Sunset over the snowy peaks of Mount Cook, South Island
Sunset over the snowy peaks of Mount Cook, South Island
Scenery in Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki & Mount Cook National Park
Scenery in Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki & Mount Cook National Park
Beautiful Train Station & Lanarch Castle Architecture, Dunedin
Beautiful Train Station & Lanarch Castle Architecture, Dunedin
Milford Sound Cruise & Mitre Peak, South Island
Milford Sound Cruise & Mitre Peak, South Island
Glow Worm Tour, Stunning Landscapes & Fun Activities in Queensland, South Island
Glow Worm Tour, Stunning Landscapes & Fun Activities in Queensland, South Island
Franz Josef Glacier, Arrowtown, Haast Pass & Punakaiki Rocks
Franz Josef Glacier, Arrowtown, Haast Pass & Punakaiki Rocks
Picton Harbour & Parliament Building and Lord of the Rings Tour in Wellington, North Island
Picton Harbour & Parliament Building and Lord of the Rings Tour in Wellington, North Island
Steaming Geysers & Traditional Maori Boats in Rotorua, North Island
Steaming Geysers & Traditional Maori Boats in Rotorua, North Island
Auckland, Agrodome Show & Beautiful Bay of Islands Scenery
Auckland, Agrodome Show & Beautiful Bay of Islands Scenery

Spirit of New Zealand

20 nights from €8,659 per person Including Flights

Overview

Taking in the best of the North Island with a more comprehensive tour of the South Island, the Spirit of New Zealand is a fully escorted 21-day tour. Offering exceptional value for money, you’ll start in Christchurch and head south to Dunedin before travelling northwards up the South Island. (AA)

Highlights:

  • Enjoy an indoor guided astronomy experience in Tekapo’s world-famous Dark Sky Reserve
  • Take a private tour of Transport World in Invercargill followed by a hosted dinner
  • Experience authentic farm life with a hands-on visit to Real Country
  • Wander the historic streets of Arrowtown, rich in gold rush heritage
  • Cruise through the majestic scenery of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
  • Savour a legendary gourmet burger at Queenstown’s famous Fergburger
  • View Punakaiki’s unique Pancake Rocks and blowholes from a scenic lookout
  • Cruise across the Cook Strait, linking New Zealand’s South and North Islands
  • Join a guided walking tour of Napier’s distinctive Art Deco architecture
  • Discover Maori culture at Te Puia during the Te Po evening experience
  • Learn about the cultural meaning and craft of jade (Pounamu) carving
  • Explore New Zealand’s rugby legacy at Auckland’s interactive All Blacks Experience
  • Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided insight into the nation’s founding
  • Explore the natural beauty and cultural sites of the Bay of Islands
  • See the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd overlooking Lake Tekapo


     

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Checked baggage
  • CAR licensed & bonded
  • In resort assistance
Why Book with New Zealand Sky?
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  • Choice of airlines and the option to switch
  • A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
  • Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
  • Low deposits
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Day 1

Arrive in Christchurch

Upon arrival in Christchurch, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation. This evening, you’ll meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome reception and group dinner.

Overnight: Ibis Hotel, Christchurch

Day 2

Christchurch to Omarama

Begin your morning with a city tour of Christchurch, taking in sights such as the innovative Cardboard Cathedral and the peaceful Botanic Gardens, renowned for their diverse plant life and riverside charm. Travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to the picturesque village of Geraldine, where you can sample local delicacies at the historic Barkers store. Continue along the East Coast, passing through the scenic Waitaki Valley, where the majestic Southern Alps provide a striking backdrop to Lake Benmore. The day ends in the small country town of Omarama.

Overnight: Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3

Omarama to Invercargill

Today’s journey takes you to Clyde, a charming town rich in gold rush history, where the preserved heritage precinct is now home to cafés and boutique shops. Later, arrive in Invercargill, a city steeped in motoring history. Enjoy a guided visit to Transport World, showcasing a nostalgic and vast collection of classic and rare vehicles. Your Highlight Dinner is also included here.

Overnight: Kelvin Hotel, Invercargill
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4

Invercargill to Te Anau

Travel through Southland’s lush countryside to Templeton Flax Mill for a guided tour led by curator Nathan Templeton, who will share insights into the flax industry’s impact on the region—a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Continue to Riverton, a coastal town with inviting cafés, before arriving in Te Anau, a peaceful gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Overnight: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5

Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Excursion

Today you’ll explore the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, travelling through beech forests and past mirror-like lakes and crystal-clear rivers en route to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Take a scenic cruise through the spectacular fiord, marvelling at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and native wildlife.

Overnight: Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6

Te Anau to Queenstown

Experience a slice of rural life at Real Country, where you'll meet a local farmer and watch demonstrations on horsemanship and sheepdog work. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience also supports The Fairlight Foundation, which promotes women in agriculture. Continue to the heritage town of Arrowtown, with its tree-lined streets and charming shops, before heading to Queenstown for a two-night stay.

Overnight: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7

Queenstown at Leisure

Today is yours to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Enjoy lunch at the iconic Fergburger, known for its gourmet burgers and lively atmosphere. You might wish to take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River, sip wines on a vineyard tour, or board the historic TSS Earnslaw for a cruise to Walter Peak for a gourmet BBQ dinner (own expense).

