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Highlights of New Zealand
Highlights of New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand
Rotorua, New Zealand
Wellington, New Zealand
Lake Tepako
Picton Harbour
The Remarkables Mountain Range
Milford Sound
$4389
Route Map
Highlights of New Zealand
11 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Queenstown, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Lake Taupo, Marton, Wellington, Picton, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Tour operator:
Tour code:
3360-2026
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Physical rating:
Medium
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
History Operator discount: -$466 Tourhub's Discount: -$112 -13%
NB: Prices correct on 25-Apr-2025 but subject to change.
This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Your affordable New Zealand tour begins in Auckland with a two-night stay to start exploring this fascinating country. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, including the Domain -- its park surrounding a dormant volcano. You’ll travel through the lush farmland of Rotorua, home to New Zealand’s Maori (indigenous Polynesian people) culture, bubbling geothermal sites, and the setting for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. You’ll learn about the region’s natural wonders, agricultural and creative traditions, and the Maori culture. Your value-minded New Zealand guided vacation continues with big sights to see throughout the north island. You’ll travel past New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo, and enjoy lunch at a local farm in Marton. Go sightseeing in the New Zealand capital of Wellington and take in its vibrant art and dining scene. See the Beehive and Parliament buildings, then take in the sweeping views of the harbor from Mount Victoria. Embark on one of the world’s most scenic ferry rides across the Marlborough Sound keeping an eye out for dolphins, penguins, or whales on your way to Christchurch. Explore the land of towering mountains, rugged coastlines, and vast plains of New Zealand’s south island as you venture on to Queenstown. Enjoy free time to explore this “adventure capital” before your breathtaking cruise on Milford Sound. Here, be awed by waterfalls, sheer cliff walls, and tropical rainforests surrounding the marine home of seals, penguins, and dolphins. This budget-minded tour of New Zealand is nothing short of spectacular. Enjoy the idyllic and fantastic scenes around each turn in your escorted vacation from Auckland to Queenstown.
Highlights
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See the Domain, Auckland's oldest park, developed around an extinct volcano.
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Visit Te Puia in Rotorua to see bubbling mud, pools of boiling water, and the famous Pohutu Geyser.
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Explore Rotorua with options like visiting Hobbiton, zipline tours, or soaking in natural hot springs at the Polynesian Spa.
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Travel past Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, and visit a local farm in Marton.
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Sightseeing in Wellington includes the Beehive and Parliament building, and panoramic views from Mount Victoria.
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Sail from Wellington to Picton through the spectacular Marlborough Sound, with chances to see dolphins, whales, and penguins.
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Visit Lake Tekapo and the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd.
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Enjoy a full-day excursion to Milford Sound, with a cruise to see waterfalls, cliff walls, rainforest, and wildlife.
Places You'll See
Waikato
Wellington, New Zealand
Milford Sound
Quest Auckland
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Atura Wellington
Ibis Christchurch
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Itinerary
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Cultural tours in New Zealand Cultural tours Tours in New Zealand Sightseeing tours Wildlife tours Boat/Cruise Excursion tours Small Group tours History toursDay 1: Arrive Auckland,New Zealand
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Quest Auckland
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in.
Day 2: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Quest Auckland
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning begins with a welcome briefing to meet fellow passengers and your Tour Director. Then, enjoy a sightseeing tour, discovering firsthand why Auckland is regarded as one of the best places in the world to live. See the Domain, the city’s oldest park, developed around an extinct volcano. Highlights also include charming Parnell Village, bustling Queens Street, and the Viaduct Harbour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Day 3: Auckland,Rotorua
Location: Auckland, Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Auckland this morning and journey through lush farmland to Rotorua, home to New Zealand’s Máori culture and geothermal wonders. Our first stop is Te Puia where a guided tour allows you to see bubbling mud, pools of boiling water, and the famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. You’ll also have a chance to witness traditional Máori carving and weaving along with a Máori cultural performance. Then, visit Agrodome to learn more about one of the country’s major industries--sheep! This evening is at leisure.
