All tours are private, depart daily, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Please contact us at info@arohatours.co.nz or 0064-21-890611 for more information about our luxury New Zealand tours.
Day 1: Auckland
You will be met on arrival at Auckland International Airport by your Aroha NZ Tours Representative, and transferred to your accommodation in our luxurious vehicle. Your 24 Day Tour starts with a relaxing sightseeing tour of Auckland, a chance to explore the CBD and outer area’s of the city, taking in the spectacular harbor views of the Waitemata from Auckland’s illustrious waterfront, and through some of the most expensive real estate in NZ. You will also have the opportunity to stop off and visit one of Auckland’s most prestigious shopping areas “Parnell Historical Village”, from “Parnell Historical Village” your tour continues on to the Mt Eden one of 48 dormant volcanoes situated in and around Auckland, from the summit of Mt Eden you can take in a stunning 360 degree view of Auckland city and it’s surrounding harbors. From Mt Eden your tour continues out to the magnificent west coast famous in New Zealand for its unique black sand coastline, and native bush surroundings set in one of Auckland’s many regional parks. On your return back to your accommodation we will give you the opportunity at your request to stop off and enjoy a taste of celebrated New Zealand wines that are grown and produced throughout the area. Accommodation: Auckland City
Day 2: Auckland-Square Kauri Tree-Hot Water Beach-Coromandel Peninsula
Your tour guide will collect you from your hotel. Your tour starts with a visit to the summit of Mt Eden one of 48 dormant volcanoes situated in and around Auckland, from the summit of Mt Eden you can take in a stunning 360 degree view of Auckland city and it’s surrounding harbors. From there we will take you past South Auckland to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. We will pass through the historic gold mining town of Thames. From Thames your drive takes you out along the beautiful winding coastline of the western side of the peninsula to Tapu. From Tapu your journey takes you into the hills of the Coromandel Ranges, stopping of to visit the Rapaura Water Gardens where we follow the narrow and winding scenic road alongside the Maharikau Stream which provides a short walk to the magnificent stand of New Zealand native Kauri trees, from here your tour will continue on to the beautiful and equally stunning east coast of the peninsula to Hahei. Accommodation: Coromandel Peninsula
Day 3: Coromandel
In Hahei you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque Hahei Beach where we will take you on a trek along the white sandy shoreline to Cathedral Cove and its marine reserve. A fantastic view from the lookout point will give you spectacular photo opportunities and a fabulous view of the coastline. Or explore the beautiful tranquil coast line in a small boat. (Optional – extra charge) Every inch of this volcanic coast is stunning. Boat through amazing sea caves, explore offshore islands. When conditions & tides allow, we have the option of seeing spectacular volcanic remains rarely seen by other travellers. You will experience caves, tunnels & blowholes. Visit the nearby Hot water Beach with thermal waters brewing just below the surface of the sand. Take a look at a unique art store with its local and pacific souvenirs. Accommodation: Coromandel Peninsula
Day 4: 25.02.2008 Coromandel - Bay of Plenty
As you depart the Coromandel Peninsula your tour will take you through the eastern North Island region of the Bay of Plenty, an area with a consistent mild climate level which is ideal for farming, the Bay of Plenty is also famous for its kiwi fruit crops and vineyards. Visit Mt Manganui which has become one of New Zealand’s biggest holiday destinations with its long white sand beaches. We take a experience a special maori cultural tour of the Bay of Plenty's Maketu Beach, a unique spot off the beaten track in a classic little seaside village only 15 to 30 minutes to Rotorua and the Mount. Maketu is the landing place of the Arawa people one of the 1st 3 canoes to come to New Zealand. Take a walk through a truly authentic New Zealand village, listen to our entertaining local historian, and meet the locals. This remote area is known for the stunning estuary, river and coastal panoramic views.
