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Taste of New Zealand-Auckland,Rotorua & Queenstown

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Dawn Thompson, Travel Agent in Bremerton, WA

Dawn Thompson

Bremerton, WA Travel Agent
Super Agent

Dawn Thompson

Bremerton, WA · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
(101)
100% Recommended
Dawn is organized and personable. Very knowable of the area of which she helps with travel. Love working with her. Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:California, New Zealand
PLACES VISITED:Auckland, Los Angeles, Queenstown, Rotorua
SUGGESTED DURATION:11 Days
Experience New Zealand in 8 unforgettable nights, from Auckland’s vibrant harbor to Rotorua’s geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture, finishing with thrilling alpine adventures and stunning scenery in Queenstown. •Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Auckland, returning from Queenstown •Internal Domestic flight from Rotorua to Queenstown •8 Nights Accommodation •4 Experiences including Auckland City Tour, Waitomo Caves, Te Puia Te Po Maori Evening and Milford Sound
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DAY1
Los Angeles
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Day 1 - Depart USA
This evening make your way to the Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight aboard Air New Zealand to Auckland. Enjoy a dining experience full of super fresh ingredients and flavors and an extensive range of premium New Zealand wines to complement each meal. Relax in the ergonomically designed seats that create generous personal space to ensure a comfortable journey. Take control of the on-demand entertainment and enjoy a wide range of audio and video and a collection of the very best in music.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ask about sky couch
DAY2
USA
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Day 2 -International Date Line
During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.
HIGHLIGHTS:
International Date Line.
DAY3
Auckland
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Day 3 - Arrive Auckland
On arrival at Auckland Airport, meet your driver in the Arrivals Hall for your private transfer to your Auckland accommodation for a 2-night stay. You have a full day exploring Auckland at leisure. Included in your stay is a visit to the iconic and entertaining All Blacks Experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dine at Orbit 360
DAY4
Auckland
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Day 4 - Auckland
Embark on a captivating three-hour tour through the vibrant city of Auckland. Delve into Maori heritage and local lifestyle as you journey through the central business district. Enjoy expert commentary and visit iconic spots like The Domain and Mount Victoria for panoramic views. Explore a pristine beach on the North Shore and take an optional coffee break at a local cafe. Immerse yourself in Auckland’s culture and landscapes on this enriching morning tour.
HIGHLIGHTS:
America's Cup Sailing Experience
DAY5
Rotorua
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Day 5 - Auckland - Rotorua
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Auckland through the lush Waikato countryside to the Alexander Family Sheep Farm, gateway to Hobbiton. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling hills, farmlands, and local wildlife. At Shire’s Rest, grab a bite or coffee before boarding the Hobbiton bus for a fully guided 2.5-hour tour of the iconic 12-acre movie set. Explore 44 hobbit holes, vibrant gardens, and end your visit with a drink at The Green Dragon Inn. The adventure continues as you head south through the charming town of Tirau and the picturesque Fitzgerald Glade, arriving in Rotorua where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit the Polynesian Spa
DAY6
Rotorua
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Day 6 - Rotorua
At 4pm join the Te Po Combo which commences at 4pm with a guided tour through a breathtaking geothermal valley, home to native bush, bubbling mud pools, and the powerful Pohutu Geyser. You'll also visit the Kiwi Conservation Centre and the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Enjoy a buffet dinner at Pataka Kai Restaurant, featuring locally sourced dishes, traditional meats, seafood, and desserts—all with views over a geothermal wonderland. The evening continues with a moving cultural performance at the carved meeting house, including a traditional welcome, chants, song, poi, and haka. End the night with a peaceful walk through the valley and a hot chocolate in hand—a full sensory immersion into Maori culture.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Secret Spa Hot Tubs
DAY7
Queenstown
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Day 7 - Rotorua - Queenstown
Make your own way to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Queenstown. On arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for a 4-nights stay.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take the Skyling Gondola to Bob's Peak for Star Gazing
DAY8
Queenstown
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Day 8 - Queenstown
Start your day with a friendly local guide and a small group, traveling in comfort aboard a premium 15-seat Mercedes van. From Queenstown, journey through scenic Southland and the lakeside town of Te Anau, where you'll pause for refreshments before entering Fiordland National Park. Along the iconic Milford Road, enjoy stunning alpine views, photo stops, short walks, and stories from your guide. At Milford Sound, board a small, intimate nature cruise beneath dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. With a knowledgeable guide on board, keep an eye out for dolphins, penguins, seals, and native birds as you explore the fjord’s hidden beauty. After the cruise, relax on the return drive to Queenstown. This full-day tour (12–13 hours) offers a rich, immersive experience with plenty of comfort, scenery, and local insights along the way.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Grab a Ferburger for Dinner
DAY9
Queenstown
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Day 9- Queenstown
Explore Queenstown and its surroundings. Customize your stay your way. Whether you go wine tasting or gold panning, bungy jumping or golfing, there is something for everyone in Queenstown. A 1-hour jet boat ride is included during your stay in Queenstown.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the Tss Earnslaw
DAY10
Queenstown
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Day 10 - Queenstown
Explore Queenstown and its surroundings. Customize your stay your way. Whether you go wine tasting or gold panning, bungy jumping or golfing, there is something for everyone in Queenstown. A 1-hour jet boat ride is included during your stay in Queenstown.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take a wine tour of Gibbston Valley
DAY11
USA
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Day 11 - Depart Queenstown
Make your way to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Auckland and connecting flight to Los Angeles.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ask about Premium Economy
FINAL THOUGHTS
This carefully curated itinerary blends city charm, cultural immersion, and jaw-dropping scenery for a true taste of New Zealand.