Overnight: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8

Queenstown to Christchurch

Start the day with a stop at the Jones Family fruit stall before crossing the stunning Lindis Pass into the Mackenzie Basin. Visit Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, then journey onwards through the Canterbury Plains back to Christchurch.

Overnight: Ibis Hotel, Christchurch
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9

Christchurch to Punakaiki

Board the TranzAlpine train for a breathtaking journey through Arthur’s Pass, with views of snow-capped peaks and dramatic gorges. Visit Greymouth, then travel to Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Tonight, unwind at your eco retreat on the coast.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 

Punakaiki to Nelson

Relax today as you travel along the Heritage Highway through the spectacular Buller Gorge and Kahurangi National Park, an area rich in alpine flora and wild rivers. Your destination is sunny Nelson.

Overnight: Rutherford Hotel, Nelson
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11

Nelson at Leisure

The day is yours to explore. Perhaps visit the stunning Abel Tasman National Park for a cruise and guided walk (own expense), discovering golden beaches, clear waters and granite cliffs on one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal tracks.

Overnight: Rutherford Hotel, Nelson
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12

Nelson to Wellington

Cruise across the Cook Strait via the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound and Tory Channel, crossing from South Island to North. Arrive in the vibrant capital of Wellington and settle into your central accommodation.

Overnight: James Cook Grand Chancellor, Wellington
Meals: Breakfast


Day 13

Wellington to Napier

Take in the capital’s highlights before heading to Napier, known for its striking 1930s architecture. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the town was rebuilt in Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Classical styles that still define it today.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14

Discover Napier

Join a walking tour with a guide from the Art Deco Trust, who will bring Napier’s fascinating history to life. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps support the preservation of this unique heritage. The afternoon is yours to relax or join an optional wine tasting or wildlife tour to the Gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier
Meals: Breakfast

Day 15

Napier to Rotorua

Visit the powerful Huka Falls en route to Rotorua, famous for geothermal activity and Maori culture. Stop by a Pounamu carving workshop to learn about greenstone’s cultural significance. This evening, enjoy a traditional hangi-style dinner with cultural performances, culminating at the Pohutu Geyser.

Overnight: Sudima Lake Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 16

Rotorua at Leisure

Enjoy a free day to explore Rotorua. You might soak in the soothing waters of Wai Araki Hot Springs, or join a Hobbiton Movie Set tour for a glimpse into the world of Middle-earth. For a bird’s eye view, consider a scenic flight over the region (own expense).

Overnight: Sudima Lake Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast

Day 17

Rotorua to Auckland

Travel through the Waikato region to Auckland, known as the ‘City of Sails’. Visit the All Blacks Experience to explore New Zealand’s rugby heritage through immersive exhibits, culminating in a rousing haka performance.

Overnight: Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart, Auckland
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18

Auckland to Bay of Islands

Head north to the Bay of Islands, a stunning archipelago rich in history and natural beauty. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with a local expert who may trace their ancestry to the original signatories. See the impressive ceremonial waka and carved meeting house.

Overnight: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 19

Bay of Islands at Leisure

Enjoy a full day to explore at your own pace. You could travel to Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach, take a cruise to the Hole in the Rock, sail on a historic tall ship or discover Russell's colonial past (all optional).

Overnight: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands
Meals: Breakfast

Day 20

Bay of Islands to Auckland

Travel south, pausing in Whangarei, Northland’s only city, to explore the riverside basin, home to museums, galleries and cafés. Return to Auckland for a celebratory farewell dinner with your group.

Overnight: Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart, Auckland
Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner

Day 21

Depart Auckland

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

  • International Flights
  • Internal travel: Coach, Cruise
  • Hotel (20 nights)
  • 20 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 7 dinners included
  • Sights and excursions as listed specified
  • Tour guide throughout, local guides
  • No single supplement, if sharing room

The following excursions are available to book - approximate prices per person in New Zealand dollars:

  • Cape Reinga Via 90-mile Beach (Bay of Islands) $160
  • Discover Kerikerl (Bay of Islands) $65
  • Darryl's Dinner Cruise (Bay of Islands) $109
  • Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park (Rotorua) $45
  • Rotorua City and Lakes Duck Tour $75
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua) $119
  • Weta Weillington $68
  • Abel Tasman Seashuttle – Discoverer Day (Nelson) $86
  • Grand Traverse Scenic Flight (Mt Cook) $395
  • Speight's Brewery Tour (Dunedin) $30
  • Monarch Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin) $154
  • Taleri Gorge Railway (Dunedin) $109
  • Larnach Castle (Dunedin) $78
  • Kiwi Birdlife Park (Queenstown) $55
  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride (Queenstown) $159
  • Canyon Scenic Tour with Jet Boat (Queenstown) $195
  • TSS Earnslaw, cruise only (Queenstown) $72
  • Haast River Safari (Franz Josef Glacier) $109
  • Helicopter Flight, Mountain Scenic Spectacular Flight 40min (Franz Josef Glacier) $490

Please note these prices are a guide only and can change at any time.

Book today

Talk to our travel experts for more information and to book or tailor-make your holiday

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