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High view point of Queenstown looking over lake and mountains
Land Tour

Essence of New Zealand

2025 - 2026

Land Tour

Essence of New Zealand

Essence of New Zealand

Discover New Zealand in depth beginning in Christchurch as you explore the South Island. View Aoraki Mount Cook, visit Dunedin and Queenstown, cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, see idyllic surrounds at Franz Josef/Waiau, and ride the TranzAlpine train. In the North Island, visit Wellington, Napier, Rotorua, Auckland and the Bay of Islands.

ChristchurchAuckland
20 Days Land Tour

Itinerary

To view the itinerary in greater depth, simply click on your preferred day from the interactive list to unveil its details. Discover daily activities, immersive experiences and insider local tips that make your travel unforgettable.

Christchurch to Auckland

20 days / 19 night Land Tour

Day 1

Arrive Christchurch

Signature Experience

Day 2

Christchurch, Lake Tekapo/Takapō, Aoraki/Mount Cook

Signature Experience

Day 3

Aoraki/Mount Cook, Dunedin

Day 4

Dunedin, Te Anau

Day 5

Te Anau

Freedom of Choice

Day 6

Te Anau, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Queenstown

Signature Experience

Day 7

Queenstown

Freedom of Choice

Day 8

Queenstown

Day 9

Queenstown, Franz Josef/Waiau

Signature Experience

Day 10

Franz Josef/Waiau, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch

Signature Experience

Day 11

Christchurch, Kaikōura, Blenheim

Signature Experience

Day 12

Blenheim

Freedom of Choice

Day 13

Blenheim, Picton, Wellington

Signature Experience

Day 14

Wellington, Napier

Signature Experience

Day 15

Napier, Taupō, Rotorua

Signature Experience

Day 16

Rotorua

Freedom of Choice

Day 17

Rotorua, Auckland

Freedom of Choice

Day 18

Auckland, Bay of Islands

Day 19

Bay of Islands

Signature Experience

Day 20

Bay of Islands, Depart Auckland

Coach/Vehicle
Cruise
Rail

Frequently Asked Questions

Trip Notes

  • Itinerary, hotels, pricing and inclusions are subject to change

  • Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations

  • APT highly recommends travel insurance

  • Prices are fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, cruises, and meals as specified, as well as accommodation

  • Prices are for land and/or cruise only. Flights not included unless specified

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