In the afternoon we can arranged a helicopter flight and landing on an active volcano “White Island (Optional and extra charge). Situated 50 kilometres offshore, this active island volcano constantly emits a cloud of steam and periodically erupts to a greater extent expelling volcanic ash several thousand metres into the atmosphere. The main vent is below sea level and protected by crater walls. You can walk right inside its main crater just above sea level with a minimum of physical effort and without undue risk. This allows you to experience at first hand nature's immense power as gas and steam burst up from far below the earth's crust. Accommodation: Bay of Plenty, Tauranga
Day 5: Bay of Plenty – Lake Taupo
Your tour arrives in the geothermal capital of Rotorua in the morning. Stopping off for a visit to the world-renowned “NZ Maori Arts and Crafts” and “Geothermal” centre located in what is known as 'Te Puia'. Here you will see the world famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest such geyser in the Southern hemisphere. Watch a 45-minute Maori cultural performance displayed in a traditional Maori meetinghouse where you can enjoy the beautiful songs, music and culture of the Maori. Visit a Kiwi bird house. By midday we take a floatplane over the Crater Lakes District and the volcanic rift of Mt. Tarawera. Continue south via Waimangu and Waiotapu Thermal Areas to land at the Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako. Transfer by boat across the lake to explore the bubbling hot springs, gushing geysers and natural beauty of this hidden geothermal wonderland. On return we take a Jet boat ride on the largest river in the country the Waikato. Enjoy a scenic drive through lush farmland passing boiling Mud pools. Today we stay at the nearby Lake Taupo, the largest Lake in this country on the way we stop at the Huka Falls - these spectacular falls roar through a 15-m wide chasm before plunging a further 11-m. You have the late afternoon to explore the township with its many shops and modern coffee places. Other wise you can relax in a geothermal hot pool on the beach or just scroll around the lake edges. Accommodation: Lake Taupo
Day 6: 27.02.2008 Taupo – Volcanic National Park – Taihape
After Breakfast we travel around the edges of the Lake and stop at the remote Lake Rotoaira to get our first spectacular view of the Volcanic Plateau and Mount Tongariro. We reach the park ranges, which include wildly differing landscape and scenery: from deserts to vast areas of tussock land, mountain beech forests and wetlands, all with a mix of native flora and fauna. You will see active volcanic craters, natural springs, and valleys filled with jagged lava flows. Driving through the National Park area, which is a World Heritage Site, you will get superb views at the volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. We take you near the top of Mount Ruapehu, the North Island’s highest mountain (2797 meters); by midday we drive deeper into farming country to the remote Mokai Valley, where the picturesque Rangitikei River meets the rugged Ruahine Ranges. Accommodation: Mokai Valley
Day 7: Taihape (Remote Farm-stay)
Relax in the morning, swim in the pool or take a 4wheel drive with the hosts through their farm property, watch sheep dogs on a live farm or see how a modern dairy farm works today. At midday we take you near our accommodation on a soft rafting trip through the gentle rapids and the crystal clear waters of the Rangitikei River. We pass secret waterfalls and unbelievable scenery you will float quietly through Middle Earth and pass scenes from the Movie. (This is an activity for any age group and fitness level) Here you can stop for a fish, a swim or have a picnic. Accommodation: Mokai Valley
Day 8: Taihape-Kapiti Coast-Wellington- Ferry Crossing –Marlborough Sounds
We drive via the West Coast of the North Island to the Waikanae region. This area has adopted the name of the “Gold Coast”, here you can enjoy locally made gourmet cheeses, visit orchards and walk the beautiful sandy beaches. In the afternoon we encroach on New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. Spend a few hours of your time strolling around the many shops and galleries the city has to offer. In the eary afternoon we board a Ferry to cross the Cook Strait encounter a glorious world as the ferry enters the Marlborough Sounds, from the Tory Channel into the Queen Charlotte Sound. You will discover a region of myriad inlets and bay’s with dramatic hills that plunge steeply into the sea. From there you travel to s small unique remote beach in the Marlborough Sounds. Accommodation: Marlborough Sounds
Day 9: Marlborough Sounds (Queens Charlotte Trek)
