17 Day New Zealand Uncovered Guided Tour
Discover the sights of New Zealand in this epic 17 Day Guided Holiday and experience the contrasts of both the North and South Islands.17 Day New Zealand Uncovered Guided Tour
Enjoy a local connection in picturesque Hinuera Valley, journey through farmland to the turquoise torrent known as Huka Falls and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s Maori culture at Tamaki Maori Village. Each destination offers something unique and charming.Tour Type: | Group Tours |
From: | Auckland to Christchurch |
Departs: | Selected dates |
Duration: | 17 days |
Tour Code: | ZAAC |
Regions Visited
Click on the region name to view more information about the regionTour Inclusions
- Experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Quality accommodation
- Travel by luxury air-conditioned coach
- Airport transfers (flights to arrive prior to 4pm on day 1, flights can depart anytime on day 17)
- Full buffet breakfasts (16)
- Highlight dinners (3)
- Dinners with wine (7)
- Farewell dinner (1)
- Be my guest lunch (1)
- lunch (1)
- Be my guest afternoon tea (1)
- Immerse yourself in rich Maori Culture with a traditional Hangi
- Explore Te Papa, the museum of New Zealand
- Cruise Queen Charlotte Sound
- Savour an afternoon tea Morelea
- Cruise Milford Sound
- Discover Franz Josef Glacier
- Walk around Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
- Embark on a tour at Monteiths Brewery
- Travel on the Tranz Alpine Train
* Please note: There is an itinerary change from 1 April 2021. Please ask for details.
Frequently Asked Questions – GroupTours
What is a Group tour?
What could be better than travelling with a group of like-minded people, on a coach tour operated by one of our preferred operators, AAT Kings or Grand Pacific Tours. You will be taken care of from your arrival into New Zealand through to your departure.
Do these tours departure every day?
The departure dates are stipulated on our website. Should a date not fit into your schedule, please contact us as we would gladly make alternative arrangements for you.
I am a single traveller, can I be matched up with another single traveller in a twin room?
Yes, you can pay on a share twin basis. You will be matched with a fellow traveller of the same gender, however we are unable to guarantee compatibility.
What is included in my tour?
5 star coach transportation, experienced coach captain with full commentary, some tours include a tour manager. Accommodation, activities and meals as stipulated in the itinerary.
Can I join or leave a tour part way through?
Yes, should you wish to we can arrange this for you. However, there will be no deduction in the cost for unused services.
Does the tour include transfers on arrival and departure?
You will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to the tour hotel to meet your fellow travellers. At the completion of the tour you will be transferred to the airport in ample time for your departure flight.
Can I add accommodation onto my tour, at the beginning or the end of the tour?
Yes, this is pre or post accommodation. Just let us know and we can include that in your tour.
I am prone to motion sickness, can I guarantee a forward seat?
All tours operate a seat rotation system for the enjoyment of all travellers. All travellers must participate in seat rotation as a condition of booking. Due to this we are unable to guarantee forward seating.
How much luggage can I bring on tour?
Each traveller is entitled to travel with one suitcase. Maximum suitcase weight allowed is 23kg (50lbs). All luggage is entirely at the ‘owners risk’ whilst on tour and we strongly recommend that travel insurance be taken out by each traveller to cover accidental damage or loss. All travellers are supplied with luggage tags. This will assist the Coach Captain to identify your luggage when loading the coach throughout your tour and the delivery of luggage to your room.
What clothing should I bring on tour?
Whilst on tour, dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants. The seasons are more pronounced and the weather is more changeable. In summer, a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting during the months of May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing. You may have the option to relax and unwind in thermal hot pools so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
What can I expect weather wise?
As much as we would like to say 100% sunshine, that is beyond us so the New Zealand Met service have the following averages.
Spring: September, October, November - average daytime temperature 16 – 19 Celsius (61 – 66 Fahrenheit)
Summer: December, January, February - average daytime temperature 20 – 25 Celsius (68- 77 Fahrenheit)
Autumn/Fall: March, April, May - average daytime temperature 17-21 Celsius (62 – 70 Fahrenheit)
Winter: June, July, August - average daytime temperature 12 - 16 Celsius (53 – 61 Fahrenheit)
Do I need to tip in New Zealand?
If you wish to reward someone for a job well done it is always much appreciated.
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?
Most visitors to New Zealand do not require a visa to enter for the purpose of a holiday or vacation under the visa waiver program. If you do need a visa to visit New Zealand then you should contact the New Zealand consulate in your home country well before your departure date. We recommend you also check with your local travel agent or airline for any visa requirements to New Zealand particularly if you are passing through Australia. Information on the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) can be found here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta
What currency is used in New Zealand?
The New Zealand dollar is the only legal tender in New Zealand. View a guide between your local currency and the New Zealand dollar. Please note: Your tour and all purchases using a credit card in New Zealand will be charged in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) at the current exchange rate at the time of purchase.
Do I require travel insurance?
We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance. Factors may arise that require you to cancel or amend your holiday, so it is essential you are covered for any costs that may be incurred. We recommend purchasing your travel insurance locally at the same time as you book your tour and flights. Pacific Travel Ltd does not sell travel insurance.
Day By Day Itinerary
DAY 1: WELCOME TO AUCKLAND

