Arrive in Auckland where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your luxury accommodation in the heart of Auckland's lively uptown area. Enjoy some leisure time to settle in before this evening's special Signature Experience.

Spend today on Waiheke Island, located a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland. Attracting discerning travellers, artists and wine lovers from all over the world, Waiheke is famous for its 40 kilometres of pristine white-sand beaches, hilly terrain, stunning views, bohemian arts scene and, of course, internationally awarded vineyards and wineries then return to Auckland for an evening at leisure.

Enjoy a selection from our Freedom of Choice activities before boarding your cruise. Meet your captain and crew at tonight's welcome reception and dinner.

Today, select an activity from your Freedom of Choice options.

Travel by coach to Rotorua and visit one of New Zealand's leading cultural and thermal attractions, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. Later, return to Tauranga.

Captain James Cook named Gisborne in honour of one of his crew who first sighted land in 1769. Today, we find a sunny coastal town rich in Maori heritage and culture, featuring stunning beaches with stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters.

Take in the fascinating history of Napier and the Hawke's Bay region on your selected Freedom of Choice activity today. Or you may wish to join a guided excursion to experience the world's largest mainland gannet colony up close on an exhilarating visit to Cape Kidnappers (own expense).

Today, enjoy your selected Freedom of Choice activity.

Cruise through the winding waterways, secluded bays and admire the stunning lush green scenery of the iconic Marlborough Sounds as you make your way to the seaside town of Picton.

Discover the scenic beauty, history, nature and culture of Akaroa in one complete comprehensive tour. Visit some of the most important historic sites such as Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty.

Experience fascinating natural sites like the Heritage Park that provides stunning views over Akaroa, the Wildside Project, a community-driven collaboration for predator control and the protection of native species, and the internationally renowned Hinewai Reserve. Visit Barrys Bay Cheese, who produced its first cheddar in 1895 when it was just one of nine small, family-owned dairy cooperatives dotted around Banks Peninsula and remains one of the last traditional cheese makers on the Peninsula.

Today, enjoy your selected Freedom of Choice activity in and around the beautiful South Island city of Christchurch. Home to almost 400,000 people, Christchurch is a picturesque city graced with 1,200 parks and gardens, earning it the title of New Zealand's garden city.

Enjoy an orientation drive through Dunedin that will introduce you to a well-preserved Victorian city. Soak up the grandeur of its architecture, from the classical ANZ Bank to the buildings surrounding the Octagon, an eight-sided plaza that forms the core of Dunedin's lively business district. Visit the iconic Larnach Castle, built in the late 19th century by prominent businessman and politician William Larnach and known as one of New Zealand’s finest examples of Victorian architecture. Boasting intricate detailing, the castle features a unique blend of Gothic and styles with beautiful views of the Otago Peninsula. Afterwards, explore the peninsula further and discover its picturesque bays and stunning views at every turn. The peninsula is home to diverse wildlife including albatrosses, sea lions and penguins and offers a memorable experience in the heart of the South Island. Finish the day with a visit to Penguin Place, a conservation reserve located on the peninsula dedicated to protecting the endangered yellow-eyed penguin – native to New Zealand and one of the rarest penguin species in the world.

After breakfast, drive north and stop to view the Moeraki Boulders, a unique and intriguing geological phenomenon that formed over millions of years ago on Koekohe Beach. Marvel at the highest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki/Mount Cook, a stunning natural wonder located in the Southern Alps. The surrounding national park is home to glaciers, lakes and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy dinner tonight at Alpine Restaurant, which boasts stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook through the large windows or in the outdoor seating area, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.

Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.

Travel by coach to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo and take in the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps and the stunning watercolours on the lake. Pay a visit to the tiny but charming Church of the Good Shepherd, which features in many photographs because of its beautiful backdrop and surrounds. Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight at The Montreal Bar & Restaurant, in the five-star historical boutique Hotel Montreal located in the heart of Christchurch where you will be staying for your last night of the tour.

Your tour concludes today after breakfast.