Dates: November 8 – 20, 2026

*The program aligns with the dates of the Australia expedition, October 28 – November 20, 2026

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Group size: 8 – 12 participants

Price per person:
– 6550 USD subject to 12 participants
– 6990 USD subject to 10–11 participants
– 7690 USD subject to 8–9 participant

Early bird discount: 10% (if booked before June 8, 2026)

All inclusive except:

• International flights to Auckland and from Christchurch
• Domestic flights along the route (Auckland → Christchurch and Milford Sound → Queenstown)
• Travel insurance
• Visa
• Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary

Estimated cost of international flights Moscow → Auckland and Christchurch → Moscow: from USD 1,300 (tickets booked independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated domestic flights along the route: Auckland → Christchurch: approx. USD 80–150, Milford Sound → Queenstown: approx. USD 310–320. Tickets booked independently; we provide guidance.

Single supplement: USD 1,850 (single accommodation available throughout the itinerary).



TRAVEL PROGRAM: тур в Новую Зеландию

Day 1. 8 November 2026 (Sunday). Arrival in Auckland
We arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, nestled between two Pacific Ocean harbors. Home to over 1.3 million people, it’s the world’s leading center of Polynesian culture. Founded by Europeans in 1840, Auckland was the country’s capital for a time.
Meeting at the airport. Check-in after 3:00 PM.
In the afternoon — free time to recover from the flight. Take a walk along the waterfront, explore the marinas, or simply relax. Auckland is called the “City of Sails”: it has one of the highest yacht-per-capita ratios in the world. The city is surrounded by water, with a humid climate and rapidly changing weather.
In recent years, Auckland has hosted major international events, including the America’s Cup regatta. This has transformed the city, giving it a vibrant waterfront, modern architecture, and a thriving gastronomy scene.

* Recommended flights from Moscow to Auckland:

– China Southern Airlines: Depart Guangzhou (CAN) 00:10, 8 November → Arrive Auckland (AKL) 16:15, 8 November, or

– Emirates: Depart Dubai (DXB) 10:05, 7 November → Arrive Auckland (AKL) 11:15, 8 November (note: check-in from 15:00, or

– Air China: Depart Beijing (PEK) 00:25, 8 November → Arrive Auckland (AKL) 17:25, 8 November, or

Accommodation: M Social Hotel Auckland
Meals included: –


Day 2. 9 November 2026 (Monday). AUCKLAND & TASMAN SEA COAST

In the morning, we set out to explore Auckland — a city that pulses with the energy of a business capital while nestling among a volcanic archipelago.
The first half of the day is dedicated to a city tour of key landmarks. We’ll see the central districts, waterfront, and business hub, cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge over Waitematā Harbour, visit marinas filled with hundreds of yachts, and walk along Queen Street, the city’s main artery.
Next, we ascend Maungawhau / Mount Eden, one of the best vantage points in the city (196 m). From here, you can see how Auckland spreads between two seas, and how the craters of extinct volcanoes have been transformed into lush parks.
In the afternoon, we head to the Tasman Sea coast — New Zealand’s own “Hawai’i,” where the landscape changes completely. Black volcanic sand beaches, dense subtropical forests, and the open ocean define this wild stretch. At Muriwai Beach, known for its strong winds, powerful waves, and seabird colonies, gannets and terns nest on the cliffs — hundreds of birds within arm’s reach. The constant roar of the surf, fierce winds, and expansive ocean views make this coast dramatically different from the gentler eastern beaches. This area has also served as the backdrop for films such as The Piano, Tarzan, and Xena: Warrior Princess.
We’ll stroll along the black sand beach and stop at a local winery. New Zealand wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, are world-renowned (tasting available at own expense). In the evening, we return to Auckland.

Accommodation included: M Social Hotel Auckland
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 3. 10 November 2026 (Tuesday). AUCKLAND – WAITOMO – ROTORUA

Early in the morning, we depart Auckland and head south toward the Waikato region. The drive takes about 2.5 hours (185 km) through classic New Zealand countryside: rolling hills, pastures, farms, and small settlements.

