New Zealand Highlighter: Premier Escorted Luxury Vacation
- Duration
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,145
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH: See the highlights of New Zealand with a group by coach while maintaining a great deal of freedom to choose your own activities. Explore the cultural and scenic sides of this unique country.
See the best of New Zealand on this 14 day trip from Auckland to Christchurch.
Consistently voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, Auckland seduces visitors with an ideal combination of indoor culture and outdoor lifestyle. Freedom of Choice Touring options let you choose your perfect Auckland experience, whether it’s a cruise on Waitemata Harbour or a visit to Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World.
Enjoy a guided tour to see the glowworms of Waitomo Caves on your way to Rotorua, home to bubbling mudpools and spouting geysers. You’ll partake of a traditional Maori Hangi feast and cultural performance at Mitai Maori Village. From your Freedom of Choice options, consider a visit to the Agrodome to learn about the country’s sheep farming industry, or Rainbow Springs, to meet some of the native animals and plants. A journey through Wairakei Steam Valley, stopping off at Huka Falls and beautiful Lake Taupo takes you to Wellington. Choose your own itinerary for a day in New Zealand’s capital. It might include a visit to Zealandia wildlife sanctuary, or even a Lord of the Rings tour.
Hop the TranzAlpine express to Franz Josef, home to the namesake glacier – said to be the tears of a Maori princess pining for her lost love. Via a tour of Haast River, go on to the skier’s Mecca of Queenstown, right in the heart of the South Island’s mountain landscape. Choose from a range of activities, such as a 4WD trip to Skippers Canyon, or a jetboat ride on the Shotover River (a Queenstown favourite). All travellers will love an included day trip to Milford Sound, a breathtaking, 16km long fjord carved by glaciers out to the Tasman Sea.
Travel from the nearby town of Te Anau to beautiful Dunedin, where you may choose from a range of activities including a visit to Otago Peninsula, home to colonies of Royal Albatross and Yellow-eyed Penguins, and a railway excursion through spectacular Taieri Gorge. A northbound journey along the coast lets you see Oamaru’s distinctive limestone architecture on your way to Mt Cook National Park. Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or try a stargazing experience with an expert astronomy guide. Cap off your day with an exclusive stay at The Hermitage, with views of majestic Mt Cook – known to the Maori as ‘Cloud Piercer’ – before ending your New Zealand adventure in Christchurch.
- Duration
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,145
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Auckland
Transfer to your hotel, then set out on your selected Freedom of Choice activity. This evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE
Perhaps cruise on Waitemata Harbour; enjoy a unique All Blacks experience; visit Auckland Zoo to discover the native flora and fauna of New Zealand; immerse yourself in an Unleashed - A Weta Workshop Experience and journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Weta Workshop; or escape the bustle of the city on a tour to Auckland's wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest.
| Meal Plan | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland |
| Location | View map |
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Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland
The Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland is situated in the heart of Auckland within walking distance to restaurants, shops, galleries, museums, and Auckland's exciting America's Cup village. The hotel has fully appointed and stylish rooms that are equipped with modern amenities. The rooms are designed to …
The Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland is situated in the heart of Auckland within walking distance to restaurants, shops, galleries, museums, and Auckland's exciting America's Cup village.
The hotel has fully appointed and stylish rooms that are equipped with modern amenities. The rooms are designed to ensure that you have everything you need, in an utterly modern and delightfully relaxing environment. The in house restaurant serves a wide variety of New Zealand cuisine and other international delicacies. You can also unwind with a fine drink after a tiring day.Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Laundry facilities
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua
Heading out of Auckland you'll make a stop at Waitomo, home to the famous glow worm caves where thousands of tiny luminescent creatures radiate an eerie glow. Discover this natural wonder on a guided boat ride through a grotto lit by these magical creatures, before continuing to Rotorua.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Tonight, enjoy an indulgent traditional Maori feast and performance of Haka, song and storytelling at Te Pa Tu (Maori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a Haka powhiri (cultural welcome) and then treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapes, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Millennium Hotel Rotorua |
| Location | View map |
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Millennium Hotel Rotorua
This popular hotel in Rotorua is centrally located just a brief stroll to Lake Rotorua, Rotorua's International Convention Centre, world famous Polynesian Spa, the town centre and only minutes from Rotorua's key tourist attractions and adventure activities. At Millennium Hotel Rotorua, you will find 227 …
This popular hotel in Rotorua is centrally located just a brief stroll to Lake Rotorua, Rotorua's International Convention Centre, world famous Polynesian Spa, the town centre and only minutes from Rotorua's key tourist attractions and adventure activities. At Millennium Hotel Rotorua, you will find 227 rooms offering you a wide choice of accommodation styles.
