Today you will travel north along the coast to Kaikoura where you will depart on a whale watch cruise. During the cruise you will search for giant Sperm Whales, Orca and Humpback Whales as well as Dusky and Hector Dolphins and seabirds. You will return to Christchurch this afternoon.

This morning you will be transferred to the railway station to board the scenic Tranz Alpine Express train, a journey famous for its spectacular mountain scenery as it travels across the Canterbury Plains and traverses the Southern Alps. (Self-drive passengers collect their rental car at the Train Station depot in Greymouth)

Travel southward following the West Coast to the Glacier Region. Here you have the option to enjoy a guided walk to the Glacier terminal, or take a scenic flight for a bird's eye view of this spectacular terrain.

A memorable trip through some of the most magnificent scenery in New Zealand. Through the beech forest of Mt Aspiring National Park, over the Haast Pass, and via Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka.

A full day free to explore the many exciting optional excursions available in Queenstown. Take a scenic flight, gondola ride or perhaps cruise the lake on the vintage Earnslaw. Try a thrilling jetboat ride or the Dart River excursion, white water rafting or the world famous bungy jump. (For self-drive passengers we suggest a visit to nearby historical Arrowtown)

An early start as you follow Lake Wakatipu via Kingston arriving in Te Anau for a morning tea break. Follow the shores of Lake Te Anau before entering the Eglington Valley. Pass the mirror lakes and travel through the avenue of the disappearing mountain. Our spectacular drive continues through the mountains, valley and forests of the Fiordland National Park, with a dramatic descent into Milford Sound. A fascinating launch cruise to Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak is included. Later today return by coach to Queenstown.

Transfer to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Rotorua, where you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. Rest of the day free at leisure for optional activities. (Self-drive passengers will return their car at Queenstown airport and collect their North Island car on arrival at Rotorua airport)

A morning Rotorua sightseeing tour including the following attractions and activities. A guided tour through Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve to see roaring geysers and boiling mud pools, Paradise Valley Springs where you will see New Zealand native bird and animal wildlife plus crystal clear pools teeming with trout. The Agrodome Leisure Park famous for its entertaining sheep show. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. (Self-drive passengers have the flexibility to explore these and many other activities in and around Rotorua - a map and entrance vouchers for included sights is provided).

Leave the famous geothermal centre of Rotorua, and traccvel across the Mamaku Hills and the Waikato River to arrive in Waitomo. Tour the subterranean caves by boat, see a grotto illuminated by countless tiny glowworms suspended from the caves ceiling. During the afternoon you will travel north through the lush Waikato pasturelands and over the Bombay Hills arriving in "The City of Sails", Auckland.

Day 11 - Auckland / Bay of Islands (241 km)

A transfer to the airport is included for your departure flight. (Self-drive passengers return their car directly at the airport)

Full day at your leisure - time available for swimming with the dolphins, golfing at scenic Waitangi or exploring this historic area.

This morning you will make your way to the Paihia Wharf where you will join the world famous Cape Brett "hole in the rock" cruise. This will give you the opportunity to see the many islands which make the Bay of Islands reknown. During the afternoon you will travel back to Auckland City.

A transfer to the airport is included for your departure flight (Self-drive passengers return their rental car directly at the airport)