Compare Trails of New Zealand by Exodus Travels vs Highlights of New Zealand by Audley Travel

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

The day is free to relax and recover from the flight. If you’re arriving into Auckland Airport today, you can arrange a free arrival (shared shuttle) transfer from the airport to the hotel – see the Joining Instructions for more information. Auckland is a beautiful city and worthy of time to explore. The nearby Viaduct restaurants are an ideal means of overcoming the last of the jetlag. If you’re feeling lucky, visit the SkyCity casino and entertainment tower for one of those lunches you just don’t forget. Please meet at the start hotel at 6pm for a full briefing with your leader. Accommodation: Copthorne Auckland City Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Visit Rangitoto Island

Auckland is the City of Sails, so what better way to start your trip than to cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to beautiful Rangitoto Island? At 600 years’ old, it is actually the youngest volcano in New Zealand. The island has undergone a significant restoration programme and is entirely pest-free, which encourages the native flora and fauna to thrive. We walk through lava fields and forests to the island summit (850ft/259m) for stunning panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. Please note: Occasionally, access is temporarily and unexpectedly denied to various islands off the Auckland coast including Rangitoto due to cultural considerations. In this case, we respect the local Māori wishes and try to visit an alternative island if possible. Accommodation: Copthorne Auckland City Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 To Rotorua

Leaving the city, we head south to Rotorua (approximately 3hr 30min drive). On arrival, we stretch our legs with a hike around a redwood forest followed by an afternoon at leisure in town or an optional hike at Blue Lake. The evening highlight is a visit to a marae (ceremonial ground). Our Māori hosts welcome us in their traditional manner before entertaining us with a concert and hangi (traditional meal). Accommodation: Jet Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 To Tongariro National Park

We explore one of the most colourful thermal areas in New Zealand with boiling mud pools, hot streams and silica terraces. The natural wonders that first attracted the Māori in the 14th century, and later the Europeans, still draw large numbers of tourists every year. Rotorua is a unique natural wonder and a must-see destination. Leaving Rotorua, we drive south (approximately three hours) to Tongariro National Park. On the way, we visit the steaming Wai-O-Tapu geothermal valley and impressive Huka Falls. Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Free day in Tongariro National Park; option to hike Tongariro Crossing and other activities

We wake up in the heart of Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand and a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the important Māori cultural and spiritual associations plus its outstanding volcanic features. If you’re physically fit and well equipped, there is the option of walking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: one of the greatest one-day walks in New Zealand. Provided the weather is kind, the rugged volcanic desert, craters and glacial valleys combine with incredible views to make this a day to remember. The crossing should not be underestimated and there are several steep sections where the loose surface can make it tough going, so come well-prepared. The crossing can take seven to eight hours depending on walking ability. There is a return shuttle service – 50 New Zealand dollars (US$31) per person – from your hotel to the start and finish of the crossing. Your leader provides you with information about the walk and can advise you on the fitness and equipment required. If you are intending to do the crossing, please bring sturdy walking shoes/boots, a suitable backpack, wind- and waterproof jacket and a warm hat. Distance: 12mi (19.4km); ascent: 2,510ft (765m); descent: 3,691ft (1,125m); total time: approximately seven to eight hours Alternatively, there are several other options available to experience the wonders of this unique environment. These include the Taranaki Falls walk, one of the best short walks in the park. This easy loop takes in a variety of volcanic landforms, forest and native shrubland along with excellent volcano and waterfall views. Distance: 3.7mi (6km); ascent: 377ft (115m); descent: 377ft (115m); total time: approximately 2hr 30min Other options include a visit to the park conservation centre, a trip up Mount Ruapehu on the Sky Waka gondola with a short walk to the viewing platform, a visit to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools or a unique rafting experience including the opportunity to help with conservation efforts for an endangered native duck. Your leader will discuss the options and additional costs for the day. Based on the weather and interest of the group, your leader can join the majority of the group in their chosen activity. Where external transfers or the services of an external provider are required, then additional costs are payable on the day. Please also see the Optional Excursions section of the Trip Notes for further details. Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 To Wellington