Facilities
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Massage Treatments
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Rotorua
Choose to explore Rotorua your way with a variety of included Freedom of Choice Sightseeing options.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE SIGHTSEEING
Perhaps enjoy a sheep show at the Agrodome followed by a visit to Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Alternatively, choose to visit Wai-O-Tapu, or experience Middle-earth during a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington
Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway through the glorious landscapes of the North Island. Gaze out over the thunderous Huka Falls and the tranquil setting of Lake Taupo, before crossing the volcanic plateau of Tongariro National Park on your way to the nation's capital, Wellington.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
InterContinental Wellington |
| Location | View map |
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InterContinental Wellington
Intercontinental Wellington is a modern luxury hotel perfect for leisure or business travellers. Located in the heart of the city and adjacent to the scenic harbour, it is the ideal base to explore the local businesses, shopping and cultural centres. There are 232 stylish rooms …
Intercontinental Wellington is a modern luxury hotel perfect for leisure or business travellers. Located in the heart of the city and adjacent to the scenic harbour, it is the ideal base to explore the local businesses, shopping and cultural centres. There are 232 stylish rooms to choose from and several modern conveniences on site for you to enjoy.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Lounge(s)
- Massage Treatments
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Secretarial Service
- Spa
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
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Wellington
Set off on a tour taking you to the city's best-loved landmarks and sights, including New Zealand's national museum - Te Papa Tongarewa. The afternoon and evening have been left free for you to enjoy Wellington at your own pace.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Wellington, Christchurch
This morning, cruise to Picton at the tip of the South Island. Rejoin your coach and travel via the stunning landscapes of Marlborough and Kaikoura to Christchurch.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Step aboard the Interislander ferry this morning and cruise Cook Strait to the tip of the South Island.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport |
| Location | View map |
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Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport
Situated on Christchurch's Memorial Avenue on an idyllic seven acres of land featuring award-winning native New Zealand gardens, Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport is just minutes away from the Christchurch International Airport and ten minutes into the centre of Christchurch. The hotel features 137 guest accommodation …
Situated on Christchurch's Memorial Avenue on an idyllic seven acres of land featuring award-winning native New Zealand gardens, Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport is just minutes away from the Christchurch International Airport and ten minutes into the centre of Christchurch. The hotel features 137 guest accommodation rooms, conference and meeting facilities and extensive free parking.
Facilities
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Mail and Postal Facilities
- Multi-lingual Staff
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Secretarial Service
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
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Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef Glacier
After a special Signature Experience, disembark at Arthur's Pass and travel by coach to Hokitika. Here, you will see pounamu (jade) being expertly carved into pieces of jewellery. Continue to Franz Josef.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Board the TranzAlpine train for one of the world's greatest rail adventures.
Take in the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier Region.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Te Waonui Forest Retreat |
| Location | View map |
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Te Waonui Forest Retreat
A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand's pristine wilderness - Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh. All focus has been on creating a healthy, environmentally safe habitat to maximise guests' wellbeing. With a natural, earthy …
A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand's pristine wilderness - Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh. All focus has been on creating a healthy, environmentally safe habitat to maximise guests' wellbeing. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there's no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Facilities
- Bar
- Concierge
- Laundry facilities
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Valet Parking
Photo gallery
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Franz Josef, Queenstown
Enjoy a day of truly breathtaking scenery as you travel along the Haast River on your way to Queenstown. Tonight, choose between three restaurants for your dining experience.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE DINING
Perhaps cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw - a vintage steamboat - or dine amid the stylish surrounds of the Finz Restaurant. As another option, enjoy one of the world's most lauded burgers at Fergburger or enjoy dinner at your hotel.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside |
| Location | View map |
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Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Located in the very heart of Queenstown, overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is within a stone's throw from a range of fabulous stores, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. If you wish to venture a little further into this unspoiled Southern Lakes Region of New Zealand, …
Located in the very heart of Queenstown, overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is within a stone's throw from a range of fabulous stores, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. If you wish to venture a little further into this unspoiled Southern Lakes Region of New Zealand, you will discover some of the finest outdoor leisure activities in the world. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside has 204 guestrooms, all with balconies and stunning scenic views.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Parking (Valet)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Spa
Photo gallery
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Queenstown
Personalise your experience today with our range of Freedom of Choice activities.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE SIGHTSEEING
Perhaps visit several local sites where The Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed. Alternatively, set out on a Skippers Canyon adventure or a river safari along the beautiful Dart River. A tour of the country's premier wine-producing region is a tempting option, as is a leisurely cruise over the waters of Lake Wakatipu.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau
Embark on a scenic drive today as you journey along the Milford Road and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford valleys, then drive through the Homer Tunnel to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak, the iconic backdrop to Milford Sound. Continue to Milford Sound. Afterwards, enjoy a picturesque drive to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Cruise the full length of Milford Sound.