The steep, wooded hills and small quiet bays of the sounds are sparsely populated, as access is difficult. Many of the small settlements and isolated houses are only accessible by boat. The main large port is Picton on the mainland, at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. Your guide will inform you of the many option to discover the Marlborough Sound. Take a water taxi to some of the remote bays and walk the Queen Charlotte trek. Take a boat trip to the mussel farms nearby and discover the local history (optional extra charge). Blenheim is the main town in the region of New Zealand. Its lovely sunny climate makes Blenheim an ideal wine growing region. Visit world renowned wineries, olive wines and take a wine tour to taste some of the world best Sauvignon Blanc’s and Chardonnays. Accommodation: Marlborough Sounds
Day 10: Marlborough Sounds – Kaikoura
From Picton, we enter the sun-drenched wine region, New Zealand’s pre-eminent grape-growing area. Blenheim is the main town in the region of New Zealand. Its lovely sunny climate makes Blenheim an ideal wine growing region. Visit world renowned wineries, olive wines and take a wine tour to taste some of the world best Sauvignon Blanc’s and Chardonnays. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the wineries with there romantic surroundings. Leaving the wine area you travel along the East Coast of New Zealand. We pass over the arid. Rolling foothills of South Marlborough, we drop down to the dramatic Pacific Coastline. By midday we reach the small seaside town of Kaikoura which is nestled on a rugged peninsula on the East Coast and is backed by the breathtaking Seaward Kaikoura Ranges. A spectacular marine playground exists off the coast of Kaikoura; - living in this environment is the mighty Sperm Whale. Fur seals, once almost hunted to extinction are now plentiful here, resting on warm rocks after a nights fishing. Walk among these creatures at this unique beach and watch our native Seabirds, also enjoying the rich sea harvest. Accommodation: Kaikoura
Day 11: Kaikoura – Hanmer Springs
In the morning join a whale watching cruise at the beautiful coastline of the South Island. (This excursion is subject to weather and lighting conditions –optional and extra charges). We can arrange other activities, like swimming with the dolphins or with the seals. From the small village of Kaikoura your journey will take you across the alpine mountains into the small alpine settlement of Hanmer Springs. You have the opportunity to relax in the hot natural thermal waters of famous mineral pools, which are set in a garden of giant conifers. Accommodation: Hanmer Spings
Day 12: Hanmer Springs – West Coast (Wilderness lodge, rain forest)
Today your day has an interesting flavour of mountains, and native flora and fauna, as you travel through the rugged terrain that divides the east from the west. Taking the Lewis Pass over to the west coast of New Zealand, and upon reaching Reefton your tour then takes you south toward to Westport, the northern gateway to the “Wild West”. From Westport your journey winds its way through the western slopes of the west coast which displays a series magnificent mountain ranges, and native New Zealand vegetation. Your tonight’s lodge is south of Karamea, we're an ideal base for exploring all the Northern West Coast has to offer ... from wild bush and beaches to mountains and rivers, the incredible Oparara arches and caves to the renowned Charming Creek Walkway. Accommodation: West Coast
Day 13: West Coast -Pancake Rocks – Fox Glacier
We stop at Punakaki the jewel of the West Coast, Punakaiki is world renown for its pancake rock formation and blowholes. Walk along some of the stunning and remote beach treks, though a dense rainforest with Nikau Palms and large ferns. We follow the winding road along one of the most stunning coastal drives in the country. Pass the township of Greymouth and Hokitika; know both for gold and coal mining in New Zealand. After midday we take a jet boat ride to a rare white heron sanctuary. The Waitangi Roto Nature Reserve is a sanctuary to most of the bird life that you will see in the South West Heritage Area. The pristine rainforest, predominantly Kahikatea, stands tall, and shos off it's untouched beauty. Your day’s itinerary will end in the tiny settlement Fox Glacier just 25km from Franz Josef Glacier. Both Glaciers are located 25 km from each other and are unique in the world as they seem to nearly reach the ocean. By late afternoon stop at Lake Matheson were you can take a hike around this stunning surroundings. The forested path skirts the shores of the mist-shrouded lake and on a clear day, New Zealand’s highest peaks are spectacularly reflected in the mirror-like waters. Accommodation: Fox Glacier
Day 14: West Coast (Glacier area)–Lake Wanaka
In the morning we take a leisurely and scenic drive and than hike to the bottom of the famous fox glacier, which make a dramatic approach to the sea.
