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Experience the ultimate adventure in Waitomo with breathtaking glowworms, and a visit to Marokopa Falls. Discover underground rafting, the Waitomo Walkway, and stunning New Zealand landscapes in one unforgettable day. Waitomo WELCOME TO TRAVEL TIPS & HIGHLIGHTS ------- Best Time To Travel ------- Summer (Dec - Feb) Spring (Sept - Nov) ------- How to Get Here ------- Drive: Just over 2 hours from Auckland or Rotorua, making it an easy road trip destination. Tours: View our award-winning day tours below. ------- Key Highlights ------- Glowworm Caves. Black Water Rafting. Ruakuri Cave Walk. Aranui Cave: Known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Waitomo Caves Museum. Book Activities, Accommodation & Transport Below THE BEST OF WAITOMO Waitomo is a captivating destination on New Zealand’s North Island, famous for its intricate network of caves, magical glowworms, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of glowworms light up the underground caverns like a starry sky, offering a truly mesmerising experience. Take a boat ride through these tranquil caves or enjoy black water rafting for a more adventurous journey through subterranean rivers. For thrill-seekers, Waitomo offers activities like abseiling, caving, and ziplining, providing the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. Above ground, enjoy the scenic landscapes with lush rolling hills, limestone formations, and beautiful walking trails. Waitomo’s unique blend of adventure and tranquility makes it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience both the natural wonders of New Zealand and exhilarating outdoor activities. Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland Hobbiton & Waitomo Tour, small group, fully-guided day trip. LEARN MORE Hauturu to Honokiwi Hall Ride Prepare to uncover a hidden gem of a ride that awaits your discovery – the Hauturu Road to Honokiwi Hall journey. LEARN MORE AJ's Circuit Embark on an easy going journey with AJ's Circuit, a leisurely addition to the Ruakuri bush walk that promises a peaceful ride through the enchanting landscapes of Waitomo. LEARN MORE Waitomo Caves 1-Kilometer-Long Zipline Tour Enjoy a kilometer-long guided zip-line adventure at the striking Waitomo Caves. Learn to use your own gear, fly high across 10 zip-lines, and take in beautiful views of the limestone country. LEARN MORE 1km Zipline Tour You will meet your friendly guide on site who will harness you up and look after all your needs. You'll start with a safety lesson beginning on the shorter ziplines before accessing the longer, higher and faster ziplines. LEARN MORE Waitomo: Ruakuri Cave 1.5 Hour Guided Tour Discover the spectacular Ruakuri Cave, the longest of Waitomo’s underground caves, on a 1.5-hour walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. LEARN MORE Waitomo to Otorohanga Return Ride You can embark on an e-bike journey from Waitomo Caves to the charming town of Otorohanga along the scenic Waitomo Valley Road. LEARN MORE Private Black Labyrinth Waitomo Black Water Rafting Adventure Thrilling underground rafting adventure through the mysterious Waitomo Caves. Navigate exhilarating rapids and cascading waterfalls on a unique black water rafting experience. LEARN MORE Enchanting Waitomo: Ride, Revel and Radiate on our eBikes At Waitomo Ebikes adventure is personal, which is why we adapt to your pace. Traverse the awesome landscapes of New Zealand, venturing into uncharted territories that few get to experience. LEARN MORE Waitomo Glowworm and Ruakuri Caves Tour from Auckland Experience the magical moment on the Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Caves guided tour, with a boat ride showing thousands of twinkling glowworms known as one of the New Zealand's best natural attractions. LEARN MORE Private Black Labyrinth Waitomo Black Water Rafting Adventure BOOK NOW TIPS & GUIDES What to do in Waitomo? Waitomo is famous for its natural wonders, particularly its incredible caves, geological formations, and cultural significance. Waitomo: A Day of Thrills, Glowworms, and Waterfalls Arriving in Waitomo felt like reaching a different world—a place where adventure is built into the very landscape. New Zealand is a paradise

Explore the top Queenstown Tours. Local tour guides enrich your journey with historical and cultural insights in and around Queenstown. Experience a wine tour through award-winning vineyards, tasting some of the finest wines the region has to offer. Don't miss the majestic Milford Sound Tour from Queenstown, and Mt Cook Aoraki day tours that capture the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour BOOK NOW < Queenstown Home THE BEST QUEENSTOWN TOURS & OPERATORS Queenstown offers an exceptional array of tours that capture the essence of New Zealand's South Island. Whether a scenic day trip to Milford Sound or exploring the iconic filming locations of The Lord of the Rings, there's an adventure for every interest. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in the Queenstown Wine Trail, sampling renowned local pinot noirs and other varietals at esteemed vineyards like Amisfield and Gibbston Valley. For those with a penchant for craft beverages, the Queenstown Beer Tours provide a delightful journey through the region's burgeoning craft beer scene, complete with tastings and insights from local brewers. Nature lovers can venture to the tranquil shores of Lake Tekapo or the rugged landscapes of Mt. Cook, while adrenaline seekers might opt for a thrilling jet boat ride or a serene lake cruise. With so many diverse experiences, Queenstown tours promise unforgettable memories against a backdrop of stunning alpine scenery. Premium Milford Sound Small-Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch No.1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company - small group, fully-guided day trip combines the amazing return journey to Milford Sound. LEARN MORE Queenstown Original Wine Tour Experience the true flavour of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards, each hosting our small group tours for wine tasting. LEARN MORE From Queenstown: Lord Of The Rings Tour to Glenorchy Take a magical journey into Middle Earth and explore the Lord of the Rings film locations from Queenstown to Glenorchy and beyond LEARN MORE TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour Enjoy a relaxing scenic cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship across Lake Whakatipu and afternoon tea at Walter Peak High Country Farm. LEARN MORE From Queenstown: Arrowtown Wānaka Highlights Tour Our most popular sightseeing tour from Queenstown: historic Arrowtown, scenically stunning Wānaka, the Wānaka Tree and the world-famous Cardrona Hotel. LEARN MORE From Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip Cruise across Lake Manapouri, coach over the breathtaking Wilmot Pass, and discover Doubtful Sound on a 3-hour cruise. LEARN MORE Milford Sound Bus-Cruise-Fly from Queenstown Join us on this fully guided, small group day tour from Queenstown to the world-renowned Milford Sound; the crowning jewel of Fiordland. LEARN MORE Te Anau to Queenstown via Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch Milford Sound Tour & Cruise, this small group, fully-guided day trip begins with a pickup from your hotel lobby in one of our luxury Mercedes-Benz vans from Te Anau and drop-off at your hotel in Queenstown. LEARN MORE Milford Sound Fly | Explore | Fly Round trip scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound with landing. Approximately 2 hours on the ground in Milford Sound. LEARN MORE Premium Milford Sound Small group tour from Queenstown - Bus-Cruise-Fly Join us on this fully guided, small group day tour from Queenstown to the world-renowned Milford Sound; the crowning jewel of Fiordland. LEARN MORE Craft Beer Brewery and Food Tour Explore Queenstown's Best Brews on an Award-Winning Craft Beer Adventure! LEARN MORE Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Te Anau This small group, fully-guided day trip combines the amazing return journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruise aboard the No.1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company, LEARN MORE Arrowtown, Wānaka 6 Hour Tour from Queenstown Sightseeing tour from Queenstown, taking in historic Arrowtown, stunning Wānaka, the Crown Range road, the Wānaka tree and Cardrona Hotel. LEARN MORE Mt Cook Tour & Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo from Queenstown Mt Cook Tour & Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo, this small group, fully guided day trip combines all of the key highlights of Mt Cook! LEARN MORE Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown Explore the beautiful fjord of Milford Sound on a full day tour from Queenstown or Te Anau including a sightseeing cruise. LEARN MORE FULL DAY in Middle Earth Join our Lord of the Rings “Nerds”, aka Tour guides, who have superior knowledge on all things “Rings” LEARN MORE Mt Cook Small-Group Tour from Queenstown Mt Cook fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the time and options to enjoy extra activities of your choice. LEARN MORE Mt. Cook Fly | Explore | Fly Round trip scenic flight from Queenstown to Mt. Cook Airport with landing. Approximately 6 hours on the ground in Mt. Cook National Park. LEARN MORE Craft Beer Brewery Tour Interact with Local Brewers and Savour Queenstown's Finest Craft Beers! LEARN MORE Milford Sound Coach | Cruise | Fly Coach trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound with a nature cruise through Milford Sound with our partner's Southern Discoveries and a scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown! LEARN MORE Skippers Canyon Bespoke Tour Come and take a journey along one of New Zealands most breathtaking roads, from Queenstown into Skippers canyon. LEARN MORE Mt Cook Bus Tour & Heli Hike Combo from Queenstown This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights with a guided bus tour to Mt Cook, Heli Hike on Tasman Glacier. LEARN MORE Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Small Group Tour Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Tour, this small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Hooker Valley Hike. LEARN MORE Queenstown Wine & Food Tour A taste of Central Otago’s wine region. For lunch, choose a main meal from the