AUCKLAND

Day 1 - 4

Set between two natural harbours and within a one hour drive from rugged beaches, rainforest and wildlife reserves, Auckland is perfect for those looking to relax yet enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of a big city. Rated as one of the world’s top cities for quality of life, Auckland is a modern hub and offers a warm climate. Visit the the impressive Art Gallery and Auckland Museum to learn about New Zealand’s culture and Maori heritage, before meandering in the city’s multicultural market of Otara or taking a hike up impressive volcanic Mount Eden.

ROTORUA

Day 4 - 6

The odour of Rotorua’s sulphur-rich air certainly hasn’t stopped the city from becoming popular with tourists, having welcomed visitors for over 100 years. Set on a lake of the same name, the geothermal activity in the area is one of the most concentrated in the world, and mineral deposits line its shores bright orange and green. The naturally hot water lured the Maori to settle here, and the area still holds a large Maori population today making it an excellent spot to experience New Zealand’s culture and tradition.

WAITOMO

Day 6 - 7

Waitomo is a district in the North Island of New Zealand whose main feature is its limestone caves and their glowworm inhabitants, a major tourist attraction.

WELLINGTON

Day 7 - 9

Surrounded by hills and a quaint harbour and with steep, winding streets and Victorian era architecture, New Zealand’s buzzing capital has something to offer for everyone. Home to a unique craft beer and coffee culture, as well as a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, the city hosts various festivals in addition to its many theatres, galleries and museums. Be sure to visit the renowned Te Papa museum and admire the city’s colourful rooftops from Mount Victoria before sampling one of Wellington’s excellent restaurants and bars.

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

Day 9 - 11

Taking up 150km of New Zealand’s coastline, the Marlborough Sounds are a picturesque maze of bays, islands, beaches and sea-covered valleys, rising from the water and merging into green wilderness and open farmland. Most visits to the area begin in Picton, and the narrow and winding roads stretching 35km along Queen Charlotte Drive make for an excellent scenic car journey, although more remote areas are accessible only by boat. Take time to enjoy the Sounds activities; from kayaking, tramping and biking as well as diving in its clear waters.

HANMER SPRINGS

Day 11 - 13

Hanmer Springs is a small spa resort in the South Island of New Zealand.

CHRISTCHURCH

Day 13 - 15

Despite the 2011 earthquake which devastated much of the city, Christchurch is changing and rapidly redeveloping itself into a popular destination once again. The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch’s flourishing and pedestrianised city centre is filled with lush botanic gardens and trees, and offers as a gateway to explore the nearby epic nature. Just a short drive away are the hidden bays and beaches of the Banks Peninsula, as well as Arthur’s Pass and Lake Tekapo.

DUNEDIN

Day 15 - 16

The second largest city of the country’s South Island and with a recognisable Scottish heritage, Dunedin is a cultural hub. Known as The Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin prides itself on its history and friendly locals. Being a student city and home to New Zealand’s oldest University of Otago means that there is a lively atmosphere and vibrant arts scene within the heart of its compact city centre. Surrounded by a harbour and hills, remnants of an extinct volcano, as well as suburbs boasting sandy beaches, Dunedin is sure to charm its visitors.

STEWART ISLAND

Day 16 - 18

Stewart Island is the third largest island of New Zealand after the South Island and the North Island. It lies 30 km to the south of the South Island, separated from it by Foveaux Strait. With an area of 1,746 km² (674 mi²), it is far smaller than the two main islands, but is nearly twice the size of the next largest island, Chatham Island with 920 km² (355 mi²), and far bigger than all the other small islands of the temperate New Zealand archipelago. Its original Maori name of Te Punga o Te Waka a Maui positions Stewart Island firmly at the heart of Maori mythology. Translated as "The Anchor Stone of Maui's Canoe", this refers to the part played by this island in the legend of Maui and his crew who, from their canoe (the South Island), caught and raised the great fish, the North Island. However, the more commonly used name is Rakiura. Translated as "The great and deep blushing of Te Rakitamau", an early Maori chief, it is seen today as the glowing sunrises, sunsets and the aurora australis or Southern Lights.

QUEENSTOWN (NEW ZEALAND)

Day 18 - 21

Widely known as the ‘adventure capital of the world’ and for good reason, Queenstown is a haven for adrenaline junkies. The birthplace of the bungee-jump, the city draws in visitors year-round to experience its exciting attractions. In spite of this, Queenstown offers something for everyone, boasting spectacular views from its harbour or from the top of Bob’s Peak which can be reached with the Skyline Gondola. By night, the compact centre offers excellent dining options as well as lively nightlife.

AUCKLAND

Day 21 - 22

Set between two natural harbours and within a one hour drive from rugged beaches, rainforest and wildlife reserves, Auckland is perfect for those looking to relax yet enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of a big city. Rated as one of the world’s top cities for quality of life, Auckland is a modern hub and offers a warm climate. Visit the the impressive Art Gallery and Auckland Museum to learn about New Zealand’s culture and Maori heritage, before meandering in the city’s multicultural market of Otara or taking a hike up impressive volcanic Mount Eden.