Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. After being met at the airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy some free time to explore the vibrant waterfront district. In the evening, join your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.

After breakfast, depart Auckland and journey north to the subtropical Bay of Islands region. En route, stop at the impressive Whangarei Falls and the Kawiti Glowworm Caves. In the afternoon, reach the historic town of Russell, New Zealand's first European settlement and sea port. Take an orientation walk through town with your guide to learn about the area's rich history.

Embark on a full-day cruise through the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty and historic significance. Visit the famous 'Hole in the Rock' on Motukokako Island (weather permitting) and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, and other marine life. Stop at a secluded island for a short guided walk and swimming opportunity. Return to Russell in the late afternoon with time to relax.

This morning, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand's most important historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown. Then, travel south back through Auckland and on to Rotorua, the heartland of Māori culture and a geothermal wonderland. This evening, experience a traditional Māori hangi (feast) and cultural performance.

Spend the day exploring Rotorua's geothermal attractions. Visit Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Continue to the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland to see the colorful Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser. This afternoon, enjoy some free time with optional activities such as a visit to a natural hot spring spa or mountain biking in the Redwoods Forest.

Depart Rotorua this morning and travel to Tongariro National Park, New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual UNESCO World Heritage site. En route, stop at the impressive Huka Falls and Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Arrive at your accommodation near the park in the afternoon with time to relax and take in the spectacular mountain views.

This morning, depending on weather conditions and group ability, take a guided walk in Tongariro National Park to experience its unique volcanic terrain and spectacular views. Later, drive south to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Upon arrival, take an orientation walk including a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for panoramic city views.

Start the day with a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's innovative national museum. Then, board the Interislander Ferry for a scenic journey across the Cook Strait to the South Island. Cruise through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Picton. From there, drive to Nelson, the sunniest region in New Zealand and gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

Spend a full day exploring the golden beaches, turquoise waters, and native forests of Abel Tasman National Park. Take a scenic cruise along the coastline with opportunities to stop at secluded beaches. Choose between relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or taking a guided walk on a portion of the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track.

Journey down the rugged West Coast, one of the world's most spectacular coastal drives. Pass through the charming town of Hokitika, famous for its greenstone (jade) and stop at Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Continue to Franz Josef, a small town nestled in the rainforest near the iconic Franz Josef Glacier.

This morning, take a guided walk through the rainforest to a viewpoint of the Franz Josef Glacier. Learn about the glacier's retreat and the surrounding ecology from your expert guide. Later, travel through the dramatic Haast Pass into Central Otago. Stop at the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown before arriving in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.

Today features the highlight of many New Zealand journeys – a full-day excursion to Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery and temperate rainforest to reach Milford Sound, where you'll embark on a scenic cruise. Marvel at towering Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, and keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and penguins. Return to Queenstown in the evening where your tour concludes.