Independent Naturally New Zealand with Sydney
Independent Naturally New Zealand with Sydney
Independent Naturally New Zealand with Sydney
16 Days Starting in Sydney, Australia and ending in Queenstown, New Zealand
Visiting: Sydney, Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IPN3-2025
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Independent Naturally New Zealand with Sydney" tour, exploring the vibrant landscapes and iconic landmarks of Australia and New Zealand. Begin your adventure in Sydney, Australia's largest city, where you can marvel at the Sydney Opera House and relax on Bondi Beach. Fly to New Zealand to discover Auckland's bustling streets and Rotorua's geothermal wonders. Visit the enchanting Hobbiton movie set and experience the glow of Waitomo Caves. In Wellington, enjoy a tram ride through the capital's highlights. Explore Christchurch and take a nature cruise in Akaroa to spot rare wildlife. Conclude your trip in Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of the World," with a breathtaking Milford Sound cruise. With comfortable accommodations and daily breakfasts, this tour offers a perfect blend of guided sightseeing and leisure time to explore at your own pace.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Sydney,Australia
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
ARRIVE IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA• Welcome to Australia’s largest city, Sydney. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Your Local Host is available to answer questions and make suggestions for sightseeing and dining.(B)
Day 2: Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY• Enjoy a morning guided sightseeing tour which includes a photo stop at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Then, visit Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches. The remainder of the day is yours to explore. (B)Today's I-Time TipsYou may want to enjoy a cruise on Sydney Harbour to admire stunning views of the city from the water or visit Taronga Zoo to see some of Australia’s native animals, such as koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses. Other options include exploring the shops of Darling Harbour, travel to the top of Sydney Tower for amazing views of the city below or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Day 3: Sydney
Location: Sydney
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sydney
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY• Enjoy a full day at leisure in this beautiful city. (B)Today's I-Time TipsWith you free time today, why not see the city from new heights with a climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge or discover Sydney’s storied past on the Rocks Pub Tour. You may also choose to shop for souvenirs, explore the restaurants of Barangaroo, or take a ferry to nearby Manly Beach.
Day 4: Sydney,Auckland,New Zealand
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYDNEY–AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND• Fly from Sydney to Auckland, New Zealand. The rest of the day is at your leisure.(B)
Day 5: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: Adina Auckland Britomart
Meals Included: Breakfast
AUCKLAND• Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour. See bustling Queen Street, the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and historic Parnell Village. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)Today's I-Time TipsYou may choose to travel to the top of Sky Tower for 360-degree views of the city or take the ferry to nearby Waiheke Island for sandy beaches, beautiful scenery, and fabulous local wines. Your Local Host is available to make recommendations and point you in the right direction.
Day 6: Auckland,Waitomo,Hobbiton,Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
AUCKLAND–WAITOMO–HOBBITON–ROTORUA • Travel via motorcoach south to visit Waitomo for an illuminating boat trip through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Then, tour the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. • Continue on to Rotorua. (B,L)
Day 7: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: Distinction Hotel Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
ROTORUA • Guided sightseeing includes a visit to The National Kiwi Hatchery, Agrodome, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry and to Te Puia, where you’ll explore this geothermal wonderland. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or join in an optional excursion. (B)Today's I-Time TipsChoose to join an optional Māori (indigenous Polynesian people) cultural performance and Hangi dinner (roasted meats and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones). Other options include a relaxing soak in one of the therapeutic pools at the Polynesian Spa, a magical treetop walk through the Redwoods, or a helicopter tour to see this scenic region by air.
Day 8: Rotorua,Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
ROTORUA–WELLINGTON • Fly to Wellington, capital of New Zealand. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to start exploring this vibrant city. (B)
Day 9: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Accommodation Name: Atura Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
WELLINGTON • Guided morning sightseeing tour takes you to see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings as well as scenic views from the top of Mount Victoria. Take in the beauty of the Wellington Botanical Gardens, then drive around the rugged Wellington coastline, discovering hidden bays and some of Wellington’s most popular beaches. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)Today's I-Time TipsDuring your free time, you may want to visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, where interactive displays tell the story of the country’s great heritage and natural wonders. Other choices include a ride on Wellington’s historic cable car, finding a favorite restaurant on Cuba Street, going behind-the-scenes at Weta Workshop to see how some of the world’s biggest films were made, or exploring one of Wellington’s many outstanding hiking trails.
