🌿🍷🇳🇿 Embark on an extraordinary journey with Professor Terry Hunt as we explore the ancient landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty of Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Our adventure begins in Auckland, where we'll gather for a welcome dinner before journeying through the Bay of Islands, discovering sacred Māori sites, historic settlements, and some of New Zealand's most significant archaeological treasures.

As we travel south, we'll experience the geothermal wonders and living Māori culture of Rotorua, savor exceptional wines on Waiheke Island, and delve into New Zealand's fascinating history through engaging lectures with Professor Hunt.

The journey continues across the spectacular South Island, where we'll ride the iconic TranzAlpine Railway, cruise through the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound, and soak in the beauty of Queenstown and the Southern Alps.

This carefully curated itinerary truly does it all—rich cultural experiences, world-class food and wine, extraordinary landscapes, and meaningful exploration.

Join us on this unforgettable expedition through Aotearoa, where ancient history and stunning natural beauty come together to create the journey of a lifetime. 🇳🇿🌿🚂⛰️🍷

What's included

3 Nights Auckland

5* Grand Millenium Hotel (or similar), with breakfast included, May 7-8 & May 10-12, 2027

2 Nights Paihia

4* Copthorne Waitangi (or similar), with breakfast included, May 8-10, 2027

2 Nights Rotorua

5* Pullman Hotel, with breakfast included, May 12-14, 2027

2 Nights Wellington

4* Naumi Hotel (or similar), with breakfast included, May 14-16, 2027

2 Nights Christchurch

4* Carnmore Hotel (or similar), with breakfast included, May 16-18, 2027

3 nights Queenstown

4* Millenium Hotel (or similar), with breakfast included, May 18-21, 2027

Māori History/Archeology

Mt. Eden (Maungawhau) Crater and Māori Pā Site, Ruapekapeka Pā, Waitangi Treaty Grounds (New Zealand’s most important historic site and the birthplace of the nation),

Māori Culture/Traditions

Traditional Māori cultural performance at Te Puia (Music and dance performances, traditional storytelling, Hāngī feast (cooked using geothermal steam), and evening experience around Pōhutu Geyser)

Museums & Culture

Auckland War Memorial Museum, Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand), Hundertwasser Museum and Wairau Māori Art Gallery

Historic Settlements

Kerikeri Mission House: One of New Zealand’s oldest European settlements and an important place in early Māori-European relations

Academic Insights

Educational sessions with Professor Terry Hunt and special lecture with Dr. Janet Wilmshurst on New Zealand ecological history

Domestic NZ Flight

Domestic flight from Wellington to Christchurch on May 16

Scenic TranzAlpine Rail

Christchurch → Arthur's Pass and return, one of the world's most beautiful train journeys.

Milford Sound Cruise

Full-day coach journey and boat cruise through Milford Sound

Transportation

Private luxury coach transportation throughout the tour, including all sightseeing and transfers between destinations

Group Meals

Daily breakfast, lunch and wine tasting on Waiheke Island, lunch in the Wairarapa wine region, a welcome dinner in Auckland, a traditional Māori hāngī feast, and a farewell dinner at an Otago winery

Travel Insurance

Basic group travel policy covering travel delay, baggage loss/delay, emergency medical. Note: This is not trip cancellation insurance, which can be purchased at an additional cost upon check out

Trusted Tour Leaders

Expert local New Zealand guide, along with TRC host Tessa Boyce, accompanying the group throughout the tour

What's not included

Air USA - New Zealand

Trusted travel agent available to help with flights and airport transfers upon request

Optional Activities

E-bike tour, volcanic helicopter tour, historic Wellington cable car, Redwoods tree walk, Bay of Islands cruise, chef's tasting menu dinner, sunrise hot air balloon ride and more!

Overview

About this trip

🌿 PREVIEW ITINERARY 🌿

Cancellation Information:

Payments & Service Fees