ULTIMATE NEW ZEALAND TOUR

Whether walking through lush native forests, swimming with dolphins, jetboating, fishing or just playing a round of golf, you will be touched by the experience that awaits you. Packed with Scenic Freechoice inclusions to personalise your holiday, you'll enjoy the very best that the far North and South Islands have to offer including magnificent cruises and stunning train journeys. It's 25 days of touring that you're not likely to forget.

DAY 1 - ARRIVE AUCKLAND

Welcome to New Zealand.
Two Night Stay: Auckland

DAY 2 - AUCKLAND

Inclusions - All inclusive: today choose from a sightseeing tour of Auckland to the fascinating Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World; or a visit to Sky Tower, the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere; or an Auckland sightseeing tour visiting all the major sights; or Auckland Harbour morning tea cruise; or a wilderness experience visiting the Waitakere Ranges and the black beaches of the west coast. Must be pre booked.
Opportunity to replace today's touring with a one day 'Introduction to Sailing' course (see Tour Inclusions, surcharge applies.)

DAY 3 - AUCKLAND - BAY OF ISLANDS

This morning we head north along the Hibiscus Coast to Matakohe. Visit the Kauri Pioneer Museum. Continue up the Northland peninsula through the breathtaking Waipoua Forest and on to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided tour.
Two Night Stay: Bay of Islands
Luxury Lodge Upgrade: Upgrade to two nights at Cliff Edge by the Sea. Surcharge applies, enquire for details

DAY 4 - BAY OF ISLANDS

Inclusions - All inclusive: choose from swimming with the dolphins; or Cape Reinga Tour; half day snapper fishing within the Bay of Islands; golf at Waitangi Golf Club; Russell Mini Tour & Pompallier or a full day sail on 'On the Edge', New Zealand's fastest commercial sailing catamaran.
Opportunity to replace today's touring with Cape Reinga half day fly/ 4WD tour (see Tour Inclusions, surcharge applies).

DAY 5 - 'HOLE IN THE ROCK' CRUISE

This morning cruise through the scenic waters of the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett Lighthouse and through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' (weather permitting). This afternoon return to Auckland.
Overnight Stay: Auckland

DAY 6 - LONGLANDS HOMESTEAD - ROTORUA

Journey to the top of Mt Eden then continue southward to Goldfields Railway. Next tour a working dairy farm followed by a delicious Roast Lamb Luncheon. After lunch visit Whakarewarewa Forest for a relaxing stroll through the towering Redwoods before continuing to Rotorua. Tonight get a taste of Maori life at the 'Realm of Tane' cultural performance and Hangi feast.
Two Night Stay: Rotorua
Luxury Lodge Upgrade: Upgrade to two nights at Hamurana Country Estate or Treetops Lodge & Estate. Surcharge applies, enquire for details.

DAY 7 - ROTORUA

This morning tour Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts & Crafts Institute. Scenic FreeChoice Inclusions - All inclusive: choose from relaxing at the Polynesian Day Spa; or a visit to Agrodome; Rotorua Museum; an exhilarating 4WD Safari adventure; visit a buried village Te Wairoa; or enjoy a guided trout fishing expedition.
Opportunity to replace today's touring with a Helicopter Tour to White Island or Mt Tarawera (surcharge applies, refer to Tour Inclusions).

DAY 8 - NAPIER - WINERY DINNER

Visit Huka Falls, Wairakei Steam Valley and Lake Taupo. Continue on to the coastal township of Napier. This afternoon we take a guided walk around this unique city renowned for its Art Deco architecture. Your walk finishes at the Hawkes Bay Museum where you will learn about the 1931 earthquake. Tonight enjoy wine tasting and dinner at Church Road Winery.
Overnight Stay: Napier

DAY 9 - NAPIER - WELLINGTON

This morning we depart Napier and continue south to Wellington. Enjoy a guided tour of Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum.
Overnight Stay: Wellington

DAY 10 - WELLINGTON - MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS - CHRISTCHURCH

This morning board the InterIslander Ferry for a cruise through the breathtaking beauty of the Marlborough Sounds to New Zealand's south island. Continue southward along the spectacular east coast to Christchurch.
Overnight Stay: Christchurch

DAY 11 - TRANZALPINE - FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Today's touring takes us on an unforgettable journey through the magnificent Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine to Arthurs Pass. Continue on by coach to Hokitika and the Greenstone Jade Factory. Stop and view the awesome Franz Josef Glacier.
Overnight Stay: Franz Josef Glacier

DAY 12 - FRANZ JOSEF - QUEENSTOWN

Enjoy a day of beautiful scenery as we travel to the charming lakeside town of Wanaka with time for lunch before we head into picturesque Queenstown. Dining - All inclusive: choose from cruise on TSS Earnslaw and dine at Walter Peak Station; or dine at Lombardis Restaurant; or choose the Skyline Restaurant with views over Queenstown and Lake Wakitipu.
Three Night Stay: Queenstown
Luxury Lodge Upgrade: Upgrade to three nights at Evergreen Lodge. Surcharge applies, enquire for details.

