Wonders of Aotearoa New Zealand

Day 1 - Monday 20 April 2026

Melbourne - Auckland (in-flight meal, D)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel.

Meet your tour hostess and fellow travellers at the Melbourne Airport for your flight to Auckland, New Zealand. 

Sit back, relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment as we head towards our destination. 

Welcome to New Zealand! On arrival at the Auckland International Airport, we'll be transferred to our hotel.

Auckland is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with a busy nightlife, world-class restaurants, bush-clad mountain ranges and diverse neighbourhoods to explore.  The Waitemata Harbour is a mecca for sailors, and the popularity of sailing on the harbour has led to the affectionate term, ‘City of Sails’. 

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore independently.

This evening, get together for dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Fable Auckland (or similar)

Day 2 - Tuesday 21 April 2026

Auckland - Bay of Islands (B)

Today, we'll depart Auckland and travel north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge to visit the Parry Kauri Park to see some fine examples of Giant Kauri Trees. Take an easy stroll along one of the well-made boardwalks, through native bush, to the lookout and kauri tree grove.

We stop in Whangarei for the opportunity to purchase lunch (own cost). Whilst here, we'll visit the Hundertwasser Art Centre for a private guided tour. The Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery is an original Hundertwasser architecture project. Absolute rationalism, geometric straight lines and the uniformity of modern architecture is abandoned in favour of new values like uniqueness, romanticism, individuality, and creativity, especially creativity in harmony with nature. Hundertwasser created houses in which the creativity of nature meets human creativity. In keeping with his philosophy, the Hundertwasser Art Centre restores territories to nature with spontaneous vegetation, tree tenants and an afforested roof.

A coastline of golden beaches and rocky outcrops circles the stunningly beautiful Bay of Islands. Scattered with 150 islands, this region, with its blue-green ocean, golden beaches, and abundant wildlife, is renowned as a maritime adventure playground. Steeped in a rich and colourful history, the Bay of Islands is known as the birthplace of the nation of New Zealand. The township of Paihia is popular for its convenient location in the Bay of Islands and proximity to the Bay's historical and scenic sights. The wharf, Paihia's focal point, caters for island and adventure cruises as well as the ferry connection between Paihia and Russell.

In the afternoon, we'll take a tour of the Waitangi Treaty House and Grounds with a local guide for a unique insight into this special and spiritual place.  Learn about the treaty agreement between Māori and British representatives in 1840, which created the nation of New Zealand.  Explore the Treaty House, see the traditional wharenui (meeting house) with its intricate Māori carvings and marvel at the scale of Ngatokimatawhaorua, one of the world’s largest carved war canoes (waka taua). 

Dinner at leisure this evening.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, Paihia (or similar)

Day 3 - Wednesday 22 April 2026

Bay of Islands (B)

This morning after breakfast, we board a catamaran to cruise the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett before making a passage through the Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting). There is no better way to experience the Bay of Islands than from the water. As we cruise, we'll learn about the region’s rich culture and history with full commentary from the local skipper. Stop at Otehei Bay at Urupukapuka Island – here we can choose to swim or take a walk, or perhaps visit the café. 

At the conclusion of our cruise, we disembark at Russell where we have time for lunch (own cost) before taking in the sights of Russell with a one-hour tour combining historical knowledge and local insight. Learn about significant sites like Pompallier House and Christ Church and stand atop Flagstaff Hill for stunning Bay of Islands views. 

At the completion of our tour, we are at leisure for the remainder of the day with an open ticket to return to Paihia on the ferry when we are ready. 

Evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, Paihia (or similar)

Day 4 - Thursday 23 April 2026

Bay of Islands - Auckland (B)

This morning, we'll depart from the beautiful Bay of Islands and as we journey south, visit Kerikeri – a place of rich history complemented by lots of character and renowned for its fresh local produce. Our morning commences with a visit to a local chocolate shop to sample some of the delicious confectionery produced here. Experience some of New Zealand's earliest European history with a guided tour at historic Kemp House and the Stone Store.

