Signature Cities & Seas Tour

Kia Ora! Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand's City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Auckland has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sky Tower or shop along bustling Queen Street. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars or eateries of Vulcan Lane. After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening's welcome reception. Stay: Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland Britomart (or similar), Auckland

Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer scenic train. Marvel at rural New Zealand's lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. From the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato – you won't want to miss a moment. Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the famous Hamilton Gardens.

Engross yourself in the garden collection as you are led by an experienced botanist. Learn about the history, context and meaning of each garden before finishing this delightful morning with a picnic on the lush lawns. Surrounded by beauty, you will learn about the history, context and meaning of each garden. In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for your Raglan Cruise and renowned kiwi dinner. Stay: Ventura Inn and Suites (or similar), Hamilton (B/L/D)

This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion. Let your guide transport you into an ancient world of ecological wonders as you explore New Zealand's very own pest-free environment. On this excursion, you will visit the home of the most endangered species in the country. This pre-human paradise is one of the world's longest pest-proof fences. Our expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand's “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves in the Waikato and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky this afternoon.

Tonight, you will have a free evening to explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets on the Waikato River. Stay: Ventura Inn and Suites (or similar), Hamilton (B)

Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you'll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park, the home of three volcanic mountains. Tongariro National Park has a diverse range of ecosystems and spectacular landscapes. In 1993, it was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and was the first property to be inscribed with the criteria describing the cultural values it holds in the Māori people.

Tonight, enjoy a special treat and dinner with your fellow travellers. Stay: Powderhorn Ohakune (or similar), Mt Ruapehu (B/D)

Today is free for you to discover one of the region's exciting excursions. Choose from the many optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into the native bush. If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune's historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers' camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road. Stay: Powderhorn Ohakune (or similar), Mt Ruapehu (B)

Your day will begin with a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune. Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, you will wave goodbye to Ohakune, New Zealand's 'Carrot Capital', as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. Don't get too comfortable though dramatic rivers, gorges and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view on the train. A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastline, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive at Wellington.

Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand's windy capital! You've arrived at Wellington Railway Station which is just a stone's throw from downtown, the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel - your evening is free to explore this culinary capital from Cuba street and beyond. Stay: Rydges Wellington (or similar), Wellington (B)

The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington! Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then heading off to explore Cuba street's cafes, bookstores and eccentric shops. Get cultured at the Te Papa Museum or Zealandia to uncover the rich stories of Aotearoa New Zealand. You won't get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From urban eco-sanctuary, cable cars, botanical gardens and more, the list goes on! Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travelers. Stay: Rydges Wellington (or similar), Wellington (B/D)

This morning you will say Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board. Around mid-day, you will be spoiled with harbour views entering the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience on a Marlborough Wine Tour! Stay: Picton Beachcomber Inn (or similar), Picton (B)

The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the local craft stores and coastal walks, or perhaps take a cruise to the Queen Charlotte Sound. Enjoy the waterfront cafes before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region. Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants. Stay: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar), Kaikoura (B)

Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today's thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the wildlife, why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.

In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train enroute to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn't cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café. Sit back and relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B)

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales, and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum, Antarctic Centre, and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, a French coastal settlement just outside the city. Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B/D)

Your journey will finish after breakfast. (B)