The Long White Cloud

The Long White Cloud

81 Views
19 Days From

$14025

The Long White Cloud

19 Days Starting in Christchurch, New Zealand and ending in Auckland, New Zealand

Visiting: Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef Glacier, Arrowtown, Queenstown, Mirror Lake, Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, Dunedin, Kaikōura, Picton, Wellington, Hawke's Bay, Napier, Huka Falls, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, Auckland

Tour operator:

Luxury Gold

Tour code:

NZLGM24

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

18 - 22

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:
English
Trip Styles:

Luxury, Small Group

From:
$14025 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 09-May-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

See the wonders of New Zealand on this 19-day guided tour. Explore the Southern Alps and see Franz Josef Glacier up close with a Local Expert. On your way to Queenstown, stop by idyllic Arrowtown, where you can choose to take a scenic bike ride along its river, or join a boutique wine tour. Journey through rainforests and meadows to Milford Sound; here, board a catamaran and sail past towering cliffs and gushing waterfalls. See spectacular volcanic craters at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, then travel to Rotorua for a Maori Hangi feast — a flavourful meal cooked underground with geothermal steam. Descend the caves of Waitomo during a exclusive guided experience: see the caverns illuminated by the bioluminescent species. Toast to your travels at a luxurious dinner with a former New Zealand All Black rugby player.

Highlights

  • Queenstown: Take part in a scenic bike ride on the Arrow River Trail and cross the famous Kawarau suspension bridge, home of the the world's first bungy jump.Embark on a boutique wine tasting tour in the heart of the Central Otago wine region.

  • Wellington: Learn more about native flora and fauna on a guided walk through Otari Wiltons Bush, the only botanic garden in New Zealand, dedicated to native plants. The walk starts at the ‘Waharoa’ and heads through the Fernery and then down to the creek, where you are likely to spot some Tuna. It’s also a haven for native birds including the Kereru and Tui. A highlight of the walk is a Rimu tree estimated to be over 800 years old.

  • Hokitika: Visit the coastal town of Hokitika, where you’ll find stunning scenery and a cool, arty vibe. Hear about its rich history, from the discovery of New Zealand jade through the many tales from the gold rush in the 1860s.

  • Milford Sound: Immerse yourself in nature with a guided walk along a stunning section of Milford Track, one of the most breathtaking walks in the world. Learn about its wildlife and heritage while you traverse beach forest and bubbling rivers as you pass along its route.

  • Fiordland National Park: Embark on a serene cruise on Lake Manapouri where you can marvel at plummeting waterfalls and see countless coves and beaches dotted along its shore. See the magnificent scenery of the Fiordland National Park with its forest-clad mountains and islands.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Welcome To Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Montreal Christchurch.

Meals Included: No Meals

Your New Zealand luxury tour begins by private car to your boutique hotel located in the heart of Christchurch and just minutes from North Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Pay a visit to the blooms at the Botanic Gardens or ride the Christchurch Tram before meeting your Travel Concierge where you’ll raise a glass to a grand journey.

Day 2 : Christchurch To Franz Josef

Location: Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef Glacier

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Te Waonui Forest Retreat Franz Josef.

Meals Included: No Meals, Breakfast, Dinner

Embark on one of the world's greatest scenic railway journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train to the small village of Arthur's Pass. In Franz Josef, your eco-friendly retreat nestled in the wilderness welcomes.

Day 3 : The Mighty Franz Josef Glacier Relaxed Start

Location: Franz Josef Glacier

Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel

Accommodation Name: Te Waonui Forest Retreat Franz Josef.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, No Meals, Breakfast

Immerse yourself in the grand natural surroundings traversing the brilliant blue ice and deep crevasses of Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk with a Local Expert.

