Explore New Zealand
10 Days / 9 Nights...for
more details>>>
Explore New Zealand by Coach or Self-Drive
Car. Flexible Daily Departures
If you are planning
to travel around New Zealand, you will find that this itinerary
offers a complete New Zealand experience, based entirely
on YOUR own terms. Extend your vacation at any point along
the way by adding extra nights in your favorite locations.
| Day 1 |
Arrive
Auckland
Welcome to Auckland , the 'City
of Sails'. This afternoon we suggest a city sightseeing
tour. |
| Day 2 |
Auckland
| Bay of Islands (149 miles)
Cross the Auckland
Harbour Bridge and travel north from Auckland
along the beautiful Hibiscus Coast to the Bay
of Islands . The afternoon enjoy a guided visit
to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds where the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840,
cemented European and Maori into nationhood. Balance
of day at leisure to enjoy the many activities of
the area that was the stage for much of New Zealand's
early history. This included settlement by Polynesian
adventurers, discovery by Captain Cook and the unruly
whaling era. (Optional meal plans begin today) |
| Day 3 |
Paihia,
Bay of Islands
Day at leisure
or take an Optional Tour to Cape Reinga. From Paihia
enjoy the historical and scenic journey to Cape Reinga.
Drive along the mighty Ninety Mile beach, beneath
gigantic sand dunes. If you dare -ride the sand sledges.
At Cape Reinga wander out to the lighthouse where
spectacular views of the two oceans - Pacific Ocean
& Tasman Sea meet. Or perhaps take a Swim
with the Dolphins Cruise. |
| Day 4 |
Bay
of Islands | Cruise | Auckland
Board the luxury
catamaran at the Paihia Maritime Wharf and cruise
to Cape Brett. This most popular cruise in the Bay
of Islands will whisk you on a comfortable journey
out through game fishing waters to the Cape Brett
Lighthouse and the famous "
Hole in the Rock" . On the return journey time
is taken to meander through the islands. View sandy
beaches, beautiful bays and marine wildlife before
an island stopover allowing you to enjoy a scenic
walk, swim or browse through the local souvenir shop.
Upon return to Paihia your coach will return you to
downtown Auckland at approximately 9:15pm. |
| Day 5 |
Auckland
| Waitomo I Rotorua
Travel south over the
Bombay Hills, following the Waikato River to Hamilton,
then on via Te Awamutu to Waitomo. Enjoy a buffet
lunch before visiting the Waitomo Caves. Tours to
the caves include the magical boat-ride through the
Glow- worm Grotto. Continue on via Lake Karapiro to
arrive in Rotorua. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi
(feast) and concert. |
| Day 6 |
Rotorua
Sightseeing
Rotorua is the centre of the geothermal
region of New Zealand and is also the main centre
for Maori culture. Boiling mud, geysers and silica
deposits surrounding the lake attract visitors from
all over the world. Enjoy a half-day thermal tour
- visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, Rainbow Springs
Nature Park, Buried Village, Rotorua Museum and free
leisure time to shop and have lunch. (own expense). |
| Day 7 |
Rotorua
| Queenstown
(Airfare Not Included)
Today fly from Rotorua over the majestic Southern
Alps to Queenstown. On arrival you will be transferred
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. |
| Day 8 |
Milford
Sound Day Excursion
Drive through the magnificent
beech forests of the Eglington and Hollyford Valleys,
through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound for a launch
excursion on the fiord. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery
including the awe- inspiring Mitre Peak with a full
commentary on the natural history of the fiord. Upon
conclusion return to Queenstown. |
| Day 9 |
Queenstown
Today is free to enjoy the
many leisure pursuits. The local staff at" The
Station" can assist with information and reservations
for the huge selection of things to see and do. |
| Day 10 |
Queenstown | Christchurch (369
miles)
Journey through dramatic landscapes
to arrive in Christchurch early eveing. |
Includes: 9 nights accommodation, Bay of Islands a vacation paradise,
Guided visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Cape Brett "Hole
in the Rock" Cruise, 3 nights exciting Queenstown and
Milford Sound Cruise. Seat-in-Coach prices include arrival
transfer. Self-Drive prices do not include vehicle insurance.
Updated Page 14 April 2008
