Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive Papeete & Transfer to Moorea
Transfer: Papeete to Moorea
Hotel: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort (4 Star Rating)
Situated on the edge of a magnificent lagoon, with amazing views toward the island of Tahiti, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort features 111 luxurious bungalows built over the water, on the beachfront or surrounded by landscaped gardens.
Completely renovated with harmonious colors, refined and brightly coloured design as well as modern furnishings, the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort provides an authentic cultural mix. Travelers can experience the joys of water sports, explore an island sheltered by incredible coconut plantations and taste the relaxing pleasures of the all-new LeSpa.
![]()
Day 2: Half Day Moorea Food AdventureSlip into the flip-flops of a Polynesian, warm up your taste buds and join us for a half day of discovery and nibbling around Moorea!
'Tama'a' means to eat in Tahitian and that is exactly what you will do with Heimata. Tahitian cuisine draws on three cultures that intertwine and inspire each other: Tahitian, French and Chinese. During this culinary tour you will savor the unique flavors of local specialties in places where the locals love to eat. A minimum of 6 to 8 tastings, depending on the season and availability.
Come huunnnngry !!
Day 3: Full Day Outrigger Lagoon Tour with LunchEmbark on a motorized outrigger canoe for a full day lagoon tour. In a small group, away from the crowd, you will discover the island of Moorea, its landscapes and lagoon. Do not miss the famous Cook's Bay, meet the stingrays and black tip sharks, snorkel in a beautiful coral garden. It is to the sound of ukulele that your Polynesian guide will lead you to a nice white sand beach, where a tasty lunch will be served, feet in-the-water. Enjoy the afternoon with a walk on the motu or a swim in the turquoise waters of the lagoon before returning to your hotel.
Day 4: Tahiti to the Cook IslandsTransfer: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort to Papeete Airport
Hotel: Pacific Resort Rarotonga (4 Star Rating)
Pacific Resort Rarotonga is located on the eastern coast of the island on the edge of the Muri Lagoon, an idyllic place to stay for any leisure getaway. The resort is set away from the main road and island traffic, spread out over 5 and half acres of tropical flora and fauna. The property is within walking distance of many small retail stores that offer locally produced crafts, apparel, and souvenirs as well as restaurants. Amongst the manicured luxurious gardens is the intimate collection of 64 studio rooms, one and two bedroom units and villas, situated in a poolside, garden, or beachfront location.
![]()
Day 5: Half Day Island Discovery Tour & Progressive DinnerStart your holiday in the Cook Islands with an orientated cultural tour of scenic Rarotonga in a modern air-conditioned coach. Explore the history and culture of the Cook Island people in the company of your qualified, friendly tour guides.
Follow the roads and paths used by our ancestors dating back to 1100AD; visit a sacred marae (ancient gathering place for royalty) and explore historical sites once inhabited by our people.
Learn where the best snorkelling spots are located in Rarotonga, see why the coconut tree is known as the Tree of Life.Leave behind the familiar surroundings of your resort and venture out to local villages to experience true Cook Islands cuisine, hospitality and the real spirit of culture & lifestyle, when you visit with locals in their homes! Enjoy a Progressive Three Course Dinner, where each course is hosted in a different local home.
Walkthrough the tropical garden at the home of your first host, who serves your 'first course' for the night. Then it is off to enjoy your "main course", where you will be treated to a buffet feast, similar to what you would expect at a large Cook Islands family gathering. Then, your "dessert" host will delight you with local sweets, fruit as well as tea and Atiu Island brewed coffee. When enjoying your meals at each home, you will be delighted by the sounds of local ukuleles, guitar and voices of the small string band that will accompany you throughout your local dining experience.
Day 6: The Cook Islands at LeisureDay 7: Full Day Excursion to AitutakiThe day starts with a transfer from your Rarotonga accommodation and a 40 minute flight to Aitutaki. On descent, the stunning colours of the lagoon come into view and this is usually where everyone has their phone against the windows - capturing the magical landscape below.
On arrival at Aitutaki, take a 45 minute tour of the island by "Les Truck" taking in views of inland plantations and the main villages. Then the highlight of the day. The renowned Vaka Cruise - six hours of cruising the magnificient blue lagoon aboard the Polynesian styled vaka Titi-ai-Tonga. Visit three (Moturakau, Akaiami, One Foot Island) small motu (islets) fringing the lagoon with time for snorkelling at each one. Experience the solitude of pristine white sand beaches and warm crystal clear water.
Highlights include the iconic One Foot Island (Tapuaetai) and Akaiami - where giant TEAL flying boats used to stopover for refuelling on the famous Coral Route between Fiji, Samoa and Tahiti.
