New Zealand: Two Island Snapshot with Airfare

Drift into Auckland, from North America, and settle into a vibrant harbour city alive with culture.
Explore Auckland’s iconic landmarks before wandering black-sand Piha beach and rainforest in the Waitakere Ranges.
Cruise the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island for scenic views, coastal charm, and island discovery.
Journey through Waikato farmland to Hobbiton and on to Rotorua’s geothermal wonders and Maori traditions.
Traverse the South Island from Christchurch to Queenstown for alpine scenery, Milford Sound’s towering fiords, and serene lakeside moments.

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.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

North America to Auckland

DAY

Cross International Dateline

DAY

Arrive New Zealand

DAY

Best of Both Worlds

DAY

Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Including Return Ferry

DAY

Auckland to Rotorua Day Tour including Hobbiton

DAY

Elite Rotorua Full Day Tour & Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience

DAY

Rotorua to Christchurch

DAY

Christchurch City Sightseeing Morning & Wine Trail - Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

DAY

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

DAY

Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown

DAY

Day at Leisure in Queenstown

DAY

Depart from Queenstown

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

North America to Auckland

Begin your adventure as you depart North America, embarking on an exciting journey across the Pacific to the dynamic city of Auckland, New Zealand. Prepare to explore a land of stunning natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural experiences as you settle in for your international flight to this vibrant destination.

Multi Day Tour

North America to Auckland

DAY

Cross International Dateline

Crossing the International Dateline en route to New Zealand, you’ll lose a calendar day - a unique quirk of intercontinental travel that brings you closer to the adventure awaiting on the other side of the world.

Multi Day Tour

Cross International Dateline

DAY

Arrive New Zealand

Upon your arrival at Auckland International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel to begin your New Zealand adventure. Once settled in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure — take some time to relax, explore Auckland’s bustling waterfront and vibrant city streets, or sample the local culinary scene at your own pace.

Multi Day Tour

Arrive New Zealand

Your Accommodation

Adina CityLife Auckland

Located right in the centre of the city on Queen Street with excellent access to shopping, restaurants, bars and the Viaduct Harbour, Adina CityLife Auckland offers spacious suite-style accommodation comprising of a selection of deluxe hotel rooms or suites with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms and Penthouses.

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DAY

Best of Both Worlds

Let Bush and Beach take you on a day tour to experience the best of Auckland sightseeing. We combine an Auckland city tour in the morning with an afternoon nature tour to the black sand beach and rainforest at Piha - a day of variety and a great introduction to Auckland and New Zealand. Your morning Auckland city tour is designed to explore the history and sights of the city. Discover the Maori history of the city and as see what makes our city a vibrant place to live. Auckland City is built around the beautiful Waitmata harbour and it is known as the "City of Sails". This city tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Mount Victoria in Devonport and Westhaven marina. There is also a stop at a cafe by a beautiful beach and lots of photo opportunities all day. Your afternoon eco tour is spent in the Waitakere Ranges. In just 30 minutes you leave behind the bustle of the city and step into the tranquility of the rainforest. Travel to the Arataki Centre, an information centre built high on the ridge of the Waitakere Ranges. From here you get breathtaking panoramic views across the rainforest to Auckland's two harbours. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area. Continue on to the lush rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns and view New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and silver ferns. Move on to experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand of Piha beach beneath your feet as you stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer. The perfect Auckland day trip. During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits and tea and coffee or juice.

Multi Day Tour

Best of Both Worlds

Your Accommodation

Adina CityLife Auckland

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DAY

Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Including Return Ferry

Be introduced to Waiheke on the Fullers Explorer Tour, a picturesque 35-minute boat trip followed by 1.5-hour scenic highlight tour of Waiheke's stunning locations. Cruise to Waiheke through the glorious Hauraki Gulf, on arrival you will be met by an experienced guide who will give you a taste of the views, culture and history that make up the diverse Island of Waiheke. On conclusion of the tour, take advantage of the complimentary All Day Bus Pass allowing you to either return to a destination on the tour or discover the island further on the Waiheke Island scheduled bus services.

Multi Day Tour

Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Incl Return Ferry

Your Accommodation

Adina CityLife Auckland

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DAY

Auckland to Rotorua Day Tour including Hobbiton

Take a journey into the heart of the Central North Island, taking in Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day sightseeing tour. Setting off from Auckland, you will travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions, enjoying your driver guide’s entertaining and informative commentary. Upon arrival at Hobbiton you will enjoy a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250-acre sheep and beef farm near Matamata. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location, you’ll see sights like Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and The Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. After exploring Hobbiton, tuck into a delicious lunch at The Green Dragon Inn. Then finish the tour with a coach ride onto Rotorua.

