlement in New Zealand. We take you on a walk along the spectacular Paihia waterfront and Waitangi beach to the historic Waitangi Treaty grounds, the location of the signing of the peace treaty between the Maori and the British Crown in 1840. From Waitangi you board the ferry to Russell, a small romantic township rich with colonial history. Take time out for lunch in one of Russell’s many historic buildings and enjoy glorious views out over the idyllic wharf. In the afternoon we can (instedt of 90 Mile Beach) arrange boat cruise around the stunning Bay of Islands, passing through the famous “Hole in the Rock” at Cape Brett, a fascinating natural geological attraction. Dolphin watching tours can also be arranged. Settle into your accommodation for the evening, and enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Russell town-ship. Accommodation: Bay of Islands
Day 4: Bay of Island- Waitomo Caves (Glow-worms)
Passing back through Auckland we take you south through the lush green rural farm land of the Waikato region, the rich and fertile pastoral land of the Waikato is one of New Zealand’s major dairy producing and horse breeding areas. One of the major attractions of the Waikato region are the famous Waitomo Caves (translation: 'where the water disappears into a hole in the ground'). The caves are perhaps one of the finest natural attractions in the country, with their vast unique caverns and eerie stalactite and stalagmite formations home to the thousands and thousands of constellations of glow-worms. On arrival in Waitomo a 45 minute guided tour of the caves is available for you to experience. We settle tonight in Raglan. This delightful seaside resort is renowned for its surf beaches, dramatic bush and rugged coastal scenery. You have a chance to relax on the remote black sand beaches, walk the coastal tracks, or grab your opportunity to surf one of the best left hand breaks in the world. Accommodation: Waitomo
Day 5: Waitomo-Rotorua (Maori culture)
Your tour arrives in the geothermal capital of Rotorua around midday. Set amidst a landscape of erupting geothermal activity, hot thermal springs and hot bubbling mud pools is the Living Maori village of Whakarewarewa situated in Rotorua, the heart of the North Island. Discover our unique lifestyle and traditions. Join a guided tour and see the wonders of Mother Nature and learn how we have come to live in harmony within this unique environment. Prepare your own Hangi Meal and making your own rourou (food basket) or place mat. After the cultural performance, lift your hangi meal from the steam vents and enjoy your meal. The unique geothermal muds and waters of Rotorua are renown for their curative and invigorating properties—and this is particularly so at “Hells Gate” - Rotorua’s most active thermal park. Enjoy a relaxing spa or swim in the mud pools. Take a rejuvenation massage or facial provided by local Maoris in their traditional Miri Miri way. Accommodation: Rotorua
Day 6: Rotorua-LakeTaupo (Geothermal areas)
Following on from this you take another journey through a world of unique thermal formations at Waitapu Thermal Wonderland. View the fascinating 'Champagne Pool” and experience the panorama of vividly colourful hot and cold pools, steaming fumaroles and hot boiling mud pools.Today we stay at Lake Taupo, the largest Lake in this country on the way we stop at the Huka Falls - these spectacular falls roar through a 15-m wide chasm before plunging a further 11-m. Before lunch we take you on a boat cruise to the western bays of this magnificent lake, which was firmed by volcanic explosions over thousand years ago. It is now the most famous trout-fishing lake in the world. Today, Taupo is also know for it multiple choices on outdoor activities, like Bungy Jumping, Jet boating, Wild Water Rafting, Parasailing, Sky jumping… you name it. You have the whole afternoon to explore the town ship with his many shops and modern coffee places. We can arrange other activities for you as well. Let us know if you want to go fishing or if you feel like jumping of a bridge? Other wise you can relax on the beach or just scroll around the lake edges. Accommodation: Lake Taupo
Day 7: Taupo-National Park-Taihape (Volcanic National Park and farm-stay)