Lunch is served on board. A delicious medley of barbecued pelagic fish steaks served with a variety of fresh salads and tropical fruit all sourced from local farmers. Lunch is accompanied by complimentary tea, coffee, and water, and a cash bar for wine, beer, champagne, and soft drinks is available. The day ends with an arrival back in Rarotonga at 5.30pm and a transfer back to your accommodation.
Day 8: The Cook Islands to AucklandDay 9: Arrive in AucklandTransfer: Auckland Airportto Auckland - City Centre
Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)
Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.
Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.
Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.
![]()
Day 10: Full Day Auckland Best of Both Worlds TourLet Bush and Beach take you on a day tour to experience the best of Auckland sightseeing. We combine an Auckland city tour in the morning with an afternoon nature tour to the black sand beach and rainforest at Piha - a day of variety and a great introduction to Auckland and New Zealand.
Your morning Auckland city tour is designed to explore the history and sights of the city. Discover the Maori history of the city and as see what makes our city a vibrant place to live. Auckland City is built around the beautiful Waitmata harbour and it is known as the "City of Sails". This city tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Mount Victoria in Devonport and Westhaven marina. There is also a stop at a cafe by a beautiful beach and lots of photo opportunities all day.
Your afternoon eco tour is spent in the Waitakere Ranges. In just 30 minutes you leave behind the bustle of the city and step into the tranquility of the rainforest. Travel to the Arataki Centre, an information centre built high on the ridge of the Waitakere Ranges. From here you get breathtaking panoramic views across the rainforest to Auckland's two harbours. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area. Continue on to the lush rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns and view New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and silver ferns.
Move on to experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand of Piha beach beneath your feet as you stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer. The perfect Auckland day trip. During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits and tea and coffee or juice.
Day 11: Full Day Taste of Waiheke TourWaiheke Island boasts 92 km's of pristine beaches, stunning coastal headlands, wineries, olive groves and seaside villages and is approximately a 40-minute cruise from Downtown Auckland. One of New Zealand's most popular destinations, Waiheke Island has been rated as one of the top island escapes in the world. This best-selling culinary experience visits four iconic vineyards and artisanal producers. Highlights include: Two-course lunch and glass of wine at Batch Winery, Award-winning wine at Mudbrick Vineyard, Olive oil tasting at Allpress Olive Groves and Beer tasting at The Heke Kitchen Brewery & Distillery (vineyards may change without notice)
Day 12: Auckland to Hobbiton, the Waitomo Caves & RotoruaThis morning you will be collected from your accommodation for an exciting journey in a spacious mini coach, with comfortable leather seating and legroom. Through your windows you will be treated to views of New Zealand's iconic farmland and Waikato Dairy country. During the day you will visit the Waitomo caves known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glow-worms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history. You will also visit the Hobbiton Movie set. This movie set has the feeling of being a real historic village, and is fascinating to lovers of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies as well as people who have not seen the movies. In 2009, Sir Peter Jackson returned to film The Hobbit trilogy, and he left behind the beautiful movie set you’ll see today. Following your guided tour you will finish your Hobbiton Movie Set experience with a refreshing beverage from the Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ - Lunch today will be at Hobbiton - After experiencing two of New Zealand's Most Iconic attractions we will take you Rotorua with it's active geysers and thermal activity and rich cultural Heritage. You will arrive at your accommodation between 4pm and 5pm.
Hotel: Pullman Rotorua (5 Star Rating)
Pullman Rotorua is located in the city and is only moments away from the lakefront. It is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud, natural hot springs, and magical forests. The hotel has 130 rooms and suites, a gym, Executive Lounge, vibrant restaurant, chic bar, and 4 dynamic meeting rooms with internet connectivity. The perfect base to explore the region's geothermal paradise.
Conveniently located, the Pullman Rotorua is close to Rotorua Lake, Convention Centre, and Government Gardens, perfect for any traveler to this gorgeous, natural locale. Nearby hot springs and geysers make for some of the best natural baths on the planet. Tamaki Maori Village, Polynesian Spa, is just 1km away.
![]()
Day 13: Half Day Rotorua Highlights Tour & Eveni ng at Te Pa Tu The Gathering PlaceLearn about Maori customs, traditions, history and protocols new and old, with a guided tour to Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural centre. These are small group tours no more than 12 people.
Spend the afternoon experiencing Rotorua’s Maori culture and geothermal activity and see how they are intricately entwined. First a guided tour through Te Puia, Rotorua’s premier cultural attraction. This includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house and finally the Pohutu geyser.