Day 10: Wellington,Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
WELLINGTON–CHRISTCHURCH • 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. (B)
Day 11: Christchurch. Excursion To Akaroa
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation Name: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
CHRISTCHURCH. EXCURSION TO AKAROA• 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. (B)
Day 12: Christchurch,Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
CHRISTCHURCH–QUEENSTOWN • 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? (B)
Day 13: Queenstown. Excursion To Milford Sound
Location: Milford Sound
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND • 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. (B,L)
Day 14: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN• 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. (B)
Day 15: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation Name: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN • Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. (B)Today's I-Time TipsPerhaps choose a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River, visit a local winery to sample some of the region’s best, take a historic steamship across beautiful Lake Wakatipu, shop for souvenirs, or visit some of the sights used to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Your Local Host will be available to make shopping and dining recommendations.
Day 16: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUEENSTOWN • Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Swissotel Sydney, 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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Local Host
A Local Host is available to answer questions and make suggestions for sightseeing and dining.
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Tram Pass in Wellington
An All Day tram pass is included in Wellington.
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Tram Pass in Christchurch
A tram pass that takes you around to the 'must see' attractions in Christchurch is included.
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Nature Cruise in Akaroa
A nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour is included, offering a chance to see native wildlife.
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Milford Sound Cruise
A Milford Sound cruise is included, offering an unforgettable experience with breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife sightings.
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UNESCO Sites
Visit to the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not listed in the itinerary 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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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as scenic bike riding excursions, helicopter flights, golf, wine tasting, and spa treatments in Queenstown are not included.
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Intra-tour Flights
Intra-tour flights are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily; 2 lunches
UNESCO Sites
Sydney Opera House
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at Swissotel Sydney, Adina Auckland Britomart, Millennium Hotel Rotorua, Atura Wellington, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, and Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront, each offering a unique stay in prime locations across Australia and New Zealand.
Mode of Transport
Travel between destinations via flights and motorcoach, with included tram passes in Wellington and Christchurch for convenient local exploration. Enjoy a nature cruise in Akaroa and a Milford Sound cruise for scenic experiences.
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 kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the nature cruise in Akaroa?
During the nature cruise in Akaroa, you can expect to see New Zealand fur seals, the white-flippered blue penguin, and the Hector’s dolphin, which is one of the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world.
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What activities are available in Queenstown, the 'Adventure Capital of the World'?
In Queenstown, you have the option to engage in various activities such as scenic bike rides, helicopter flights over the Remarkables Mountains, golfing, wine tasting, or relaxing with a spa treatment. You can also enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River or take a historic steamship across Lake Wakatipu.
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What is included in the Milford Sound excursion?
The Milford Sound excursion includes a full-day trip by motorcoach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, passing through Eglinton Valley and the Homer Tunnel into Cleddau Valley. The highlight is a cruise on Milford Sound where you can see dolphins, penguins, and breathtaking waterfalls.
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What can I do during my leisure time in Wellington?
During your leisure time in Wellington, you can visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, ride the historic cable car, explore Cuba Street for dining options, go behind-the-scenes at Weta Workshop, or enjoy one of Wellington’s many hiking trails.
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What unique experience does the tour offer in Rotorua?
In Rotorua, the tour offers a guided visit to The National Kiwi Hatchery, the Agrodome to learn about New Zealand’s sheep industry, and Te Puia to explore the geothermal wonderland. Optional experiences include a Māori cultural performance and Hangi dinner, a soak in the Polynesian Spa, or a helicopter tour.
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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.
Reviews of this operator
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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