19 Day The Long White Cloud

Travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps aboard TranzAlpine train. From Arthur’s Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, and meet a local greenstone (jade) carver. Later we continue to Franz Josef, where you’ll spend two nights in an eco-friendly retreat.

Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef (2 nights) (B, D)

After a relaxed start we explore this area, where a local guide explains the history behind the Franz Josef Glacier. (B)

This morning it’s time for an adventure as we travel in a purpose-built fully enclosed river jet boat and journey down the Haast River. After a lunch break at Makarora we head to Queenstown, taking time to stop and explore the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown on the Arrow River, and then an orientation tour on arrival.

Stay: St Moritz (3 nights) (B, D)

Today, select your choice of sightseeing: consider a day indulging in the region’s vintages on a wine tour. View the Lord of Rings film locations and scenery of Queenstown, and Glenorchy on a scenic tour, or spend time in the spa indulging in a relaxing massage (B)

Today, why not brace some of Queenstown’s most daring activities. This evening, enjoy a Local Dining Experience at one of Queenstown’s exclusive restaurants. (B, D)

Venture to Te Anau and then deep within the Fiordland National Park. Drive through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel and emerge into a photographer’s paradise where glaciers and peaks give way to the unexpected beauty of Mirror Lake. You’ll stop to explore the wonder of the Chasm Walk before arriving at Milford Sound Lodge, with its exquisite views of the Cleddau Valley.

Stay: Milford Sound Lodge (2 nights) (B, D)

Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. This morning, board the Southern Discoveries vessel for a half day exploration of Milford Sound. Sail out to the Tasman sea looking for wildlife and an opportunity to go sea kayaking in Harrisons Cove. (B, L, D)

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the picturesque of South Otago. Travel through the musical town of Gore, before arriving in Dunedin.

Stay: Distinction Hotel, Dunedin (2 nights) (B, D)

This morning, join an exclusive tour of Larnach Castle. Spend the afternoon at leisure. (B)

Travel up the east coast through Omarau. Back in Christchurch, embark on a sightseeing tour of the city.

Stay: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch (B, D)

Travel along the Pacific coast to the whale-watching capital of Kaikoura. Continue to the seaside village of Picton. Later cross the Cook Strait to Wellington for a city sightseeing tour, and then visit Te Papa Museum of New Zealand.

Stay: Sofitel Wellington (2 nights) (B, D)

Today is at leisure. Perhaps join a Lord of the Rings movie tour, or even a cruise to Somes Island in Wellington Harbour. This evening why not venture down to the harbour to dine at a local restaurant or café. (B)

Travel through the fertile farming land of the Wairarapa on to Napier in Hawke’s Bay. Enjoy time to relax after the day’s adventures before joining your Journey Director for dinner at your hotel

Stay: Porters Boutique Hotel, Hawke’s Bay (2 nights) (B, D)

Enjoy a relaxed start before you venture out to explore Napier. Join a local guide for a walking tour where you’ll gain an insight into the city’s Art Deco style. This evening, enjoy wine-tasting and Local Dining Experience at one of their world-famous wineries. (B, D)

Enjoy a leisurely start before continuing the journey to nearby Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, before arriving in Rotorua for a sightseeing tour. Later, visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Maori life. This evening, your Local Dining Experience is an authentic Maori Hangi and concert at the Tamaki Maori Village.

Stay: Pullman Hotel, Rotorua (B, D)

Ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird’s eye view of the 115-year old redwood giants redwood giants. Next stop is Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Discover native flora that grows around the crystal clear mineral water springs and you might even spot a kiwi or two. (B)

Make your way to the famous Waitomo Caves for an exclusive 5-star Eco Glowworm experience. Later, travel through the dairy farming district of Waikato, and onto Auckland. This evening, toast your trip together at a Celebration Dinner.

Stay: Sofitel, Auckland (B, D)

Time to say farewell as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and you are transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. (B)