New Zealand: Culture, Fly Fishing & Hobbiton (2028)

Price
US$ 5,540
Price
US$ 5,540
March 19 - 31, 2028
Select accommodation type
  • Double/Twin AccommodationAvailable: 8 seats
  • Single Accommodation (+$880 pp)Available: 8 seats

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Customize this Journey
Customize the dates, activities, pace and experiences to match your group’s interests and travel goals.
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13 Days
United States
New Zealand
Max People : 8
Cultural, Private Curated, Youth
Tour Details

Your journey begins with your international flight to New Zealand, arriving in the vibrant harbour city of Auckland. Discover the city’s iconic landmarks, waterfront precincts, and lively atmosphere before venturing into the cinematic landscapes of Hobbiton and the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where Middle-earth comes to life and ancient limestone caverns glow beneath thousands of tiny lights.

Continue south through the rolling countryside of the Waikato, visiting the beautifully designed Hamilton Gardens, the crystal-clear Blue Spring, and the charming town of Tīrau before arriving in Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal and cultural heart.

Experience the power of nature at Te Puia and the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser, then gain insight into New Zealand’s indigenous heritage through an authentic Māori cultural experience. Enjoy a full day of guided fly fishing on one of the country’s renowned trout rivers, surrounded by pristine scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Your adventure continues on the South Island with a stay in Christchurch, where beautifully restored gardens, heritage streets, and riverside attractions reflect the city’s remarkable resilience. Explore the spectacular Banks Peninsula and the French-inspired village of Akaroa, enjoying breathtaking coastal scenery, a scenic harbour cruise, and opportunities to spot native wildlife.

Conclude your journey in the acclaimed Waipara Valley, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, where boutique wineries, guided tastings, and a leisurely vineyard lunch provide the perfect finale before returning to Auckland for your flight home. From unforgettable landscapes and world-famous film locations to Māori culture, exceptional fly fishing, and award-winning wines, this itinerary showcases the very best of New Zealand.

Departure & Return Location

Any major International Airport in the US
(CLICK HERE for the list of airports)

contact info@nordskies.com for quotes from other airports

Departure Time

3 Hours Before Flight Time

Questions

info@nordskies.com

Itinerary

Day 1 & 2 | Sun & Mon, March 19th – 20th, 2028 Travel from the US to Auckland, New Zealand

Depart on your international flight to New Zealand and cross the International Date Line as you make your way to the Southern Hemisphere. Relax onboard and prepare for an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes, vibrant cities and rich Māori culture.

Day 3 | Tue, March 21st, 2028 Arrival in Auckland | Night Market & Welcome Dinner

Day Overview:
  • Arrive in Auckland
  • Hotel check-in
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Visit an Auckland Night Market

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and the gateway to your adventure. After arriving and checking into your hotel, take some time to settle in before meeting your fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner.

Later, visit one of Auckland’s vibrant Night Markets, where international street food, artisan stalls and live entertainment create the perfect introduction to the city’s multicultural character.

Overnight: Auckland

Day 4 | Wed, March 22nd, 2028 Auckland City Discovery

Day Overview:
  • Visit the Sky Tower
  • Guided walking tour
  • Explore Queen Street and Commercial Bay
  • See the historic Ferry Building
  • Stroll along Viaduct Harbour

Begin the day at the iconic Sky Tower for sweeping views across Auckland, the Hauraki Gulf, and the city’s many volcanic cones. It’s the perfect introduction to New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city.

Continue on a guided walking tour through the heart of the city, exploring Queen Street, Commercial Bay, the historic Ferry Building, and lively Viaduct Harbour while discovering how Auckland’s maritime heritage has shaped modern New Zealand.

Overnight: Auckland

Day 5 | Thu, March 23rd, 2028 The Lord of the Rings Adventure & Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Day Overview:
  • The Lord of the Rings filming locations
  • Guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour
  • Traditional Kiwi lunch
  • Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
  • Underground boat cruise

Step into the world of Middle-earth as you travel to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, one of New Zealand’s most famous filming locations. Wander past charming Hobbit Holes, visit The Mill, cross the Double Arched Bridge, and enjoy a drink at the legendary Green Dragon Inn while hearing behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Following a traditional Kiwi lunch, continue to the remarkable Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Drift silently by boat beneath thousands of glowworms that illuminate the ancient limestone caverns, creating one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable natural wonders.

Overnight: Auckland

Day 6 | Fri, March 24th, 2028 Scenic Journey to Rotorua

Day Overview:
  • Visit Hamilton Gardens
  • See the crystal-clear Blue Spring
  • Explore Tīrau
  • Arrive in Rotorua

Travel south through the rolling countryside of the Waikato with visits to the beautifully themed Hamilton Gardens and the crystal-clear Blue Spring, renowned for producing some of the purest water in New Zealand. These scenic stops offer a wonderful introduction to the country’s diverse natural landscapes.

Pause in the charming town of Tīrau, famous for its corrugated iron architecture, local boutiques, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, before continuing to Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal activity and Māori culture.

Overnight: Rotorua

Day 7 | Sat, March 25th, 2028 Geothermal Wonders & Māori Culture

Day Overview:
  • Explore Te Puia
  • See the Pōhutu Geyser
  • Enjoy a Māori cultural experience

Discover the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the spectacular Pōhutu Geyser showcase the immense natural forces that have shaped Rotorua’s unique landscape. Learn about the area’s geological significance while exploring one of New Zealand’s most iconic geothermal parks.