Our first stop is a native bird park in the Waitomo area, home to some of New Zealand’s most iconic wildlife. We’ll see the kiwi, the shy, nocturnal, flightless bird that has become the country’s symbol, and the tuatara, an ancient reptile over 200 million years old, largely unchanged since the age of dinosaurs.

Next, we visit one of the itinerary’s natural highlights: the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The name comes from the Māori language: wai — water, tomo — hole.
We descend into a limestone gallery system filled with stalactites and stalagmites, pass through the so-called “Cathedral,” famous for its natural acoustics, and then board a boat to glide along an underground river. In the darkness, the cave ceilings are illuminated by colonies of bioluminescent glowworms — a magical effect resembling a starry sky or a dense Milky Way.

The Waitomo region contains over 300 caves and is considered one of the world’s most remarkable karst landscapes. These caves have also featured in documentaries, including BBC’s Planet Earth series.

After the underground adventure, we enjoy lunch at a local farm, a classic New Zealand BBQ with fire-grilled meats, fresh salads, local produce, and wine.
In the afternoon, we continue to Rotorua (approx. 2 hours, 139 km). The city sits within the caldera of an ancient volcano, in a zone of active geothermal activity. The air carries a constant hint of sulfur, and geysers, boiling mud pools, and hot springs are everywhere. The region has deep Māori cultural roots, with geothermal waters historically used for cooking, heating, and healing.

After check-in, enjoy some free time.
Optional: Visit the Polynesian Spa, featuring mineral pools of varying temperatures and compositions.

Accommodation included: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

ДDay 4. 11 November 2026 (Wednesday). ROTORUA – GEOTHERMAL VALLEYS – TAUPO

In the morning, we continue exploring Rotorua, a region where geothermal activity is part of daily life. The name Rotorua comes from Māori: roto — lake, rua — second. The city’s history stretches back over eight centuries, when the first Māori recognized the gifts of nature — hot springs, steam, and healing muds. Rotorua sits within the caldera of an ancient volcano, partially filled by Lake Rotorua.

We drive along the lakefront, home to black swans and waterfowl, and explore historic city districts and Government Gardens, one of the region’s most recognizable architectural ensembles.

Next, we stroll through a forest of ancient ferns and towering redwoods, including the silver fern, one of New Zealand’s national symbols. Optional: walk along elevated canopy trails among the treetops (paid locally).

Then we enter a geothermal valley and visit a living Māori village. This is not a reconstruction — it is an active settlement where locals continue to use geothermal heat for cooking, bathing, and heating. Here we’ll see geysers, boiling mud pools, steam vents, and fumaroles, including the region’s largest geyser, Pohutu Geyser. The visit also includes historical sites and buildings, such as an active marae (Māori meeting place), a WWII memorial arch, historic churches, and a tapu (cemetery).
The Tuhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people take pride in their century-long tradition of sharing stories through song and dance. We’ll experience a cultural program featuring traditional Māori songs and dances, including the haka, the ceremonial war dance made famous by New Zealand’s national rugby team, and the women’s Poi dance.
Lunch features the traditional hāngī: food cooked in an earth oven using hot stones and steam. This ancient Māori method allows meat, fish, root vegetables, and vegetables to cook in their own juices, creating tender, flavorful dishes with deep, rich taste.

In the afternoon, we head toward Taupo, stopping at the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Reserve, one of the country’s most visually striking areas, with brightly colored mineral lakes, sulfur formations, and thermal pools, including the famous Champagne Pool.
We also make a short walk to Huka Falls, where the relatively modest height of the waterfall belies the sheer power of the flow — up to 220,000 liters per second — making it one of New Zealand’s most impressive water discharges.
In the evening, enjoy free time for a stroll or a swim in the lake.

