Your tour starts from Auckland, New Zealand’s "City of Sails" and one of the friendly MoaTrek team will meet you at the airport today (or whenever you arrive) and will drop you off at your hotel. Your home for the night is just a short stroll away from the cafes and restaurants of Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter, Princes Wharf and the downtown shopping district. Can’t wait to get out into that New Zealand fresh air? Ferries to Devonport or the Hauraki Gulf islands are right there too! There’s no better way to get your bearings than to take the stunning view from the Sky Tower, or a short ride to the Auckland Museum, watching over the city from the Auckland Domain. Read more

Auckland, 1 night

Your New Zealand adventure begins with a real local’s treat, Muriwai Beach on the West Coast, a Kiwi favourite. Follow your guide for a short stroll along the headland for stunning views of the Tasman Sea and gannet colony on the nearby clifftops. From Muriwai we head for Northland, the "birthplace of the nation". Skirting the Kaipara Harbour we continue to the excellent Matakohe Kauri Museum to learn the history and significance of the mighty kauri tree. In the ancient Waipoua Kauri forest we meet our friends from Ngapuhi, the northernmost Maori tribe. Ngapuhi are the guardians of the Hokianga harbour where Kupe "the great navigator" became the first person to set foot on Aotearoa. We’re welcomed with a special "Karakia" from our hosts and then walk to the magnificent kauri tree "Tane Mahuta". We relax over dinner in our beachside accommodation with new friends. Read more

Hokianga, 1 night

Our day starts with a harbour cruise with another of our Ngapuhi friends, Pete (a real hard case!). He’ll tell you why all Kiwis have heard of Opononi and take us on our first foray off the beaten track, across the harbour for a walk along the deserted beach and for the adventurous, the chance to try sandboarding! Northland is one of the narrowest spots in the North Island which makes for an easy day from the Hokianga to the Bay of Islands on the "other side". We’re in no rush, there’s time for plenty of stops along the way, like the famous Stone Store in Kerikeri, New Zealand’s oldest stone building. We’re now in the beautiful Bay of Islands, where we continue onto our home for the next two nights. From our hotel walk just across the lawn to the Waitangi Treaty House for our guided tour. You’re standing on the spot where in 1840 Maori chiefs and Queen Victoria’s representatives signed the treaty which gave birth to the nation. Read more

Bay of Islands, 2 nights

Getting out on the pristine waters of the Bay of Islands is an absolute must! Take your pick from swimming with dolphins or a relaxed cruise to Cape Brett and the famous "Hole in the Rock". Whichever you choose, you’ll see why we loved coming on holiday here so much as kids and how two nights here is the perfect start to your tour. Your fun on the water finishes at Russell (Kororareka), the very first capital of New Zealand, a small town with a rollicking 19th century past. It’s come a long way since it was a favourite haunt of whalers and sealers, with no police or laws you can imagine what went on! Visit the colonial buildings, walk the waterfront or climb Flagstaff Hill for spectacular views before the short ferry ride back to Paihia. Read more

Bay of Islands, 2 nights

Today’s another chance to get off the beaten track, one of the real advantages of travelling in a small group. Our first port of call are the Kawiti Glowworm Caves. The caves are named after the famous Maori chief of the area Kawiti and still belong to his family. His great grandson Te Tawai Kawiti showed the first visitors through the caves in the 1950s. Glowworms are something most Kiwis grew up with but are surprised to learn that they’re extremely rare in other countries. The ancient limestone caves are home to millions of twinkling glowworms including the famous Milky Way cavern that you’ll learn all about from your friendly guide. This afternoon we’ll head back to Auckland for the night, right in the heart of it all in the viaduct. Read more

Auckland, 1 night

From Auckland our tour continues to Rotorua via the lush pastures of the Waikato and fruit basket of the Bay of Plenty. Our first stop is the dramatic Karangahake Gorge for a stroll alongside the Ohinemuri River through native bush to the relics and ruins of this region's gold-mining past. Near Te Puke, the Kiwifruit capital of the world, we'll visit a working Kiwifruit orchard before continuing on to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, at Okawa Bay, we board "Tiua", a 53ft catamaran for a relaxing sail on serene Lake Rotoiti to secluded coves and natural hot pools reached only by boat - a memorable end to an awesome day. Read more

