Travel south through lush Waikato farmland to Waitomo Caves for a boat ride under a galaxy of glow-worms. Continue east to Rotorua, steeped in Maori culture and history. Tonight enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and concert. Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 2: At Rotorua

This morning see roaring geysers and boiling mud pools at the thermal area, tame trout at the springs and performing sheep and dogs at the Agrodome. Your afternoon is free - there are many activities to enjoy.

Day 3: Rotorua - Wellington

Drive south to Wairakei - wreathed by steam, then to Taupo. Skirt Lake Taupo, and cross the volcanic landscape of the Desert Rd past the majestic peaks of Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and Ruapehu. Continue across the fertile plains of the Manawatu and along the rugged Kapiti coastline to Wellington. Overnight in Wellington.

Day 4: Wellington – Picton - Christchurch

Cross Cook Strait by ferry, to the Marlborough Sounds and Picton. The TranzCoastal train skims the spectacular coastline between the Kaikoura Ranges and the Pacific. Continue through North Canterbury sheep country to Christchurch. As you arrive in the evening, consider adding an extra day in our most ‘English’ city. Overnight in Christchurch

Day 5: Christchurch - Dunedin

Travel south across the Canterbury Plains through seaside Timaru, and historic Oamaru to Dunedin – "the Edinburgh of the South". Arrive early afternoon.Overnight in Dunedin.

Please note, no commentary is provided on this journey

Day 6: Dunedin - Taieri Gorge - Queenstown

This morning is at your leisure for optional sightseeing. Board the Taieri Gorge train for a journey through spectacular gorges and over historic viaducts to Pukerangi where you join your coach for the remainder of the journey to Queenstown. Arrive in Queenstown in the late evening and stay for 3 nights.

Day 7: Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown

An early start around the southern shores of Lake Wakatipu to Lake Te Anau, then into Fiordland National Park. Pass through pristine beech forests and the Homer Tunnel to view the majesty of Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls aboard a cruise on the Sound. Climb out of Milford Sound to return to Queenstown by evening. Tour Bonus: Enjoy your lunch on the Milford Sound boat. Depart Milford Sound to return to Queenstown by evening.

Day 8: At Queenstown

Today is free for you to enjoy this fabulous resort – we have included the Skyline Gondola in your tour. There are dozens of optional activities from thrilling jet boat rides to leisurely lake cruises, 4WD safaris and bungy jumping.

Day 9: Queenstown - Christchurch

Travel through the Kawarau Gorge with its historic gold mines, passing by spectacular scenery into Tekapo. Continue north through the Canterbury Plains arriving into Christchurch late afternoon.