Independent Naturally New Zealand
Independent Naturally New Zealand
Independent Naturally New Zealand
13 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Queenstown, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Akaroa, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IPN1-2025
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
God’s Own Country…a big claim, but this is how New Zealanders—or “kiwis”—refer to their country. Why? Maybe it’s the spectacular scenery, the world’s first sunrise each morning, or the birthplace of bungee jumping. Whatever the reason, your independent spirit is right at home in New Zealand. On this 13-day Globus Independent tour in New Zealand, we've arranged your hotel accommodations, daily breakfast (plus two lunches), sightseeing, land transportation, and transfers from/to your hotels to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights. A one-of-a-kind special feature is the Globus Independent Local Host® who is available to ensure you get the most out of your I-time. We've arranged for you to have a Local Host in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown.Your vacation begins the moment you arrive in Auckland, as we can help after the long flight by getting you from the airport to your selected hotel. Your Local Host will greet you with a warm welcome and a set of materials to help you get settled and familiar with the city. The next day, we've arranged guided sightseeing with a local expert, including Queen Street, the city’s business district, Auckland University and the Domain, an inner-city park. From Auckland, we've arranged your transportation to Matamata, where you’ll visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. In Wellington, capital of New Zealand, you'll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour that reveals the local, insider stories and takes in the must-see sights. Then, you're off to Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island. Your Local Host will be waiting for you in Christchurch with materials to help you become acquainted with the area. We’ll take you on an excursion to Akaroa for a cruise to see native wildlife.From Christchurch, continue on to Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of the World." Here, we’ll take you on what will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip: a cruise on Milford Soun
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Auckland,New Zealand
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
ARRIVE IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND • Welcome to New Zealand! The rest of the day is at your leisure.Today's I-Time TipsWhy not browse the shops and galleries before relaxing in one of Auckland’s many superb restaurants on the water? Sip a glass of local wine or try a craft beer. The choices are endless!
Day 2: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
Meals Included: Breakfast
AUCKLAND• Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour. See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)Today's I-Time TipsYou may choose to travel to the top of Sky Tower for 360-degree views of the city or take the ferry to nearby Waiheke Island for sandy beaches, beautiful scenery, and fabulous local wines. Your Local Host is available to make recommendations and point you in the right direction.
Day 3: Auckland,Hobbiton,Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
AUCKLAND–WAITOMO–HOBBITON–ROTORUA • Travel via motorcoach south to visit Waitomo for an illuminating boat trip through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Then, tour the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. • Continue on to Rotorua. (B,L)
Day 4: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
ROTORUA • Guided sightseeing includes a visit to The National Kiwi Hatchery, Agrodome, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry and to Te Puia, where you’ll explore this geothermal wonderland. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or join in an optional excursion.(B)Today's I-Time TipsChoose to join an optional Māori (indigenous Polynesian people) cultural performance and Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). Other options include a relaxing soak in one of the therapeutic pools at the Polynesian Spa, a magical treetop walk through the Redwoods, or a helicopter tour to see this scenic region by air.
Day 5: Rotorua,Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
ROTORUA–WELLINGTON • Fly to Wellington, capital of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to start exploring this vibrant city.(B)
Day 6: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
WELLINGTON • Guided morning sightseeing tour takes you to see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings as well as scenic views from the top of Mount Victoria. Take in the beauty of the Wellington Botanical Gardens, then drive around the rugged Wellington coastline, discovering hidden bays and some of Wellington’s most popular beaches. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)Today's I-Time TipsDuring your free time, you may want to visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, where interactive displays tell the story of the country’s great heritage and natural wonders. Other choices include a ride on Wellington’s historic cable car, finding a favorite restaurant on Cuba Street, going behind-the-scenes at Weta Workshop to see how some of the world’s biggest films were made, or exploring one of Wellington’s many outstanding hiking trails.
Day 7: Wellington,Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH • Today, fly to Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island. Included in your stay is a tram pass that takes you around to the “must see” attractions. You are free to get on and off as you wish, and commentary is given by your tram driver. Please note that the pass is good for one calendar day. (B)
Day 8: Christchurch. Excursion To Akaroa
Location: Akaroa
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
CHRISTCHURCH. EXCURSION TO AKAROA• Travel to Akaroa, a former French and British settlement where you will have some time to explore the charming village with its colonial architecture, galleries, and cafés. • Afterward, take a nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour for a chance to see some of the native wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, the white-flippered blue penguin, and the Hector’s dolphin, one of the smallest and rarest in the world. Return to Christchurch in the late afternoon. This evening is at leisure.(B)
Day 9: Christchurch,Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
CHRISTCHURCH–QUEENSTOWN• Fly to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The remainder of day is at leisure. Your Local Host will have suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Why not take a stroll by the lake and enjoy the sunset this evening? (B)
Day 10: Queenstown. Excursion To Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND • Enjoy a full-day excursion to Milford Sound. First, travel by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. View the Mirror Lakes as you pass through Eglinton Valley. From the Homer Tunnel, emerge into Cleddau Valley. Join your Milford Sound cruise for an unforgettable experience. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as dolphins and penguins and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls and scenery. Return to Queenstown late this evening. (B,L)
Day 11: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN• Today is yours to explore as much or as little as you wish. Options include a scenic bike riding excursion, an exciting helicopter flight over the Remarkables Mountains, tee up for a round of golf, sip some local wines or just relax with a spa treatment. (B)
Day 12: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN • Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. (B)Today's I-Time TipsPerhaps choose a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River, visit a local winery to sample some of the region’s best, take a historic steamship across beautiful Lake Wakatipu, shop for souvenirs, or visit some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Your Local Host will be available to make shopping and dining recommendations.
Day 13: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN • Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Adina Auckland Britomart, Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Atura Wellington, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, and Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront.
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Meals
Breakfast daily and 2 lunches are included.
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Transportation
Travel via motorcoach, flights between cities, and tram passes in Wellington and Christchurch.
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Excursions
Excursions to Hobbiton movie set, Akaroa nature cruise, and Milford Sound cruise.
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Local Host
A Local Host will provide suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing in Queenstown.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from New Zealand are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other entry/exit fees are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily; 2 lunches
Accommodation
Auckland: Adina Auckland Britomart, Rotorua: Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Wellington: Atura Wellington, Christchurch: Rydges Latimer Christchurch, Queenstown: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Notes
During the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, certain activities may not be available. A different activity may be substituted or a refund offered if your included activity is not available. Intra-tour flights not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I do on the first day in Auckland?
On the first day in Auckland, the rest of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
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What is included in the visit to Hobbiton?
The visit to Hobbiton includes traveling via motorcoach south to visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
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What activities are available in Rotorua?
In Rotorua, you will have time to explore the area, and the itinerary includes a visit to the Hobbiton movie set on the way to Rotorua.
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What can I do in Wellington with the tram pass?
In Wellington, the tram pass allows you to explore the city at your leisure, with the ability to get on and off as you wish. Commentary is provided by the tram driver.
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What is included in the Christchurch tram pass?
The Christchurch tram pass includes access to the tram that takes you around to the 'must see' attractions, with the ability to get on and off as you wish. Commentary is provided by the tram driver, and the pass is valid for one calendar day.
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What can I expect during the excursion to Akaroa?
During the excursion to Akaroa, you will have time to explore the charming village with its colonial architecture, galleries, and cafés. You will also take a nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour to see native wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals, the white-flippered blue penguin, and the Hector’s dolphin.
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What activities are available in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, you have the option to explore the area at your leisure. Activities include scenic bike riding excursions, helicopter flights over the Remarkables Mountains, golfing, wine tasting, or relaxing with a spa treatment.
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What is included in the Milford Sound excursion?
The Milford Sound excursion includes traveling by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, viewing the Mirror Lakes, passing through Eglinton Valley, and emerging into Cleddau Valley from the Homer Tunnel. You will join a Milford Sound cruise to see wildlife such as dolphins and penguins, and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls and scenery.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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