Itinerary Details
Best Of New Zealand With Fiji
Day 1 ARRIVE IN NADI, FIJI–CORAL COAST Hello, Paradise! Step off the plane and into this tropical paradise. Arrive in Nadi and transfer to your resort on the Coral Coast Please note that the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the stunning coastline and charming villages along the way. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Please note: A Local Host will be available during your time in Fiji. You will meet your Tour Director on day 4 in Auckland.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ISLANDS IN A DREAM Composed of more than 300 islands, Fiji beckons with a laid-back lifestyle and friendly Fijians. From white sandy beaches to tropical rainforests and mountain peaks, there is lot to explore on land as well in the water. Fiji is known as the Soft Coral Capital of the world with the Great Astrolabe Reef surrounding its islands and atolls. An underwater adventure should be high on your to-do list and will not disappoint.
Day 2 CORAL COAST Sand & Sees This morning, cruise up the magnificent Sigatoka River to visit an authentic Fijian village. Return to your resort where the remainder of the day is yours to explore the beautiful beaches or perhaps sample some local cuisine. (B,L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Aboard a custom-built safari jet boat, you’ll be transported deep into the heart & soul of Fiji. As you journey up the river, hear the history of the region. Children from the villages that line the river and wave as you cruise past. When you reach the village, you are given a warm welcome by the villagers and then are escorted to the village Chief’s bure (house) or to the community hall. Take part in a kava ceremony, then tour the village before sitting down to a traditional Fijian lunch. Your visit ends with traditional Fijian singing and dancing. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to join in! After heartfelt goodbyes, board your jet boat for the return trip. It’s sure to be a highlight of your time in Fiji. Bula!
Day 3 CORAL COAST Living on Island Time Today is at leisure. Make sure to check the daily activities offered at your resort. Your Local Host will have suggestions for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE You may wish to take a dip in the pool, enjoy a Fijian handicraft demonstration, spend some time in the water with kayaks or paddleboards, or simply enjoy an amazing sunset with a cool drink.
Day 4 CORAL COAST–NADI–AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand Bound! Transfer from the Coral Coast to Nadi International Airport. Fly to Auckland and join Day 1 of the New Zealand portion of your tour. Meet your Tour Director and travel companions at this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (D)
Day 5 AUCKLAND–BAY OF ISLANDS Time & Tides Start your day with a sightseeing tour of Auckland, the “City of Sails.” See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. Continue to the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beauty and history. Before arriving at your resort, visit the historic Waitangi Treaty House. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS The Waitangi Treaty House, or Busby House as it is sometimes known, was the site of some of the most important events in New Zealand’s history. It is here in 1840 that New Zealand’s founding document was signed. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, see Maori cultural performances, stroll through the lush gardens, and visit the inspiring art gallery and carving studio—all with stunning views over the Bay of Islands.
Day 6 BAY OF ISLANDS Seas the Day This morning, embark on a sightseeing cruise. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to stroll the beach, explore some of the island’s historic attractions, shop for souvenirs, or just relax at your hotel. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Take in stunning views as you glide through the islands along the Rakamangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. According to Maori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. If water dripped on them from the cave’s room, it was a good omen. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Make an island stop to give you time to stroll along the white sand beach or walk to the top of the hill for scenic views of the Bay of Islands.
Day 7 BAY OF ISLANDS–ROTORUA Abundant Adventure Today, travel through the Bay of Plenty region to Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders, adventure activities, and a thriving Maori culture (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE This evening, you may wish to join an optional outing to experience an authentic Maori village and culture performance, followed by a delicious Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). You might even be asked to join in a Haka, the traditional war dance of the Maori.
Day 8 ROTORUA The Living Earth This morning starts with a guided tour and visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Next, visit Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. This afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to relax in a natural hot spring, zipline through the forest, or board a floatplane for flightseeing of this beautiful region. This evening, join a [LF] New Zealand family for dinner in their home, a unique opportunity to interact with a local family and immerse yourself in New Zealand culture. Before the evening is over, you’ll feel like part of the family. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CONSERVATION HEROES Only about 5% of all Kiwi birds hatched in the wild survive to adulthood, making them endangered. At the National Kiwi Hatchery, you’ll see important conservation work in action.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS At Te Puia, explore New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland, featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, and silica terraces. See Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting, learn how Maori use the steam to cook their food, and visit the Maori Arts and Craft Institute to see traditional carving and weaving performed before your eyes.
