North Island: Set between two harbors and dotted with 48 extinct volcanic cones, Auckland is a blend of urban attractions, beaches, water adventure, and geothermal wonders. Board a ferry and cruise the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke, the Island of Wine or to Rangitoto, a black lava volcanic island. Be introduced to the Maori culture and join an eco-safari in search of Bryde’s whales, bottlenose dolphins, and orcas.
South Island: Set on the edge of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is known for adventure and is the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping and jet boating. Other activities include whitewater rafting, zip lining, 4×4 off-roading, paragliding, and skydiving. With over 200 vineyards in the region, enjoy a glass of the local Pinot Noir on a wine tour. Visit Milford Sound, a fiord with cliffs rising from the dark waters, where mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 3000 feet.