Following our time in Kerikeri, we'll make a brief stop in Kawakawa to see the colourful public toilet designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, then travel south following the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to arrive in Auckland.  

On arrival, experience a brief highlights tour of Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’, exploring the lively waterfront area. Enjoy the relaxing views along Tamaki Drive, which runs east past peaceful sheltered bays to Auckland's most expensive real estate.

Dinner at leisure this evening.

Accommodation: Fable Auckland (or similar)

Day 5 - Friday 24 April 2026

Auckland - Rotorua (B)

This morning, we depart Auckland to travel south, crossing the Bombay Hills through the dairy-rich Waikato countryside to Waitomo.

Depart with a guide on a small group guided tour into the Ruakuri Cave. The spiral entranceway is a remarkable feat of modern engineering and design as well as being a major feature of the recent redevelopment, providing a dramatic introduction to the cave.  The guided tour leads down the large spiral walkway, gently deeper and deeper into the ground until the bottom is reached.  Pass through the specially constructed tunnel called The Drum Entrance and into the cave.  Journey down, marvelling at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glow-worms. Winding passageways, vast echoing caverns and deep crevices bring a different energy and character to Ruakuri Cave.  Travel along narrow corridors and across low-lit walkways suspended high above the river, sometimes glimpsing the black water rafters on the Huhunui River below. 

After time for lunch (own cost), we'll continue to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua, the Sulphur City. Rotorua has the most energetic thermal activity in the country with bubbling mud pools, gushing geysers, beautiful coloured hot springs and terrace formations created by mineral water.

On the shores of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ariki is built on the legacy of Māori culture and Ngāti Whakaue healing practices. Our Restorative Journey (Wai Whakaora) is a carefully planned therapeutic journey, designed to maximise the wellbeing benefits of the natural environment, from the heavens to the waters and the earth. In particular, it is designed to revitalize the senses through the transformative effect of hot and cold experiences. Bring your own swimsuit for this experience. Locker, towel, robe, vanity kit are included.

Later, take the short walk back to our hotel.

This evening at leisure, you may like to enjoy one of the restaurants on nearby “Eat Streat”.

Accommodation: Pullman Rotorua, Rotorua (or similar) 

Day 6 - Saturday 25 April 2026

Rotorua (B, L, D)

Today is ANZAC Day, most shops and eateries will not open until after 1pm.  The public holiday is observed on Monday, 27 April.

This morning, we'll take a guided walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley. The Waimangu Volcanic Valley walk takes us on an ecology-focused adventure of the craters of this beautiful valley.  As we walk downhill through the youngest ecosystems in the world, we will view a range of geothermal activity, native plants and bird-life.  See Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot water spring, as well as the mysterious and dramatic Inferno Crater and its beautiful blue hot lake and enjoy the serenity of New Zealand native bush.  We will see newly forming silica terraces and rare and unusual thermal plants. When we reach Lake Rotomahana, join a boat trip (45 mins) to see the Steaming Cliffs, fumaroles, lake edge geysers, unusual thermal plants as well as the site of the Pink and White Terraces that were destroyed in the Mt Tarawera eruption.  Afterwards, we'll return to the car park by courtesy shuttle.  Packed Lunch included.

Later, we'll enjoy a Redwood Treewalk Day Walk located in a Redwood Grove and consisting of 21 suspension bridges traversing between 22 Californian coastal redwoods that are 115 years old. The elevated walkways give walkers a unique view of the native undergrowth below from up to 12 metres above the ground.  At 553 metres long, the walkway allows plenty of time to appreciate the beauty of the forest, which is quite different from what we experience on the ground. 

The walk is approximately 30 minutes/maximum weight permitted of 120 kg.  

