Captain Cook had the right idea when he first set eyes on the shores of New Zealand in 1769. Cook’s intrepid crew sailed the ship Endeavour around New Zealand’s entire 2,400-mile coastline, mapping out its elongated form for the first time as they went.

The water’s edge

New Zealand’s ever-changing coastline features the tranquil paradise of Hokianga Bay and the famous Bay of Islands, towards the northernmost tip of the subtropical North Island, where sailors frequently enjoy the company of dolphins.

A voyage to the cooler climes of the South Island takes visitors through the stunning Marlborough Sounds, by the Kaikoura Seal Colony, and down to the spectacular Milford Sound fjord, on which cruise ships glide between magnificent towering peaks.

These coastal riches only reveal half of New Zealand’s beauty though, and that is where a faultless, escorted journey with the award-winning Scenic Tours comes in. Travelling with the experts ensures visitors see the best of New Zealand’s coastal fringes and its mountainous spine, while enjoying only the finest hotels and restaurants.

Touring terrain

Scenic Tours’ 27-day Royal New Zealand Tour, for example, takes in these coastal highlights, while winding through an array of inland locations that illustrate New Zealand’s true diversity. Flexibility is also key with Scenic Tours activities, so each traveller can opt for high-speed exhilaration or laid-back indulgence, or perhaps both.

A journey through the North Island takes in the Pohutu Geyser, which shoots boiling water 30 metres into the air, before arriving in Rotorua with its strong Maori influences. Guests also enjoy dinner and wine tasting in the private restaurant of a boutique Hawkes Bay winery.

On the South Island, passengers bowl across the magnificent Southern Alps, before pausing at the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier. You can understand why Captain Cook cherished New Zealand.

GETTING THERE...

27 day Royal New Zealand Tour

Escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Director and Coach Captain, featuring famous sites plus diversions off the beaten track. Attention to every detail is assured, from overnight stays at only the finest hotels, to a handpicked selection of New Zealand’s finest restaurants. Flexible options for flights, dining and excursions are included in the holiday price ensure the 27-day adventure will be built to suit individual needs. From £5,295 per person

31-day Very Best of Australia and New Zealand tour from £6,795pp.

Special offer

Scenic Tours is offering a free two-night stopover on the return journey – with a value of up to £618 per couple.

To book or request your FREE brochure and DVD click here call 0800 023 5082

www.scenictours.co.uk