After Breakfast we travel around the edges of the Lake and stop at the remote Lake Rotoaira to get our first spectacular view of the Volcanic Plateau and Mount Tongariro. We reach the park ranges, which include wildly differing landscape and scenery: from deserts to vast areas of tussock land, mountain beech forests and wetlands, all with a mix of native flora and fauna. Driving through the National Park area, which is a World Heritage Site, you will get superb views at the volcanic peaks of Tongariro and Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu (2797 meters); We drive deep into farming country to the remote Mokai Valley, where the picturesque Rangitikei River meats the rugged Ruahine Ranges. Not far out from your accommodation we take you to the edges of the crystal clear waters of the Rangitikei River set amongst the beautiful native flora and fauna, which provides a stunning and picturesque backdrop that, can be variably appreciated. Accommodation: Mokai Valley
Day 8: Taihape-Kapiti Coast-Wellington (Te Papa Museum)
We drive via the West Coast of the North Island to the Waikanae region. This area has adopted the name of the “Gold Coast”, here you can enjoy locally made gourmet cheeses, visit orchards and walk the beautiful sandy beaches. In the afternoon we encroach on New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. Spend your time strolling around the many shops and galleries the city has to offer. Visit the “Te Papa History Museum”, the largest natural history museum in the country, another suggested visit is the “Embassy Theatre” which recently hosted the world premier of the third Lord Of The Rings trilogy” The Return of the Kings”, climb aboard the famous Wellington Cable Car which takes you up the steep terraced divide to the luxuriant Botanic Gardens which allows you an overall 360 degree view of Wellington city. Accommodation: Wellington City.
Day 9: Wellington-Marlborough Sounds
We board a Ferry to cross the Cook Strait encounter a glorious world as the ferry enters the Marlborough Sounds and from the Tory Channel into the Queen Charlotte Sound. You will discover a region of myriad inlets and bay’s with dramatic hills that plunge steeply into the sea. The steep, wooded hills and small quiet bays of the sounds are sparsely populated, as access is difficult. Many of the small settlements and isolated houses are only accessible by boat. The main large port is Picton on the mainland, at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. Your guide will inform you of the many option to discover the Marlborough Sound. Take a water taxi to some of the remote bays and walk the Queen Charlotte trek. Take a boat trip to the mussel farms nearby and discover the local history (optional extra charge). Accommodation: Marlborough Sounds
Day 10: Marlborough Sounds-Nelson (Wineries and Art Galleries)
A long windy road will take us into Nelson. Apples, cherries and classic wine varietal grapes are well suited to the mild climate and sunshine in the Marlborough and Nelson areas. Many vineyards have opened retail and food outlets here; we will take you on a wine tour. Nelson is also known for its vibrant arts and handcrafts scene. We drive you to the seaside township of Mapua, known to be home for local artist and some of Nelson’s best cafés. Let a guide take you deeper into the surroundings natural environment and kayak into the South Islands largest estuary. The trip will take you deep into the unique wetlands- watch out for oystercatchers, spoonbills and terns.
Accommodation: Nelson
Day 11: Nelson-Abel Tasman (Water Taxi into the Able Tasman Park)
Today we experience an “Aqua Taxi”, a unique water taxi tour into the Abel Tasman National Park. Enjoy the diversity of one of New Zealand's most exotic coastlines as the backdrop. We will see the delightful Tonga Island seal colony, and walk a track from one of the bays to Awaroa Bay. Have a leisurely day on the water and enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Awaroa Lodge and Café. Stroll along the glorious white and golden sand beaches, or take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the bay. Accommodation: Nelson
Day 12: Nelson-Franz Josef Glazier (Optional helicopter fight/landing glaciers)
The West Coast has an independent character; its landscape and inhabitants are rugged and wild. Rain falls frequently, waterfalls burst in great torrents. We stop at Punakaki the jewel of the West Coast, Punakaiki is world renown for its pancake rock formation and blowholes. Walk along some of the stunning and remote beach treks, though a dense rainforest with Nikau Palms and large ferns. We follow the winding road along one of the most stunning coastal drives in the country. Pass the township of Greymouth and Hokitika; known both for gold and coal mining in New Zealand. The mountains in this area are a source for jade, or greenstone, important in Maori history as material for jewellery, tools and weaponry. Galleries here offer you the chance to view this beautiful stone and gold crafts. We take a leisurely and scenic drive to the famous glacier region, which make a dramatic approach to the sea. Your day’s itinerary will end in the tiny settlement of Franz Josef. One of the best ways to appreciate the glaciers size and features and blue ice crevasses is by air. From here you can hire a helicopter to take a scenic flight over this spectacular scenery. Accommodation: West Coast
