Community New Zealand Trip
Exceptional New Zealand
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- Tour Plan
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The Culture
Hospitality:
Kiwis (as New Zealanders are colloquially known) are warm, easygoing, and welcoming. Visitors often find locals eager to help, whether it’s offering directions or sharing recommendations. The concept of manaakitanga—a Māori term for hospitality and kindness—is deeply rooted in both Māori and broader New Zealand culture.
Customs and Etiquette:
New Zealand values equality, modesty, and informality. It’s common to address people by their first names. A firm handshake and eye contact are standard greetings. Respect for nature and indigenous culture is highly regarded—when visiting Māori sites (marae), dress respectfully and follow local customs. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service.
Festivals and Celebrations:
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Waitangi Day (February 6): Commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between Māori chiefs and the British Crown in 1840.
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Matariki (varies, typically June/July): The Māori New Year marked by the rising of the Pleiades star cluster, celebrated with food, storytelling, and remembrance.
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Pasifika Festival (March, Auckland): A vibrant celebration of Pacific Islander cultures, with music, dance, and traditional foods.
Traditional Food
Traditional Dishes:
New Zealand cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage, with strong Māori, British, and Pacific Island influences.
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Hāngi is a traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven, often including meat, root vegetables, and stuffing.
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Lamb is widely consumed and celebrated, often roasted or grilled.
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Fish and Chips, often enjoyed by the beach, is a classic Kiwi staple.
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Pavlova, a meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit, is New Zealand’s national dessert.
Beverages:
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Flat White coffee (originated in NZ) is a popular morning ritual.
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New Zealand wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, are globally acclaimed.
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Craft beer is thriving, with local breweries offering a wide variety.
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L&P (Lemon & Paeroa), a fizzy soft drink, is a nostalgic Kiwi favorite.
Rich History
Māori Settlement:
Polynesians arrived in the 13th century, establishing rich cultural traditions and tribal societies. The Māori people are the indigenous people of New Zealand, with their own language, mythology, and social structures.
European Arrival:
Abel Tasman (Dutch) first sighted New Zealand in 1642, and Captain James Cook (British) mapped the coastline in the late 18th century. The British colonization began in earnest in the 1800s.
Treaty of Waitangi:
Signed in 1840, this treaty is the founding document of modern New Zealand, establishing a partnership between the British Crown and Māori chiefs—though its interpretations remain complex and debated.
Modern Nation:
New Zealand gained full independence from Britain in 1947. It is now a progressive, multicultural nation, known for environmental leadership and a strong sense of national identity rooted in both Māori and Pākehā (non-Māori New Zealanders) heritage.
Natural Highlights
Fiordland National Park
A dramatic wilderness of deep fiords, waterfalls, and glacier-carved valleys. Home to the iconic Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, it’s a haven for hiking, kayaking, and scenic cruises.
Rotorua
A geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and natural hot springs. Also a cultural hub for Māori traditions, performances, and village experiences.
Queenstown
The adventure capital of New Zealand, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, skydiving, and winter sports. Surrounded by the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu, it’s also visually stunning.
Mount Cook (Aoraki)
New Zealand’s highest peak and part of the Southern Alps. Popular for alpine hiking, stargazing (in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve), and glacier exploration.
Tongariro National Park
A dual UNESCO World Heritage site featuring active volcanoes, emerald lakes, and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing—one of the best day hikes in the world.
Hobbiton & Matamata
A scenic movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, nestled among rolling green hills. It’s a whimsical destination for film lovers and families.
Bay of Islands
A subtropical paradise in the north, with over 140 islands, turquoise waters, and opportunities for sailing, dolphin watching, and learning early colonial and Māori history.
West Coast Glaciers (Franz Josef & Fox)
Among the few glaciers in the world that descend into temperate rainforest. Helicopter hikes and ice walks offer a surreal experience.
- Exceptional NewZealand
Community Plan
Day 1
Arrival in Auckland
- Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most vibrant city.
- Meet your local representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel.
- Check-in and settle in after your international journey.
- Rest and acclimate to the friendly Kiwi culture and time zone.
- Evening at leisure to explore nearby cafés or enjoy the harbor views.