Rotorua, 2 nights

We’ve got two nights in Rotorua, so take it easy this morning! Perhaps stroll down to the lakeside, just minutes from your hotel, or enjoy one of Rotorua's many guided tours and attractions. Don’t miss nearby Ohinemutu marae, one of only two living Maori villages left in New Zealand. We'll head to the famous 'Buried Village of Te Wairoa' for a hosted lunch with our friends David and Karen, you’ll love them and their stories from their Maori and European histories. After lunch let’s take a walk around the village itself before we learn all about our national icon (the Kiwi bird) and the amazing efforts that go into ensuring their survival at the Rotorua Kiwi Encounter. When you see a live Kiwi you'll be amazed at how big they are! Read more

Rotorua, 2 nights

No Kiwi holiday would be complete without a visit to the surreal, geothermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu. The bubbling mud pools and incredibly colourful silica terraces are unforgettable. We continue on our adventure to "Great Lake" Taupo, for a stop at the famous Huka Falls. We’ll take our time and make plenty of stops around the lake to enjoy the magnificent views of our three volcanoes - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. The lunar landscape of the volcanic plateau is our next stop at Tongariro National Park. You’ll love the grandeur of our home for the night Chateau Tongariro at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, the perfect spot to stretch your legs on a short walk before dinner. Read more

Tongariro, 1 night

Our day starts in style, with breakfast at the historic Chateau Tongariro nestled at the base of the mountains. This is the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, from this volcanic plateau we make our way across the high country and down to the seaside holiday spot of Hawke’s Bay. There won’t be many Kiwis who don’t have awesome summer holiday memories from ‘the Bay’! You'll slip right into holiday mode as we pass through the idyllic Hawke's Bay patchwork of orchards, pasture, vineyards and of course the sweeping coastline. On to Napier, where the afternoon is yours to explore the town at your leisure. Renowned for its Art Deco architecture, Napier was rebuilt in this style after an earthquake in 1931 and nowadays the whole community embraces Art Deco, there’s definitely a ‘Great Gatsby’ feel to the place! On arrival, take your pick of a guided walking tour of the Napier's impressive Art Deco buildings, or you may prefer a cocktail overlooking the ocean, we’re in the best spot possible tonight! Read more

Napier, 1 night

With Napier firmly tucked within your heart, say goodbye as we travel through the countryside and vineyards, through the small towns of Norsewood and Dannevirke before heading down the Wairarapa Plains to historic, arty Greytown. Its picturesque main street is lined with antique, craft and gift shops, it’s also at the centre of the Wairarapa's premium wine-growing region, go on, grab a glass with lunch, you’re on holiday! Something different about our tour is the overnight stay in Wellington, we reckon you can’t miss ’the coolest little capital in the world'. We’ll check out the city's sights and head up Mt Victoria for the stunning views over the harbour before getting settled for the night. We’re right in the heart of Wellington's vibrant hub of museums, theatres, galleries, boutiques and cafes. Looking for some local flavour? Ask for one of Wellington’s trendy craft beers with your dinner (Our pick – Tuatara). Read more

Wellington, 1 night

Loading up the car and heading across to "the mainland" is what we all used to do on holiday as kids, it’s a Kiwi rite of passage! We cruise on the Interislander ferry for three hours across Cook Strait and into beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton to plant our feet firmly on “Te Waka a Maui”, the South Island. Our first port of call is Forrest Wines for tasting and lunch, right in the heart of the world famous Marlborough sauvignon blanc region. From wine country we head through the heart of Marlborough toward Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand and gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. Along the way we cross the Pelorus River bridge, scene of the Barrel Run from the Hobbit movies. In Nelson relax and unpack, this is home for two nights. Read more