Day 4: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free to explore more of Rotorua. You may wish to take an optional excursion to visit magical Hobbiton, the set used as the Shire in the movie trilogies, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Other options include a zipline and canopy tour, helicopter and floatplane flights over the volcanic valley, or a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring at the Polynesian Spa. Indulge in an evening of singing, storytelling, and sizzling meats and veggies prepared on underground hot stones in true Máori fashion. Hang out with an optional Hangi dinner with a side of authentic cultural performances in the indigenous Polynesian tradition.
Day 5: Rotorua,Lake Taupo,Marton-Wellington
Location: Rotorua, Lake Taupo, Marton, Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, continue your journey on the North Island traveling past Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stop in the historic town of Marton to visit a local farm for lunch. During your time here, tour a tour of the farm and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy. Continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city known for its vibrant art scene, world-class restaurant culture, and active outdoor lifestyle.
Day 6: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, a sightseeing tour includes the famous Beehive and Parliament building and panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own.
Day 7: Wellington,Interislander Ferry,Picton,Christchurch
Location: Wellington, Picton, Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Ibis Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, enjoy a special treat as you sail from Wellington to Picton and enjoy the spectacular Marlborough Sound on one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Make sure to have your camera ready as dolphins are frequent traveling companions of the ferry. On occasion, you might even spot a pod of whales or some penguins swimming by. Continue to Christchurch, the largest city on the South IsIand for an overnight stay.
Day 8: Christchurch,Lake Tekapo,Queenstown
Location: Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our journey continues across New Zealand’s South Island today. This is the land of towering mountains, rugged coastlines, and sweeping plains. Stop at beautiful Lake Tekapo for a visit to the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd. Later, arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital,” for a 3-night stay. This evening you may want to take the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu below.
Day 9: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A full free day to explore on your own. It’s full steam ahead with an optional ride on the historic TSS Earnslaw Steamship to Walter Peak Farm for a delicious lunch or dinner. Browse your favorite boutique or art gallery, or take a heady helicopter ride over the Remarkables Mountains. Tonight, join your Tour Director and travel companions for a festive farewell dinner.
Day 10: Queenstown. Excursion To Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound, Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, enjoy a full-day excursion to breathtaking Milford Sound. Cruise to see cascading waterfalls, sheer cliff walls, tropical rainforest, wildlife including seals and dolphins, and fantastic scenery. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip! Return to Queenstown late this evening. NOTE:The excursion to Milford Sound may occur on Day 9, based on weather and road conditions.
Day 11: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.
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People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
Cultural tours in New Zealand Cultural tours Tours in New Zealand Sightseeing tours Wildlife tours Boat/Cruise Excursion tours Small Group tours History toursWhat's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Quest Auckland, Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua, Atura Wellington, Ibis Christchurch, and Heartland Hotel Queenstown.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are included.
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Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing tours in Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, and Queenstown.
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Cultural Experiences
Guided tour of Te Puia, traditional Maori carving and weaving, and Maori cultural performance.
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Ferry Journey
Sail from Wellington to Picton and enjoy the spectacular Marlborough Sound.
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Milford Sound Excursion
Full-day excursion to Milford Sound including a cruise to see waterfalls, cliff walls, rainforest, and wildlife.
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Small Group Discoveries
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select South Pacific dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
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What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as visiting Hobbiton, zipline and canopy tours, helicopter and floatplane flights, and Hangi dinner with cultural performances.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and other activities not mentioned in the inclusions.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from New Zealand are not included.
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Extra Nights
Extra nights in Queenstown or other locations are available for purchase but are not included in the tour package.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 Lunches, 1 DinnersSmall Group
UNESCO Sites
Te WahipounamuAccommodation
Auckland: Quest Auckland, Rotorua: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua, Wellington: Atura Wellington, Christchurch: Ibis Christchurch, Queenstown: Heartland Hotel QueenstownCheck out our Q&As
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What kind of cultural experiences can I expect in Rotorua?