On arrival in Auckland you’ll have time at leisure to explore or relax. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Reception and dinner with your Travel Director.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza Auckland
DAY 2: AUCKLAND

After a city sights tour enjoy time at leisure.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza Auckland
DAY 3: AUCKLAND / TAURANGA

You’re invited to a Be My Guest lunch at the Red Barn on the Waikato farm of Lance and Bridgette O’Sullivan, New Zealand horse racing royalty. Later, travel to Tauranga, in the Bay of Plenty.
Accommodation: Trinity Wharf Tauranga
DAY 4: TAURANGA / ROTORUA

Travel through Te Puke to visit Kiwifruit Country, then on to Rotorua for an orientation tour. This afternoon explore Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Then an evening of culture, history and a Hangi feast Highlight Dinner awaits you at the Tamaki Māori Village.
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel
DAY 5: ROTORUA

Embark on one of your Included Choice sightseeing experiences. Glide through the Waitomo Glowworm Grotto, take an ancient forest zipline adventure with Canopy Tours, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, or explore Rotorua and its lakes in an amphibious WWll-era Duck.
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel
DAY 6: ROTORUA / WELLINGTON

Journey through forests and farmland to the turquoise torrent known as Huka Falls. The road unfolds in a broad panorama of stunning Lake Taupo. Continue south and along the Kapiti Coast to the capital city, Wellington.
Accommodation: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
DAY 7: WELLINGTON / BLENHEIM

Explore Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. This afternoon cruise the Cook Strait into tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound. The village of Picton is next, then it’s on to Blenheim for a city sightseeing tour. Tonight, enjoy a 3-course Highlight Dinner celebrating local produce and the wines of the Marlborough region.
Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough
DAY 8: BLENHEIM / CHRISTCHURCH

Travel to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Travel along the Pacific coast and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.
Accommodation: Distinction Christchurch Hotel
DAY 9: CHRISTCHURCH / TWIZEL

This morning, join our Sustainable Tourism Commitment by planting a native tree in the Port Hills of Christchurch, an area recovering from wildfire. Next, visit the home of Angie and Stan Taylor at Lake Tekapo, for a Be My Guest afternoon tea and to learn about a lifetime spent farming. Later, view the little stone-hewn Church of the Good Shepherd on your way to Twizel.
Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel
DAY 10: TWIZEL / DUNEDIN