Day 13: Franz Josef Glacier-Haast-Mt Aspiring National Park-Queenstown (Rainforest walk to remote water-falls)
This day gives you the opportunity to view two major glaciers Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier; it also takes you through the South Westland region to one of our World Heritage Parks. Your guide will take you on a walk/trek that will take you to the bottom of Fox Glaciers. Both Glaciers are located 25 km from each other and are unique in the world as they seem to nearly reach the ocean Mt Aspiring National Park this area is a vast, glacial sculpted wilderness. Or decide to visit nearby Lake Matheson. The forested path skirts the shores of the mist-shrouded lake and on a clear day, New Zealand’s highest peaks are spectacularly reflected in the mirror-like waters. As you exit Mt Aspiring National Park you will travel through what is known as 'The Neck' a formation of land that separates two of our great South Island lakes Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka, a short stopover in Lake Wanaka before continuing on across the Crown Range to Queenstown. We take you on a tour into the surrounding areas to Arthur's Point it's on to Coronet Peak for more spectacular views of Queenstown. We will take you to your accommodation in Queenstown from where you can take the opportunity to explore the village area. Accommodation: Queenstown
Day 14: Queenstown (Dart river jet boat ride)
Queenstown is the top adventure and activity centre in New Zealand. Most of the cast was based here and major parts movie where filmed in this region Travel with your guide into one of the most spectacular areas known to man. From Queenstown travel the length of Lake Wakitipu to Glenorchy. This is a true wilderness experience. A journey of discovery, you will see ancient forests, cascading waterfalls, and New Zealand wilderness at its best. You’ll have an exhilarating Jet boat ride on the upper reaches of the Dart River, and return via the lower reaches. We travel by 4WD coach between Glenorchy & Paradise, and enjoy a short guided forest walk. This is a must for any visitor to New Zealand, a journey to mesmerize even the most seasoned traveller. Accommodation: Queenstown
Day 15: Queenstown-Milford Sound-Fiordland National Park (Cruise in Fiordland National Park)
We are heading for the spectacular Milford Sound, described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world” which was carved out during successive ice ages and, at its deepest point off Mitre Peak, plunges to a depth of 265 meters. The awesome splendour of this region is unsurpassed anywhere else in the World, a daring claim in a country which offers extraordinary beauty around every corner. Getting there is half of the experience; we take you through the Fiordland National Park, pass staggeringly beautiful valleys, lakes and creeks. If the time allows we will stop at the” Mirror Lakes”, before entering the narrow and dark 1km long Homer Tunnel. We take you on a day cruise into the magnificent wonder-world of the Milford Sound. You may encounter Kea’s, New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrots and we stop and explore some of nature’s wonders on the way. At Milford we board a vessel and cruise on the Fiord through sheer cliffs covered with vegetation that plunges into the sea. View the Bowen Falls, hurtling 165 meters into the sea, and the Stirling Falls further down the sound, set amidst the towering cliffs and dwarfed by Mitre Peak. On the way back we take a board walk into the “Chasm” to see surreal, water-hewn rock sculptures. (We highly recommend a flight, cruise and drive excursion into the Milford Sound) Accommodation: Te Anau
Day 16: Te Anau- Dunedin (Otago Peninsula, Albatross and Penguin Colony)
From the most Southern Point of New Zealand the guide will take you back North to the East Coast and the town of Dunedin. The splendour of many of its public buildings reflects Dunedin's economic and cultural pre-eminence in Victorian New Zealand. Today, Dunedin has a rightly deserved reputation as one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Drive further to the tip of the Otago Peninsula is Taiaroa Heads, about forty minutes from the city centre. The magnificent Royal Albatross, a huge sea bird of mythology, soars above the rugged cliffs. Take a guided tour of the only mainland nesting colony of the Royal Albatross in the world. For dusk we have organised a tour to watch the yellow-eye and blue penguin colonies close by. Accommodation: Dunedin
