Day 1 | Auckland

After recovering from the long flight in the morning, we'll start our introduction to Auckland, known as the "City of Sails," a famous jumping point for sailing competitions. Our first stop in the city will be at Auckland Domain Park, a public park where we'll stroll and get impressed by the city's unique character. As part of the tour, we'll have an initial encounter with Maori culture at the Auckland Museum. Continuing along the coast, we'll reach the special Mission Bay and ascend for a breathtaking view from the Sky Tower. In the evening, we'll return to our hotel, and there will be free time for a shared activity and dinner. (B)

Day 2 | Auckland – Rotorua

This morning, we'll leave Auckland and travel south towards the city of Rotorua. En route, we'll stop for a visit to the Te Puia site, where we'll walk among the boiling mud pools and geysers that erupt several times a day. From here, we'll continue to Rotorua, located in the heart of the northern volcanic zone, on the shores of Lake Rotorua, the largest of all the lakes in the region. Rotorua is considered a significant backpacker center and also as a center for learning the Maori heritage. During our tour in the area, we'll visit Maori heritage sites. In the afternoon, we'll go for a walking tour to beautiful waterfalls. We'll arrange for the evening to visit the Maori village of Maori Marae, experience a unique anthropological experience, try to cope with a unique challenge (poi), and enjoy a special folk performance. We'll also enjoy a meal that includes a traditional earth-cooked hangi. Overnight stay in Rotorua. (B, D)

Day 3 | Rotorua – Tongariro National Park

A long and rich day awaits us. In the morning, we'll start with a special cruise on Lake Rotorua. On a traditional Maori canoe, we'll have breakfast while enjoying a unique and different view of the impressive volcanic area of Rotorua: Kahuha, Sulphur Bay, and other landmarks on a special morning cruise. After the cruise, we'll start our journey south through giant forests of tall fir trees towards Taupo, the largest lake in the North Island. We'll stop on the way at the Huka Falls and other highlights during the morning cruise. After the cruise, we'll continue south through giant fir tree forests toward Lake Taupo, the largest lake in the North Island. We'll stop on the way at Huka Falls and other points of interest on our way to Taupo, and then continue south to the village of Waihaha Paha, passing through extensive agricultural farms. By noon, we'll arrive at Tongariro National Park, enter the reserve, and conduct a number of walking tours in it. We'll be impressed by the impressive Taranaki Falls. We'll continue to stroll in the reserve as much as time allows, and stay overnight in the area.

Day 4 | Tongariro – Napier

Today, we'll have a chance to enjoy a bit more of the magical landscapes of Tongariro National Park. We'll embark on a long drive along a mountainous road, passing through beautiful streams and ascending towards Napier. This city is situated on the shores of Hawke's Bay, next to the extinct volcanic mountain covered entirely in sea mist. Napier was nearly destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1963 but was rebuilt in the Art Deco style, making it an interesting tourist city. Upon our arrival in Napier, we'll take a short tour through the city center, exploring its charming streets. Overnight stay in Napier. (B)

Day 5 | Napier – Cape Kidnappers - Wellington

This morning, we'll set out on a one-and-a-half-hour journey in tractor-pulled trailers towards the Pacific Ocean coast, near the impressive cliffs to visit the giant colony of Gannet birds, known locally as "Sula" birds. The colony is perched on a high cliff that we'll ascend with an easy foot climb. From here, we'll continue on a long southern drive through picturesque towns known for their giant vineyards producing exquisite wine. Passing through the Motueka Ranges, we'll gradually enter the capital city, Wellington. Upon our arrival, we'll enjoy an overview of the magnificent city and its rich harbor. (B)

Day 6 | Wellington – Picton – Nelson

This morning, we'll explore the capital city, Wellington, starting with the historic St. Paul's Cathedral built in colonial Gothic style. We'll also be impressed by the New Zealand Parliament buildings. We'll continue with a visit to the botanical gardens before crossing to Te Papa, the ferry terminal connecting the islands. From here, we'll embark on a cruise on Cook Strait crossing through the Marlborough Sounds (Marlborough Sounds) over its densely vegetated hills, towards the afternoon, we'll reach the anchorage from where we'll continue to the southern Picton, passing through breathtaking landscapes. We'll continue our journey to the coastal town of Nelson in the evening. (B)

Day 7 | Abel Tasman National Park

One of the beautiful days of the trip is dedicated to Abel Tasman National Park, named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman. We'll start the morning with a splendid cruise between its crystal-clear waters and small lagoons, exploring the park's scenery. A day of kayaking between golden sandy bays, intricate forests, and diverse bird and marine life awaits us. After the cruise, we'll return to Nelson for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 8 | Nelson – Kaikoura – Christchurch

This morning, we'll leave Nelson and travel south along the beautiful coastal roads between valleys and rivers. We'll arrive at the town of Kaikoura, where we'll embark on another cruise (subject to weather conditions) to observe dolphins, and if we're lucky, we might also see the Orca killer whale, the native New Zealand fur seals, and especially the impressive stars of the tour, the dusky dolphins. After the cruise, we'll continue south along the northeastern coast, and if we're fortunate, we might see the colonies of sea lions basking in the warm sun. Toward the afternoon, we'll arrive in the city of Christchurch for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 9 | Christchurch – Alpine Train – Pancake Rocks – Greymouth

