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Air Canada Vacations

New Zealand Experience

Overview

Arrive in Auckland, then take  a short flight to Christchurch and start your journey in this picturesque city, where travellers experience the region's recovery and innovation post-earthquake.

The route winds through dramatic scenery, including the Southern Alps, serene lakes, and lush vineyards. Highlights include the charming town of Wanaka, the majestic Mount Cook, and the adrenaline-packed adventure hub of Queenstown.

This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local charm, capturing the essence of New Zealand's wild wonders

Format

Guided tour

Locations

  • Christchurch
  • Queenstown
  • Auckland

Inclusions

  • Flights to/from Auckland (If flight and tour package option is chosen)
  • Private transfers to and from hotel and airports 
  • 9 nights of hotel accommodation  
  • Guided day tours and transportation (where indicated)
  • Domestic flights: Auckland to Christchurch, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Breakfast daily
  • Picnic lunch  
  • Wine and cheese tasting
  • Courtesy drinks as per itinerary
  • Shared half-day city tour in Queenstown
  • Shared full-day tour of Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves
  • Shared full-day tour Milford Sound – scenic tour and cruise
  • Half day-city sights tour Auckland tour
  • Full-day shared tour to Lord of the Rings Edora tour
  • Boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu (30 min.)
  • Earn and redeem Aeroplan® points

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Auckland - Christchurch

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand. After collecting your luggage, you will have a connection on a domestic flight taking you to Christchurch.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, a private driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in where you will enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 2

Exploring Middle-Earth

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a magical journey to Mt Potts Lodge at High Country Station, the stunning location that served as the backdrop for Edoras, the capital city of the Rohan people in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Witness the transformation of serene Mount Sunday into the legendary realm of Middle-earth. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this breathtaking area, with its sparkling lakes, glistening blue rivers, and fresh mountain air.

Meal(s): Breakfast and picnic lunch

Day 3

Discovering Christchurch

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, and then you can explore Christchurch and all it has to offer.

You will have the opportunity to experience the Gondola panoramic views or walking trails, botanical gardens, shops or a winery. All yours to discover.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 4

Christchurch to Queenstown

After enjoying your breakfast at the hotel, a private transfer pick-up will escort you to the airport for your flight to Queenstown.

Upon arrival in Queenstown, a driver will meet you for your transfer to check in at your hotel and then have the rest of the day free to explore and enjoy at your leisure.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 5

Discover Queenstown

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then set out to explore the best of Queenstown’s scenery, history, and local flavours.

Begin with breathtaking panoramic views at one of Queenstown's top lookout points, capturing stunning photos of the Shotover River. Next, visit the charming township of Arrowtown, and wander the quaint streets before heading to Gibbston, renowned for the world’s first commercial bungy jump.

Explore iconic Lord of the Rings locations and savour a wine tasting experience at a local winery, where you can enjoy a shared cheeseboard while taking in spectacular views.

Conclude your day with a picturesque boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu, offering serene views as you return to the heart of Queenstown.

Meal(s): Breakfast, wine and cheese tasting

Day 6

Scenic Adventure from Te Anau to Milford Sound

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and begin the journey through the picturesque Southland farming country with a brief stop by the lakeside in Te Anau for refreshments.

Continue your trip along the famous Milford Road, entering Fiordland National Park. Along the way, marvel at majestic mountains, winding rivers, and catch sight of the playful Kea bird. Enjoy multiple photo stops, short walks, and listen to fascinating stories from your guide.

Upon reaching Milford Sound, board a small boat for a nature cruise with an expert guide to explore the fjord’s impressive waterfalls and unique wildlife, including dolphins, penguins, fur seals, and native birds.

Meal(s): Breakfast and refreshments

Day 7

Queenstown

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and a free day to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Queenstown or breathtaking Lord of the Rings filming locations and iconic Misty Mountains and Pillars of the Kings.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 8

Queenstown to Auckland

After breakfast at the hotel, a driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Auckland.

Upon your arrival at Auckland Airport, enjoy the ease of a private pickup as your driver greets you and whisks you away on a personalized introduction tour of Auckland.

Over the next four hours, explore the city's iconic sights and scenic gems, making the perfect start to your Auckland adventure. The journey begins with a visit to Mission Bay, a charming waterfront suburb, a drive along the picturesque Tamaki Drive, with stunning views of Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s most recent and largest volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf. Visit MJ Savage Memorial Park, also known as Bastion Point. This scenic spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, Waitemata Harbour, and the city skyline—a perfect opportunity for photos.

Head to Achilles Point, to capture even more fantastic views of Rangitoto Island as your backdrop. The tour continues with a visit to One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie), one of Auckland’s most significant volcanic summits and learn about the rich history of this revered landmark.

Lastly, a stop at Mount Eden Summit, a prominent volcanic cone offering spectacular vistas over the Hauraki Gulf. This vantage point is the perfect way to conclude your introduction to Auckland’s volcanic landscape and vibrant cityscape.

After a day of exploration, your tour concludes with a relaxing drive back to your Auckland central hotel for check in, leaving you well-acquainted with the beauty and history of New Zealand’s largest city.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 9

Auckland and Hobbiton

After breakfast, a driver will meet you at your hotel for a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Hop on a Hobbiton bus to the village, where your guide will share fascinating details about its creation and fun facts you might not know. Explore the movie set, including a visit inside a Hobbit Hole, seeing The Mill, and crossing the Double Arched Bridge. Enjoy a beverage at The Green Dragon Inn, before heading to the Waitomo Glowworm Cave for a guided tour. Experience the magic of the famous Waitomo Grotto with a boat ride on the underground river, marveling at the glowing worms.

After this enchanting experience, return to Auckland, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s memorable adventures.

Meal(s): Breakfast and a complimentary beverage

Day 10

Departure for Canada

After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your private driver for a transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Accomodations

Where you'll stay

The hotels listed below are presented as examples for your reference only. Hotel accommodation details will be communicated to you or your travel agent prior to departure.

Location

Hotel

Christchurch
Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar)
4
Queenstown
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile (or similar)
4
Auckland
Grand Chancellor Auckland (or similar)
4

Room details

Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 4 people (4 adults, or 2 adults and 2 children)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.

Important Information

  • Daily, based on seasonal flights from:

    • November 2024 - March 2025
    • November 2025 - March 2026
  • Not included:

    • Transfers (unless otherwise stated)
    • Optional excursions
    • Porterage fees
    • Any meals/beverages (unless otherwise stated)
    • Airport service charges, personal accident insurance
    • Gratuities
    • Visa requirements
    • Private airport transfers
    • Transportation
  • The sequence of the itinerary may be altered for reasons beyond the supplier’s control, such as accommodation availability, weather, national events, strikes, etc.