This evening, we will visit Tamaki Maori Village for Te Pā Tū.   The evening experience and feast are aligned with and change with the maramataka (Māori lunar calendar).  Feast on Māori song, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) amidst towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre. Hākari (feasting) begins with forest horotai (canapes) and culminates in a lavish 4-course fusion feast. Hāngi is featured in varied seasonal menus designed by Māori chefs served to the table, al fresco when warm, or in the wharekai (dining room) if cooler. During summer months, Tū Te Rā celebrates harvest and concepts concerning ancient Māori warfare and peace. Over winter months, Tū Te Ihi celebrates the Matariki star cluster with mystical ritual, energy, and passion. 

Return hotel transfers included – non-exclusive – other travellers may be on board.

Accommodation: Pullman Rotorua, Rotorua (or similar) 

Day 7 - Sunday 26 April 2025

Rotorua - Napier (B, D)

We depart Rotorua this morning, travelling via New Zealand’s largest pine tree forests to Taupo, visiting the Wairakei Geothermal Steam Field en route.  This was a world-first, generating electricity by tapping a natural steam field and then channelling the steam to a nearby power generation plant. Stop and see the mighty Huka Falls – Huka in Māori translates to “snow” as the water here has the appearance of snow falling as it is forced along from Lake Taupo through the falls on its journey along the Waikato River.

From Taupo, we travel across the hills to the seaside city of Napier in Hawkes Bay. For food and wine lovers, the sunny Hawkes Bay region is a favourite destination. Known for its award-winning wines, artisan food producers and local farmers’ markets, the area has a rural charm, with a mix of steep hills and plains planted with grape vines. The city of Napier is famous worldwide for its art deco architecture, with many buildings preserved in the style of the early 1930s when it was rebuilt following a devastating earthquake. 

This afternoon, we join a local guide for a guided Art Deco Walking Tour. Take an entertaining look at the unique 1930s architecture as we wander through the streets with our local guide.  En route, learn about the 1931 earthquake that destroyed the city, hear about the people who led the rebuild, and discover the unique Art Deco style of this unique city.   

This evening we dine at the Mission Estate Winery.  Established in 1851 by the French Marist religious order, Mission Estate is New Zealand’s oldest winemaker.  Housed in an elegantly restored historic seminary building with sweeping views of Napier, the award-winning Mission Estate Restaurant serves exquisite cuisine influenced by seasonal produce. 

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier (or similar)

Day 8 - Monday 27 April 2026

Napier - Wellington (B, L)

Today, we farewell Napier and Hawkes Bay and make our way south towards Wellington, stopping at Le Grá Winery, a family-run winery located just out of Masterton. Here, we partake in a wine tasting with a homemade platter lunch included. ‘Le Grá' means ‘with love’, which is what they hope you can taste in every bottle. Learn how the winery came to be, the story behind the name and logo and the story of why they chose Le Grá as their family business.   

Continue to the very pretty town of Greytown, which is known for its great food and sophisticated shopping, cute colonial cottages, historic trees, and extraordinary chocolate!  We'll enjoy a visit to Schoc Chocolates, with over 80 flavours of chocolate, they create beautiful, hand-crafted tablets. Fairly sourced beans from all over the world come together to create the most delicious, rich, and smooth chocolate in a flavour for everyone. 

We will have time to look around the village before continuing south to Wellington, home to the New Zealand Parliament. 

Dinner at leisure this evening.

Accommodation: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington (or similar)

** Today is a public holiday in New Zealand (ANZAC Day observed).

Day 9 - Tuesday 28 April 2026

Wellington - Kaikoura (B, L, D)

Today commences with a cruise across the Wellington Harbour out onto the Cook Strait and through New Zealand’s only true sound, the picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, into Picton. The bustling port of Picton is the terminal for inter-island ferries and gateway to the ‘Mainland’, the South Island’s self-proclaimed nickname.

Upon arrival, we meet our South Island coach and travel into the Marlborough Wine Country, New Zealand’s wine producing area and visit Cloudy Bay for a premier wine tasting experience and platter lunch, surrounded by the vineyard and spectacular landscape.   Enjoy a private host for the duration of the experience, a tasting of five wines and a walk through their Estate Vineyard with an explanation of the viticulture practices.

