Known as Aotearoa in the native Māori language, New Zealand has two main islands. The North Island, home to the bustling city of Auckland, and the capital Wellington, offers a mix of modern urban living and scenic landscapes. The iconic geothermal areas of Rotorua, with its hot springs and geysers, and the stunning beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula are must-visit destinations. The South Island is renowned for its breathtaking, rugged landscapes and outdoor adventures. Home to the majestic Southern Alps, pristine fjords like Milford Sound, and picturesque towns like Queenstown, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. No matter the adventure, New Zealand is a land of connection, culture and warm hospitality to all who traverse its majestic countryside.
Below is just a sample of an immersive itinerary. We are happy to book hotels and excursions highlighted in the itinerary or work with you on customizing your perfect vacation for whatever length of stay you would like.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland
Upon arrival, transfer to the InterContinental Auckland. Possessing stunning views of Waitemata Harbour, relax with luxurious accommodations at the InterContinental Auckland hotel.
Day 2: Auckland
After a leisurely morning, your afternoon adventure takes you to the Arataki Centre, perched high on the ridge of the Waitakere Range with breathtaking views from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Then it is into the rainforest and onto the black sand beaches.
Day 3: Auckland
Embark on the America's Cup Sailing Experience. Participate as crew on an authentic America's Cup yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or sit back and enjoy the action and scenery as you sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour.
Day 4: Auckland/Rotorua
Depart from Auckland on the Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Experience. Go on a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton movie set for the "Lord of the Rings" film trilogy for a fascinating guided tour.
Day 5: Rotorua
Adventure abounds on the Redwoods Altitude excursion for an experience of zipline and Indiana Jones-style bridges at heights over 24 meters. Make your way around the course, moving from platform to platform, crossing themed swing bridges and zipping between the trees.
Day 6: Rotorua/Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, known for its similarity to the quaint town in England.
Day 7: Christchurch
With its ideal coastal location, Christchurch offers fantastic opportunities to explore the sea life. Travel the beautiful rural pastoral scenes of North Canterbury to Kaikoura on a day trip.
Day 8: Christchurch/Queenstown
Enjoy the scenic drive on the Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo Excursion. Explore the Canterbury Plains, Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd and and Lake Pukaki before marveling at the Tasman Glacier inside of Mt Cook National Park.
Day 9 - 10: Queenstown
Thrill-seekers delight with an exciting jet boat ride to the upper reaches on the Dart River Funyaks adventure or head on out for a Best of Queenstown tour.
AAA Travel Advisors Help Plan Your Trip
AAA membership gives you access to your own dedicated travel team, ready to help you plan and book your perfect trip. Let a AAA travel advisor customize your vacation from start to finish. Whether you're heading somewhere new or returning to a favorite spot, our team has the skill and expertise to make it seamless. Don’t just get advice — book with us for a smooth, stress-free planning experience.
Start: June 1, 2025 End: December 31, 2025 Price: Varies pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
Start: January 1, 2026 End: December 31, 2026 Price: Varies pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Sample itinerary is land only and does not include transportation in between cities or destinations unless otherwise noted.