Milford Sound, New Zealand

Itinerary

New Zealand: Vineyards, Mountains & Fiords 15 days

15 days

From the mighty Victoria Falls to the wonders of Botswana

Over 15 days, discover a wilder side of New Zealand, combining vineyards, geothermal landscapes and Māori culture with the mountains, fiords and waterways of the South Island. Begin around Auckland and Taupō, moving from the harbour and vineyards into Rotorua’s geothermal country before slowing beside the lake. Further south, Marlborough and Kaikōura bring a taste of New Zealand’s wine country and Pacific coast, with time in Christchurch along the way. The journey then reaches Queenstown, where the Southern Alps and Fiordland provide a dramatic change of scale. Helicopter flights, hiking, cruising and kayaking offer different ways to experience the wilderness before finishing among the mountains and rivers.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to New Zealand or speak to a specialist 0203 930 3998

Steaming geothermal pool at Wai-O-Tapu near Rotorua, New Zealand

Step by step

Journey Route

DAYS 1-5

Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

Arrive in Auckland and sail the harbour aboard an ex-America's Cup yacht before exploring Waiheke Island's vineyards with a private guide. Continue to Taupō for a nocturnal glow-worm experience and a guided day exploring Rotorua's geothermal landscapes and Māori culture, including a traditional feast, followed by a hike and private cruise on Lake Taupō.

DAYS 6-9

Canterbury / Christchurch

Historic red tram travelling through central Christchurch, New Zealand

Fly to Blenheim and explore the region's wine country on a personalised tour, visiting estates including Cloudy Bay and Te Whare Ra. Continue south to Christchurch via Kaikoura for a whale-watching excursion, then explore Christchurch's gardens, contemporary architecture and landmarks with a private guide.

DAYS 10-12

Queenstown & Glenorchy

Aerial view of Queenstown beside Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, New Zealand

Fly to Queenstown before taking a helicopter into the Southern Alps for a spectacular wilderness experience, flying over waterfalls, fiords and glaciers, spotting fur seals and landing in the mountains for a gourmet picnic. Venture deeper into the backcountry on a private heli-hiking experience.

DAYS 13-15

Milford Sound

Snow-covered mountains reflected in the Mirror Lakes near Milford Sound, New Zealand

Return to Queenstown and travel through the Gibbston wine region before flying over Milford Sound for a guided nature cruise through Fiordland National Park. Finish with a jet boat adventure and peaceful kayaking along the Dart River.

Not sure where to start?

Fill out our trip finder form and find inspiration for your perfect holiday

Trip Finder

Why choose True Travel

Every destination, expertly understood

We only recommend what we know

Truly bespoke, never off-the-shelf

Every itinerary is built around your pace and interests

One specialist, start to finish

The same person from first call to flight home

Trusted for over 13 years

B Corp certified, ATOL protected, Award-winning

Ready to plan your next adventure?

Speak to a specialist today