Day 9 ROTORUA–MARTON–WELLINGTON Wild & Woolly Travel south today through rolling farmlands and pass massive Lake Taupo. After lunch, continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. (B,L)
LOCAL FAVORITE
COUNTING SHEEP Stop in the historic rural town of Marton, where you’ll visit a [LF] local farm and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch. During your time here, take a tour of the farm, see the animals, and learn about the importance of the sheep industry to the local economy.
Day 10 WELLINGTON New Zealand Treasures Our day begins with a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria. You’ll also spend time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Meaning “the treasure box” in Maori, Te Papa is New Zealand’s national museum. Here you can explore the great stories of this country, Maori culture, heritage, and history. Learn about WWI, see a colossal giant squid, enjoy hands-on displays, and experience New Zealand’s many landscapes.
Day 11 WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH Legendary Landmarks Fly to Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s south island and known for its English heritage. A sightseeing tour highlights some of Christchurch’s famous landmarks and spectacular gardens. This evening is at leisure. (B)
Day 12 CHRISTCHURCH–TRANZALPINE TRAIN–ARTHUR’S PASS–FRANZ JOSEF All Aboard in Christchurch Today, take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the scenic TranzAlpine. Spend the next two nights in the small town of Franz Josef, located at the base of the impressive Franz Josef Glacier. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Experience the South Island’s striking landscape aboard the TranzAlpine train. From the comfort of first-class carriages, see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmlands, followed by the spectacular gorges and rivers of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass National Park. The train features large panoramic windows, an onboard café, and in-seat audio commentary. It’s a journey of a lifetime!
Day 13 FRANZ JOSEF Ice Sculptures This morning, explore this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage area. Admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier on a locally guided walking tour. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SCENIC WONDERS The Franz Josef Glacier Viewpoint Walk takes you through some breathtaking landscapes. Learn about the glacier’s history, see what is left behind this majestic giant, and learn the legend of Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere. After a short walk to the Glacier Viewpoint, be rewarded with spectacular views.
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional scenic flightseeing or helicopter tour, relax in one of the glacier hot pools, spend time at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, or pick up a picnic lunch and just take in the gorgeous scenery. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus.
Day 14 FRANZ JOSEF–QUEENSTOWN Vineyards & Views Your journey today takes you along the coast and the Tasman Sea. Climb through rainforests and over Haast Pass to arrive in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Upon arrival, enjoy a tour and a tasting at a local [LF] winery. Tonight, you’re free to enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown’s many restaurants or cafes and sample some of the regional wines. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The Gibbston Valley of New Zealand is known for high-quality wines including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Rose, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Visit New Zealand’s largest wine cave and the region’s oldest vineyard at Gibbston Valley Winery. As one of the region’s founding wineries you’ll taste some of their premium wines, explore the wine cave, and learn about the founding of the vineyard, all within a beautiful setting.
Day 15 QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND Sights & Sound Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park for a full day excursion to the Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling, as the “eighth wonder of the world.” Late evening return to Queenstown. (B,L)
NOTE: The excursion to Milford Sound may happen on Day 13 depending on weather and road conditions today.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Cruise on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. Experience dense rainforest, towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Have your cameras ready for marine life such as playful dolphins, seals, and penguins. It will be a day to remember as you experience New Zealand’s wild side at its absolute best!
Day 16 QUEENSTOWN Timeless Tales & Traditions Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. Tour some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy, shop for souvenirs, or take a thrilling jetboat ride on the Dart River. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner.
(B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE This evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkable Mountains. Make sure to have your camera ready for fantastic photo opportunities.
Day 17 QUEENSTOWNHaere Ra (Maori for “Until Next Time”) Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Queenstown and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
Vacations by Lisa Scrimger
