Experience New Zealand at its most refined on this 13-day grand luxury journey from Auckland to Christchurch, with a stop in Queenstown. Designed for discerning travellers, this tour combines scenic grandeur, exclusive experiences, and effortless comfort.
From Auckland’s cosmopolitan charm to Rotorua’s geothermal marvels, Wellington’s cultural pulse, and Queenstown’s alpine elegance, every destination reveals a new facet of New Zealand’s beauty. Cruise through majestic fiords, wander cinematic landscapes, and relax in handpicked premium accommodations along the way.
Travel in comfort with your private chauffeur and expert guide. Whether you want to extend your stay, tailor activities, or add bespoke experiences, we can customise every detail to your preferences.
Indulge in a seamless blend of sophistication and adventure — a journey where luxury, nature, and culture unite to create memories that last a lifetime.
We can customise this tour suggestion to suit you perfectly. If you're interested, you can add more time to your favourite locations, stay in different accommodations, and do more activities. We can arrange it all. Just get in touch with us to get a Tailor-Made itinerary.
If you only have a short time to explore New Zealand's largest island, this tour is for you. Prepare for ten days of spectacular scenery and adventure opportunities with this New Zealand South and North Island holiday package.
If you are budget travellers and want fewer activities, we can adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Package Tour Includes:
Airport transfers and Luxury Ground Transportation with a guide driver
Passionate and knowledgeable local Kiwi-guided driver
Comfortable and air-conditioned bus/Van transport
Small groups of a maximum of 15 people
Twin-share 3-4* hotel accommodation (private room upgrade available)
Daily hearty breakfasts
The Activity Includes:
Auckland city tour, Harbour Bridge, Mission Bay Beach, Mount Eden Volcanic Crater
Putaruru Blue Spring, Waitomo Ruakuri Cave
Rotorua lake visit, and Geothermal Kuirau Park, Mitai Maori Cultural Night & Tour
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Taupo Huka Falls and Lake Taupo view
Wellington Te Papa Museum, Parliament House, City Sightseeing
TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
Natural New Zealand experiences showing you life through a local's eyes
Package Excludes:
International and domestic flights
Personal expenses
Personal charges at the hotel (phone calls, minibar, laundry and others)
Airport Taxes & international and domestic Airfare (flight tickets)
Admission fees for the activities that are not mentioned in the itinerary included section
The tour price options:
A minimum of 2 people is required to run these tours
Group of 2 people: NZ$18,240 per person
Group of 3-5 people: NZ$17,760 per person
Group of 6-10 people: NZ$12,890 per person
Group of 11-15 people: NZ$9,820 per person
** Send us an enquiry to get a quote if your group has more than 15 pax
*** Terms & Conditions apply, and this is a private tour that operates on demand.
Exclusive Halal Tour Options Available
Halal Tours Included:
Muslim Driver Guide
Prayer mats are available onboard
Vehicles are to be stopped at the safest place during prayer time
Guide to Halal Restaurants
Guide to the Mosque for prayer
We'll fill your days with the best things to see and do on the North and South Island, providing you with great insight into New Zealand's life and culture. You can relax in comfortable 3–4-star accommodation to ensure a great night’s sleep and be ready for the following day’s activities.
Terms & Conditions apply, and this is a private tour that operates on demand.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Auckland city and countryside sightseeing
Rotorua Geothermal & Cultural Wonders
Maori cultural performance
Waitomo Caves experience
Interislander cruise from Wellington to Picton
Dolphin-watching encounter in Kaikoura
Queenstown TSS Earnslaw Steamship ride
Milford Sounds Cruise Tours
Franz Josef Glacier experience.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
Itinerary
Day 1 – Auckland City Discovery
Arriving at the airport – A Warm New Zealand Welcome: Welcome to Auckland, the vibrant "City of Sails" and gateway to New Zealand. Upon arrival at Auckland International Airport, your private chauffeur will meet and greet you in the arrivals hall, then transfer you in comfort to your city accommodation. Settle into your hotel and relax after your flight, with the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure.