a la carte menu that is perfectly matched with a glass of an estate wine. LEARN MORE LOAD MORE Premium Milford Sound Small-Group Tour BOOK NOW TIPS & GUIDES What to Do in Milford Sound When You Don’t Go on a Cruise What can you do in Milford Sound when you don’t go on a cruise? Good news: Milford Sound offers plenty of opportunities to experience > Why are there bras along that fence in Cardrona? Cardrona Bra Fence - adorned with hundreds, if not thousands, of bras - read why > Fun and Exciting Indoor Activities to Enjoy on a Rainy Day in Queenstown Rain in Queenstown doesn't mean the fun has to stop. This bustling town is packed with exciting indoor activities that are perfect for... All Aboard the TSS Earnslaw: A Nostalgic Journey in Queenstown Step back in time with a scenic voyage on the TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake." This iconic century-old steamshi Wine Guide: Vineyards in Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka, & Bannockburn Among the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's South Island, the regions of Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka, and Bannockburn Queenstown Ski Guide: Perfect Peaks for Every Skier Queenstown is a haven for ski enthusiasts of all levels. From family-friendly beginner slopes to thrilling off-piste adventures, the region' A Food Lover's Paradise - Dining in Central Queenstown Queenstown is a culinary treasure trove, offering a diverse array of dining experiences to suit every taste and budget. The Magnificent Routeburn Track - Queenstown Download the AllTrails app Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's majestic Southern Alps, the Routeburn Track is a world-renowned hiking...

Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from Auckland, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This idyllic island is renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class vineyards, and eclectic arts scene. Originally settled by Māori tribes, the island was known for its strategic location and abundant natural resources. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, and the island became a hub for farming and later, a popular holiday destination. Today, Waiheke is celebrated for its unique blend of historical significance and modern charm. How to Waiheke Island The most convenient way to reach Waiheke Island is by ferry from Auckland. The Fullers360 ferry service operates regularly from the downtown Auckland Ferry Terminal, with the journey taking approximately 35-40 minutes. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, helicopter transfers are also available, providing stunning aerial views of the Hauraki Gulf. Local Hotspots and Beaches on Waiheke Island Oneroa Village: The island’s main village is a bustling hub of activity, featuring boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the Waiheke Community Art Gallery and the iconic Oneroa Beach. Palm Beach : Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Palm Beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also has picnic spots and a playground. Onetangi Beach : Stretching over 1.8 kilometers, Onetangi Beach is ideal for long walks, swimming, and beach sports. It’s also home to several beachfront cafes and restaurants. Our Favourite Restaurants Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant : Renowned for its stunning views and gourmet cuisine, Mudbrick offers a fine dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The Oyster Inn : Located in Oneroa Village, this stylish eatery serves fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, complemented by a relaxed ambiance. Casita Miro : Specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, Casita Miro offers a delightful dining experience with an emphasis on shared plates and Spanish flavors. Tantalus Restaurant : Showcasing the diversity of New Zealand’s seasonal ingredients, Head Chef Axel Curtet Latreille offers refined, tantalising dishes with bold flavours and exciting textures. The Heke: A relaxed, family and dog-friendly restaurant where our chefs craft delicious food over glowing wood fires. Stonyridge: À la carte, group bookings, casual dining and wine tastings. The Best Vineyards Waiheke Island is famous for its vineyards, producing some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Key vineyards to visit include: Awaroa Vineyard : Known for organic Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Batch Winery : Offers a range of wines including Pinot Gris and Syrah. Cable Bay Vineyards : Famous for Pinot Gris, Viognier, and Syrah. Casita Miro Vineyard : Specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and hand-crafted wines. Destiny Bay Vineyards : Renowned for Cabernet blends. Goldie Estate : One of the oldest vineyards on the island. Jurassic Ridge : Known for Syrah, Montepulciano, and Pinot Gris. Kennedy Point Vineyard : Waiheke's only certified organic vineyard. Man O' War : Offers a beachfront tasting room. Mudbrick Vineyard : Famous for Merlot and Syrah. Obsidian Vineyard : Known for Bordeaux-style reds. Passage Rock Vineyard : Famous for Reserve Syrah. Poderi Crisci Estate : Italian-inspired vineyard. Stonyridge : Known for Bordeaux-style reds. Tantalus Estate : Offers Bordeaux and Rhone-style reds. Te Motu Vineyard : Produces Bordeaux-style wines. Wild on Waiheke : Features a brewery and outdoor activities. Woodside Hill : Specializes in Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Tours & Activities The Quintessential Wine Tour with Award-Winning Restaurant Lunch Waiheke Island: Tour with Wine Tastings and Restaurant Lunch Waiheke Sunset Wine + Dine Scenic Tour Auckland: Waiheke Island Wine and Food Tasting with Flights Waiheke Island: 30-Minute Scenic Flight Waiheke Island: Full Day Guided History and Heritage Tour Waiheke Island Zipline and Native Forest 3-Hour Tour Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the island’s coastline and hidden coves with kayak and paddleboard rentals available at various beaches. Waiheke Island – Oneroa Art Path Walk Key Events Waiheke Island International Jazz Festival : Held every Easter, this festival attracts top jazz musicians and fans from around the world. Waiheke Wine and Food Festival : Typically held in February, this event celebrates the island’s culinary delights and award-winning wines. Headland Sculpture on the Gulf : A biennial event showcasing contemporary outdoor sculptures along a scenic coastal walkway. Travel Tips Book Ahead : Waiheke is a popular destination, especially during weekends and holidays. Book accommodation, ferry tickets, and restaurant reservations in advance. Arrive Early - for ferry rides! Make sure you set an alarm and give yourself enough travel time back to the ferry terminal. Getting Around : Renting a car or bike is recommended for exploring the island. Alternatively, use the local bus service or taxis. Pack Accordingly : Bring sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes. Layers are advisable as the weather can change quickly. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Waiheke Island is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and perfect for beach activities and outdoor dining. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also excellent times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. PlanGo  is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. Ask our AI Travel Agent for advice or visit our Waiheke Island destination page to book activities, travel and accommodation!

TSS Earnslaw Image Source: Expedia.com Step back in time with a scenic voyage on the TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake." This iconic century-old steamship offers a unique glimpse into Queenstown's rich heritage, combined with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or a family looking for fun, the TSS Earnslaw delivers an unforgettable experience for everyone. A Voyage Through History Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is one of the last remaining coal-fired passenger steamships operating in the southern hemisphere. As you step onto the vintage vessel, you're transported to a bygone era, with its polished brass fittings, gleaming wooden interiors, and the rhythmic chugging of the original steam engine. During the 90-minute round trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm, you can explore the ship's open bridge, watch the stokers at work in the engine room, or simply relax on the deck soaking up the panoramic views. Destination: Walter Peak High Country Farm Arriving at Walter Peak, you're greeted by the charm of rural New Zealand life. This picturesque farm offers an engaging experience for families and those interested in agriculture and animal husbandry. You can participate in sheep shearing demonstrations, get up close with farmyard animals, and even try your hand at wool spinning. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to farm life, ensuring a fun-filled and educational outing. Gastronomic Delights Amidst Nature No visit to Walter Peak is complete without indulging in the renowned gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner. Savor delicious, locally-sourced meats and produce, all grilled to perfection. The meal is complemented by a selection of sumptuous salads and desserts, rounding out a truly Kiwi dining experience. With options to suit all dietary preferences, it’s a feast for the senses with stunning lake views as your backdrop. BOOK - Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour BOOK - Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise BOOK - TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu Planning Your Trip Booking Your Journey : The TSS Earnslaw operates several departures daily, but it's advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can easily purchase tickets online or at the Queenstown waterfront ticket office. Boarding Location : The adventure begins at the Steamer Wharf on Lake Wakatipu, centrally located and easily accessible from anywhere in Queenstown. Make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process. Travel Tips : Even in the warmer months, Lake Wakatipu can be breezy, so carrying a jacket is recommended. Don't forget your camera – the views en route to Walter Peak are absolutely stunning and definitely Instagram-worthy! Visit our Queenstown page for more tours and activities!

Exploring the Vineyards of Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka, and Bannockburn: A Wine Lover's Paradise Central Otago wine region is a wine lover's paradise with stunning mountain views and extensive vineyards. Enjoy a glass of perfectly matched Pinot Noir or a refreshing white wine, each reflecting the unique qualities of this wine-rich area. Book Queenstown's Original Wine Tour QUEENSTOWN'S ORIGINAL WINE TOUR, SINCE 1992 Experience the true flavour of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards, each hosting our small group tours for wine tastings. Enjoy a stroll tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This fun, relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown and gives you the opportunity to explore, get yourself a lunch, or an extra glass of your favourite wine at your leisure, and we'll have you back in town by 5pm. WINE TOUR INCLUDES Courtesy pick up & drop off at selected accommodation or central Queenstown Hosted wine tastings at 3 wineries 12+ wine tastings Underground wine cave tour (subject to availability) Time available for a winery lunch, which you choose from the a la carte menu (at own expense) BOOK NOW > Experience Notable Wineries in Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell Chard Farm impresses with its dramatic entrance and stunning river views. Enjoy a tasting and feel the connection to the landscape. Wet Jacket Wines , located in a historic woolshed, combines history of the region with modern winemaking, offering a unique tasting experience. Peregrine Wines features architecturally impressive settings, enhancing the wine tasting experience with the beauty of the building and the land. Kinross Winery in Gibbston offers cozy cottage accommodations and wine tastings, making it a great place for a full day visit. Mora Wines blends wine tasting with artisan culinary experiences, perfect for gourmet food lovers. Mt Rosa Wines offers a laid-back, rustic tasting room experience in the Gibbston Valley, known for its dry climate and stony soils that enhance the grape flavors. Brennan Wines features a boutique tasting room with personalized experiences and stunning views over the vineyards. Coal Pit Vineyard focuses on educating visitors about sustainable viticulture practices during their intimate tasting sessions. Stop by The Winery in Arrowtown The Winery in Arrowtown, known as one of Zealand’s largest tasting rooms, is a must-visit. With over 1,300 wines, including selections from boutique vineyards, it’s the perfect place to taste and discover new favorites. Whether you choose a taste, half, or full glass, you're sure to find a wine you love. Wānaka ’s Vibrant Wine Scene Wānaka 's landscape significantly influences its wines. The vineyards, nestled among mountains and near Lake Wakatipu, thrive in a microclimate perfect for viticulture. This area is celebrated for its superb Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. Explore Further: Bannockburn and Beyond Head to the Bannockburn region, about 60 kilometers from Queenstown. Famous for its robust Pinot Noir, the climate and soil here are ideal for vine growth. Wineries like Terra Sancta and Felton Road Wines are committed to quality and environmental stewardship, producing some of the most respected wines in the region. Additional Esteemed Wineries Two Paddocks, owned by actor Sam Neill, offers exclusive organic Pinot Noir tastings by appointment. Domain Road Vineyard is known for its welcoming atmosphere and educational tastings, perfect for learning more about wine. Gate 20 Two Vineyard provides personalized tours and tastings in a small, intimate setting. Desert Heart offers tastings set against stunning vistas, making each sip a memorable part of your journey. Te Kano Estate features modern architecture and a range of tasting options, including food pairings. Mt Difficulty Wines is celebrated for its panoramic views and comprehensive tasting room and one of the best vineyards in Queenstown. Special Attractions Visit the Stoaker Room near Cromwell for a unique blend of local cuisine and wine, or take a trip to Walter Peak to explore more of Queenstown's food scene. If time permits, delve deeper into the award-winning offerings and the rich history of the Central Otago wine region. This comprehensive tour not only offers a glimpse into the art of winemaking but also provides a sensory journey through one of New Zealand's most picturesque landscapes, making it an essential experience for any wine enthusiast. PlanGo  is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. View and book online!