New Zealand Rail and Cruise Discovery

Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Later, meet our crew at the welcome dinner, a Canterbury Feast celebrating local produce at the hotel. 

Travel an hour and a half south east of Christchurch to the Banks Peninsula town of Akaroa, known for its mix of 19th-century British and French colonial history and architecture. Here, a Signature Experience awaits. Afterwards, explore Akaroa eateries for lunch (own expense) before heading back to your hotel in Christchurch. Tonight, ride the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant, enjoying a four-course dinner as you take in views of the modern buildings, green spaces and public art installations that dot the city from aboard a heritage tram.

Signature Experience – Akaroa Nature Cruise 

Join a two-hour nature cruise across the waters of Akaroa, a playground for Hector’s dolphins. Marvel at the opportunity to spot the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world as you glide past the rugged coastline. 

Today starts with a Signature Experience, as you travel from Christchurch to Greymouth aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. After your arrival in Greymouth, board a coach for a scenic trip down the west coast to glacier country and the lovely town of Franz Josef/Waiau.

Signature Experience – TranzAlpine Train 

Experience the romance of rail travel aboard the TranzAlpine train. Admire ever-changing landscapes and spectacular gorges as you journey through the famous Southern Alps and alongside the Waimakariri River on one of the world’s most scenic rail routes. 

Signature Experience – Franz Josef/Waiau

Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience.

Enjoy spectacular views today as you drive towards New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown. The Haast Pass follows a trail traditionally used by Māori people in search of greenstone or jade, and cuts through a stunning mountain landscape featuring waterfalls, rushing rivers and lakes. 

Choose from a host of exciting sightseeing opportunities today. 

Freedom of Choice – 'The Lord of the Rings’ 4WD Safari 

Marvel at the beautiful scenery of this region on a 4WD safari. Based around several breathtaking sites where ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy was filmed; this tour takes you to thrilling and iconic locations. 

Freedom of Choice – Skippers Canyon 

Enjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way. 

Freedom of Choice – Dart River Wilderness Jet 

A wilderness jet boat journey takes you deep into the World Heritage area of Mount Aspiring National Park on the glacier-fed Dart River. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history. 

Freedom of Choice – Wine Tour 

Embark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries. 

Freedom of Choice – Best of Queenstown 

Enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown, along with a visit to the charming township of Arrowtown. Explore Gibbston, which is home to the world's first commercial bungy jump location. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery and to top it all off, relax during a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu. 

Travel from Queenstown along the incredibly scenic Milford Road through Fiordland National Park, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. Later, return to the lovely lakeside town of Te Anau.  Savour an authentic Taste of Fiordland dinner, showcasing local specialties along with the finest artisan produce of the region. 

Signature Experience – Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise 

A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above. 

Signature Experience – Taste of Fiordland Dinner

Delight in a delectable Taste of Fiordland dinner this evening at the exceptional MacKinnon Restaurant & Explorer Bar. With a menu that has been carefully crafted to showcase the South Island’s regional cuisine, you’ll savour mouth-watering local fare made from the finest artisan produce.

Take the short drive from Te Anau to lakeside Manapouri, where you will embark on your Signature Experience cruise. 

Signature Experience – Doubtful Sound/Patea Overnight Cruise 

Remote and mysterious Doubtful Sound/Patea is one of Fiordland’s most majestic places. Step aboard your ship here for an unforgettable overnight cruise to discover rugged peaks, hidden islets and pristine rainforests. 

Disembark your overnight cruise and head for Invercargill. On arrival in the early afternoon, choose to explore the township or enjoy a Signature Experience. Alternatively, you may decide to relax at the hotel. 

Signature Experience – Bill Richardson Transport World 

Visit Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill, a haven for car enthusiasts. The automotive museum houses an amazing collection of classic cars and trucks, from Model-T Fords to VW Kombis and a spectacular 1940 Dodge Airflow Texaco tanker. There are more than 300 vehicles on show, the largest private collection of its type in the world. 

