Tour Fjords, Volcanoes And Encounters

Accommodation

18 Ü: Hotel in double room 1 night: lodge (simple) 1 night: Pension (simple)

Guide

German speaking tour guide (driver-guide)

Meals

Meals: 20×F, 2×M, 8×A

Transport

all trips in private vehicles all boat and ferry crossings according to the program

Others

helicopter flight at Fox Glacier all entrance fees according to the program

Not included:

Flights

Others

PCR or rapid antigen tests required, if any. Arrival/departure meals and drinks not mentioned NZeTA registration (12 NZD) and International Visitor Conservation & Tourism Levy (35 NZD) optional excursions and activities possible extra nights before/after the tour tips personal

Insurance

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrival In Auckland 1×A
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrival In Auckland 1×A

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland 1×A

Welcome to New Zealand. Upon arrival, you will take a transfer to your accommodation (shared transfer included, optional private transfer available at extra cost). You will first have time to relax after the long flight or explore Auckland on your own. Around 6pm you will meet your tour guide at the hotel together with your fellow travelers. You can introduce yourselves and discuss the exciting next days of the trip. You will end the day with dinner together. Overnight at the Grand Chancellor City Hotel.

Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland City

Coromandel
Day 2 Day 2: Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula 1×(F/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula 1×(F/A)

Day 2: Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula 1×(B/A)

After breakfast you will leave Auckland for the Coromandel Peninsula. You will cross the peninsula, which is characterized by bizarre volcanic formations and typical New Zealand forest full of tree ferns and tea trees. You will see remnants of the mighty kauri trees, once widespread in the north, which grow up to 2000 years old. These are New Zealand’s representatives of the araucaria family. In Mercury Bay, you will explore the jewels of New Zealand beaches and hike popular visitor destinations: on the hike to Hahei’s Cathedral Cove, long white sand beaches invite you to swim in the South Pacific (time dependent). Those who wish can dig a pool in the sand at Hot Water Beach at low tide and warm themselves at underground hot springs (tide and time dependent). Overnight stay at Pacific Harbour Villas in Tairua. (Travel time approx. 3,5h, 200 km).

Pacific Harbour Villas

On the way on the Coromandel Peninsula
Day 3 Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula - Whakatane 1×(F/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula - Whakatane 1×(F/A)

Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula - Whakatane 1×(B/A)

Your journey today deepens your insight into the exciting geological history of the Coromandel Peninsula. Again and again you will enjoy open views of the coastal landscape with offshore islands, pass the gold mining town of Waihi, the Mount Maunganui volcano jutting out directly from the sea, extensive Kiwi plantations and beaches until you settle in Whakatane. You’ll stay in this Māori-cultured town in the Bay of Plenty, known for its mild climate and long sandy beaches. Here lies the highly active volcanic White Island, number five on the list of the most impressive volcanoes on earth according to Lonely Planet. You will spend the evening with the Māori. You will learn how to prepare a traditional meal Hangi in an earth oven. While waiting for your hangi, you’ll learn about Māori music, art, culture and history on a guided walking tour. After a shared dinner, you will leave your hosts no longer strangers, but friends. Overnight stay at the White Island Rendezvous Hotel. (Travel time approx. 3,5h, 220 km).

Awa Motel

Time Unlimited Tours Maori Greeting 39*26
Day 4 Day 4: Whakatane - Rotorua 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Whakatane - Rotorua 1×F

Day 4: Whakatane - Rotorua 1×F

The day is at leisure. If you wish, this morning you have the opportunity to experience White Island from above on a panoramic flight (optional). Then, through forests and along numerous lakes, you will reach the Rotorua region, known for numerous highly active thermal springs and geysers. You will have time in the afternoon to explore Rotorua and the many activities here, for example the Polynesian Spa, the Redwoods Treewalk or a panoramic flight with Volcanic Air. There is also the option to take a trip to the world famous Hobbiton (all activities optional). Overnight at Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua. (Travel time approx. 1,5h, 90 km).