This morning, after breakfast, we'll leave the hotel in Christchurch and head to the train station to board the TranzAlpine Express train towards Arthur's Pass. We'll experience a breathtaking journey passing through massive bridges over stunning gorges, through tunnels, and along the high ridges of the Southern Alps. Around noon, after a spectacular train ride, we'll reach the visitor center of Lake Arthur, from where we'll continue our journey to the Pancake Rocks. We'll take a short walk to view the impressive rock formations and the powerful Tasman Sea crashing against the rocks. At the end of the route, we'll descend to Greymouth, where we'll spend the night.

Day 10 | Mini Ice Trekking on Franz Josef Glacier

This morning, we will travel along the western coast to the glacier area of Franz Josef and Fox. Along the way, we will stop at Hokitika, a significant center for mining and various artistic works related to the local stones, jade, known here as Pounamu. We will reach Franz Josef Glacier, equip ourselves with suitable gear, and embark on a two-hour walk within the glacier, engaging in mini ice trekking. From the high trail, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the glacier's icy expanse. We'll continue walking downhill after securing our crampons and special gear. If weather permits and there is interest, we will explore the option of helicopter flights over the giant glaciers. Accommodation in the glacier area.

Day 11 | Glacier Region – Lakes Region - Queenstown

This morning, we will rise early in the glacier region and embark on a short hiking tour around Lake Matheson, also known as "Mirror Lake," reflecting New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook, on clear days. After the special walking tour, we will continue our journey through the picturesque lakes and valleys of the Southern Alps until we reach the quaint town of Haast. From there, we'll ascend through the mountain pass to the peaceful town of Wanaka, located on the shores of Lake Wanaka. If time and weather permit, we may explore the option of helicopter flights over the surrounding peaks. Accommodation in Queenstown.

Day 12 | Queenstown - Jet Boating

Today, we will embark on excursions around Queenstown. In the morning, we will travel along the Dart River, considered part of the Fiordland National Park, and explore the surroundings of Lake Wakatipu. Later in the day, we will engage in a thrilling jet boating experience on the river, equipped with waterproof gear. We'll embark on a fascinating journey amidst the majestic mountain ranges and pristine nature reserves, enjoying breathtaking views that are only accessible by jet boats. After this special day, we will return to our accommodation in Queenstown.

Day 13 | Queenstown – Glowworm Cave – Te Anau

This morning, we will continue our exploration of the Fiordland, the largest and wildest region of New Zealand. We'll embark on a short guided walk through one of the green and beautiful areas surrounding the town of Te Anau. From there, we will travel to the Kepler Track area and visit the glowworm caves of Lake Te Anau. This "secret cave" is a beautiful display of illuminated glowworms. During the unique tour, we will be introduced to the fascinating world of the small and captivating creature, the "fungus gnat." The extraordinary tour will combine walking alongside an underground waterfall and a short boat ride with thousands of glowworms shining overhead. After the tour, we'll return to Te Anau for accommodation.

Day 14 | Te Anau – Milford Sound

This morning, we will journey along the Milford Road, a breathtaking route between mirror-like lakes, rock-hewn tunnels, and dozens of magnificent viewpoints overlooking the beech forests leading to the village of Milford Sound. We'll embark on a cruise through the fjord, sailing among massive waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and sea lions. The highlight of the cruise will be witnessing the impressive Mitre Peak, rising to an elevation of 1,695 meters above sea level. After the cruise, we'll return to Te Anau for accommodation.

Day 15 | Te Anau – Catlins Reserve

This morning, we will travel south towards the southern coastal areas of the South Island and pass through the Catlins Reserve. We'll explore rugged and pristine shorelines to observe sea lions and penguins. We will visit Nugget Point for a panoramic view of the southern coastline from Nugget Point Lighthouse. We'll explore additional sites based on available time, such as the 91-meter McLean Falls and the Cathedral Caves. Accommodation in Catlins.

Day 16 | Albatross and Penguin Colony - Dunedin

This morning, we will drive through the river plains and green areas of Southland to the picturesque Otago Peninsula. We'll visit the Royal Albatross Center, which overlooks the ocean at the edge of the peninsula. We'll observe the albatross colony and learn about their life cycle. In the afternoon, we'll visit the "Yellow-eyed Penguins" reserve, where we'll have the opportunity to witness the rare penguins and their natural activities from a close range. After the visits, we'll return to Dunedin for accommodation.

Day 17 | Oamaru – Mount Cook – Christchurch

We approach the end of our journey, and this morning, we will rise early for a journey to the national park showcasing New Zealand's alpine scenery – Mount Cook. One-third of the park's surface is covered by permanent snow and ice, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990. After exploring the park with nature walks, we will continue north to the turquoise lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, passing through charming towns and crossing the longest bridge in the country over the Rakaia River. Towards the evening, we'll arrive at Christchurch, where we'll take a final stroll through the city before the long journey back home.