New Zealand

Day 01

Arrive Auckland

Arrive into Auckland from India. Welcome to Auckland

Built around 60 odd extinct volcanoes this city has a lot to offer and if time permits we could suggest a drive to the top of One Tree Hill where a 360 degree vista shows the extent of this large cosmopolitan city. Auckland has a population in excess of one million people and the greater Auckland area spreads from the Bombay Hills south to the Hibiscus Coast in the north and the sea to both west and east. Upon your arrival in Auckland and on completion of customs formalities, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Auckland.

• INCLUDED
• A private transfer from Auckland Airport to Scenic Hotel Auckland
• You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your accommodation at Waldorf Stadium Apartment Hotel
• Studio Room at Scenic Hotel Auckland
• Full Breakfast

Day 02

Auckland to Waitomo Caves to Rotorua

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Auckland to Waitomo Caves. The drive south from Auckland takes you into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato – before arriving in the limestone hills of the Waitomo countryside, home to a huge underground network of caves. There are many ways to experience the magic below ground – enjoy a gentle boat trip under a ceiling of glowworms, take the longest underground walking tour in Ruakuri Cave or for a slight more thrilling adventure try black water rafting – an underground caving and rafting trip of a lifetime.

INCLUDED

Waitomo Caves Guided tour explores a 30 million year old cave network spread across three levels. You’ll travel deep underground through the limestone caves viewing stalactites and stalagmites as well as and hearing about the caves historical and geological significance. You’ll then hop into a boat and glide silently through the glow worm grotto – a galaxy of tiny living lights.

Waitomo Caves to Rotorua after Waitomo Caves tour, cross the lush farmland of the Waikato as you make your way inland to Rotorua. Pass through several small farming towns such as Otorohanga and Putaruru, before the region’s geothermal activity signals your arrival into the city of Rotorua.

• INCLUDED
• Superior Lakeside Room at Novotel Rotorua
• Full breakfast

Day 03

Day 03 & Day 04 – 11 & 12 September 2019 – Wednesday & Thursday – Rotorua

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide for 8 hours each day

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

INCLUDED

Agrodome Farm Show and Farm Tour Combo

At the legendary Agrodome Farm Show, get ready for a fun-filled hour of entertainment and education! You’ll have a few laughs as you’re introduced to 19 breeds of sheep, then you’ll witness a sheep shearing demonstration and a live dog trial!

Climb aboard the all-weather, all-terrain vehicle as we begin the tour. Along the way, there are fascinating things to learn – and a few laughs too!

You’ll get to hand-feed and take photos with all sorts of friendly animals, including Romney sheep, cattle, deer, llamas, ostrich, pigs and alpaca! During your ride you may even spot some rare breeds of sheep.

You’ll also explore our fruit orchard and olive grove and have the chance to taste natural kiwifruit juice and delicious sweet honey. Hands-on, entertaining and educational – kids and adults alike love the Farm Tour.

INCLUDED

Te Ra plus Haka at Te Puia

Only a short hop from the Rotorua township you’ll find Te Puia, known as New Zealand’s living Maori cultural experience. Sprawling across 60 hectares of volcanic land, it’s home to the world renowned Pohutu Geyser, a live kiwi enclosure and more than 500 geothermal wonders.

Shrouded in a continuous haze of steam, Te Puia has a dramatic and ethereal air. As you’re guided along the wooden walkways, thermal springs and boiling mud pools surround you on either side, while native ferns and flax can be seen in the forest ahead. Te Puia takes pride in keeping Maori traditions and craft alive and it is home to the New Zealand National Carving and Weaving Schools. You’ll have the chance to watch these unique craftspeople working as they share their skills with the next generation.

Also included is the Haka Daytime Experience, the best of Māori performing arts that includes:

• A spine-tingling Ceremonial Welcoming performance which usually take place when two groups are meeting for the first time
• A Kiwi House & Viewing Enclosure featuring two iconic native New Zealand kiwi birds
• Stunning Kapa Haka cultural shows feature traditional ancestral storytelling, song & dance, with the opportunity to join in hands on activity, for a more enlightening Maori cultural experience

INCLUDED

Superior Lakeside Room at Novotel Rotorua

Full breakfast

Day 05

Rotorua to Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

INCLUDED –Private transfer from sport of Novotel Rotorua to Rotorua Airport

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Rotorua Airport.

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Travel from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Travel to Lake Tekapo. Lake Tekapo is a special place with the glacial run off from the Southern Alps giving the Lake its surreal Turquoise color. Tekapo offer amazing views of the Southern Alps reflected in the lake and boasts some of the clearest sky’s on the planet. Tekapo is world renowned for its Star watching. Observatory tours are available.

INCLUDED– Deluxe Room at Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo

Day 06

Lake Tekapo to Queenstown via Mount Cook

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Lake Tekapo to Queenstown via Mount Cook

Experience the beauty and grandeur of the Southern Alps on a sightseeing day tour to Mount Cook.

