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8-Nights New Zealand: Wildlife, Vines & Fjords - Custom Groups of 10+

New Zealand

Vacation Overview

Tour Details
Epic Scenery, Wildlife Encounters Discover New Zealand on a custom group journey, weaving wild coastlines, vineyards, fjords, and island flavours into a seamless tale of land and sea.

Trip Overview:

Explore New Zealand on an eight-night adventure that blends wild coastlines, award-winning vineyards, and the grandeur of its southern fjords. 

Begin in Christchurch, a city of gardens and art, before a day trip to Akaroa, where French charm, marine life, and an Antarctic encounter set the tone for discovery. Journey south to Dunedin to witness the majestic royal albatross, then board a scenic rail that threads through valleys and mountains en route to Queenstown. Here, indulge in a wine experience among Central Otago’s celebrated vineyards and cruise the still waters of Lake Wakatipu. A dedicated Milford Sound excursion reveals towering cliffs and waterfalls, followed by the magical glow of Te Anau’s limestone caves. Continue north to Auckland, New Zealand’s cosmopolitan gateway, and spend a day on Waiheke Island, where boutique wineries and coastal dining showcase the country’s artistry with food and wine.

This carefully paced itinerary highlights the best of New Zealand’s South and North Islands, from albatross colonies and fjord landscapes to vineyard tastings and harbour cruises. Each day combines natural spectacle with cultural flavour, ensuring your group experiences both the wild heart and refined pleasures of a country shaped by sea, stone, and sun.



Highlights:
  • Cruise Akaroa Harbour spotting Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins amid dramatic volcanic scenery.
  • Discover Dunedin’s Victorian charm and the soaring Royal Albatross at their only mainland colony.
  • Ride the Taieri Gorge Railway before savouring Central Otago wines and Queenstown’s alpine vistas.
  • Glide through Milford Sound and Te Anau’s glowworm caves, surrounded by waterfalls and starlit grottos.
  • Toast your journey on Waiheke Island with fine wines, island views, and a seaside farewell dinner.


Included Services:
  • 8 nights hand-picked hotel accommodation in a shared room, featuring excellent locations and comfort:
    • 2 nights Christchurch – Distinction Christchurch Hotel or similar
    • 1 night Dunedin – Distinction Dunedin Hotel or similar
    • 2 nights Queenstown – Millennium Queenstown or similar
    • 1 night Te Anau – Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas or similar
    • 2 nights Auckland – M Social Auckland or similar
  • Meals as indicated on itinerary:
    • Breakfast daily
    • 3 specialty lunches (2 winery, 1 BBQ)
    • 2 three-course dinners
  • All transfers and touring by private, air-conditioned coach with a professional driver
  • Dedicated guide throughout for personalized service
  • Transfers between Auckland airport terminals
  • Porterage for one suitcase per person at hotels
  • Sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, including:
    • Christchurch and Akaroa highlights, with Antarctic Centre and wildlife cruise
    • Dunedin and Otago Peninsula, including Taieri Gorge Railway and Royal Albatross Centre
    • Central Otago wine experience with tasting and vineyard lunch
    • Queenstown highlights with Arrowtown, Lake Wakatipu, TSS Earnslaw steamship cruise and Milford Sound
    • Auckland sightseeing, All Blacks Experience, Waiheke Island wine tour, and farewell dinner

Excluded Services:
  • All airfares, departure taxes & fuel surcharges, seat selection
  • Additional charges will apply for extra transfers if anyone in the group is arriving or departing on different flights.
  • Any future fuel surcharges on land arrangements or additional costs due to COVID rules
  • Personal items
  • Changes in Government taxes and/or city taxes
  • Optional Tours
  • Meals unless listed in itinerary or above
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Early check-in & late check out of rooms (standard check-in time is 2pm and check out 10am)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Passport & Visa handling fees

Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Christchurch

Arrive at Christchurch Airport and meet your friendly guide and coach driver. Transfer to your hotel and settle in before beginning your New Zealand adventure. This afternoon, enjoy a half-day panoramic city tour, taking in the highlights of Christchurch, known as the "Garden City."


Enjoy a welcome dinner to get to know your fellow travelers


Hotel: Distinction Christchurch Hotel (4 Star Rating)

The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions


Meal(s): Dinner



Day 2: Akaroa Day Trip & Antarctic Adventure

After breakfast, travel to the charming French-influenced village of Akaroa. Along the way, visit Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory, meet the cheesemakers, and sample delicious local specialties. Board a Black Cat Nature Cruise and spot wildlife such as the rare Hector’s dolphin, penguins, fur seals, and seabirds while enjoying breathtaking volcanic landscapes.


Return to Christchurch and visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive experience, including the thrilling Hägglund all-terrain vehicle ride, storm dome, and 4D theater. Learn about Antarctica’s wildlife, history, and exploration.