If you are in the City Hotel and the tours start for Auckland City Discovery and countryside sightseeing
First, your journey to West Auckland Vineyards – Boutique Excellence:Your chauffeur escorts you to a hidden gem winery, where the art of small-batch winemaking comes to life. Here, passionate vintners craft wines with unparalleled attention to detail, producing sumptuous Syrahs, bold Cabernet Sauvignons, and crisp Sauvignon Blancs. You can taste New Zealand wines at various wineries in Auckland.
Your next stop is Muriwai. Muriwai Beach is a black-sand beach in New Zealand, with crashing surf and panoramic views. It is also home to the world's largest seabirds in their natural environment, and visitors can see them from September to April.
Your chauffeur drives back to Auckland City via the countryside of Riverhead and Coatesville, Allowing You to enjoy the green scenery and Harbour Bridge view on your way to the city sightseeing.
Visit Mount Eden – Auckland's Best Viewpoint: Relax as your driver takes you to the base of Maungawhau / Mount Eden volcanic crater, Auckland's highest natural viewpoint. From here, enjoy a short scenic walk to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, harbours, and distant volcanic peaks.
Your next stop at Mission Bay – Seaside with Stunning Views: Enjoy a relaxing short break at Mission Bay, a vibrant beachfront destination offering gourmet dining options with ocean views.
After Mission Bay, head to Auckland Domain for a short visit and city views, then drop off at your hotel.
Optional paid Experiences:
All Blacks Experience: An interactive journey celebrating New Zealand's legendary rugby culture, located within the SkyCity complex.
Auckland City Night Tour: Discover the city's illuminated skyline and landmarks with a private guided evening drive.
Night Stay: Auckland Hotel
Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua: Waitomo Ruakuri Caves, Putaruru Blue Spring, Rotorua
After a relaxed breakfast at your Auckland hotel, embark on a scenic drive in a premium vehicle, escorted by your private chauffeur, from Auckland to the enchanting landscapes of the Central North Island. This journey blends lush countryside vistas, rolling hills, and charming rural towns, offering an intimate glimpse of New Zealand beyond the city.
Waitomo Ruakuri Cave:
Arrive at the world-famous Waitomo Ruakuri Caves for a spellbinding underground adventure. Step into a mystical realm where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cavern ceilings like a galaxy of stars. On this unhurried, 2-hour guided tour, marvel at the interplay of shadow, light, and crystal-clear underground streams. This magical experience offers a rare chance to see one of New Zealand's most iconic natural phenomena in serene, private comfort.
After lunch in Waitomo Village, your tour departs for Rotorua. On your way, visit the Putaruru Blue Spring, a natural spring known for its clear blue water, with an adjacent walkway for picturesque hikes. It is a self-guided walking tour for an hour.
After an unforgettable day of discovery, continue your journey to Rotorua. Settle into your hotel, where comfort, elegance, and impeccable service await. Relax as you prepare for geothermal wonders and Maori culture.
Mitai Maori Night Experience:
Next, enjoy the Mitai Maori Night cultural performance and BBQ dinner, including a geothermal activity tour.
Includes: Waitomo Ruakuri Caves Tour, Blue Spring, and Mitai Maori Night Experience
Overnight Stay: Rotorua Hotel
Day 3 – Rotorua: Geothermal & Cultural Wonders
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland:
A Colourful Geothermal Experience: Explore the surreal landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu, where vibrant geothermal pools, steaming craters, and the famous Champagne Pool create a visual spectacle. A private guided tour ensures you uncover the secrets of this natural wonder.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley:
Continue to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world's youngest geothermal environment, formed after the Mt Tarawera eruption. Explore dramatic landscapes dotted with bubbling thermal features, the world's largest hot spring, and walk amidst stories of volcanic transformation and Maori heritage. Learn about the lost Pink and White Terraces, once considered the eighth wonder of the natural world, while enjoying immersive trails and serene vistas.
Rotorua Lake Views & Relaxation: (Optional)
Round out your day with the option to visit the Polynesian Spa, indulge in its private thermal pools overlooking Lake Rotorua for a rejuvenating soak, enjoy an evening Night Walk in the Redwood Forest, where towering trees and serene paths create an enchanting nocturnal experience, or visit Hell's Gate Mud Pool.
