New Zealand Luxury Vacation Review: Milford Sound, Rotorua, Queenstown, Auckland, Mount Cook, Three-Week Tour

Each day was a marvelous new experience. Our tour operator's suggestion that we begin our sojourn in Russell was perfect, as it gave us a chance to recuperate and enjoy the relaxation and beauty of the land and water. Every day was memorable for us as we traveled from the north end of the North Island to the south end of the South Island. Particular highlights include the small plane trip to Cape Reinga, the experience at Mount Cook and Lake Tasman and the glacier, and the Milford Sound overnight boat excursion. We enjoyed our exposure to Māori culture, especially as we had two drivers, one at Rotorua who took us to the cultural center, and one who drove us from Auckland to Rotorua, who enlightened us on the history.

On one of the rainy days in Rotorua, we had a unique experience with our eco-guide, who was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing with us the work being done to preserve the subtropical and temperate rainforests. Having time on our own to explore Christchurch was perfect, as it is a very walkable city, and we took advantage of the hop-on-and-off tram. Our hotel accommodations were perfect for having access to the city. In Queenstown, our hotel was like a jewel box, so rich in color and texture, and perfectly situated to allow us walking access to the town and the gardens. Our hotel was simply amazing and the lodgings at Bay of Many Coves were gorgeous. The hotel in Auckland was perfect to provide us with an experience of their culture. The train trip to Christchurch was interesting and relaxing, and we met wonderful local and international travelers.