Later, immerse yourself in Māori culture through an authentic cultural experience featuring traditional performances together with demonstrations of carving and weaving. Gain a deeper appreciation of the customs, artistry, and living traditions that remain at the heart of New Zealand’s indigenous heritage.

Overnight: Rotorua

Day 8 | Sun, March 26th, 2028 Guided Fly Fishing Adventure (Optional)

Day Overview:
  • Guided fly fishing experience (Optional)
  • Return to Rotorua

(Optional) Spend the day on one of the region’s renowned trout rivers alongside experienced local guides. Whether you’re trying fly fishing for the first time or refining your technique, enjoy a rewarding day immersed in the pristine landscapes that have made New Zealand one of the world’s premier fly fishing destinations.

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and peaceful native bush, you’ll have the opportunity to cast for wild trout while learning local techniques and gaining insight into the country’s rich angling tradition before returning to Rotorua in the evening.

Overnight: Rotorua

** Fly Fishing is an optional experience and is not included in the trip cost. 

Day 9 | Mon, March 27th, 2028 Fly to Christchurch

Day Overview:
  • Flight to Christchurch
  • Afternoon at leisure

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch blends English heritage with innovative architecture, vibrant public spaces, and easy access to some of the country’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax after your journey or take the opportunity to begin exploring the city’s welcoming cafés, riverside precincts, and charming streets at your own pace.

Overnight: Christchurch

Day 10 | Tue, March 28th, 2028 Christchurch Highlights

Day Overview:
  • Visit the Cardboard Cathedral
  • Stroll through the Botanic Gardens
  • Explore New Regent Street
  • Browse the Riverside Market
  • Walk along the Avon River

Discover Christchurch, a city celebrated for its resilience, innovation, and beautifully restored public spaces. Visit the striking Cardboard Cathedral, wander through the peaceful Botanic Gardens, and explore the colourful boutiques and cafés of New Regent Street, one of the city’s most photographed precincts.

Continue to the lively Riverside Market, where local produce and artisan food stalls showcase the flavours of the region, before enjoying time along the tranquil Avon River, a picturesque setting that perfectly captures Christchurch’s relaxed charm.

Overnight: Christchurch

Day 11 | Wed, March 29th, 2028 Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

Day Overview:
  • Scenic drive across Banks Peninsula
  • Explore Akaroa
  • Harbour cruise
  • Waterfront lunch

Travel across the spectacular Banks Peninsula to the charming French-inspired village of Akaroa. Surrounded by volcanic hills and a sheltered harbour, this picturesque destination is known for its colonial heritage, colourful waterfront, and stunning coastal scenery.

Enjoy a relaxing harbour cruise with opportunities to spot native wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, before savouring a leisurely waterfront lunch. Spend free time exploring boutique shops, local galleries, and inviting cafés before returning to Christchurch.

Overnight: Christchurch

Day 12 | Thu, March 30th, 2028 Waipara Valley Wine Experience

Day Overview:
  • Visit boutique wineries in Waipara Valley
  • Guided wine tastings
  • Vineyard lunch
  • Evening flight to Auckland

Travel to the renowned Waipara Valley, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, celebrated for its cool-climate varietals and family-owned boutique vineyards. Visit carefully selected wineries for guided tastings, learning about the region’s unique terroir while sampling some of the country’s finest wines.

Enjoy a leisurely vineyard lunch before returning to Christchurch Airport for your evening flight to Auckland, where you’ll spend your final night in preparation for your journey home.

Overnight: Auckland

Day 13 | Fri, March 31st, 2028 Fly Home

Transfer to the *Auckland/Christchurch airport* for your international flight home, bringing to a close an unforgettable journey through New Zealand. From exploring the cinematic landscapes of Hobbiton and the glowworm-lit caves of Waitomo to experiencing Māori culture, world-class fly fishing, and the scenic beauty of the South Island, you’ve discovered the remarkable diversity that makes New Zealand one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

End of Tour

*Departure airport (Auckland/Christchurch) will depend on flight schedules and availability. 

Includes/Excludes

Price Includes

  • Roundtrip Airfare
  • Airport Transfers
  • Hotels
  • Breakfast
  • Museum/Historical Site Admission Fees
  • Transportation
  • Tour Guide(s)

Price Excludes

  • Visa Fees
  • Gratuities/Tips
  • Private Expenses Snacks, gifts, shopping, etc.
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Lunch & Dinner (Unless specified in the itinerary)
  • Fly Fishing Experience
Payments

Payment can be made in full or following the payment schedule below:

 Double/Twin
Accommodation
Single
Accommodation
 
Total Price$5,540
per person
$6,420
per person
 
Deposit 1$300.00$300.00On Sign-up
(closes – June 15, 2027)
Deposit 2$1,834.00$2,142.00Due: September 15, 2027
Deposit 3$1,834.00$2,142.00Due: November 15, 2027
Final Balance$1,572.00$1,836.00Due: January 5, 2028
List of Major International US airports

Atlanta (ATL): Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Boston (BOS): Logan International Airport
Chicago (ORD): O’Hare International Airport
Detroit (DTW): Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Houston (IAH): George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Los Angeles (LAX): Los Angeles International Airport
Miami (MIA): Miami International Airport
New York (JFK): John F. Kennedy International Airport
Newark/NYC (EWR): Newark Liberty International Airport
Philadelphia (PHL): Philadelphia International Airport
San Francisco (SFO): San Francisco International Airport
Seattle (SEA): Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Washington D.C. (IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport