Classic New Zealand Highlights Guided Tour
15 Days | 14 Nights
Price per person from
$6,399pp
*Based on double occupancy
Land Only
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Discover New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes on the Classic New Zealand Highlights Tour, travelling from Auckland to Queenstown aboard four world-famous journeys. From the volcanic heart of the North Island to the Marlborough Sounds, Pacific Coast and breathtaking Southern Alps, this itinerary showcases the best of New Zealand by rail, sea and road.
- 14 Nights Standard/Superior Accommodation
- 14 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
- 3 Rail Experiences including Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Enjoy the storytelling of your tour director
Description
Experience the very best of New Zealand on this unforgettable 15-day journey, combining world-famous rail adventures with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Travelling from Auckland to Queenstown, this immersive itinerary showcases the country’s incredible diversity, from volcanic plateaus and alpine peaks to pristine coastlines and ancient rainforests.
Your adventure begins in cosmopolitan Auckland before boarding the iconic Northern Explorer, winding through the dramatic heart of the North Island to Tongariro National Park. Continue to Wellington, where culture, cuisine and waterfront charm await, before crossing the spectacular Cook Strait aboard the Interislander ferry and entering the tranquil beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.
In the South Island, discover the renowned wine region of Marlborough before travelling on the stunning Coastal Pacific train, where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Explore Kaikōura’s rich marine environment with optional whale watching or dolphin encounters, then spend time uncovering the charm and resilience of Christchurch.
The adventure continues aboard the legendary TranzAlpine, crossing the Southern Alps through magnificent river valleys and dramatic mountain scenery before venturing into the wild landscapes of the West Coast. Discover ancient rainforests, the famous Pancake Rocks and the remarkable Franz Josef Glacier before travelling through the spectacular Haast Pass to Queenstown.
With ample free time to personalize your experience, optional adventures ranging from scenic flights and glacier excursions to Milford Sound cruises and wine tasting allow you to create your perfect holiday. Blending iconic rail travel, stunning natural beauty and authentic local experiences, this extraordinary journey offers a comprehensive exploration of New Zealand that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Price
Travel Dates |
Price* | |
|---|---|---|
| *Based on double occupancy | ||
| Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 9, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Oct 9, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Oct 30, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Nov 20, 2026 - Dec 4, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Dec 4, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Dec 11, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Jan 22, 2027 - Feb 5, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Jan 29, 2027 - Feb 12, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Feb 12, 2027 - Feb 26, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Feb 19, 2027 - Mar 12, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Mar 5, 2027 - Mar 19, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Mar 12, 2027 - Mar 26, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Apr 2, 2027 - Apr 16, 2027 | from $6,399pp * | |
| Apr 23, 2027 - May 7, 2027 | from $6,599pp * | |
*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements apply. Valid for set departure dates. Must be booked by October 31, 2026 or until sold out. Prices are current at time of posting (6/21/2026) and may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed, due to fuel surcharges and currency fluctuations. All pricing is strictly subject to availability. All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices. CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531 | PC-1282498.
Inclusions
- 14 Nights Standard/Superior Accommodation
- 14 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
- Discover Middle Earth's volcanic peaks in Tongariro National Park
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral and Otira Tunnel
- Spend a day with whales, dolphins and sea life in Kaikōura
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style road trip
- Enjoy the storytelling of your tour director
Exclusions
- International Airfare
- New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free App or NZ$23 if completed online PLUS the IVL of NZ$100). Payable on application.
Map
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Welcome to Auckland (D)
Begin your New Zealand adventure in vibrant Auckland, the “City of Sails.” After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace - perhaps ascend the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views, browse the boutiques along Queen Street or unwind with a drink in the hidden laneways of Vulcan Lane. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner, the perfect introduction to the journey ahead.
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Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter
(Superior)
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Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter
(Superior)
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Day 2 – Northern Explorer Rail Journey to Ohakune (B)
Board the legendary Northern Explorer for one of the world’s great scenic rail journeys. Travel through the fertile Waikato countryside and into the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, crossing historic viaducts and the famous Raurimu Spiral. Arrive in Ohakune for a two-night stay surrounded by spectacular alpine scenery.
