Kiwi Wilderness Adventure

Auckland

In a region dotted with no less than 48 volcanoes, multicultural Auckland is a thriving and exciting city, surrounded by glittering harbours and golden beaches, with a vibrant arts and culture scene. Stroll around the chilled waterfront, people-watch in buzzing Queen Street, filled with cool cafés and funky bars, browse the boutique shops of K’ Road and wander through the rose gardens and museums of Parnell. Learn more about the geology of the area as you board the ferry to Rangitoto Island, where you’ll explore the lava caves and sandy coves by 4WD road train before enjoying panoramic harbour views from the top of the 600-year-old volcano.

Taupo

Discover the real Middle-Earth as you pop into Hobbiton – world-famous film set from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies – on your way to Lake Taupo. New Zealand’s largest lake is found in a caldera in a region covered in thermal hot spots. Take a cruise, go for a swim, cast a line, or perhaps go rafting or skydiving at this scenic spot. Slightly further afield, head to the magnificent Huka Falls, a thundering torrent of water along the Waikato River, which, if you are feeling adventurous, can be explored on a thrilling jet boat ride. Take a kayak to the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, or if you wish to continue the Lord of the Rings theme you could drive to magnificent Tongariro National Park, filming location for Mordor.

Rotorua

Take in the spectacular geological features of Rotorua, a hotpot of Maori culture, bubbling springs, towering geysers and boiling mud pools. Relax in a hot springs spa or take the more adventurous approach with extensive mountain biking trails in the forests or trout fishing in the clear streams, as well as the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. Your Journey includes a ride on the gondola which whisks you up Mount Ngongotaha for fabulous views of Rotorua and the geothermal areas. At the top, wind your way back down through the forest on a thrilling luge ride. You’ll also be treated to a visit to Rainbow Springs where you can observe the cute little critters in the kiwi nursery and hatchery.

Nelson

Board your flight to the warm beaches, rugged mountains and pristine forests of sunny Nelson, home to many traditional and Maori artists. It’s definitely got a creative vibe, with studios and galleries abounding. Head across crystal-clear turquoise seas by water taxi to nearby Abel Tasman National Park, where you can follow the walking tracks to explore the varied coastline and discover the varied bird and marine life of this beautiful park. Back in town, test out one of myriad dining options – why not try the deliciously fresh Nelson Bay and sample scallops for dinner while overlooking the bay?

Franz Josef

Continue south to the icy formations and frozen landscape of the Franz Josef Glacier, located just outside the cosy little town of the same name. Franz Josef is one of the most visited glaciers in New Zealand, and for good reason. This stunning frozen formation is 7.5 miles long, descends to less than 300 metres above sea level and is surrounded by lush rainforest, making for an incredible sight. Here you’ll participate in a scenic Glacier Valley Walk, walking along the river to the dramatic face of the ice.

Queenstown

Scare yourself silly with a range of adventurous activities in adrenaline-fuelled Queenstown – there’s everything from bungee jumping and jet boating, to skiing and river rafting, all topped off with a pulsating nightlife. The town has an enviable setting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by majestic mountains which are best appreciated from the Skyline Gondola. After all that excitement, calm down with a more sedate cruise through the imposing Milford Sound. Travel across the stunning Southern Alps and admire the beautiful valleys, emerald forests and mirror lakes, then board your boat to see the glacier-sculpted walls of Milford Sound up close.