2021 & 2022 Globus Guided Tours - Globus® Vacation Packages

Best of New Zealand (PN)

14 Day Tour from Auckland to Queenstown

2024 Tour Details View 2025 Tour Details »

It’s true that sheep outnumber people in New Zealand six to one, but lucky for ewe, this untamed land also boasts an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning fiords. The North Island’s Bay of Plenty sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of New Zealand’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting geysers are only surpassed by the South Island’s soaring Southern Alps, which you’ll reach from charming Christchurch by way of the scenic TranzAlpine train. Throughout your tour of New Zealand, you’ll have the opportunity to admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier, warm your toes in natural hot springs, and partake in all of the fun that Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” has to offer. With so many ways to work up an appetite, you’ll appreciate a special barbecue on a local farm and dinner at a New Zealand family’s home. On this 14-day tour, you’ll discover the best of New Zealand from top to bottom.

Small-Group Discovery Dates Available

Select Globus South Pacific vacations are limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery South Pacific vacation is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.

Your Train New Zealand’s TranzAlpine train glides through the South Island’s vast Canterbury Plains and soaring mountain peaks for an immersive experience offering a window into New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. Travel in comfort with an onboard café and in-seat audio commentary while traveling along the gorges of the glacier-fed Waimakariri River and the Southern Alps with unfettered views. Spacious reclining seats, panoramic windows, and skylights provide an incredible vantage point to marvel at New Zealand’s epic landscapes.

This vacation visits remote regions where some facilities are not up to the first-class standards you expect from Globus. However, we have selected the best available hotels that satisfy our high standards of cleanliness and comfort.

Dates & Prices Book Online
800.268.3636
Best of New Zealand map

 Photo Highlights

 Meals

 Meals & Itinerary

Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

 Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

A Māori Welcome Welcome to Aotearoa, Māori for “land of the long white cloud.” Your room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule your flights to arrive by 4:30pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner.

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DinnerDinner

Day 2 AUCKLAND–BAY OF ISLANDS

Time & Tides Start your day with a sightseeing tour of Auckland, the “City of Sails.” See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. Continue to the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beauty and history. Before arriving at your resort, visit the historic Waitangi Treaty House.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS The Waitangi Treaty House, or Busby House as it is sometimes known, was the site of some of the most important events in New Zealand’s history. It is here in 1840, New Zealand’s founding document was signed. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, see Māori cultural performances, stroll through the lush gardens, and visit the inspiring art gallery and carving studio; all with stunning views over the Bay of Islands.

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 3 BAY OF ISLANDS

Seas The Day This morning, embark on a sightseeing cruise. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to stroll the beach, explore some of the island’s historic attractions, shop for souvenirs, or just relax at your hotel.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Take in stunning views as you glide through the islands along the Rakamangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. If water dripped on them from the cave’s room, it was a good omen. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Make an island stop to give you time to stroll along the white sand beach or walk to the top of the hill for scenic views of the Bay of Islands.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 BAY OF ISLANDS–ROTORUA

Abundant Adventure Today, travel through the Bay of Plenty region to Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders, adventure activities, and a thriving Māori culture

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE This evening, you may wish to join an optional outing to experience an authentic Māori village and culture performance, followed by a delicious Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). You might even be asked to join in a Haka, the traditional war dance of the Māori.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 5 ROTORUA

The Living Earth This morning starts with a guided tour and visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Next, visit Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. This afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to relax in a natural hot spring, zipline through the forest, or board a floatplane for flightseeing of this beautiful region. This evening, join a Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite New Zealand family for dinner in their home, a unique opportunity to interact with a local family and immerse yourself in New Zealand culture. Before the evening is over, you’ll feel like part of the family.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CONSERVATION HEROES Only about 5% of all Kiwi birds hatched in the wild survive to adulthood, making them endangered. At The National Kiwi Hatchery, you’ll see important conservation work in action.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS At Te Puia, explore New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland, featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, and silica terraces. See Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting, learn how Māori use the steam to cook their food, and visit the Māori Arts and Craft Institute to see traditional carving and weaving performed before your eyes.

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 6 ROTORUA–MARTON–WELLINGTON

Wild & Woolly Travel south today through rolling farmlands and pass massive Lake Taupo. After lunch, continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city.

LOCAL FAVORITE
COUNTING SHEEP In New Zealand, sheep outnumber people 16 to 1. We’ll make a stop in the historic rural town of Marton, where we’ll visit a Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite local farm and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch. During your time here, take a tour of the farm, see the animals, and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy.

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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 7 WELLINGTON

New Zealand Treasures Our day begins with a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbour from the top of Mount Victoria. You’ll also spend time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Meaning “the treasure box” in Māori, Te Papa is New Zealand’s national museum. Here you can explore the great stories of this country, Māori culture, heritage, and history. Learn about WWI, see a colossal giant squid, enjoy hands-on displays, and experience New Zealand’s many landscapes.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 8 WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH

Legendary Landmarks Fly to Christchurch located on New Zealand’s south island. Christchurch was named after the city in England that has the same name and has a history of English heritage. A sightseeing tour highlights some of Christchurch’s famous landmarks and spectacular gardens. This evening is at leisure.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 9 CHRISTCHURCH–TRANZALPINE TRAIN–ARTHUR’S PASS–FRANZ JOSEF

All Aboard in Christchurch Today, take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the scenic Tranzalpine. Spend the next two nights in the small town of Franz Josef, located at the base of the impressive Franz Josef Glacier.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Experience the South Island’s striking landscape by taking the Tranzalpine train. From the comfort of first-class carriages, see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmlands, followed by the spectacular gorges and rivers of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass National Park. The train features large panoramic windows, an onboard café, and in-seat audio commentary. It’s a journey of a lifetime!