Leaving Lake Tekapo in the morning, continue to the location of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mount Cook, situated in a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site. Rising to 3,724 metres high, Aoraki certainly lives up to its name, which in Māori can be translated as ‘cloud piercer’. Legend tells of a young boy named Aoraki who was stranded with his brothers when their canoe struck a reef. As it tilted, the brothers climbed to the high side, where they were frozen by the south wind and turned into stone. Aoraki and his brothers now form the Southern Alps.

Enjoy lunch (optional extra) at the famous Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook Village. After lunch you’ll have time to explore the village and soak up the view. Alternatively there is time to experience a scenic helicopter or ski plane flight for incredible views of mountain peaks and glaciers (additional cost, weather permitting – this flight can be arranged with your driver guide on the day).

The tour continues south, past Lake Pukaki and through the tawny tussock of the Mackenzie Country. En route, enjoy afternoon tea (own expense) in the quaint village of Omarama and if time permits, visit the Jones Family Orchard near Cromwell. Your tour concludes in the evening upon reaching Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.

INCLUDED

Superior Room at Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown

Full breakfast

Day 07

Milford Sound Day Trip ex Queenstown (Coach – Cruise – Coach)

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

INCLUDED –Milford Sound day tour and Nature Cruise including lunch

Luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with an extended 2½ hour Nature Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the Milford Mariner for a leisurely extended cruise of the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife with extensive commentary by the on board nature guide.

Return back to Queenstown after the cruise.

INCLUDED

Superior Room at Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown

Full breakfasts

Day 08

Day 08 & Day 09 – 16 & 17 September 2019 – Monday & Tuesday

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Although celebrated as New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Follow a trail of vines through Gibbston Valley as you sample the region’s best wine. We recommend stopping at the Chard Farm cellar door, visiting the architecturally award winning Peregrine vineyard or taking a cellar cave tour at Gibbston Valley Winery. Cruise to Walter Peak station for dinner on board a 100 year old steamship – the TSS Earnslaw. While you’re there, a farm tour is a must do for those not familiar with rural living. Take some time to wander the waterfront, and grab lunch at one of the many amazing cafes and restaurants on offer. Try Vudu’s Pantry and larder or for a holiday treat go to Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s ‘Rata. Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown – a disused gold mining settlement built in the 1800’s. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Venture further afield into the Fiordland National Park or head over the Crown Range to Wanaka. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. After all of that – if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or White Water Rafting.

INCLUDED

Skyline Gondola

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex etched against the sky above the town.

The Gondola base station is a 5 minute walk from central Queenstown. It has a vertical rise of 450m to the top of Bob’s Peak.

INCLUDED

Superior Room at Copthorne Resort Lakefront, Queenstown

Full breakfasts

Day 10

Queenstown to Franz Josef

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier (via Wanaka)

From Queenstown you’ll cross the Crown Range – the highest sealed road in New Zealand – to arrive in the Alpine town of Wanaka, gateway to Mt Aspiring national park. Skirting the shores of both Lake Wanaka and Hawea, you will enter the small town of Makarora. Stop at Blue Pools for a ten minute walk through native beech forest to a glacier-fed swimming hole. Continue on through the remote seaside settlement of Haast before heading up the wild West Coast – a 600 km stretch of bush and native rainforest. Fox Glacier welcomes you first, then comes your destination for the night – Franz Josef township.

INCLUDED

Puzzling World – The Great Maze and Illusion Rooms Combo

Puzzling World is one of the best family activities you can do while on holiday in Wanaka. The Illusion Rooms, Puzzle Centre and Maze will leave you baffled!

INCLUDED

Standard Rooms at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef

Full breakfasts

Day 11

Franz Josef to Christchurch

INCLUDED –Private driver and guide

Your private driver and guide will meet you today to begin your journey. Offering knowledgeable commentary on the route and itinerary, your guide will ensure you get to see the most important and impressive locations. Of course flexibility is also the key and so be sure to discuss any interests you might have. All related vehicle and fuel costs are included while travelling with your guide.

Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station

Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Head to the coast and take in the endless sea-views or pick up a souvenir at one of the many craft shops. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey – the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the Greymouth Train Station depot located inside the train station building before boarding your train to Christchurch.

INCLUDED –TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

Your TranzAlpine train departs Greymouth Train Station at 14:05. Please check in at least 20 minutes before departure by presenting your reference number to the ticket office.You will receive your boarding pass and your suitcases (large bags) will be checked in.

Your train is scheduled to arrive at Christchurch Train Station at 18:30.

Considered one of the world’s great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You’ll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur’s Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

INCLUDED –Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to Tower Junction Motor Lodge, Christchurch

You will be greeted upon arrival of the TranzAlpine Scenic Train at 18:30 and transferred to your accommodation.

INCLUDED– Standard Rooms at Rendezvous Hotel, Christchurch Full breakfasts

Day 12

Depart Christchurch/New Zealand

INCLUDED– Private transfer to Christchurch airport

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to the airport to meet your departing flight from Christchurch.

Here, we bid you a fond farewell and hope you leave with many happy memories of your stay in Aotearoa, New Zealand.