Discover the Wonders of New Zealand: An Unforgettable Adventure
- Mary-Gail Durst
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
Travel & Accommodation
7 days, 1 country and 3 cities
6 nights accommodation
Meals
6 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
Explore Waitomo Caves, and National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua
Discover Queenstown, Auckland, and Rotorua
Visit A sheep and deer farm, and Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley in Rotorua
Embark on an extraordinary journey through New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. Your adventure begins in Queenstown, the bustling heart of the South Island, where scenic beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities await.
Queenstown: The Adventure Capital
Start your day with a relaxing morning at one of Queenstown’s picturesque lakefront restaurants or bars. Indulge in some of New Zealand’s famed lamb paired with a glass of Pinot Noir from the renowned Otago wine region, offering an authentic taste of local flavors.
Spend your day exploring Queenstown’s thrilling outdoor activities. For an adrenaline rush, try the optional jet boat ride with Skippers Jet through the exhilarating Skippers Canyon. Alternatively, take a cruise through the rainforests of Fiordland National Park in Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at towering cliffs, snow-capped peaks, and cascading waterfalls—an awe-inspiring showcase of New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Wine enthusiasts can enjoy a curated tour of the Otago region, visiting three boutique vineyards to sample exquisite Pinot Noir and other local varieties, complemented by a delicious wine-paired platter lunch.
Cultural Immersion in Rotorua
Next, head to Rotorua, New Zealand’s cultural and geothermal capital. Here, you’ll walk through Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village—a place where tradition and hospitality unite. Experience Māori customs firsthand as your host shares stories, traditions, and values rooted in manaakitanga (hospitality), fostering genuine cultural connections.
In the evening, enjoy the Te Po Māori Cultural Experience at Te Puia, which features a captivating performance in a traditional meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. Marvel at the geothermal wonder of Pohutu Geyser and savor a hangi-inspired dinner that pays homage to Māori culinary traditions.
Excursions to Enrich Your Journey
Farm Visit: Meet a local South Island farmer—a true 'Southern Girl'—and enjoy warm hospitality while learning about rural life in New Zealand.
Kiwi Conservation: Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua to learn efforts dedicated to saving New Zealand’s iconic bird, the kiwi.
Cultural Insights: Whakarewarewa fosters a deep respect for Māori traditions and community, allowing visitors to connect through storytelling and shared experiences.
Māori Night: The Te Po experience combines storytelling, cultural performances, and a hangi dinner at Te Puia, offering a deep dive into Māori history and customs.
Optional Add-On Adventures
Central Otago Wine Tour: Explore three sub-regions—Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell—on a tasting journey through some of New Zealand’s best vineyards.
Lord of The Rings Scenic Tour: Travel through iconic filming locations such as Isengard, Lothlórien, and the Misty Mountains, immersed in the stunning landscapes of Glenorchy and the Dart River Valley. Discover the remarkable history and culture behind these mythical settings.
Milford Road & Milford Sound: One of the world’s most scenic alpine drives, featuring towering mountains, lush rainforests, and shimmering glacial lakes. Upon arrival, embark on a cruise through Milford Sound, regarded as one of the world’s natural wonders, where waterfalls thunder down sheer cliffs and the scenery is simply awe-inspiring.
This journey through New Zealand combines natural splendor, cultural richness, and exhilarating adventures—an experience that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. Whether soaring through fjords, savoring local wines, or engaging with Māori traditions, New Zealand promises an adventure like no other.
Are you ready for this great adventure? Start packing!
Contact Mary-Gail Durst
780-289-2385
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