2027 Enchanting New Zealand Adventure with Craig Manscill

Sunday, October 31, 2027 - Depart USA

Your unforgettable adventure begins today as you board your international flight to Auckland, New Zealand. Crossing the International Date Line means you'll arrive on November 2, get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating culture, and memories to last a lifetime!

Meals : In-flight

Tuesday, November 2, 2027 - Arrive Auckland - Bay of Islands

Kia Ora and welcome to Auckland, New Zealand. Upon arrival, meet with your guide and driver at the Airport. Depart Auckland and coach to the Bay of Islands.

Admission at The Kauri Museum:

Admission to the Kauri Museum at Matakohe in the North of New Zealand is one of the country's most amazing theme Museums. This award-winning museum tells a fascinating story of the pioneering days through the use of kauri timber and kauri gum. Settlers first came to Matakohe and nearby Paparoa and Maungaturoto in 1862. This museum was established to celebrate their centennial and to pay tribute to those early pioneers. There are many exceptional displays and dedicated galleries to admire.

You can expect to see a magnificent collection of antique kauri furniture. There is restored machinery including NZ's earliest tractor, a 1929 Cat 60 and a turning Steam Sawmill. The Kauri Museum also has the largest collection of kauri gum in the world, a replica boarding house, a school and an historic post office with a fantastic collection of telephones.

Day at Footprints Waipoua/Crossings Hokianga:

Explore the Waipoua Forest for an unforgettable encounter with some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. This day tour is designed to make your trip into the forest a memorable and educational experience. Meet your local guide at the Tāne Mahuta car park in the Waipoua forest for an interactive interpretation of the importance of this tree, Tāne Mahuta ('The Lord of the Forest') to both the natural environment and the Māori people.

Group Admission + Guided Tour at Waitangi National Trust:

Waitangi welcomes you on a journey of discovery through Aotearoa New Zealand's most important historic site. Often referred to as the Birthplace of the Nation, Waitangi is where Māori and the British Crown negotiated and signed The Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document. Take an informative guided tour of the grounds and discover the stories, personalities and events that shaped New Zealand. Experience a cultural performance of singing, poi, stick games, Māori weaponry, and of course the famous haka (war dance). Includes: Admission to Waitangi grounds. Informative guided tour (50 minutes) with personal audio device, in order for you to hear clearly. Māori cultural performance (30 minutes). Free downloadable app that explains exhibits in English, French, German, Mandarin and Te Reo (please bring own headphones).

Check into your hotel. Free time at leisure.

Wednesday, November 3, 2027 - Bay of Islands - Auckland

Hole in the Rock Cruise at Fullers Great Sights (BOI):

Cruise out through the Bay’s pristine islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula. See the historic Cape Brett lighthouse and majestic Motukōkako, the Hole in the Rock, and hope for a lucky drip from above as you pass underneath it. The Bay of Islands is home to a host of marine mammals, wildlife and native birds. Keep an eye out for dolphins throughout your cruise. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you have time to relax, take a walk, have a swim or enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the on-site fully licensed café.

Highlights:

• Scenic cruise out to Motukōkako, the Hole in the Rock, on a purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks and air conditioned cabin.
• Dolphin and Whale viewing (conditions permitting).
• 1.5 hour stop at Otehei Bay to explore the island, take a swim or snorkel, hire a kayak (peak season).
• Informative and entertaining commentary throughout.

Depart Bay of Islands to Auckland. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and free at leisure.

Thursday, November 4, 2027 - Auckland

This morning, meet your driver and guide and depart for the Auckland Botanic Gardens and the Auckland LDS Temple. Entry to the Auckland Botanic Gardens is included.

In the afternoon, continue sightseeing with visits to the Harbour Bridge, Waterfront, Mission Bay, Tamaki Drive, Savage Point, Parnell Rose Park (if in season) and Village, Auckland Domain and Gardens, and the city centre.

3 Course dinner at Orbit restaurant at SKY Tower is included. Entrance to observation deck at Sky Tower is also included.

Friday, November 5, 2027 - Auckland – Hamilton - Matamata - Rotorua

Depart Auckland and coach to Rotorua via Hamilton and Matamata.

Visit Matthew Cowley Pacific Church History Centre in Hamilton to learn about the history of the Māori Agricultural College (MAC), the construction of the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, and the Church College of New Zealand (CCNZ). Group may visit the Hamilton Temple, which is approximately 10 minute walk from the museum. (2,5 hours duration to explore the area) Have a quick lunch break before departing to Hobbiton.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour:

Check in at Shire's Rest, 501 Buckland Road, 30 minutes prior to your tour time. Experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the rolling green hills on your way to the Movie Set. Your guide will then escort you around the 12-acre set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made. You will be full guided on a walking tour through the Shire, journey past Bag End, explore the inside of our newly completed Hobbit Hole™ on Bagshot Row and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.