Day 4 : Romantic Arrowtown And On To Queenstown

Location: Franz Josef Glacier, Arrowtown, Queenstown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: St. Moritz Queenstown.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cruise down the Haast River in a jet boat basking in the beauty of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. Visit the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown before arriving at your hotel in Queenstown, offering expansive views across Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Day 5 : Explore Queenstown Relaxed Start

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: St. Moritz Queenstown.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take a scenic bike ride on the Arrow River Trail or sample the Central Otago region's best Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc on a boutique wine tour.

Day 6 : Queenstown At Leisure Relaxed Start

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: St. Moritz Queenstown.

Meals Included: Dinner

Queenstown’s adventure culture is yours to experience. Take a Locally Available Experience jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River, or whitewater raft down the Kawarau River. In the evening, dine at one of Queenstown’s exclusive restaurants.

Day 7 : Queenstown To Milford Sound

Location: Queenstown, Mirror Lake, Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Milford Sound Lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Journey to Milford Sound through Fiordland National Park. View Mirror Lakes, the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel and Cleddau Valley en route to the dramatic Chasm.

Day 8 : Milford Track Walk And Milford Sound Cruise Relaxed Start

Location: Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Milford Sound Lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take a guided walk on Milford Track through pristine lakes, sky-scraping mountain peaks, glaciers and deep valleys. Bask in the spectacular scenery of Milford Sound aboard a catamaran before dining at Pio Pio Restaurant.

Day 9 : Milford Sound To Dunedin

Location: Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, Dunedin

Accommodation: Lodge, Hotel, Lodge

Accommodation Name: Distinction Dunedin .

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner

Take a scenic journey from Fiordland National Park through rolling green pastures before arriving in Dunedin. Your heritage hotel welcomes you with a cozy atmosphere in the city center. Dine on favorites such as surf and turf, braised lamb, catch of the day, or other modern twists on traditional local dishes at Parcels Restaurant.

Day 10 : Distillery Tour And Dunedin At Leisure

Location: Dunedin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Distinction Dunedin .

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore the flavors of Dunedin on a guided tour and tasting at Dunedin Craft Distillers. Venture next door for a special Chocolate tasting journey. View Dunedin’s sites or venture to the dramatic coastline.

Day 11 : Dunedin To Christchurch

Location: Dunedin, Christchurch

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Montreal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel up the coast though the towns of Oamaru and Timaru to Christchurch to uncover the city’s highlights on a fascinating sightseeing tour. Sample the best of the city over dinner at Polo Bar and Restaurant.

Day 12 : Christchurch To Wellington Relaxed Start

Location: Christchurch, Kaikōura, Picton, Wellington

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: QT Wellington.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel the dramatic rugged coastline to the whale-watching hub of Kaikoura and onto the seaside town of Picton. Cruise on Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Strait to Wellington where you’ll get acquainted with the city on an illuminating tour. Unwind this evening with a drink in your hotel’s Lobby Lounge, admiring its famous art collection.

Day 13 : Wellington Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Location: Wellington

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: QT Wellington.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Personalise your day discovering the stunning waterfront and hidden lanes of Wellington. Or, take a guided walk through Otari Wiltons Bush. This evening is free for you to dine at any of the city’s restaurants.

Day 14 : Wellington To Hawke's Bay

Location: Wellington, Hawke's Bay

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Porters Boutique Hawke's Bay.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Wind your way through the pastoral dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand’s Art Deco capital and world-renowned wine country. This evening, savor a tasting and dinner at family-owned Craggy Range Winery in the shadow of Te Mata Peak.

Day 15 : Exploring Napier Relaxed Start

Location: Hawke's Bay, Napier, Hawke's Bay

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Porters Boutique Hawke's Bay.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take in Napier’s art deco architecture with a Local Expert in a chauffeur-driven vintage car. A decadent dinner awaits at Malo.

Day 16 : Geothermal Rotorua

Location: Hawke's Bay, Huka Falls, Rotorua

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Pullman Rotorua.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Discover Waimangu Volcanic Valley’s volcanic craters, hot water springs, steaming geothermal features and a wide array of birds before arriving at your five-star hotel overlooking Lake Rotorua.