In Rotorua, you will visit Te Puia where you can see traditional Māori carving and weaving, and enjoy a Māori cultural performance. You also have the option to indulge in an evening of singing, storytelling, and a traditional Hangi dinner prepared on underground hot stones.
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What activities are available during the free day in Queenstown?
During the free day in Queenstown, you can take an optional ride on the historic TSS Earnslaw Steamship to Walter Peak Farm for a delicious lunch or dinner, browse boutiques or art galleries, or take a helicopter ride over the Remarkables Mountains.
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What can I expect during the ferry journey from Wellington to Picton?
The ferry journey from Wellington to Picton offers spectacular views of the Marlborough Sound. Dolphins are frequent traveling companions of the ferry, and you might also spot a pod of whales or some penguins swimming by.
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What is included in the sightseeing tour of Wellington?
The sightseeing tour of Wellington includes visits to the famous Beehive and Parliament building, and offers panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria.
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What are some optional excursions available in Rotorua?
Optional excursions in Rotorua include visiting the Hobbiton movie set, a zipline and canopy tour, helicopter and floatplane flights over the volcanic valley, and a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring at the Polynesian Spa.
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What will I see during the Milford Sound excursion?
During the Milford Sound excursion, you will see cascading waterfalls, sheer cliff walls, tropical rainforest, wildlife including seals and dolphins, and fantastic scenery. The excursion includes a cruise to fully experience these sights.
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What is the significance of the stop at Lake Tekapo?
At Lake Tekapo, you will visit the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, which is a notable landmark in the area.
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What can I do during my leisure time in Auckland?
During your leisure time in Auckland, you can explore additional sightseeing spots, go shopping, or dine at local restaurants. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for these activities.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Reviews of this operator
We have just returned from a Cosmos…
We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday
TrustpilotExcellent in every respect
I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again
TrustpilotA wonderrful experience
WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.
TrustpilotOld South &Florida tour
Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can
TrustpilotThe tour director expertise and…
The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you
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Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026Operator discount: -$466 (USD)
Tourhub's Discount: -$112 (USD)
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Tourhub's Discount: -$112 (USD)
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Tourhub's Discount: -$112 (USD)
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Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
Saturday - Tuesday
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Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
Saturday - Tuesday
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Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
Saturday - Tuesday
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Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
Saturday - Tuesday
Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 24, 2026Operator discount: -$466 (USD)
Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
Saturday - Tuesday
Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026Operator discount: -$466 (USD)
Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)
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What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Excellent tour company with quick service and support. We loved that there is 100% refund if you had to change anything as long as your within certain time limits. A very professional company with a huge selection of different tours and several dates to choose from.
- Shelly
The staff at TourHub were very responsive to all of my questions and more! They provided me with all the information I needed to book our trip in a very short period of time. I am very impressed with this company and looking forward to our tour in 2025!
- Karen
I have never been much of a tour person, but this company offers so many options! I love the fact that they consolidate many options so that you have all the adventures in one location.
Customer service was prompt in responding to any questions I had, and offering suggestions on tour options. Looking forward to our adventure in September!
- Krista
I love that each destination and hotel accommodation is listed. Makes planning or even deciding to take the trip so much easier. Each time I emailed a question, I got a response right away. So far, I'm very impressed and looking forward to the trip that we booked for next year.
- Ellen
I just heard about tourhub. What a fantastic collection of holidays. I booked a holiday to Morocco and had a few questions, for which I received prompt and useful responses. Would highly recommend
- David
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
Cultural tours in New Zealand Cultural tours Tours in New Zealand Sightseeing tours Wildlife tours Boat/Cruise Excursion tours Small Group tours History tours