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A panoramic view of Wellington Bay, New Zealand, featuring the city skyline, sailboats in turquoise water, and green hills under a bright blue sky.
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New Zealand

New Zealand Coastal Expedition & Discovery

Program No. 25742RJ
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Program
At a Glance
Duration
15 days
Program Begins
Queenstown
Program Concludes
Auckland
Meals
33 ( 12B, 10L, 11D )
Activity Level
From
13,999
Free Airfare From Select Cities
Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand on a voyage that reveals the country from coastlines to city streets. Begin in Queenstown, where alpine landscapes and regional history set the stage for exploration, then travel to Bluff to board the Heritage Adventurer. From there, trace the contours of New Zealand’s shores, venturing into tranquil fiords, vibrant harbors and remote island communities. Experience places shaped by nature and tradition — from Fiordland’s dramatic scenery to the energy of Wellington and geothermal wonders near Tauranga. Throughout your journey, engage with onboard instructors who provide insight into the landscapes, wildlife and cultures that define Aotearoa, all while sharing experiences with other Road Scholars who share your love of learning.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Sail through Fiordland National Park, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Dusky, Milford and Doubtful Sounds.
  • Explore Stewart Island, a renowned haven for birdlife, where you’ll set out to observe native species in their natural habitat.
  • Experience the diversity of both New Zealand’s North and South Islands, from coastal towns to the cultural capital of Wellington and geothermal landscapes near Tauranga.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to experts who will be with you throughout your journey and learn from them as you take in onboard lectures and educational activities.
Activity Level
Choose Your Pace
This program offers two activity levels. The “On Your Feet” option includes walking up to 2 miles per day over unpaved or cobblestones streets and standing up to 2 hours per day. The more active “Keep the Pace” option includes walking up to 4 miles a day at a moderate pace of 2 miles per hour, potentially over unpaved or cobblestone streets, and standing for up to 3 hours per day. Field trips may include navigating steep stairways and uneven terrain at archaeological sites. This program will require approximately 30 miles of walking over 9 days. PLEASE NOTE: This program is not suitable for wheelchair/electric scooter use. Must be able to get in & out of tender boats and zodiacs, feel comfortable navigating around the ship and using stairs while on board.
Floating Campus®
On our Road Scholar Floating Campuses, we’ll have the entire ship to ourselves and enjoy field trips onshore in smaller groups. Onboard experts will be on hand throughout the voyage and will offer instruction during exclusive lectures, Q&A sessions and discussions.
Suggested Books and Resources
View Full List
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
Enroll with Confidence
Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

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Assurance Plan

Road Scholar is committed to the well-being of every participant, whether on a program in the United States or abroad. That’s why all participants are covered under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan, which provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program, as well as insurance for emergency medical evacuation.

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Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

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Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

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