Multi Day Tour

Auckland to Rotorua Day Tour including Hobbiton

Your Accommodation

Distinction Rotorua Hotel and Conference Centre

Your home of adventure is located adjacent to the Whakarewarewa Forest offering world-class mountain biking trails. With a beautiful garden setting, the affordable Distinction Rotorua Hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind after enjoying the wealth of attractions and activities that Rotorua has to offer. Located minutes from the city center and offering guests mountain bike facilities including a wash down facility as well as a purpose-built, individual locker bike storage unit, FREE unlimited WiFi & complimentary guest car parking make the hotel a superb base for exploring the Rotorua area.

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DAY

Elite Rotorua Full Day Tour & Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience

This tour visits Rotorua's most natural and popular geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rainbow Mt and boiling mudfields. Our local naturalist guide will explain the volcanic processes of Rotorua and New Zealand. Your clients will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, and hot springs on a scenic drive around volcanic landscapes of farmland, native and exotic forests. The two heritage parks offer a variety of thermal activity; at Wai-o-tapu the amazingly colourful hot springs and moonlike landscapes are the key features along with the famous Lady Know geyser. At Waimangu Volcanic valley the guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption, native flora and fauna and the geothermal features which were blown open in 1886. Tour costs include entry to both thermal parks. In the afternoon visit Rotorua’s most popular attractions Te Puia and views of the our beautiful lakes including Tarawera, Okareka and the Blue/Green lake. Spend an afternoon gaining an appreciation of New Zealand’s Maori culture and nature. Learn about Maori customs, traditions, history and protocols, with a guided visit to Te Puia, Rotorua's premier cultural centre. Includes visit to the wood carving school, arts and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving, boiling mud pools and NZ’s largest geyser Pohutu. Includes entry to Te Puia. Upon conclusion of your tour you will be transferred back to your accommodation. Te Po is an intimate time for sharing knowledge and is also Te Puia’s authentic evening cultural experience - a feast of food, culture and friendship. Te Po begins with a mouth-watering buffet dinner with locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish. Following dinner, you will experience the exhilarating pohiri (ceremonial welcome) into a beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. Enjoy the beauty and power of traditional waiata (song), moteatea (chants), poi and haka. Then travel into the geothermal valley for a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock-seating overlooking the dramatically lit Pohutu Geyser.

Multi Day Tour

Elite Rotorua Full Day Tour & Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience

Your Accommodation

Distinction Rotorua Hotel and Conference Centre

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DAY

Rotorua to Christchurch

Travel from Rotorua to Christchurch, with convenient transfers provided to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. Upon arrival in Christchurch, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to relax or begin exploring the city’s charming streets, gardens, and landmarks, your time in Christchurch is yours to enjoy at your own pace.

Multi Day Tour

Rotorua to Christchurch

Your Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Cotswold

Formerly known as Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Scenic Hotel Cotswold Christchurch has undergone a refurbishment over the past year. We’ve retained the distinctive Tudor-style architecture that the hotel is well-known for, reflecting Christchurch’s image as the most English of cities outside England. Many of the guest rooms have been refurbished to an executive level, offering style and comfort discerning travelers will appreciate.

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DAY

Christchurch City Sightseeing Morning & Wine Trail - Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

See the central city highlights including the botanical gardens, Museum and Art Centre, the Avon River, Bridge of Remembrance, the cities new pop up container mall and many other CBD highlights. On leaving the inner city, travel to Mona Vale a historic homestead and gardens, then up to the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. Travel over the Port Hills to the Port of Lyttleton, through the harbor tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and cave rock before returning to the central city where the tour will conclude. This tour explores 3 of North Canterbury’s boutique vineyards. From Christchurch drive north through the New Zealand countryside to the Waipara Valley, well known for its warm, dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape of the valley, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominating local plantings. Stops for tastings may include Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, Torlesse, Georges Road and Waipara Hills Winery. Should any of these be unavailable on the day, an alternative winery will be included. This tour includes lunch at Waipara Springs Winery. The platter lunch includes tastes of both a regional and New Zealand flavor and is the perfect accompaniment to some of this wineries fine wines.

Multi Day Tour

Christchurch City Sightseeing Morning & Wine Trail - Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

Your Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Cotswold

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DAY

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

Today, transfer from Christchurch to Queenstown while exploring some of New Zealand's most spellbinding landscapes. This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the region, including the famous Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier, making it the ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown. Your tour is led by passionate tour guides notorious for bringing the journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge.

Multi Day Tour

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

Your Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Experience tranquility all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. Popular ski areas such as Coronet Peak is a 20 minutes drive and Remarkables is a 45 minutes drive away. Our accommodation in Queenstown is nestled within our garden-inspired property: 240 guest rooms, including 6 Suites and over 80 rooms that have views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Select rooms also feature private balconies or courtyards. There are meetings facilities with Wi-Fi access in public areas, as well as in Impressions Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront is a 4-star and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. We are firmly committed to sustainability best practices, constantly reviewing and improving operations to minimise impact on the environment.

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DAY

Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown

Leaving Queenstown, travel in comfort along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and into southern farmland to Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island. After a morning tea stop (own expense), travel along the lake and into Fiordland National Park. Enter the picturesque Eglinton Valley, a place of ancient alpine forest and gushing waterfalls and one of only a few road-accessible glacier valleys in New Zealand, and take advantage of the photo opportunities on offer along the Milford Road, like the stunning Mirror Lakes, where on a calm day the surrounding mountain ranges are perfectly reflected in the still waters, and Knobs Flat, where glaciers have carved their mark on the terrain. Your glass-roof coach will provide amazing views of the dramatic skyline as you cross the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, with stunning mountain peaks all around. Stop at Monkey Creek and sample some of the purest water in the world (but watch out for cheeky kea – native mountain parrots!). Travel under the mountains through the Homer Tunnel, a 1.2km passageway drilled into solid rock, and descend through native forest into Milford Sound. At Milford Sound, board your 1hr 45min scenic cruise, and set off to explore the region that Rudyard Kipling called the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. On your cruise you travel the length of the fiord and out to the Tasman Sea, gliding past glacier-scarred rock walls and waterfalls that tumble into the sea. Lush native rainforest clings to steep cliffs, while wildlife including seals, penguins and dolphins are regular visitors to the icy waters. Mountain ranges surround the fiord, including Mitre Peak which rises dramatically from the depths to a height of 1,692 metres above sea level. Your catamaran has extensive outdoor decks so you can get up close to nature. Inside you’ll find comfortable seating as well as unobstructed views through full-height windows, so you won’t miss a thing. Along the way your captain will provide lively and informative commentary. After your cruise, return to Queenstown by coach.

Multi Day Tour

Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown

Your Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

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DAY

Day at Leisure in Queenstown

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Spend the day exploring at your own pace—wander the lakeside, browse local boutiques, or simply relax and soak in the stunning alpine scenery.

Multi Day Tour

Day at Leisure in Queenstown

Your Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

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DAY

Depart from Queenstown

Today, transfer to Queenstown Airport, where you’ll be prepared for your onward journey. Take a moment to reflect on your unforgettable time in this stunning alpine town before continuing on to your next exciting destination.

Multi Day Tour

Depart from Queenstown

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Waipara Vineyard

Hobbiton, Matamata

Lion Rock Piha Beach Auckland New Zealand

Black Sand Beach, Piha

Rose Garden Botanical Garden Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

City 870Partly Cloudy

16°C / 61°F

35mm / 1.4"

City 630Partly Cloudy

19°C / 67°F

35mm / 1.4"

City 882Occasional Showers

17°C / 62°F

64mm / 2.5"

City 572Light Rain

18°C / 65°F

74mm / 2.9"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

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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Insider Benefits

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1 May to 28 June, 2026	$4,239
29 June to 30 September, 2026	$4,329
Add-on Airfare Information: For departures from San Francisco, add US$65 per person For departures from Houston, Seattle, or Portland, add US$250 per person For departures from Dallas or Denver, add US$325 per person For departures from Chicago or Orlando, add US$415 per person For departures from New York City, add US$465 For departures from Buffalo or Boston, add US$640 Ask a Goway Destination Specials about rates for Premium Economy & Business Class flights

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29 June - 23 July, 18 - 30 September, 2026	$6,499
24 July - 17 September, 2026	$5,999
Add-on Airfare Information: For departures from Calgary, Edmonton, Kamloops, or Kelowna, add CA$110 For departures from Saskatoon, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, or Montreal, add CA$320 per person For departures from Halifax, add CA$365 per person For departures from Quebec City, add CA$610 per person Ask a Goway Destination Specials about rates for Premium Economy & Business Class flights

New Zealand: Two Island Snapshot with Airfare

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

North America to Auckland

Cross International Dateline

Arrive New Zealand

Best of Both Worlds

Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Including Return Ferry

Auckland to Rotorua Day Tour including Hobbiton

Elite Rotorua Full Day Tour & Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience

Rotorua to Christchurch

Christchurch City Sightseeing Morning & Wine Trail - Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown

Day at Leisure in Queenstown

Depart from Queenstown

Detailed Itinerary

North America to Auckland

Cross International Dateline

Arrive New Zealand

Best of Both Worlds

Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Including Return Ferry

Auckland to Rotorua Day Tour including Hobbiton

Elite Rotorua Full Day Tour & Te Po - Indigenous Evening Experience

Rotorua to Christchurch

Christchurch City Sightseeing Morning & Wine Trail - Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown

Day at Leisure in Queenstown

Depart from Queenstown

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Most Popular Time to Travel

Know when to go.

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.