- Overnight stay in Auckland.
Inclusions: Private Airport Transfer
Day 2
Waiheke Island Adventure
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
- Begin with a panoramic orientation tour of Auckland, exploring its multicultural neighborhoods and scenic waterfront.
- Board a scenic ferry to Waiheke Island, known for vineyards, olive groves, and rolling green landscapes.
- Visit two top wineries on the island and enjoy premium wine tastings while learning about local viticulture.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery with views of the ocean or vineyard-covered hills.
- Return by ferry to Auckland in the evening and relax at your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Auckland.
Inclusions: Breakfast, City Tour, Waiheke Ferry
Day 3
Journey to Rotorua
- Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before checking out and starting your journey toward Rotorua.
- En route, stop at the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, where you’ll explore the charming hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and learn behind-the-scenes stories.
- Continue to Waitomo Glowworm Caves and experience a magical underground boat ride under twinkling blue glowworms.
- Drive through the scenic Waikato region, filled with rolling hills and lush greenery.
- Arrive in Rotorua by evening and check into your hotel.
- Unwind after a full day of wonder and travel.
- Overnight stay in Rotorua.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfers, Hobbiton Tour, Waitomo Entry
Day 4
Maori Culture and Rafting
- Wake up to a delicious breakfast including hot and cold options at your Rotorua hotel.
- Visit Te Puia Geothermal Valley, home to the powerful Pohutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and a traditional Maori carving school.
- Explore Maori traditions through cultural storytelling, performance, and artisan demonstrations.
- In the afternoon, enjoy an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience on the Kaituna River, which includes the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall (7 meters).
- Return to the hotel to relax and recover amidst Rotorua’s tranquil setting.
- Overnight stay in Rotorua.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Te Puia Entry, Rafting Experience
Day 5
Journey to Wellington
- Begin your day with a relaxed morning, soaking in Rotorua’s peaceful surroundings.
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city.
- Upon arrival, transfer to your centrally located hotel and check in.
- Spend your afternoon at leisure — explore the city’s beautiful waterfront, or ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car for sweeping views.
- Optionally visit the Te Papa Museum to immerse in New Zealand’s history, Maori heritage, and art collections.
- In the evening, unwind at a local café or stroll through Cuba Street’s quirky boutiques.
- Overnight stay in Wellington.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Flight, Transfers
Day 6
Wellington to Kaikoura
- Board the scenic Interislander ferry from Wellington, crossing Cook Strait to the South Island.
- Arrive in the charming coastal town of Kaikoura, known for its rich marine life and rugged coastal beauty.
- Check in to your hotel and freshen up before your chosen activity.
- Opt for a thrilling Whale Watching Cruise or a Dolphin Encounter Tour, where you can swim with dusky dolphins in the wild.
- Enjoy the dramatic vistas of the Kaikoura ranges meeting the ocean—ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
- Spend your evening relaxing by the sea or enjoying fresh seafood at a local eatery.
- Overnight stay in Kaikoura.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Ferry Transfer
Day 7
Kaikoura to Christchurch
- After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch, New Zealand’s Garden City.
- Arrive in Christchurch, New Zealand’s iconic “Garden City,” and check in to your centrally located hotel.
- Set out on a hop-on hop-off heritage tram tour, offering a flexible way to explore the city’s best attractions at your own pace.
- Visit key stops such as the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, and the beautifully restored New Regent Street.
- Discover Christchurch’s unique mix of modern innovation, post-quake revitalization, and lush green spaces.
- Spend your evening at leisure—explore riverside restaurants, attend local events, or enjoy a peaceful stroll through Hagley Park.
- Overnight stay in Christchurch.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfer, Tram Tickets
Day 8
Scenic Journey to Franz Josef
- After breakfast, depart Christchurch for Franz Josef, beginning your journey with the world-famous TranzAlpine train.
- Enjoy one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world as you traverse the stunning landscapes of Canterbury Plains, alpine mountains, and lush beech forests.
- Pause at Arthur’s Pass before continuing by private vehicle to Franz Josef.
- Upon arrival, check into your rainforest lodge, surrounded by lush greenery and the serene beauty of the West Coast.
