New Zealand: Glowworm Caves, Glacier Lakes, Māori Culture & LDS Singles Connections!

Get ready for the ULTIMATE bucket list getaway with an amazing group of LDS Singles as we explore the best of New Zealand’s North and South Islands! This isn’t just a vacation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure packed with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and unforgettable connections.

Dates: March 1-15, 2026

Fly in to: Auckland, NZ

Fly out of: Christchurch, NZ

Visiting: 

Included: Sailing the Bay of Islands, exploring glowworm caves, visiting Hobbiton, soaking in Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, experiencing a Māori cultural night, cruising Milford Sound, and boating past glaciers and more

LDS Singles of all Ages

Countdown to New Zealand

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Discover the Best of New Zealand’s North Island
Your journey begins in Auckland, where we kick things off with a welcome dinner atop the Sky Tower. From there, we head north to the stunning Bay of Islands for a private sailing adventure and a visit to the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Continue on to explore the magical glowworm caves of Waitomo and walk through the real-life movie set of Hobbiton. In Rotorua, experience bubbling geothermal landscapes, a vibrant Māori cultural performance, and hands-on jade carving. The North Island offers a beautiful blend of natural wonders, rich history, and cultural connection—all shared with a fun group of LDS Singles.

Experience the Wild Beauty of the South Island
After a quick flight to Christchurch, dive into a unique mix of city charm and nature. Spot whales in Kaikoura, paddle a traditional waka on the Avon River, and sample Kiwi flavors on a cultural food tour. Then it’s off to Mount Cook for a glacier boat cruise and panoramic alpine views. Finish the trip in Queenstown—New Zealand’s adventure capital—where you’ll cruise through the dramatic Milford Sound, ride the Skyline Gondola for dinner with a view, and have the option to jet boat, raft, or even bungy jump. Every moment is crafted for connection, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Your Host: Cheri Sandlin

Pricing Details

  • Double Occupancy: Coming Soon
  • Single Occupancy: Coming Soon

A $1000 deposit per person secures your spot, with the final balance due by December 1, 2025. Don’t wait—reserve your adventure today!

Cancellation Policy

  • At the time of booking: The $1000 deposit per person is non-refundable.
  • After December 1, 2025: The full reservation amount becomes non-refundable.

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to safeguard your trip investment against unforeseen circumstances.

What’s Included

  • Accommodation in 4-star resorts throughout the trip.
  • Daily breakfast, plus 3 lunches and 6 dinners as listed in the itinerary.
  • All activities and tours outlined in the itinerary.
  • Flights within New Zealand: Rotorua to Christchurch
  • Taxes and fees.
  • Luggage allowance: 1 standard suitcase and 1 small carry-on per person.

What’s Not Included

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended).
  • International flights to New Zealand
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional activities during leisure time.
  • Souvenirs and personal expenses.
  • Tips for guides, drivers, porters, and waiters.
  • Additional luggage beyond the standard allowance.
  • Visa or passport fees.
  • Entry or departure fees, if applicable.

This adventure ensures comfort and convenience with included transfers, letting you focus on enjoying Thailand’s incredible sights and experiences!

Itinerary

Day 1, March 1, 2026: Arrival to New Zealand - Bangkok - Welcome to Chiang Mai!
Day 1: Welcome to Chiang Mai!

Welcome to New Zealand! After landing, you’ll be transferred to the hotel in the heart of Auckland. In the evening, we’ll meet up for a welcome dinner at the Orbit Restaurant, rotating high above the city in the Sky Tower. A perfect start to an unforgettable journey!

Included Meals: Dinner

Day 2, March 2, 2026: Auckland to Bay of Islands
Day 2: Temples & Lantern Magic

Head north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge into New Zealand’s subtropical Northland region. Enjoy scenic countryside, coastal views, and a guided tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds upon arrival in the Bay of Islands.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3, March 3, 2026: Bay of Islands
Day 3: A Day with Gentle Giants
Set sail on a private cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands. Relax on a remote beach, hike to a viewpoint, swim in the turquoise waters, and keep an eye out for dolphins. Lunch is included on board, with the rest of the day free to explore or unwind.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4: March 4, 2026: Bay of Islands to Whangamata
Journey south with stops along the way, including a visit to the Whangarei waterfalls and lunch by the water. Continue through farmlands and beach towns before reaching Whangamata, a charming coastal retreat.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 5, March 5, 2026: Coromandel Coast Adventure
Choose your morning adventure—hike to Cathedral Cove, kayak through sea caves, or take a scenic boat tour. After exploring the Coromandel Peninsula, enjoy a lunch stop in Tairua and a relaxed evening back in Whangamata.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 6, March 6, 2026: To Rotorua via Glowworms & Hobbiton
Day 6: Bangkok’s Hidden Treasures

Begin with a visit to the magical glowworm caves in Waitomo, then step into the world of Middle-earth with a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Finish the day in Rotorua, known for its bubbling geothermal activity.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 7, March 7, 2026: Rotorua

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and witness the eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser. After lunch, try your hand at carving jade before enjoying an immersive Māori cultural evening complete with a traditional hāngī dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8, March 8, 2026: Fly to Christchurch
Day 8: Island Life & Thai Cuisine

Take a domestic flight to the South Island and settle into Christchurch. That evening, dine aboard the vintage Christchurch Tram as you explore the city by night in style.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9, March 9, 2026: Day Trip to Kaikoura
Venture to the coast for an unforgettable whale watching cruise in Kaikoura, where you may spot sperm whales, dolphins, and seals. Return to Christchurch for a free evening.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 10, March 10, 2026: Christchurch Culture Day
Experience a traditional waka paddle on the Avon River, then take a guided walking food tour through Christchurch with Māori storytelling and local tastings.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11, March 11, 2026: Christchurch to Mount Cook

Travel through rolling countryside to the breathtaking alpine landscapes of Mount Cook. Stop at Lake Tekapo and enjoy dinner with stunning mountain views.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12, March 12, 2026: Mount Cook to Queenstown

Cruise among icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Lake before heading to Queenstown via the scenic Lindis Pass. Arrive in the adventure capital of New Zealand and settle in for three nights.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 13, March 13, 2026: Milford Sound Day Trip

Take a day trip to one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders—Milford Sound. Enjoy a scenic cruise surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 14, March 14, 2026: Queenstown Adventure Day

Choose your thrill! Options include jet boating, whitewater rafting, quad biking, or even bungy jumping. That evening, take the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for a farewell dinner with sweeping views.

Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 15, March 15, 2026: Depart New Zealand - Until Next Time, New Zealand!

After breakfast, transfer to the Queenstown Airport for your flight home. Say goodbye to your new friends and the stunning landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand!

Included Meals: Breakfast

"The voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes"

~ Thomas Alva Edison