About this journey
New Zealand is a beautiful destination known for dramatic mountains, clear lakes, green valleys, scenic coastlines and charming cities. From the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua and the adventure capital of Queenstown to the peaceful beauty of Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps, the country offers a wide variety of experiences in a relatively compact area. A New Zealand holiday is ideal for couples, families, honeymooners and adventure travellers. Visitors can enjoy road trips, cruises, wildlife encounters, hiking, scenic train journeys, Maori cultural experiences and outdoor activities. With its clean environment, friendly atmosphere and spectacular natural scenery, New Zealand is a great choice for travellers who want a mix of relaxation, nature and adventure.
Tour highlights
Itinerary
Welcome to the island nation of New Zealand! You will arrive in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, set between two harbours with gentle sandy shores on the east coast and black sand, wild surf beaches on the west coast. Home to sheltered, sparkling blue waters dotted with beautiful emerald islands. Collect your rental vehicle and self drive to hotel & check-in. Overnight in Auckland.
Today depart from Auckland and drive towards a journey to Rotorua. You can add one or two optional tours on your way to geothermal Rotorua. Overnight in Rotorua. Note: Auckland-Rotorua: 240km (approx 3hrs)
Today drive along spectacular views of Rotorua, where you will come across incredible geothermal landscape with its unique steam vents, spouting geysers and bubbling mud pool set alongside freshwater lakes and majestic native forests. It is also a region immersed in fascinating Maori myths and legends. Visit one of the local geothermal attractions before a sensory evening display in the forest. Overnight in Rotorua.
Today depart from Rotorua on your domestic flight to Queenstown (flight not included). Magnificent vistas and majestic mountains dominate this compact alpine resort town. After check in, you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Queenstown.
Today's breathtaking drive passes mirror lakes, magnificent waterfalls, and water-sculpted rocks. Explore Milford Sound, a New Zealand treasure carved by ice age glaciers and is famously described as the eighth wonder of the world. On arrival, board your vessel for a cruise of the fiord surrounded by towering mountains and cliffs that plunge into the sea. Lunch is included. Return to downtown Queenstown. Overnight in Queenstown. (L) Note: Queenstown - Milford: 287km (approx 3hrs, 50mins) each way
Today is a free day to explore the magnificent vistas and majestic mountains that dominates this compact alpine resort town, with such an expansive natural physical environment it is not surprising that Queenstown has been described as the Adventure Capital of the World. Overnight in Queenstown.
Travel through wilderness towns, waterfalls and river scenery on today’s scenic journey to Glacier region. You can take an optional halt at Wanaka’s wonderful world of weirdness at Puzzling World or Makarora’s Blue Pools before continuing on to Glacier region. New Zealand’s rugged West Coast is a wild and untamed place known for its rivers, rainforests, glaciers and geological treasures. Overnight in Glacier Region. Note: Queenstown – Glacier Region: 350km (approx 4hrs, 45 mins)
Enjoy the entire day at leisure to explore the magnificent glaciers of the mighty Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Visit the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, for an absolute bucket list experience. You could opt for any of the optional activities (on extra charges). Overnight in Glacier Region.
Today depart from Glacier Region enroute the spectacular scenery of the Arthurs Pass national Park and across the Canterbury Plains, a fertile patchwork made with every shade of green, to the Garden City of Christchurch. Overnight in Christchurch. Note: Glacier Region - Christchurch: 240-380km (approx 3.5-5hrs)
Your tour concludes today with the return of your rental car to Christchurch Airport.
What is included
Included
- 01 Night accommodation in Auckland
- 02 Nights in Rotorua
- 03 Nights in Queenstown
- 02 Nights in Glacier Region
- 01 Night in Christchurch
- 09 Days rental car with with zero or reduced excess liability
- Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland
- Redwoods Treewalk Nightlights
- Milford Sound Cruise including Lunch
Not included
- Daily Breakfast
- International or domestic airfares
- Airport Taxes
- Insurance
- Any items or services not specified in the inclusions
- Pre-registration or late check-out of rooms
- Gratuities
- Optional sightseeing
- Excess baggage charges
- Laundry
- Drinks
- Meals (except where indicated)
- items of a personal nature.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the best time to visit New Zealand?
New Zealand can be visited throughout the year. Summer, from December to February, is popular for sightseeing and outdoor activities, while winter is ideal for snow experiences and skiing in places such as Queenstown.
2. How many days are enough for a New Zealand trip?
For a first visit, around 8 to 12 days is a good starting point. If you want to explore both the North Island and South Island comfortably, a longer itinerary is better.
3. Which places should first-time visitors see in New Zealand?
Popular destinations include Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo and Franz Josef.
4. Is New Zealand good for honeymoon couples?
Yes. New Zealand is an excellent honeymoon destination with scenic lakes, mountains, peaceful resorts, road trips and romantic experiences.
5. Is New Zealand suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy wildlife parks, scenic drives, cruises, easy nature walks, cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions.
6. What are the best things to do in New Zealand?
Popular activities include scenic road trips, Milford Sound cruises, geothermal sightseeing, hiking, adventure sports, lake visits, wildlife experiences and Maori cultural tours.
7. Do Indian travellers need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes, Indian passport holders generally need a valid visa before travelling to New Zealand. Travellers should check the latest official visa requirements before booking.
8. What currency is used in New Zealand?
New Zealand uses the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
9. Is New Zealand expensive for tourists?
New Zealand can be moderately expensive, especially for hotels, activities and long-distance travel. The final cost depends on the season, itinerary, transport and accommodation category.
10. Is self-drive popular in New Zealand?
Yes. Self-drive holidays are very popular because the country has scenic highways and well-connected tourist routes. Travellers should be comfortable with local driving rules before choosing this option.
Best Time to Visit New Zealand
The best time to visit New Zealand is from December to February (summer), when the weather is warm and ideal for sightseeing, road trips, outdoor adventures and exploring the country’s stunning landscapes.
- December–February: Warm weather, long daylight hours and excellent for outdoor activities.
- March–May: Mild temperatures, beautiful autumn colours and fewer crowds.
- June–August: Winter season, ideal for skiing, snow activities and mountain scenery.
- September–November: Spring brings pleasant weather, blooming landscapes and fewer tourists.
Best overall: December to February for a scenic New Zealand tour.