Highly recommended: One of the best ways to appreciate the glaciers size, its features and the blue ice crevasses, is by air. From here you can hire a helicopter to take a scenic flight over this spectacular scenery. (Very weather dependant, optional and extra charge). Another option would be a half day helicopter hike through the ice-blue caverns of the glacier. An interesting day of scenic opportunities experiencing the untamed beauty of the native New Zealand flora and fauna, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. This day gives you the opportunity see large crystal clear streams and waterfalls and it also takes you through the South Westland region to one of our World Heritage Parks Mt Aspiring National Park this area is a vast, glacial sculpted wilderness. As you exit Mt Aspiring National Park you will travel through what is known as “The Neck” a formation of land that separates two of our great South Island lakes Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. Wanaka is a new and modern Alpine resort and mostly visited by us New Zealanders. You will have the afternoon off to enjoy the scenery, go shopping or play golf. Accommodation: Wanaka
Day 15: Wanaka–(Siberia Valley)- Mt Aspiring National Park
Join us for a 4 hour wilderness adventure tour in Mount Aspiring World Heritage National Park. Take a 25 minute unforgettable scenic flight with views of Southern Alps, capturing the rugged beauty of New Zealand's World Heritage National Park. See glaciers, ice, snow, mountain lakes, hanging valleys, vast rain forests, and dramatic unspoiled beauty. Land in the glacially carved Siberia Valley in the middle of the Southern Alps and to begin a 2hr walk through valleys and native beech forest on a well marked track linking the remote Siberia Valley with the wilderness of the Wilkin Valley! And join a 30 minute exciting Jet Boat ride. Your Siberia Experience leaves from Makarora at the head of Lake Wanaka and allows you to enjoy some of New Zealand's untouched scenery from the air, on land and from the water. Accommodation: Wanaka Wanaka
Day 16: Lake Wanaka – Queenstown
Queenstown is the top adventure and activity centre in New Zealand. Most of the cast of the Lord of the Rings were based here and major parts of the movie where filmed in this region. We take you on a tour into the surrounding areas to Arthur’s Point it’s on to Coronet Peak for more spectacular views of Queenstown, to your next stop in Arrowtown, a historic colonial village that takes you back into the gold mining days of the Otago region. Because they are so many things to do in Queenstown, to cater to your diverse interests, we have left the afternoon free for you to pick and choose whatever optional activities you desire. Your guide can arrange and advise you on all the options, if you a thrill seeker and you want to go skydiving or if you just like to walk beautiful treks. We will take you to your accommodation in Queenstown from where you can take the opportunity to explore the village area and the many restaurants in the evening. Accommodation: Queenstown
Day 17: Queenstown-Milford Sound (Fiordland National Park)
We are heading for the spectacular Milford Sound, described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world” which was carved out during successive ice ages and, at its deepest point off Mitre Peak, plunges to a depth of 265 meters. The awesome splendour of this region is unsurpassed anywhere else in the World, a daring claim in a country which offers extraordinary beauty around every corner. Getting there is half of the experience; we take you through the Fiordland National Park, pass staggeringly beautiful valleys, lakes and creeks. If the time allows we will stop at the” Mirror Lakes”, before entering the narrow and dark 1km long Homer Tunnel. We take you on a day cruise into the magnificent wonder-world of the Milford Sound. You may encounter Kea’s, New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrots and we stop and explore some of nature’s wonders on the way. At Milford we board a vessel and cruise on the Fiord through sheer cliffs covered with vegetation that plunges into the sea. View the Bowen Falls, hurtling 165 meters into the sea, and the Stirling Falls further down the sound, set amidst the towering cliffs and dwarfed by Mitre Peak. On the way back we take a board walk into the “Chasm” to see surreal, water-hewn rock sculptures. We highly recommend! By Helicopter: Experience scenery on an epic scale in the Fiordland National Park, New Zealand's very own land of sheer granite mountains, with spectacular fiords reaching ever inland. A premier experience! You will journey south over Lake Manapouri and across the Main Divide to the remote southern fiords. Over-fly the small scattered islands that are unique to Dusky Sound, before heading north to the Doubtful Sounds. Take a spectacular journey past hidden alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls and lush native forest to Doubtful Sound. In the heart of the Fiordland National Park we have found a pristine spot, hidden from the rest of the world, for you to enjoy a wilderness landing. After 1 hour you heading further north to view 2 more sounds and returning via the South Arm of Lake Te Anau. (Very Weather dependant). Accommodation: Te Anau
Day 18: Te Anau (Fiordland National Park)– Catlins