Day 17 : The Sights Of Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Pullman Rotorua.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Unveil the Californian Coastal Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest and go behind the scenes on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a kiwi bird nursery and hatchery. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at Te Puia. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a cultural performance and dinner.

Day 18 : Waitomo And Auckland

Location: Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, Auckland

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: QT Auckland.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a private walk through Waitomo’s underground caves lit up by glow worms. In Auckland you're treated to dinner with one of New Zealand’s famous former All Black rugby players.

Day 19 : Farewell Auckland

Location: Auckland

Meals Included: Breakfast

After one final breakfast, say farewell to your Christchurch to Auckland luxury tour as you are chauffeured to Auckland Airport.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    As detailed in itinerary.

  • Additional Services

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight.

  • Fully Guided

    You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas

  • Meals

    As detailed in itinerary.

What's Not Included

Check out our Q&As

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As detailed in itinerary.

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    Each guest can bring a single bag measuring no more than 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. (23kg). You can also bring one hand luggage bag that is no bigger than 12”x11”x6” (30x28x14cm) to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment. Hand luggage cannot have wheels or a telescopic handle. If you wish to bring a second item of luggage, please request this at time of booking. Additional charges will apply.

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Ensure you have a valid passport for all the countries you will visit or travel through; many countries require your passport to be valid for a longer period than the length of your stay (usually a minimum of 6 months), so check what applies to your itinerary. You might also need to obtain visas (depending on your nationality). Talk to your Embassy if you are unclear about what documentation you require. It is a good idea to have copies of your passport details, insurance policy, visas and credit card numbers, keeping them separate from the originals and perhaps leaving an additional copy with someone at home.

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    A max size of group is 22 guests.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking tour guide on this tour.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.

  • Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?

    We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.

  • What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?

    A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.

  • Who travels with Luxury Gold?

    We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.

  • What is the role of the Well-Being Director?

    Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Majesty of the Rockies

21-Jun-2023

The itinerary was fantastic, starting in Banff at the beautiful Fairmont hotel, it set the scene for the next week. As we travelled in the coach surrounded by magnificent snow topped mountains, everyone getting excited when a black bear or elk was spotted! Standing on the glacier with the Columbian Ice Fields above , was magical. Then, on board the Rocky Mountaineer from Kamloops back to Vancouver, was very relaxing. Finishing our trip at the beautiful Douglas hotel was a lovely way to end what was a most memorable trip. Thank you *Personal Information removed by Feefo* and Luxury Gold. Will go home with fantastic memories of a very special part of the world

Trusted Customer  

Ultimate Italy

26-Jun-2023

Trip itinerary was all that we expected. We were treated like royalty at every turn. Our consierge *Personal Information removed by Feefo* was the most loving, caring person that I’ve ever seen, she accomodated our many needs flawlessly and conscientiosly, including special care for those amongst us who had trouble managing the difficult walking conditions which we encountered.She was a true professional and made us feel loke family. Her humor and social skills got everyone together as one .I don’t know how much you pay her, but it isn’t enough.

Trusted Customer  

Spain and Portugal In Style

15-Jun-2023

The guides were amazing, the hotels very nice, the bus was extremely comfortable. Some of the bus days were rather long. Our concierge guide, *personal info removed by Feefo* was beyond terrific. He anticipated needs, was so kind and very organized. Never a misstep

Dates & Availability

Instant Booking Available

Monday - Friday

Dec 02, 2024 - Dec 20, 2024
$14025 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Monday - Friday

Jan 20, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
$14025 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Monday - Friday

Feb 17, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
$14025 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Sunday

Dec 03, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$15430 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Sunday

Jan 21, 2026 - Feb 08, 2026
$15430 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Sunday

Feb 18, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$15430 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Sunday

Mar 11, 2026 - Mar 29, 2026
$15430 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

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.

award icon

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.

atal icon

Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


Similar Tours