New Zealand – Land of the Long White Cloud

March 13–29, 2026

Tour Operator: AHI Travel

Price per person begins at $7,295 

New Zealand’s natural beauty is legendary! From pristine fiords and magnificent mountains to sparkling bays and lush countryside, this exciting,14-night adventure promises lasting memories.

Bask in awe-inspiring scenery as you cruise through Doubtful Sound, New Zealand’s deepest fiord, and ferry through stunning Cook’s Strait between the North and South Islands. Glide past the majestic Southern Alps aboard the celebrated TranzAlpine train, and take an invigorating hike to see the Franz Josef Glacier. Look for whales breaching the waters near Kaikoura and spot beautiful flora and fauna in a serene wildlife sanctuary. 

This well-rounded itinerary also introduces you to vibrant urban life in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, where you’ll enjoy cultural excursions led by local experts that illuminate Māori traditions, legends and history. Other wonderful highlights include a free day in picturesque Queenstown. This active, small-group experience is customized by Principia to include optional services at local Christian Science churches and additional cultural and wildlife experiences. 

Highlights

• Cruise through breathtaking Doubtful Sound within pristine Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 
• Admire the blue-tinted Franz Josef Glacier on a beautiful hike.
• Take in the majestic Southern Alps, golden plains and Arthur’s Pass National Park from the famous TranzAlpine train.
• Delve into Māori legends and treasures on fascinating cultural walking tours in Wellington and Christchurch.
• Savor sweeping vistas of Queenstown aboard an aerial gondola.
• Appreciate the natural splendor of Thunder Creek Falls and the Blue Pools nestled within lush beech forests.
• Soak up Cook Strait’s stunning scenery on a ferry ride between the North and South Islands.
• Relish up-close encounters with local wildlife including adorable kiwi birds. 
• Take the treetop boardwalk among beautiful 300-400 year-old Kauri trees.
• Enjoy a guided bike tour in the picturesque Blenheim countryside, stopping for chocolate and cheese tastings along the way.
• Experience rural New Zealand farming with sheep and sheepdogs.

Activity Level: Active

This ACTIVE program is designed for people who are in good health and can comfortably participate in a demanding daily schedule of physical activities. This itinerary features long, full days of excursions combined with coach or ferry transfers between destinations. Excursions on this program require:

• walking on cobblestones, unpaved paths and/or uneven and slippery surfaces
• getting on/off motor coaches, boats and trains
• climbing in/out of excursion boats
• walking up steep inclines/declines and up and down stairs

Depending on the excursion, more leisurely alternatives may be available.

Trip Includes

Program Overview

• 2 nights in Auckland, New Zealand, at the first-class Grand Millennium Auckland.
• 2 nights in Wellington at the first-class James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Wellington.
• 2 nights in Blenheim at the first-class Carnmore Chateau Marlborough.
• 2 nights in Christchurch at the first-class Rydges Latimer Christchurch
• 2 nights in Franz Josef at the first-class Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.
• 4 nights in Queenstown at the first-class Millennium Hotel Queenstown.
• AHI Connects: Local immersion.
• AHI Sustainability Promise: We strive to make a positive, purposeful impact in the communities we visit.
• Complimentary travel mementos.

Meal Program

• 14 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners.
• Welcome and Farewell Receptions & Dinners to mingle with fellow travelers.

On-site Features

• All transfers in the Land Program: flight, ferry, train and deluxe motor coaches.
• Engaging excursions showcase the local culture, heritage and history.
• Enrichment by Principia Trip Scholar and expert speakers enhances your insight into the region.
• Elective activities and free time to pursue your individual interests.
• Tipping of guides and drivers.
• A personal VOX headset to hear your guide clearly.