In Te Anau, sample authentic regional cuisine of the South Island during a Taste of Fiordland Dinner.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau |
| Location | View map |
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Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau
Distinction Hotel and Villas is situated on Lakefront Drive facing Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake. The expansive well maintained gardens and grounds surrounding the hotel provide the perfect complement to the attractive lake and mountain views. This hotel is very centrally located, …
Distinction Hotel and Villas is situated on Lakefront Drive facing Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake. The expansive well maintained gardens and grounds surrounding the hotel provide the perfect complement to the attractive lake and mountain views. This hotel is very centrally located, with just a short walk to a well-equipped shopping centre (open seven days a week), where you'll find retail outlets, restaurants and cafes. The hotel's 112 rooms are comprised of 4 Deluxe Suites, 80 Hotel Rooms, 13 Villa Suites and 15 Villa Rooms.
Facilities
- Barbeques (BBQ)
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Currency Exchange
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Lounge(s)
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Te Anau, Dunedin
Journey through Southland countryside as you travel to Dunedin, a city known as the "Edinburgh of the South." This afternoon, choose your Freedom of Choice activity.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE SIGHTSEEING
You might like to visit Olveston Historic Home or discover the history behind New Zealand's only castle, Larnach Castle. Alternatively, tour Speight's Brewery and enjoy a tasting.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Dunedin |
| Location | View map |
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Distinction Dunedin
One of Dunedin's oldest heritage buildings has been lovingly transformed into Dunedin's newest hotel. This iconic 121 room property is the ideal base for business or leisure. It is conveniently located in the rejuvenated and vibrant exchange area in the heart of Dunedin city. Each …
One of Dunedin's oldest heritage buildings has been lovingly transformed into Dunedin's newest hotel. This iconic 121 room property is the ideal base for business or leisure. It is conveniently located in the rejuvenated and vibrant exchange area in the heart of Dunedin city. Each elegant studio and suite boasts stylish contemporary design and functionality.
Facilities
- Bar
- Conference Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Laundry facilities
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Tour Desk
Photo gallery
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Dunedin, Aoraki Mt Cook
Drive north and stop to view the large spherical Moeraki Boulders on Koekohe Beach. Continue to World Heritage-listed Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, where you can select your activity of choice.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Visit World Heritage-listed Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to see New Zealand's highest mountain.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE SIGHTSEEING
Perhaps visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or enjoy a visit to the planetarium for a stargazing session with an astronomer. Alternatively, during the summer months, board a MAC boat and get up close to icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook |
| Location | View map |
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The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook
Discover the spectacle and drama of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the splendour and comfort of The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook. The Hermitage, located within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, has a range of accommodation types available. The main hotel complex contains …
Discover the spectacle and drama of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the splendour and comfort of The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook. The Hermitage, located within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, has a range of accommodation types available. The main hotel complex contains 164 rooms, while 32 Motel and 20 Chalet self-contained units are located 200-800m away in the village. From an intrepid journey through glacial valleys to a mouth-watering culinary dining adventure, The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to base your adventure and discover why this region has endeared itself to Kiwi adventure seekers for so long.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Lounge(s)
- Parking
- Restaurant(s)
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Aoraki Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Christchurch
Travel to Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, erected as a tribute to the early European pioneers of the region. Head to Christchurch for a Farewell Dinner tonight.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Rydges Latimer Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
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Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive …
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive banquet facilities with a capacity to cater for up to 360 people, making it the largest hotel function space in Christchurch.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Restaurant
Photo gallery
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Depart Christchurch
Transfer to the airport.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2023: Feb 11, 14, 20, 27; Mar 6, 13, 20; Apr 3, 15, 24; May 1, 8, 27; Sep 11, 18, 25;
Oct 2, 9, 23, 30; Nov 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec 4, 18
2024: Jan 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Feb 5, 12, 19, 26; Mar 5, 11, 18, 25; Apr 1, 8, 15, 29;
May 13, 27; Jun 10
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Shared arrival and departure transfers
- 1 night first-class accommodation in Auckland
- 2 nights first-class accommodation in Rotorua
- 2 nights first-class accommodation in Wellington
- 2 nights first-class accommodation in Christchurch
- 1 night first-class accommodation in Franz Joseph
- 2 nights first-class accommodation in Queenstown
- 1 night first-class accommodation in Te Anau
- 1 night first-class accommodation in Dunedin
- 1 night first-class accommodation in Mt. Cook
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- Tour Director and professional driver
- Travel aboard a spacious, luxurious coach
- Freedom of Choice inclusions in 4 locations
- 12 breakfasts, 8 dinners
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices "from" and seasonal surcharges may apply. All meals indicates meals as per itinerary. All tours are guaranteed departures. Itinerary effective 10 Oct ’17 – 2 Oct ‘18. Tours prior may follow a different itinerary. Supplements for solo travellers are available on request.
27 May 2024