Nelson, 2 nights

Today is a highlight of the tour for many people – everyone has seen stunning photos of Abel Tasman National Park and now you’re here. Take your pick from a full scenic cruise or a cruise/walk combo to hike a section of the coastal track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Find out how a recent crowd funded initiative increased the area our country's smallest national park to protect even more of this iconic landscape. The coast is dotted with islands just offshore, sheltered bays, estuaries and golden sand beaches. Lie on the beach, or go for a swim, keeping your eye out for dolphins who often make an appearance. The park is sheltered from ocean swells and enjoys fantastic weather all year round. After your magical day out we'll return to Nelson for another night. Read more

Nelson, 2 nights

We depart Nelson leaving the orchards and artisans behind for the foothills of the Southern Alps and Canterbury. The road travels through the picturesque countryside of the upper South Island before traversing the Southern Alps at the Lewis Pass and continuing on to Methven at the foot of the mountains. *Due to long term road closures we have amended our itinerary and will stay in Methven until the northern road to Kaikoura is open again. Read more

Methven, 1 night

Waking up at the foot of the Southern Alps in the distance, it's just a short hop to visit Akaunui Homestead, a working farm and Canterbury heritage building surrounded by huge gardens. They'll show us round their farm and home, as we enjoy great Kiwi company and fresh produce straight from the garden of our friends, Di and Ian Mackenzie. After lunch we continue on our journey through Burke's Pass to the spectacular Mackenzie Country for sweeping vistas of tussock lands and the Southern Alps. We’ll make plenty for stops en route, we can’t miss the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo and the unreal turquoise blue of Lake Pukaki. No, we don’t put dye in the lake, it’s that blue! Read more

Mount Cook, 1 night

Always a memorable time on tour, your day in Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and ‘home ground’ of the most famous Kiwi of all, Sir Edmund Hillary. Take your pick from exploring the dramatic landscape on one of the many easy walking tracks around the village, or make it an experience you’ll never forget with a boat cruise on the glacial lake, a scenic flight or a heli hike high up on the Tasman Glacier! After lunch we’ll head south, over the Lindis Pass and through the rugged scenery of the Kawarau Gorge onto Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand. We’ll all head up the Gondola to Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views to give you a bird’s eye view of the stunning Wakatipu. Tonight take your pick from the best of Queenstown's restaurants and bars, all an easy walk from our home for the next three nights! Read more

Queenstown, 3 nights

Today is all about the one and only Milford Sound, from Queenstown we follow the shores of the great southern lakes before heading into the heart of Fiordland National Park on the spectacular Milford Road. On arrival at Milford cruise by launch out onto the sound, dominated by iconic Mitre Peak and home to birdlife, seal colonies and pods of dolphins. A magical flight over the Southern Alps returns us to Queenstown at the end of a fantastic day of touring by land, sea and air. The very best of Milford. Read more

Queenstown, 3 nights

Today is yours to make the most of the infinite choice of day tours and activities Queenstown has to offer, your "Kiwi Guide" will be right there to help. What do we love in Queenstown? A jet boat ride on the remote and beautiful Dart River in "The Lord of the Rings" scenery, walking along the lakeshore and the Botanic Gardens or take a thrilling raft ride on the Kawarau River. Other favourites are wine tasting in the celebrated boutique vineyards of Central Otago, golf on one of New Zealand’s best courses, a day walk on the famous Routeburn Track or cruising Lake Wakatipu on the 1912 Steamship, the TSS "Earnslaw". Read more

Queenstown, 3 nights

Our day starts with a short hop to leafy Arrowtown, where gold mining history comes alive beside the Arrow River and in the excellent museum. Then we head into tussock country for the climb up the Crown Range and our last views of the beautiful Wakatipu basin. We call into picture perfect Cardrona Hotel, its history dates back to the colonial era, then continue on to Wanaka. We relax with fine wines and the chance to meet locals over lunch at their Wanaka lakeside home. Hmm, anyone thinking of moving here yet? Our hotel this evening is right on the lake edge, you’ve got plenty of time after lunch to discover this lovely lakeside town for yourself. Bike the waterfront trail, get out on the lake in a kayak or head next door to Rippon Vineyard for wine tasting with a view. Read more