Accommodation included: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5. 12 November 2026 (Thursday). AUCKLAND – HOBBITON – CHRISTCHURCH

Early in the morning, we depart Auckland and head south toward the Waikato region, passing through the village of Hobbiton. The drive takes approximately 3 hours (256 km) through New Zealand’s picturesque pastoral landscapes — rolling hills, pastures, farms, and small settlements.

Our first stop is the Hobbiton Movie Set. We’ll stroll along the paths between hobbit holes and explore the everyday life of these little Middle-earth inhabitants. Even if you’ve never read Tolkien or seen the films, the setting is enchanting: neat gardens, round doors, and pastoral lawns create a truly fairytale atmosphere. The tour concludes with a visit to the legendary Green Dragon Inn, where over a mug of ale, beer, or ginger drink, you can feel like a real hobbit. The roaring fireplace and Scottish melodies complete the cozy Middle-earth ambiance.
After the tour, we transfer to the airport for a flight to Christchurch (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes).

Upon arrival, we discover Christchurch, the “Garden City” and arguably the most English city outside England. We’ll walk through the Botanic Gardens, visit an art centre with workshops of local artists and jewelers, and see Cathedral Square and the central streets. Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, lies on the Canterbury Plains at the foot of the Southern Alps. Traditionally known as the “Garden City,” the Avon River flows through the centre and the Botanic Gardens, which celebrate their 150th anniversary in 2026, housing one of the finest collections of native and exotic plants.

*Recommended flight:
– Air New Zealand: Depart Auckland (AKL) 15:00 → Arrive Christchurch (CHC) 16:25

Accommodation included: Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 6. 13 November 2026 (Friday). CHRISTCHURCH – LAKE TEKAPO – MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK – TWIZEL

Early in the morning, we depart Christchurch and head south toward Mount Cook National Park, passing Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. The drive takes about 4 hours (330 km) across plains, rolling hills, and the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps.
Our first stop is Lake Tekapo, its turquoise waters framed by majestic mountain ranges. Here you’ll find the famous Church of the Good Shepherd and a monument to the sheepdog that once helped local farmers. The lake is part of a Dark Sky Reserve — you can climb to a hilltop viewpoint for panoramic views, and in the evening, enjoy a stargazing tour under one of the clearest skies in the world.

Next, we visit a viewpoint at Lake Pukaki, offering sweeping views of the turquoise waters, surrounding mountains, and, on clear days, Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak (3,724 m).

In the afternoon, we take a 1-hour walk in Mount Cook National Park, along a valley with hanging glaciers and spectacular views of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks. The trail begins at White Horse Hill Campsite and winds through iconic alpine scenery.
Optional activity: scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps, providing breathtaking aerial views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Tasman and Cook Mountains, temperate rainforests, and the Tasman Sea coastline.

In the evening, we drive to the village of Twizel (approx. 45 minutes, 65 km) and check in to our hotel.

Accommodation included: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 7. 14 November 2026 (Saturday). OAMARU – TWIZEL

Early in the morning, we depart Oamaru and head south toward Twizel. The drive takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (146 km).

Our first stop is an alpine salmon farm, where you can taste fresh salmon raised in the pure mountain waters of the Aoraki Plateau (tasting at own expense). The farm supplies salmon to some of the world’s finest restaurants, and on-site, you can enjoy a variety of dishes.

Next, we visit the Clay Cliffs, walking among stunning formations shaped millions of years ago by glacial activity. Surrounded by these cliffs, it feels as if you’ve stepped onto another planet.
We then explore the Elephant Rocks, a field of enormous, oddly shaped boulders. Scenes from The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed here. The rocks were formed 23–25 million years ago when fossil-rich limestone eroded to create this majestic landscape.

In the afternoon, we visit Oamaru’s Craft Centre and Steampunk Museum. Stroll through the historic district, visit artisan workshops, and shop for local crafts. Those interested can visit the Steampunk Museum or stop by a local whisky distillery or brewery (optional, additional cost).
Later in the evening, after checking in at the hotel, we head to the Pacific coast for a natural spectacle — the penguin parade. These tiny penguins, the smallest in the world, return from the ocean to their nesting grounds near sunset. Measuring only 15–20 cm, their distinctive white-and-blue plumage gives them their name: Blue Penguins.

