Explore the Best Natural Attractions in New Zealand – Volcanoes, Forests, Glowworms, Glaciers & More
Land in Auckland, the “City of Volcanoes” – panoramic city views, harbour walk.
Visit dormant volcanic cones: Maungawhau / Mount Eden & One Tree Hill.
Optional half-day Waiheke Island trip: boutique wineries, olive groves, white-sand beaches.
Journey into Waipoua Forest to witness Tāne Mahuta – the largest living kauri tree.
Visit Kerikeri’s waterfalls and heritage sites (tentative UNESCO listing).
Optional cultural visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – birthplace of modern New Zealand.
Discover glowworms in limestone caves on a guided boat tour in Waitomo.
Arrive in Rotorua – soak in geothermal hot pools and explore bubbling mud pools at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
Hike a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – an active volcanic zone and UNESCO cultural/natural site.
Marvel at craters, lava flows, and snow-capped peaks.
Visit Huka Falls – one of NZ’s most powerful waterfalls.
Take a lakeside drive around Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake.
Domestic flight to Christchurch, followed by scenic drive to Lake Tekapo.
Nighttime stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve from Mt John Observatory.
Explore NZ’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook – glacier-fed rivers, alpine hiking trails, and stunning scenic lookouts.
Scenic journey through Mt Aspiring National Park via Haast Pass.
Visit the crystal-clear Blue Pools, then Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers – optional scenic flight or heli-hike.
Drive to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland (Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area).
Day 11: Cruise or paddle Milford Sound – waterfalls, seals, and sheer cliffs.
Day 12: Optional Doubtful Sound expedition or rainforest walks.
Fly or drive to Nelson. Explore Abel Tasman: kayak emerald waters, walk native bush trails, or sunbathe on golden beaches.
Optional flight to Stewart Island, a Dark Sky Sanctuary and native bird haven.
Alternatively, return to Auckland or Christchurch for your international flight home.
Domestic flight to Christchurch, followed by scenic drive to Lake Tekapo.
Nighttime stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve from Mt John Observatory.
Volcanoes, fjords, waterfalls, geothermal zones, & pristine beaches
Visit 3 UNESCO-listed regions & 2 International Dark Sky Reserves
Caving, kayaking, stargazing, hiking, glacier walksSubtropical forests to alpine peaks
No backtracking – domestic flights reduce travel time
From subtropical forests to alpine peaks
Book This 14-Day Scenic Highlights Tour Now and/or Request a Custom Itinerary or Upgrade to Luxury Accommodation