Includes: Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Optional Experiences: Polynesian Spa · Night Walk in Redwood Forest Trees
Overnight Stay: Rotorua Hotel
Day 4: Rotorua to Wellington: Huka Falls & Lake Taupo
Huka Falls – Nature's Power & Majesty:
Depart Rotorua and head to Taupo, stopping at Huka Falls, one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders. Marvel at the dramatic force of 220,000 litres of water cascading every second through a narrow gorge, surrounded by lush native bush. Capture the perfect photos or simply enjoy the power and beauty of this iconic waterfall.
Lake Taupo – Scenic Lakeside Views:
Continue along the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, with its serene waters framed by volcanic peaks. Enjoy panoramic vistas along the drive, perfect for photography and appreciating the region's tranquil beauty.
Desert Road – Volcanoes & Wild Horses:
Travel along the Desert Road, a striking plateau dividing the Rangipo Desert. Admire the volcanic peaks of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom of Lord of the Rings fame), with the distant Kaimanawa Ranges occasionally revealing herds of wild horses roaming freely across the rugged terrain.
Arrival in Wellington:
Arrive in New Zealand's vibrant capital, Wellington, known for its arts scene and culinary delights. The city lights welcome you to an evening of exploration, with gourmet dining options to satisfy every palate.
Included Experiences: Huka Falls · Lake Taupo Views
Overnight Stay: Wellington Hotel
Day 5 – Wellington: Te Papa Museum & Parliament House
Zealandia – Urban Wildlife Sanctuary:
Start your day with a visit to Zealandia, a pioneering conservation project and the world's first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary. Explore lush native bush and encounter over 20 species of wildlife successfully reintroduced to this area, including birds and reptiles once absent from mainland New Zealand for more than a century.
Parliament House:
Discover New Zealand's governance and heritage with a guided tour of Parliament House (subject to availability). Marvel at the iconic Beehive and learn about the nation's political processes and history within this striking architectural landmark.
Weta Workshop – Filmmaking Magic (Optional):
Step into the creative world of cinema at Weta Workshop, famous for its work on The Lord of the Rings and other blockbuster films. Witness artisans crafting props, miniatures, and special effects that bring epic stories to life. Optional tours provide hands-on insight into this world of movie magic.
Te Papa Tongarewa:
Explore Te Papa, New Zealand's acclaimed national museum located on Wellington's vibrant waterfront. Combining cutting-edge technology with traditional exhibits, the museum offers an immersive journey through the country's cultural, natural, and artistic heritage. Optional guided tours provide a deeper understanding of the stories behind the exhibits.
Wellington Cable Car – Panoramic City Views (Optional):
For a charming perspective of the city, take the historic Wellington Cable Car to the top of Kelburn Hill. Enjoy sweeping views of the cityscape, harbour, and surrounding hills, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a serene escape from urban bustle.
Included Experiences: Parliament House Guided Tour · Te Papa National Museum
Optional Experiences: Weta Workshop Tour · Wellington Cable Car Ride
Overnight Stay: Wellington Hotel
Day 6: Wellington to Cook Strait ferry to Picton > Kaikoura > Christchurch
This morning, you'll travel to Picton by Interislander Cook Strait crossing ferry with your same vehicle and the driver. Travelling from Wellington to Picton by ferry is a classic New Zealand journey that takes just over 3 hours to cross the Cook Strait and wind through the fjord-like channels of the Marlborough Sounds. This is one of the most unforgettable journeys. The final 90 minutes are the highlight, cruising past the forest-clad hills, quiet bays, and scenic waterways of Queen Charlotte Sound. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
The ferry arrives in Picton after 3 hours, and you continue driving to Kaikoura for a dolphin encounter experience. The dolphin encounter experience is about a 4-hour dolphin-watching boat tour.
Taking the tour as a watcher offers spectacular views of these acrobatic, energised dolphins. Their exhilarating displays of jumps, leaps, tail slapping and somersaults provide the most incredible dolphin show on earth.
