Discover the rich culture and awe-inspiring scenery of New Zealand. Considered one of the most unique destinations on earth, this island country offers travelers one-of-a-kind experiences including riding through glowworm caves, witnessing geothermal activity, and seeing some of the world’s most scenic landscapes. This exclusive tour is limited to only 39 travelers and will be an immersive experience through New Zealand!
- A first class vacation to New Zealand; five-star properties when available, wine with many dinners
- Visit the famous Auckland Sky Tower and dine at the Orbit 360 revolving restaurant
- Visit to Waiheke Island and wineries
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Visit to Hobbiton Movie Set
- National Kiwi Hatchery
- Stop at Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, a showcase of geothermal elements
- Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre
- Explore the Te Papa Museum
- Avon River Ride
- Scenic TranzAlpine rail journey
- Explore Queenstown
- Gondola ride to Bob's Peak
- Dark Sky Experience
DAYS 1-3: WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND!
DAY 4: WAIHEKE ISLAND
We depart in the morning to board the Auckland ferry as we head to Waiheke Island. Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves, and white sand beaches. While touring the island, an impressive wine tasting and winery lunch is in store for our group. B, L
DAY 5: WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES/HOBBITON MOVIE SET
This morning, journey to Waitomo where we’ll discover the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions. Here we’ll take a boat ride through the glowworm grotto and marvel at thousands of magical glowworms. Next, we’ll continue on to Matamata, home to the Hobbiton Movie set used in the films “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit”. We will take a guided tour “Beyond the Door” and have ample time to explore the ins and outs of the set. B, L
DAY 6: NATIONAL KIWI HATCHERY/TE PUIA THERMAL RESERVE
We spend today sightseeing in Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity. Kick-off with a visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery where we’ll see the conservation of kiwi chick eggs at one of the most successful hatcheries in the world. Then, witness the Agrodome Farm Show where we’ll be introduced to many animals before lunch on your own. This afternoon, transfer to the Te Puia Thermal Reserve where we’ll discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands featuring dramatic geysers and bubbling mud. We end today at the Te Puia Marae for a cultural evening of song, dance, and authentic cuisine. After dinner, our group is in for a real treat - enter the geothermal valley and enjoy hot chocolate while resting upon naturally heated rock-seats. B, D
DAY 7: NAPIER/WAIOTAPU THERMAL WONDERLAND
Following a delicious breakfast at the hotel, journey to Napier through Lake Taupo. Our first stop of the day will be Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colorful and diverse geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity. Next, we’ll continue on to Napier to enjoy a guided Art-Deco walk of the city to marvel at the beautifully preserved 1930s architecture. B
DAY 8: PUKAH MOUNT BRUCE NATIONAL WILDLIFE CENTRE
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre on our way to Wellington. The Mount Bruce reserve is a restored forest and captive breeding site home to many endangered wildlife species. B, D
DAY 9: WELLINGTON/TE PAPA MUSEUM
This morning take part in a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Drive past the Beehive and Parliament buildings, Mt Victoria, Botanical Gardens, and enjoy waterfront views. Discover New Zealand’s rich history and cultures through Te Papa’s world-leading exhibitions and treasures at the Te Papa Museum. B
DAY 10: AVON RIVER RIDE/QUAKE CITY
Relax and unwind on the scenic Avon River as we sit back and admire the spectacular views of Christchurch. Here we’ll visit Quake City, a must-see to understand the seismic events that shook Christchurch over a decade ago. B, D
DAY 11: TRANZALPINE
All aboard the TranzAlpine to experience New Zealand’s finest inland rail journey. Described as “The Great New Zealand Rail Adventure”, the TranzAlpine is rated a top six scenic train journey in the world! Ride through spectacular river gorges, the Southern Alps, and along Lake Brunner on this unforgettable ride. Later we arrive in Greymouth and enjoy lunch at the historic Speights Ale House. B, L, D
DAY 12: QUEENSTOWN
Today we travel to Queenstown, stopping at unique attractions along the way. See dramatic landscapes and significant landmarks as we drive through Haast and Wanaka. B
DAY 13: QUEENSTOWN/MILFORD SOUND
Relish in the beauty of Queenstown set against the Southern Alps and along the shore of Lake Wakatipu. Early this morning we board Milford Sound, a cruise you must experience to believe. The stunning sheer cliffs and inky black water will surround you as we travel by ship to see the iconic Mitre Peak. Disembark from the ship and transfer back to Queenstown on a scenic flight. B, L
DAY 14: BOB’S PEAK
Spend the morning exploring Queenstown on your own. This evening we’ll transfer to the Skyline complex where we will take a gondola ride to Bob’s Peak, famous for its breathtaking views from 480 meters above Queenstown. B, D
DAY 15: JOURNEY TO LAKE TEKAPO
Depart on our journey to Lake Tekapo. On the way stop in Twizel, Mackenzie Region’s largest town with many excellent restaurants and shops for you to enjoy. Here see mountain views in all directions. B, D
DAY 16: SIR EDMUND HILLARY ALPINE CENTRE/DARK SKY EXPERIENCE
This morning we’re off to Mt. Cook to discover the fascinating history of this region at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, a tribute to one of the world’s greatest explorers. This afternoon we embark on a journey 13.8 billion years in the making. The Dark Sky Experience is one of the most awe-inspiring Dark Sky Reserves in the world. B, D
DAY 17: CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD/CHRISTCHURCH
As we head back to Christchurch, we’ll see the Church of the Good Shepherd situated on the shores of Lake Pakapõ that was built as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. Cap off the
day with free time before our farewell dinner. B, D
DAY 18: RETURN HOME
Travel home with fond memories of your adventures in New Zealand, or continue traveling to on our optional post tour of Sydney, Australia. B
OPTIONAL POST TOUR TO SYDNEY
DAY 18: WELCOME TO SYDNEY!
