New Zealand Explorer

New Zealand Explorer

41 Views
9 Days From

$2362

New Zealand Explorer

9 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Queenstown, New Zealand

Visiting: Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur276

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2362

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "New Zealand Explorer" tour, where you'll experience the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand. Begin your adventure in Auckland, exploring its volcanic history and iconic landmarks. Marvel at the glowworm-lit waters of the Waitomo Caves and immerse yourself in the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. Fly to Christchurch to enjoy its stunning views and historic sites before heading to Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of New Zealand, for a variety of outdoor activities. With superior accommodations, daily buffet breakfasts, and all transportation included, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Discover the past and present volcanic activity of Auckland, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire

  • Head on a fascinating tour of the Waitomo Caves, famous for their glowworm-illuminated waters

  • Visit Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland known for its stunning glaciers and hot springs

  • Marvel over the breathtaking views of Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand

  • Bask in the beauty of the Mount Cook and surroundings, the tallest peak in the country

  • Explore Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of New Zealand filled with outdoor activities

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Auckland (Arrival) (B/-/-)

Location: Auckland

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at the Auckland International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.




Overnight in Auckland

Day 2: Auckland (B/-/-)

Location: Auckland

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning you will head on a half-day tour of Auckland that is packed with city sights and historical landmarks! Board your coach and travel through the city center, along Karangahape Road as you discover its diverse vibe and pass by the fashionable Ponsonby area. Make your way over the Auckland Harbour Bridge as you take in the breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city skyline. Visit the Viaduct Harbour and discover Auckland's famous Queen Street before making your way to the Auckland Domain. The Domain is the city's oldest park, and, at 75 hectares, one of the largest. Developed around an extinct volcano, the park boasts tropical gardens, duck ponds, and public art, and is also home to the Auckland War Memorial Museum. After visiting the Domain, your tour will continue to the Parnell Village for a short morning tea stop (at your own expense). The historic buildings of Parnell have been transformed into a trendy shopping area featuring a wide range of boutiques, craft, and specialty stores. From there you will be transferred back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.




Overnight in Auckland

Day 3: Auckland – Rotorua - Auckland (B/-/-)

Location: Auckland

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will discover the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand along with the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Your tour will also take you to the famous glowworm caves of Waitomo. Depart Auckland in the morning to travel the breathtaking farmlands of the Waikato and King Country regions as you listen to the commentary from your driver guide. Learn about the history of the region as you pass by sites of interest such as Rangiriri, the site of a major battle in the Maori Land Wars in 1863. Your first stop will be in the small town of Waitomo, where you will head on a 45-minute guided tour through the world-famous Waitomo Caves. Travel through these underground limestone caverns, discovered in 1887, and find out how the incredible stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating rock formations were formed over a period of 30 million years. Your tour will end with a short yet magical boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto — a subterranean cavern illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. After that you will visit Rotorua, in the heart of the Central North Island. Visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and Te Puia's marae (meeting house) where you will receive a traditional welcome and an invitation to see a Maori cultural performance, where ancient and modern stories will be told through songs, dance, poi, and stick games. You will develop an understanding of this unique culture and history as you are entertained by the talented and charismatic performers. You will be transfered back to Auckland by the end of the tour.




Overnight in Auckland.



* We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a warm jacket for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour.

Day 4: Auckland – Christchurch (B/-/-)

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Christchurch. Upon arrival in Christchurch, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or book an optional tour.




Overnight in Christchurch

Day 5: Christchurch (B/-/-)

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hop on your coach for a half-day tour of Christchurch. The trip will start by covering the central city highlights including the botanical gardens, the Museum and Art Centre, the Avon River, the Bridge of Remembrance, the city's new pop-up container mall, and many other highlights. As you leave the inner city, the coach will take you to Mona Vale and its historic homestead and gardens. You will travel up to the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building boasting breathtaking views of the city, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps, and make your way over the Port Hills to the Port of Lyttleton. Travel through the harbour tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and the cave rock before returning to the central city and the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.




Overnight in Christchurch

Day 6: Christchurch – Queenstown (B/-/-)

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will board you coach and head to Queenstown. There will be short breaks along the way. 


Overnight in Queenstown

Day 7: Queenstown (B/-/-)

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend the day at leisure or pre-book an optional tour.




Overnight in Queenstown

Day 8: Queenstown (B/-/-)

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend the day at leisure or pre-book one of the following optional tours.




Overnight in Queenstown

Day 9: Queenstown (B/-/-)

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning you will check out of your hotel. If needed, you will be able to store your luggage in the hotel and explore the town before you are transferred to the Queenstown International Airport to prepare for your onward flight home.

What's Included

  • 08 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable stays at superior hotels or similar accommodations for 8 nights on a twin sharing basis.

  • Daily Buffet Breakfast

    Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast each morning.

  • All Arrival and departure airport transfers

    Convenient airport transfers for both arrival and departure are included.

  • All Transportation in AC modern vehicles

    Travel comfortably in air-conditioned modern vehicles throughout the tour.

  • Services of English-speaking guide during the tours

    Benefit from the expertise of an English-speaking guide during your tours.

  • All sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary

    Experience all the sightseeing activities as outlined in the detailed itinerary.

  • All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary

    All entrance fees for attractions mentioned in the itinerary are covered.

  • Domestic flight: Auckland - Christchurch

    A domestic flight from Auckland to Christchurch is included in the package.

  • All applicable taxes

    All applicable taxes are included in the tour cost.

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Visa fees, if applicable

    Visa fees, if required, are not included.

  • Airport transfer for land only passengers

    Airport transfers are not included for passengers who book land-only packages.

  • Items not mentioned as included

    Any items or services not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including arrival and departure airport transfers and a domestic flight from Auckland to Christchurch.

Accommodation

Enjoy 8 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including arrival and departure airport transfers and a domestic flight from Auckland to Christchurch.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 8 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Daily buffet breakfast is included in the tour package, allowing you to start your day with a delicious meal each morning.

  • Is there an English-speaking guide available during the tours?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking guide are provided during the tours.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour cost?

    Yes, all entrance fees for attractions mentioned in the detailed itinerary are covered.

  • What activities are planned for the day in Rotorua?

    In Rotorua, you will visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and Te Puia's marae, where you will receive a traditional welcome and see a Maori cultural performance. You will also explore the geothermal wonderland and the famous glowworm caves of Waitomo.

  • What can I expect during the half-day tour of Christchurch?

    The half-day tour of Christchurch includes visits to the botanical gardens, the Museum and Art Centre, the Avon River, the Bridge of Remembrance, and the city's new pop-up container mall. You will also visit Mona Vale, the Sign of the Takahe, the Port of Lyttleton, and the seaside suburb of Sumner.

  • Are there any optional tours available during the free days in Queenstown?

    Yes, you can pre-book optional tours during your free days in Queenstown.

  • What should I wear for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour?

    It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a warm jacket for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Nov 13, 2024 - Nov 21, 2024
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Prices last published on 06-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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