Relax following yesterday’s free day of exploring Tongariro National Park as we drive (approximately five hours) south to Wellington. Continue across the Rangitikei and Manawatu Plains and down the Kapiti Coast to Wellington. On Wellington waterfront is Te Papa, the NZ National Museum, which we can explore in the afternoon along with the beautiful botanic gardens and cable car and enjoy the exciting nightlife of the capital city. Accommodation: The Bay Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 Ferry across Cook Strait to Marlborough; drive to Abel Tasman National Park

After an early breakfast, we board the ferry and leave the North Island as we cross the Cook Strait, passing the Marlborough Sounds with 932mi (1,500km) of beautiful coastline. From Picton, we have a 1hr 30min drive to Nelson where we can take time out to explore the city and a chance to stretch our legs with a short walk to the geographical centre of New Zealand. After, we drive to the small town of Motueka (approximately one hour) on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, home to idyllic gold-sand beaches and forests. Accommodation: Avalon Manor Motel (or similar)

Day 8 Half-day coastal walk; boat to Motueka

We have a 25-minute transfer to the village of Marahau, where a morning coastal walk takes us through beautiful beaches and coastal vegetation. The path is well maintained and the walk takes approximately three to four hours. We meet our sailing boat at Anchorage Bay, providing our return to Marahau and time to relax and dine out in Motueka. (Depending on tides, sometimes the sailing trip is completed first). Please note, today your leader has a guide-free day. Instead, you are accompanied by a local guide on the coastal walk who has expert local knowledge. Return transfers from Motueka are provided. Accommodation: Avalon Manor Motel (or similar)

Day 9 To Buller River; sunset walk at Punakaiki

Our departure from Abel Tasman National Park is followed by a scenic drive down the mighty Buller River. After a short stop at Cape Foulwind to see the seal colony, we stop at Punakaiki, home of the famous Pancake Rocks, to watch the setting sun (drive time: approximately five hours). If the tide is up, the ground can physically shake and water spurts from the blowholes and fissures that dot the coastline. Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort (or similar)

Day 10 To Fox Glacier, passing Okarito en route

Passing through areas of lush forests, we continue south down the beautiful west coast. We drive onto the small lagoon-side village of Okarito, home of the rare kotuku (white heron). On offer here is optional kayaking where we float in on the incoming tide and explore the bush-clad waterways seeking out the abundant bird life here. Those looking to stretch their legs can hike to the nearby trig station (approximately 1hr 30min) for spectacular views over the Southern Alps. Later, we continue the short drive through to Fox township. Depending on time, you may have an opportunity to hike to the lookout for the Franz Josef Glacier. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (or similar)

Day 11 Walk to Fox Glacier; continue to Wanaka

After breakfast, we backtrack to the township of Franz Josef. From here, we go for a walk to the lookout point for the glacier (if not completed the day before). After, we drive on and stroll around the reflective Lake Matheson, a photographer’s dream. We then continue south along bush-clad roads and past the dramatic coastline with its wild windswept beaches to the settlement of Haast. Turning inland, we climb over Haast Pass, the southernmost crossing of the Southern Alps, which forms the boundary between Westland and Otago. From here, the tussock lands of the eastern slopes merge with beech forests. We travel through to Wanaka, home for the next two nights. Lake Matheson Loop: Distance: 1.6mi (2.6km); ascent: 138ft (42m); descent: 138ft (42m); total time: approximately 1hr 30min Fox Glacier Valley Walkway: Distance: 1.6mi (2.6km); ascent: 223ft (68m); descent: 226ft (69m); total time: approximately one hour Accommodation: Wanaka Hotel (or similar)