Arrive in Australia and meet your guide before enjoying dinner at your hotel. D
DAY 19: SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE/BONDI BEACH
This morning depart on a guided tour of downtown Sydney where we will explore the historic Rocks area and take in the views of Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Parliament House and the Art Gallery. Next, see inside the world’s most recognizable sails, the Sydney Opera House! This incredible display of architecture and engineering is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the world-famous Bondi Beach and enjoy the spectacular scenery. B, L
DAY 20: THE ROCKS/MANLY
Take a leisurely walk around The Rocks and uncover the authentic history of the Aboriginal people’s heritage within Sydney Harbour. Next, continue by ferry to the vibrant coastal suburb of Sydney, Manly. Manly offers the best of both worlds, cosmopolitan buzz and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the beach-front town on your own before heading to tonight’s hotel. B
DAY 21: EXPLORE SYDNEY
After exploring Sydney on your own, enjoy dinner at Infinity, Sydney Tower’s revolving restaurant. B, D
DAY 22: SAY FAREWELL
Say farewell to the friends you made along the way and return home with amazing new memories. B
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Nights 3-4: The Grand By SkyCity, Auckland
Nights 5-6: Pullman, Rotorua
Night 7: Swiss-Belboutique, Napier
Nights 8-9: Sofitel, Wellington
Night 10: Crowne Plaza, Christchurch
Night 11: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef
Nights 12-14: Millennium Hotel, Queenstown
Nights 15-16: Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo
Night 17: Crowne Plaza, Christchurch
SYDNEY POST-TOUR:
Nights 18-21: Sofitel Wentworth, Sydney
Dates:
- Departure Date: February 3, 2025 sold out
- Return Date: February 20, 2025 sold out
Pricing:
- Double: $11,197
- Single: $13,695
Post Tour Sydney Add, per person:
- Double: $1,900
- Single: $2,700
*Per person rates
*Price includes roundtrip airfare from STL or MCI (call for other gateway cities)
*Passport required
Identification
Valid passport required to travel.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
February – highs in the mid 70’s°, lows in the mid 50’s°
Currency
New Zealand & Australian Dollar
Time Zone
GMT+12 (16 hours ahead of New York)
Other General Information
We will send 3 key communications for your tour; “Get Ready” is your email confirmation and initial tour information sent upon registration, “Get Set” email will be sent about two months before departure, “Go” trip documentation mailing is sent via USPS 3-4 weeks before departure and will include your daily itinerary, luggage tags and final departure information.
Travel Protection is optional and highly recommended and can be purchased until the day before departure. We offer Travel Guard from AIG, which costs 8.5% of your tour, information about which will be sent with your Get Ready email.
Unless otherwise noted, your Sunrise Tour includes: Professional Sunrise Tour Director, meals as indicated, local step on guides including gratuity (international tour guide gratuity inclusion vary by tour), deluxe motorcoach transportation w/rest room, admission to activities and events as indicated, airfare from designated airports, transportation to/from designated airports from our convenient local pickup points*, luggage handling at hotels when available
We believe tipping is a personal and discretionary interaction between our guests and our staff. A typical gratuity for your Sunrise Tour Director and motorcoach driver may be $5-$7per person, per day on tour. Sunrise Shuttle drivers appreciate gratuities (suggest $5 per person) for excellent service as well. Our staff will not solicit gratuities or pass out envelopes.
We are happy to offer refreshments on most motorcoach travel days on tour. We recommend you bring a refillable water bottle to maintain healthy hydration.
If less than 4 people request a pickup point, we may ask that you choose another pickup point from which to join your Sunrise Tour.
If you would like to join a tour from a city not listed as a departure point, we would love to have you along! Please discuss arrangements with our friendly reservation team. From a departure city not listed, typical airfare will be +$100 higher than our published fare for domestic tours, and +$200 for international tours.
If you have a TSA precheck or Airline Rewards numbers, you MUST give those numbers to our reservations team at least 60 days before departure, otherwise they may not be applied.
Preferred seating may not be available on group air. In some cases, seats are not assigned until the airport. Your tour fare includes an economy seat on the flight; it does not include seat selection. Seat upgrades may be available at an additional cost.
To help make our tours the most comfortable in the business, we limit Sunrise Tours motorcoaches to 80% capacity, or 44 passengers on a coach built for 55. We reserve the right to amend this practice.
Your Tour Director will rotate seats on the motorcoach each day of your tour. A single fare does not guarantee two seats on the coach; you may be seated next to another friendly Sunrise Tours guest.
Terms and Conditions
Please refer to our policies HERE for more information on our terms and conditions.