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Powderhorn Chateau
(Superior)
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Powderhorn Chateau
(Superior)
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Day 3 – Discover Tongariro National Park (B)
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage region. Relax in natural hot tubs, stroll scenic trails or hire an e-bike to cycle the historic Old Coach Road, passing tunnels, viaducts and native forests.
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Powderhorn Chateau
(Superior)
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Powderhorn Chateau
(Superior)
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Day 4 – Rail Journey to Wellington (B)
After a visit to the slopes of Mt Ruapehu, rejoin the Northern Explorer and continue south through dramatic gorges, rolling farmland and coastal scenery before arriving in Wellington. Spend the evening discovering New Zealand’s vibrant capital, renowned for its dining, arts and waterfront atmosphere.
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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
(Superior)
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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
(Superior)
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Day 5 – Explore Wellington (B,D)
Today is yours to experience Wellington your way. Visit the acclaimed Te Papa Museum, wander colourful Cuba Street, ride the cable car or explore the native wildlife sanctuary of Zealandia. This evening, reconnect with your group over dinner.
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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
(Superior)
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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
(Superior)
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Day 6 – Cruise the Cook Strait (B)
Sail aboard the iconic Interislander ferry across Cook Strait and through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Admire secluded coves, forested hills and sparkling waterways before arriving in the heart of Marlborough.
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Picton Beachcomber Inn
(Superior)
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Picton Beachcomber Inn
(Superior)
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Day 7 – Coastal Pacific to Kaikōura (B)
Enjoy free time in charming Picton before boarding the Coastal Pacific train. Journey through renowned wine country and along one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastlines, where mountains meet the sea. Arrive in Kaikōura, famous for its marine life and exceptional seafood.
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Sudima Kaikoura
(Superior)
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Sudima Kaikoura
(Superior)
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Day 8 – Wildlife Encounters & Christchurch (B,D)
Choose from unforgettable optional experiences including whale watching, dolphin encounters or scenic flights over Kaikōura’s dramatic coastline. Later, continue aboard the Coastal Pacific to Christchurch, enjoying ever-changing coastal vistas along the way.
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Rydges Latimar Christchurch
(Superior)
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Rydges Latimar Christchurch
(Superior)
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Day 9 – Explore Christchurch (B,D)
Spend the day discovering Christchurch, where heritage architecture meets innovative urban design. Ride the historic tram, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, punt along the Avon River or explore the city’s galleries, cafés and vibrant arts precincts.
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Rydges Latimar Christchurch
(Superior)
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Rydges Latimar Christchurch
(Superior)
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Day 10 – TranzAlpine & Punakaiki (B)
Experience the world-famous TranzAlpine, crossing the majestic Southern Alps through spectacular mountain scenery, river valleys and engineering marvels. Continue by coach to Punakaiki to marvel at the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
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Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
(Superior)
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Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
(Superior)
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Day 11 – Glacier Country (B)
Walk among towering rainforest on the West Coast Tree Top Walk before travelling to Franz Josef Glacier. View this extraordinary glacier from scenic lookouts or elevate the experience with an optional helicopter flight. Spend the evening relaxing in the alpine village.
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Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
(Superior)
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Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
(Superior)
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Day 12 – Haast Pass to Queenstown (B)
Travel one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes through Haast Pass, where waterfalls, glaciers, rivers and mountain peaks create unforgettable landscapes. Stop in historic Arrowtown before arriving in Queenstown, the country’s adventure capital.
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Day 13 – Queenstown at Leisure (B)
Enjoy a full day to experience Queenstown your way. Perhaps join an excursion to magnificent Milford Sound, cruise aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw or simply soak up the atmosphere from the cafés and restaurants overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Day 14 – Your Queenstown Adventure (B,D)
Make the most of your final full day with optional activities including wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, horse trekking, lake cruises or alpine adventures. This evening, celebrate your incredible journey with a memorable farewell dinner.
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
(Superior)
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Day 15 – Farewell New Zealand (B)
After breakfast, your unforgettable rail and scenic adventure comes to an end. Extend your stay in Queenstown or continue your travels, taking with you lasting memories of New Zealand’s extraordinary landscapes and warm hospitality.