South & North: Relaxed and Family-Friendly

From Christchurch, cross the hedge-lined patchwork of farmland that spans the Canterbury Plains. Once we reach the small town of Fairlie, we recommend trying New Zealand's most famous savory lunch – a fresh pie encased in fluffy, delicious pastry. Continuing, we ascend to the golden tussock heights of Mackenzie Country, a big-sky, alpine region of vast blue lakes and dramatic mountain scenery. If you've seen a postcard from New Zealand, it could easily be from this very region!

We continue onwards to the beautiful Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. The region boasts some of the clearest skies in the country, so be sure to peer outside your hotel room and admire the night sky.

We depart Lake Tekapo and set out through a high country region of magnificent vistas, with rolling tussock, breathtaking alpine takes and in the background the highest peaks in New Zealand.

We'll stop by Lake Pukaki for superb views of snow-covered Mt Cook, the highest summit in New Zealand at 3,724m.

The region is known for its alpine salmon, and and we'll be stop by an alpine salmon farm you'll have the opportunity to purchase some of the local sashimi or simple feed the fish.

We continue to the crossroads of Omarama, where we stop by to visit the photogenic, eroded slopes of the Clay Cliffs. Continuing over the scenic tussock-covered slopes of the Lindis Pass, and descending to Tarras, where the Tarras Country Cafe offers a worthwhile stop. Lord of the Rings enthusiasts may feel the Tarras area is strikingly familiar - it's where the Flight to the Ford scene was filmed.

Finally, we come to the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka.

All interests are catered to in Wanaka, and your guide stands ready to customise your time here to best suit your personal interests.

For families, the Wanaka Lavender Farm and Stuart Landsborough's Puzzling World are both popular option. Hikers may be keen to join the locals summiting Mt Iron, for the best view over town. We can also take you to catch your own salmon - hook one up and have it prepared just the way you like it.

Wanaka also offers some of the best jetboat rides anywhere in the country. Out of town, the drive north past beautiful Lake Hawea leads to the stunning Blue Pools, which is a lovely 1 hour walk into the rainforest.

We set out today for the rugged, tussock-covered beauty of the Crown Range. At the high point of the route are expansive views toward the valleys below, including Queenstown.

We'll follow the winding descent and stop by the for a visit of the historic township of Arrowtown, where gold was discovered in 1861. The town is one of delightful old cottages and fine avenues of trees making it an excellent place for pleasant cafe stop.

Depending on your interests, a tastings at some of wineries of the Gibbston Valley may be of interest, or perhaps a visit to the iconic Kawarau Bungy, before continuing into the thriving hub of Queenstown.

Don't be surprised if you feel like you've stepped onto a film set, because you just might have! We'll stop at several scenic locations you might recognize from the movies.

Enjoy superb vistas from the charming Glenorchy Wharf, or take a relaxed stroll among the photogenic weeping willows at the Glenorchy Boardwalk.

A drive towards the aptly named town of Paradise will take you to The Hillocks, offering views of the mountain backdrop of Isengard from Lord of the Rings.

Beyond the magnificent mountain scenery, the area offers some great activities, including fun, family-friendly FunYaks rafting. Perhaps you'd prefer horseriding or a jetboat journey up the Dart Valley.

If you're interested in a relaxed rainforest hike, we'll drive through mountain valleys and picturesque sheep stations to the majestic Routeburn Valley. Here, you can enjoy a one-hour, 3.2km (2-mile) nature loop through the lush rainforest.

We board a morning flight from Queenstown bound for Auckland, and set out directly from the airport, crossing the rolling farmland of the Waikato bound for Hobbiton, a major thrill for Lord of the Rings fans! Step into the lush pastures of The Shire and experience this remarkable landscape. We'll take a guided tour of the movie set and learn fascinating information about not only Lord of the Rings but also the local film industry. Whether or not you’re a fan of the movies - the rolling green country-side and cute hobbit houses appeal to all.

We continue to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal hotspot. The smell of sulphur will hit you immediately upon arrival. For those who want to take a soak in the geothermal baths and pools, we can arrange an optional pampering session available at a thermal hot spring.

This morning, visit one or more of the thermal areas for which the region is so renowned, with bubbling mud, steam vents, geysers and hot pools.

Later, head to Whakarewarewa - Rotorua's redwood forest. You can enjoy the forest at ground level, or for an extra fee set out on a tree walk encompassing a series of 28 suspension bridges, traversing between 27 majestic 117-year-old Redwood Trees.

Garden enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Government Gardens, near the town center.

We set out from Rotorua for a memorable experience at one of the geothermal highlights of Rotorua, the famous mud spa at Hell's Gate. Experience for yourself the waters once bathed in by Māori warriors. As the mud gently exfoliates your skin, take part in a soothing experience that has been enjoyed by locals for centuries. You may optionally wish to add a walk through the geothermal area of which the mud spa forms a small part.

Note: If you prefer not to do a mud bath, no problem! We can switch you to visiting Orakei Korako instead.

Continuing, we make our way towards the captivating Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake. Prepare to be enthralled by the beauty of this expansive body of water. Upon arrival, we'll embark on a delightful boat cruise that takes us from the magnificent Aratiatia Rapids to Huka Falls. Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as the gates of the Aratiatia Dam are opened, transforming the tranquil river into a rushing torrent of water. The sight of the rapids in full flow is truly breathtaking and offers a thrilling experience.

Afterward, we'll take a leisurely stroll along the serene shores of Lake Taupo. Enjoy the tranquillity and immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings. The lake's crystal-clear waters and the stunning backdrop of rolling hills provide a perfect setting for a peaceful walk. Take in the fresh air, admire the beauty of nature, and perhaps even dip your toes in the inviting waters if you desire.

Set out from Taupo for an ancient limestone region best known for its vast cave systems, displaying stunning arrays of stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by glow worms.

We venture underground, into the depths of the limestone caverns. Get ready to embark on a truly extraordinary experience. Shaped by nature over millions of years, the caves are adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, creating an awe-inspiring underground landscape. A guided tour will lead us through fascinating chambers, where you'll marvel at the intricate formations and learn about the geological history of the caves.

What truly sets the Waitomo Caves apart is the breathtaking spectacle of glowworms. Thousands of these tiny bioluminescent creatures create a mesmerising starry glow on the cave ceilings, resembling a celestial display. As we gently drift along the underground river on a boat, you'll be immersed in this magical scene, as if traversing through a galaxy of sparkling lights. The tranquillity and ethereal beauty of the glowworms make for an unforgettable and almost surreal experience.

We'll then continue on the two hour drive up to Auckland.