DAY 13 - DART WILDERNESS ADVENTURE

This morning begins with a breathtaking drive to Glenorchy for your exclusive Stockman's breakfast. Then board your fully covered jet boat for an unforgettable trip up the Dart River. Inclusions - All inclusive: choose from a guided tour of Skippers Canyon; a Boutique Winery tour with lunch; a garden tour; an indulgence treatment choice of relaxing massage or foot revival; Lord of the Rings Safari; Shotover Jet Adventure; Mt Aspiring National Park & Routeburn Valley walk or a Bungy Jump.
Opportunity to replace today's touring with a Heli-Hiking Adventure to Skippers Canyon (refer to Tour Inclusions, surcharge applies).

DAY 14 - QUEENSTOWN FREE DA

Today is free to explore at your own pace.

DAY 15 - MILFORD SOUND - TE ANAU

Enjoy scenic splendour today as we travel through the breathtaking Fiordland National Park. Experience an unforgettable cruise on Milford Sound.
Opportunity to replace today's touring with a visit to the secluded Doubtful Sound or to overnight on Milford Sound. (Must be pre-booked. Surcharge applies, refer to Tour Inclusions).
Overnight Stay: Te Anau

DAY 16 - TE ANAU - DUNEDIN

Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the Glowworm Caves. Continue on to Dunedin, New Zealand's oldest city.
Home Stay: opportunity to experience the warmth of the local people during a one night overnight local 'Home Stay' included in tour at no extra cost. Must be pre-booked.
Overnight Stay: Dunedin

DAY 17 - DUNEDIN - TWIZEL

This morning enjoy a guided tour of Larnach castle, before we leave Dunedin and head north, stopping at the famous Moeraki Boulders. We continue on to Twizel.
Overnight Stay: Twizel

DAY 18 - MT COOK - LAKE TEKAPO - CHRISTCHURCH

Today we travel to the beautiful Mt Cook National Park and then on to Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Tonight enjoy a ride on the historic Christchurch Tram for Cocktail Hour, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight Stay: Christchurch

DAY 19 - CHRISTCHURCH - HANMER SPRINGS - THERMAL POOLS

Inclusions - choose from a bicycle tour; Avon River Punting; local garden visit; or ride the City Loop Tram.. This afternoon travel to the unique alpine village of Hanmer Springs where you will have the rest of the day to unwind in one of the many thermal mineral pools.
Overnight Stay: Hanmer Springs

DAY 20 - ABEL TASMAN CRUISE - NELSON

Today journey up to the top of the South Island and enjoy a scenic cruise in the Abel Tasman National Park. Time to relax or take a stroll at Anchorage Beach before cruising back and continuing on to Nelson
Two Night Stay: Nelson

DAY 21 - NELSON

Inclusions - All inclusive: choose from a gourmet winery tour; a guided walk of Nelson; or a visit to the World of Wearable Arts & Collectable Cars.

DAY 22 - MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS CRUISE - WELLINGTON

We continue our journey northward today, with a breathtaking inter island cruise to Wellington. This afternoon is free to explore.
Overnight Stay: Wellington

DAY 23 - WELLINGTON - TAUPO

Today we travel across the vast volcanic plains of Tongariro National Park to Lake Taupo. This afternoon is free to enjoy the many facilities of your resort.
Overnight Stay: Taupo

DAY 24 - WAIOTAPU - MT MAUNGANUI - AUCKLAND

Depart Taupo for Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland. Continue on to Mt Maunganui and then Auckland.
Overnight Stay: Auckland

DAY 25 - AUCKLAND

Following breakfast farewell new found friends.

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Western Australia Kimberley Spectacular and Bungle Escape image
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Tour Highlights

  • Three Night stay in Queenstown
  • Lake Taupo
  • Milford Sound cruise
  • TranzAlpine rail journey
  • Franz Josef Glacier
  • Rotorua Thermal Reserve
  • Marlborough Sounds cruise
  • Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Scenic Exclusives

  • Dart Wilderness Jet Boat adventure
  • Abel Tasman National Park cruise
  • Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve
  • Waitakere Rainforest Wilderness experience
  • Mt Aspiring National Park & Routeburn Valley guided walk
  • Goldfields Vintage Railway
  • Luxury Suite* accommodation in Queenstown

Dining Experiences

  • 'Realm of Tane' Hangi feast
  • Church Road Winery Dinner
  • Longlands Roast Lamb Luncheon with all the trimmings
  • Farewell dinner Christchurch Tram & Six Chairs Missing Restaurant
  • Stockman's Barbeque Breakfast in Glenorchy
  • Scenic FreeChoice dining in Queenstown
  • 43 superb meals including: 24 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 18 dinners

Additonal Touring Options

Sail NZ Sailing School, Auckland - Active

  • An introduction to Sailing program involving classroom tuition and an exciting day out on Waitemata Harbour learning the basics of sail handling and steering. No prior sailing experience is required. The day begins with sailing terminology and theory conducted at Auckland Maritime Museum. After a familiarisation with the Soling yachts the fun and learning starts as you venture out of Auckland's Viaduct Harbour and become one of the crew. In the afternoon board Sail NZ's America's Cup yacht's and practice your skills on a 2 hour sail.