Next we visit the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs. A short visit to Kuirau Park to view a recent geothermal eruption site.
Finish the day visiting the pristine and tranquil lakes of our amazing volcanic region, including views of Mount Tarawera with explanation of volcanic and Maori history.Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pa (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre.
Te Pa Tu shares Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.
Winter: Tu Te Ihi includes the time in the earth’s cycle when Matariki stars are high and bright in winter skies. Te Ihi references the energy and passion stirred by the Matariki cluster and the promise they herald.
These can include roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember warmed kumara and restorative kawakawa tea.
Torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to a lavish but relaxed four course feast. Hangi remains hero but it shares the table with lesser-known Maori delicacies, prepared fusion style.
Wagyu pincanha, Watercress chimichurri, taro gratin – even kumara ice-cream - each dish is inspired by or infused with traditional ingredients, stories, or cooking techniques.
Whether dining al fresco or in our wharekai (dining room) we celebrate the spirit of hakari (feasting) and of Aotearoa, New ZealandFeast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pa (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre.
Te Pa Tu shares Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.
Summer: Tu Te Ra - Across this lunar phase, the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tu Te Ra celebrates abundant harvest and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Maori warfare and peace.
These can include roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember warmed kumara and restorative kawakawa tea.
Torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to a lavish but relaxed four course feast. Hangi remains hero but it shares the table with lesser-known Maori delicacies, prepared fusion style. Wagyu pincanha, Watercress chimichurri, taro gratin – even kumara ice-cream - each dish is inspired by or infused with traditional ingredients, stories, or cooking techniques.
Whether dining al fresco or in our wharekai (dining room) we celebrate the spirit of hakari (feasting) and of Aotearoa, New Zealand
Day 14: Rotorua to Queenstown & Dinner at the Skyline GondolaTransfer: Rotorua - City Centre to Rotorua Airport
Transfer: Queenstown Airportto Queenstown - City Centre
Hotel: Crowne Plaza Queenstown (4 Star Rating)
The magic of Queenstown is something that can’t be explained, only experienced. If you haven’t visited yet, it’s time to book your flights. Winter is the most magical time to visit Queenstown and as one of the top ski hotels, Crowne Plaza Queenstown is the perfect choice.The moment you get off the plane and look around, your worries will melt away. Whether your trip is a short weekend away or a couple of weeks long, there is plenty to keep you entertained, inspired and relaxed.Crowne Plaza Queenstown sits in the heart of Queenstown, enjoying panoramic views over The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake.Just across the road is Steamer Wharf where you will find great dining, bars and entertainment. Alternatively, you can depart from here for a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship. From luxurious bedding to spacious accommodation, we know the importance of a great night’s sleep. Every room has its own private balcony or courtyard and many enjoy beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu or The Remarkables.We provide the best facilities to ensure you have everything you need to make the most of your stay. Services include valet parking, business centre, fully equipped fitness centre, guest laundry, ski/bike storage, 24 hour room service and babysitting on request. threesixty Restaurant is one of Queenstown’s best eateries. Our expert chefs use only the freshest produce to create mouth-watering local dishes.
![]()
Marvel at the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Sit back and relax as the best views in the region unfold before your eyes and the Gondola carries you 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak. En route you will enjoy a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, and over Queenstown. On arrival purpose-built viewing platforms and outdoor terraces provide great photo opportunities. Then enjoy the famous Taste of New Zealand buffet which offers delectable fresh seafood, salads, roast meats, and delicious desserts, while the panoramic view from the windows will captivate you.
Day 15: Full Day Excursion to Milford SoundThis Milford Sound day tour was established in 1994 and is a top-rated small group Milford Experience. It allows guests to escape the crowds and offer a truly unique day, showcasing this world famous region.
On this full-day tour to Milford Sound enjoy guided commentary touring to and from Milford Sound with our experienced guides. These small group tours give guests the ability to get to know the driver and each other, creating a more personal and memorable experience.
Once in Milford Sound, join a stunning 1-hr 45-min small boat nature cruise on the fiord - see waterfalls, fur seals, penguins, and occasionally dolphins. Enjoy fun and informative commentary from your nature guide, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track visits away from the crowds.
Enjoy custom made, 16 seat, glass roof Mercedes touring vehicles. This is business class travel with extended legroom, leather interior and panoramic windows for the best views.
Travelling to Milford is a 12-13 hour day from Queenstown. The smaller vehicles give the opportunity to stay away from the crowds as well as more flexibility with where we stop on the journey.
Day 16: Full Day in Queenstown at LeisureDay 17: Depart from QueenstownTransfer: Queenstown - City Centre to Queenstown Airport