Saturday, November 6, 2027 - Rotorua - Waitomo - Rotorua

Depart Rotorua and transfer to Waitomo for the day, before returning to Rotorua for the evening.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves at Waitomo Glowworm Caves:

Your guided tour will take you through over 250 metres of stunning underground scenery commencing with the impressive Cathedral. Your tour begins at the upper entrance of the cave and proceeds along a low narrow passage to the Tomo, a deep limestone shaft. Your experienced tour guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece and the history of the area. The highlight of your tour is an unrivalled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto.

Marvel at Mother Nature's light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Meander underground along the Waitomo River and gaze in silence at the myriad of glow worm lights that make up the Glowworm Grotto. As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you'll immediately experience a serene ambience and be fascinated and intrigued by tiny glowworms that light your way.

Te Po combo (Guided experience + Indigenous Evening) at Te Puia:

Experience the very best of Te Puia with this unforgettable journey that combines a daytime guided exploration with an evening of culture, kai, and connection. Begin with a guided walk through the world-famous Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, home to the mighty Pōhutu geyser, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents. Discover the artistry of Māori carvers and weavers at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and encounter the kiwi bird in the conservation centre. As evening falls, enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring hāngī and local delicacies before being welcomed into the meeting house for a stirring pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and cultural performance. End the night with a serene electric shuttle ride through the valley, sipping hot chocolate under the stars as the geyser is dramatically illuminated.

Tour includes:

• Guided walking tour of Whakarewarewa geothermal valley.
• New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
• Kiwi Conservation Centre.
• Buffet dinner showcasing Māori cuisine.
• Traditional pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and cultural performance.
• Electric shuttle ride through geothermal valley.
• Hot chocolate.

Sunday, November 7, 2027 - Rotorua Sightseeing

Rotorua City Sightseeing highlights: Lake Rotorua, Redwood Forest and Government Gardens.

National Kiwi Hatchery Guided Tour at National Kiwi Hatchery:

Be a part of 'conservation in action' as you take an immersive journey through the world of the kiwi at this state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility at Agrodome in Rotorua. During your 45 min guided tour you'll learn about Kiwi, their native environment and what makes them truly iconic the world over. Delve into darkness and spot foraging Kiwi in the purpose-built nocturnal house and discover the secrets of the Kiwi in dozens of interactive displays. You'll get to talk to Kiwi Keepers as you see kiwi eggs being incubated, understand the Kiwi hatching process and take a peak at newly hatched kiwi chicks.The National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa is the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques, and kiwi chick rearing. Connect with Kiwi and make a difference - 100% of your ticket goes back to the kiwi hatching programme.

Gondola & Buffet Lunch at Skyline Rotorua:

After your gondola ride to the top of Mt Ngongotaha, enjoy a premium buffet lunch at Skylines Stratofare Restaurant and Bar. Rotorua's best dining experience features a stunning array of freshly prepared and cooked to order dishes highlighting locally sourced seafood, meat & produce.

Admission at Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland:

Thousands of years in the making, explore spectacular nature at New Zealand's most colorful natural volcanic area. Walk at your own pace past the unique volcanic features which include the Champagne Pool, hot springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters, and sinter terrace formations. The natural bush setting adds another dimension to the experience as does the daily eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 to heights of up to 20 metres.

Redwoods Tree Walk:

Majestic and magical, the Redwoods Treewalk™ experience is truly a walk to remember. Suspended high above the forest floor, encounter 75-metre-tall redwoods as you walk across suspended bridges and platforms intricately designed to honor and accentuate the stunning natural environment. This award-winning, eco-tourism walk is 700m long, spans 28 suspension bridges, 27 platforms and takes about 30 minutes to complete. With the height of the walkway ranging between 9-20 meters you are presented with a unique, birds' eye perspective of the forest below and treetops about. Discover 120 year old giant redwood trees as the peaceful, breath-taking surroundings re-energize and inspire your body and soul.

Please note: Closed toe footwear must be worn at all times. Maximum individual weight 120kg.

Monday, November 8, 2027 - Rotorua - Fly - Christchurch

Enjoy a cooked breakfast before checking out of your hotel and transferring to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Christchurch (flight included). Check out of your hotel and transfer to Rotorua Airport.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, meet your driver and guide. Today, explore Christchurch and its surrounding areas. Highlights include the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Cathedral Square, and the Christchurch CBD.

Tuesday, November 9, 2027 - Christchurch - Tranz Alpine - Greymouth

This morning, transfer to the railway station to catch TranzAlpine train to Greymouth.

Tranz Alpine: Christchurch to Greymouth at The Great Journeys of New Zealand - Rail:

Travel on the world famous TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth, enjoying the incredible scenery along the way. The journey will take you coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. From your carriage you’ll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains, beautiful gorges and river valleys, the spectacular Southern Alps and the lush green valleys of the West Coast. Your train journey is 223.8 kilometres long with 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts, the highest being the Staircase standing at 73 metres.

An open air viewing carriage allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities to photograph your favourite spots.

Please note: To access engaging audio commentary and other handy features, search for the Great Journeys New Zealand app in your Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and download while connected to Wi-Fi. Please remember to pack your headphones. Wifi available on board.