- Take the evening to relax and unwind in this tranquil environment, with breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
- Overnight stay in Franz Josef.
Inclusions: Breakfast, TranzAlpine Train Ticket, Transfers
Day 9
Glacier Helicopter Adventure
- After breakfast, embark on an exhilarating helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier.
- Soar over the stunning ice formations and dramatic landscapes, with the option to land on the glacier for a close-up view of its icy expanse.
- After the helicopter adventure, spend the afternoon exploring Franz Josef’s beautiful surroundings, including nearby rainforests and tranquil walks.
- Take in the pristine natural beauty of this remarkable region, where glaciers meet lush greenery.
- In the evening, relax and enjoy a peaceful retreat in your rainforest lodge.
- Overnight stay in Franz Josef.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Helicopter Tour, Transfers
Day 10
Franz Josef to Queenstown
- Wake up in the morning, have a nutritious breakfast.
- Start your day with a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you can take in panoramic views of Queenstown and the Southern Alps.
- Afterward, explore the town on a Segway tour or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Queenstown’s vibrant streets.
- Visit boutique shops, cafes, and scenic spots along the lakefront.
- Queenstown is known for its outdoor lifestyle and stunning natural beauty, so take the time to absorb the atmosphere.
- In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner with a scenic view at a local restaurant.
- As night start to fall, escort back to your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Queenstown.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfer
Day 11
Queenstown- Adventure and Scenic
- Wake up in the morning, have a nutritious breakfast.
- Start your day with a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you can take in panoramic views of Queenstown and the Southern Alps.
- Afterward, explore the town on a Segway tour or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Queenstown’s vibrant streets.
- Visit boutique shops, cafes, and scenic spots along the lakefront.
- Queenstown is known for its outdoor lifestyle and stunning natural beauty, so take the time to absorb the atmosphere.
- In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner with a scenic view at a local restaurant.
- As night start to fall, escort back to your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Queenstown.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfer, Gondola Tickets
Day 12
Milford Sound Cruise
- Wakeup to a blissful breakfast in the morning.
- Embark on a scenic drive to Fiordland National Park and take a luxury cruise through the majestic Milford Sound.
- Marvel at the towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and native birds, the beauty of Milford Sound is truly awe-inspiring, with its dramatic landscapes and tranquil waters.
- After your cruise, return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
- Take the opportunity to reflect on the stunning scenery you’ve encountered during this unforgettable experience.
- Overnight stay in Queenstown.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Cruise, Transfers
Day 13
Queenstown Adventure Day
- Fuel up for a day of adventure or relaxation in Queenstown.
- Choose your own pace and activities, with options for thrill-seekers, foodies, or those seeking relaxation.
- Try bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, jet boating through Shotover Canyon, or a scenic canyon swing.
- Tour Central Otago wineries for Pinot Noir tastings or enjoy a gourmet lunch at Amisfield Winery.
- Unwind with a spa day at Onsen Hot Pools or take a peaceful walk through Queenstown Gardens.
- Celebrate your journey with a final gourmet meal at a top Queenstown restaurant.
- Overnight stay in Queenstown.
Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 14
Departure
- On your final day in New Zealand, take some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Queenstown.
- Whether you visit a nearby gallery, take a walk along Lake Wakatipu, or simply relax in a café, savor your final moments in this beautiful town.
- Reflect on the amazing adventures you’ve had and the friendships you’ve made during your journey.
- You will be transferred to Queenstown International Airport for your flight home, marking the end of an unforgettable New Zealand adventure.
- Safe travels and End of Tour.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Private Airport Transfer
More about New Zealand
More about this tour
New Zealand is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including soaring alpine ranges, rolling green hills, pristine beaches, and active geothermal zones. The country spans two main islands—North and South—each offering unique ecosystems and biodiversity. With a temperate maritime climate, New Zealand experiences mild temperatures year-round. It is home to rich Maori heritage, world-leading environmental conservation efforts, and a strong focus on sustainable tourism. Recognized for its high quality of life, robust public healthcare, and progressive education system, New Zealand is also famous for its cinematic exports, notably as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings. With three UNESCO World Heritage sites and a culture deeply rooted in both indigenous and European traditions, it is one of the most sought-after travel destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
