Inspiring Journeys 22 Day The Long White Cloud

Arrive Christchurch

On arrival in Christchurch you will be transferred by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Perhaps visit the International Antarctic Centre or Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand’s only open-range zoo.

Christchurch to Punakaiki via The Tranz Alpine Scenic Train

All aboard the famous TranzAlpine train! Rated as one of the world’s great scenic railway journeys, you’ll travel across the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps. Then re-join your coach at Arthur’s Pass and travel to Punakaiki to view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. You’ll stay in an eco-friendly resort right on the waterfront. Enjoy dinner while watching the thundering surf at your door step!

Punakaiki to Franz Josef

Today visit Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast, for a greenstone (jade) jewellery demonstration by a local carver. Continue to the gold-mining town of Ross en route to Franz Josef. You may want to get up close and personal with the glaciers on a helicopter flight. Your flight will hover over the snow face, and may land high up in the valley so that you can walk across the ice fall - subject to weather conditions (Optional Experience, own expense). Tonight, your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. This evening, why not treat yourself to Franz Josef's local geothermal hot pools or perhaps a massage. Dinner tonight is at the retreat.

Franz Josef to Queenstown

Today travel over the Haast Pass and along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea, stopping at Makarora at lunchtime. Also stop to explore the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown, followed by an orientation tour of Queenstown. Surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown's scenery is inspiring. Tonight dinner is included at your hotel.

Explore Queenstown

Explore exciting Queenstown your way! Take the opportunity to encounter a Queenstown legend and ride the Shotover Jet Boat or venture out on a 4WD Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour. If laid-back and relaxed is more your idea of fun then join a Wine Tour and sample some of Central Otago's award-winning wines, or visit our native birds at Queenstown's Kiwi Birdlife Park. Your AAT Kings Travel Director will assist you in booking all of your chosen optional experiences. This evening, enjoy a memorable Highlight Dinner at one of Queenstown's fine dining restaurants, against the backdrop of the beautiful snow-capped Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.

Another day to experience Queenstown

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealands oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station Otherwise, you could simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafes and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views.

Queenstown to Milford Sound

Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of the South Island's largest lake. Later you'll travel through the rainforest of World Heritage Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel to the amazing Mirror Lake. Afterwards, walk to see the Chasm on your way into Milford Sound and take some time to kayak this majestic fiord, considered by many as the Eighth Wonder of the World (Optional Experience - own expense). Tonight stay at the magical Milford Sound Lodge, with views of the Cleddau Valley.

Milford Sound

Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. Board the Southern Discoveries vessel for a half day exploration of Milford Sound, often called the "eighth natural wonder of the world". Sail out to the Tasman Sea, looking for wildlife along the way, for a visit to the Underwater Observatory and the opportunity to go sea kayaking in Harrison Cove. This afternoon learn more about breathtaking Fiordland National Park with an informative talk by a local expert.

Milford Sound to Wedderburn

This morning, embark on a journey from the rainforests of pristine Fiordland National Park, through Te Anau and the rolling hill country of Southland to the dry and arid region of Central Otago. Arrive in Wedderburn and head out to a high-country farm to learn about life on the alpine plains. Finish the day with dinner at the local pub.

Wedderburn to Mt Cook

Travel to the town of Naseby to learn the history of this gold mining region. Maybe you'll try your hand at the ancient sport of curling! From here it's on towards the spectacular scenery of the Southern Alps and then along the shores of majestic Lake Pukaki, before arriving in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Mt. Cook, the highest mountain in the Southern Hemisphere, helped Sir Edmund Hillary hone his skills in preparation for his conquest of Everest. Tonight enjoy dinner with a breathtaking mountain view.

Mt. Cook to Christchurch

Your epic encounter with New Zealand's scenic beauty continues this morning as you see the splendour of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo, where you'll stop to view the famous and iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, built as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie region, with its alter window framing stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Later, begin your return journey to Christchurch, the City of Churches, and the largest city in the South Island. Crossing the Canterbury Plains, arrive in Christchurch this afternoon and embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake.

Christchurch to Wellington

Travel along the rugged Pacific Ocean coast this morning to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Pass the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, then travel to pretty seaside fishing village of Picton. Later cross the Cook Strait to the North Island where you have a city sightseeing tour taking in New Zealand's parliament buildings, and a visit to Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Free Day to Explore Wellington

You have a day at leisure to see the sights of your choice. Perhaps take a tour of Parliament or venture to Weta Workshop, the home of the special effects wizards whose work features in many blockbuster movies. Enjoy the cafe lifestyle in the capital city or simply shop till you drop, there is something in Wellington for everyone!

Wellington to Taupo

Today travel through the Kapiti Coast, past the dairy farms of Manawatu and over the Central Plateau, New Zealand's main volcanic area. In a country of contrasts, perhaps nothing is more striking than the three peaks of Tongariro National Park rising starkly from the surrounding plateau of tussock and near-desert. The three mountains, Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe that make up the National Park are all active volcanoes, and are popular in winter and summer - skiing and snowboarding on the mountainous ski fields, and amazing walks including the Tongariro Crossing. Later, arrive into Taupo, known to have some of the best Trout fishing in the world, and check into your accommodation for the night. Originally built in 1889, the Hilton Hotel is nestled among the epic scenery of Taupo with impressive views across the lake and Tongariro National Park.

Taupo to Rotorua

Enjoy a leisurely start to your day before continuing the journey to nearby Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, the only outlet of water from Lake Taupo, and then it's on to Rotorua. On arrival in Rotorua an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Family Marae. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.

Rotorua Sights

Ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird's eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants and view the beautiful surrounds of the forest from a unquie perspective. 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! To complete your day you'll visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Maori life and how they interact with geothermal activity.

Rotorua to Coromandel

Make your way to the famous Waitomo Caves for an exclusive 5-star Eco Glow Worm experience. Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glow worms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave. Later, travel through the dairy farming district of Waikato, and now you're off to the Coromandel to Puka Park Resort, where you'll stay in Tree Hut Chalets, set among the native bush.

Coromandel to Auckland

After a leisurely breakfast, you will travel over the Coromandel Forest Park towards Auckland. Journey over the Bombay Hills as you make your way into the heart of New Zealand's largest city, you will stop at Bastion Point and the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial, as you will get stunning shots of Auckland, the North Shore and the Waitemata Harbour. After a sightseeing tour, you're at leisure to explore the town and try out the Auckland restaurant scene.

Auckland to the Bay of Islands

This morning depart Auckland City and travel north over the Harbour Bridge past the sprawling suburbs of the North Shore of Auckland. Then continue to the Waipoua Forest, home to the largest Kauri tree in existence, Tane Mahuta (over 2,000 years old). You'll take a break before a Maori guide walks you through the native bush and explains the history and legend behind the mighty Kauri. Then head to your waterfront resort in the heart of the Bay of Islands and tonight its dinner at the resort.

Bay of Islands Sights

This morning you'll take a ferry across the harbour to historic Russell and enjoy a guided tour of the first European settlement in New Zealand. A local guide will also take you on a walking tour of the town. Later, why not visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Reserve, where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. As you stroll through the reserve, you will see highlights such as the Waka - Maori War Canoe and an intricately carved Marae or Meeting House. (Optional Experience - own expense). Tonight, you are free to dine as you wish.

Bay of Islands to Auckland

This morning experience spectacular scenery as you cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous "Hole in the Rock" formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands - see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life. Later, you'll have some free time in Paihia before you travel back to Auckland. Celebrate tonight with new-found friends at a farewell dinner.

Farewell From Auckland and Transfer to Airport

Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and you'll be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.