New Zealand
New Zealand itineraries
New Zealand is a large country and it can be hard to know how to divide your time between North and South Islands – which is where our expertise comes in! Most international flights arrive into Auckland (North Island) so both of our sample itineraries begin here. The South Island is more rugged and wild with vast areas inaccessible by road (yes kids, you will have to use those legs!) and with rather more sheep than humans.
Our sample itineraries encompass both islands on a self-drive basis. The 2-week trip ticks off all the main highlights, and the 3-week ‘Grand Tour’ allows for a little more time to explore some of New Zealand’s hidden delights. Both trips finish in Christchurch, which provides useful connections for your flight home.
15 Days
Visit Auckland, Hobbiton, Rotorua, Kaikoura, Tekapo, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau, Dunedin and Christchurch
From £3,750 per person
Plus international flights starting at £1,300
22 Days
Visit Auckland, Coromandel, Rotorua, Queen Charlotte Sound, Kaikoura, West Coast Glaciers, Queenstown, Doubtful Sound, Dunedin and Christchurch
From £5,625 per person
Plus international flights starting at £1,300
Seasons in New Zealand are of course opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Peak season is Christmas with the Easter holidays coming a close second. It is perfectly possibly to also travel in July and August, although it will be much chillier as it is ski season. Please note that flight times usually add 3-4 days to your overall itinerary – longer if you choose to stop over in places such as Singapore, Hong Kong or Los Angeles.
Rotorua tree walk, Highlights of New Zealand and New Zealand Grand Tour
All our New Zealand itineraries are completely bespoke. Younger families may want to have fun in the Bay of Islands, north of Auckland. Active families will want to concentrate their time in the dramatic national parks of the South Island. You may also want to spend independent time with family and friends during your holiday. We will tailor the itinerary for you and the ages of your children – just give us a call.
Franz Josef Glacier Heli-hike, South West Glaciers (photo thanks to Fraser-Clements)
New Zealand in pictures