In the afternoon we visit the Te Anau Glow-worm and lime Cave formations. A short boat ride will take you to these famous lime caves on the edge of Fiordland National Park. Leaving the Fiordland National Park we are heading to the most southern part of New Zealand. Natural curiosities and beauty combine to make this corner of the South Island a scenic treasure. Fossilized trees, beautiful waterfalls, golden beaches, high cliffs and secret caves are all part of a unique mix of attractions in this area. (McLean Falls and Cathedral Caves) A varied coastline provides a home to a wide range of wildlife, see sea-ions at Waipapa Point Lighthouse. Visit the unique fossil forest at Curio Bay. Take with us a short walk to the Purakaunui Falls through beech and prodocarp forest to a viewing platform overlooking these attractive waterfalls. Accommodation: Catlins
Day 19: Catlins – Dunedin
From the most Southern Point of New Zealand the guide will take you back North to the East Coast and the town of Dunedin. The splendour of many of its public buildings reflects Dunedin's economic and cultural pre-eminence in Victorian New Zealand. Today, Dunedin has a rightly deserved reputation as one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. High among the rolling hills of the Peninsula is Larnach Castle , the grand home of an early politician. Visit its historic-style garden which can be reached via the high road along the Peninsula's ridge. From here, views out to sea and back towards the city emphasise the singular beauty of Dunedin and its jewel-like harbour. Drive further to the tip of the Otago Peninsula is Taiaroa Heads, about forty minutes from the city centre. The magnificent Royal Albatross, a huge sea bird of mythology, soars above the rugged cliffs. Take a guided tour of the only mainland nesting colony of the Royal Albatross in the world. Accommodation: Dunedin
Day 20: Dunedin-Lake Tekapo-(Mt Cook)
We take you from Dunedin to Oamaru. The main Town of North Otago is a pretty town and the best-preserved collection of historic and commercial buildings in New Zealand. To the east lie the coastal climes of Timaru while, to the west, Mackenzie Country accounts for a large percent of New Zealand’s sheep population. We travel into deep into the heart of the Southern Alps and to the southern slopes of Mt Cook National Park. The region is renowned for its incredibly clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green and snow-capped mountains. Shaped by the giant forces of nature, massive glaciers have scoured the land leaving a trail of lakes and rivers across the landscape. Today you will see awesome mountain ranges - the snow capped Southern Alps stretching across the western horizon. Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain at 3,754 metres above sea level, towers over the expansive countryside. You overnight at a lodge in Twizel. The town has a rich but brief history linked to the development of the massive Waitaki Valley hydroelectric scheme. Accommodation: Twizel
Day 21: Mt Cook Area-Akaroa Peninsula
Today we pass the township of Lake Tekapo. You will encounter an array of spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand, which peaks at some 3700 meters. The Lake Tekapo shine’s all year round in a beautiful turquoise colour, and reflects the surrounding mountains. Relax at this mystical, tranquil place and take a stroll along the lake’s shores. Our trip will take us through some of the most evocative hill county in New Zealand. Speckled with small agricultural outposts, the Canterbury Plains are an area of serene, rural beauty. To the east lie the coastal climes of Timaru while, to the west, Mackenzie Country accounts for a large percent of New Zealand’s sheep population. We drive you through Canterbury to the historic French colonial village of Akaroa; only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch. The township is settled around a dormant crater and natural harbour The township is settled around a dormant crater and natural harbour. The French explorers who sailed to Akaroa in 1840 left some indelible imprints throughout the township. Accommodation: Akaroa Peninsula
Day 22: Akaroa Peninsula
Explore the village with its colonial architecture, craft stores, and cafés. Akaroa - meaning ’long harbour’ in Maori - is one of New Zealand’s most exquisite historic towns. It’s situated on Banks Peninsula, on the east coast of the South Island. In the 1830s Akaroa was a haven for European whalers keen to exploit the plentiful marine life around the peninsula. Visit the private Maori museum in Okains Bay and visit a maori Meeting house. Relax in the sun at French Bay, or find a secluded beach of your own in one of the neighbouring bays. Go cruising on the beautiful Akaroa harbour, you can choose from a variety of cruises including sailing around the harbour. You can experience the rare Hector Dolphins, fur seals and cormorant colonies and might have a chance to spot the world smallest “Blue Penguin” on a majestic harbour cruise, the smallest in the world. (This is optional – and for extra charge). This is a great place to relax on your last day and reflect on your journey through this fantastic country. Accommodation: Akaroa Peninsula
Day 24: Akaroa–Banks Peninsula-Christchurch
Your driver/guide will drive you over the summit road to the port of Littleton and than takes a short town tour of Christchurch. After you have been taken to your accommodation in city center you can explore this English influenced town on your own. Here you will have the opportunity to spend some time in the main streets , view the old Cathedral and the Victorian stone buildings. Walk the inner City with the many shops and get that one last present for your friends and family, dine at some of the local restaurants and bars, visit the Arts Centre and take a relaxing walk through the Botanical gardens. Accommodation: Christchurch
Day 24: Christchurch departure
A driver will take you to your departing/connecting flight at the airport