Accommodation included: The Lakes Motel Twizel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 8. 15 November 2026 (Sunday). DUNEDIN – MOERAKI – TE ANAU

Today we travel from Dunedin to Oamaru — 115 km through the scenic landscapes of the South Island, with plenty of panoramic views.

Our first stop is a walk to the famous Moeraki Boulders. These enormous, perfectly round stones formed millions of years ago in the ocean and, as if by magic, rolled onto the beach. The sight of these massive “spheres” is a reminder of the wonders nature creates. Nearby, the Moeraki Peninsula is home to a colony of sea lions, and rare Yellow-eyed Penguins can be spotted among the coastal rocks. The sea air, the sound of waves, and wildlife viewing create a full immersion in nature.
Next, we visit Dunedin, known as the “Little Edinburgh” of New Zealand. Founded in 1848 by Scottish settlers, the city retains its Scottish character: Victorian facades, St Paul’s Cathedral, Otago University — the country’s oldest university — and the famous Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world (up to 35°), listed in the Guinness World Records.

We’ll stroll through Octagon Square, admire the Edwardian Baroque railway station, and visit the First Church.

After this rich program, we continue to Te Anau — 287 km through Fiordland’s hills and forests, with a short coffee stop along the way. We stay in the lakeside town on Lake Te Anau, the largest of the South Island’s glacial lakes (344 km²), with three western fjord arms and rolling hills to the east. The lake lies within Fiordland National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site.

Accommodation included: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas or similar
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 9. 16 November 2026 (Monday). TE ANAU – MILFORD SOUND – QUEENSTOWN

Early in the morning, we check out of our hotel and depart Te Anau for the heart of Fiordland National Park, one of the largest and most scenic parks in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive is mesmerizing: mountain gorges, mirror-like lakes, ancient rainforests, and secluded lagoons. Along the way, we may spot kea parrots and their noisy relatives kaka, the nearly extinct takahē, while the Homer Tunnel seems to guard the entrance to this pristine wilderness.
Upon arrival at Milford Sound, we board a fjord cruise. Towering cliffs, glacial caps, cascading waterfalls, and the majestic Mitre Peak take your breath away. Here, nature is the ultimate artist — every curve of the fjord, every drop of water, is filled with history and beauty beyond words.
Optional activity: scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown. From above, you’ll see the Southern Alps, glaciers, and the entirety of Fiordland National Park. This not only offers an incredible perspective but also saves approximately 4.5 hours of driving.
We return to Queenstown, with a short coffee stop in Te Anau. Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown is compact, vibrant, and full of life.

Accommodation included: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside or similar
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 10. 17 November 2026 (Monday). QUEENSTOWN

The heart of Queenstown, founded in the 1860s as a gold-mining camp, is now a compact town with a friendly atmosphere. Narrow streets are filled with lively bars and restaurants, cozy hostels, stylish hotels, and local boutiques.

Today, Queenstown reveals all its adventurous secrets. Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World”, the town combines nature, adrenaline, and breathtaking scenery — mountains, lakes, and green valleys provide the perfect backdrop for every adventure. Today is a free day — a chance to explore, choose your experiences, and test your limits while soaking in every moment in the heart of the Southern Alps.

Optional activities (at own expense):

• Bungee and swing jumps
• White-water rafting
• Jet boating and personal watercraft rides
• Cruises on Lake Wakatipu
• 4x4 jeep tours and safaris
• Walks through botanical gardens and trails
• Cycling routes around the lake
• Paragliding and hang-gliding
• Horseback rides through mountains and valleys

Accommodation included: Mercure Queenstown Resort or similar
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 11. 18 November 2026 (Tuesday). QUEENSTOWN – WANAKA – FOX & FRANZ JOSEF GLACIERS

Today we travel to Wanaka — 70 km through the Remarkables with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Along the way, we stop at New Zealand’s oldest tavern and take photos at the quirky bra collection on a farm fence, a small ritual for travelers.
In Wanaka, a lakeside walk offers stunning mountain and water views. At the pier, you may see and feed large lake eels. The highlight photo of the day is the famous lone tree, standing alone in the water — attracting photographers year-round.