Travelling south from Blenheim, pass Seddon, and continue south with the Pacific Ocean to the east and Kaikoura Range to the right, to Kaikoura, a small fishing port. 

Dinner at the hotel this evening.

Accommodation: Sudima Kaikoura, Kaikoura (or similar) 

Day 10 - Wednesday 29 April 2026

Kaikoura - Christchurch (B)

This morning, after breakfast, we'll set off for Christchurch.

The road south follows the wild coastline, affording constantly changing seascapes and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean before turning inland and climbing the Hundalee Ranges. Then descend into the rolling farmland of North Canterbury, passing through a number of small country towns before entering the city of Christchurch.

Stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps, Canterbury is a land of plains and peaks, small coastal, alpine and rural towns and a city rebuilding itself. Christchurch has emerged revitalized following the earthquake that devastated much of the city in February 2011. The destruction of several landmark historic buildings has led to the development of new city plans, a bold public art programme and innovative use of space. 

The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore independently.  You may like to visit the Riverside Markets.

Accommodation: Distinction Christchurch (or similar) 

Day 11 - Thursday 30 April 2026

Christchurch (B, L, D)

This morning, we'll enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of New Zealand's "Garden City" with its tree-lined Avon River, the Botanical Gardens and many landscaped parks and suburbs. 

Christchurch is also renowned for its architecture and the city boasts many fine stone buildings of Gothic design including the wonderful stone buildings of the Christchurch Arts Centre, the original site of Canterbury University which now houses a number of arts and crafts stores and, the impressive Gothic-style Christ Church Cathedral.  We will also visit the “Cardboard Cathedral” and New Regent Street.

Later, we enjoy a stop at The Tannery; a boutique shopping emporium on the banks of the Heathcote River in Woolston. The old industrial precinct from the 19th century is now home to a retail complex boasting stunning architecture and art, and is home to a concentration of boutique shops; a hub of creativity and hospitality, retail, craft and entertainment.  

Visit the historic Mona Vale Homestead and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding gardens while enjoying High Tea.

Tonight, we'll enjoy dinner aboard the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant. Sit back and enjoy a delicious dinner in the luxury of an air-conditioned colonial-style tramcar while taking in some of Christchurch’s most interesting sights.

Accommodation: Distinction Christchurch (or similar) 

Day 12 - Friday 1 May 2026

Christchurch - Mt Cook - Twizel (B, L, D)

Departing Christchurch, we travel across the Canterbury Plains to the Mackenzie Country.  We'll head inland, travelling through numerous small country towns before climbing over Burkes Pass into the MacKenzie Country, named after a 19th-century sheep stealer.  The climate change is dramatic, with vast tussock-covered plains framed by the Southern Alps as a backdrop.

At Tekapo, we'll stop to see the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd with its views from the altar window across the lake to the mountains.  Visit the private home of Tekapo locals Angie and Stan Taylor for a Pavlova Experience followed by lunch.  Their home is set on the shores of Lake Tekapo and Angie will share her secrets of this truly Kiwi dessert (yes, the Kiwis are claiming this one!).    Enjoy lunch – and a taste of pavlova – as you drink in the views of this beautiful lake and spend the afternoon with Angie & Stan at their home.

Continue across the Mackenzie Basin, detouring around glacially formed Lake Pukaki into Mt Cook National Park – home to New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook.  At the heart of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine region, Aoraki/Mt Cook at 3754 metres is the highest peak in Australasia. 

You will have time for an optional helicopter flight, or you may like to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (both at extra cost). 

We continue to the small town of Twizel, and enjoy dinner this evening in the hotel restaurant. 

