Independent Naturally New Zealand
Independent Naturally New Zealand
Independent Naturally New Zealand
13 Days Starting in Auckland, New Zealand and ending in Queenstown, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Akaroa, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IPN1-2025
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Independent Naturally New Zealand" adventure tour and explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities of New Zealand. Begin your journey in Auckland, with leisure time to discover the city at your own pace. Travel south to the enchanting Hobbiton movie set before continuing to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders. Fly to Wellington, the nation's capital, and enjoy a tram pass to explore its attractions. Head to Christchurch and take a nature cruise in Akaroa Harbour, spotting native wildlife. Finally, experience the thrill of Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of the World," with a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Milford Sound. Enjoy daily breakfasts and two lunches as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Auckland,New Zealand
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
• Welcome to New Zealand! The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 2: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3: Auckland,Hobbiton,Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
• Travel via motorcoach south to visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. • Continue on to Rotorua.
Day 4: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Rotorua,Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Fly to Wellington, capital of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to start exploring this vibrant city. An All Day tram pass is included.
Day 6: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Wellington,Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Today, fly to Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island. Included in your stay is a tram pass that takes you around to the “must see” attractions. You are free to get on and off as you wish, and commentary is given by your tram driver. Please note that the pass is good for one calendar day.
Day 8: Christchurch. Excursion To Akaroa
Location: Akaroa
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Travel to Akaroa, a former French and British settlement where you will have some time to explore the charming village with its colonial architecture, galleries, and cafés. • Afterward, take a nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour for a chance to see some of the native wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, the white-flippered blue penguin, and the Hector’s dolphin, one of the smallest and rarest in the world. Return to Christchurch in the late afternoon. This evening is at leisure.
Day 9: Christchurch,Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Fly to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The remainder of day is at leisure. Your Local Host will have suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Why not take a stroll by the lake and enjoy the sunset this evening?
Day 10: Queenstown. Excursion To Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
• Enjoy a full-day excursion to Milford Sound. First, travel by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. View the Mirror Lakes as you pass through Eglinton Valley. From the Homer Tunnel, emerge into Cleddau Valley. Join your Milford Sound cruise for an unforgettable experience. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as dolphins and penguins and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls and scenery. Return to Queenstown late this evening.
Day 11: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Today is yours to explore as much or as little as you wish. Options include a scenic bike riding excursion, an exciting helicopter flight over the Remarkables Mountains, tee up for a round of golf, sip some local wines or just relax with a spa treatment.
Day 12: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 13: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Adina Auckland Britomart, Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Atura Wellington, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, and Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront.
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Meals
Breakfast daily and 2 lunches are included.
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Transportation
Travel via motorcoach, flights between cities, and tram passes in Wellington and Christchurch.
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Excursions
Excursions to Hobbiton movie set, Akaroa nature cruise, and Milford Sound cruise.
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Local Host
A Local Host will provide suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing in Queenstown.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from New Zealand are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other entry/exit fees are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily; 2 lunches
Accommodation
Auckland: Adina Auckland Britomart, Rotorua: Distinction Hotel Rotorua, Wellington: Atura Wellington, Christchurch: Rydges Latimer Christchurch, Queenstown: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Mode of Transport
Travel by motorcoach, flights between cities, and tram passes in Wellington and Christchurch for convenient and flexible exploration.
Notes
During the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, certain activities may not be available. A different activity may be substituted or a refund offered if your included activity is not available. Intra-tour flights not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I do on the first day in Auckland?
On the first day in Auckland, the rest of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
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What is included in the visit to Hobbiton?
The visit to Hobbiton includes traveling via motorcoach south to visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
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What activities are available in Rotorua?
In Rotorua, you will have time to explore the area, and the itinerary includes a visit to the Hobbiton movie set on the way to Rotorua.
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What can I do in Wellington with the tram pass?
In Wellington, the tram pass allows you to explore the city at your leisure, with the ability to get on and off as you wish. Commentary is provided by the tram driver.
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What is included in the Christchurch tram pass?
The Christchurch tram pass includes access to the tram that takes you around to the 'must see' attractions, with the ability to get on and off as you wish. Commentary is provided by the tram driver, and the pass is valid for one calendar day.
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What can I expect during the excursion to Akaroa?
During the excursion to Akaroa, you will have time to explore the charming village with its colonial architecture, galleries, and cafés. You will also take a nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour to see native wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals, the white-flippered blue penguin, and the Hector’s dolphin.
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What activities are available in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, you have the option to explore the area at your leisure. Activities include scenic bike riding excursions, helicopter flights over the Remarkables Mountains, golfing, wine tasting, or relaxing with a spa treatment.
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What is included in the Milford Sound excursion?
The Milford Sound excursion includes traveling by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, viewing the Mirror Lakes, passing through Eglinton Valley, and emerging into Cleddau Valley from the Homer Tunnel. You will join a Milford Sound cruise to see wildlife such as dolphins and penguins, and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls and scenery.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
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We look after you every step of the way.