Best of New Zealand & Australia (19 Days)
Auckland, Rotorua & Taupo, Queenstown (Glenorchy) & Milford Sound, Canterbury, Sydney, Ayers Rock, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef & Lizard Island
(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Auckland, Rotorua & Taupo, Glenorchy & Milford Sound, Canterbury
This luxurious introductory tour visits the highlights of New Zealand. Enjoy the most recommended private tours in each location, a variety of stunning landscapes, and several of New Zealand's most acclaimed accommodations, including hotels, a countryside retreat on a rural working farm, and several elite luxury lodges.
Begin on the North Island in Auckland, a city of harbors, islands, beaches and volcanic hills. With your private guide, explore the city's most interesting neighborhoods and cultural attractions, or opt to take a private excursion to nearby Waiheke Island, renowned for its beautiful landscapes, excellent vineyards and fine restaurants.
Next, transfer with your private driver-guide to Rotorua, surrounded by volcanoes and active geothermal activity. Enjoy a private tour of the region’s countless natural and cultural attractions and see exploding geysers, steaming lakes, Maori cultural attractions, and a sheep show. Continue to Taupo for two nights at Huka Lodge, one of New Zealand's most acclaimed lodges. While there, enjoy a private cruise on Lake Taupo and the opportunity for fly-fishing, if desired.
Next, fly to Queenstown, an upscale resort town on the South Island surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. Enjoy a private tour of town and nearby Arrowtown before being transferred out to Glenorchy for three nights at a luxury wilderness lodge. While there, we'll arrange for you to take a thrilling Dart River jet boat safari into the magnificent landscapes of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Another day, take a spectacular private flight over the Alps to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most famous and dramatic attractions. This memorable tour also includes a glacier landing.
Continue to Christchurch, the "Garden City." Enjoy a private city tour and see the renowned Arts Centre, the Avon River and the city's lovely parks and gardens. Continue to the nearby countryside and spend several nights in Canterbury at an historic, luxurious homestead . While there, touring highlights include a 4WD tour of the working sheep and cattle station—a quintessential NZ experience—and a tour of beautiful Arthur's Pass National Park.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Arrive Auckland
Private arrival transfer to hotel for 1 night. Afternoon private city tour or excursion to Waiheke Island
Day 2
Auckland - Rotorua - Taupo
Private transfer to Taupo for 2 nights with touring of Rotorua en route
Day 3
Taupo
Private half-day cruise including fishing
Day 4
Taupo - Queenstown - Glenorchy
Private transfer to airport for flight to Queenstown. Private tour on arrival and transfer to lodge for 3 nights
Queenstown - Christchurch - Canterbury
Private transfer to airport for flight to Christchurch. Private transfer to country retreat for 2 nights
Day 8
Canterbury
4WD farm tour in morning. Afternoon tour of Arthur's Pass National Park
Day 9
Depart Christchurch
Private transfer to airport
Hotels
Auckland:
Mollies of Auckland
Taupo:
Huka Lodge
Glenorchy:
Blanket Bay Lodge
Canterbury:
Grasmere Lodge
Cost
$14,390
Per person (double occupancy)
All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.
Call us at (800) 214-8144 for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.