12 Days • fr. $9,799
Fascinating cultures, thrilling activities, beautiful scenery and more await on this 12 day, New Zealand escorted vacation. Your journey will travel through Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Franz Josef Glacier and Queenstown. Delve into Maori life, sail on an America's Cup Yacht, take a private after-hours tour of Auckland Zoo and much more on this memorable adventure.
Indulge in immersive experiences and thrilling activities as you explore some of the reasons guests cherish visits to New Zealand. Receive a traditional Maori welcome and insight into their culture, customs and history. A fascinating visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery teaches about conservation of these birds. Take a guided tour on horseback in famed Mount Aspiring National Park. Admire the incredible sight of the bioluminescent creatures throughout the Spellbound Glowworm and Caves tour. Enjoy a wine tasting at Queenstown's iconic Gibbston Valley Winery. Speed through the Dart River Valley on an exciting Jet Boat tour and zipline through the treetops of a rainforest. Join AFM Seafood School’s head chef for an interactive cooking class. Taste famous Manuka honey at the Bee & Honey Center. Natural wonders include spurting geysers and bubbling mudpots at Te Puia Geothermal and Maori Cultural Park. Epic views surround you on the TranzAlpine Train Ride to Arthur’s Pass and on a Franz Josef Glacier Valley hike.
Auckland, New Zealand
Kia Ora and welcome to Auckland! Upon your arrival at Auckland Airport (AKL), you will be greeted by an Adventures by Disney representative who will take you and your luggage to your hotel. You will arrive at your hotel where you will check in with help from your Adventure Guides.
Welcome Reception at the Hotel - Gather together with your fellow Adventurers and Adventure Guides to get to know each other as you kick off your amazing New Zealand adventure together!
Welcome Dinner at the Hotel- Break bread with your family and new friends as you get to know each other over a delicious meal at the hotel featuring regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Dinner
Park Hyatt Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel.
Scintillate your senses as you join AFM Seafood School’s head chef, Paulie Hooton, on a privately guided tour of the Auckland Fish Market, the cornerstone of New Zealand seafood since 1904. Walk amongst the fishmongers and local chefs as they check out dozens of fish species throughout the market. You’ll also visit the Sanford Company Fish Market, a seafood industry leader in sustainability, and their auction room.
Seafood School Cooking Demo & Class Join Chef Paulie for an interactive, hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn how to create delicious regional dishes that feature the freshest local ingredients. Menus can be tailored to fit most personal preferences, including: vegetarian, gluten-free, etc. * Important Details Please note: For the December 23, 2021 departure only, the Seafood School Cooking Demo & Class plus the following lunch will be replaced with a Christmas dinner atop Auckland’s Sky Tower. Lunch on this day will be at a local quayside restaurant in Auckland.
Take the helm, trim the sails and steer on course as you come aboard and sail an actual America’s Cup Yacht. Cut through the waters of Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour on this thrilling, private experience. Sky Tower Observation Deck. (Alternate Activity): For Guests who prefer their adventures high in the sky, they can venture up 720 feet (220 m) to the Skydeck that sits just below the main antenna and offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. *Please note: You must be 10 years or older to participate in the sailing activity. Anyone younger will enjoy an alternate activity atop Auckland’s famous Sky Tower, and must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
Auckland Zoo Private After-Hours Tour - Auckland Zoo, Te Whare Kararehe o Tamaki Makaurau, is dedicated to building a brighter future for wildlife and wild places, with over 17 hectares of naturally inspired and award-winning habitats. Home to over 135 species—including some of the world’s rarest animals—plus the New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine, you will see how the zoo’s staff go above and beyond for animals at the zoo and in the wild.
Māori Welcome & “Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm” Guided Walk - Experience a moving and immersive performance that is deeply rooted in the culture of New Zealand. Be welcomed by Maori performers into Te Wao Nui, the native New Zealand habitat of Auckland Zoo. From the iconic kiwi to the giant wetapunga, Te Wao Nui is home to some of the rarest and most fascinating animals in the world. Your guide will introduce you to stunning and immersive habitats that showcase more than 50 of the country’s natural treasures.
Private Dinner at Auckland Zoo Experience true zoo dining at Te Puna, Auckland Zoo’s newest venue overlooking the recently opened South East Asia Track. From the expansive deck, you will view special climbing structures that allow the orangutans and siamangs to explore all around you.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Park Hyatt Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Next, board a passenger ferry at the downtown Auckland ferry terminal and cruise past Auckland’s magnificent coastlines and beautiful islands on your way to Waiheke Island.