Day 12 Jetboat in Matukituki

In the morning, we head into Mount Aspiring National Park for an exciting jetboat ride along the braided rivers leading into the park. Jetboating was invented in NZ as a means to negotiate the shallow braided rivers that we use to access a track leading to a hike into the cirque surrounded by huge mountain walls. Back at our coach, we eat our picnic lunch before driving onto our three-hour hike at beautiful Diamond Lake, which provides stunning views of the river delta and the landscape. Matukituki Valley: Distance: 1.3mi (2.2km); ascent: 95ft (29m); descent: 95ft (29m); total time: one hour Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Circuit: Distance: 4.4mi (7.1km); ascent: 1,434ft (437m); descent: 1,417ft (432m); total time: approximately two to three hours Accommodation: Wanaka Hotel (or similar)

Day 13 Transfer to Milford Sound and board overnight boat

From Wanaka, we depart early heading for Te Anau and then into Eglington Valley, enjoying a series of short walks in the spectacular Milford region and then into Milford Sound itself where we join our floating accommodation for the night. The Milford Mariner boat, which has two-bed cabins with private bathrooms, allows us to stay overnight amid dolphins and mighty peaks towering above the fjord. Walk profile: Various short walk options on Milford Road of up to one hour depending on group fitness, weather and time Accommodation: Milford Mariner

Day 14 Cruise inner sound; drive to Queenstown

After an early breakfast, we cruise the inner sound again searching for dolphins and seals before disembarking and retracing our tracks to The Divide and the start of the Routeburn Track. Here we take a three-hour walk to Key Summit for spectacular views. After this hike, we drive via Te Anau (approximately four hours) onto Queenstown, where we stay for the next two nights. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Day 15 Free day in Queenstown

Today is free to enjoy the scenic delights of this world-famous destination! There are numerous activities on offer, which your leader can advise about locally. Or you may just prefer to spend the day shopping or relaxing. Today your leader has a guide-free day but they can advise on how best to spend your free day in Queenstown. Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown (or similar)

Day 16 Transfer to Mount Cook National Park; trek in Hooker Valley

Travel through the barren Kawarau Gorge where large amounts of gold were dredged at the turn of the century. Drive over Lindis Pass to the tussock-covered plains of the Mackenzie Basin and into Mount Cook National Park (approximately four hours). Beneath the highest peak in NZ, we walk into Hooker Valley, which has crashing glaciers and glacial lakes. By early evening, we reach our accommodation and watch the spectacular view from the warmth of the restaurant. Accommodation: Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge/Aoraki Court Motel (or similar)

Day 17 Drive to Christchurch via Canterbury Plains

After breakfast, we drive to Christchurch via the Canterbury Plains. After the devastating earthquakes of 2010/11, Christchurch is undergoing a major rebuild, unrivalled in the world. The afternoon is free for you to explore this city, beautiful gardens and Hagley Park followed by an optional final group dinner. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold Christchurch (or similar)

Day 18 End Christchurch

The trip finishes after breakfast and checkout from the hotel. A free departure transfer by taxi from the hotel to Christchurch Airport is included but it must be booked at least one month before departure.

Day 1 : International outbound flight

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Auckland.

Day 2 : International outbound flight

On-board your international outbound flight to Auckland.

Day 3 : Auckland

Upon arrival in Auckland you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation. We will also have arranged for a set of documents to await you, which will include a detailed driving atlas and local information guides. After you have settled into your hotel room, venture out into Auckland to begin exploring New Zealand's largest city under your own steam. Take a boat ride around the harbour, or visit the city's many shops and museums. This evening, we recommend making your way to the harbour area which has an abundance of bars and restaurants.

Day 4 : Rotorua

This morning enjoy a half day small group Auckland highlights tour, which is a fantastic introduction to both the city and New Zealand. You then collect your car and make the three hour drive south to Rotorua. We'll have organised your car to be ready at your closest depot at a convenient time for you. All insurances are included in your car hire package and a sat-nav is also available on request.The drive to Rotorua takes around four hours and it's a straightforward, scenic drive. Following the motorway south out of the city, you'll drive through flat pasture lands, then a forested plateau before arriving at Lake Rotorua.