Hotel: Distinction Christchurch Hotel (4 Star Rating)

The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions


Meal(s): Breakfast



Day 3: Christchurch to Dunedin with Albatross Encounter

Depart Christchurch and travel south, stopping at the historic town of Oamaru to stroll through its Victorian precinct, once a film location for East of Eden. Continue to Moeraki to see the unique spherical boulders scattered along the coast.


On arrival in Dunedin, visit the Royal Albatross Centre, home to the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross. Learn about their fascinating life cycle and conservation efforts while watching these magnificent birds soar overhead.


Hotel: Distinction Dunedin (4 Star Rating)

Distinction Dunedin is a 2021 Travellers Choice Winner, ranked in the top 25 of all hotels in NZ, Australia & the South Pacific on TripAdvisor. The Dunedin hotel presents a variety of premier accommodation to suit everyone from the businesses traveller requiring spacious and modern facilities to those wanting a relaxing weekend away. All 121 elegant suites and studio rooms offer superior soundproofing and are outfitted with cloud-like beds, a microwave, washer/dryer, 55" televisions and luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain showers. FREE high speed WiFi is available.


Meal(s): Breakfast



Day 4: Scenic Rail Journey & Queenstown Wine Experience

Begin the day with a scenic Taieri Gorge Railway journey, crossing viaducts, tunnels, and rugged landscapes while hearing stories of Otago’s history. At Pukerangi, rejoin your coach and continue toward Queenstown, stopping at scenic points along the way.


Visit Kinross Winery for a premium wine tasting featuring five exceptional wines from the Central Otago region, followed by a delicious two-course lunch showcasing seasonal local produce.


Arrive in Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, and check into your hotel.


Hotel: Millennium Queenstown (4 Star Rating)

Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star hotel located in central Queenstown, just a short walk from the lake, shops, and popular attractions. It offers 220 comfortable rooms, many with mountain or lake views.

The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and meeting rooms. It’s close to adventure activities like skiing, jet boating, and hiking. Guests like its quiet location, friendly staff, and clean rooms.


Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch



Day 5: Queenstown & Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Start the morning with sightseeing around Queenstown, including charming Arrowtown, breathtaking Lake Wakatipu views, and a stop to watch adventurous travelers bungy jumping.


Board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamboat for a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Explore the farm, watch sheepdogs in action, and enjoy a gourmet BBQ lunch featuring local flavors.


Return to Queenstown with the afternoon free to explore at your leisure.


Hotel: Millennium Queenstown (4 Star Rating)

Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star hotel located in central Queenstown, just a short walk from the lake, shops, and popular attractions. It offers 220 comfortable rooms, many with mountain or lake views.

The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and meeting rooms. It’s close to adventure activities like skiing, jet boating, and hiking. Guests like its quiet location, friendly staff, and clean rooms.


Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch



Day 6: Milford Sound & Glowworm Caves

Travel through stunning Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound, where you’ll embark on a two-hour cruise surrounded by dramatic waterfalls, rainforest, and towering peaks. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and penguins along the way.


In the evening, take a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau before venturing into the magical Glowworm Caves. Marvel at limestone formations, underground waterfalls, and a hidden grotto lit by thousands of tiny glowworms.


Hotel: Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau (3 Star Rating)

Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas offers elegant accommodation and FREE unlimited WiFi for the perfect Fiordland getaway. Surrounded by extensive, colorful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this 4-star hotel, and villa accommodation set the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions.


Located on the Te Anau lakefront, a short stroll from the Te Anau town center, Distinction Te Anau is perfectly situated for you to make the most of this beautiful area. If you need an escape from everyday life and a chance to indulge yourself with a relaxing holiday, this is the place for you.


Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner



Day 7: Te Anau to Auckland via Queenstown

After breakfast, transfer to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Auckland (flight not included). Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day city tour before visiting the All Blacks Experience, an interactive, multi-sensory journey celebrating New Zealand’s world-famous rugby heritage. Witness the awe-inspiring haka and test your skills in fun, hands-on activities.


Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.


Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.


Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.


Meal(s): Breakfast



Day 8: Waiheke Island Wine & Dine Adventure

Take a short walk to the ferry terminal and cruise to Waiheke Island, known for its world-class vineyards and stunning scenery. Enjoy a guided wine and dine experience, including a multi-course seasonal lunch and a glass of local wine at a premier vineyard.


Spend the afternoon exploring the island or relaxing before returning to Auckland by ferry. In the evening, savor a three-course farewell dinner at Harbourside Bar & Grill with fresh seafood, premium meats, and fine wines.


Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.


Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.


Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.


Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner



Day 9: Farewell to New Zealand

Enjoy a final cooked breakfast before transferring to Auckland International Airport for your departure flight. Take with you wonderful memories of New Zealand’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural treasures.


Meal(s): Breakfast



Included Amenities

Contact us for details on inclusions for this package.

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$3,822

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Trip Summary
Supplier Goway Travel
Departure Date Multiple Dates Available
Duration 8 Nights
Offer ID 1722978
Call Vincent Vacations: 1 (888) 883-0460
Pricing is dynamic and subject to change based on specific travel dates, room categories and availability. Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travelers are available on request - please inquire with your Travel Advisor.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.