After the dolphin encounter, head to Christchurch city for an overnight stay
Includes: Interislander Cook Strait crossing ferry from Wellington to Picton, Kaikoura dolphin-watching boat tour
Night Stay: Christchurch hotel
Day 7: Christchurch to Queenstown via Lake Tekapo
Depart from your Christchurch hotel and drive a scenic route through the Mackenzie Basin to Lake Tekapo, a perfect spot for stargazing and booking a stargazing tour.
Visit the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the country's most photographed places. This humble church sits against the incredible backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps.
Your driver will take you from Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook to enjoy views of the mountain and Mt Cook Village.
You may leave from Mt Cook at 3 pm and reach Queenstown at 7 pm along the scenic route. You'll have time for dinner at a beautiful fine restaurant in Wanaka on your way to Queenstown.
Day 8: Queenstown to Milford Sound Coach and Cruise Tours (13 hours)
Leave the Queenstown hotel at 6:30 am for the Milford Sound tour; take a scenic coach route through the heartland to Milford Sound with beautiful views. The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the world's finest alpine drives.
The scenery is exceptional, ranging from broad grassy flats and dense rainforest to towering mountains, glacial lakes, and alpine herb fields. No other road in Fiordland offers such a diverse glimpse into New Zealand's alpine zone.
Upon reaching Milford Sound, you will enjoy a 2-hour Milford Sound Nature Cruise with a buffet lunch. The cruise, with specialist nature guides on board, offers a close-up experience of Milford Sound's rainforest, soaring rock walls, towering snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, hanging valleys and wildlife. Throughout the cruise, the guides share stories of the fiord's history and are happy to answer your questions.
After your cruise, relax while your coach takes you back to your Queenstown accommodation.
Includes: Milford Sound Coach and Cruise
Night Stay: Queenstown Hotel
Day 9: Queenstown Tours: The Jewel of the South
Explore Queenstown today. You may choose from an exciting range of optional adventure activities including jet boating, bungy jumping, white water rafting, skydiving and zip-lining, scenic flights, 4WD safaris,
This morning, after breakfast, visit the Queenstown Skyline & Gondola experience. Skyline Gondola is Queenstown's most popular activity spot for travellers, and offers Queenstown views from the top of the hill.
Skyline Gondola, the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere. Ascend to panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, and the distant Southern Alps. At the summit, experience the excitement of the Luge Ride, an exhilarating, gravity-fuelled adventure winding through alpine scenery, with options for both gentle glides and high-speed runs.
At midday, at 1 pm, travel on the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw with a BBQ lunch. The steamship disembarks at Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you will enjoy a stunning BBQ lunch and entertainment. After lunch, the farm show provides a glimpse into high country farming life.
TSS Earnslaw, a beautifully restored vintage steamship, offers a scenic evening cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy the rhythmic hum of the steam engine, the crisp alpine air, and the spectacular mountain reflections dancing on the water. This elegant experience offers a taste of Queenstown’s timeless charm and natural splendour.
After the steamship experience, you have free time to explore Queenstown city centre, take in local life, and shop for souvenirs.
Day 10: Queenstown to Franz Josef via Arrowtown, Wanaka
Say goodbye to Queenstown and travel through historic Central Otago. After breakfast, begin your scenic journey from Queenstown, travelling north through a region renowned for its dramatic alpine landscapes and timeless charm. Your first stop is Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved 19th-century gold-mining village. Stroll through its tree-lined streets, admire historic stone cottages, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere that defines this mountain town.
Continue along the Cardrona Valley Route, a high-country passage framed by rolling hills and snow-tipped peaks. Pause for photographs at the iconic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most photographed pubs, and the playful Cardrona Bra Fence, a local landmark celebrating Kiwi humour and community spirit.
Midday Stop – Lakeside Beauty in Wanaka:
Arrive in Wanaka, a tranquil resort town set beside the glistening Lake Wanaka. Capture the perfect photo of the world-famous Wanaka Tree, standing gracefully in the lake's still waters—a symbol of resilience and serenity. Enjoy free time to wander boutique shops, visit Puzzling World, or indulge in a relaxed lakeside café lunch overlooking the Southern Alps.
As you depart Wanaka, the journey unfolds into one of the South Island's most magnificent drives.