Waiheke Island, New Zealand
EcoZip Adventures Zip Lining & Bush Walk - Take to the sky, as you soar high above the island’s vineyards stretched out below you on a thrilling, state-of-the-art flying-fox zip line. Following your flight, you’ll cool off on a privately guided bush walk beneath the canopy of the regenerating rainforest and Māori storytelling. This is a truly eco-immersive forest experience you won’t soon forget.
Private Lunch at Mudbrick Restaurant & Winery - Savor spectacular local flavors in an idyllic setting set against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty overlooking the sea.
On Your Own in Oneroa - Stroll along the gorgeous beaches or explore the shop and café-lined streets of this quaint island village. Then board the ferry for your return trip to Auckland.
Auckland Islands, New Zealand
Dinner & On Your Own in Auckland - Explore the sights of Auckland, a major city located in the north of New Zealand’s North Island. Take a stroll around Queen’s Wharf and Viaduct Basin area, an easy walk from the hotel, where you’ll find a bevy or shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants in the harbor-front district. Be sure to ask your Adventure Guides for a dinner recommendation that will satisfy your entire family—or discover a new favorite place as you explore the city.
Breakfast, Lunch
Park Hyatt Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel.
Waitomo, New Zealand
Board a coach for the ride to Waitomo, a village on New Zealand’s North Island that’s famous for its extensive underground cave system. Among these are the Glowworm Caves with its waterfalls and limestone formations. Explore this natural wonder that was under the sea some 30 million years ago, until shells and shell fragments were buried and eventually formed limestone. Gradually, with movements of the Earth’s crust, the limestone was lifted above sea-level.
Lunch at a Local Café - Enjoy a casual lunch featuring tasty and healthy ingredients that are, whenever possible, locally sourced and add true New Zealand flavor to the menu. Dine in the restaurant’s contemporary setting that offers views over Waitomo Village to the bushclad hills from a relaxing deck area.
Spellbound Glowworm & Caves Tour - Glide gently along an underground stream, as you pass below an illuminating galaxy of glowworms that increase in brilliance as your eyes adjust to the darkness. Marvel as you get an up-close look at these fascinating creatures. Then, head into Te Anna O Te Atua, the Spirit Cave, as you follow in the ancient footsteps of Ngati Kinohaku, local Māori who led Dr. Thompson deep into the caves on a quest for the bones of giant, extinct birds.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Marae Experience- Immerse yourself in Māori culture as you enter a marae (communal house or sacred place) and receive a traditional Māori welcome. You’ll also experience Māori traditions as you take part in hands-on cultural activities. The activities include a viewing of hāngī meal prep, a traditional method of cooking where fish, chicken and root vegetables are cooked in a pit dug in the ground.
Join the Māori for a private traditional hāngī feast prepared in your honor during your visit to the marae.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pullman Rotorua
Rotorua, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Next, enjoy a National Kiwi Bird Hatchery Interactive Experience - Spend a remarkable morning at New Zealand’s leading location for kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques and kiwi chick rearing since 2008. This fun and informative interactive experience takes you through the kiwi conservation process from egg incubation to getting a look at newly hatched chicks.
Farm Tour with Dog Herding & Sheep Shearing - Explore 350 acres of lush farmland on your visit to the world-renowned Agrodome. Encounter various animals, including cattle, pigs, llamas and deer. You’ll even get to stop and feed some sheep and alpacas. Plus, visit the Bee & Honey Center for a tasting of the famed Manuka honey, followed by a stop at Bowen House, where you’ll see an amazing dog herding demonstration, followed by a sheep-shearing demonstration. Next, Enjoy a lovely private lunch at the farm’s historic Bowen House.
Rotorua Canopy Tour - Get a bird’s-eye view of Rotorua’s 1,000-year-old forest canopy as you soar through the trees on a thrilling zip line ride. Learn all about forest restoration efforts as your kiwi guides take you on a remarkable tour of this beautiful region. *Interpretative Forest Walk (Alternate Activity): For Adventurers that prefer to stay on the ground, the interpretative forest walk offers an excellent opportunity to explore this fascinating forest area via a walking tour led by knowledgeable kiwi guides.
Adult Dinner on Eat Street - Dine and share tales of your adventure in the company of your fellow Adult Adventurers at a select restaurant on Rotorua’s popular restaurant row, Eat Street. Junior Adventurer Dinner Buffet & Movie Night at Hotel - Junior Adventurers gather together for an evening featuring kid-friendly food, fun and a Disney film!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pullman Rotorua
Rotorua, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel.