Day 16: Te Anau- Dunedin (Larnach Castle, Otago Peninsula and Albatross Colony)
From the most Southern Point of New Zealand the guide will take you back North to the East Coast and the town of Dunedin. The splendour of many of its public buildings reflects Dunedin's economic and cultural pre-eminence in Victorian New Zealand. Today, Dunedin has a rightly deserved reputation as one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. High among the rolling hills of the Peninsula is Larnach Castle, the grand home of an early politician. Visit its historic-style garden which can be reached via the high road along the Peninsula's ridge. From here, views out to sea and back towards the city emphasise the singular beauty of Dunedin and its jewel-like harbour. Drive further to the tip of the Otago Peninsula is Taiaroa Heads, about forty minutes from the city centre. The magnificent Royal Albatross, a huge sea bird of mythology, soars above the rugged cliffs. Take a guided tour of the only mainland nesting colony of the Royal Albatross in the world. Accommodation: Dunedin
Day 17: Dunedin-Twizel (Mt Cook area)
We take you from Dunedin to Oamaru. The main Town of North Otago is a pretty town and the best-preserved collection of historic and commercial buildings in New Zealand. We travel into deep into the heart of the Southern Alps and to the southern slopes of Mt Cook National Park. The region is renowned for its incredibly clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green and snow-capped mountains. Shaped by the giant forces of nature, massive glaciers have scoured the land leaving a trail of lakes and rivers across the landscape. Today you will see awesome mountain ranges - the snow capped Southern Alps stretching across the western horizon. Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain at 3,754 metres above sea level, towers over the expansive countryside. Accommodation: Twizel
Day 18: Lake Tekapo-Akaroa Peninsula (Banks Peninsula, Hector Dolphins)
Our trip will take us through some of the most evocative hill county in New Zealand. Speckled with small agricultural outposts, the Canterbury Plains are an area of serene, rural beauty. To the east lie the coastal climes of Timaru while, to the west, Mackenzie Country accounts for a large percent of New Zealand’s sheep population. We drive you through Canterbury to the historic French colonial village of Akaroa; only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch. The township is settled around a dormant crater and natural harbour. The French explorers who sailed to Akaroa in 1840 left some indelible imprints throughout township. There are numerous ways to get you up-close and personal with wildlife. You can experience the rare Hector Dolphins, fur seals and cormorant colonies and might have a chance to spot the world smallest “Blue Penguin” on a majestic harbour cruise or go for a swim with these native Dolphins, the smallest in the world. Accommodation: Akaroa Peninsula
Day 19: Akaraoa- Kaikoura-(Whale-watch cruise)
By midday we reach the small seaside town of Kaikoura which is nestled on a rugged peninsula on the East Coast and is backed by the breathtaking Seaward Kaikoura Ranges. A spectacular marine playground exists off the coast of Kaikoura; - living in this environment is the mighty Sperm Whale. Join a whale watching cruise at the beautiful coastline of the South Island. (This excursion is subject to weather and lighting conditions –optional and extra charges). Fur seals, once almost hunted to extinction are now plentiful here, resting on warm rocks after a nights fishing. Walk among these creatures at this unique beach and watch our native Seabirds, also enjoying the rich sea harvest. Accommodation: Kaikoura
Day 20: Kaikoura-Christchurch (Botanical gardens)
We take into Christchurch, where you can spend the afternoon shopping, punting on the Avon River, riding a tram through the inner city streets, or taking coffee al fresco in the old university precinct. You will feel the influence of British tradition in the streets of Christchurch. Don’t forget the stunning Botanic Gardens and the rich Canterbury Art Museum! Reflect on your journey through New Zealand, while you dine in one of the many excellent local restaurants. Accommodation: Christchurch City
Day 21: Christchurch Departure
You can relax before your driver/guide collects you from your accommodation to transfer you to Christchurch Airport to connect you with your departing airline.