In June 2012, the Aoraki Mackenzie region, encompassing Mount Cook Village, was approved as one of only a few International Dark Sky Reserves (IDSR) worldwide, meaning the darkness of their night skies is almost unbeatable!  Later this evening, we'll travel to Mt Cook Retreat and join an astronomer in the Pukaki Observatory for a unique dark sky experience under the glittering stars of the southern hemisphere. Enjoy a welcome drink in the wine cellar before the experienced astronomer takes us on a tour of the night sky with a high-powered laser pointer and our pier-mounted telescope.  Learn more about the constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon and more. They will also attach a camera to the back of the telescope to show us incredible views of some of the wonders of the cosmos on a big screen. The Pukaki Observatory is perfectly located to explore one of the darkest, clearest skies in the world. This is a stellar experience and a unique opportunity to stargaze in the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. The experience includes a welcome glass of wine or tot of whisky. Please note, this experience is weather-dependent.

Return transfer is included with the Mt Cook Retreat vehicle.

Accommodation: Distinction MacKenzie Country Hotel, Twizel (or similar)

Day 13 - Saturday 2 May 2026

Twizel - Queenstown (B, L)

This morning we hit the road, travelling south. At the southern end of the Mackenzie Country, the road climbs through bleak, rugged hills to the summit of the Lindis Pass before descending into Central Otago. The road follows the mighty Clutha River into recently created Lake Dunstan.  

At Cromwell, we'll visit The Stoaker Room Bistro and Bar at Wild Earth Winery to experience a truly unique dining experience, showcasing fresh New Zealand cuisine coupled with some of Central Otago’s famous wines. Utilising retired French Oak Pinot Noir wine barrels, The Stoaker Room steams, bakes and smokes their delicious array of regional foods on the spot. Here, enjoy their signature dish “The Stoaker Banquet” – chef’s selection of five tasting dishes matched with five Wild Earth Wines. 

Tonight is free for us to explore some of Queenstown’s excellent local restaurants, cafés and bars.

Accommodation: Millennium Queenstown (or similar)

Day 14 - Sunday 3 May 2026

Milford Sound Day Excursion (B, L)

Departing from Queenstown early this morning, we’ll be picked up from our accommodation in custom-built, glass-roof Mercedes vehicles thoughtfully designed for long-distance touring and sightseeing. Experience many breathtaking scenic stops, away from the crowds, as we travel along the Milford Sound Road before arriving in the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ – Piopiotahi Milford Sound.

Upon arrival, we’ll step aboard a high-end, bespoke cruise designed exclusively for the Milford Class experience—the RealNZ Sinbad vessel. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine as we settle into this luxury vessel, featuring bespoke touches and spacious seating. As we cruise through the stunning fjord, indulge in a selection of locally sourced culinary delights, with Māori cultural influences thoughtfully woven throughout. A knowledgeable nature guide will share insightful commentary and stories about Piopiotahi Milford Sound, helping us spot local wildlife amidst the breathtaking scenery.

For the ultimate experience, you can upgrade your return journey with a scenic plane or helicopter flight (extra cost).

Alternatively, return to Queenstown via the stunning Milford Road, arriving back in Queenstown in the evening. 

Please note this trip is not in our touring coach.  Other passengers may be onboard.

Dinner at leisure this evening.

Accommodation: Millennium Queenstown (or similar)

Day 15 - Monday 4 May 2026

Queenstown (B, D)

Today is at leisure – you may like to relax or enjoy one of the optional activities.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and set on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, the natural beauty and the unique energy of the Queenstown region create the perfect backdrop for a holiday full of adventure, exploration or relaxation.  As well as the proclaimed ‘adventure capital of NZ’, the resort town of Queenstown is sophisticated and fantastically scenic. 

Its lake and mountain landscape is suited to almost any kind of adventure, but Queenstown is just as well-known as a place for indulgence, for wine and cuisine, and for gold-mining history.

This evening, get together for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant on the waterfront. 

Accommodation: Millennium Queenstown (or similar)

Day 16 - Tuesday 5 May 2026

Queenstown - Melbourne (B)

This morning, it's farewell from New Zealand!

We'll transfer to Queenstown International Airport for our departure flight.  

Sit back, relax and reminisce about great times shared with new friends.  

Thank you for joining us for our latest adventure.

We look forward to welcoming you back.