On Your Own Visit to the Te Puia Geothermal and Maori Cultural Park - Guests will be transferred to Te Puia and will be free to enjoy the morning visiting the features of this beautiful park, which includes geothermal features such as spurting geysers and bubbling mudpots, as well as a full-scale Maori Marae that is adorned with amazing carvings, and the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute where Guests can see stone and wood carvings and traditional Maori weavings come to life in the active workshops.
Following the visit, guests will be transferred to Rotorua’s airport. Grab lunch at the airport before boarding your flight to Christchurch International Airport (CHC).
Christchurch, New Zealand
Arrive in Christchurch - Welcome to New Zealand’s South Island. Featuring the massive Southern Alps, rolling farmland and the vast Canterbury Plains, the South Island is celebrated for its rugged natural beauty. Along with numerous glaciers, fjords, lakes and mountains, the region is also renowned for its famed vineyards and gourmet foodie destinations. Soak up the scenic surroundings of the Christchurch Botanical Gardens and Central City as your private punter poles your flat-bottomed boat along the tranquil surface of the Avon River during this iconic Christchurch activity.
While your Adventure Guides check you in to the hotel, explore the facilities at the Crowne Plaza Christchurch which combines international standards with “Kiwi flavor.” Opposite Victoria Square, the hotel is located in the heart of the city and just a few minutes’ walk from major attractions. Dinner On Your Own in Christchurch- Take a short walk to downtown Christchurch where you can discover the many sights this east coast city has to offer—including a bevy of restaurant options that are sure to please any palate. Work up an appetite, then find a new favorite restaurant on your own, or ask your Adventure Guides to recommend a local favorite.
Breakfast, Lunch
Crowne Plaza Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Then ride the TranzAlpine Train Ride to Arthur’s Pass - Embark on an epic railway adventure that is known as one of the world’s great train journeys! Traverse 139 miles (223 kilometers) of train tracks through some of the most stunning natural landscape not just in New Zealand’s South Island, but the world. As you travel from Christchurch to Greymouth, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring vistas, including the ice-fed Waimakariri River, the majestic Southern Alps and miles of native beech forest.
Greymouth, New Zealand
Lunch at Monteith’s Brewing Company - In Greymouth, follow up your amazing train expedition with a delicious meal at this local brewery that serves up an amazing array of delicious dishes with Kiwi flare.
Hokitika, New Zealand
Spend some time on your own taking in the sights of this self-described “cool little town” on the South Island’s West Coast. Connect with the friendly characters you encounter as you peruse the art galleries, stop in the quaint shops—a great place to pick up remarkable carved pounamu, or New Zealand jade carvings—and stroll along the inviting beach for a photo op with the “Hokitika” driftwood sculpture on the sand.
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Check-In at Te Waonui Forest Retreat – Franz Josef Glacier - Experience bliss as you enter this haven amid New Zealand’s pristine wilderness. Crafted to an impeccable standard, this deluxe and innovative retreat offers a healthy, environmentally safe habitat that focuses on your mind, body and soul.
Adult Dinner at The Canopy Restaurant in the Hotel - Indulge your taste buds with a 5-course tasting menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with your wellbeing in mind. Junior Adventurer Patio Party Dinner - Get together for a patio party with your fellow Junior Adventurers for an evening of fun, complete with a menu of pizza and burgers on the hotel’s back patio.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Then, hike amongst the spectacular scenery that surrounds you along the valley floor as you approach the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier. Trek amongst the lush rainforest alongside the Waiho River on the ancient path where the glacier once stood, while encountering an eco-system of flora and fauna.
Relax and recharge following your hike with a delicious meal featuring regional fare at a local restaurant. On Your Own Time in Franz Josef Explore the sights in this small South Island New Zealand town that include—for an added fee—the West Coast Wildlife Center where you can see a Rowi Kiwi, the world’s rarest kiwi! You may also want head over to the Glacier Activity Center to take a relaxing dip in the restorative hot pool, or schedule an appointment at the hotel spa (additional fee applies). *Please note: The Glacier Activity Center and the restorative hot pool are included on this Adventure.
Dinner On Your Own in Franz Josef Discover a local spot to satisfy your appetite following an adventure-filled day, or ask your Adventure Guides to recommend a restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Set off as you travel to Wanaka - Journey along “the most scenic drive in New Zealand” on your ride to Wanaka. Along the way you’ll make 3 leg stretching stops at beautiful locations that include: Lake Matheson, Thunder Creek Falls and Haast Blue Pools.