Wanaka, 1 night

Today is a quintessential kiwi day, where else in the world can you visit the seaside, a rainforest and a glacier all in the same day? In New Zealand, no worries! We start off following the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before reaching the pristine mountain and river scenery of the Mount Aspiring National Park. Then it’s up and over the Haast Pass through beech forests, past cascading waterfalls and clear blue pools before following the Haast River out to the sea. There’s plenty of time for short walks and photo stops on the way, we’re in no hurry. Once we hit the coast let’s head north through the lush, prehistoric Gondwanaland forest of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, stopping at Ship Creek to stroll the beach, keep your eye out for dolphins feeding in the shallows. More stops along the way as we hit glacier country, get your cameras ready for Lake Matheson’s famous reflections and our first glimpse of Fox Glacier descending from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Our home for the next two nights is Franz Josef. Read more

Franz Josef, 2 nights

We’ve got the whole day to enjoy the beauty of this remote corner of the country, a place many Kiwis don’t even get to visit. This is the best part of New Zealand to get to the glaciers, that’s why we’re here! Your choice of a stunning walk to the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier, or get right out on the ice on a heli hike or glacier landing. Everyone loves Okarito, a tiny settlement nestled between the Tasman Sea and Okarito Lagoon, take your pick from guided kayaking or a wildlife cruise on the shallow waters of the lagoon, a feeding ground of the extremely rare white heron (kotuku) which breeds nearby in the Waitangi Roto Nature Reserve. For pure relaxation take a soak in hot pools fed by pure glacier water. Read more

Franz Josef, 2 nights

Discover, the ‘wild’ west coast of the South Island, we head north through countryside dotted with little lakes and boulder strewn rivers, all under the watchful eye of the mighty Southern Alps in the distance. Coffee time in Hokitika, once a real centre of commerce and the setting for the colonial epic ’The Luminaries’. Hokitika people are crafty folk and of course, it’s the Pounamu (greenstone) capital of the country and you’ll have the chance to visit the carvers as well as glass blowing, wood and copper artisans. Our journey continues north to Paparoa National Park and Punakaiki, where our surroundings change dramatically, the alps have retreated and are replaced by towering limestone cliffs, draped with tropical looking forest, including New Zealand’s only native palm tree, the Nikau Palm. Punakaiki is home to the Pancake Rocks, sculpted limestone sea stacks and towering cliffs. Your ‘Kiwi Guide’ will let you know the perfect time to visit to see the blowholes at full force. Our home tonight is a stunning spot right on the beach, perfect a drink on the beach to celebrate our last sunset together! Read more

Punakaiki, 1 night

Wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, cross New Zealand’s main divide, traverse the stunning Canterbury High Country and cross the plains into the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch. To do this in most countries would take days or weeks, in New Zealand it’s easy, we’ve even got plenty on the way of time for short walks and photo stops. Nice one, New Zealand! Highlights will be the Otira Viaduct, a spectacular cantilevered road through towering mountains to Arthur’s Pass National Park, with dramatic views from the lookout at the top of the Gorge and one of the best places in the country to see the hilarious antics of our alpine parrot, the Kea. Stretch your legs in the beech forests at Arthur’s Pass National Park and again at the massive limestone rocks rising out of bare pasture at Castle Hill before we descend Porter’s Pass to the Canterbury Plains reaching Christchurch in the late afternoon. Read more

Christchurch, 1 night

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the last day of your tour in Christchurch, we'll drop you off at the airport for your flight home after your New Zealand "Trip of a Lifetime". Your hotel is right on the edge of Hagley Park so take the time for one last walk through the botanical gardens, a scenic tram ride through the streets or even a punt on the treelined Avon River. We call Christchurch the most English city outside England and it’s easy to see why. Catch up on last minute shopping for New Zealand favourites such as merino clothing or manuka honey. Thank you for choosing to travel with MoaTrek New Zealand Tours. Ka kite ano – “See you again”. Read more