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

Waiotapu Thermal Area
Day 5 Day 5: Whakatane - Rotorua - Whanganui River 1×(F/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Whakatane - Rotorua - Whanganui River 1×(F/A)

Day 5: Whakatane - Rotorua - Whanganui River 1×(B/A)

Volcanic events shaped this region, whose natural wonders you will marvel at more closely today in Wai-O-Tapu, the most colorful of the thermal areas. Here you will find colorful sinter terraces, the boiling Champagne Pool, bubbling mudholes, craters and the fetid fumes of sulfur fumaroles. We continue to the foaming Huka Falls and along Lake Taupo, with views of the three active volcanoes of Tongariro National Park: Mount Tongariro (1968m) with its sister volcanoes Mount Ngauruhoe (2291m) and Mount Ruapehu (2797m). The park has become one of the most popular national parks due to its constantly changing, sometimes moon-like landscape and spectacular views. You will turn off the main road into Whanganui River National Park. The drive is mostly through Māori country along an old post road. After a jet boat ride to the remote Bridge to Nowhere Lodge, you will take a guided hike to relics of ancient times. Your accommodation in Whanganui River National Park can only be reached by jet boat. Here you can look out over the Whanganui River in the midst of nature. In this seclusion you will do without the standards of the city hotels. With a typical New Zealand meal together, you let the eventful day come to an end. (The "Bridge to Nowhere Lodge" is a rustic accommodation with showers/toilets in the corridor. Single rooms are not available here). Overnight stay in a lodge (no single room possible). (Travel time approx. 5,5h, 350 km).

Bridge To Nowhere Lodge

View over Wellington
Day 6 Day 6: Whanganui River - Wellington 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Whanganui River - Wellington 1×F

Day 6: Whanganui River - Wellington 1×F

After breakfast, the jet boat will take you back to civilization. The journey continues through parts of the national park of the same name, passing varied landscapes and villages where the strong Māori imprint can be clearly seen and felt. After countless curves, you will reach the town of Whanganui with its stylish art deco buildings. Along the Kapiti Coast you will reach Wellington in the evening. Overnight stay at the West Plaza Hotel. (Driving time approx. 4,5h, 310 km).

West Plaza Hotel

View over Wellington
Day 7 Day 7: Wellington City Tour 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Wellington City Tour 1×F

Day 7: Wellington City Tour 1×F

Today you have the opportunity to explore the capital of New Zealand on your own. The city is compact, full of cultural highlights and lots of character. The city center between the harbor and the hills is ideal to explore on foot: Shopping, cafes, transportation, accommodations, and the city’s major attractions are all within walking distance. Lovers of good food and fine wines will feel like they’re in paradise here. Highlights include the renowned Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum, the botanical gardens accessible by cable car, and Oriental Bay. Overnight stay as on the previous day.

West Plaza Hotel

The ferry in Wellington
Day 8 Day 8: Wellington - Picton - Marlborough Sounds 1×(F/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Wellington - Picton - Marlborough Sounds 1×(F/A)

Day 8: Wellington - Picton - Marlborough Sounds 1×(B/A)

Early in the morning, board the Interislander Ferry and sail through the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton. Once there, you’ll change modes of transportation for the next two days for a nature excursion by sailboat and captain in the Marlborough Sounds. The waterways of the Sounds are former river valleys flooded by the sea and they are among the most beautiful sailing areas in New Zealand. Here, in addition to gulls, petrels and Australian boobies often follow you. With a bit of luck you can also see pygmy penguins, dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. After an eventful day you will arrive at your remote lodge and enjoy an exclusive dinner in a cozy atmosphere. From the accommodation there is the possibility to hike a bit on the Queen Charlotte Track (optional). Overnight at Punga Cove Resort.

Punga Cove Resort

Seagull in New Zealand
Day 9 Day 9: Marlborough Sounds - Picton 1×(B/M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Marlborough Sounds - Picton 1×(B/M)

Day 9: Marlborough Sounds - Picton 1×(B/M)

After breakfast you will board the sailing ship again. Today you will sail past small bays, secluded beaches and mountains covered with dense bush, go ashore at Motuara Island and observe the rare Long-legged Flycatchers and Saddle-billed Starlings in this bird sanctuary. Afterwards, visit Captain Cook’s favorite anchorage, Ship Cove (subject to change). Back on solid ground, check into your hotel in Picton. Overnight at the Picton Beachcomber Inn Hotel or alternatively at the Picton Yacht Club.