Day 5 : Rotorua

You have the whole day at leisure to explore the thermal plateau region. Take a drive to Lake Taupo and en route, stop at Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Reserve to see Lady Knox Geyser and the bubbling mud basins known as the Devil's Ink Pots. This evening, you have tickets to a Maori cultural evening, where you'll experience traditional performances and a delicious 'Hangi' feast.

Day 6 : Tongariro National Park

Depart for Tongariro National Park where you will spend tonight. You may wish to try one of the many shorter walks available within the park and will notice how dramatically different the scenery here is compared to Rotorua.

Day 7 : Wellington

Depart today for Wellington. Stop en route for coffee and lunch at one of the small rural service towns you will pass through. Once in Wellington, you will have time at leisure to explore the capital city. An excellent recommendation is the national museum, Te Papa, where you will have the opportunity to learn a little more about New Zealand's history and Maori culture. You may also like to take a trip up to Zealandia, a fabulous native bird sanctuary on the hills above Wellington.

Day 8 : Blenheim

Make your own way to the ferry terminal this morning and board the InterIslander ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island. The crossing takes around three hours. Upon arrival in Picton you collect your hire car from the ferry terminal and make the short 30 minute drive into the Blenheim and Marlborough winelands.Spend the afternoon exploring the Blenheim winelands. If you'd like to explore at leisure we recommend hiring a push bike and visiting the well-known Blenheim and Marlborough vineyards such as Cloudy Bay or Oyster Bay. Alternatively, we can arrange guided tours of the region and its vineyards.

Day 9 : Hanmer Springs

This morning take the beautiful inland drive to Hanmer Springs, this is a very scenic drive and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.Spend the rest of today at leisure in Hanmer Springs, you might like to take a relaxing dip in the natural hot pools and then go for a walk to take in the beautiful alpine scenery.

Day 10 : Christchurch

Today, drive to Christchurch where you will have time to explore the city this afternoon, check out the Re-Start container mall and perhaps visit the Antarctic centre.Try out one of the fabulous restaurants in the city tonight, the Tram restaurant is a great way to see the city whilst dining.

Day 11 : Franz Josef Glacier

Drop your car at the airport and take a taxi to the train station this morning where you board the TranzAlpine train. This three hour scenic journey takes you across the Southern Alps through Arthur's Pass National Park to South Island's west coast.Upon arrival in Greymouth you collect your hire car from the train station and take a leisurely drive down to the Glaciers. We can highly recommend stopping en route at the small town of Hokitika for lunch. The drive to Franz Josef takes around three hours.

Day 12 : Franz Josef Glacier

Today you will enjoy a fabulous heli hike on the Franz Josef glacier. You will be flown up over the glacier before landing where you will put on your crampons and your guide will pick out a path with his pick axe, enabling him to show you the best ice formations on the glacier that day. Your helicopter will collect you and fly you back down to the township where you have access to the relaxing hot pools for the afternoon.

Day 13 : Queenstown

This morning, you will drive south to Queenstown. On the way, there are plenty of short walks to take in the Haast Pass and scenic spots to enjoy. Stop off for the afternoon in Wanaka, a beautiful lakeside town surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Then take the road over the Cardrona range to Queenstown which offers you spectacular views of the Queenstown area.

Day 14 : Queenstown

You will join the Dart River Wilderness Safari today - a great half day excursion including an exhilarating jet boat ride followed by a short guided walk and scenic 4WD trip through the forest where you will learn about the local flora and fauna as well as local Maori and colonial history. The trip will take you to Glenorchy and you will have the opportunity to view some of the filming locations of Lord of The Rings during the tour!

Day 15 : International return flight

Today make your own way to the airport in time for your onward flight.

Day 16 : International return flight

Arrive home today to complete your journey.