Afternoon Journey – Crossing the Haast Pass:
Travel westward through the mighty Haast Pass, a breathtaking route linking the Southern Lakes with the West Coast. The landscape shifts dramatically, from crystal-clear alpine rivers and rugged peaks to dense rainforest and tumbling waterfalls. Along the way, stop at scenic lookouts such as the Blue Pools, where glacial waters glow a vibrant turquoise, and the Thunder Creek Falls, cascading 28 metres through lush greenery.
Evening Arrival – Franz Josef Glacier Country:
Arrive in the glacier village of Franz Josef by early evening, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Te Wahipounamu region. This charming alpine settlement is the gateway to one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
Optional paid Experience: Scenic Helicopter Flight – Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers
Night Stay: Franz Josef Hotel, Motel
Day 11: Franz Josef to Greymouth & TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Christchurch
After breakfast, depart your Franz Josef accommodation and begin a scenic journey north along New Zealand’s wild and rugged West Coast. Travel through lush native rainforest, past glacier-fed lakes, and small gold-mining towns, soaking in the dramatic landscapes of this remote region. Pause for a leisure lunch (at your own expense) in Hokitika, known as New Zealand’s “wild foods capital,” and enjoy its charming boutique shops, artisan galleries, and vibrant local culture.
Continue onwards to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast, arriving at the Greymouth Transit Station around 1:30 PM. Here, you’ll prepare for one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train:
Board the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train at 2:15 PM for a luxurious rail journey from Greymouth to Christchurch, widely regarded as one of the planet’s greatest train experiences. Travel eastwards from the West Coast, ascending into the heart of Arthur’s Pass National Park. From your comfortable carriage, enjoy expansive panoramic views of lush beech forests, deep river valleys, and the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps.
Descend gradually towards the Canterbury Plains, where sweeping farmland and open skies signal your arrival at Christchurch. The train’s observation car and large windows ensure you can savour and photograph every twist, turn, and vista along the route in comfort.
Evening Arrival at Christchurch:
Arrive in Christchurch in the early evening and transfer to your luxury hotel. Spend the evening at leisure exploring the rejuvenated city, dining at one of its elegant restaurants, or relaxing and reflecting on a day of spectacular scenery and a quintessential New Zealand rail experience.
Included Experience: TranzAlpine Scenic Train – Greymouth to Christchurch
Night Stay: Christchurch Hotel
Day 12: Christchurch: City Sightseeing
Explore Christchurch:
This day is your choice of places to visit for city sightseeing or shopping in Christchurch.
Your driver will take you to your preferred visiting places, and our suggested activities. You choose the activities and pay for the activity directly
After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Stroll through the vibrant city streets and take in highlights such as the Botanic Gardens, historic cathedral precincts, and the Avon River. Discover Christchurch’s unique blend of heritage architecture, contemporary design, and public art installations that tell the story of the city’s remarkable resilience.
Christchurch Tram Ride:
Enjoy a tram ride through the heart of Christchurch for a charming, comfortable way to explore key attractions while appreciating the city’s urban renewal and tranquil green spaces. Capture memorable photographs and soak in the atmosphere before concluding your sightseeing.
After your city tour, your driver takes you back to the hotel to relax for the evening, so you can pack your belongings and prepare for your departure the next day.
Optional paid Experience: Christchurch Zoo, International Antarctic Experience Centre, Venturing to Sumner Beach, Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Night Stay: Christchurch Hotel
Day 13: Christchurch Private Airport Transfer & Farewell:
Today is your departure day, so please advise your driver of your airport arrival time for boarding procedures, and your private driver will transfer you to Christchurch Airport comfortably. Prepare for departure and bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of spectacular landscapes, cultural experiences, and luxury travel at every turn.
Our beautiful country appreciates your visit, and we hope to welcome you again.
The above itinerary is just a suggestion and may be changed
You may pay in advance from here and contact us by email at Info@brightlane.net or via the Contact Us page with full details such as passenger numbers, preferred visiting places, and your arrival details in New Zealand.
Bookings must be made at least eight weeks in advance of the date of your tour
All Bookings must be paid in advance: 20% for booking confirmation, and the balance of the total amount must be paid at least 20 days before the date of your tour, please