Picton Beachcomber Inn

Wide view of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track. Northwest tip of the South Island
Day 10 Day 10: Picton - Abel Tasman National Park 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Picton - Abel Tasman National Park 1×F

Day 10: Picton - Abel Tasman National Park 1×F

You will drive through Marlborough, the largest wine region in New Zealand, known for world-class Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines. Around noon, you will arrive via Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park with its golden beaches. By boat, you’ll pass numerous bays and coastal forest, then disembark for an easy hike through the national park. This is one of the most popular in the country. The boat will pick you up again after a swim stop. New Zealand fur seals can often be seen here. If you don’t want to hike, depending on the day, you can relax on the beach or take another boat excursion option (on request). Overnight stay at the Avalon Manor Motel. (Travel time approx. 3h, 175 km).

Avalon Manor Motel
Day 11 Day 11: Abel Tasman National Park - Punakaiki 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Abel Tasman National Park - Punakaiki 1×F

Day 11: Abel Tasman National Park - Punakaiki 1×F

On the way to the west coast you will cross the spectacular Buller Gorge. You will experience an impressive change of flora and reach subtropical lowland rainforest. Between Westport and Greymouth a wild and romantic landscape awaits you. Parallel to the coast runs the up to 1500 m high folded mountain belt of the Paparoa National Park. You will visit the famous Pancake Rocks, limestone cliffs whose softer intermediate layers are permanently washed out by the raging Tasman Sea, so that the rock formations appear as a stack-like layering. Your hotel today is close to the beach. Overnight stay at Punakaiki Resort. (Drive time approx. 4h, 270 km).

The Ocean View Retreat Punakaiki

Franz Josef Glacier
Day 12 Day 12: Punakaiki - Hokitika - Glacier Region 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Punakaiki - Hokitika - Glacier Region 1×F

Day 12: Punakaiki - Hokitika - Glacier Region 1×F

Continue along the west coast, stopping in the jade town of Hokitika. The long sandy beach with lots of driftwood and great rocks, makes Hokitika a unique and fascinating destination. Every year a competition of driftwood sculptures is held here. Hokitika is also the former center of the gold rush era on the west coast. South of Hokitika, the striking elongated mountain range of the Southern Alps stands out: "...a great mass of land thrown up high ..." wrote Dutchman Abel Tasman in his logbook when he became the first European to sight New Zealand in December 1642. The peaks rise to an altitude of 3500m. In Franz Josef Town you will get a little closer to the glaciers of the Southern Alps. You will take a short excursion in the glacier region (weather permitting). Overnight at Lake Matheson Motel or alternatively at The Westhaven Motel. (Driving time approx. 3-4h, 280 km).

Lake Matheson Motel

By helicopter to the glacier world of the Southern Alps
Day 13 Day 13: Glacier Region - Wanaka - Queenstown 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Glacier Region - Wanaka - Queenstown 1×F

Day 13: Glacier region - Wanaka - Queenstown 1×F

In the early morning, depending on the weather, you will take a helicopter flight over the glacier world of the Southern Alps, which you will surely not forget so quickly. After landing on the glacier, you can turn your attention to the numerous photo opportunities. As a natural weather barrier, the high mountain ridge is responsible for one of the most extreme precipitation regimes. Above the snow line, large masses of ice accumulate, forming fast-flowing valley glaciers. You will continue on one of the most beautiful rainforest routes in the world. You will stop repeatedly for short walks through dense evergreen southern beech, rimu and kahikatea rainforest, to waterfalls and along the open coast of the roaring Tasman Sea. Over the Haast Pass, climate and watershed of the Southern Alps, past the high mountains of the Aspiring National Park, you will reach Wanaka on the glacial lake of the same name. After a short stop at this picturesquely situated town, you will drive along a spectacular high alpine route in the backcountry, the Crown Range, through imposing primeval landscape with sparse tussock vegetation (flowering grass). You will spend two nights in Queenstown, not far from Lake Wakatipu. This beautiful lake with the surrounding Remarkable Mountains defines Queenstown’s landscape. Overnight at Garden Court Suites Queenstown or alternatively at Heartland Hotel Queenstown. (Drive time approx. 5h, 340 km).