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 10 FRANZ JOSEF

Ice Sculptures This morning, explore this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage area. Admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier on a locally guided tour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SCENIC WONDERS The Franz Josef Glacier Viewpoint Walk takes you through some breathtaking landscapes. Learn about the glacier’s history, see what is left behind this majestic giant, and learn the legend of Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere. After a short walk to the Glacier Viewpoint, be rewarded with spectacular views.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional scenic flightseeing or helicopter tour, relax in one of the glacier hot pools, spend time at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, or pick up a picnic lunch and just take in the gorgeous scenery. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 11 FRANZ JOSEF–QUEENSTOWN

Vineyards & Views Our journey today takes us along the coast and the Tasman Sea. Climb through rainforests and over Haast Pass to arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Upon arrival, enjoy a tour and a tasting at a local Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite winery. Tonight, you’re free to enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown’s many restaurants or cafes and sample some of the regional wines.

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The Gibbston Valley of New Zealand is known for high-quality wines including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Rose, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. We’ll visit New Zealand’s largest wine cave and the region’s oldest vineyard at Gibbston Valley Winery. As one of the region’s founding wineries you’ll taste some of their premium wines, explore the wine cave, learn about the founding of the vineyard, and enjoy a beautiful setting.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 12 QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND

Sights & Sound Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling, as the “eighth wonder of the world.” Late evening return to Queenstown.

NOTE:
The excursion to Milford Sound may happen on Day 13 depending on weather and road conditions today.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Cruise on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. Experience dense rainforest, towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Have your cameras ready for marine life such as playful dolphins, seals, and penguins. It will be a day to remember as you experience New Zealand’s wild side at its absolute best!

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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 13 QUEENSTOWN

Timeless Tales & Traditions Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. Tour some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy, shop for souvenirs, or take a thrilling jetboat ride on the dart river. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE This evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkable Mountains. Make sure to have your camera ready for fantastic photo opportunities.

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 14 QUEENSTOWN

Haere Raa (Māori for “Until Next Time”) Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.

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Breakfast Breakfast

 Tour Director

With GLOBUS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

JULIET HUDSON

Escorting tours for more than 15 years

“Passionate about sharing the best of what Australia and New Zealand has to offer and ensuring that each of our guests experience the trip of a lifetime is why I love being a Tour Director. I enjoy finding ways to showcase and immerse our guests in the destinations we visit, bringing the itinerary to life, and adding special touches with "meet the locals" experiences, morning "power walks," "local wine tastings," and "where to eat" menu boards. I love sharing my destination knowledge and helping guests, with beaming smiles on their faces, make wonderful holiday memories.”

Tour Director - JULIET HUDSON

 Accommodations

 Optional Excursions

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyGlobus site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Price Ranges

$ ($50 CAD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 CAD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 CAD)
$$$$ (Over $150)


Rotorua
Franz Josef
Queenstown

Rotorua

Mitai Maori Cutural Evening Experience

Mitai Maori Cutural Evening Experience

Enter the world of Mitai and learn about the history of this area which was once flourished in villages. See the fierce warriors in traditional dress, paddle an ancient warrior waka (canoe) down the Wai-o-Whiro stream. Enjoy a traditional Hangi dinner made from local meats and vegetables.

Price Range: $$$

Rotorua Zipline and Canopy Tour

Rotorua Zipline and Canopy Tour

Soar along 500-year-old Mamaku Forest on New Zealand's only native forest zipline canopy tour. This is an experience of a lifetime!

Price Range: $$$$

Mud Baths & Spa

Mud Baths & Spa

Enjoy some relaxing time at Hell's Gate Mud Spa, a historic New Zealand experience. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Maori for over 800 years.

Price Range: $$

Franz Josef

Helicopter Ride with Glacier Snowlanding

Helicopter Ride with Glacier Snowlanding

This amazing excursion delivers a spectacular helicopter ride and twice the ice! The flight includes a snow landing, an excellent opportunity to really take in the surroundings and breathe the clean alpine air. Landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories.

Price Range: $$$$

Classic Kayak

Classic Kayak

Glide effortlessly across the water taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps.

Price Range: $$$

Kayak & Walk

Kayak & Walk

Dip your paddle in Lake Mapourika's pristine glassy water and then set foot upon ancient soils.

Price Range: $$$$

Queenstown

KJet Thrill Ride

KJet Thrill Ride

KJet offers 60 minutes of unforgettable thrills, spins and exhilaration across three waterways in one of the world's most stunning locations.

Price Range: $$$

Queenstown Wine Trail Tour

Queenstown Wine Trail Tour

Take this tour and experience the true flavor of the local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards.

Price Range: $$$$

Walter Peak Farm and BBQ Lunch

Walter Peak Farm and BBQ Lunch

Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the 103-year-old TSS Earnslaw steamship to enjoy a popular lunch excursion at the historic Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy great scenery, a delicious meal, and learn more about life on a New Zealand farm.

Price Range: $$$$

Helicopter Flight over the Remarkables Mountains with Landing

Helicopter Flight over the Remarkables Mountains with Landing

See Queenstown's most famous and iconic mountain range from one mile high. This "Remarkable" excursion takes you towards the South Eastern shores of Lake Wakatipu where the Remarkables stand tall over Queenstown - one of only two Mountain ranges in the world that run directly North to South. Soar straight to the top and take in the views of the incredible alpine environment. On the top, we make a landing and shutdown the helicopter to allow you to take in the grandeur scale of the Wakatipu Basin. Take the ultimate photograph, breathe in the southern fresh air and you may even be lucky enough to enjoy some fresh snow. From there, your helicopter will take off and make its way back to base, showing off the picturesque scenery of Queenstown on the way down.

Price Range: $$$$



The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.