From Wanaka, we continue through temperate rainforests and snow-capped mountains to Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. The route passes through Mount Aspiring and Westland National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Several stops and short walks allow time to enjoy views and take photos.

Time permitting, we’ll take a walk along a Tasman Sea beach through relic forests, home to rare crested penguins. Even if penguins aren’t spotted, the wild beach and lush rainforest will leave a lasting impression. The round-trip walk is approximately 4.7 km.

We finish the day with a gentle stroll around Lake Matheson, where the Southern Alps’ peaks — Mount Cook and Mount Tasman — reflect in the calm waters.
Overnight in Fox or Franz Josef village, a cozy corner between glaciers and mountains where the power of nature is felt fully.

Accommodation included: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 12. 19 November 2026 (Tuesday). FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER – HOKITIKA – PUNAKAIKI PANCAKE ROCKS

The day begins with a walk to Franz Josef Glacier, passing through temperate rainforests and a scenic valley with cascading waterfalls leading to the multi-kilometer glacier descending from the Southern Alps. Being close to the glacier, you can feel the power of the ice, hear its cracking, and marvel at the incredible blue hues of the ice.
Afterwards, we travel along the Tasman Sea coast to the Pancake Rocks — 222 km of scenic road through rainforests and small gold-mining towns. This stretch of the West Coast is considered one of New Zealand’s most beautiful, much of it part of the UNESCO World Heritage area.
On the way, we stop in Hokitika — a historic center for jade (pounamu) carving. Today, Hokitika is a hub of artisan workshops: jade carving, local gold jewelry, glassblowing, and stone artists. A stroll through town allows you to pick up unique souvenirs and experience the cultural heritage of the West Coast.
Next, we visit the Pancake Rocks in Paparoa National Park. The rock formations, stacked like pancakes, are truly striking. During high tide, seawater shoots through narrow gaps between the rocks, creating spectacular blowholes — a natural theater of stone and water.
Overnight in Paparoa National Park or Greymouth, ready for the journey along the wild West Coast the next day.

Accommodation included: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki or similar
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 13. 20 November 2026 (Wednesday). PANCAKE ROCKS – ARTHUR’S PASS – CHRISTCHURCH

Early morning departure through the Southern Alps — 290 km between rock formations and green valleys.
The first stop is the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall in Arthur’s Pass National Park, where 131 meters of water plunge dramatically from the pass. Next, we visit the Castle Rocks — enormous limestone formations, remnants of ancient oceanic seabeds, resembling the ruins of a giant castle. Scenes from The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed here, and the Dalai Lama called this place the “spiritual center of the universe.”
After an exploration-filled day at Arthur’s Pass and Castle Rocks, we continue to Christchurch Airport for your onward international flight home.
Haere rā, kākite anō! — the journey continues, and the memories remain. May the spirit of the Southern Alps stay with you.

Accommodation included: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki or similar
Meals included: Breakfast

*Recommended flights from Christchurch:

— Emirates, departing Christchurch (CHC) at 18:20 on 20 November, technical stop in Sydney (SYD), arriving in Dubai (DXB) at 05:15 on 21 November, or

— Air New Zealand + China Eastern, departing Christchurch (CHC) at 21:00 on 20 November, arriving in Auckland (AKL) at 22:25 on 20 November; 1 h 30 m layover. Then departing Auckland (AKL) at 23:55 on 20 November, arriving in Shanghai (PVG) at 07:05 on 21 November, or

— Or any other flight at your convenience no earlier than 19:00 on 20 November.