Garden Court Suites & Apartments

Old Steam Paddler Queenstown
Day 14 Day 14: Free Time In Queenstown 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Free Time In Queenstown 1×F

Day 14: Free time in Queenstown 1×F

You will spend today in Queenstown, the St. Moritz of the South Seas, as the popular resort is also fondly called. The day is at your free disposal today. You are spoilt for choice to try out one of the countless offers. Perhaps you would like to take a ride on the old steamship TSS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu, or climb a cable car and enjoy the magnificent view of the city and lake. You can also join us for a tour following the footsteps of the filming locations of "The Lord of the Rings", go horseback riding, hiking or rafting (all activities optional). Your tour guide will be on hand to offer advice and assistance. Overnight stay as on the previous day.

Garden Court Suites & Apartments

Waterfalls in Milford Sound
Day 15 Day 15: Queenstown - Fjordland National Park - Te Anau 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Queenstown - Fjordland National Park - Te Anau 1×F

Day 15: Queenstown - Fjordland National Park - Te Anau 1×F

You will travel through Fjordland National Park, New Zealand’s largest national park. Few landscapes better embody the concept of wilderness than Fjordland. To the west, 14 fjords penetrate deep into the primeval forests of a rugged alpine world like overlong ocean tongues. Not far away, snow-capped mountain peaks rise above alpine grass mats to 2700 meters. You will first drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Milford Sound. In the afternoon you have the opportunity for a special tour (optional): On the western shore of Lake Te Anau, hidden under the mountains, lies a large underground cave system lit by thousands of glowworms. Don’t miss this experience either. Alternatively, you can join an optional jet boat tour on the river between Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau, which will take you to famous and spectacular filming locations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Overnight at the Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau. (Drive time approx. 2,5h, 170 km).

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

Landscape view of Milford Sound
Day 16 Day 16: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau 1×(B/M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau 1×(B/M)

Day 16: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau 1×(B/M)

Today another highlight is on the program. On what is probably the most beautiful mountain road in New Zealand to Milford, you will pass the Mirror Lakes and the gloomy Homer Tunnel and probably even encounter Kea parrots during a stop. Around noon you will reach the landmark of New Zealand and the most beautiful end of the world, Milford Sound. The fjord was formed by the 1200 m deep incision of a glacier, which after its melting left a huge furrow, which was then filled up by the sea. Lush vegetation stands out in front of the reflecting fjord and in the background a huge mountain (Mitre Peak, the Bishop’s Cap) rises 1700 m out of the sea. On a boat trip past huge foaming waterfalls you may encounter seals, and with luck penguins and dolphins. You will spend the night again in Te Anau at the lake, surrounded by mountains and rainforest. Overnight stay as on the previous day. (Travel time approx. 4h, 230 km).

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

Mount Cook - Hooker Valley
Day 17 Day 17: Te Anau - Mackenzie Country - Mount Cook 1×(B/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Te Anau - Mackenzie Country - Mount Cook 1×(B/A)

Day 17: Te Anau - Mackenzie Country - Mount Cook 1×(B/A)

After breakfast you will leave Fiordland National Park. The road climbs over Lindis Pass (971m) through Mackenzie Country. Sparse rainfall makes this highland appear as a barren steppe landscape. Extensive tussock grasslands carpet the hills, transforming the landscape into a strange-looking inner-alpine basin landscape. Continue to Mount Cook Village, where you will be surrounded by gigantic mountains. The Māori call the highest mountain in New Zealand, 3724 m, Aoraki, the cloud piercer. You will end the day with dinner. Overnight at the Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge or alternatively at the Mount Cook Lodge & Motel in Twizel. (Drive time approx. 6h, 430 km).