Wanaka, New Zealand
Lunch at Makarora Country Cafe - Enjoy the rural ambiance—and a tasty meal—at this local Kiwi café en route to Wanaka. Continue on enjoying On Your Own Time in Wanaka - Take time to get acquainted with this lakeside resort town that offers unparalleled views of Lake Wanaka and the snowcapped mountains in the distance, as well as lovely shops and cafes. Known as the gateway to the Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park, you’ll revel at the natural beauty of beech forests and alpine lakes that surround you.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Check-In at Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown - Embrace the idyllic surroundings of the Hotel St. Moritz, featuring a scenic view that stretches from Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables mountain range. The hotel itself embodies the spirit of this amazing location. Wind down your day with Private Dinner at the Hotel - Gather with your fellow Adventurers for a delightful private meal to recount your adventures from the fun-filled day.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy Private Dart River Horseback Riding - Saddle up for a gentle ride amid the breathtaking scenery of Dart Valley. This pristine landscape, which has been featured in many popular films, is renowned for its exceptional beauty. This gentle, guided horseback tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. * Please note: Rider weight is limited to 220 pounds. Minimum age to ride is 8, and the minimum height to ride is 39 inches tall. Children may ride with a lead rein.
Glenorchy, New Zealand
Lunch at Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat - Dine on a private catered meal in a destination that is steeped in natural splendor and was created using green design and philosophies. Camp Glenorchy meets the most rigorous sustainability standards.
Dart River Wilderness Jet Boat - Feel the exhilaration as you speed and spin across the crystal clear waters of the Te Waipounamu World Heritage area on a guided jet boat tour. Journey into world-renowned Mt. Aspiring National Park, where Māori myths and legends come to life all around you.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Dinner On Your Own in Queenstown - Arrive back in Queenstown and head to town to find a new favorite spot to dine on the local flavors of the region. Be sure to ask your Adventure Guides to recommend one of their favorite dining establishments.
Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand
Fuel up for a day full of fun and adventure with breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy some On Your Own Time in Arrowtown - Step into New Zealand history as you discover the quirky charm of Arrowtown, a gold rush town set in the beautiful, glacier-carved Arrow Basin. Whether you’re looking to take a relaxing walk on one of the many scenic trails, pan for gold in the Arrow River, shop for the perfect souvenir in the many quaint shops in town or just people watch while enjoying a cup of coffee at a local café, you’ll feel at home in the vibrant, small-town atmosphere of this close-knit community.
E-Bike Ride to Gibbston Valley Winery - Take to the car-free trails on an e-bike along the Arrow River as you pass through the region’s picturesque forests, streams and surrounding mountains. You’ll cross suspension bridges, including the iconic Kawarau Suspension Bridge, also known as Bungy Bridge. Indulge in a delicious Lunch at Gibbston Valley Winery - Enjoy a private lunch amid the picturesque surroundings of Gibbston Valley Winery.
Private Winery Tour & Tasting (Adults) - Bring out your inner oenophile on this private tour of Gibbston Valley Winery. Visit Home Block, the region’s oldest vineyard, and head into the wine cave where you’ll see winemakers plying their craft. Plus, savor the local flavors at a tasting of the winery’s premium handcrafted wines, including one or two of their celebrated pinot noirs. Junior Adventurer Olive Oil Infusion Activity or Juice Tasting - While the adults are touring and tasting, Junior Adventurers will enjoy an olive oil infusion activity or a juice tasting.
On Your Own Time in Queenstown Spend the afternoon exploring Queenstown, where you can soak up some local culture at a museum or peruse the local shops for the perfect souvenir. You can also take a lovely lakeshore stroll on the groomed pathways of Queenstown Gardens.
Board the TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 Edwardian vintage steamer that is an iconic Queenstown attraction, for a memorable voyage to Walter Peak Station, a former farm and sheep ranch famous for the production of merino wool. Delight in the stunning scenic backdrop as you enjoy a slice of rural Kiwi life—and take advantage of reserved seating.
Enjoy a private show at Walter Peak Farm featuring an entertaining display of dog herding and sheep shearing. Then a Farewell Dinner at Walter Peak - Gather for a final meal with your fellow Adventurers as you swap stories while dining on a succulent gourmet BBQ Buffet at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel St. Moritz Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy a final meal at the hotel before beginning your journey back home. Next, Transfer to Queenstown Airport (ZQN) - Bid your fellow Adventurers and newfound friends a fond poroporoaki as you depart at any time for Queenstown Airport (ZQN). Batched and private transfers are based on flight schedules, so be sure to check your departure time and plan accordingly.
Breakfast
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