Highlights of New Zealand

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland, the 'City of Sails.' Explore the twin harbors and rich maritime history. Stroll the waterfront, watching ferries ply to and from surrounding islands.

Day 2: Depart bustling Auckland for the lush countryside. Stop in Matamata to explore the filming site of Lord of the Rings in Hobbiton. Continue to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders.

Day 3: Explore Rotorua's geothermal treasures at Te Puia, home to the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn about Mu0101ori culture and history on a guided walk.

Day 4: Fly to Wellington, New Zealand's capital. Explore art galleries, hydrangea gardens, and Mu0101ori culture at Te Papa museum. Venture to Zealandia to spot the elusive kiwi.

Day 5: Take a ferry from the North to the South Island through Marlborough Sounds. Arrive in Picton and drive to the wine region of Marlborough for a foggy but warm climate wine experience.

Day 6: Cycle through Blenheim, the main hub for New Zealand's food and wine culture. Explore local cafés, restaurants, and shops amid the vineyards.

Day 7: Drive to Kaikoura, a coastal town known for its mountains meeting the ocean. Board a catamaran to spot sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins in the nutrient-rich waters.

Day 8: Depart Kaikoura for Christchurch. Explore the Greta Valley and, if inclined, stop at a winery in the Waipara wine region.

Day 9: Enjoy leisure time in the revitalized city of Christchurch. Explore Hagley Park, the Avon River, and the city's museums. Conclude the day with a three-course dinner on a vintage dining tram.

Day 10: Travel on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, passing through Arthur's Pass and the Southern Alps. Collect your vehicle and head to Franz Josef Glacier.

Day 11: Hike to the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier and drive along the west coast. Make stops at Lake Matheson and Roaring Billy waterfalls before arriving in Queenstown.

Day 12: Fly to Milford Sound on a light aircraft for a cruise through towering peaks, black waters, and forest-covered cliffs. Return to Queenstown by air.

Day 13: Spend your final day at leisure in Queenstown. Choose from jetboat rides, mountain hikes, steamboat cruises, four-wheel drive adventures, or wine tasting in Otago's vineyards.