Journey along the Waitaki River, with a photo stop at the Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and Benmore Dam. Travel through to Oamaru and on to Dunedin. Choose an Included Choice sightseeing experience. Take a wildlife cruise out to Otago Peninsula, visit the famous Speight’s Brewery or ride the historic Taieri Gorge Railway.
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
DAY 11: DUNEDIN / TE ANAU

After free time, travel through lush sheepfarming land. Then the rolling, grassy hills turn back into forested, rugged mountains, as you meander your way up into Fiordland National Park to Te Anau.
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
DAY 12: TE ANAU / QUEENSTOWN

You will take the scenic journey through the rainforests, beech forests and meadows of Fiordland National Park and out to Milford Sound to cruise on this natural wonder. Afterwards, travel to Queenstown for an orientation tour.
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel
DAY 13: QUEENSTOWN

Choose an Included Choice sightseeing experience. Ride the Shotover Jet, take a gondola to Bob’s Peak and visit Kiwi Birdlife Park or a minibus tour through Skippers Canyon. This evening, cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner.
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel
DAY 14: QUEENSTOWN / FRANZ JOSEF

Visit the gold mining settlement of Arrowtown. From here you will travel to Cromwell to taste delicious stone fruit at a local orchard. It is a day of gorgeous lakes, as you travel further into Central Otago. Cross over the Haast Pass as the landscape changes from alpine scenery to the rainforest marvels of the wild West Coast. Your destination is the extraordinary Franz Josef Glacier.
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glaciert
DAY 15: FRANZ JOSEF / PUNAKAIKI

Visit Hokitika, home of the native greenstone for a factory visit and jewellery demonstration. Later, travel to Punakaiki to view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. You’ll spend the night in an eco-friendly resort right on the waterfront.
Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort
DAY 16: PUNAKAIKI / CHRISTCHURCH

Travel to Greymouth to visit the iconic Monteith’s Brewery and taste some of their innovative brews before a pub-style lunch. Later you will journey aboard the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch. This evening, join your Travel Director and new-found friends for a Farewell Dinner.
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch
DAY 17: FAREWELL FROM CHRISTCHURCH

Say farewell to your fellow travellers when your holiday concludes after breakfast.
01 October 2020 - 31 March 2022
Start Date | End Date | Single traveller | Share / Twin | Guaranteed departure | Availability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
16 February 2021 | 4 March 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
23 February 2021 | 11 March 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
2 March 2021 | 18 March 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
9 March 2021 | 25 March 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
16 March 2021 | 1 April 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
23 March 2021 | 8 April 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
30 March 2021 | 15 April 2021 | $10,745 NZD | $8,050 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
6 April 2021 | 22 April 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
13 April 2021 | 29 April 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
20 April 2021 | 6 May 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
27 April 2021 | 13 May 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
8 June 2021 | 24 June 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
29 June 2021 | 15 July 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
7 September 2021 | 23 September 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
14 September 2021 | 30 September 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
21 September 2021 | 7 October 2021 | $9,725 NZD | $7,350 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
5 October 2021 | 21 October 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
12 October 2021 | 28 October 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
19 October 2021 | 4 November 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
26 October 2021 | 11 November 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
2 November 2021 | 18 November 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
9 November 2021 | 25 November 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
16 November 2021 | 2 December 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
23 November 2021 | 9 December 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
30 November 2021 | 16 December 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
7 December 2021 | 23 December 2021 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
14 December 2021 | 30 December 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
21 December 2021 | 6 January 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
28 December 2021 | 13 January 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
4 January 2022 | 20 January 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
11 January 2022 | 27 January 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
18 January 2022 | 3 February 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
25 January 2022 | 10 February 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
1 February 2022 | 17 February 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
8 February 2022 | 24 February 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
15 February 2022 | 3 March 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
22 February 2022 | 10 March 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
1 March 2022 | 17 March 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
8 March 2022 | 24 March 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
15 March 2022 | 31 March 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
22 March 2022 | 7 April 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
29 March 2022 | 14 April 2022 | $10,800 NZD | $8,105 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |