New Zealand Cities and Sea

Explore Auckland through multicultural neighbourhoods, harbourside walks, and iconic city landmarks.
Glide by scenic train through Waikato to Hamilton, with tea estates, glow worm caves, and Raglan’s coastal charm.
Discover Tongariro National Park, featuring volcanic landscapes, Māori heritage, gardens, and alpine vistas.
Experience Marlborough, with Cook Strait cruising, wine tasting, aviation history, and coastal food traditions.
Enjoy Kaikoura and Christchurch, with dolphin encounters, coastal rail journeys, and creative city exploration.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

Trip Features

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Auckland

DAY

Auckland to Hamilton

DAY

Exploring Hamilton

DAY

Hamilton to Tongariro National Park

DAY

Discovering Tongariro National Park

DAY

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

DAY

Touring Wellington

DAY

Wellington to Marlborough

DAY

Discover Marlborough Sounds

DAY

Marlborough to Kaikoura

DAY

Kaikoura to Christchurch

DAY

Exploring Christchurch

DAY

Depart from Christchurch

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Auckland

Kia Ora! Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand's City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture. After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Auckland has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sky Tower or shop along bustling Queen Street. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars or eateries of Vulcan Lane. Your tour officially begins this evening, as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome reception.

Multi Day Tour

Auckland

Meal

Dinner

DAY

Auckland to Hamilton

The Northern Explorer Scenic Train Marvel at rural New Zealand's lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. From the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato - you won't want to miss a moment. Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the enchanting Zealong Tea Estate, where an immersive 1.5-hour tour and tea ceremony await, followed by the renowned Signature High Tea experience. Discover the art of tea-making amidst breathtaking surroundings. In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan - a seaside surfer town. It's here that you'll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour and classic kiwi Fish n Chips for dinner

Multi Day Tour

Auckland to Hamilton

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

DAY

Exploring Hamilton

Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into Maori herbal medicinal practices, the unique Rongoa Rakau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand's "Kiwiana Capital", Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glow worm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation. Tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River.

Multi Day Tour

Hamilton

Meal

Breakfast

DAY

Hamilton to Tongariro National Park

Explore Tongariro National Park Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you'll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park, the home of three volcanic mountains. Tongariro National Park has a diverse range of ecosystems and spectacular landscapes. In 1993, it was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and was the first property to be inscribed with the criteria describing the cultural values it holds for Maori. Enjoy a mini excursion up to Turoa ski field. Here, you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune. Tonight, enjoy a special dinner with your fellow travellers.

Multi Day Tour

Tongariro National Park

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY

Discovering Tongariro National Park

Explore Tongariro National Park Enjoy the morning with breakfast at your accommodation, then set off on a journey of discovery to Taumarunui. Enjoy the ambiance as you spend a few hours in Taumarunui, exploring a local garden before your lunchtime feast at Lauren's Lavender Farm. Indulge in a hot meat dish accompanied by an array of refreshing salads, followed by a walk amidst the fragrant lavender fields and a visit to the lavender shop. After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.

Multi Day Tour

Tongariro National Park

Meal

Breakfast

DAY

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

The Northern Explorer Scenic Train Your day begins with an elevated experience up the northern face of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Drink in the views of Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Tongariro, and beyond across the central North Island. Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, waving goodbye to Tongariro National Park, as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. Don't get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view from the train. A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed cafe? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive into Wellington. Welcome to Wellington - New Zealand's windy capital! You've arrived at Wellington Railway Station which is just a stone's throw from downtown, the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel - your evening is free to explore this culinary capital from Queen's Wharf to Cuba street and beyond.

Multi Day Tour

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY

Touring Wellington

Explore Wellington The perfect day does exist - and it includes exploring Wellington! Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street's cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest. You won't get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more... the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience. Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.

Multi Day Tour

Wellington

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY

Wellington to Marlborough

Crossing Cook Strait This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea! On your journey across Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, whales. Don't spend all your time inside - as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Once in Marlborough, indulge in a gourmet experience as you journey through the renowned Marlborough region, savoring a three-course lunch menu at Allan Scott Wines Bistro, accompanied by a glass of wine with your main meal. After lunch, the adventure continues with visits to two more wineries for included tastings, and a stop at the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory, promising a sweet conclusion to your day.

Multi Day Tour

Wellington to Marlborough

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

DAY

Discover Marlborough Sounds

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Omaka Aviation Museum tour, were you'll see rare WW1 and WW2 aircraft through imaginative displays, offering a world-class experience that brings aviation history and its heroes to life. After a 45-minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, begin your journey with a warm welcome and morning tea, followed by a guided tour through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating paua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested paua - an unforgettable flavour of the ocean.

Multi Day Tour

Marlborough Sounds

Meal

Breakfast

DAY

Marlborough to Kaikoura

The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Paua Pearl Farm Tour, where innovation meets tradition along New Zealand's scenic coastline. After a 45 minute cruise to the outer Marlborough Sounds, begin your journey with a warm welcome and morning tea, followed by a guided tour through the hatchery and growing tanks where these iridescent treasures are nurtured. Learn about the fascinating process of cultivating paua pearls, then indulge in a tasting of fresh, locally harvested paua-an unforgettable flavour of the ocean. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikoura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.

Multi Day Tour

Marlborough to Kaikoura

Meal

Breakfast

DAY

Kaikoura to Christchurch

Explore Kaikoura Set out on an unforgettable Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura, where the ocean comes alive with the playful energy of wild dusky dolphins. Cruise along the stunning coastline as knowledgeable guides share insights into these intelligent marine mammals. Watch as pods leap, spin, and interact in their natural habitat or elevate your adventure with the option to upgrade and swim alongside them for a truly immersive and exhilarating experience. After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. Gather again for the next leg of your journey. Late afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific for the Scenic Plus experience, treating yourself to unparalleled vistas as you glide along the coastline. Revel in dinner and drinks, included with your Scenic Plus package, as you unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day.

Multi Day Tour

Kaikoura to Christchurch

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY

Exploring Christchurch

Christchurch, the gateway to South Island exploration, beautifully blends cutting-edge innovation with 19th-century Anglican Gothic Revival architecture. While the city is often remembered for the 2011 earthquake, today it stands as a vibrant, multicultural hub with a strong sense of renewal and creativity. Your day begins with the convenience of the Hop-On Hop-Off Tram, a charming way to navigate the central city and discover its highlights at your own pace. Enjoy a custom walking tour with your Great Journeys New Zealand guide, who will bring the city’s stories, landmarks, and hidden gems to life. Explore must-see attractions like the Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, the Gondola, and the tranquil Botanical Gardens. Along the way, uncover a variety of boutique cafés tucked into laneways and side streets. This evening, unwind and reflect on your discoveries over a beautifully curated dinner at Earl, one of Christchurch’s most acclaimed dining spots, known for its relaxed elegance and refined seasonal cuisine.

Multi Day Tour

Explore Christchurch

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY

Depart from Christchurch

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. Not ready to leave Christchurch? Reach out to our Travel Centre to organise your extended stay.

Multi Day Tour

Christchurch

Meal

Breakfast

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Marlborough Region

Ngarunui Beach

Hamilton Garden

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

Verified

The booking processs was really easy. Katie was very communicative and was very responsive. Every change we asked for, she quickly replied. The room arrangements had a small hiccupp but Katie fixed it within minutes! All the excursions were a blast and well planned. The trip was a bucket list trip and was everything we hoped for. Alison M

Verified

Allan Birkett at Goway has been an absolute godsend! Over the past year, he has helped me plan numerous vacations—especially honeymoons—and has been an incredible partner every step of the way. He is always quick to respond, patient with my clients' frequent changes, and goes above and beyond to help whenever an issue comes up. His knowledge, professionalism, and dedication make my job as a travel advisor so much easier. I truly appreciate everything Allan does and highly recommend him to anyone looking for exceptional service. Thank you, Allan, for always being thereBrooke Echols

Verified

Our 2-week trip to Normandy, Switzerland and Italy after we disembarked from the Queen Mary 2 in Southampton in mid-May was superb. Michael Keon did an amazing job of putting together highlights for us to see and visit with the short time we had. All the train reservations, private and small group tours and transportations were very well coordinated, on time, and usually exceeded our expectations. Drivers were courteous and knowledgeable. Mike did a wonderful job getting everything coordinated, in spite of our almost “last minute” booking. I booked a month-long trip through GOWAY back in 1989 for Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, and they were superb then. So I tried them again, and found the entire organization to be even better. Mike was quick to respond to any questions that came up regarding booksings and times, regardless of the 6-hour time difference. Just superb! Although we had a nasty experience in Milan, GOWAY was very responsive and saw to our requests and our needs. Again, Michael Keon is the person who coordinated our travel. I will ask for Mike when I travel again with GOWAY. I recommend GOWAY highly. PJ Wheeler

