Join us on an unforgettable, 18-day small-group adventure to the land of sweeping fjords, volcanic geothermal fields, snow-capped peaks and rich Māori traditions. From the bustle of Auckland to the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, we’ll traverse both the North and South Islands of New Zealand in style and comfort with Collette. Immerse yourself in a Māori cultural and geothermal experience in Rotorua, witness sheepdog demonstrations at a high country farm near Queenstown, glide through the majestic Milford Sound, embark on a food-walking tour through Wellington, and marvel at the glacier-carved landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
The Itinerary
Day 0 – Depart from Home
Begin your journey across the Pacific. You’ll cross the International Dateline and “skip ahead” a day as you travel to New Zealand — the adventure of a lifetime begins.
Day 1 – Arrive in Auckland
Welcome to the “City of Sails.” After arriving, settle in at Hotel Indigo Auckland and meet your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.
Day 2 – Auckland
Enjoy a panoramic city tour featuring America’s Cup Village, Queen Street, and the Harbour Bridge, then spend the afternoon exploring Auckland on your own.
Day 3 – Auckland → Rotorua
Travel south through lush farmland to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and Māori culture. En route, stop for a local farm visit and morning tea before exploring the towering redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest.
Day 4 – Rotorua
Discover an authentic Māori village built around bubbling geothermal pools and natural steam vents. In the evening, enjoy traditional Māori hospitality during a cultural performance and hangi feast.
Day 5 – Rotorua → Wellington
Journey to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, known for its harbor views, creative spirit, and vibrant coastal setting.
Day 6 – Wellington
Tour the city’s highlights including Parliament’s Beehive and the historic Government Building, then sample local flavors on a guided walking food tour.
Day 7 – Wellington (Day at Leisure)
Spend a full free day exploring at your own pace — stroll the waterfront, visit Te Papa Museum, or join an optional Seal Coast or Lord of the Rings tour.
Day 8 – Wellington → Christchurch
Sail across Cook Strait to the South Island, arriving in Picton before traveling along the scenic east coast to Christchurch, the “Garden City.”
Day 9 – Christchurch
See how Christchurch has rebuilt itself after the 2011 earthquake on a city tour, then visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve to see New Zealand’s “Big Five” — kiwi, kaka, tuatara, kea, and takahe.
Day 10 – Christchurch (Your Choice Day)
Choose between visiting Quake City, a museum dedicated to the earthquake recovery, or the International Antarctic Centre, which explores the region’s ties to polar exploration. The afternoon is yours to enjoy.
Day 11 – Christchurch → Aoraki / Mount Cook
Travel into the heart of the Southern Alps to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Take in spectacular alpine views and, weather permitting, consider an optional glacier flightseeing tour.
Day 12 – Aoraki / Mount Cook → Dunedin
Head south to Dunedin, a charming coastal city with Scottish roots. Visit Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest road, before an evening at leisure.
Day 13 – Dunedin
Explore Larnach Castle and the Royal Albatross Centre, home to the world’s only mainland albatross colony.
Day 14 – Dunedin → Queenstown
Drive past vineyards and mountain vistas to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Ride a gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic lake and alpine views.
Day 15 – Milford Sound Excursion
Journey to the legendary Milford Sound and cruise beneath sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls — a highlight of any New Zealand trip. Return to Queenstown in the evening.
Day 16 – Queenstown
Spend a relaxed day exploring or join an optional “Gold Seeker” countryside and movie-location tour. In the evening, cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard a classic steamship, enjoy a lakeside barbecue, and see a sheepdog demonstration before sailing back under the stars.
Day 17 – Return Home
Bid farewell to Queenstown and begin your journey home with memories of breathtaking landscapes, warm Kiwi hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.
OPTIONAL FIJI EXTENSION: Arrive in the beautiful tropical paradise of Fiji. Fijians are warm and friendly, with a welcoming, vibrant culture. The expansive sandy beaches and clear ocean waters draw visitors from around the world. Now’s your time to sit back and recharge from your South Pacific journey.
Join us!
This is an extraordinary opportunity to explore New Zealand in depth — from geothermal geysers to glacier-carved valleys — with the personal touch and camaraderie that make every Huckleberry Travel journey so special.
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