Drive by coach from Invercargill to the coastal town of Bluff for a Signature Experience. After your exploration, return by ferry to Bluff in the late afternoon and take a coach transfer back to Invercargill for dinner. 

Signature Experience – Stewart Island/Rakiura 

Travel by ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island/Rakiura and set off on a tour to learn about New Zealand’s southernmost community. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the island. With its rugged terrain, lush forests and pristine beaches, discover the beauty of this unspoilt hidden gem. 

This morning, travel from Invercargill to Dunedin, a city renowned for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture and Scottish heritage. Continue north to the Otago Peninsula and visit the Royal Albatross Centre for a guided tour and to learn all about the world’s largest flying bird. Afterwards, return to Dunedin and enjoy the local sights, before arriving at your hotel. 

Head north through stunning countryside to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the centrepiece of which is New Zealand’s highest mountain peak. Tonight, enjoy a buffet dinner at your hotel’s Alpine Restaurant.

Today you head back to Christchurch, stopping en route to view the much-photographed Church of the Good Shepherd in Tekapo.

Start the day with a Signature Experience, as you embark on a rail journey along the rugged east coast to Picton. Enjoy another Signature Experience, taking the scenic ferry across Cook Strait to Wellington. 

Signature Experience – Coastal Pacific Train 

Join the Coastal Pacific train at Christchurch Station, riding it all the way to beautiful Picton in the Marlborough Sounds region. Be inspired by the magnificent landscapes nestled between the mountains and sea as you travel along one of the most picturesque rail journeys in the country. 

Signature Experience – Interislander Ferry 

Take the iconic Interislander ferry from Picton on the South Island to Wellington on the North Island. Enjoy stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds before cruising across Cook Strait and into the serene waters of Wellington Harbour. 

After a short city tour, head to the Fell Locomotive Museum for your Signature Experience. Later, travel onwards to the pretty lakeside town of Taupō. 

Signature Experience – Fell Locomotive Museum 

The Fell Locomotive Museum houses the H199, the only locomotive of its kind remaining in the world. It was built to withstand the steep gradients on the famous Rimutaka Incline and used an ingenious method of four grip wheels on a raised central track. 

This morning, enjoy your Signature Experience on Lake Taupō. Afterwards, travel to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua with a stop at the spectacular Huka Falls on the way. This evening, an enriching Signature Experience at Te Pā Tū awaits . 

Signature Experience – Taupō Sailing Adventure 

Explore New Zealand's largest lake on board a luxury yacht. Enjoy a leisurely sail on Lake Taupō while taking in the spectacular views of surrounding mountains and the pristine waters. See the Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, which have been hailed as one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary contemporary Māori artworks. With experienced skippers at the helm, participate in the sailing or simply relax and soak up the serene atmosphere. 

Signature Experience – Te Pā Tū 

Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of Haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a Haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner. 

Spend this morning on your Freedom of Choice activity. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Rotorua Icons

Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.

Freedom of Choice – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.

Freedom of Choice – Eco-Thermal Tour

Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.

Freedom of Choice – Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa

Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey, which draws on age-old Ngāti Whakaue healing practices and Māori culture.

Enjoy a Signature Experience before heading to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. 

Signature Experience – Glenbrook Vintage Railway

Step back in time as you experience the history and charm of the Glenbrook Vintage Railway. Board the historic steam train and glide through the North Island’s enchanting landscapes. 

This morning, embark on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, gather at the hotel for a special farewell dinner at Eight Restaurant with your fellow guests. Enjoy a unique, interactive dining experience as you savour the delicious flavours of eight international kitchens, each hosted by an expert chef.

Freedom of Choice – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise 

Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat. 

Freedom of Choice – All Blacks Experience 

Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story. 

Freedom of Choice – Wētā Workshop – Unleashed 

Journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Wētā Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit’ are created. 

Freedom of Choice – Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo 

At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species. 

Freedom of Choice – Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure 

Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland’s wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest’s unique plants and wildlife. 

After breakfast, we transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.