Verified

A BIG THANK YOU to Goway Travel, Brooke Theron and all of the partners onsite. Our trip to Africa was incredible, memories that will last forever. Everything planned and more went perfectly. The guides, the excursions, the accommodations, everything, was just spectacular. Fortunately, everything ran on time, no delays, no problems. Thank you again!! Linda Irias

Verified

I have been blessed to have an amazing rep, Farooq Qaisar! He has helped me find the best spots for my clients to experience and when I am looking for something and just can't figure it out, he is able to put together something better than I was thinking. He my go-to and I am thankful for all his help over the years!Sherri

Verified

Goway helped plan our two week trip to Peru and they (Virginia in particular) did a great job. The on-site logistics with Condor Travel went very smoothly, and the trip exceeded our expectations overall. They proactively suggested changes to our initial itinerary which were welcomed. I would recommend them and would work with them again in the future.Kate O'Neill

Verified

We entrusted Goway with every detail of our trip from start to finish and they came through for us superbly! Every single detail was smooth sailing. It was a joy to plan our travels with Goway!! We had an amazing trip of a lifetime! E&D

Verified

I recently went on an African Safari with my brother-in-law and sister and another couple who I knew. The entire experience was absolutely unbelievable. The complete details were flawlessly coordinated from the transfers to the breathtaking lodges. Our guides Peter showed us Kenya and Maulid Tanzania were very knowledgeable and very sharp eyes for finding the animals. We were able to see the animals up close, learn a lot about the people, birds , vegetation etc. We had several sundowners in the bush really added to a magical experience with beautiful sunsets. I would highly recommend Goway to all my friends, they will not be disappointed. Thank you to Bijal for the excellent African Safari that you put together for us. You were wonderful.Nancy Hay

Verified

We enjoyed our trip very much. I was very pleased by the hotel, tours, and itinerary selections that Alice Teramoto made for us. It was all well organized and easy to follow. Thank you very much for helping us have a great experience in Peru.IN

Verified

Everything was planned perfectly. The excursions were so small and personal. Ask for Mark! I have already planned another trip back to the Oregon wine country with Mark. Claire

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

Personalized Trips

Every vacation with Goway is tailored to your exact travel needs. Our vacations are as unique as you are.

Elevated Experiences

Travel experiences with up to 5-star accommodations and private guided tours that offers an intimate and exclusive way to see the world.

Authentic Experts

Work with our Destination Specialists who are true experts, having lived, worked, or traveled extensively in the destinations we offer.

Global Adventures

Enjoy great value on vacations to over 115 destinations on all seven continents. Explore the whole world in the way and style you choose.

What do the experts say?

Mikayla McInnis

Destination Specialist

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The food in New Zealand is incredible, and New Zealanders are rightly proud of their paddock to plate cuisine. Almost everything is sustainably grown and processed, from lamb and seafood to vegetables and fruit.

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Mary Georgiou

Destination Specialist

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About 20 percent of New Zealand is made up of National Parks, Forests, and Nature Reserves. And they’re all free to enter!

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Mary Georgiou

Destination Specialist

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The Māori cultural experiences and performances offered throughout the North and South Islands are well worth seeking out. If the opportunity presents itself, definitely take part in a hāngī

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Mary Georgiou

Destination Specialist

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Looking for a great restaurant in New Zealand? Try The Bunker in Queenstown, Plato in Dunedin, Manu in Christchurch, and Oppies Fish & Chips in Rotorua

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Erin Hutchinson

Destination Specialist

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All Blacks rugby is huge in New Zealand. If you’re a sports fan, be sure to check out a home game. The All Blacks typically play their home test matches during the months of July, August, September and sometimes October

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Exclusive Savings

Insider Benefits

New Zealand Cities and Sea

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

Arrive in Auckland

Auckland to Hamilton

Exploring Hamilton

Hamilton to Tongariro National Park

Discovering Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

Touring Wellington

Wellington to Marlborough

Discover Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough to Kaikoura

Kaikoura to Christchurch

Exploring Christchurch

Depart from Christchurch

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Auckland

Auckland to Hamilton

Exploring Hamilton

Hamilton to Tongariro National Park

Discovering Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park to Wellington

Touring Wellington

Wellington to Marlborough

Discover Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough to Kaikoura

Kaikoura to Christchurch

Exploring Christchurch

Depart from Christchurch

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

What do the experts say?

Mikayla McInnis

Mary Georgiou

Mary Georgiou

Mary Georgiou

Erin Hutchinson

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.