Food and drink available for purchase on board the train.

Meet your coach captain in Greymouth Station and transfer to Franz Josef via Hokitika. Time permit to visit a glacier lookout.

Wednesday, November 10, 2027 - Franz Josef - Wanaka - Queenstown

This morning, we head out of Franz Josef and follow an ancient greenstone trail. View the sheer drop of Thunder Creek Falls and the grand sight of Mt Hooker, flanked on three sides by extensive glaciers. Travel over Haast Pass, marking a change from the rainforest marvel of the wild West Coast to the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes. From here you will travel further into Central Otago. View Lake Wanaka, where the shoreline is charmingly lined by poplars and willows, followed by the vivid blue waters of Lake Hawea. It is a day of gorgeous lakes, as after Hawea you will gravel over to Cromwell, situated next to the sparkling pristine waters of Lake Dunstan. Stop in at a local orchard for a taste of some of the town's delicious stone fruit then continue your journey to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Thursday, November 11, 2027 - Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown

Embark on an unforgettable full-day adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound, journeying through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery. Travel along the Te Anau–Milford Highway, where alpine peaks, ancient rainforests, and mirror-like lakes create a picture-perfect backdrop. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops at iconic spots such as Mirror Lakes and Eglinton Valley.

Milford Cruise - Sovereign Hot Buffet Lunch at RealNZ:

On arrival at the Milford Wharf, board your Real NZ vessel for your cruise of Milford Sound. The cruise takes in the length of Milford Sound, and offers excellent viewing of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. Includes hot buffet lunch.

Please note: Cash is not accepted for on vessel purchases such as additional food and beverages. Subject to weather conditions at RealNZ's discretion.

After your cruise, we’ll retrace our route back to Queenstown.

Friday, November 12, 2027 - Queenstown

Queenstown city sightseeing Highlights: Arrowtown, View Bungy Jumping, and Lake Wakatipu.

Walter Peak - Gourmet BBQ Lunch at RealNZ cruise:

Take the 40-minute TSS Earnslaw boat ride across Lake Wakatipu to the shores of Walter Peak High Country Farm. Get off the boat and discover the workings of the farm. Strolling through the property's idyllic lakeside gardens offers fantastic views of the lake and mountains. Fuel up at the farm with a delicious BBQ lunch. Be entertained by the farm demonstration, see the farm dogs at work before returning by steamboat across the lake.

Tour includes:

• Return boat trip across Lake Wakatipu on TSS Earnslaw
• BBQ lunch
• Farm show
• Duration: 3.5 hours.

Please note: Cash is not accepted for purchases such as additional food and beverages. Subject to weather conditions at RealNZ's discretion.

After the excursion, free at leisure to explore the town centre.

Saturday, November 13, 2027 - Queenstown - Mount Cook - Tekapo

Depart Queenstown to Lake Tekapo via Cromwell, Lindis Pass, Twizel and Mount Cook. Buffet lunch is included at the Hermitage, Mount Cook.

Glacier Explorer at The Hermitage:

Take a boat cruise on the Tasman Glacial Lake and experience the enormity of NZ's largest glacier as you weave in and out of floating icebergs. This is the only tour of its kind in New Zealand and one of the only accessible glacial lakes containing icebergs in the world. It’s a surreal and mesmerising experience in a totally unique environment. No two days are the same on the Tasman Lake with a constant shifting of conditions, which simply adds to the magic of this very special place.

This tour is designed to both thrill and educate as you learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape. With the effects of climate change and other climatic processes taking their toll on New Zealand glaciers, their retreat is sadly imminent. The lateral moraines remind us of the grand scale that the glacier has reached in previous times. Icebergs of every shape and size periodically tear away from the face of the glacier into the rapidly growing lake. It’s difficult to predict when a calving will take place but it’s possible you will witness one whilst you’re on a tour – a spectacular sight.

Tour includes:

• Return transport from the Hermitage Hotel to beginning of walking track
• Short alpine walk through National Park to lake edge (1.5km / approx. 25mins each way)
• Boat trip on Tasman Glacier Lake
• Life jackets. Child - Minimum 4 yrs and above.

Please note: Guests must be physically capable of walking 1.5km each way to the lake. This tour is weather dependent at The Hermitage's discretion. Weather call can be made at any time up to trip departure.

If time permits, make a photo stop at the Mount Cook lookout by Lake Pukaki. 3 course dinner is included at the hotel.

Sunday, November 14, 2027 - Tekapo - Christchurch

Depart Lake Tekapo and transfer to Christchurch. Enjoy a relaxed start before heading north through South Canterbury, visit the charming boutique village of Geraldine as you travel through to Christchurch.

On arrival at Christchurch, free day at leisure to explore the downtown. 3 course dinner is included at Curator's House Restaurant.

Monday, November 15, 2027 - Depart Christchurch - Flights Home

Transfer to Christchurch Airport and depart New Zealand with memories to last a lifetime!