Salt Air Cape Reinga Tour, Bay of Islands - Active

  • Take a one hour flight in a comfortable fixed wing aircraft across some of rural Northlands best scenery, and then via the West Coast for a bird's eye view of the world famous 90 mile beach. Explore the top of New Zealand including Cape Reinga, morning or afternoon tea at the stunning Tapotupotu Bay and a drive down the Te Paki Quicksand stream for some fun tobogganing on the Giant Sand Dunes. Your return flight travels back down the East Coast and offers views of areas that cannot be reached any other way than by viewing from an aircraft or by sea. Must be pre-booked and paid.

White Island Landing, Rotorua - Active

  • Imagine landing on an active volcano in a helicopter - well this is your chance! You will fly out over the east coast, taking in views of Lakes, forest and the Volcanic Fault Line. Land on White Island and enjoy a one-hour trek up to the crater past the remains of Sulphur Works, boiling water, crystallised sulphur and much more. On the return flight watch for dolphins and school fish. Must be pre-booked and paid.

Doubtful Sound - Moderate

  • World Heritage Doubtful Sound, is an overwhelming place. You can feel the power of nature here, the remoteness, the wildness and the peace. Known for its wilderness and wildlife, Doubtful Sound is the second largest of the 14 fiords in Fiordland National Park. Enjoy a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, and then join your coach and journey into the depths of the fascinating underground power station. Continue to peaceful Doubtful Sound, which is the more remote and less populated than Milford Sound. Must be pre-booked and paid.

Overnight on Milford Sound

  • When the day visitors depart a silence descends. An overnight cruise on Milford Sound, is a 'once in a lifetime' experience. Stay aboard the Milford Mariner for a very special experience. You will cruise the full length of this spectacular fiord before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove. With our nature guide you can go exploring in the tender craft and kayaks or simply relax on deck. After the days activities, enjoy a evening buffet in the spacious saloon before retiring to your private cabin. Must be pre-booked and paid.

Local Home Stay, Dunedin

  • It is said that the real New Zealand is its people. Your hosts are genuinely interested in sharing their country, their lifestyle and themselves. You will experience old fashion country hospitality and delicious home cooked meals in the company of new friends when you book this overnight country home stay option. No extra charge applies. Must be pre-booked.

Mt Tarawera Volcanic Landing, Rotorua - Moderate

  • Experience the thrill of flying over and then landing on the spectacular craters and domes of Mt Tarawera. Mt Tarawera is the sacred mountain of the local Maori Tribe. Tour includes informative commentary about the mountains eruptive history including the 1886 eruption. Views of spectacular crater lakes, scenic reserve and of the Rotorua city area. Must be pre-booked and paid

Scenic Helicopter Flights, Franz Josef, Queenstown & Mt Cook - Relaxed

  • A once in a lifetime experience, these scenic flights from world famous locations will take your breath away. You will discover that the stunning views of New Zealand's National Parks, glaciers, mountains and lakes are always best from above. Flights range from 10 to 40 minutes and can include snow and glacier landings. May only be purchased on tour.

Skippers Trail Helihike, Queenstown - Active

  • Travel up to the Saddle of the historic Skippers Canyon by comfortable 4WD. Your two hour walk winds its way down into the canyon along the original goldminers trail, once the only access to the canyon. From the Long Gully Hotel ruins you will travel further into the canyon by 4WD to the old restored schoolhouse where you will enjoy a delicious lunch. Board your helicopter for an exciting scenic flight over the canyon following the wild and untamed Shotover River back downstream to join your transport back to town. May only be purchased on tour.

Tasman Glacier Walking Tour , Mount Cook - Active

  • This three hour tour starts with a 4WD journey along the historic Ball Hut Road where you will learn many interesting facts about the glaciers and surrounding mountains. The highlight of the tour is the walk, taking just under an hour. Walk up to stand high on the glacial moraine wall and view the powerful Tasman Glacier as it carves its way out from the majestic Southern Alps and passes beneath you. May only be purchased on tour.

Conditions:

  • Minimum numbers may apply to some Optional Activities. Some activities are seasonal and not available all year round. Tasman Glacier Tour does not walk on the glacier. Price on application. Activities purchased on tour will be priced in New Zealand dollars. Price on application.