DETAILS
Experience the best of New Zealand and all three of its main islands—North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island. A diverse selection of excursion options offer generous access to the island nation’s dramatic glacial fiords, geothermal wonders, cultural richness, untamed wilderness, and Māori culture. Begin in Queenstown, set against the dramatic Southern Alps, followed by a cruise from Fiordland National Park to Auckland, calling at world-famous Milford, Doubtful, and Dusky Sounds in Fiordland National Park; Stewart Island, to seek out Royal Albatross; Dunedin, with its rich architectural heritage; the French-British settlement of Akaroa; Marlborough Sound; the vibrant city of Wellington; and Tauranga.
- Pricing from
- $9,990
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
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Nov 11, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
Upon payment of the $1,000 per person deposit, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be in effect until they are received in writing and confirmed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of reservation; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. After final payment deadline all payments are 100% nonrefundable, regardless of booking date. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. NOTE: Neither the National Trust for Historic Preservation nor Criterion Travel, the tour operator, accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalties incurred with the purchase of non-refundable tickets.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1 & 2
Depart the U.S. on overnight flights to Queenstown, New Zealand, crossing the international date line.
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day 3
Queenstown, New Zealand
Arrive in Queenstown and transfer to Novotel Queenstown Lakeside Hotel, ideally situated in the heart of Queenstown. Take an optional afternoon gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak for spectacular views over the city. This evening, gather for a welcome orientation and casual reception to meet fellow travelers.
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day 4
Bluff
Enjoy a morning and lunch at leisure in Queenstown. In the afternoon depart by motorcoach for a 3.5-hour drive to Bluff, where you will embark Heritage Adventurer. Gather on deck for cocktail hour as the ship departs for Fjordland National Park, and later, attend the Captain’s welcome reception and dinner.
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day 5
Fjordland National Park; Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds
Spend two full days exploring the incredible wilderness of Fjordland National Park, New Zealand’s wildest, most remote region, by Zodiac and by foot. Cruise the iconic Milford Sound, a spectacular fiord in the shadow of Mitre Peak.
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day 6
Stewart Island
Zodiac ashore to seldom-visited Stewart/Ulva Islands, an ornithologists’ delight. Follow local naturalist guides on bush walks in Rakiura National Park and then meet with local villagers during a visit to Oban. An optional ocean fishing excursion will be available at extra cost.
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day 7
Dunedin
Today choose from two optional tours: 1. Venture to Taiaroa Head to see Royal Albatrosses and Yellow-Eyed Penguins in their natural habitats; or 2. Visit a local sheep farm to learn about this vital industry in New Zealand. Following lunch, visit the Otago Museum’s Southern Land/Southern People gallery and enjoy free time in Dunedin’s delightful downtown.
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day 8
Lyttleton/Christchurch
Anchor in Lyttleton and travel to Christchurch for an overview of the city’s revived central district, a tour of Cardboard Cathedral, and a visit to nearby Canterbury Museum and its hall of Antarctic Discovery. Next tour the Ohinetani Gardens with lunch off the ship.
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day 9
Marlborough Sounds
Take Zodiacs to Ship Cove and choose from different hike options on New Zealand’s famed Queen Charlotte Track. Here scout for rare birds and other native wildlife. This evening arrive in Wellington and either join an optional post-dinner evening Twilight Tour at Zealandia to search for nocturnal species (added cost) or explore the nightlife of New Zealand’s capital city independently.
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day 10
Wellington
Today take guided walking tours of Wellington of varying length with possible stops that include the botanic gardens, St. Paul’s Church, and the renowned Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum. Tour the city independently this afternoon.
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day 11
At Sea
Today at sea, relax and take advantage of the ship’s many amenities as the educational program continues.
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day 12
Tauranga (Rotorua)
Disembark in Tauranga and drive to Rotorua, the rich heartland of Māori culture. Meet tribal leaders, see the bubbling mud pools, and enjoy a traditional hangi lunch. This evening attend the Captain’s Farewell reception followed by dinner on board.
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day 13
Auckland/Home
Disembark in Auckland and transfer to the airport for flights home or extend your stay in Auckland.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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Be prepared with the National Trust Travel Plan
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