Aoraki Alpine Lodge
Day 18 Day 18: Mount Cook - Lake Pukaki And Lake Tekapo - Overnight With A Fairlie Host Family 1×(B/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Mount Cook - Lake Pukaki And Lake Tekapo - Overnight With A Fairlie Host Family 1×(B/A)

Day 18: Mount Cook - Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo - overnight with a Fairlie host family 1×(B/A).

Depending on the weather, you will take an easy hike in the impressive mountain scenery. At Pukaki and Tekapo Lakes you will have another opportunity to admire the magnificent glacier world of Mount Cook. You continue to the Canterbury Plain and leave the three thousand meter peaks of the Southern Alps behind you. Again you will experience a spectacular change of vegetation. The plain is one of New Zealand’s most fertile farming areas. In the early evening you will visit a family where you will get an insight into the life and work of New Zealand’s rural population. Overnight with a warm host family in rural Fairlie. (Travel time approx. 2,5h, 150 km).

Sea of Flowers New Zealand
Day 19 Day 19: Fairlie - Banks Peninsula - Akaroa 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Fairlie - Banks Peninsula - Akaroa 1×F

Day 19: Fairlie - Banks Peninsula - Akaroa 1×F

In the morning you continue towards the Rakaia River and through the Canterbury Plain to the Banks Peninsula, a peninsula formed by volcanic activity. You will end the day in Akaroa. As the most French town in New Zealand, Akaroa enchants with historic buildings, a beautiful harbor and a passion for good food. Overnight at the Akaroa Village Inn. ( Drive time approx. 4h, 240 km).

Akaroa Village Inn
Day 20 Day 20: Banks Peninsula - Christchurch 1×(B/A)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Banks Peninsula - Christchurch 1×(B/A)

Day 20: Banks Peninsula - Christchurch 1×(B/A)

Crossing the mountains of the peninsula’s crater rim, the road takes you to Christchurch. Weather permitting, according to the time available, you will take a light beach walk at Birdlings Flat. You will take a short city tour of the Garden City of New Zealand, as Christchurch is also fondly called. Here you can visit the newly built Transitional Cathedral, the Arts Centre and the museum next to the award-winning Botanical Gardens. Afterwards, take a stroll to independently explore this re-emerging city in constant flux. Optionally, you can take a ride on the historic streetcar. Tonight is the last evening of your trip and you are cordially invited to a dinner where you will review the exciting last few weeks with your fellow travelers. Overnight at the Heartland Hotel Cotswold. (Travel time approx. 2h, 100 km).

Heartland Hotel Cotswold

Approach with Air NZ to Auckland
Day 21 Day 21: Departure 1×F
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Departure 1×F

Day 21: Departure 1×F

Today your New Zealand tour ends. A shuttle will take you to the airport.

+18

21 days tour

Fjords, Volcanoes And Encounters

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Fjords, Volcanoes And Encounters

Day 1: Arrival In Auckland 1×A

Day 2: Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula 1×(F/A)

Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula - Whakatane 1×(F/A)

Day 4: Whakatane - Rotorua 1×F

Day 5: Whakatane - Rotorua - Whanganui River 1×(F/A)

Day 6: Whanganui River - Wellington 1×F

Day 7: Wellington City Tour 1×F

Day 8: Wellington - Picton - Marlborough Sounds 1×(F/A)

Day 9: Marlborough Sounds - Picton 1×(B/M)

Day 10: Picton - Abel Tasman National Park 1×F

Day 11: Abel Tasman National Park - Punakaiki 1×F

Day 12: Punakaiki - Hokitika - Glacier Region 1×F

Day 13: Glacier Region - Wanaka - Queenstown 1×F

Day 14: Free Time In Queenstown 1×F

Day 15: Queenstown - Fjordland National Park - Te Anau 1×F

Day 16: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau 1×(B/M)

Day 17: Te Anau - Mackenzie Country - Mount Cook 1×(B/A)

Day 18: Mount Cook - Lake Pukaki And Lake Tekapo - Overnight With A Fairlie Host Family 1×(B/A)

Day 19: Fairlie - Banks Peninsula - Akaroa 1×F

Day 20: Banks Peninsula - Christchurch 1×(B/A)

Day 21: Departure 1×F

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